ON THE INSIDE POWER UP! BALLPARK LENDS ITSELF TO
Transcription
ON THE INSIDE POWER UP! BALLPARK LENDS ITSELF TO
BALLPARK LENDS ITSELF TO COMMUNITY EVENTS ON THE INSIDE Exclusive interview with our neighbor David Newell POWER UP! National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association Show is in full gear for 2016 2 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM CONTENTS spring/summer2016 Ballpark Lends Itself to Community Events 6 On The Inside 12 With Our Neighbor David Newell Main Street Farmers Market 18 Pavilion will be Newest Attraction as Market Reaches 13th Season Power Up! 24 National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association Show is in Full Gear for 2016 Community Volunteers Preserve Monongahela History 28 Two Local Theatres Set The Stage 32 Calendar 36 Upcoming Events for Spring and Summer Restoring History 42 Owner of Famous Century Inn Starts to Rebuild INSIDE WASHINGTON COUNTY PRODUCED BY: PUBLISHER Jeff M. Kotula Washington County Chamber of Commerce Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tara M. Gleason Washington County Chamber of Commerce MANAGING EDITOR Debbie A. Sims Washington County Chamber of Commerce ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Matt Miller Observer Publishing Company PRINTER Knepper Press 375 Southpointe Boulevard Suite 240 Canonsburg, PA 15317 washcochamber.com visitwashingtoncountypa.com © Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. 4 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM CREATIVE DIRECTOR/DESIGNER Mike Melone Melone Advertising Group PRODUCTION Paula Dudley Melone Advertising Group EDITORIAL Earl Bugaile Sylvia Cavallo Kristin Emery John E. Sacco Beth Seabright ART / PHOTOGRAPHY The Fred Rodgers Company Melone Advertising Group Observer Publishing Company Inside Washington County is published by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency. VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 5 T he crack of the bat and the chatter from the fielders of the Washington Wild Things and Pennsylvania Rebellion professional baseball and softball teams will not be the only sounds emanating from CONSOL Energy Park in North Franklin Township in Washington County this spring, summer and fall. The ballpark, built initially to be the home of the Frontier League’s Wild Things, has evolved into a multi-use facility over experience, whether it is a ball game, concert or something else. We want people to come, enjoy themselves and leave thinking, what a great place.” One of those people who thinks CONSOL Energy Park is a good place is Bridgete Kirwan, who is the head of the popular Washington Antiques Fair – which hosts shows the last Sunday of each month from March through October. Softball game hosted at CONSOL Energy Park By John E. Sacco the past 15 years, hosting area college and high school baseball teams, the WPIAL baseball championships, concerts, professional wrestling, youth athletic tournaments, camps – tryout and instructional – for professional, college-bound players and youth players, antique shows and many other activities which all enhance the value of the beautiful ballpark and Washington County. Kirwan said the antique fair has a loyal following from all over the county and it attracts people from outside the country and an occasional celebrity. “In essence, when the ballpark was built, we were bringing in the Wild Things,” said Christine Blaine, director of marketing and communications for the Wild Things and Rebellion. “But the thought all along was that the park could be a community asset.” “We have a big following,” Kirwan said. “And CONSOL Energy Park is a good fit. It is right off Interstate 70. The vendors come right into the parking lot and can set up and begin to sell their goods. We have a good relationship with the Wild Things and they are very cooperative and they know what we need. It has really been a lot of fun.” Blaine said keeping the ballpark open and providing entertainment is the goal of Stuart and Francine Williams, the managing partners of the organization. “It is important to the Williams family to utilize the ballpark for the community and to keep it open as many days out of the year as the weather will allow. The hope has always been, and continues to be, to add to the quality of life in Washington County. Beyond that, there also is an effort to make it a venue for others outside our county and community to enjoy an This will be Kirwan’s 38th season and 12th at CONSOL Energy Park. The fair was previously operated out of The Meadows for 26 years. But the construction of the casino prompted a move to a new venue. Kirwan reminds patrons that in March the show will be held the next-to-last Sunday of the month as Easter is the last Sunday of the month. Blaine acknowledges the antique fairs are very popular and they are good for the community and for many outside the area. She said the circuit that has been created through the 38 years allows Kirwan to see as many as 200 to 250 vendors each show. VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 7 Practice time for up and coming players While concerts and other events draw people to the park, baseball and softball continue to be compelling factors. perspective, this has been fantastic. We will do everything possible to meet their needs.” California University plays its home baseball games at the park. Trinity High School and a host of other high school teams play games at the site as well. Blaine added that youth tournaments, both baseball and softball, will be a focal point moving forward. Tim O’Malley, executive director of the WPIAL, said the games will return to CONSOL Energy Park the next few years. While he understands some adjustments will need to be made, he is hoping to keep the championship site as long as possible. “Our facility lends itself to it,” she added. “The youth tournaments have been on our radar. Washington County Tourism views youth tournaments as an untapped market for our hotel and visitor attraction efforts. We dipped our toes last year; this year we are going to go full force to make it happen.” “The ability for us to go there and hold the championship games is greatly appreciated,” O’Malley said. “It has served us well. It is the best baseball facility around for us to contest our championship games. The experience there is second to none. The access is great and the atmosphere and setting are perfect. They have the ability to accommodate the crowd. The park is intimate. It has just been a positive experience. Preliminarily, we will discuss what our needs will be going forward, whether it is three double-headers over three days or two triple-headers over two days. We will