Pabridges november2017

Pennsylvania

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Connecting Our Communities

Let’s Talk Turkey!

Pennsylvania

BRIDGES Pennsylvania Bridges is published online at

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once a month, 12x a year carla@pabridges.com All Rights Reserved© Pennsylvania Bridges is...

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

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

NOTABLE & QUOTABLE

Let’s Talk Turkey!

I'm writing this on Halloween, and in keeping with the holiday spirit, today in my community college classroom we discussed Shirley Jackson's horror short story "The Lottery". If you're unfamiliar with the story, I urge you to put down this paper, go online and immediately read Jackson's tale.

Originally published in 1948, it's now in the public domain and distributed freely. Without revealing any spoilers, the story involves a long held tradition, a ritual that's lost any meaning it might have once had but continues to be carried out simply because it always has.

It's a good time of year to start talking about traditions, ancient or otherwise, and how they shape our lives. In just a few short weeks, we'll all be settled around the table, surrounded by family and friends, gorging ourselves on turkey and dressing and all the trimmings.

Maybe there'll be a football game on the television, maybe not. Maybe you'll visit multiple households, or perhaps you'll host the Thanksgiving feast at your own home. Maybe you'll have a slice of pumpkin pie, or perhaps you'll opt instead for the pecan.

What matters is not how you celebrate, or with whom, or what you eat.

Considering I'm at least 800 miles away from my nearest blood relative, I usually share the holiday meal with my in laws or with my best friend and her family. What matters most as we gather to break bread together is that we are together, and that we are thankful.

We're thankful for the gift of each other's company, as well as for the bounty laid out before us. We're grateful for the fact that whatever the last year has held -whether it be joy or sorrow or a mixture of both - we've returned once again to celebrate our own familiar holi-

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What’s the Word, Bird?

day traditions.

Still, while I personally am blessed to have family and friends to celebrate with, and will eat Thanksgiving dinner in a warm house, under a dry roof, surrounded by people I care about and who love me, not everyone is so fortunate.

Some lack the resources to enjoy a holiday meal or may not have loved ones nearby. Others will toil to line the coffers of employers who've elected to stay open on Thanksgiving.

With this in mind, I urge you to consider starting a new tradition, one of showing kindness to others. Outside of your own circle, remember there are people who may not have as much to be thankful for you as do. Think of ways you can be a blessing to them, whether it's by opening your home to them to share a meal, or by bringing the spirit of Thanksgiving to them where they are.

There are countless opportunities to volunteer your time during the holidays - not just on Turkey Day - and to show kindness to others. If you’re not sure where your help is badly needed, contact your local church or food bank or senior center, for starters. They can point you in the direction of volunteer opportunities.

I wish you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving and, as always, I hope you enjoy this edition of Pennsylvania Bridges. Like the turkey on your holiday table, it’s stuffed full of goodness!

Until next month, Carla E. Anderton

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

“Some people only ask others to do something. I believe that, why should I wait for someone else? Why don't I take a step and move forward?”

Malala Yousafzai Pakistani Activist 2

Pennsylvania Bridges is distributed free to schools, libraries, colleges and universities, community centers, organizations and better businesses throughout Washington, Fayette, Greene, Westmoreland & Allegheny counties in southwestern Pennsylvania.

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education and lifestyle news, which we share via our social media networks.

If you or your organization would like to obtain copies of Pennsylvania Bridges, email carla@pabridges.com with your address to be added to our distribution list.

For info on advertising, call 724-7690123 or email carla@pabridges.com for a rate sheet and more details.

Pennsylvania Bridges is a free publication bridging communities in Fayette, Greene, Washington, Westmoreland, and Allegheny counties. We feature profiles and articles about individuals and groups contributing to the advancement of the arts, education, healthcare, wellness, technology and other avenues of interest to our readers.

Pennsylvania Bridges is printed once a month and regularly updated online. Each edition of the publication includes fresh and original stories about area personalities and events of note as well as event listings. We welcome your story ideas and event listings.

We adhere to the philosophy that media should be both inspirational and thought provoking. We subscribe to the belief that media should be easy to access and share. We routinely use social media to distribute news and updates and invite our readers to share us with their networks. Our site’s interface is designed with this aim in mind.

We welcome your input. Have questions, comments or angry exhortations? Call us at 724-769-0123.

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

On the cover: California University of Pennsylvania students Marissa Sorenson (Theatre/Corry, PA), Noah Dohanich (Early Childhood Ed/Carmicheals) and Garrett Smyth (Theatre/Washington) star in “Harry’s Hotter at Twilight”, which takes stage beginning Nov. 2. Details on page 14 of this edition. Photo by Kelly Tunney.

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

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

In this issue of Pennsylvania Bridges...

NOVEMBER 2017 EDITION

COMMUNITY & LOCAL BIZ THE ARTS

IN OUR

AREA

Exhibits on display at 707 and 709 Penn Galleries...p. 7 Motown the Musical...p. 21 Artist & Crafter Sale...p. 22

EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY

STAGE & SCREEN

Waynesburg University to host

On stage at Geyer PAC...p. 6 On stage at State Theatre...p. 6 & 17 Indie band “Hear Tonight” releases new EP...p. 7 Jay Owenhouse on stage...p. 10 Tailor of Gloucester...p. 10 The Color Purple on stage...p. 11 On stage at the Palace Theatre in Greensburg....p. 26 Harry’s Hotter at Twilight to take stage at Cal U...p. 14

visit for high school seniors...p. 5 Mock Crime Scene Workshop set for high school students...p. 8 Police Officer training now enrolling...p. 14 First Energy Foundation grant to train tomorrow’s teachers...p. 25

BOOKS & LITERATURE Library hosts author...p. 23 Uniontown Author Series...p. 9 Bentleyville Library...p. 28 California Library...p. 28 Chartiers-Houston Library..p. 28 Citizens Library Events...p. 28 Donora Library Events...p. 29 Frank Sarris Library...p. 30 Fredericktown Library...p. 29 Monessen Library...p. 29 Charleroi Library...p. 29 Peters Township Library...p. 29 Rostraver Library...p. 29

EDITOR’S CHOICE “PIC”

OF THE ISSUE

FAITH & SPIRITUALITY Brownsville Ministerium events...p. 5 Pastor Dawn Hargraves: Life is complicated...p. 8 Conference to Strength and Encourage...p. 14

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE Open Enrollment for Affordable Care Act...p. 23 About Face with Tasha Oskey: Fall Makeup Tips...p. 17 Preparing and delivering a eulogy...p. 19 Mental Health Spotlight with Fred Terling...p. 21

Free Produce to People Distribution...p. 8 California coloring boards helped relieve stress...p. 5 Donora Historical Society News...p. 12 When traveling SWPA, know your belts!...p. 18 Greater Monessen Historical Society News...p. 22 Cal U alumna wins British Fantasy Award for Best Newcomer for her novel...p. 23 This Month in History...p. 24 Book and film chronicle Brownsville native’s creation of new sport...p. 25

SPECIAL EVENTS Center in the Woods November events & daily offerings...p. 8 & 9 Old Fashioned Thanksgiving Service to be held...p. 22 Cal U Theatre season...p. 30

An effort to help brighten the lives of the victims of Hurricane Harvey was recently undertaken, with the project expanding beyond its original goal to involve several southwestern Pennsylvania groups. Details about “Project Gingerbread” are on page 19 of this edition. Pictured here: Margie McKinley with dozens of the Gingerbread Men soon to be shipped to Houston,Texas.

PHOTO

COURTESY OF

MARGIE MCKINLEY

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

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

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WORKS BY XAVIER F. AGUILAR Two varied expressions of the time & place in which the author lives. Like his previous work, “Where Grandma Lived,” “First Snow” is a collection of Mr. Aguilar’s prose & poetry.

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To order either collection (or both), send $12 for “First Snow” and $10 for “Where Grandma Lived” plus 6% PA sales tax to: Xavier F. Aguilar, 1329 Gilmore Avenue, Donora, PA 15033

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For

California Coloring Boards to Express and Relieve Stress

Your Health

Story by Keren Lee Dreyer When the long dilapidated former home of Olympic Fitness, Ltd. was finally razed, only an empty lot was left in its place on the corner of Wood and Third St. in California, PA. But for a while, an artful construct took residence on the location, providing young and old alike a chance to leave their mark...in crayon.

Known as the California Coloring Boards, two large, circular panels were erected for community members to color, with provided crayons, as a fun way to reduce stress or simply to express themselves.

According to Ashley Roth, California Borough Recreation Authority (CBRA) President, the Coloring Boards were inspired in the mind of CBRA board member, Irene Mariscotti, by a sign in an adult coloring book that stated “color your stress away.” “She thought it was something good and positive for the community,” Roth said, “so she went with it.”

Mariscotti coordinated with multiple entities in the community to realize her Coloring Boards idea, including: Lowes, which donated the panels and paint;

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Tony Mariscotti, who donated crayons; California's Streets crew, who made circles from rectangles and built the Coloring Boards, and; California School District's Interact Club (Sue Bitonti, Advisor), members of which created designs on the boards in a warehouse hosted by Tony Mariscotti.

The California Coloring Boards were a hit, with the Recreation Authority receiving “wonderful feedback from the community. “I've seen people of all ages

(participating), kids, college students, adults. People think it's cool and a good idea,” Roth said.

While the boards are now down, Roth said the Recreation Authority has future plans to display them, possibly at Rotary Park. For those who might have missed their chance to leave a colorful mark, there is still hope as Roth said the authority is talking about creating another installment of the California Coloring Boards sometime next year.

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Waynesburg University to host overnight visit for high school seniors

Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Good

Waynesburg University’s Office of Admissions will host an overnight visitation Sunday, Nov. 12, through Monday, Nov. 13. Registration will begin at 5 p.m. in the Stover Campus Center on the Waynesburg University campus. The event is open to high school seniors only.

“The overnight visitation is a great opportunity for students to experience Waynesburg University in a different light,” said Kyle DiGiandomenico, admission counselor. “For some students, engaging with professors, current students and prospective students allows them to feel more comfortable and confident in their [college] choice.”

Upon registration, students will meet their host and check in to their dorm room. That evening, students will participate in a pizza party, group activity and Upper Room, a student-led worship

Mental Clarity, Patchouli, Peace,

Miller Hall.

Waynesburg enrolls approximately 1,400 undergraduate students, with more than 70 academic concentrations for students to study and has most recently been ranked nationally as a top school for value by MONEY Magazine and College Factual. FMI, contact DiGiandomenico at 724-852-3446 or kdigiand@waynesburg.edu.

To register, visit waynesburg.edu/undergraduate/admissions/overnight-visit. service. On Monday, students will have breakfast in the Benedum Dining Hall and attend classes according to their personalized itinerary. Parent tours will also be held on Monday at three times: 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. All tours will depart from the Admissions Office in

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Read these stories and others at:

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Brownsville Ministerium November events

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On Wednesday, Nov. 8, a new grief counseling session will begin and it will “run” for six weeks. The weekly meetings are held on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at the St. Peter's/St. Cecilia's Parish Office (118 Church St., Brownsville). If you need to start sooner, would like more info., or to register, please call St. Peter's/St. Cecilia's office at 724-7857781. These sessions are free and the public is invited.

The BAMA meeting on Tuesday, November 14 will be at 9:15 a.m. at the Fort Burd U.P. Church (200 Thornton Road, Brownsville). The guest speaker will be the chair of the benevolence fund. Rev. Katy Brungraber will be the hostess. After the meeting, there will be a planning session for the upcoming “Blue Christmas” service.

The St. Vincent de Paul sponsored Food Bank will be held on Wednesday, November 15 at the First United Methodist Church (215 Church St., Brownsville). Folks can pick up their food from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. New clients can come at this time to register.

The next date is December 20.

On Tuesday, November 21 the Bentworth Ministerium Community Choir will be singing during the

Bentleyville Community Thanksgiving Service at the First Presbyterian Church (812 Main St., Bentleyville) at 7 p.m.

The public is invited to this free event.

On Wednesday, November 22, Calvin United Presbyterian Church (307 Spring Street) will host a Thanksgiving Eve service at 7 p.m. It will be held in conjunction with the Pleasant View U.P. Church. The public is invited. If you would like to participate, please contact Rev. Aleda Menchyk at 412-855-2537.

The offering will be used to help their foodbank's Christmas voucher fund.

Refreshments will be served afterward and if you would like to bring anything to share, please do so.

Sunday, November 26 - FISH Clan 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Allison's Nazarene Church (416 Vernon St., Allison). This once-a-month gathering of youth ages 11-17 meet at different churches. Youth do not have to belong to any church to join the group. Wanting to be faithful In serving Him, they meet for Bible study, spiritual fellowship, mission, games, movies, snacks, and just plain fun.

Questions? Contact Pleasant View's Rev. Laura Blank at 724-677-2149.

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A N E VENING WITH B RYNN M ARIE November 11 at 7 p.m.

November 16-18 at 7:30 p.m.

November 19 at 2:30 p.m.

Featuring inspiring stories, songs of hope, and special guests.

Benefitting fight 2 fight & the State Theatre Center for the Arts.

Tickets are $15 and are available online or by calling 724-439-1360

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THERE IS HOPE Addiction Recovery Ministry offers a Christ centered 12 Step Program for people struggling with addiction and for those in recovery.

Meetings will be held every Monday 6:30-8:30 at Malden Christian Fellowship at 343 Old National Pike in Brownsville.

Fliers are available for distribution.

FMI: 724-434-4597 or 734-785-3042

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

Indie Band, Hear Tonight, Rocks With New EP “Chasing the Rain” Story by Keren Lee Dreyer Pre-canned music of all varieties is being churned out of L.A. and Nashville pop music factories at a prodigious rate, made only to be splashed in heavy rotation over the air waves in mindlessly digestible three minute chunks.

With this preponderance of disposable musical fluff, it is easy to believe that up-and-coming bands imbued with musical skill, well produced tracks and videos, and lyrics that viscerally connect with listeners are all but extinct.

However, indie rock band, Hear Tonight, proves that music with substance is alive, well, and ready to embarrass the establishment.

Coming straight out of California, PA, Hear Tonight is comprised of lead vocalist and acoustic guitarist, Shane Turner; lead guitar player and background vocalist Stephen Grzenda; rhythm guitar player and background vocalist Jacob Urbanek; batterie and background vocals by Evan Tester; and low end handled by bassist Nick Linder.

Hear Tonight recently celebrated its new EP, “Chasing the Rain,” with a release party at the Hard Rock Cafe in Pittsburgh, PA. - their third release and third party at the Hard Rock. “They were incredible shows, packed with friends, families, and fans,” Turner said via e-mail correspondence. Prior releases worthy of discovering include the EP “Whatever You Want” from 2015, and full CD “Take Your Time” in 2016.

Turner provides insight into the songcraft behind “Chasing the Rain,” saying that some of the songs “were written as fictitious stories from the perspective of

the 'characters' in each song. This was a new style of lyric writing for us, but we had a lot of fun testing it out. I think it worked well for these songs. It's interesting to put yourself in the shoes of someone else, especially when that someone else only exists in your imagination.”

Formed in 2014 after meeting in California University of Pennsylvania's Commercial Music Technology program, Hear Tonight exudes a level of songwriting and musical chemistry typically reserved for road-worn veterans of the music industry.

