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Washington LIVING IN

COUNT Y

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026

Historic theater the star of Washington County’s cultural reawakening

West Alexander cafe celebrates community, rich history

Caring for livestock takes a village of support in Washington County

The Crafty Alpaca: Turning skeins of yarn into quality wearables

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY

CONTENTS

West Alexander cafe celebrates community, rich history

Historic theater the star of Washington County’s cultural reawakening

Caring for livestock takes a village of support in Washington County

Splash into Frank Sarris Public Library programming

The Crafty Alpaca: Turning skeins of yarn into quality wearables

CanonMcMillan hosts first “Canon McCarnival”

NICHE PUBLICATION

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 122 South Main Street Washington, PA 15301 724.222.2200 EDITOR

Canon McMillan moves to Chromebook-free learning

FROM THE EDITOR

STARTING WITHOUT KNOWING

I just started something new. I was incredibly, irrationally nervous about it. I had never done anything close to this before, and I had no framework for how it might go. How might I feel? What’s going to happen? Where will I be in a year as a result?

Trista Thurston tthurston@observer-reporter.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Carole DeAngelo GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Eric Tomlinson CONTRIBUTORS

April Barbe Katherine Mansfield Trista Thurston Dave Zuchowski

On the cover

I am sure everyone can relate to these feelings in one way or another. We’ve all had a first day of school or an unknown medical procedure. We’ve all, if we drive, driven somewhere we’ve never visited before. What’s parking going to be like? Is the area safe? And of course, there are life’s biggest moments, like job loss, death of a loved one, moving and divorce. If we’ve never faced these before, they can feel insurmountable. Impossible. In the case of a huge loss, like we might never recover. On the first day, someone told me that at one point, it was everyone’s first day, and that brought me quite a bit of comfort. Everyone has walked this path in their own way. Sometimes it can feel like I am moving through life as if in an unending fog. Things feel just out of reach. It’s something I work on, but I keep going. Much of life can be spent navigating uncertainty. We usually don’t get clarity before taking the next step. We make decisions with the information we have, trust ourselves as best we can and hope the path becomes easier as we move forward. Sometimes it does. Sometimes it doesn’t. We step forward through the fog, sometimes not even being able to see where our foot will land. But even then, we learn something in the process. Looking back, rarely have things unfolded exactly as I imagined they would, for better or worse. If you’re in a season of uncertainty yourself, I hope you’ll remember that you don’t have to have everything figured out today. The next step is oftentimes enough. Then the one after that. Progress isn’t always dramatic or obvious. It rarely is. Sometimes it’s simply showing up. As for me, I’m still at the beginning. I don’t know exactly where this new endeavor will lead, but that’s alright. Right now, I’m focusing on being present, staying curious and taking things one day at a time. That’s enough. As always, thanks so much for reading. If you have ideas or suggestions, I would love to hear from you. Email me at tthurston@observer-reporter.com or call me at 724-2222200 ext. 2421. Take care, and see you in the next edition. 2 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

Editor

Courtesy of the Canonsburg Educational and Cultural Institute

Mock-up image depicting the exterior of the Canon Theater in Canonsburg, which will open in fall 2026.