look at the dates and at their calendar and it will be figured out.” One of the most attractive and anticipated features is the WPIAL baseball championships, which are contested at CONSOL Energy Park. For the past several years, the WPIAL’s champion in four classifications has been crowned there. The title games will again be played there this year as part of two double-headers over two days. The current format will have to change in 2017 as the PIAA has expanded to six classifications in multiple sports, including baseball. Blaine said the Wild Things will do what is necessary to accommodate the WPIAL. “It has been a great partnership,” Blaine said. “We are always interested in young athletes. Players like coming to the park and playing for something so significant there. From our 8 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM Blaine said it is these types of events, including professional baseball and softball, which make the park so vital. “It is important to us to attract people to the facility,” she added. “That helps the community as a whole with people, from inside and outside the county, patronizing restaurants, shopping venues and hotels. The goal is to make it as attractive as we can to make it great for those who live, work and play in Washington County.” VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 9 10 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM ON THE INSIDE With DAVID NEWELL A.K.A. “MR. MCFEELY” By Kristin Emery Company: The Fred Rogers Company I f you grew up in Southwestern Pennsylvania, you know the name Mr. McFeely. Now, thanks to syndication, the Internet and video streaming services, people around the world do as well. Pittsburgh native David Newell spent his career playing the lovable deliveryman on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. “I guess you could call me emeritus,” he says. “I worked for the company beginning in 1967 until last year full-time. I still do Mr. McFeely appearances as well as speak to groups relating my years working with Fred Rogers.” Newell lives in O’Hara Township with his wife and is the father of three as well as grandfather to three. He recalls the creation of his signature role. “A mutual friend heard Fred had received funding by the Sears and Roebuck Company to expand Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood from a regional to a national program and set up an interview,” recalls Newell. “Fred added he had heard I had experience as an actor and wanted me to play the part of the delivery man. After about an hour he said, ‘You got the job!’ I was production assistant and Mr. McFeely. I thought I had a job for one year.” That was 1967 and Mr. McFeely is still delivering in the Neighborhood almost 50 years later. If you have ever wondered how the character’s name originated, McFeely is Fred Rogers’ middle name and his grandfather’s last name. “ One segment brought Mr. McFeely to what is now the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum in Arden in Washington County. Mr. McFeely’s trademark phrase is “Speedy delivery!” and generations grew up hearing it. That speed even inspired an episode of the show. “Fred wrote the majority of the scripts and thought of a lesson for children to learn to take their time,” remembers Newell. “Instead of dashing off to another delivery, Fred invited Mr. McFeely in to rest for a moment and take his time. McFeely then went on his way and that gave Fred a chance to talk to the viewers about taking time and to sing a song he wrote called I Like to Take My Time.” That episode started to grow Mr. McFeely’s role in the program. The next season, Rogers introduced McFeely’s house, wife, pets and hobbies, and one segment brought Mr. McFeely to what is now the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum in Arden in Washington County. Newell says that marked the first Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood visit to the museum in the early 1970's. ” David Newell as “Mr. McFeely” VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 13 The Neighborhood Trolley plays an important role on the show and Newell has an affinity for trolleys both in his acting role on the show and in real life. Newell remembers taking the trolley as a child to see movies with his grandfather. Mr. McFeely now appears at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum’s annual Parade of Trolleys which will take place June 25th this year. (Trolley parades will occur at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., Event admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $7 for children (ages 3 – 15). Ages 2 and under are free.) Newell says, “My connection with the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum began many years ago when Fred Rogers wrote a script where Mr. and Mrs. McFeely purchased their first phonograph. They went to the trolley stop and boarded one of trolleys from the museum's collection. Over the years, Fred wrote other segments that incorporated the museum into the storyline.” The museum inspired Rogers to write scripts that included trolleys. Newell adds, “I am so impressed not only how the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum has grown over the years, but also with the many volunteers who donate their time to save and restore historical trolleys from all over the country. They even have the original ‘Streetcar Named Desire’ in the collection.” He thinks it plays an important role in educating children about transportation and history. “Generations of children have seen the Neighborhood Trolley on the show and when they actually see one for real and have a chance to ride on it, hopefully, it will give them perspective on how transportation has changed over the years.” What does Newell credit for the enduring popularity of Mr. McFeely and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood? “The Internet and related media are able to make the show available for today's 14 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM lley Museum nnsylvania Tro Pe e th at ly ee Mr. McF families,” says Newell. “It helps Fred Rogers’ legacy carry on into newer generations. Of course, nostalgia is another factor. Parents loved the program as they were growing up and want to give their children the same love and enjoyment.” Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood is available on NetFlix, Amazon.com and PBSKids.org as well as Saturday and Sunday mornings on WQED-TV. Newell says he never envisioned playing Mr. McFeely for nearly 50 years but that he has loved every minute of it. “Being involved with the creation and production of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood has been a wonderful career,” he says. “I always looked forward to going to work each day to help Fred Rogers and the staff create a new program that would help introduce children to what Fred said was ‘a smorgasbord of possibilities’ in this world about education and learning.” VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 15 16 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 17 “ It is really a wonderful community spirit that has helped build this pavilion, and we are very excited and grateful for the community’s support. Suzanne Ewing participating in 2015 were among the original group that first laid out their tables and wares in the parking lot across from the Observer-Reporter in 2004. Those who have participated have encouraged more vendors to join, resulting in larger crowds of customers each year. Pavilion will be newest attraction as market reaches 13th season By Earl Bugaile Washington’s Main Street Farmers Market has been in operation for 12 years, and as the downtown attraction prepares for its 13th season, it will get an entire new look. A new pavilion is near completion and will protect the vendors and visitors from nature’s elements, as well as create a new identity for itself. “There has been a saying around Washington that when it is raining, it must be Thursday, and the Farmers Market is open,” said Suzanne Ewing, president of Main Street Farmers Market, Inc., who was one of the original organizers of the event that takes place every Thursday between the second week of May and the end of October. The new pavilion will be finished in time for the 2016 season and is being built through monies from the Washington County Local Share Account, Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency, City of 18 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM Washington, Washington & Jefferson College as well as support from foundations, businesses and individual donors. “It is really a wonderful community spirit that has helped build this pavilion, and we are very excited and grateful for the community’s support,” Ewing said. Larry Maggi, Chairman of the Washington County Board of Commissioners, also sees the pavilion as an accomplishment for partnerships in the community. “By working together with the city, county, Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency, Washington & Jefferson College and many other local investors, we have created a true showplace for the city and a tremendous attraction for the county,” Maggi commented. Despite rain and thundershowers on some of the Farmers Market days, the event as a whole has been a success for the vendors and shoppers. Several of the vendors “The vendors come back year after year because this market is a good place to sell, and they like the community,” Ewing said. “They get a lot of support at our market and it is good for their business. What has been interesting is that when we started the Main Street Farmer’s Market 13 years ago, there were not a lot of farmers markets around. Now there are farmers markets popping up all over the region, and the competition is greater for good farmers and vendors. We have been able to hold on to the vendors and they want to keep coming back. That is a testament to the success they have had at our Main Street Farmers Market.” Ewing said vendors have enjoyed participating in an event that takes place in a small town community, which allows them to get many repeat customers. “Vendors have made friends with the customers over the years. They enjoy the festival atmosphere with music, kids’ activities and nonprofits also participating. Our programming creates a real sense of community and they feel like they are welcome here, and they do a good business.” ” The new pavilion is expected to only enhance the Farmer’s Market experience for both the vendors and shoppers. “I think the vendors will be excited to have the shelter. “We will not have to worry about the wind whipping through and knocking down the vendors’ tents in bad weather,” Ewing said. “There will be electricity at each of the bays to make it more functional.” Some vendors have inquired if the season can be extended beyond October and into November and December. Others have indicated an interest in selling Christmas trees and wreaths, along with crafts. “We will have to see how it goes, and how the pavilion gets used, but all of us are very excited about the new possibilities the pavilion can bring to our market,” Ewing said. Washington Mayor Scott Putnam says he looks forward to the continued operation of the Main Street Farmers Market and sees it as an attraction that can be built upon for other events in the city. The addition of the pavilion in the parking lot makes the community a place where visitors will want to come and stay. “The Farmers Market has been a tremendous success,” Putnam said. “The pavilion will give the city a center for other events as well.” An artist’s rendering of the canopy covering the city parking lot on South Main Street in Washington, the site of Main Street Farmers Market. Putnam said events such as the Whiskey Rebellion Festival, car cruises, band concerts and other attractions can utilize the pavilion more than once a year and the success can spill over to the entire community. “The city will be responsible for maintenance costs of the pavilion, and we want to see it used,” Putnam said. “I would also hope that the Thursday Farmer’s Markets could turn into a ‘Thursday Night Lights’ type of event for all of Washington, where city businesses could stay open and give people who attend the market something to stay in town for.” The first phase of the pavilion will be ready when the Washington Farmer’s Market opens in May. The second phase, which includes office space and restrooms, will be completed as additional funds are raised. 20 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM Fresh produce at the Main Street Farmers Market in Washington VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 21 POWER UP! National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association Show is in full gear for 2016 By Earl Bugaile A group of five people from Washington County and its neighbors were captivated by the kind of machines used on farms and on industrial sites, and in 1980, formed the National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association to preserve this piece of history. They created their preservation site on five acres of land in Centerville, and now in Paddy Greene Steam Shovel High Lift its 36th year of existence, the organization continues to chug along. “They had a passion for the agricultural and industrial equipment and procedures that were used back in the day,” said Ted Swoger, marketing director and board member of the Association. “Many of them were involved in using the equipment for their livelihood.” 