According to Turner, fans describe the band's music as “beach-y, with fun and intricate guitar riffs,” with most songs “upbeat and easy to vibe and sing to.”

And with radio ready production quality and intricate stylings by all musicians in

the band, Hear Tonight's product is poised to be noticed, though that does not happen in a vacuum. Instead, it takes attention to detail on the business side.

“Since we released our newest EP, we've been behind the scenes working on some online marketing versus playing lots of shows like we used to,” Turner said, continuing “We've been in contact with blogs, magazines, producers, and indie labels to spread awareness of the EP and the rest of our music.

We've also been working on a few video projects that we hope to release before the end of the year.”

As that process progresses, Hear Tonight is “laying low on playing shows for the time being,” Turner said, though fans and fans-to-be can find music, videos, merchandise, biographies, and more at http://heartonightband.com. Or, link the Bandsintown app to facebook and like https://www.facebook.com/HearTonight Band/ for instant show updates.

While “a few ideas have been tossed around” regarding a future, full-length release, Turner said, “We know we want to keep doing this for as long as people keep believing in our words and our music.”

Believers can connect with Hear Tonight on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media through their social media handle @HearTonightBand.

Dual exhibition on display at 707 and 709 Penn Galleries The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces On Looking and White Noise, a dual exhibition by Kristen Letts Kovak in 707 and 709 Penn Galleries. The exhibits will open on Friday, November 17 and remain on view through January 28, 2018.

Patrons can traverse the exhibits with Kovak, as she discusses her inspirations and processes, during an artist talk on January 25 at 7 p.m., and a closing reception will coincide with the Winter Gallery Crawl in the

Cultural District on January 26.

Kristen Letts Kovak is an artist, professor, and curator based in Pittsburgh, PA. For more information, visit .klkovak.com.

707 and 709 Penn Galleries feature exhibits by local and regional artists working in multiple disciplines.

Gallery hours are Wed., Thurs. from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri., Sat. from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sun. from 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. FMI about all gallery exhibitions, visit TrustArts.org.

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Pastor Dawn Hargraves: Simply put, life is complicated

By Pastor Dawn Hargraves

Free Produce to People Food Distribution - Fayette County Thursday, November 9 at 10 a.m. 12 p.m. - Fayette County Fair Fairgrounds, 132 Pechin Rd, Connellsville - The program provides supplemental food items to families each month.Typically families receive about 60 pounds of food each month.

Residents of Fayette County who receive the food are asked to bring a large box, wheeled cart or laundry basket to put their food in. In an effort to speed up the process at the distribution center, we have implemented what is known as a Passcard. In order to receive the Passcard you will need to bring with you a copy of a utility bill with your name and address on the bill.You will also need a photo ID. Registration for the distribution begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 11:30. All food is distributed based on a first come first serve basis.To ensure you receive food please arrive no later than 10 a.m.You are able to attend if you live in another county other than Fayette.

FMI: freshfirechurch.net

We are a Bible Believing Church!

California Baptist Church Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship 10:45

Pastor Todd Rutherford 435 2nd Street, California

724-938-8555 Worship with Us this Sunday!

8

The Creator was artist, architect, engineer, and designer.

One may even say The Creator is composer, master gardener, sculptor, technician, physician, and parent. The more time one considers this, the grander the list of names and skills and talents The Creator holds with which the Creator has used to make or create humanity. And while I wish I was simple, I am at times very complex. Perhaps you are complex too.

That complexity is apparent when I misunderstand my migraine triggers or ignore my migraine triggers.

That complexity is apparent when again stress is high in my life and I take to Twitter or Facebook to vent instead of talking to one person. That complexity is apparent when a smell in passing pulls a memory from the far past into the current present in such an alarming way that I am brought to tears. That complexity is apparent when I get frustrated by a little thing when it is a really big thing I ignore. That complexity is apparent when I want the world to be a better place and lose sight of kindness.

That complexity is apparent when I just

want things to be simple like let us love one another, and we are not there - yet.

That complexity is apparent when I am afraid of someone merely because they are a stranger.

This last complexity, I chose to take on head on. This unwarranted fear [insert whatever negativity] born out of bias, implicit bias is not of The Creator.

I have been made aware of some, not all, but some of my complexities. And my biases, like those complexities I am choosing to get to know, so that they do not derail me in life. Because implicit biases exist in everyone. Implicit biases mar the way we engage with others,

they mar the way our systems and institutions exist. They mar the way of authentic relationships. From implicit biases are born prejudices and other isms without reason or logic.

Implicit Bias training and awareness is available locally or through Harvard University online assessments. It is quite interesting. Maybe you will look online and do the assessment to find out if you are biased toward those aged, African American, or female? Maybe you are biased against those bariatric, Asian American, or weapon owners? Knowing our implicit biases is like being aware of the grime covering a priceless work of art that then allows us to have the grime cleaned off without destroying that art piece The Creator made.

Worship services are held at California United Methodist Church, 227 Third St., every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. On the first Wednesday of each month, the church hosts a community potluck at 6 p.m.

To help support the CUMC’s Weekend Feeding program, which feeds hungry kids, visit gofundme.com/weekendfeed.

Waynesburg U holds mock crime scene workshop The Waynesburg University Forensic Science Club will host the annual fall Mock Crime Scene Workshop Saturday, Nov. 11.

According to Faith Musko, instructor of forensic science, the purpose of the workshop is to give high school students an opportunity to explore the areas of forensic science and criminal justice.

“The main goal of the Mock Crime Scene is to give prospective students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and experience in the areas of forensic science and criminal justice in order to help them make an informed decision about their future major and career choice,” said Musko.

In the morning, students will be rotated through workshops for particular skillsets, including fingerprinting and crime scene processing. Then, later that day, they will experience a crime scene, where they must utilize the skills they

learned to solve the case.

Musko said Mock Crime Scene has the added benefit of introducing high school students to the programs available at Waynesburg University.

“It gives them the chance to meet and work with our current students, which helps build our community and show them what our university and programs have to offer,” she said.

FMI, or to reserve a spot, call the Office of Admissions at 724-852-3346.

Center in the Woods will host an Annual, “All-American” Steak and Chicken Dinner on Saturday, November 4.

“Red,White, and Blue” Vendor Fair 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Star Spangled” Basket Raffle and more - 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Dinner - Complete Steak or Chicken including appetizers, beverage, and dessert - 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Entertainment - Barbershop Quartet, “Sum of Each”, from Lancaster, PA Music and Dancing 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Tickets or FMI call: 724.938.3554, Ext:103 or 412.582.2114. Cost is $30 per person.

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

Center in the Woods November ‘17 Activities The Center in the Woods is a non-profit, senior facility with the goal of hosting fun activities and community events for adults ages 60+. Lunch is served at 12 noon; please call one day in advance to order.

Daily activities include: Mondays: Pianlessons, Watercolor, Choir & Cards; Tuesdays: Lab services, Billiards lessons, Chair dancing, Healthy Steps, Bingo, Dart ball & Cards; Wednesdays: Bible study, Bean bag toss, Oil painting, Basket guild & Beauty shop; Thursdays: Lab services, Chair dancing, Healthy Steps, Jam Session & Bingo; Fridays: Beauty shop, Wii Bowling & Euchre Visit the beauty shop on Wednesdays, & Fridays by appointment.

Bethany offers massage therapy by appointment. Call 724-678-3308.

Jam sessions every Thursday at 1 p.m. feature local talented musicians.

Piano lessons are offered on Mondays.

Call Judy at 724-785-6959 tschedule.

Birthday celebration the last Tuesday of the month at 12 noon.

Bridge on Monday and Thursday, 500 Bid on Wednesday and Euchre on Friday. Games start at 1:15 p.m.

Mon Valley Hospital Lab Services

Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-10 p.m.

Koffee Klatch presented by Edward Jones on the first Friday of the month at 10 a.m.

The Adult Day Center is in need of volunteers.

If you are interested in giving some of your time to assist our participants with activities or just being a friend, please contact Mary Beth at 724-938-3554, Ext. 123.

Volunteers are needed to serve as drivers or runners for the daily Home Delivered Meals program throughout the California, Daisytown, Brownsville and West Brownsville areas.

Volunteers report tthe Center in the Woods by 10:30 am. on assigned days and distribute meals to registered participants. Reimbursement for gas mileage is available. Volunteers are also needed in the kitchen.

We also need volunteers to help with various fundraising activities and administration work. FMI, please contact Maria at 724-938-3554, Ext. 103.

The Center’s hall is available for rental. Call for details. FMI on programs and other activities, call 724-938-3554 Ext. 103. CITW is located at 130 Woodland Court, Brownsville.

FMI: centerinthewoods.org

Uniontown Library Author Series: 11/4 at 4 p.m.

Throughout 2017, the Uniontown Public Library will showcase the talent of novelists, short story writers, and poets. Each month, a writer will visit the Library to share their experiences as published authors. They will offer a short talk on a subject related to their genre, do a reading from their work, and participate in a question and answer session with the audience.

A meet-and-greet and book signing will follow. These events are free and open to the public. Each event will be ticketed, with the free tickets becoming available at the Library's main desk before each author's visit.

Seats are limited, so we encourage you to get your tickets early.

Refreshments will be offered by sponsoring businesses or by the Library. At each event, attendees will have a chance to win a copy of the author's featured

book in a free raffle!

November’s speaker is Jason Jack Miller. Jason knows it’s silly to hold onto the Bohemian ideals of literature, music, and love above all else. But he doesn’t care. So he writes and teaches in Seton Hill University’s Writing Popular Fiction Graduate Program, as well as teaches Earth and Space Science at Uniontown Area High. The fourth book of his award-winning Murder Ballads and Whiskey series titled All Saints is out this month.

A story only works when the writer can convince a reader that it could really happen. But what if that tale involves ghosts, demons, and a character who can never die?

For the Author Series, Jason will show us how the power of fiction can take us where no other medium can.

FMI: uniontownlib.org

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Term life insurance can be a cost-effective way to cover expenses like debt, college costs or even replace a wage earner's income, so your loved ones will not be financially burdened.

WHAT IS TERM LIFE INSURANCE? To help you determine if term life insurance is right for you, consider the following questions.

Do you: Want to assist loved ones with paying funeral costs?

Have mortgage or credit card debt that would burden others?

Worry about leaving unpaid bills, such as medical expenses?

Have household expenses that others would have to pay?

Worry that you have no life insurance whatsoever?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a term life insurance policy from Erie Family Life1 may be the answer for you.When you buy term insurance, you get to choose how long you need it and how much coverage you want.

With ERIE, you can select from 5-, 10-, 15-, 20- or 30-year plans.We offer two term life insurance plans, including an easy-to-purchase option and level term insurance.

QUICK AND SIMPLE LIFE INSURANCE APPLICATION PROCESS We don't want obstacles like a long application or medical exam requirements to get in the way of purchasing life insurance.With ERIE, it's easy to get up to $90,000 worth of term life insurance coverage by answering a few medical questions.You'll get an answer

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It can be an ideal way for part-time employees, entrepreneurs, first-time life insurance buyers, stay-at-home caregivers and others to quickly and easily get this essential coverage.

LEVEL TERM INSURANCE ERIE also offers level term insurance.

It provides life insurance for the period of time that best suits your needs.

You can select from a 10-, 15-, 20- or 30-year plan. Coverage can be purchased starting at age 0, and the face amount of the policy and premium payments remain level for the period of time you select.

You'll also have the opportunity to convert your term policy to a permanent life plan, which provides coverage for your whole life.We guarantee this conversion privilege regardless of health, occupation or hobbies.

As things in life change, the type of life insurance you need can change too.While term life insurance covers you for a specific period of time, whole life is designed to protect you for your entire life.

You may want to consider whole life if you own your home or are thinking about retirement.

This information provided courtesy of Mariscotti Insurance Agency, 324 Third Street, California. Have a question? Need coverage? Call us!

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

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Jay Owenhouse and Family bring magic act to The Palace Theatre stage Jay Owenhouse, a legendary escape artist and one of the most awarded illusionists in history, appears in Greensburg, PA for one night only in “Family Magic!”, an intimate evening of grand illusions. The show has been voted by audiences and critics alike as “One of the Top 10 Live Shows in America.” Jay has amazed millions on TV in “Masters of Illusion” and “Magic on the Edge.” The Salt Lake Tribune calls him “Simply Amazing!” and The Tokyo Times calls the elaborate production “Truly Magic, a Must See!” Jay welcomes you into his mysterious world of wonder and the impossible.

You will experience a night of mesmerizing illusions with the most amazing magic in the world, Bengal tigers up close, dangerous escapes, and inspiring storytelling. Seeing Owenhouse and his family live is an evening that will leave you breathless with a feeling of childhood wonder that “Anything is possi-

ble!”

Owenhouse spent 2008 touring China and Japan, where Jay's show received the “Best Touring Family Show in Asia” award. Now back in the U.S., he is

working on his new TV series and receiving critical acclaim for his live show “Family Magic!”

Caught by the magic bug at four years old, Owenhouse first performed as a freshman in high school. Since then, in the spirit of “giving it away to keep it,” he's invented magic effects and designed illusions not only for his show, but also for other magicians of world renown.

Come see why Hollywood entertainment journalist Mark Ebner calls The Magic of Jay Owenhouse, “[With apologies to PT Barnum] the greatest touring family show on earth.”

The Magic of Jay Owenhouse will take the stage on Friday, November 10 at 7:30 p.m. at The Palace Theatre.

Tickets can be purchased by contacting The Palace Theatre Box Office at 724836-8000 or visiting thepalacetheatre.org. The theatre is located at 21 W. Otterman Street, Greensburg.

“The Tailor of Gloucester” takes the stage 11/24 The lighthearted, musical rendition of Beatrix Potter's Christmas “The Tailor of Gloucester” arrives this holiday season on Friday, November 24 at 11 AM at The Palace Theatre, Greensburg PA. In this family-friendly holiday production of The Tailor of Gloucester, Virginia Rep On Tour brings the world of Beatrix Potter to life. When a poppycock mayor orders a cherry-colored coat for his Christmas wedding, the poor Tailor of Gloucester works his fingers to the bone. All goes well until the tailor realizes he lacks the piece of twisted silk needed to sew on the final button. But it is Christmas Eve, that one blessed night when animals are granted the gift of speech. Simpkin the cat and the house mice become steadfast friends and work together to complete a coat that leaves the bedazzled Mayor-and Simpkin and his mice- speechless for a miraculously happy ending on Christmas Day. Virginia Rep's Children's Theatre is a nonprofit, professional theatre in Richmond, Virginia. Since 1975 they've created exciting and innovative theatrical productions for young audiences.

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Each year they stage six shows at their intimate Children's Theatre in Richmond, and tour national-caliber, educational plays to schools and public venues in Virginia and across the country.

Tickets for this beloved classic are available for $8 and $11 and can be purchased by contacting The Palace Theatre Box Office at 724-836-8000 or visiting thepalacetheatre.org. The theatre is located at 21 W. Otterman Street, Greensburg.

November 11 & 18 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Christmas Flea Market Will be held at St. Mary's Anglican Church, in Charleroi Our annual Christmas Flea Market will be held two days this year at St. Mary's church hall at 509 Sixth Street in Charleroi.