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West Alexander cafe celebrates community, rich history By April Barbe wners of The Gretna Green Cafe in West Alexander, Ashley Lemasters and Bridgette Plants, have one main goal: to get people to take pride in their community and fellowship with one another, according to Lemasters. Lemasters said West Alexander is rich in history as it sits on Old National Pike, where The Gretna Green Cafe is located. But Gretna Green’s history expands back to the mid-1700s to a town in Scotland with the same moniker. According to Lemasters, Gretna Green, Scotland, was known for its runaway marriages, which began in 1753, when an act was passed in England requiring parental consent for marriages if either person was under 21. The act did not apply to Scotland, where it was still possible to marry at 16, with or without parental consent. “As a result, many young couples fled England to get married in Scotland, often arriving first at Gretna Green. The blacksmith’s shop in Gretna Green became the focal point of the marriage trade, with the blacksmith’s anvil symbolizing these runaway weddings. Just as metals were joined together in the heat of the fire, couples were joined in marriage in the heat of the moment,” Lemasters said. She said that West Alexander, Pennsylvania, adopted the name “Gretna Green” from Scotland because of its reputation for runaway marriages. At the time, Pennsylvania’s lack of marriage restrictions led couples to cross the state line into the first town, West Alexander. An 1834 account states that the ceremony was customarily performed in a blacksmith’s shop, where no one would look for the couple. Between 1835 and 1885, the year the Pennsylvania marriage license law was enacted, over 5,000 eloping couples were married in West Alexander. All marriages were performed by Justices of the Peace and clergy members of the town, she added. According to Lemasters, the most recorded by a single person was Justice of the Peace Joseph F. Mayes, who, during his official career to September 1881, joined 1,918 couples in wedlock. The Gretna Green Cafe opened on May 29, 2025, and is owner-operated. The cafe was started by Carl “Buzz” and Kathleen Miller to provide a community spot on Old National Road in West Alexander for residents to gather and fellowship together. “It was their intention to start the

6 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

cafe and hand it off to others who have the same passion. We share the space with the non-profit WAACOS (West Alexander Area Community Organization for Services). In February 2026, my sister Bridgette Plants and I joined as part-owners,” Lemasters said. The sisters grew up in West Alexander, helping their parents operate a personal care home on Main Street. The cafe started as a specialty coffee and homemade breakfast shop, but Lemasters and Plants have since expanded the menu. Now, customers can enjoy lunch items including pizza, wings, smash burgers and ice cream. “Our most popular items are our Taco Tuesdays, when we have a variety of taco items. By far, the most popular is our taco salad,” she said. Customers may also tap their feet to the cafe’s original song by Richie Hunt. “Bagpipes calling, coffee’s on, morning starts before the dawn. Freshbaked treats and laughter, too — Gretna Green is calling you!” The Gretna Green Cafe also offers shelves for community members to sell crafts, with a variety of homemade items available. Plus, they encourage folks to bring in their wedding photos for display, celebrating the community’s marriage history. To help celebrate, the non-profit WAACOS holds the Gretna Green Festival on Main Street on the first Saturday of August every year. The festival is on Aug. 1 this year. It included a children’s area in memory of Mike Smith, a car and motorcycle show in memory of Lemasters’ father, Buck Lemasters, and many events celebrating the community’s heritage. The cafe was also be open during the festival. For more about the festival, visit its Facebook page, The Gretna Green Festival. “(It’s) neighbors reacquainting themselves with each other, developing lifelong neighborly relationships that will carry on for generations to come,” Lemasters said. “Breakfast, lunch or wedding day, there’s always joy at Gretna Green Cafe!” The cafe is located at 130C Main Street, and hours are 5:30 am. to 7 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Saturday. The cafe is also available to rent for small events. For more information, visit thegretnagreencafe.com

Caring for livestock takes a village of support in Washington County By Trista Thurston or farmers, caring for livestock means more than just feeding them daily. Keeping animals healthy requires constant attention, especially with unpredictable weather, rising costs and emergencies. Farmers often rely on help from veterinarians, agricultural groups and emergency responders. As part of our ongoing series on animal welfare, local agricultural leaders say that Washington County farmers have access to many resources to help them care for their animals before small problems become bigger ones. “The biggest thing is having a good relationship with a vet,” said Wayne Hunnell, secretary of the Washington County Agricultural Fair board. “Ultimately, at the end of the day, it comes back to really knowing a good vet.” Hunnell explained that many of the health problems farmers face stem from factors they can’t control. For example, wet spring weather can make calving season muddy, which raises the risk of disease. Stress from weaning, moving animals or changes in routine can also make animals more susceptible to illness. Besides daily animal care, farmers also have to watch out for diseases like avian influenza and swine illnesses. These risks have led to stricter safety measures on farms in recent years. “It has gotten harder,” Hunnell said. “There is more out there, more to watch for, and there’s a lot more control over how you handle the animals.” Because of these challenges, he said, farmers should connect not just with veterinarians but also with groups like the Washington County Cattlemen’s Association and local pork producers associations. These organizations can link farmers to educational programs and experienced producers. Farmers can also get help from Penn State Extension and the Washington County Conservation District. These groups offer advice on pasture management, animal care and conservation. The conservation district also runs programs to share costs, rent equipment and provide other resources to help farmers improve their work. When emergencies happen, another group is ready to step in and help. The Washington County Animal Response Team is the county’s emergency group for animals. The group assists with things like livestock trailer accidents, animals stuck in dangerous places and other emergencies involving both pets and farm animals. “We’re basically 911 for animals,” said Ed Childers, coordinator of the Washington County Animal Response Team. Childers said most of the team’s calls are about horses, and they respond to more than three dozen incidents each year. In bigger disasters, team members also help as part of the Pennsylvania Animal Response Team, supporting communities throughout the state.