24 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM Every year, thousands of people are drawn to the site for the National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association annual show that takes place in May during National Pike Days. Many return in August to attend the Association’s summer show. The two annual events have drawn enthusiasts and their families from across the United States and Canada, and even some from other countries, as well. The Association continues to draw new visitors every year. It is fulfilling the dreams its founders had when they began assembling a wide range of equipment, from steam engines, steam shovels, and a wide range of gas and oil machinery that was once a mainstay of farms and industries everywhere. “They wanted to encourage and foster the knowledge that they had of farming and industrial equipment, the procedures used to operate the machines, and promote that with fellowship and good times between the young and the old,” Swoger said. The two annual shows have achieved those goals and more. The site, which has grown over the years from the original five acres to over 100 acres, allows space for visitors to get an up close look at the machinery in action, which captivates children and adults who have never had the opportunity to see how things were done in the day before modern equipment made it obsolete. One of the many attractions is a steam powered shovel that dates back to 1913. Some equipment is even older. Maintenance operations to keep the equipment running are always taking place. Swoger noted that because replacement parts are now harder to come by, crews are constantly looking for innovative ways to keep it operational. Today, there are more than 650 active members in the National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association. Members come from all over the tri-state area. Swoger said the show that is part of the National Pike Days held May 21-22 is free of charge, although the show in August VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 25 Coal Display has an admission fee. The summer show will be held August 12-14 and sometimes centers on a particular brand or type of equipment, which attracts crowds interested in that type of machinery. This year the show will feature equipment manufactured by Caterpillar. It will coincide with the company’s annual show, which Swoger said guarantees huge crowds. Although there are steam and gas museums and displays in the other areas of the country, Swoger said the National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association is unique, because it is one of only a few where visitors can see the equipment in operation. “It is touted as the largest digging show of its kind in the United States as acres of land at their site is devoted to steam shovels and digging,” he noted. In the agricultural area, visitors can watch plowing, planting and harvesting of wheat. The August show features demonstrations on threshing and bailing. “It gives a sense we are actually using farm equipment as well,” Swoger said. Various types of tractors and manufacturers are featured. 26 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM Swoger said that most of the operating equipment at the National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association is privately owned by its members. “They are responsible for maintaining their equipment and keep it running. We provide the venue that allows them to operate.” Much of the larger equipment is stored at the site, while other equipment is brought in to the shows. “Usually a week or two before the show, it is a pretty busy place, as members are getting their equipment ready,” Swoger said. Preparations are well underway for the show during the upcoming National Pike Festival, and Swoger said it should provide a variety of entertainment. “There is a lot for the whole family to see,” he said. The show will also include crafts, food kitchens and a Steam Shovel flea market, and the annual National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association show is pet friendly. Additional information about both the May and August shows is available at 724.785.6855. VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 27 COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS PRESERVE MONONGAHELA HISTORY By Sylvia Cavallo T errie and Jim Steiner are true examples of folks who believe that if you want something done, you should probably do it yourself. While the former operators of Freelance Graphics, a printing and design company in Monongahela, began to seek out answers to questions about the history of the city, Terrie and Jim utilized their digital knowledge and together with several other members of the Monongahela Area Historical Society, developed a free, self-guided Monongahela Historic District Walking Tour. This interactive brochure equipped with Quick Read (QR) codes provides users a comprehensive and descriptive overview of the city and some of its historic buildings. Brochure users simply download the free QR Reader application on their smart phones and scan the code next to each site in the brochure to bring up narrated videos which include old photos and additional history about former residents. While the tour is most complete with the QR codes, it can also be taken without them. “The walking tour was definitely born out of my own interest to know more,” said Terrie Steiner. “I spent eight months writing scripts and my husband put the videos together. Speech and theater students of California University of Pennsylvania provided the narration. Their work was very impressive and we were so pleased with the results.” “We are dedicated to our history and our present community.” Terrie and Jim Steiner Upcoming events include: Stroll, Shop N Sip May 7 A fundraising event that is open to the general public and designed to invite members of other communities and local residents to enjoy the ambiance of Monongahela while strolling the town to receive either merchandise or refreshments at each location. All tickets give participants a chance to win prizes. History Through a Woman’s Eyes Tour Weekend of June 11 A repeat of the successful first tour in the Living History Series presenting local historical events from the perspective of the woman who lived through them. Those attending will interact with the characters at different sites as they make history come to life. For more great events, visit monongahelahistoricalsociety.com Acheson House The Steiner’s are members of the Monongahela Area Historical Society Board of Directors, and have been highly instrumental in building the organization’s membership and planning events toward the funding of a museum to house its collections. They hope the facility will double as a community center where residents can gather to focus on energy, activity and pride in Monongahela. “Our events are essential to pay the bills and keep our museum open,” said Monongahela Area Historical Society President Susan Bowers. “The Board has been integral in our process to VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 29 Women’s History Tour Speakers chair activities and promote new programs while being supported by our members. Through our events, we have been able to draw visitors from surrounding areas to shop and recreate in our region. We provide an essential link to promote our mission statement of ‘Preserving the Past for the Future.’ These activities allow us to meet this goal. We provide education programs for local Scout groups and educational presentations at our monthly meetings. We are dedicated to our history and our present community.” Anawalt Underground Railroad For additional information, tickets to upcoming events, donations or membership, please visit monongahelahistoricalsociety.com or call 724.292.8247. Museum hours are Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or when volunteers are available. 30 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 31 Night” package which includes two tickets to a show, two drinks from their full-service bar and a dessert. By Beth Seabright Washington County is home to two exceptional local theaters: Little Lake Theater and Old Schoolhouse Players. Both theaters offer a wide range of shows and have been entertaining audiences for decades. Little Lake Theatre Celebrating its 68th season, Little Lake Theatre is a bright spot in the Washington County arts scene with its amazing performances, camps and educational programs. The theatre is open from May through December, and in those eight months, typically produces 15 shows. The theatre offers three different series to entertain audiences of all ages. The Main Stage series offers 11 plays each season, the Looking Glass series takes place in the summer targeting families and is based on beloved children’s books, and the Fall Family Matinee series also offers family friendly productions. Little Lake Theatre runs a dynamic season with plays continuously in rotation. Each show has three weeks of rehearsal, followed by three weeks of performances. Kevin Gallagher, board president of Little Lake Theatre, explained, “There is always great energy and activity at the Lake. At the same time one play is in production in the theatre, the next is being rehearsed in the barn. During intermission, it is not unusual to see audience members wander down to get a glimpse of a rehearsal in progress.” The actors are volunteers who primarily come from Washington or Allegheny Counties, though they have had actors come from 90 minutes away just to be in a particular show. “Since so many of our actors and crew are employed in ‘real-life’ professions during the day, it always inspires me to know how dedicated and giving they are of their time, focus and talent to create exceptional, engaging experiences for our audiences,” remarked Gallagher about his talented casts and crew. Always trying to develop new ideas to heighten the Little Lake Theatre experience for attendees, the theatre offers a “Date For children and teenagers with a passion for acting, Little Lake Theatre offers theater arts summer camps in July and August for ages 11 through 18. The camps provide an opportunity for area youth to get a behind the scenes glimpse at the theater world while being taught acting skills, and culminate with a showcase performance. Adults can also hone their acting skills through a ten-week course offered in the Fall called “I Can Do That Acting Course”. In the class, students are taught acting basics and are given an overview of everything that needs to take place to put on a successful show. is annually awarded to a high school senior or current college student who has performed or helped in a production and is pursuing a college degree in the performing arts. Old Schoolhouse Players also sponsors Venture Crew 1396, a part of the Boy Scouts of America. Through Venture Crew 1396, young men and women between the ages of 14 and 21 are able to learn a wide range of theater skills, from lighting to acting. The productions offered at this community theater are top notch. “Everyone works very hard to make productions as professional as we can,” said Turk. To learn more, please visit osptheater.com. Visit Little Lake Theatre’s website in Mid March to see the 2016 show schedule, including more details on the first performance of the season, Jeeves Intervenes. littlelaketheatre.org Old Schoolhouse Players Known as Broadway in the Country, Old Schoolhouse Players is a family of volunteers with a true love and passion for theater and the arts. Old Schoolhouse Players is located in the Bud Allison Memorial Auditorium in the Mt. Pleasant Township Community Center and has been producing shows since 1992. Old Schoolhouse Players offers both straight plays and musicals, and will be producing six shows in 2016. The first show of the year, The Charitable Sisterhood of the Second Trinity Victory Church will be on the stage the last weekend of February and the first weekend in March. Do not be surprised if you see your friends and neighbors on the stage. “Old Schoolhouse Players is truly a community theater,” said Carole Turk, director of public relations for the theater. The talented show casts bring together actors from Washington and Pittsburgh, all of whom have put their heart into rehearsing and putting on a show, after a full day of work. “Our actors come from a number of professions - teachers, doctors, lawyers, even local former politicians,” Turk said. Old Schoolhouse Players has an outstanding line up of performances for 2016: The Somewhat True Tales of Robin Hood Saturday Matinees in the month of April Children of Eden May 13 – 15, 20 – 22 Footloose July 15 – 17, 22 – 24 The Pink Panther Strikes Again October 14 – 16, 21 – 23 A Gift to Remember December 2 – 4, 9 – 11 The behind the scenes talent to put on the performances is remarkable as well. Volunteers collaborate to design scenery and sets, sew costumes and do whatever it takes to make a flawless production. For musicals, Old Schoolhouse Players brings in an orchestra to accompany the vocals in the show. With a focus on advancing the arts through our youth, Old Schoolhouse Players has developed a scholarship program that VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 33 34 