Come shop for your holiday decorations, artificial trees, wreaths, toys and jewelry. Baked goods and soups are also available.The kitchen will be open to serve or provide take-out luncheon items and beverages.

FMI: Call 724-483-4072

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

“The Color Purple” to take stage at Benedum Center The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces the Tony Award®-winning revival The Color Purple is coming to the Benedum Center, 237 7th Street, Pittsburgh PA 15222, as part of the North American tour. The tour began October 7th in Schenectady, New York and will have its official opening on October 17 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Performances at the Benedum begin Tuesday, November 14th and continue through Sunday, November 19th. This touring production is part of the 201718 PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh series, presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and Broadway Across America.

Cast members from the 2016 Broadway revival leading the current company include Adrianna Hicks (Aladdin, Sister Act - Germany) as Celie, Carla R. Stewart (Ghost National Tour, Rent - Regional) as Shug Avery and Carrie Compere (Holler If You Hear Me, Shrek the Musical National Tour) as Sofia.

They will be joined by Gavin Gregory (The Color Purple - Revival, The Gershwins' Porgy & Bess) as Mister, N'Jameh Camara (X: Or, Betty Shabazz v. The Nation) as Nettie, J. Daughtry (The Color Purple - Revival, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical) as Harpo, along with Darnell Abraham, Amar Atkins, Kyle E. Baird, Angela Birchett, Jared Dixon, Erica Durham, Bianca Horn, Gabrielle Reid, C.E. Smith, Clyde Voce, Nyla Watson, J.D. Webster, Brit West, Nikisha Williams and Michael Wordly.

Based on the Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and the Warner Bros. / Amblin Entertainment motion

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picture, The Color Purple is adapted for the stage by the Tony Award® and Pulitzer Prize-winning Marsha Norman, with music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray.

Tony Award®-winning director and scenic designer John Doyle (Sweeney Todd, Company) recreates his awardwinning work for the national tour, alongside costumes by Ann HouldWard, lighting by Jane Cox, sound by Dan Moses Schreier and wig & hair design by Charles G. LaPointe.

Tickets for The Color Purple at the Benedum Center currently start at $30* and are available at these Pittsburgh Cultural Trust official ticket sources: www.TrustArts.org, by calling 412-4564800 or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue.

Performances are Tuesday through

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In Pittsburgh, the following special event will take place alongside the show:Wednesday, November 15: Know the Show Before You Go, hosted by Christopher Rawson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and KDKA, is a free preshow talk for all PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh patrons. The talk begins one hour before show time at the Trust Arts Education Center, 805-807 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For more information and to register, visit: www.TrustArts.org/KnowTheShow.

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Donora Historical Society/Smog Museum News As part of the Society of Environmental Journalist's (SEJ) 27th Annual Conference that was hosted by the University of Pittsburgh/Swanson School of Engineering from October 4th-8th, bus fieldtrips were dispersed all over Western Pennsylvania on Thursday, October 4th, and one of the fieldtrips made a stop at the Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum to learn more about the impact of the 1948 Smog.

Aside from our SEJ fieldtrip and two Cement City Home and Walking Tours (with visitors as far as Kent, OH and Morgantown, WV), we also hosted college students from California University of PA's Digital Storytelling class, Point Park University's Environmental Journalism film class, Carnegie Mellon's Post Natural History class, and the University of Pittsburgh journalism class. We also had a private Cement City Tour for the Laurel Highlands Antique Auto Club, presented the 1948 Smog at the Residence of the Hilltop, had a Stan Musial tour for visitors from Philadelphia, PA, and a Donora tour for visitors from Raleigh, NC. If you're looking for a very unique Christmas gift this year, keep in mind that among the many items that the Donora Historical Society has in its collection are over 115 reels of football and basketball game film of high school teams from all over the Mon Valley and Western Pennsylvania from 1963 to 1979. They are original 16mm films that are still in the process of being converted to DVD, but after launching this project over two years ago, many games have already been converted. Some games even show significant footage of the band, majorettes and color guards.

Please give enough lead time to fill orders in time for Christmas.

If you have any interest or have questions on exactly which games we have, please stop into the Smog Museum, or see the full list of games on our website under the "Game Films" tab.

One of the many interesting stories from the early days of Donora is the founding of the Redwood restaurant by Leon "Lee" Rongaus on Castner Avenue. Starting as the Rongaus grocery store in 1916 by Lee's parents: Simplicio and Maria Roncace (Rongaus), it morphed into a neighborhood tavern - Rongaus Hilltop Restaurant in 1932. After Lee returned from WWII, he took over the restaurant

making it into the legendary Redwood.

The entrance to the restaurant greeted guest with the words - "A Book of Verse, A Loaf of Bread, A Jug of Wine and Thou" and white linen tablecloths, a single rose and Lee's very own handetched wine glasses in Italian love verses welcomed them to their tables.

Celebrities such as Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward were among the many who dined there.

If you have Redwood stories, menus, advertising items, or any other memorabilia that you would like to donate to the Donora Historical Society to better tell the Rongaus and Redwood story, it would be greatly appreciated. If you have old photos that you would like to share, but do not wish to donate, please keep in mind we can scan them and give them back.

Our first ever Eldora Park Walking Tour that was scheduled on Saturday, March 26, 2017 proved to be so successful that we have a waiting list already and are continuing to accept RSVPs for our next tour on Saturday, March 24th and/or March 31st at noon in 2018.

The tour will start at the Smog Museum in Donora with a photo and newspaper article presentation on Eldora Park. See our newly acquired century-old Eldora Park 48"x10" panoramic photo. We will then drive the three miles to conduct the walking tour portion in the Eldora section of Carroll Township on the historic Wickerham farm. The cost is $10 per person and you should allow two hours for the presentation and walking tour. If you have any questions about the tour itself or would like to be added to a signup list, please contact the historical society.

All phone messages and emails will be returned and you will be notified on the status of the tour date.

If you have questions about the subjects mentioned above, the historical society, museum, presentations or possibly volunteering, stop by on Saturdays or by special appointment (with at least a week's notice), email us at DonoraHistoricalSociety@gmail.com, call us at 724-823-0364 and leave a message, visit us online at DonoraHistoricalSociety.org, or Like us on Facebook.

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

Conference to Strengthen and Encourage Desiring to bring strength and encouragement to both men and women in these times of such uncertainty, California Full Gospel Church will host the “Strengthened to Stand” Conference, at the United Christian Church at 499 E. Malden Drive in Coal Center, on Sat., Nov. 11. The featured speaker will be international conference speaker Sandra Micelotti from New Hampshire. Sessions will be at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., along with a catered lunch. The cost is $15.

Reservations are necessary, the deadline is Nov. 6.

Reservations may be sent to: Full Gospel Church, 507 Green Street, California PA 15419. Anyone with questions call 724-938-7980. A love offering will be taken.

Police Officers' Training Academy now enrolling Westmoreland County Community College is accepting applications through November 30 for the part-time Municipal Police Officers' Training Academy.

The academy will begin January 13, 2018 and will run through November 2018. Classes will meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights from 5:30-9:30 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and one or more Sunday's a month at the Youngwood Campus.

The 920-hour academy trains students for police officer positions in Pennsylvania cities, boroughs and townships. Courses include: criminal law, police procedures, firearms, emergency vehicle operation, criminal investigations, laws of arrest, physical fitness and defensive tactics just to name a few.

Successful completion of the academy makes the graduate eligible to receive 15 college credits upon enrolling in the Westmoreland Criminal Justice associate degree program.

The academy is certified by the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission.

In its 39th year, the Westmoreland Police Academy tuition is $5,500, which covers the educational costs associated with the program with the exception of uniforms and footwear. The academy has a cadre of instructors both male and female with over 300 plus years of experience and expertise as chiefs of police, patrol officers, state troopers, K9 officers, narcotics agents, medics, investigators, special agents, several advanced skills firearms instructors as

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well as a magistrate judge and an attorney.

FMI and application materials, visit westmoreland.edu/policeacademy, or call 724-925-4298 or 724-925-4112.

Westmoreland County Community College is accepting applications for the ACT-165 Waiver Program through November 30.

Westmoreland is offering the ACT-165 Waiver Program in conjunction with the part-time police academy which is scheduled to start January 13, 2018 and run through November 2018. Approved Federal Law Enforcement Officers (FLEOs) and Military Police (MPs) attend class with the part-time police academy cadets, but only on the days the required ACT-165 curriculum is being presented.

The program is approximately 340 hours of training. Courses include: criminal law, police procedures, criminal investigations and principles of arrest just to name a few. Municipal Police Officer Training and Education Commission (MPOETC) may determine that additional training is required in HAZMAT, EVOC, Firearms, First Aid and CPR. Upon successful completion of the course, participants can take the state certification exam to become municipal police officers in the state of PA. In its 39th year, the cost for participants in the ACT-165 Waiver Program is $1,950, which covers everything except uniforms and footwear.

For more information, contact Franklin R. Newill at 724-925-4298.

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES-pabridges.com

“Harry’s Hotter at Twilight” on stage at Cal U

California University of Pennsylvania's Department of Music and Theatre presents “Harry's Hotter at Twilight,” a crazy mash-up parody of the Harry Potter and Twilight book and movie franchises,” at 7 p.m. Nov. 2-3, and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 4.

The event is open to the public and will be performed in the Gerald and Carolyn Blaney Theatre in Steele Hall.

Ticket price is $12 for adults, seniors and children. Cal U students with valid

CalCards pay 50 cents, plus a $5 deposit that is refunded at the show.

For ticket information, or to charge tickets by phone, call the Steele Hall Box Office at 724-938-5943.

First-year students make up the cast of the comedy, which features invisible rabbits, armies of babies, murderous lunatics, evil gourmets and much more.

Hilarity ensues as everyone's favorite wizards, vampires, and werewolves battle to save the gloomy town of Spork and, indeed, the world - from certain destruction at the hands of the nefarious Fine Diner and the bloodthirsty Euphoria.

Photo: Marissa Sorenson, Noah Dohanich, Garrett Smyth, Mecca Moore (Theatre/Philadelphia), Jeromy Mackey (Theatre/Waynesburg) and Holly Grainger (Theatre/Waynesburg).

ELECTION DAY FOOD & BAKE SALE Tuesday, Nov. 7 at United Christian Church Join us for an Election Day Food & Bake Sale at United Christian Church, 499 E. Malden Drive, Coal Center.

Save the Date! Our annual Drive Thru Nativity will be held on December 9-10 from 6-8 p.m. Plan to join us for this yearly tradition.

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

Join us in Faith, Fellowship & Fun

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

UCCDOC.ORG

FACEBOOK.COM/UCCDOC

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

Cal U sophomore’s original play - “Bobby’s Ballet Lesson” - staged this fall Story by Keren Lee Dreyer Writers of many a stripe say they draw inspiration from the people and events that surround their lives, which are usually the same everyday occurrences most other people witness or experience.

The difference is, these creative artists turn the ordinary into words, plays, or movies that touch hearts and perhaps leave life changing impressions through their writing. California University of Pennsylvania theatre major, sophomore, and budding playwright, Alyssa Freeman, is one of those writers.

Drawing from her summer camp work experience with special needs children, and a playwriting class at California University (Cal-U), Freeman said her play, “Bobby's Ballet Lesson,” was one of three plays that were due during the fall of 2016's playwriting semester; but this is the one that hit the stage.

The story centers around main characters Bobby, who is autistic and nonverbal, and Leah, whose mother teaches at a dance studio. Bobby and Leah become friends and dance partners at eight years of age when Bobby's mother signs him up for ballet classes, taught by Leah's mother. The play takes them through two more stages of their lives. How Bobby reaches a personal landmark through Leah's kind friendship is revealed in the final scene of the act.

“I mostly wrote it from my personal experiences. I took dance classes, and worked at a summer camp with special needs kids, including nonverbal, which is where I got the idea for Bobby...I wanted to write a play about a nonverbal child speaking for the first time,” Freeman said, continuing “I knew this

was something that could touch a lot of people. It wasn't a hard process - it didn't take me long to write at all.”

A one act play, “Bobby's Ballet Lesson” was performed during California University's “Evening of Creativity” at the Gerald and Carolyn Blaney Theatre in Steele Hall. Director and Cal-U theatre alumna, Sarah Martik, met Freeman through theatre department co-chair, Michelle Pagen, on audition night. “We shook hands and watched everyone audition. We had a cast of four and (subsequently) did a staged reading,” Martik recalled.

In a future production, Freeman said there are two child actors selected for the roles of Bobby and Leah, with college students and adults rounding out each character's older years, along with a supporting adult cast.

Martik, whose theatre work includes experience in Boston and Pittsburgh, “jumped at the chance” to bring

Freeman's play to life while making her post-graduation directorial debut in the process. She describes the play as a “moving story of how some kindness and compassion can shape your life.”

Directing a live stage show has its twists, but also its rewards, as Martik recounts “It was a joy to see Alyssa's reaction to how the play developed her creation, and to see the characters come to life was an incredible experience for me, beyond the gratification of putting the play on stage.”

Freeman has plans to meet with Pagen and Martik to discuss “where to go from here” though she is pleased with how the show resonated with its initial audience: “I'm just really excited to see where this goes, and it's incredible to see how many people have been touched by the story.” And with more plays in the writing stage, Freeman is poised to touch many more audiences with her work.

GCT Extends Search For Directors through November 15 Greensburg Civic Theatre is extending its search for Director Positions for winter/spring 2018 adult and Greasepaint Players family productions and will accept applications through November 15. Candidates should be available to meet briefly in person or via video call with GCT’s Board of Directors on Monday, November 20 between 7-8:30

pm.

Applications will be accepted to direct main stage productions of “No Sex Please, We’re British” to be staged February 9-11, and “Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery” to be staged May 4-6, 2018.

Applications will be accepted to direct Greasepaint Players’ “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” to be staged March

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents The Heart and Soul Queen of New Orleans on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at the Byham Theater, 101 6th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, as a part of The Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series.This first ever tour will treat audiences to a special evening filled with musical collaborations and cultural traditions featuring Grammy Award-winning R&B Soul songstress, Irma Thomas (pictured above), six-time Grammy Award-winning Gospel & Blues group,The Blind Boys of Alabama, and French Quarter reverends,The Preservation Hall Legacy Quintet (pictured below).

Tickets start at $30. Limited availability VIP Meet & Greet Tickets are $60, including premium seat locations and a post-show meet & greet with the artists.Tickets are available from the following official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: online at www.TrustArts.org, by calling 412-456-6666, or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

Group discounts for 10 + tickets are available at www.TrustArts.org or by calling 412-471-6930.

16-17, 2018.

Kindly submit your theater resume including directorial references by November 15 to info@gctheatre.org or by mail to Greensburg Civic Theatre located at 951 Old Salem Road, Greensburg PA 15601.

Please visit gctheatre.org for more information.

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

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Abraham.In.Motion at August Wilson Center

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Order Online: nudgeshoppe.com Trash Test Dummies open EQT Children’s series The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is pleased to announce the award-winning Australian acrobatic troupe, Trash Test Dummies, will open the 2017–2018 Citizens Bank Children’s Theater Series, with performances taking place at six locations throughout the area from November 12-19, 2017.