Childers emphasized that the team does not replace veterinary care. “We’re not there to replace a professional like a veterinarian,” he said. “Everything we do is at the direction of a veterinarian.” Farmers also face financial pressures that can affect how they run their farms, not just animal health concerns. Gary Woodruff, who is part of the Washington County Farm Bureau, said that higher prices for fertilizer, fuel and feed are making it even harder for farmers to make a profit. “Just because you have the assets doesn’t mean you have the cash,” Woodruff said. “You’ve got to balance the budget between what you can do and what you can’t do to try to make that living on the farm.” Unpredictable weather makes things even more challenging. Janie Deemer, another member of the Washington County Farm Bureau, said that this spring’s warm weather, followed by a hard frost, hurt crop growth. She also said that more deer are damaging corn, soybean and vegetable fields across the county. She said that these financial pressures make support networks even more important. The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau recently introduced a mental health hotline for farmers, providing around-the-clock support for producers facing stress and other challenges. Deemer said local farmers also rely on one another, often volunteering to help neighbors when someone faces illness or other hardships. Most livestock owners are committed to providing quality care, but both Hunnell and Deemer said the public sometimes misunderstands what they see. For example, a horse in a dry lot might be under a vet’s care or on a special feeding plan. Older animals can also lose weight naturally, even when they are well cared for. At the same time, Deemer encouraged people not to ignore situations that truly worry them. “Don’t be afraid. Don’t hesitate when you see an animal that concerns you,” she said. She said that reporting a concern lets trained professionals decide if help is needed and can protect animals if there is neglect. Washington Area Humane Society police officer Gretchen Grasser handles several farm-related calls. As one of the only humane society police officers in the county, she’s one of the only people equipped to handle cases of neglect and abuse. For Hunnell, the story of animal welfare comes down to preparation and partnership. He said that farmers have a strong support network — veterinarians, agricultural groups, emergency responders and helpful neighbors — all working together to keep both animals and the people who care for them healthy.