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 35 CALENDAR SPRING / SUMMER march 2016 March 3 – 5 Winter Tales XIV Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu March 4 – 6 “The Charitable Sisterhood of the Second Trinity Victory Church” Old Schoolhouse Players Mt. Pleasant Twp. Community Center Hickory, PA osptheater.com March 7 – 13 Washington County Restaurant Week Participating Washington County Restaurants washingtoncountyrestaurantweek.com March 8 The Jazz Conspiracy Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu March 11 – 12 Washington County Ag Days Washington Crown Center Washington, PA shopwashingtoncrown.com March 12 A Taste of St. Patrick’s Day Montgomery Mansion Claysville, PA montgomerymansion.net March 12 St. Patrick’s Day Celebration River House Café Charleroi, PA riverhousecafe-pa.com March 16 Maple Sugarbrush Tour & Breakfast Mingo Creek County Park-Shelter 6 Finleyville, PA co.washington.pa.us March 18 Tres Lads Concert Bella Sera Canonsburg, PA bellaserapgh.com March 18 Symposium on 18th Century Life and Customs in Western Pennsylvania Washington & Jefferson College Chapel in Old Main Washington, PA bradfordhouse.org March 18 – 20, 25 – 26 Bunny Trolley Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Washington, PA pa-trolley.org 36 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM March 19 Multiphasic Blood Screening Monongahela Valley Hospital Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center Monongahela, PA monvalleyhospital.com March 19 Easter Egg Hunt Chess Park Monongahela, PA monongahelaareachamber.org March 19 St. Patrick's Day Tea Goody Two Shoes English Tea Room Monongahela, PA 724.258.2244 March 19 Easter Egg Hunt The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com March 19 Kid's Fest Washington Crown Center Washington, PA shopwashingtoncrown.com March 20 Palm Sunday Feast The Springhouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com March 20 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com March 20 Up Close and Personal: The WSO Chamber Ensemble Washington & Jefferson College P.C. Rossin Campus Center Ballroom Washington, PA washsym.org March 27 Easter Brunch Bella Sera Canonsburg, PA bellaserapgh.com april 2016 April 1 April Foolies Concert Church of the Covenant Washington, PA washingtonfestivalchorale.org April 1 W&J Jazz Ensemble Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu • 2016 April 2 Trail Station Season Opening McDonald Trail Station McDonald, PA mcdonaldtrailstation.com April 2, 9, 16, & 23 “The Somewhat True Tale of Robinhood” Old Schoolhouse Players Mt. Pleasant Twp. Community Center Hickory, PA osptheater.com April 6 Opening Day 2016 David Bradford House Washington, PA bradfordhouse.org April 6 “Mommy & Me” Morning Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh April 9 World Fighting Championship Boxing The Meadows Casino Event Center Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com April 9 Trout Stocking Ten Mile Creek Marianna, PA mariannaoutdoors.com April 9 – 10 Gourmet Food Truck Spring Round-Up Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh April 17 Spring Ham and Turkey Dinner The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com April 22 Spring Choral Concert Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu April 22 – 24 1st Annual Spring Splendor Gift and Craft Expo Washington Crown Center Washington, PA shopwashingtoncrown.com April 22 – 24 Auto Show The Meadows Casino Event Center Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com April 24 7th Annual Walk MS Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh April 24 Cement City Home and Walking Tour Donora Smog Museum Donora, PA donorahistoricalsociety.org April 24 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com April 9 – 10 A.R.H. Gun Show & Sales Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA arhsportshop.com April 24 W&J Wind Ensemble Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu April 10 Underground Railroad in Washington County West Middletown, PA WashCoLandmarks.com April 26 Election Day Bake & Soup Sale McDonald Trail Station McDonald, PA mcdonaldtrailstation.com April 14 – 16 World Premier: Consider the Circle Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu April 27 Broadway's Next H!T Musical Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu April 15 Chefs for CASA Bella Sera Canonsburg, PA casawashingtoncounty.org April 15 – 17 Spring Open House Shops of Scenery Hill Scenery Hill, PA 724.945.5400 April 27 Colorectal Cancer Education/Screening Monongahela Valley Hospital Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center Monongahela, PA monvalleyhospital.com April 29 No Bad Juju Concert Bella Sera Canonsburg, PA bellaserapgh.com May 13 Mini Golf Outing Red Carpet Mini Golf Canonsburg, PA northstrabanetwp.com May 27 – 30 Memorial Day Sidewalk Sale Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh June 11 Belmont & BJ Thomas Concert The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com April 30 Murder Mystery Dinner Show Montgomery Mansion Claysville, PA montgomerymansion.net May 13 Dierks Bentley with Randy Houser and Cam First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com May 28 Farm Heritage Day The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com June 17 Campfire Jam Night Mingo Creek County Park-Shelter 4 Finleyville, PA co.washington.pa.us May 28 – 29 Washington County Food Truck Festival The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com June 18 World Fighting Championship Boxing The Meadows Casino Event Center Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com April 30 Marianna Canoe Race Marianna, PA mariannaoutdoor.com may 2016 May 1 Opening Day 2016 Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village Avella, PA heinzhistorycenter.org May 1 Stroll, Shop N Sip Monongahela Area Historical Society Monongahela, PA monongahelahistoricalsociety.com May 1 – 8 Mothers Day Treat Montgomery Mansion Claysville, PA montgomerymansion.net May 7 Derby on the Apron The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com May 7 MARO Antique Appraisal Monongahela Area Library Monongahela, PA facebook.com/MonongahelaAreaRev italizationCorporationMarc May 7 We Will Rock You! Washington Symphony Orchestra Trinity High School Washington, PA washsym.org May 8 Mother's Day Bella Sera Canonsburg, PA bellaserapgh.com May 8 Mother's Day BBQ The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com May 13 Music Faculty Showcase Recital Washington & Jefferson College Olin Fine Arts Center Washington, PA washjeff.edu May 13 – 14 Western PA Trolley Meet Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Washington, PA pa-trolley.org May 13 - 