Trash Test Dummies troupe, Jamie Bretman, Jack Coleman and Simon Wright, are highly skilled circus performers making their Pittsburgh area premier and will showcase a stunning array of the jaw dropping acrobatics, juggling, and stunt work to amaze audiences of all ages. These dexterous dummies will take the audience on a journey into their playful imagination, inviting them to take a fresh look at the humble household wheelie bin. The group was formed in 2014 and since then has performed to rave reviews and sell out shows. Trash Test’s award- winning side splitting slapstick comedy routine takes the household wheelie bin to new heights, and delivers a dump truck full of hilarity!

Performance locations include: City: Byham Theater, Sunday, November 12 at 2:00 p.m.; East: Greensburg-Salem High School, Wednesday, November 15 at 7:00 p.m.; North: Marshall Middle

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School, Thursday, November 16 at 5:30 & 7:30 p.m.; West: Cornell High School, Friday, November 17 at 7:00 p.m.; South: Mt. Lebanon High School, Saturday November 18 at 11 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.; Butler: Seneca Valley Senior High School, Sunday, November 19 at 2:00 p.m.

Individual tickets (General admission: $12 at the door; $10.50 in advance) can be ordered at these official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: online at TrustArts.org/kids, by calling 412-4566666, or in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Pittsburgh-Native and MacArthur Fellow, Kyle Abraham and Abraham.In.Motion Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11, 2017.

Both performances will start at 8:00 p.m. at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Kyle Abraham, Artistic Director of Abraham.In.Motion, will present a trio of work that has premiered over the past six years—The Quiet Dance, Absent Matter, and The Gettin’. This presentation is a part of the Pittsburgh Dance Council’s 2017–18 season.

Each work sets out to complement the historical range and emotional power rooted in the diasporic journeys of jazz music within American Life.

Collectively, they draw inspiration from this musical legacy to focus on racial injustice.

Born into hip-hop culture in the late ‘70s and raised with an artistic upbringing including classical cello, piano, and the visual arts, Kyle Abraham’s work approaches movement as a way to deeply delve into personal identity.

The Quiet Dance (2011) is a quintet set to Bill Evans’ rendition of the Bernstein classic, Some Other Time.

The Gettin’ (2014), is taut with electric tension and features music by Grammy Award-winning jazz artist Robert Glasper and his trio, who reimagined Max Roach’s We Insist! Freedom Now Suite. The production will showcase projections of charged images from

apartheid-era South Africa to the death of Eric Garner.

Absent Matter (2015), created in collaboration with Kris Bowers, Otis Brown III and filmmaker Naima Ramos Chapman, looks at race through the lens of those who feel unacknowledged or without value.

The original jazz composition is combined with samples from Common, Kanye West, and Kendrick Lamar.

Artistic Director Kyle Abraham comments on bringing these works to Pittsburgh, “It’s an honor and a thrill to return home, and for the Pittsburgh community to see what we’ve been up to since 2013—giving a glimpse into several of the works we’ve created and performed since then. So much has changed in this country. Even more has changed in my personal life. This program is actually the last A.I.M program whose premiere my mother was able to attend. It’s all the more sentimental for its final tour to be in the city where I was born, and where both of my parents are buried.”

Tickets start at $10 and are available from the following official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: online at www.TrustArts.org/dance, by calling 412-456-6666, or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh. Group discounts for 10 + tickets are available at TrustArts.org or by calling 412-471-6930.

Photo by Ian Douglass

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

State Theatre

About Face with Tasha: Fall Makeup Tips Written by Tasha Oskey We are now in the thick of the fall season and as it is with skincare, it's also a great time to change up your makeup routine and try new things.

In previous columns, I've focused mainly on skincare.

In this column, it's going to be all about makeup and some of the trends for the fall season.

When you are getting ready to apply makeup, it's important to think of your face as a blank canvas. Make sure you've washed your face and applied moisturizer preferably with sunscreen. This will make for a nicer makeup application because there's nothing worse than your makeup catching on dry patches of skin.

Next, I like to use a primer. Primers help your makeup stay on longer and your base or foundation goes on smoother. There are many types of primers that diffuse concerns such as oily skin, enlarged pores, hydration, dull skin, and even aging. If you are someone who likes to wear foundation, I think wearing a primer is a must.

Choosing a foundation can be complicated because there are so many different kinds. Like a primer, it's best to get a foundation that is best for your skin type. I recommend going to a makeup counter or store and having your foundation matched to your skin tone.

Foundations also come in different coverages such as sheer, moderate, or full.

The finish can be dewy or matte. A matte finish is more popular in fall and winter but be careful with that on aging skin because it can settle into fine lines and wrinkles. For more mature skin, I recommend using a foundation with a dewy or soft focus finish. If you don't

want to use a foundation there are other options such as tinted moisturizers, bb creams, and cc creams. If you only want minimal coverage than just go over problem areas with a concealer.

Concealers can be used alone or in conjunction with your foundation for extra coverage on dark under eye circles or breakouts. They can also be used for contouring. As a rule of thumb, when choosing the concealer that is best for you pick one that is two shades lighter than your skin tone.

After you've applied your primer, foundation, and or concealer this would be the time for powder, blush, and bronzer. If you have oily skin, using powder is a good idea. It also minimizes the look of enlarged pores. However, as you age your skin tends to lose oil and be more on the dry side so you might want to skip powder or use it sparingly.

As for blush, berry colored cheeks are really big this season. Blush comes in powder and cream form. Cream blush is nice because it's easy to blend. Using a bronzer is a good way to extend your summer glow and for contouring pur-

poses but blush can be enough to give you that rosy cheek flush.

For the rest of the face, such as the eyes and lips, this is where you can experiment and try some different looks. Some major trends this season are metallic and burgundy eyeshadows. Burgundy and copper colors can really make your eyes pop. Wearing black eyeliner is always on trend but it doesn't have to be perfect. In fact, a bolder thicker line is where it's at this fall. When in doubt, a smoky eye is always nice to do and the messier it looks the better. In my opinion, what really completes an eye look is mascara. Put on a couple coats on the top and bottom lashes. If your in a rush, just putting mascara on really opens up the eyes and gives you that awake look. As for lips, I've been seeing really dark bold colored lips in berry and burgundy. When your wearing a dark bold lip you might want to wear very little eyeshadow or none at all so your lips really stand out and vice versa for a heavier eye and a nude lip.

When it comes to makeup, I don't believe in following the rules. Applying makeup should be fun and fall is the perfect time to try something new. One of the great things about it is you can wash it off right away if you don't like it. If applying makeup has confounded you in the past, you've probably given it too much thought. Remember it doesn't have to look perfect so try one of these fall trends and go out and rock it!

About Face with Tasha is a regular column devoted to all things pertaining to beauty and skincare. Tasha Oskey is a Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Specialist at Massage Envy in uptown Mt. Lebanon. Have a question? Email

FIND YOUR INNER “WOO HOO”! ZUMBA WITH LYNNE Are you ready to shed that unwanted winter weight? Ready to look and feel your best in your swimsuit? “Woo Hoo” your way to a New You with certified Zumba and fitness instructor Lynne Hayes Langley.

Classes meet at the California Young Men’s Club on Mondays & Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays,Tuesdays & Fridays at 6 p.m.

CALIFORNIA YOUNG MEN’S CLUB, 1140 EDWARDS STREET, CALIFORNIA PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - Arts, Entertainment, Education & Lifestyle - pabridges.com

CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Rave On! The Buddy Holly Experience November 17 at 8 p.m.

Tickets $38, $34 & $25 This is your chance to see why Buddy Holly’s straightforward take on Rock and Roll inspired performers like John Lennon, Mick Jagger, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen, and more. While his was a flame that burned out too soon, in only a few short years Buddy Holly changed the world of music.

Enjoy a high-energy, hit-filled evening of great music and fun!

Classic Film Series Nov. 3 at 2 & 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 at 2 & 7 p.m.

November’s film is The Green Berets December’s film is White Christmas Adults $5, Students, senior citizens & children $3

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

When Traveling southwestern Pennsylvania, Know Your Belts Story by Fred Terling If you've travelled Southwestern Pennsylvania with any frequency, you've had to have seen the colored belt signs.

Around here, blue and orange are prominent, but what the heck do they mean? It was time for me to dawn my deer stalker cap and church warden pipe and take to the internet.

Those signs are part of the Allegheny Belt System. The system color codes miscellaneous county roads to form a system of routes around the city of Pittsburgh. Any readers who have spent any time in and around the Washington D.C. area are familiar with the "beltway." This is very similar, with a couple of wrinkles.

Originally developed in the late 1940's

by Joseph White, an engineer with the Allegheny County Department of Public Works. The Belt system's goal was to offer residents alternate traffic patterns in and out of the Golden Triangle to alleviate traffic. It was the first of its kind and predates President Eisenhower's Interstate Highway

System. By early 1952, all signs were finalized and posted along the routes.

Most major American cities use number-coded limited access roads to form belt systems. Unlike those, the Allegheny System is not intended as high-speed routes, but rather navigational thoroughfares. The concept was to assist visitors to the area that may be unfamiliar with navigating the county.

The roads don't change their names, but rather are folded into colored routes.

The original five, from the outermost part of the county to the inner are: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green and Blue. There is a sixth belt, Purple, that was added later to reflect downtown Pittsburgh. If you ever find yourself lost, here are the specific routes by colored belt.

Red is the outermost loop that runs from PA 65 in Leetsdale to 7th Avenue in Tarentum. It is 33.5 miles long.

Orange in the next loop and the longest.

It runs along PA 88 in Library to PA 51 in Elizabeth. It is 91.7 miles. The next two, Yellow and Blue form to make a complete loop around the city of Pittsburgh. The yellow, 77.6 miles,

F A L L H VA C T I P S Is your heating system ready for winter?

It’s that time to turn on your furnace and get ready for the cold weather! Here are some maintenance tips from your friends at Petrucci’s: 1. Check air filters monthly and replace if needed.

2. Clean air return grilles with a house hold vacuum cleaner.

3. Change batteries in your digital thermostat

annually. (People forget that most digital thermostats have batteries in them, getting into a good habit of changing the batteries can help you eliminate a no heat situation).

4. Seal air leaks around the house (doors, windows, pipes, attic hatches) with caulking and weather stripping material to keep temperatures in

the home controlled.

5. Make sure all registers and grilles are not covered up.

6. Pour bleach into your condensate pump and then let it pump out, next pour ½ cup in and let pump out on its own.

7. If you have any concerns or it seems that something is not working correctly don’t hesitate to give us a call!

stretches from South Park, crossing most of the PA routes, US 19, US 22 and briefly follows I-79 from Neville Island to Glenfield. This makes the Yellow Belt the only belt to be signed on an Interstate Highway. It's also the only belt that crosses all four Allegheny County Rivers. Next is Green. It forms a half circle around the city from PA 65 in Emsworth to PA 148 in McKeesport. It is 38.6 miles. Blue is the innermost belt making a complete 38.1 mile circle around the city of Pittsburgh and as mentioned, completes the loop of the yellow belt. Finally, the Purple. It runs 2.03 miles through downtown Pittsburgh and is the epicenter of the colored belt system. It does not cross any numbered routes. It travels in a loop on four twoway streets: Stanwix Street, Fort Duquesne Boulevard/11th Street, Grant Street and Boulevard of the Allies.

Hopefully with this information at your fingertips, those dead end google maps and strange GPS directions won't have you lost anymore.

BURGERS

College students considering a transfer to California University of Pennsylvania get one-stop assistance when they visit the Cal U campus on two upcoming Destination Days — Wed., Nov. 15, 2017, and Thurs, Jan. 4, 2018. All services are free, and the university will waive the $25 application fee for students who apply on Destination Days.

Students considering a transfer are invited to visit Dixon Hall, Room 312, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Evening hours are available by appointment only; phone appointments also are available.

Students may visit calu.edu/destination to register online for a particular day and time — or just walk in to receive these services: Free transcript evaluation.

Application fee waiver: Complete Cal U’s admission application on the day you attend and the University will waive the application fee.

Information and support Orientation scheduling FMI: calu.edu

WINGS & FRIES

SPUDS 227 Wood Street California, PA

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“Project Gingerbread” brings hope to flood victims in Houston, Texas Story by Margie McKinley Who would have ever thought that Hurricane Harvey was going to be the first of so many disasters and heartbreaking events for our country? I sure didn't. I watched the news and weather reports in August, warning Texas of untold damage that was about to happen. I have relatives and friends in Texas. When they zeroed in on Houston Texas I worried about my high school (Winchester-Thurston School, Pittsburgh) friend Susan Whitacre.

I contacted her and she reassured me all was going to be fine for her.

Afterwards, Susan and her loved ones were some of the fortunate ones, unlike so many of her neighbors. She and Tony devoted much of their time to feeding friends and strangers. I felt at a loss of how I could help.

The Gingerbread Project came about due to a misunderstood Facebook post. I had shared a stranger's photo of 84 crocheted teddy bears that had been made for a baby shower. My friends thought I had made them for children in Houston.

Susan posted that if I got them to her she could distribute them through her church. Time to message Susan…I did not make them but I have made gingerbread dolls of all sizes for a variety of purposes. I would be willing to make them for her neighbors. Thus, the project began.

We decided that 100 dolls would be good for the 500 families that St. Peter's Methodist Church of Houston Texas had set up a ministry to serve. That number grew to 150.

I started to gather my supplies and made my pattern. .I bought out the supplies of ginger colored heavy fleece in Belle Vernon, Washington and Monroeville. I also depleted the supply of heart shaped buttons.

I took over the dining room table and began to cut out the panels. The plan was for me to hand sew them all…that soon changed. My friend Caroline Fecek of Brownsville was to the first to volunteer her services. She machine sewed the blanket stitch on all of them.

Next, my 93 year old neighbor, Doris Dishong saw what I was doing and soon

took on the job of sewing a heart button on the front of each doll.

Stuffing was done by Doris, Sandy Rupnik and me. Additional cutting assistance came from our friend AnnMarie Paci .

While shopping for supplies at WalMart, I ran into a childhood friend and her husband. I shared with Cindy St Clair Rager what I was doing. She smiled and the next thing that I knew, I had two volunteers to make the skirts for the girl dolls.

The project grew as more friends joined in to help. Next, I designed a card to go with each gingerbread doll.

The First Presbyterian Church of California, PA accepted the task of writing 150 notes. Church member Sam Savochka took on the position of 'card coordinator'. I soon got a phone call from Sam telling me that more people wanted to write a note of encouragement to people in Houston Texas. I had 300 more cards printed and the project

Read this story & others at:

pabridges.com Continuously updated with the arts, education, entertainment & lifestyle news you deserve

spread farther. What a blessing!

Cards have been written by members of the First Presbyterian Church, California, PA, California Area High School Social Studies Class, Mrs. Kristy Keefer's 4th grade class at California (pictured), Center in the Woods Senior Center participants, Center in the Woods Head Start in California, Washington County Commissioners, Many employees throughout the Washington County Courthouse, and others.

I have read some of the messages.

They are heartwarming.

I talked with Susan in Houston this week to tell her that we were working hard to get everything shipped next week and I was sorry for the delay.