AUGUST 6, 2026 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | 7

The Crafty Alpaca Turning skeins of yarn into quality wearables

Story and photos by Dave Zuchowski ary Burns said she always wanted to live on a farm. Eventually, her dream came true one day while she and her husband, Richard, were living in Monroeville, when they decided they needed more space for themselves and their two children, Sam and Em. “We bought a 22-acre farm in Avella and started to research what type of farming we wanted to get into,” Mary said. When they discovered alpacas at a local arts and crafts fair, they knew they had found their answer. For the past 22 years, they have been operators of The Crafty Alpaca, whose current menagerie includes 14 alpacas and one llama. “Sam and Em were around 5 and 4 years old at the time, and one of the reasons we chose to raise alpacas is that they are gentle animals, they love children and we knew the children would be safe with them,” she said. Mary taught middle and high school biology and science for the Franklin Regional School District for six years and still works as a substitute teacher for Burgettstown. Richard is employed full-time as a physician’s assistant at Sewickley Hospital. They both made the transition into another endeavor, raising alpacas, that has since proved a labor of love. At one time, their herd included 30 alpacas. Mary added the llama later, “in a moment of weakness,” because she found him cute and connected with him. Now, he serves as an educational tool, showing farm visitors the difference between an alpaca and a llama. “I sometimes take my alpacas on the road to places like libraries for speaking engagements,” she continued. “This is something I’d like to expand and do more of in the near future.” At the farm, the alpacas are raised strictly for their fleece, not for meat. The animals get to roam freely on six acres and come and go from two barns and one big shelter. The males and females are kept in separate herds because the Burnses are not interested in selling babies. “In the beginning, we did some breeding, but felt we didn’t want to be part of an alpaca overpopulation problem,” Mary said. “We also wanted to find them good homes but ran into some bad experiences early on. Then, too, we get attached to the animals and hate to see them leave the farm.” In addition to turning their animals’ fleece into quality garments, the Burnses open their farm to visitors for unique animal experiences and educational opportunities. A 20-minute meet-and-greet tour gives visitors a chance to pet, feed and take photos and videos of the animals. They can also watch a spinning-wheel demonstration and shop the farm store, which is also open to shoppers who don’t take the tour. “We invite people to come to the farm to experience the animals, farm life and the outdoors,” Mary said. There is no age limit or limit on the number of people who can take a tour. Individuals are welcome, as are groups and visitors with special needs. The farm is open year-round by appointment, which can be made either by phone at 724-263-8293 or online at thecraftyalpaca. com. Facebook is also a great place to follow for more information. In April, a group of shearers who travel the U.S. stop by to harvest the animals’ fleece. Mary says they can shear them all in an hour Mary Burns in her gift shop and a half. On average, she said, five pounds of

8 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

fleece can be harvested from a single animal, although that may vary from two to ten pounds, depending on the alpaca. After shearing, the fleece is skirted to remove debris, then carded to straighten the locks and make it ready for spinning. After it’s spun, the yarn is washed, and some of it is dyed. “When we started raising alpacas, I had to learn how to spin, so I took a one-day class to learn the basics,” Mary said. “After buying a wheel on eBay, I basically taught myself the rest.” Fortunately, Mary’s mother, Rose Mastroianni of Whitehall, is a knitter and turns out one-of-a-kind scarves, fingerless gloves, hats and headbands. The farm store inventory is also stocked with sweaters, socks and outerwear imported from Peru. Mary claims alpaca fleece is water-repellent, odorless, super-soft and so hypoallergenic that you can wear it against your skin. She also said it’s lightweight, durable and warmer than wool. “Some people equate alpaca products with winter,” she said. “But you can also wear lightweight ankle and crew socks in the warmer months, although our heavyweight socks are great for winter hiking and skiing.” One interesting accessory, dryer balls, can replace fabric softeners and dryer sheets. Cats also seem to love the shop’s cat toys. While the alpacas’ main food supply is grass, their diet is supplemented by hay bought from a friend in Burgettstown. In the winter, the Burnses add a special alpaca food to their diet. One misconception the public holds that Mary wants to clarify is the belief that alpacas spit at people. “Spitting is actually a form of communication among alpacas,” she said. “They are very skittish animals and rarely spit at people.” After 22 years in the business, Mary said she still enjoys raising alpacas. “I love the animals and like meeting people and sharing the alpaca experience with them,” she said. “On the farm, I wear many hats, and every day on the farm is new and different.” The Crafty Alpaca is located at 115 Rea Road in Avella. For tours and more information, phone 724-263-8293 or visit the website thecraftyalpaca.com. One of the alpacas