15, 20 – 22 “Children of Eden” Old Schoolhouse Players Mt. Pleasant Twp. Community Center Hickory, PA osptheater.com May 14 King of the Cage The Meadows Casino Event Center Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com May 20 Grillin' & Swillin' Bella Sera Canonsburg, PA bellaserapgh.com May 20 - 22 Wild Things Home Opener CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonwildthings.com May 21 Monongahela Pooch Parade Chess Park Monongahela, PA facebook.com/MonongahelaArea RevitalizationCorporationMarc/ May 21 Preakness The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com May 21 – 22 National Pike Festival Heritage Days David Bradford House Washington, PA bradfordhouse.org May 29 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com June 18 20th Annual Atlatl Competition Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village Avella, PA heinzhistorycenter.org May 30 Memorial Day BBQ The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com June 18 Community Celebration Day North Strabane Municipal Park Canonsburg, PA northstrabanetwp.com june 2016 June 18 – 19 A.R.H. Gun Show & Sales Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA arhsportshop.com June 3 – 4 All-Clad Factory Sale Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA all-clad.com June 19 Father’s Day Steak Fry & Chicken BBQ The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com June 4 National Trail Day Fun Walk and Pancake Breakfast McDonald Trail Station McDonald, PA mcdonaldtrailstation.com June 24 Movie in the Park Cecil Park Cecil, PA ceciltownship-pa.gov June 4 Pickin & Grining Montgomery Mansion Claysville, PA montgomerymansion.net June 25 Mr. McFeely’s Parade of Trolleys Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Washington, PA pa-trolley.org June 4 Fleatigue on the Mon New Eagle thru Monongahela monongahelaareachamber.org June 25 Peters Township Community Day Peterswood Park Venetia, PA peterstownship.com June 4 Touch-a-Truck Cecil Park Cecil, PA ceciltownship-pa.gov May 21 – 22 43rd Annual National Road Festival Washington, PA nationalroadpa.org June 5 Rebellion Home Opener CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA parebellion.com May 21 – 22 National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association Show Centerville, PA nationalpike.com June 25 Insider Tour of Meadowcroft Rockshelter Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village Avella, PA heinzhistorycenter.org June 10 Auxiliary Strawberry Festival Monongahela Valley Hospital Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center Monongahela, PA monvalleyhospital.com June 26 Darius Rucker with Dan + Shay and Michael Ray First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com May 26 “A Taste of the Orient” Wine Dinner River House Café Monongahela, PA riverhousecafe-pa.com June 10 Dixie Chicks First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 37 June 26 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com July 10 Classics on Main Car Show Downtown Washington Washington, PA whiskeyrebellionfestival.com July 29 Twilight Trail Walk St. Petersburg Center McMurray, PA montourtrail.org June 26 Classic Car Show Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Washington, PA pa-trolley.org July 15 – 17, 22 – 24 “Footloose” Old Schoolhouse Players Mt. Pleasant Twp. Community Center Hickory, PA osptheater.com July 30 Marcellus Mania Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA washingtonfair.org June 30 Bentleyville Borough Bi-Centennial Bentleyville Richardson Park Bentleyville, PA 724.239.2112 july 2016 July 1 – 4 4th of July Sidewalk Sale Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh July 16 Journey and The Doobie Brothers with Dave Mason First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com July 16 Marianna Outdoorsmen Association 2nd Annual Catfish Derby Marianna, PA mariannaoutdoor.com July 17 Movie Night North Strabane Township Canonsburg, PA northstrabanetwp.com July 2 – 3 Meadowcroft Independence Day Celebration Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village Avella, PA heinzhistorycenter.org July 21 Heart, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and Cheap Trick First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com July 2 – 9 (Closed July 4) McSummerfest 2016 Heritage Park McDonald, PA mcdonaldfire.com July 22 – 23 Luke Bryan with Little Big Town and Dustin Lynch First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com July 4 July 4th Parade North Strabane Township Canonsburg, PA northstrabanetwp.com July 4 Independence Day BBQ The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com July 4 Three Ridges 4th of July Celebration West Alexander Fairgrounds West Alexander, PA westalexfair.com July 4 Fourth of July Celebration Monongahela Aquatorium Monongahela, PA monongahelaareachamber.org July 7 – 10 Whiskey Rebellion Festival Downtown Washington Washington, PA whiskeyrebellionfestival.com July 9 & 16 Touch-a-Truck Peterswood Park Venetia, PA peterstownship.com 38 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM July 23 Adios Eliminations The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com July 23 Movie in the Park Cecil Park Cecil, PA ceciltownship-pa.gov July 23 – 24 41st Annual Duncan Miller Glass Show & Sale Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA washingtonfair.org July 26 Flea'tique Flea Market McDonald Trail Station McDonald, PA mcdonaldtrailstation.com July 29 Whiskey Rebellion Dinner Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe Canonsburg, PA whiskeyrebellionfestival.com July 30 50th Adios and King of the Cage The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com July 31 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com august 2016 August 13 – 20 Open House Underground Railroad Display Washington County Fairgrounds John White House Washington, PA WashCoLandmarks.com August 13 – 20 Washington County Agricultural Fair Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA washingtonfair.org August 19 Movie in the Park Cecil Park Cecil, PA ceciltownship-pa.gov August 20 Murder Mystery Dinner Show Montgomery Mansion Claysville, PA montgomerymansion.net August 20 Peters Township Fishing Derby Peters Lake Park Canonsburg, PA peterstownship.com August 2 Josh Groban with Sarah McLachlan First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com August 20 Brantley Gilbert with Justin Moore and Colt Ford First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com August 5 Brad Paisley with Tyler Farr and Maddie & Tae First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com August 20 – 21 Corks & Kegs Festival The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com