Her response was “The timing is God's timing - perfect. People are coming out of the shock and having to face their new realities. This hug from afar will mean even more now. It will renew their faith that indeed they have not been forgotten."

Support for this project was provided

by Linda Kanalis, Sandy Rupnik, Doris Dishong, Caroline Fecek, and my Mom - Marge McKinley.

So what started as a misunderstood Facebook post by me has turned into a mission of love by 100s of Pennsylvanians to 100s of Texans.

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

Preparing & Delivering a Eulogy at a Funeral A eulogy is a celebration of a person's life. It should highlight your best memories of the deceased and stimulate positive memories in other mourners. It should contain praise for the person and/or some aspect of the person's life and acknowledge the lessons you have learned from them. A eulogy should express your honest feelings of gratitude to have known the person and to have been part of their life.

Make an effort to find out if others are also preparing eulogies so that these can be coordinated to avoid duplication and instead cover all aspects of the person's life - their family, work, hobbies, etc.

Ask others, especially people unable to be at the service, for their memories/stories which you might use.

Although a eulogy should contain uplifting memories and make reference to significant events, you should not attempt to chronicle the person's entire life; share only a slice that you think is most memorable. Find a theme or common thread running through your experience with the person and then select two or three related stories to base your eulogy upon. Humor can be used in a eulogy and will relax yourself and the audience but care should be taken to ensure it is appropriate. Above all costs, keep your eulogy positive and to the point (no more than five to eight minutes).

When delivering a eulogy, you may lose control and begin to openly weep at any time. However, the two places that are of greatest concern are the opening and closing. One thing you can do is to design the eulogy so that emotionally loaded ideas do not come at these points.

If you are overcome, pause, take a few deep breaths, drink some water and proceed when you are ready. The audience will understand that the emotion you show is natural.

Again, a eulogy should evoke positive feelings from the bereaved. As such, it is important that you should avoid raising the question "why?". Likewise, do not rail against the circumstances surrounding the death or its unfairness. Remember that you are not preparing an obituary or memorial for publication, both of which summarize total life achievements rather than provide a personalized segment.

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

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VOTED “BE S T BY

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Mental Health Spotlight: Keeping the Empathy Kettle Full Empathy by definition is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. Some of us have it, some not.

Many who struggle with mental health issues have a heightened sense of empathy and that sensitivity can cause us problems. Particularly when we have our own anxieties, fear and anger to deal with on a consistent basis. We certainly don't want to push empathy away as it is a great gift of being human. However, there is an old saying that goes: "You can't make a cup of tea from an empty kettle."

So how do we go about finding that elusive balance between self-care and care for others? Personally, I try to keep myself at that balance point of highs and lows. Having bipolar disorder, this is an everyday goal. It's simply part of my routine like brushing my teeth or waking up. Some days it's easy, others days not so much. This is what having a mental illness is about.

I've spoken in past Spotlights about acceptance, the importance of having a treatment plan/team and coping skills that each person develops according to what works for them. When I think about empathy, I have come to see it as a part of every one of those things.

Taking time, knowledge and expertise to help someone else who may be struggling is a tremendous reward. I don't help for the reward, it simply happens.

Think about it. How do you feel when you help someone else? How do you feel when you see their pain turn to smiles or how their mood changes? That

changed our perspective on mental illness and my son will be attending your group starting next week."

That's some powerful stuff. I had no idea. Sometimes, it's the footprints that we leave behind that may assist others on their journeys forward. In that particular case, I was totally unaware.

The power to heal many times is simply in our own hands if we reach out to another, even if we don't know they are listening. positive feeling refills the kettle and it keeps the positive flow cycle going.

Many times, it's just making ourselves available to sit and listen. Most are seeking the same answers and comfort that the rest of us seek. We are human.

What separates us from other animals is that we are social creatures. No one is perfect. To me, accepting that is a great foundation to start. Through that acceptance that we all need a little help now and then, we can even find a unique strength through sharing highs and lows.

Failures and achievements. This can also happen without our knowledge.

Recently at one of my group therapies, a woman came into the back of the room before we started. She called me aside and shook my hand with tears in her eyes. "I heard you speak during a presentation in Mount Lebanon," she said. "You have no idea how your personal story touched our family. It

NEED HELP? IN THE U.S., CALL 1800-273-8255 FOR THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE. *Mental Health Spotlight is an opinion based column. Any resources mentioned are provided for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the specialized training and professional judgment of a health care or mental health care professional.

Do you have news? Know someone unique we should profile? Want us to list your special event? Get in touch!

Email carla@pabridges.com or call 724-769-0123

OLD FASHIONED THANKSGIVING SERVICE Celebrating our 120th Anniversary FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, CALIFORNIA

Sunday, November 19 at 9:30 a.m.

Special music by the choir, featuring a guest organist and violinist. Refreshments and fellowship afterwards. Please join us!

303 4TH STREET, CALIFORNIA

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

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL will return to the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts on Tuesday, November 21-Sunday, November 26.The hit Broadway musical features music and lyrics from the legendary Motown catalogue and is produced by Work Light Productions.

Directed by Charles RandolphWright, MOTOWN is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy's journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of soul pioneers such as: Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, and Marvin Gaye.

Featuring all the classics you love, MOTOWN tells the story behind the hits as Diana, Smokey, Berry and the whole Motown family fight against the odds to create the soundtrack of change in America.

Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat.

Tickets for MOTOWN THE MUSICAL at the Benedum Center currently start at $30* and are available at these Pittsburgh Cultural Trust official ticket sources:TrustArts.org, by calling 412-456-4800 or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue.

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News from Greater Monessen Historical Society The Board of Directors of the Greater Monessen Historical Society wish to thank everyone who attended and supported the Colonel Schoonmaker Birthday Bash. The annual fundraiser dinner was a big success. Photos are available on Facebook and the webpage.

The Greater Monessen Historical Society membership renewal and fund campaign letters for the 2018 year will soon be in the mail. Individual memberships are $15 per year. A family membership is $20, with a business membership being $50.

The Autumn Exhibit at the Monessen Heritage Museum is called “Treasures from the Archives”. It showcases individual panels such as “Presidential visits”, the life of Colonel Schoonmaker, river transportation, firefighting history, early baseball, local art, radios, and the burning of the second Monessen High School. The display will be open through the end of the year during regular business hours.

The Monessen Heritage Museum will be closed on Thursday, November 23, 2017 for the observance of Thanksgiving Day. The Society is looking for photos of

old Monessen Christmas scenes. Photos can be dropped off at the Heritage Museum to be scanned or emailed to monessen@verizon.net . The Society is also still seeking photos of the Washington and Linden Elementary Schools.

The Historical Society will welcome Santa at Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center on Saturday, December 2, 2017 and sponsor free photos with the jolly old man, which will be mailed to the recipient. Check Facebook for further details and times.

The Greater Monessen Historical Society has a Twitter account. Follow us at @MonessenHistory. We are also on Facebook and have over 3000 followers worldwide! We can be located on Facebook under “Greater Monessen Historical Society”. See our latest events, news and photos of previous events. Google us and find our webpage filled with all the necessary information to visit, donate, join or learn about us!

The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM until 3 PM. The address is 505 Donner Avenue, Monessen, PA, 15062. The phone number is 724-684-8460. Admission is free.

Lucie Arnaz to appear in Pittsburgh on 11/13 The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is pleased to announce An Evening with Lucie Arnaz, will be presented on Monday, November 13, at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., on the intimate stage of the Cabaret at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue.

These performances by Ms. Arnaz, Broadway star and Emmy-award winning producer, are presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, as part of the 2017-2018 TRUST Cabaret Series, now in its 6th season.

Lucie Arnaz has had an extremely diversified career spanning over fortyfive years in show business. She has starred on Broadway in They're Playing Our Song (Theatre World, Los Angeles Drama Critics, and Outer Critics Circle Awards), Lost in Yonkers, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Pippin; Off-Broadway in Grace and Glorie with Estelle Parsons, to name a few. On television credits include The Lucie Arnaz Show, Sons and Daughters, The Black Dahlia, and six seasons of the Here's Lucy show (co-starring with her mother, Lucille Ball); on the big screen with Neil Diamond and Sir Laurence Olivier in The Jazz Singer (Golden Globe nomination), Down to You and Second Thoughts, among others. Lucie performed the opening number on the Academy Awards (1981) and at The White House several times. She was the

Attention Vietnam Era Veterans (and families) Plans for an Honor Roll for Vietnam Era Veterans are moving along quickly in California, PA. The committee is collecting information about anyone in the California Area School District who served in the Armed Forces any time during the following dates: November 1, 1955-April 30, 1975.

Vets (or their families) should send the following information to California, PA Vietnam War Honor Roll, P.O. Box 605, California, PA 15419: First, middle, and last name of the Veteran, Branch of

22

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

executive producer of the I Love Lucy 50th Anniversary Special (Emmy nomination) and Lucy & Desi: A Home Movie (Emmy winner, 1993). As a nightclub headliner, she has traveled internationally with her various concerts for 27 years.

She has taught at the world renowned Jacob's Pillow in Massachusetts, and recently directed the New York workshop of Hazel: A Musical Maid in America headed to Broadway.

Upcoming performances in the 20172018 TRUST Cabaret Series will offer audiences more rare opportunities to experience the finest cabaret artists at the intimate Cabaret at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue, in downtown Pittsburgh's Cultural District, at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. New this year, the TRUST Cabaret Series offers a meet and greet time when patrons can meet the artists in between the two shows: between 8:15-8:45 p.m.! Performances coming up in the 2017-2018 TRUST Cabaret Series will showcase Tony and Grammy Award-winning performers: Marin Mazzie & Jason Danieley (February 12, 2018), Carmen Cusack (March 12, 2018), and LaChanze (April 16, 2018).

Tickets ($55, $65) are available at these official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: please visit TrustArts.org, call 412-456-6666 or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue.

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Brownsville native awarded British Fantasy Award for Best Newcomer Story by Lauren Rearick Award-winning author Erika Satifka is sharing the stories and surroundings of her childhood neighborhoods in Western Pa. with readers around the world.

Growing up in Brownsville and graduating from California University and Seton Hill, Satifka is deeply familiar with the magic of Southwestern Pa. and she's keen to share that hometown with others in the form of her fantasy and science fiction novels.

Beginning her writing career as a young child, Satifka was recently recognized for her work, receiving the British Fantasy Award for Best Newcomer for her recently released novel, “Stay Crazy”. Currently based in Seattle, Satfika started work on the award winning novel more than ten years ago. But, there was one point where she was unsure if the book would ever see the light of day.

“I had stopped writing for a bit and then came back a couple years ago and started writing short stories again,”she said. “I started “Stay Crazy”in 2005 and it went into my drawer for eight years. I pulled it out in 2014 and rewrote the entire thing, kind of using the old novel as a template.”

When Satifka started reading through “Stay Crazy”again she realized how much she had grown as a writer and made the decision to completely scrap

the plot. Although based around a story of science fiction, the story is set in her very real hometowns, Brownsville and Uniontown.

Although she loves her childhood hometown, the story takes a look at one's desires to leave where they grew up to chase after bigger dreams.

“I always wanted to live in a city,”she said. “The story is very much based on the idea that the character wants to escape, to get out. I had always loved being around cities and living with a lot of people and having adventures, so it's kind of based on my experience.”

Now based in Portland, Ore., Satifka is hopeful she'll continue to work on new novels and short stories. Her ambitions include getting more books published and getting to a point as a writer where she can release new work every year.

She's at work on releasing a short story

before the end of the year along with a fiction novel that focuses on aliens and changing bodies.

While Satifka has gone on to achieve her dream of living in big cities, including Baltimore, she prefers to focus much of her work around fantasy and science fiction ideas, as she finds realistic experiences and plots harder to write. She prefers to look at the impossible and hypothetical, answering the question of what if this would happen.

It's been almost a decade since Satifka returned to writing and she explains that there are still days where she feels uninspired or unable to write.

“I had basically stopped writing for years and years because I just wasn't feeling it,”she said. “There was a point where I didn't really want to get into the world and it just felt like it wasn't for me. Once I moved to Baltimore I kind of jumpstarted writing again. I can really be susceptible to forces outside of my control but I've learned I just kind of have to work through that.”

She may have once taken a hiatus from the written word before, but the author has no plans to slow down her writing anytime again soon.

“I'm much happier when I'm writing,”she said. “I'm much happier when I have something to show for myself or when I'm in a period of writing something then when I'm not. I'd love to be a full-time writer one day.”

Peters Township Library hosts bestselling author Yaa Gyasi on November 9 The Peters Township Library Foundation will welcome the author of Homegoing, Yaa Gyasi, on Thursday, November 9 at 7 p.m.

Tickets are on sale through the library web site at ptlibrary.org or at the Circulation Desk. Ticket prices are $10 for Students and $15 for Adults. A limited number of VIP tickets will be sold for $60 and include VIP seats, a preevent meet and greet with Yaa Gyasi, passed hors d'oeuvres, and a copy of Homegoing. Group rates for 20 or more are also available. Email theptlibraryfoundation@gmail.com for details.

The venue for this special event will be The Bible Chapel's South Hills Campus at 300 Gallery Drive in

McMurray. A book signing will follow the program.

The unforgettable New York Times bestseller Homegoing begins with the story of two half-sisters, separated by forces beyond their control: one sold into slavery, the other married to a British slaver. Written with tremendous

sweep and power, Homegoing traces the generations of family who follow, as their destinies lead them through two continents and three hundred years of history, each life indelibly drawn, as the legacy of slavery is fully revealed in light of the present day.

Yaa Gyasi is the author of the highly acclaimed debut novel Homegoing and a recipient of the National Book Foundation's 2016 “5 Under 35”Award.

Gyasi was born in Ghana and raised in Huntsville, AL. She holds a BA in English from Stanford University and an MFA from the Iowa Writers' Workshop, where she held a Dean's Graduate Research Fellowship. She lives in New York City.

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

The open enrollment period for the ACA has been shortened considerably for the coming year. In previous years, the enrollment period lasted three months.This year, however, it has been shortened to only SIX WEEKS. For coverage beginning January 1, 2018, open enrollment begins November 1, 2017 and ends on December 15, 2017.

Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services has cut navigator grant funding by as much as 75 to 92 percent, forcing programs to scale back or close. Navigator organizations help consumers enroll in exchange plans through the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, there are no funds for advertising and getting the word out about the shortened enrollment period.

The reduction in assistance from navigator organizations mean public awareness efforts have become limited to volunteer actions and word of mouth.

Please pass this information on to every person that you know that may be impacted by these changes in existing enrollment. Copy it and paste it in local places you may visit, make flyers and/or email blast friends and relatives.

This could mean the difference in someone having coverage or going without healthcare. For free, local assistance in choosing coverage options call a Healthcare Navigator at 1-855-2745626.

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Remember When: This Month in History with Fred “Tomato”Terling: Important Dates in November

November 1, 1848 - The first medical school for women opened in Boston.

The Boston Female Medical School was founded by Samuel Gregory with just twelve students. In 1874, the school merged with the Boston University School of Medicine, becoming one of the first co-ed medical schools.

November 1, 1995 - The first all-race local government elections took place in South Africa, marking the end of the apartheid system.