Richard Burns leads some alpacas with a bucket of pellet food

Mary Burns feeds an alpaca from her hand

Mary Burns spins alpaca hair into yarn

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Historic theater the star of Washington County’s cultural reawakening Story and photos by Katherine Mansfield or years, it was the stage for shows. Now, it’s the main character in a brand-new story. The shows began when an auditorium took the stage atop a hill in the heart of Canonsburg. The year was 1931, and the building was constructed as part of Providence Hall, on what was then Jefferson College’s campus. That campus became Canon-McMillan Junior High School in 1967. In 1983, the four-story, 150,000-square-foot building next door was renovated and renamed Canonsburg Middle School; the auditorium, its theater. In October, the curtains will rise, and the auditorium will step into the limelight, not so much a remake as a retelling, when it opens as Canon Theater — the first phase of an ambitious cultural center project by Canonsburg Educational and Cultural Institute. Canon Theater’s showrunners: Paul and Lisa Scarmazzi, Canonsburg natives who serve as CECI’s executive vice president/secretary and vice president/treasurer, respectively. “There’s so much stuff we could do here,” said Lisa enthusiastically, pointing to a jumbo screen hanging above and ticking off events that might unfold onstage, including movie matinees for older adults and movie nights for the younger crowd; concerts of all sorts; and plays and musical productions. Indeed, for decades, student performers got their start on the storied stage inside the 860-seat theater. Every fall, teachers escorted students across the pavement to watch the student cast and crew put on a play; in springtime, audiences filed into the auditorium for the musical. Cast and crew took their final bow on the historic stage on April 1, 2022, the closing night of “High School Musical Jr.” Since then, the theater has

sat empty, waiting for its next chapter. The campus — including the auditorium and adjacent school building, complete with classrooms, a cafeteria, a swimming pool and gymnasium — closed at the end of 2024, and students started the second half of the 2024-2025 school year on a new campus at Big Mac Lane, near the Canonsburg Hospital. Soon after, the campus was listed for sale. CECI was founded in 2021 to strengthen the community by providing the greater Washington County region with educational and cultural opportunities, as well as health and wellness resources. Its first move: Acquiring the 5.6 acres of land — including the historic Jefferson College log cabin and auditorium — that had for decades served as Canonsburg Middle School’s campus. The vision: transforming the former school building into a community space that offers the aforementioned health and wellness resources, teaching and learning opportunities, creative and art spaces, and more. “We will be Washington County’s cultural center,” said Lisa Scarmazzi, who said the school building is slated to open in 2027. “There’s never been a cultural center in the area.” Though it wasn’t intended, reimagining the old middle school auditorium into the region’s premier entertainment venue quickly became “phase one.” “The whole mission of Canonsburg Educational and Cultural Institute is wonderful, but it’s as long as its name is, too. It takes some time to understand because we rest on a couple of pillars. One’s community, one’s culture, one’s education, and then there’s stuff below that. Man, it’s a long elevator pitch,” laughed Paul Scarmazzi. “The money we had to put into it, while $2.1 million isn’t chump change, it pales in comparison to what we have to put next door. It was digestible. And it was really

“This space,” said Paul Scarmazzi, “has character, and it has good bones.” Scarmazzi and his wife, Lisa Scarmazzi, spearheaded renovations to the former Canonsburg Middle School auditorium, which will open to the Washington County region on Oct. 24 as Canon Theater. The theater is phase one of the Canonsburg Educational and Cultural Institute’s cultural center project.