August 6 – 7 Washington Wine, Jazz, & Pops Festival VI North Strabane Municipal Park Canonsburg, PA winejazzpops.org August 11 Campfire Jam Night Cross Creek County Park-Shelter 3 Avella, PA co.washington.pa.us August 12 – 14 36th Annual National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association Show Centerville, PA nationalpike.com August 21 Movie Night North Strabane Township Canonsburg, PA northstrabanetwp.com August 21 Cruisin Classics Car Show Cecil Park Cecil, PA ceciltownship-pa.gov August 27 Florida Georgia Line with Cole Swindell, The Cadillac Three and Kane Brown First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com August 13 Toby Keith First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com August 27 World Fighting Championship Boxing The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com August 13 – 14 KidsSTYLE Back-To-School Fun Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh August 28 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com Visit WashingtonCountyPA.com for a complete listing of Washington County events and updates. september 2016 September 2 – 5 Labor Day Sidewalk Sale Tanger Outlets Washington, PA tangeroutlet.com/pittsburgh September 5 Labor Day BBQ The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com September 5 – 10 West Alexander Fair West Alexander Fairgrounds West Alexander, PA westalexfair.com September 9 Rascal Flatts with Kelsea Ballerini First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com September 11 Grandparents Day Ham & Turkey Dinner The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com September 11 Trucks, Tractors & Trolleys Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Washington, PA pa-trolley.org September 16 Annual Wine Event David Bradford House Washington, PA bradfordhouse.org September 16 – 18 Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest Downtown Canonsburg Canonsburg, PA canonchamber.com September 17 King of the Cage The Meadows Casino Washington, PA meadowsgaming.com September 22 Senior Expo Washington Crown Center Washington, PA shopwashingtoncrown.com September 23 – 25 1st Great Pumpkin Weekend The SpringHouse Burgettstown, PA springhousemarket.com September 24 Jason Aldean with Thomas Rhett and A Thousand Horses First Niagara Pavilion Burgettstown, PA livenation.com September 24 – 25 American Indian Heritage Weekend Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village Avella, PA heinzhistorycenter.org September 24 – 25 29th Annual Cecil Township Fall Festival Cecil Park Cecil, PA ceciltownship-pa.gov September 24 – 25 A.R.H. Gun Show & Sales Washington County Fairgrounds Washington, PA arhsportshop.com September 25 Sunday 4H Hog Roasts The SpringHouse Washington, PA springhousemarket.com September 25 Washington Antiques Fair CONSOL Energy Park Washington, PA washingtonantiquesfair.com September 28 Prostate Screening and Education Program Monongahela Valley Hospital Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center Monongahela, PA monvalleyhospital.com September 30 Auxiliary Apple/Fall Festival Monongahela Valley Hospital Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center Monongahela, PA monvalleyhospital.com 40 WASHCOCHAMBER.COM VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 41 Owner of Famous Century Inn Starts to Rebuild By Kristin Emery It has been just over six months since Megin Harrington’s world went up in flames. When the historic Century Inn caught fire August 18th, the place Harrington called her home and her life’s work was reduced to rubble. She escaped the nighttime blaze with only the clothes on her back and one priceless item: the Whiskey Rebellion flag. It is the only such flag documented to have survived from the 1790s Western Pennsylvania uprising over the federal excise tax on distilled spirits. Gone in minutes were her antiques, family photographs and livelihood. Harrington and her son were not the only ones to feel the loss since the Century Inn is travelers were rather famous, such as U.S. Presidents Andrew Jackson and James K. Polk and the Revolutionary War’s Marquis de Lafayette. Through the years, the property changed hands and was eventually owned by Harrington’s in-laws before she and her late husband took the reins. The Century Inn is considered a local treasure and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. so revered by Washington County residents. “It has been such a loss for so many people,” she says. “I remember the night of the fire, some of the firefighters were crying. They had either gotten married here or had christenings here. It means a lot to our area.” rooms. Harrington says she wants to maintain the same historic, quaint aura the Century Inn has always had. “We want to keep the same footprint, the same feel of the inn,” she says. “I would like to make the guest rooms a little larger, but we will see.” Harrington does not have a timeline yet, but plans are starting to take shape and she looks forward to once again hosting overnight guests as well as diners for lunch, dinner and special occasions. Despite such adversity, Harrington remains surprisingly positive. “It has been wonderful. We have had people say they will donate things to us because we need to replace the antiques and artwork,” she says. “It just breaks my heart. People have been very generous and we are going to need a lot of help.” That strong community support along with letters from former guests from across the country has helped her through a trying time. “You do not realize how you affect an area,” Harrington says. “We have had people from all over the world write to me and say how sorry they are. It has been a positive experience, if there is such a thing. When we rebuild it will be stronger and safer.” That area of Scenery Hill along Route 40 in Washington County has been crucial in lending Harrington support and helping with her plans to rebuild. Most of the 227-year-old inn’s structure was destroyed by the fire. Yet the oldest part—the front stone facade built in 1788—remains stalwart. Harrington says, “We had the stone tested after the fire to make sure its integrity was not compromised and everyone agrees it was not.” That was the only piece of information she needed to know before deciding to rebuild. “All of the back has been removed and now we are ready for a fresh start,” she adds. The Century Inn opened in 1794 as a place to host stage coach travelers along the National Road (Route 40). Some of those Since the fire, Harrington has been living nearby and has chosen a project manager to oversee rebuilding. Next comes choosing an architect and drawing up plans for the guest rooms and dining VISITWASHINGTONCOUNTYPA.COM 43