November 2, 1947 - The first and only flight of Howard Hughes' "Spruce Goose”flying boat occurred in Long Beach Harbor, California. It flew about a mile at an altitude of 70 feet. Costing $25 million, the 200-ton plywood eightengine Hercules was the world's largest airplane, designed, built and flown by Hughes. It later became a tourist attraction alongside the Queen Mary ship at Long Beach and has since been moved to Oregon.

November 2, 1962 - During the Cuban Missile Crisis, President John F. Kennedy announced on TV, "the Soviet bases in Cuba are being dismantled, their missiles and related equipment being crated, and the fixed installations at these sites are being destroyed."

November 3, 1948 - Dewey Defeats Truman banner headline appeared on the front page of the Chicago Tribune newspaper. Harry Truman actually defeated Republican candidate Thomas E. Dewey for the presidency.

November 4, 1922 - King Tut's tomb was discovered at Luxor, Egypt, by British archaeologist Howard Carter after several years of searching. The child-King Tutankhamen became pharaoh at age nine and died around 1352 B.C. at age 19. The tomb was

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found mostly intact, containing numerous priceless items now exhibited in Egypt's National Museum in Cairo.

November 4, 1916 - Famed TV journalist Walter Cronkite (1916-2009) was born in St. Joseph, Missouri. He was a leading correspondent for United Press International during World War II. From 1962 to 1981, he was the anchorman of the CBS Evening News and was widely regarded as America's most trusted journalist.

November 5, 1733 - The first issue of the New York Weekly Journal was published by John Peter Zenger, a colonial American printer and journalist. A year later, he was arrested on charges of libeling New York's royal governor.

November 7, 1944 - President Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected to an unprecedented fourth term, defeating Thomas E. Dewey. Roosevelt died less than a year later on April 12, 1945.

November 8, 1895 - X-rays (electromagnetic rays) were discovered by Wilhelm Roentgen at the University of Wuerzburg in Germany.

November 8, 1900 - Gone with the Wind author Margaret Mitchell (19001949) was born in Atlanta, Georgia. Her romantic novel about the American Civil War sold over 10 million copies, was translated into 30 languages, and was made into one of the most popular movies of all time. She won a Pulitzer Prize in 1937 for the novel, her only book. She died after being struck by an automobile in Atlanta.

November 9, 1989 - The Berlin Wall was opened up after standing for 28 years as a symbol of the Cold War. The

27.9 mile wall had been constructed in 1961.

November 10, 1775 - The U.S. Marine Corps was established as part of the U.S. Navy. It became a separate unit on July 11, 1789.

November 10, 1925 - Actor Richard Burton (1925-1984) was born in Pontrhydyfen, South Wales (as Richard Jenkins). The son of a coal miner, he came to be regarded as one of the greatest acting talents of his day, although he never received an Oscar and was never knighted.

November 11, 1938 - Irving Berlin's God Bless America was first performed.

He had written the song especially for radio entertainer Kate Smith who sang it during her regular radio broadcast.

November 11, 1992 - The Church of England voted to allow women to become priests.

November 13, 1927 - The Holland Tunnel was opened to traffic. The tunnel runs under the Hudson River between New York City and Jersey City and was the first underwater tunnel built in the U.S. It is comprised of two tubes, each large enough for two lanes of traffic.

November 14, 1666 - The first experimental blood transfusion took place in Britain, utilizing two dogs.

November 15, 1969 - The largest antiwar rally in U.S. History occurred as 250,000 persons gathered in Washington, D.C., to protest the Vietnam War. November 17, 1558 - Queen Elizabeth I ascended the throne of England at the age of 25, reigning until 1603 when she was 69. Under her leadership, England became a world power, defeating the Spanish Armada, and witnessed a golden

age of literature featuring works by William Shakespeare, Edmund Spenser and others.

November 18, 1477 William Caxton printed the first book in the English language, The Dictes and Sayengis of the Phylosophers.

November 19, 1939 Construction of the first presidential library began as President Franklin D. Roosevelt laid the cornerstone next to his home in Hyde Park, New York.

November 21, 1783 - The first free balloon flight took place in Paris as Jean Francois Pilatre de Rozier and Marquis Francois Laurent d'Arlandes ascended in a Montgolfier hot air balloon.

November 22, 1935 - Trans-Pacific airmail service began as the China Clipper, a Pan American flying boat, took off from San Francisco, reaching the Philippines 59 hours later. The following year, commercial passenger service began.

November 24, 1859 - Charles Darwin's book On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection was first published, theorizing that all the living creatures descended from a common ancestor.

November 24, 1888 - Motivational lecturer Dale Carnegie (1888-1955) was born in Maryville, Missouri. Best known for his 1936 book How to Win Friends and Influence People which sold millions of copies and was translated into 29 languages.

November 26, 1832 - The first horsedrawn streetcar carried passengers in New York City along Fourth Avenue between Prince Street and 14th Street.

November 29, 1832 - Little Women author Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

November 30, 1782 - A provisional peace treaty was signed between Great Britain and the United States heralding the end of America's War of Independence. The final treaty was signed in Paris on September 3, 1783. It declared the U.S. "...to be free, sovereign and independent states...”and that the British Crown "...relinquishes all claims to the government, propriety and territorial rights of the same, and every part thereof."

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

Book and Film Chronicle Brownsville Native’s Creation of New Sport Story by Dave Zuchowski When an older friend began teaching Bill Viola, Sr. Shotokan karate in middle school in Brownsville in the mid-1960s, little did Viola suspect that this initial taste of martial arts would led his creation of a new sport.

Viola, now 69, went on to establish the Allegheny Shotokan Academy in 1969.

Eleven years later, he and business partner Frank Caliguri introduced the new sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) by staging the first regulated mixed martial arts competitions in the United States.

“When most fight fans think MMA history, they immediately reminisce about the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) which made its debut in 1993,”said Bill Viola, Jr.. “My Dad and Frank [Caliguri] created the sport over a decade before the UFC.” To tell the story of his father's and Caliguri's contributions to the sport, Bill Viola, Jr. and his cousin, Dr. Fred Adams, began gathering information for a website devoted to the sport in 2009.

As they gathered information, the project grew with such momentum it morphed into a book titled “Godfathers of MMA: Birth of an American Sport” Another important element came into the picture when the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum at the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh unveiled an exhibit in 2011. The display

documented Viola's MMA roots, thereby baptizing Pittsburgh as the birthplace of the sport in the U.S. When several film makers attended the exhibit, they saw it as a story that needed to be told. As a result, Academy Award nominated documentarian Morgan Spurlock (SUPER SIZE ME) teamed with Oscar winning filmmaker Ross Kauffman (BORN INTO BROTHELS) to produce “Tough Guys,”a film that chronicles the history of MMA beginning in Pittsburgh over a decade before the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) existed.

“Back then, my dad literally mixed up all the martial arts and invented the 'Tough Guy' competition, not to be confused with Toughman, which was purely boxing,”Viola Jr. said. “Last year the

UFC sold for $4 billion dollars.”

The film was shot in 18 different locations, and roughly 80% of the footage, according to Viola, Jr., was shot in Western Pennsylvania including Brownsville, New Kensington and Pittsburgh. The film also includes footage of the first championship finals held at the Stanley Theater [now the Benedum Center} on April 18, 1980.

When “Tough Guys”made its debut at the American Film Institute's Film Festival in our nation's capital this past July, Showtime secured the rights to make a network debut. The film debuted on Showtime on September 15.

“When Dad saw the film he was blown away,”said Viola, Jr. who played the role of his father in the film.

“Godfathers of MMA”served as the framework for the film, and Viola Jr. rereleased the book as a commemorative edition to coincide with the network debut of the film. Rebranded as “Tough Guys”to match the film, the revised book includes bonus material and a new chapter.

On September 18, with help from the release of the film, “Tough Guys' made it to the top, number 1 spot in the sports category on amazon.com. The book is speckled with photos of Viola, Sr. growing up in Brownsville, the MMA fighters and more.

“It's an honor to be associated with an Academy Award winning team,”Viola, Jr. said. “Pittsburgh is a city of champions with teams like the Penguins, the Steelers and the Pirates. It's nice to be able to get the word out that it's also the birthplace of Mixed Martial Arts.”

FirstEnergy Foundation grant will help train tomorrow’s teachers The FirstEnergy Foundation has awarded Waynesburg University’s Department of Education a $5,000 grant for the purchase of iPads.

The iPads will be used in college classrooms to teach future educators how to integrate technology into daily lessons for K-12 students.

“FirstEnergy recognizes the value of a strong, well-educated work force for the future,”said Randy Durr, manager of

external affairs for FirstEnergy. “We’re pleased to support this effort to equip future educators with the tools they need.”

Through the use of the iPads, Waynesburg University students will learn how to find appropriate applications that support the objectives they are teaching and how to actively engage students in the activity. Students will also learn how to use data from applica-

tions to make instructional decisions.

“We are excited to have the grant money to purchase iPads for the Education Department,”said Yvonne Weaver, chairperson for the University’s Education Department and instructor of education. “Faculty will use various iPad applications to help our future teachers learn how to infuse technology into their lessons.”

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

O PEN YOUR H EART & H OME The Southwestern Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is looking for individuals in your area to open their homes and offer a caring, safe, and nurturing family environment for eligible adults who cannot live independently due to physical, intellectual or age related impairments.

Domiciliary Care Providers are typically individuals who open their homes and are willing to provide residents with housing, support, care and encouragement in a family-like setting.They are everyday people making a difference in their communities and in the lives of others.

When you share your home and provide services, you receive $979.00 a month for each individual residing in your home. Services include meals, housekeeping, laundry, medication set up, scheduling and providing transportation to medical appointments. Domiciliary Care homes can accommodate 1-3 residents and are certified to meet the required fire, health and local zoning standards.

If you are interested in becoming a certified Domiciliary Care provider and providing quality living alternative for a person who meets the criteria, or want to refer someone who will benefit from the programs services contact: Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging Domiciliary Care Program at 1-800-411-5655.

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World) & The Latshaw Pops.

NOW PLAYING! Sat., Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m. - River City Brass presents AMERICANA - Adult $25 - 31; Senior $23 - $29; Student $10; Children 6 and under free - From “This Land is Your Land”to “Stairway to Heaven”, River City Brass celebrates the diverse genres that, together, define American music folk, country, blues, R&B, and classic rock.

Tues., Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. - REGINA SPEKTOR - A Special Solo Performance $49.75, $59.75, $79.75 ($5.25 additional day of the show) - Described by Esquire as “our generation's Joni Mitchell,”Regina has sold out shows at Radio City Music Hall, The Royal Albert Hall in London and two nights at Sydney Opera House in Australia.

Her songs (On the Radio, Better and Fidelity) have climbed the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart and appeared in TV shows and movies including Orange Is The New Black, Grey's Anatomy, How I Met Your Mother, The Good Wife and (500) Days of Summer.

Wed., Nov. 8 at 7:45 p.m. - AN EVENING WITH DREAM THEATER $42, $52, $65 ($5 additional at the door) Dream Theater's Images, Words & Beyond 25th Anniversary Tour sees the pioneering group celebrating the 25th anniversary of their milestone RIAA gold-certified album, Images & Words. The tour will feature an unparalleled live set of Images & Words in its entirety, along with fan favorites from their deep, widely-acclaimed catalog.

Sat., Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m. - GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP, THE COWSILLS, CHUCK BLASKO'S VOGUES & THE LATSHAW POPS $43, $48, $53, $58, $68 - Gary Puckett and The Union Gap was one of the most successful musical groups of the sixties. Gary's unmistakable signature voice garnered six consecutive gold records and Top Ten Billboard hits with songs like Young Girl, Woman Woman, Lady Willpower and Over You. Additional performers include The Cowsills (The Rain, The Park & Other Things, Hair, Indian Lake), Chuck Blasko's Vogues (You're The One, Five O'Clock

Mon., Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. --rescheduled from Sun., June 4 at 7 p.m. - OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN - $58, $68, $88, $95, $125 - Olivia's appeal seems to be timeless. With a career spanning more than five decades, she is still a vibrant, creative individual adored by fans around the globe. Her credits include the starring role in Grease and her hits Xanadu, I Honestly Love You, Let Me Be There, Summer Nights, Magic & Suddenly.

Fri., Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m., Sat., Nov. 18 at 7:30 p.m., & Sun., Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. - Stage Right! presents ANNIE Adults: $19, $23, $26; Students: $16, $19, $21 - Based on the popular comic strip, Annie has become a musical phenomenon.

With equal measures of pluck and positivity, the adorable redhead reminds us: “Tomorrow is only a day away!”

Mon., Nov. 20 at 7:45 p.m. - KING CRIMSON - $69, $79, $89 - Led by group founder, guitar hero and Mellotron virtuoso Robert Fripp, King Crimson has been a leading force in prog rock since the release of its groundbreaking 1969 debut, In the Court of the Crimson King. In the decades since, this pioneering unit has continued to embody the progressive rock movement with a series of some of that music's most enduring albums: Islands, Red, Discipline, Beat, Three of a Perfect Pair and more.

Thurs., Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. - OAK RIDGE BOYS CHRISTMAS SHOW $45, $55, $65, $75 - The Oak Ridge Boys produce one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry.

Their four-part harmonies and upbeat songs have spawned dozens of country hits, such as Elvira, Dream On, Bobby Sue, Fancy Free, American Made, and Thank God for Kids. Throughout their fourdecade career, The Oak Ridge Boys have received numerous gold and platinum records and continue to thrill audiences with their unique blend of country and gospel music.

THE PALACE THEATRE 34 W.Otterman Street, Greensburg

Box Office: 724-836-8000 26

thepalacetheatre.org

Exploring the Paranormal with Reanna Roberts November. The weather is getting cooler, the trees are losing their leaves, and various animals are going into hibernation relatively soon. The weather is turning, and not for the better. Soon we will have snow. In this article, I want to address winter hauntings.

Generally, when there is a haunting that cannot be disproved (or debunked, for another term,) it is not seasonal. It may be more noticeable in certain seasons, maybe when you are spending more time indoors, but it will not come and go season to season. This article is just a simple reminder, though, of what to check before jumping to the conclusion that there are ghosts in your house.

First thing's first, assess where the noise is coming from. Is it the attic or basement? Do you have a chimney or an exterior door in the location? Check for signs of critters that may have snuck in. Look for food scraps, animal droppings, or any signs that something could be living there. It is getting cold for everyone and everything, especially if you have an attic and an active fireplace, and the heat that the chimney gives off can attract animals. Similarly, the basement may appeal to them, especially if that is where you have a hot water heater, HVAC unit, or any other appliances that could give off warmth, could be similarly attractive.

Second, is this in the main portion of the house? Do you open your windows when the weather is nice? Are they all

closed tightly? An open window in a seldom used room can cause a lot of noise and pull/push doors to make it seem like someone is in the room. Even just a window opened an inch can do this. I especially urge you to check the tops of windows; I know in my house those like to come undone and slide downward, causing issues. What about ductwork? That is another place I would check for animal intruders. Many of us are just recently turning on our heaters.

Be certain you just aren't having to get reacquainted to the noises the heater makes when it turns on.

After all of this, if you are still noticing things that just don't seem right or are going bump in the night, you may want to reach out to someone to come and investigate. The Pittsburgh area has quite a few that you can reach out to and most are online with their own sites or at least a Facebook page and/or phone number.

Waynesburg Student Art Exhibit on Display The Waynesburg University Department of Fine Arts will host a senior art exhibition for art major Laura Auten until Friday, Nov. 17.

“I am very excited about my upcoming exhibition, because I will finally be able to show my work to the school and all my friends,”said Auten.

Auten said many of her pieces will be landscapes and portraits, with a mixture of both oil paintings and sketches. Her favorite medium is graphite or charcoal.

“As I work with any type of medium, I feel more relaxed and my outside world seems to fade away as I get 'in the zone,'”said Auten. “With my drawings, I attempt to make things appear as realistic as possible, but still possessing a drawing-like quality to them.”

For Auten, the senior art exhibition is an exciting opportunity to show how

she has grown as an artist at Waynesburg. “…I feel [my education] has pushed me to further my abilities as an artist to not just copy down the world, but rather display the emotion and beauty that the world evokes,”she said. “Over the past year, I have come to realize what it is I desire within my work: the desire to not just portray a subject, but rather to create a subtle but significant meaning within each piece that will create a connection with the viewer.”

Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by appointment. For more information about the exhibition, call 724-852-3274.

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“Branson on the Road Christmas Style” to take stage at The Palace Theatre What do you get when you bring together a mandolin, banjo, guitar, upright slap bass, beautiful rhinestone costumes, hilarious comedy and country Christmas, bluegrass, rockabilly and gospel music?

Only one answer - Branson “Christmas” On The Road® is in town.

Branson “Christmas” On The Road® is the holiday show from the popular touring group Branson On The Road® direct from the live music capital of the world, Branson, Missouri. The Palace Theatre in Greensburg is proud to be hosting this popular show once again on November 25 at 2 p.m.

Branson On The Road® has over 20 years of experience of performing at the top theatres in Branson on the famous 76 Country Music Boulevard (known as “The Strip”), and is the first national touring show named for the famous city. The show delivers the Branson traditions of good, clean, family fun wherever they go...and they go all over the US and beyond...and Branson “Christmas” On The Road® is a wonderful way to kick off your holiday season.

Those seeing a Branson “Christmas” On The Road® show for the first time, can not only expect great Christmas music, old country favorites and amazing instrumental abilities, but also plenty of hilarious comedy every step of the way - in a holiday, Branson-style for the entire family.

Branson “Christmas” On The Road® is the best way to experience a Branson show right where you live. For a couple of hours you can forget all about your troubles and have a good time - laughter is the best medicine.

“We reside in the live music capital of the world, Branson, Missouri”, said

Debbie Horton, “and realized that there are many people who will never have a chance to visit Branson personally so we decided to bring our Branson stage show directly to them and this time, bring a little Branson Christmas back to Greensburg. You will be singing along, laughing and enjoying every minute of this Christmas show. It's so much fun for everyone.”

Debbie Horton holds the distinction of being the only woman to have played lead guitar for the great Johnny Cash and recently made her debut on the world famous Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. She hosted her own show at the old Boxcar Willie Theater in Branson and has performed on the legendary Louisiana Hayride and the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree in Nashville. She was a radio DJ in Norfolk, Virginia and acted as MC for concerts with Kenny Rogers, Hank Williams, Jr., the Oak Ridge Boys, and many more. Among her other credits,

N OW AVAILABLE . S UBSCRIBE

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Debbie is an accomplished songwriter.

She has had her songs recorded by Wanda Jackson, Norma Jean and many other country singers.

Brian Capps is a founding member of Branson On The Road® and has been part of the Ozarks music scene for over 20 years. Brian plays upright bass and sings songs reminiscent of Marty Robbins and Hank Williams. Brian's latest recording reached the Top 10 on the Americana Charts. As one of the best upright bass players in America, Brian has worked with many Grand Ole Opry stars like Hank Thompson, Tommy Cash, Stonewall Jackson, Wanda Jackson, Norma Jean, and Johnny Counterfit.

Cliff Boone is the newest member of Branson On The Road®. Cliff was born in Montana but grew up in the Ozarks.

Cliff was part of the Branson music scene for many years and a member of the cast of the popular show “Hank Williams Revisited”. Cliff plays fantastic guitar, mandolin and banjo and thrills audiences with his smooth baritone voice. A true pro with a wonderful talent to entertain audiences wherever he goes.

Branson On The Road® is a regular featured act on the national television show, “Midwest Country” on the RFDTV network seen in over 100 million homes. Visit BransonOnTheRoad.com to learn more. The show will be held Saturday, November 25 at 2 p.m. at The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. For tickets, call 724-8368000 or visit thepalacetheatre.org.

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Y EARLONG SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE ONLY $36 Send your address & check or money order to: Pennsylvania Bridges, 114 4th Street, California, PA 15419 C ONTACT US FOR SECURE ONLINE PAYMENTS .

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The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces arts education programming for fall 2017. These educational offerings provide students, teachers and members of the community exciting and new opportunities to gain personal and professional growth through programs that nurture an appreciation and understanding of the arts.The immersive experiences are available to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Gratitude Trees Workshop - Sat., Nov. 11, 10 a.m. - Perfect as a Thanksgiving table centerpiece, gratitude trees depict the numerous people, places, and things for which you are thankful.Work with family or friends or individually as you craft a sculptural gratitude tree using natural and recycled materials, as well as a variety of art-making tools and techniques. For a more personalized tree, bring copies of photos or other memorabilia to incorporate.

Mosaic Making Workshop - Sat., Nov. 11, 11 a.m. - Learn a variety of techniques to create your own beautiful mosaic. Bring your hammer, work gloves, and a snack.We'll provide the rest!

First Night Puppet Making - Sat., Dec. 9, 11 a.m. - In preparation for the FedEx Ground Parade, join artist and Parade Creative Director Cheryl Capezzuti to create your own amazing parade puppetry. Participants can sign up to carry these.

Designing Project Based Learning Through Arts Integration: Performing Arts - Sat., Nov. 4, 9 a.m. - In this performancebased workshop, participants will work with everyday objects and repurposed materials to engineer giant puppets inspired by movement found in the natural world in order to promote deep learning through Project Based Learning plans that span the STEM fields. Act 48 credits available.

Unless otherwise noted, events take place at the Trust Arts Education Center, 805-807 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, located in downtown Pittsburgh's Cultural District. FMI and registration:TrustArts.org/Education or call the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust's Arts Education department at 412-471-6930.

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

CALIFORNIA PUBLIC LIBRARY 100 Wood St., California calpublib.org Every Tues at 10 a.m. is STORY TIME with Ellen, a retired elementary librarian. Ellen presents a fresh Story Time every Tues at 10 a.m. and Story Time with Kristen and Friends is presented on select Saturdays at 10 a.m. Each Story Time includes a snack & craft.

Reservations are recommended.The California Recreation Authority sponsors Saturday Story Time.

FMI: Call 724-938-2907.

The Bentleyville Public Library has moved to a temporary location at the Fairway Communications building at 608 Main Street, Bentleyville.

Every Tues - TOPS - 5-6:15 p.m. Weight loss group Coffee and Crayons - Every Friday at 10:30 a.m. - Bring in a book or try one of our pages and stop and enjoy each other’s company as we color.This program is for adults of any age.

Make It Monday every Monday from 12 p.m. on we will have a Make It Monday sponsored by Friends of the Bentleyville Library where we will have an activity, or craft out all day that you can make here at the library.We will change it every week.

Nov. 5 - Bingo or Bust at 2 p.m. at the Bentleyville VFD Social Hall Nov. 6 - Bentleyville Historical Society meets at 6:30 p.m.

Nov. 14 - Board Meeting Board meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

Nov. 15 - Family Craft Night On the third Wednesday of every month make a craft and have some fun open to all ages - 5:30 p.m.

Nov. 16 - Book Club (reading My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout) at 6 p.m.

Nov. 23 - CLOSED (closing at 5 p.m. on Nov. 22) Nov. 27 - Friends of Bentleyville Library - Help support the library and plan fun events at 6:30 p.m.

LEGO Club at 5:30 p.m. the 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month ages 7 & up FMI: Call us at 724-239-5122.

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CHARTIERS-HOUSTON LIBRARY 730 West Grant St., Houston washlibs.org/chartiers-houston TAG:Teen Advisory Group meets First Saturday of every month at 12 noon. Are you in grades 6-12? Want to earn volunteer hours in the company of your friends?

Join our Teen Advisory Group and meet once a month to brainstorm ideas about programs you’d like to see in the library, books you’d want to recommend, or projects you and other volunteers could help the library complete. “Brainfood”, aka, snacks, will be provided and the library Wii video games, and board games will be made available at each meeting.

Looking for crafting buddies to inspire your creative projects? Come to our monthly crafterdays. Here we welcome crafters of all kinds to sit and knit, crochet, or even paper mache in the company of other creative crafters.

Each crafterday will also include printed instructions and a live demo on how to make a simple craft. Event held 3rd Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.

Join our Lego club on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.

The program is open to all ages, although it is recommended for ages 5 and up.The library is also accepting donations of new or gently used Lego sets.

Wednesdays at 6 p.m. - “Shut Up & Write” - This is a venue for writers to work in the company of other writers on a regular basis.

First Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. - Join our Mystery Book Club for a riveting read and book discussion.

Register at the library or call us at 724-745-4300.

CITIZENS LIBRARY - NOVEMBER 2017 ACTIVITIES Preschool Story Time, for ages 3-5, is on Tuess, 2:00 – 2:30, from Oct. 3 through December 5.

Toddler Story Times are on Wednesday mornings from Oct. 4 through December 6.Toddler Story Times are: 10:30 – 11:00 for ages 1 ½ to 2 years, and 11:30 – 12:00 for ages 2 ½ to 3 years.

Registration is required for all story times. Call 724-222- 2400, ext. 235 or stop in the Children’s Dept. for moreinformation or to register; “Parent’s Guide to Story Time” brochures are available at the desk.

Teen Time - Tuesdays from 4:30 p.m. 6 p.m. - Come hang out, play games, use our Maker Space, and much more. New activities every week. - For grades 6 and up Middle Grade Book Club - Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. - Discuss books, make a craft, and eat some pizza. - For grades 6-8 Monthly Chess Club - Meets the first Saturday of the month from 10-11:30 a.m., and is open to all ages and all levels of play. Instructors will be available.

Chess Club is free, and is open to all ages, including adults.

LEGO Club will meet on the 2nd and 4th Mons, from 5-6 p.m.The program is open to all ages, and there are sets of larger building blocks for children who are too young for regular sized Lego bricks.The Children’s Dept. is also accepting donations of new or gently used LEGO sets.

November 11 - Holiday Craft Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. - Contact CitiBooks for more info about becoming a vendor.

CitiBooks, a used books bookstore in the lower level of the library, is open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.Tues & Wed; 10 a.m to 6 p.m.Thurs; & 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat. CitiBooks is staffed by volunteers & all proceeds benefit the library.

To volunteer, email friendsofcitizenslibrary@gmail.com.

Citizen’s Library is located at 55 South College Street,Washington, PA 15301. Phone # is 724-222-2400 FMI: washlibs.org/citizens

FREDERICKTOWN AREA LIBRARY - 38 WATER ST., FREDERICKTOWN WEBSITE: WASHLIBS.ORG/FREDERICKTOWN - PHONE: 724-377-0017 Rep. Pam Snyder's Community Outreach staff every third Tuesday of each month from 11-3. Just stop in.

Fall Story Hour will be held Thursdays at 10 a.m. Call to register.

Reading Club will meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the library. Call to register your child.

Discovery Detectives will meet the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:00 at the

library. Call to register your child.

Teen Book Club will meet the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the library. Call to register.

SIT N KNIT/CROCHET will meet the second and fourth Thursday of the month. Beginner-expert welcome.

We’re looking for Library Trustees.

Interested? Contact us at the library.

MONONGAHELA AREA LIBRARY - 813 W. MAIN ST., MONONGAHELA WEBSITE: WASHLIBS.ORG/MONONGAHELA - PHONE: 724-258-5409 The library has more than 30,000 items in our Collection including the Ringgold High School Reading List books and the River Buffs library, a small collection of transportation and navigation-related material.

Our Genealogy & History Collection has more than 800 volumes, and microfilm of the Monongahela Valley Republican (1851 – 1870; 1876 – 1908), the Monongahela Valley Daily Republican (most volumes 1881 –

1970), the Daily Herald (most volumes 1970 – 1983) and The Bentleyville Courier newspapers (1976 – 1982), and governmental minutes of the city from the 1850s to the 1920s.These items are all in library use only. Other restrictions may apply.

One of their Genealogy holdings, the Bebout & Yohe Funeral Home records, were transcribed by Leslie Nelson and can be viewed online on the library’s web site.

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

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

PETERS TOWNSHIP LIBRARY November Activities ptlibrary.org

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

Free Monday Movie Matinee. Stop by the library on the first Monday of each month at 1:00pm for the viewing of a newly released film to DVD. Popcorn and water are provided.

Friends of the Library - Monthly meetings are held at 6:30pm on the 4th Monday of each month.

Knitting at the Library meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. & the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Contact: Judy Yoskosky Afternoon Book Club meets the 2nd Wednesday of each Month at 1 p.m.

Contact: Judy Wasko Every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. - Tiny Tykes Program - For kids ages 18 months-3 years old.

Please call 724-379-5511 to register.

Tiny Tunes Music - Mondays at 11 a.m. - Ages: 2½ - 5 with an adult.Tiny Tunes Music is a fun, casual program of playing with and learning about music.

Book Babies - Tues at 10 a.m. - Birth12 months with an adult.

Mother Goose Storytime - Tues at 11 a.m. - Ages: 12 - 24 months with an adult.They're just learning to talk -give them something to talk about.

Toddler Tales - Wednesdays at 10 a.m.

- Ages: 2 - 3½ with an adult.

Wii Sports for Adults - Every Wednesday - Stay active in the comfort of your library. No registration required.

Kindergarten Storytime - Thursdays at 10 a.m. & 1:15 p.m. - Ages: Kindergartners and 5-year-olds.This full-hour program goes the next step in learning and loving reading. Register at the Youth Services Desk.

Coloring, Coffee & Classics - 9:15 a.m. - For ages 18 and up. Every Wednesday in Café Lee. Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee.

Drop In Chess - Tues at 11 a.m.-2 p.m. - Every Tues in Café Lee. Drop in with a partner and challenge yourselves to a game or two of chess. FMI, call 724-941-9430.

Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center will host local authors, Brianne, Della & Lila Mitchell on Mon., Nov. 6, at 6 p.m.They will read their new book, "Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Mermaid". A book signing will follow with Monongahela Mermaid items for sale. All proceeds go to providing Christmas gifts for children involved in the Children and Youth Services agency. If anyone wishes to support the program, they can bring a personal gift for a child in need.

A "Night at the Races" fundraiser will be held on Fri., November 3, at the Epiphany Chapel Hall, on Pennsylvania Blvd to benefit the Library. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Admission is $10, and tickets can be purchased at the Library Circulation Desk or from a Board of Trustee member.

We will be closed Nov. 23-25 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Holiday Boutique will open in November and feature new or gently used items at reasonable prices.

Enjoy Coupon Books are at the Circulation Desk for a $30 donation.

Copies of the Monessen Veterans' Flag Book are also available at the Circulation Desk. During the month of November, they can be obtained at the special price of a $10 donation.

The Mon Valley Genealogy Forum will meet on Mon., Nov. 20, at 5:30 p.m.

The Knitting/Crochet Club will meet on Wed., Nov. 8 and 22, at 6 p.m.

Children's Storytime will be held on Mondays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m.Toddlertime is Tuesdays at 1 p.m. with Techie Tuesdays for ages 6 to 12 at 6 p.m.

Sat., Nov. 4, at 11 a.m. - Gobble, Gobble Bingo.

Thurs., Nov. 9, Library Sleep-over Night. Bring your Teddy Bear.

Sat., Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. - Veterans Day Storytime.

Mon., Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. - Dear Santa Letter Week.

Sat., Nov. 18, at 11 a.m. - National Game and Puzzle Week.

Monday, Nov. 20, at 6 p.m. Thanksgiving Storytime and Turkey Bowling.

Monday, Nov. 27, at 6 p.m. - Make and Take Christmas ornaments.

JOHN K.TENER LIBRARY 638 Fallowfield Ave. Charleroi washlibs.org/john-k-tener Craft days for kids. A new craft will be available the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month.

FMI about the John K.Tener Library in Charleroi, call 724-483-8282.

BELLE VERNON PUBLIC LIBRARY - 505 SPEER STREET, BELLE VERNON WEBSITE: bellevernonlibrary.org - PHONE: 724-929-6642 NEW! eBooks and eAudiobooks are back from OverDrive! You are able to download eBooks and eAudiobooks from your home computer and mobile devices by going to the OverDrive button on our links page.

We now have access to materials from 24 Westmoreland County libraries from any computer. All you need is a valid library card from our library and you can search, place requests, have items sent to a library of your choice in the county, and more.

We offer Adult Bestsellers, both fic-

tion and non-fiction and a growing collection of children's, junior and teen books, Large print adult books, Books on CD/tape, and Children's DVDs and Adult Best Seller DVDs. Internet Access is available for one hour per person each day. Children under the age of 18 must have parental release to access the Internet.

Tax Forms - State and Federal tax forms are available January - April.

Forms not available can be copied at $0.25 per page.

LOCAL LIBRARIES, LEND US YOUR NEWS. Is your local library having a special event or fundraiser? Are you having a guest speaker or author reading/signing? Do you offer story hours, tech help and/or classes? Are you having a used book sale? Send us your news.

There is NEVER A FEE to list library activities in our pages. Send your library news to carla@pabridges.com or call 724-769-0123.

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

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

Storytime with Miss Angie (Preschool ages) - Friday's at 10am Please join us at the Donora Public Library for Storytime with Miss Angie, geared for preschool ages.

Flea Market and Book Sale - Large selection of books and donated items November 4th from 10am to 4pm Ladies Bridge Club - meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday's of each month from 3:30pm to 5:30pm Knit and Crochet Club - meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday's of each month from 5:30pm to 7:00pm Book Club (Adults) - meets the 3rd Thursday of each month from 3:30pm to 4:30pm Lion's Club Meeting - meet the 3rd Monday each month at 6:00pm Monongahela Valley Community Band - meets every Wednesday at 7:00pm The Donora Public Library will partner with the Southwestern Goodwill to host a donation drive.We are once again asking anyone and everyone in the community to bring in any unwanted household items and books you no longer need or want.

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SAVE THE DATE FOR Cal U’s Upcoming Shows 2017-2018 SEASON

Harry Connick Jr.'s The Happy Elf - Steele Hall Mainstage - December 7, 8, 9, 10, 2017 @ 7 p.m., December 910, 2017 @ 2 p.m. - The Happy Elf brings laughter and the holiday spirit back to the Halls of Steele.The Happy Elf is suitable for students of all ages.

Almost, Maine - The Blaney Theatre - March 1, 2, 3, 2018 @ 7 p.m., March 3, 2018 @ 2 p.m.

- This show explores gender, sexuality, discrimination, and bullying issues and introduces the concepts of civic responsibility and the nature of the human condition. High schoolers are welcome.

Heathers: The Musical Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre April 12, 13, 14, 2018 @ 7 p.m., April 14, 2018 @ 2 p.m. - This laugh-out-loud musical comedy unapologetically explores issues of teen suicide, murder, bullying, homophobia, and gun violence. following the performance. Suitable for high school students.

Cognitive Distortions: Spring Dance Concert 2018 - Steele Hall Mainstage - May 3, 4, 5, 2018 @ 7 p.m. - Join student and faculty dancers and choreographers as they explore the communicative aspects of the body. Open to all ages of students interested in dance; and to high school students studying psychology, physical and mental health, and society and cultures.

FMI: calu.edu

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NOVEMBER EVENTS AT THE FRANK SARRIS PUBLIC LIBRARY Ongoing Events Story Time - Monday through Thursday mornings - Programs for children 9 months to 5 years old are offered during the school year to promote early literacy skills. Check our website calendar for days and times appropriate for your child, call the children's desk, or email Miss Barb at bsomma@franksarrislibrary.org.

Lego Club - Mondays 5-6p.m. Children in grades K-8 collaborate with other Master Builders on their own designs or special building challenges.

Spanish Story Time - Tuesday mornings at 11:15a.m. - Preschool children can join Ms. Noreen for story time favorites - stories and songs - in Spanish.

Children will also have fun learning common Spanish words. Email questions to Ms. Noreen at npoploski@franksarrislibrary.org.

Family Night - Tuesdays at 6:30p.m. Come join the fun at our all ages evening story hour with stories, games and activities to share. Please check our website's Event Calendar for weekly themes.

Little Picassos - Wednesday mornings at 10:15a.m. - Children ages 2 - 5 years old along with their fun loving adult can join Miss Barb at the library to do a craft with messy things like glitter, glue, water, paints, etc. Dress appropriately to get messy.

Table Top Gaming - Wednesdays 36p.m. - With more than twenty games to choose from, we invite you and your friends to stop by and play a few.We have classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Catan, along with popular newcomers like Pandemic, Small World, and Betrayal at House on the Hill. If you can't make this organized playing time, feel free to stop by anytime to play.

Knitting & Crocheting - Wednesdays at 6p.m. - Bring your current project and join the knitting group each week.

Wiggles and Giggles - Thursdays at 11:15a.m. - This is a motion class for 2 5 year olds.We will be moving and dancing for 35-40 minutes, so no sitting.

Email questions to Ms. Barb at bsomma@franksarrislibrary.org.

Popcorn & a Movie - Saturdays at 12p.m. - Join us weekly in the Teen

Lounge for some free hot, buttered popcorn while taking in a movie on the big screen. Check our website's Event Calendar for titles.

Book Bites - Adults join us as we discuss a book selected by the book club members. Stop by the adult circulation desk to pick up your copy. New members are welcome. Call the library or check the Event Calendar on our website for more information.

Of Dice and Men - Roleplaying Games - Saturdays at 2p.m. - Weekly, tabletop, roleplaying gaming sessions; we play a variety of games, most notably Dungeons & Dragons and Call of Cthulhu. For Teens and adults; newcomers should come an hour early to set up characters for play.

Computer Instruction - How do I set up an email account? How do I perform a search on the internet? How do I connect with friends and family on Facebook? How do I download an eBook? If these questions sound familiar or you've had similar questions, let us help you get started. Designated library staff will provide one-on-one computer help by appointment only.We will have a computer available for the appointment, but you are welcome to bring your own laptop or device. Call the library at 724-745-1308 for more information or to sign up for an appointment.

Page Turners (High School Students) Book Club - Do you enjoy getting lost in a good book and staying up late just to read one more chapter? If you answered yes, join us for the Page Turners next book club meeting. New members are welcome. Call the library or check the Event Calendar on our website for more information.

Upcoming Events Wednesday 11/1 - Teen Advisory Board 6-7p.m. - Students in grades 7 12 meet monthly to plan, organize and lead activities that will engage and benefit members of the community. Planned activities can be fun, educational, or service related, and they can be for anyone of any age. If you are a student who is interested in making a difference in your community, stop by the meeting or call Beth Kairush,Teen Advisory Board

coordinator, at 724-745-1308 for more information.

Wednesday 11/8 - Genealogy Program 2 p.m. - Ken Britten will be presenting a genealogy workshop on Wednesday, November 8 at 2:00 p.m.. Participants will learn how to create a book about their family.

Thursday 11/9 - Paint & Sip 6-8p.m. Join us for an evening of painting while enjoying light bites, wine and the company of friends.The fee is $20 and must be paid at the time of registration.

Please sign up early as we require a minimum of six participants to hold this event and only have space for 12 people. Deadline for sign up is Tuesday November 7th.

Monday 11/13 - Vegas at the Library 13p.m. - Senior citizens - scratch that Vegas itch with a less costly trip to your library.Win prizes playing casino-like games while enjoying light refreshments.

Monday 11/20 - Teen Writers' Club 67:30p.m. - Are you a student in grades 7 - 12 who enjoys writing? Whether you enjoy writing fiction, poetry, short stories or more, stop by to meet likeminded teens.We'll write, share and support each other through the creative process.This month we'll have a guest speaker for part of the meeting.

The topic will be: the power of word economy - more description with less words. Email questions to Beth Kairush, Teen Advisory Board coordinator, at bkairush@franksarrislibrary.org.

Tuesday 11/28 - Nonfiction Book Club 2-3p.m. - Join us this month as we discuss Thirty Days a Black Man by Bill Steigerwald. New members are welcome. Stop by the adult circulation desk to pick up your copy.

For a complete listing of events, please visit the Frank Sarris Library's website at www.franksarrislibrary.org, on the Event page, or call 724-745-1308 for more information.The Library will be closed on November 23-24th in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.

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

On the Road with Bob Willis: Yellowstone Country Written by Bob Willis About this time every year, when Jack Frost comes calling, many folks hereabouts start drifting southward to Florida or a comfortably warm Caribbean island for a toasty couple of weeks. For me, I love to head west to Yellowstone Country when the area is at its most beautiful…and the huge summer crowds are long gone.

Now, granted, some of the creatures have gone into and settled in their home cave for that long winters nap, but for those who are active all year round, you can share that solitude with Mother Nature's finest creations. Yellowstone National Park and West Yellowstone are filled with many wonders to behold.

You can fly directly into Bozeman Montana and take a shuttle into the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel where you can tour the park in comfortably heated snowcoaches or by snowmobile. Or, you can explore on your own on cross country skis or on snowshoes. Daytrippers can join a guided snowmobile caravan into the park from nearby West Yellowstone. At the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, there are numerous half day and full day “Lodging and Learning, Adventure and Getaway” tour packages available.

Except for the road from Gardiner to Cooke City Montana via Mammoth Hot Springs, transportation within the park is limited to snowmobiles and snowcoaches during the winter months. Snowcoach transportation is available on a daily basis to a number of locations within Yellowstone. Xanterra, the park concessionaire, has available a number of half day and full day snowcoach, snowshoe,and ski tours…rentals and instruction.

Here are just a few of the magical things to expect during a winter visit that won't be seen during the warm seasons.

From the Snow Lodge, you can watch a nighttime eruption of Old Faithful.

Out here at night the air is crisp and clear.

Stand quietly, listen for the heartbeat of the earth and the sounds of the nocturnal creatures calling to their mates.

A cup of steaming hot cocoa is

most welcome.

If you choose the Old Faithful Inn as your Yellowstone accommodation, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find the area is a popular bedding area for the “local” herds of bison. No, they're not waiting to “check in” but simply taking advantage of the geothermal radiation emanating from the nearby geysers.

Traveling through the park, one of my favorite sights is that of a herd of bison, who can withstand temps of down to 50 below, as they wallow along the Yellowstone River or gather around some of the heated features to gather a few remaining sprigs of greenery along the banks at the water's edge. In the winter, they create their wallows in the snow and relax, awaiting the next season's influx of tourists. Of course, if you're touring the park, you'll often share the groomed roads with a family or small herd of bison just out taking a midwinter stroll. At this time of the year you may see many of the bison sporting “snowball beards” dangling from their chin hair. The snow accumulates as the bison forage beneath the snow for winter grasses.

Today, it's hard to imagine that when the first European settlers arrived on the North American shores, between 65 and 80 million bison roamed across the continental landscape. By the very late 1890's, that number had been wantonly decimated to only about 500. In Yellowstone, the number of bison was

down to about two dozen and the park played an important role in bringing the herds back to healthy numbers. If you go to Lamar Valley, “America's Serengeti” you can see the buildings that comprise “The Buffalo Ranch”, the original facility that hosted the Yellowstone herd that was supplemented by bison brought in from Texas. Today Yellowstone's bison number from 3,000 to 4,500 in a given year.

The Buffalo Ranch is also a field campus for the very active Yellowstone Association Institute in partnership with the National Park Service. The association presents more than 500 courses annually, ranging from plants, geology, animals and history of the park and region.

During the winter months there are often wolf “spotting” trips out to Lamar Valley at sunup. Believe me, it's exciting to watch these animals in their wild natural environment.

In addition, there are many winter sights that are truly amazing; sights you're not apt to see anywhere else on earth. There's the Ice Fog…when conditions are just right, you'll view ice crystals floating through the air giving a fairyland like appearance of magic. Or, if you visit 136 square miles of ice covering Yellowstone Lake, you can witness a vast sheet of ice covering the lake. In places, the ice can be as much as two feet thick on the surface, while at the bottom the water may still be boiling

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

because of the underground thermal activity. Many of the park's rivers never freeze despite the cold surface temperatures because the river waters combine with geothermal features.

And, speaking of underground thermal activity, there's much more to Yellowstone than just what's on the surface. The 2.2 million acres of the park's abundance of geysers, hot springs, fumaroles and mud pots is more spectacular than at any other place on earth.

You see, Yellowstone is actually the world's largest active volcano, sitting atop an enormous hot spot of molten rock, the heat from which, powers all of the popping mud pots, geysers and hot springs. That pressure from below has lifted the park and some 300 miles of surrounding territory about 1700 feet higher than they would be otherwise.

But, I don't think you'll need to worry about a “big blow” when you visit. After all, Yellowstone averages one major eruption every 600,000 years.

If it's warmth you're seeking, head south. But, if you want to experience winter's natural majesty, beauty and solitude, this year take your family north and enjoy a Yellowstone adventure.

For information on lodging, dining and activities in Yellowstone, visit yellowstonenationalparklodges.com, or call toll free 1-866-GEYSERLAND. For more information about Yellowstone Association Institute's programs and courses, visit them on the web at YellowstoneAssociation.org or call 1-406-848-2400.

Photo of Grey Wolf by Bob Willis Bob Willis has spent his entire working lifetime as a travel journalist and photographer. Beginning his career with the Baltimore Sun papers and their television stations, he produced and hosted, for ten years, the nation's original TV travel program. His journeys have carried him to every continent, over 90 countries and “across the pond” more than 350 times. Bob and his wife Gloria (also a travel writer) call Washington County home and continue to travel whenever and wherever possible.

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