14 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

easy to articulate what this is and what it will be. So it just became phase one just as a result of hard work and talking and thinking and then just taking advantage of the opportunity that was handed to us.” The Scarmazzis aren’t new to making things new. As the former economic director for Canonsburg, Lisa toiled tirelessly to revitalize the borough’s downtown, leading the charge in grant applications for facade makeovers, scoring a partnership with Hallmark to transform the town into a storybook during the holidays, bringing in businesses like Chicco Baccello and All About Books and Good Goods — a thriving downtown the borough hadn’t seen since the 1990s. Meanwhile, Paul, a career contractor, has decades of construction experience. The couple spearheaded renovations to the old theater, partnering with GR. Renovations began in December, Paul said, and took six months. “They had a schedule. They met the schedule, not one day over,” Lisa marveled. Paul said there were several challenges to renovating the century-old building, including an old HVAC system that needed to be completely overhauled. Originally, there was only one stage exit, so, Paul said, his team busted through a wall and added stairs to the dressing room; performers can now exit the stage both left and right. The stage has been set with new LED lights, curtains and a movie screen, and the theater itself is equipped with a spectacular surround-sound system. The dressing room, too, was revamped with an additional changing space, new lights and a smart mirror. To create a modern event experience for audiences, the theater entrance got a glow-up: a mezzanine was built above the house for the sound booth, and the original house-level booth was transformed into a luxury drinks and concessions bar. Updating the venue was also an exercise in creative design: Lisa, who has decorated countless model homes and other spaces, wanted to remain true to the building’s original aesthetics. When the auditorium was built in 1931, art deco was in vogue. Scarmazzi chose colors authentic to the period (including a “peacock” colored stage curtain) and worked to ensure every detail, from the theater seat upholstery to the bathroom tiles, was authentic. “The building has amazing art deco architecture. I did a lot of research on art deco, and every decision was based off of that period, one, to mimic that, and keep the integrity and the history of this space. We wanted to keep the feel of this building and its roots. And I think we did it. We wanted to repurpose whatever we could in this space,” Lisa Scarmazzi said. The result feels like stepping into a New York City theater circa the Roaring ‘20s. It feels at once otherworldly and right at home in Canonsburg, serving not only as an upscale space for serious theater performances but also as an event venue that meets Washington County’s diverse audiences at their comfort level. “I know I overuse the word ‘transformational,’ but it’s true. We want to elevate the experience. Everything’s experiential today, and it’s really important that they have a great experience here,” Paul Scarmazzi said. “The importance of this being sustainable is it has to be a multi-purpose venue. So it’s Little Lake Theater. Comedians. All genres of music. Corporate events. We just see it as a very holistic approach to help the community become more vibrant.” Though Little Lake Theater has served the region for decades and Washington and Jefferson College’s Olin Fine Arts Center, the Washington Community Theater and the Old Schoolhouse Players offer ample entertainment, the region is, like many areas of the country, slowly becoming an arts desert. In the 1920s through the ’40s, Washington County was home to theaters like The Regent Theater in Washington and The Coyle Theater in Charleroi. But the region has never seen anything quite like Canon Theater. “This is projected at 45,000 ticket sales in 2029,” said Paul Scarmazzi. “That means 45,000 people are coming through here and are going to be looking next door. They’re going to be looking at our website. Understanding the [CECI] mission.” And spending money — in Canonsburg and in neighboring boroughs and towns. A report by Custom Consulting LLC estimates the theater will have a $13.8 million economic impact in its first year alone, with a projected $250 million over the next 20 years. Canon Theater’s inaugural season kicks off October 24, when local favorite band The Clarks will take the stage. The venue is partnering with Strahorn Theater to bring “A Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience” to Canonsburg this fall. 2026 will close with 14 performances of “White Christmas” by Little Lake Theater, Canon Theater’s theater-in-residence, from December 3 through 20. In July, CECI welcomed Blair Trunzo aboard as managing director for Canon Theater. He is working to curate a standup 2027 season that includes multiple Little Lake shows.

Lisa and Paul Scarmazzi were born and raised in Canonsburg and are delighted to serve on the board of the Canonsburg Educational and Cultural Institute. As members of that board, the couple wrote the script for repurposing the old Canonsburg Middle School auditorium into Canon Theater, which opens in October. Like any great production, Canon Theater is a collaborative effort. The Scarmazzis said Canon Mac alum and local businesses, including 84 Lumber, donated time, money and talent to the project, which cost $2.1 million for interior renovations alone (the exterior, Paul Scarmazzi said, will cost an estimated $600,000). The project was funded in part by grants, including a $265,000 grant from the Greater Canonsburg Economic Development board, donations and private equity. “There was such coming together and building this. We had a lot of people who contributed…to this to make it what it is today,” he said. Such collaboration stems from the belief that this theater, as part of CECI’s larger vision for the former middle school campus, is vitally important to and desperately needed in the region. “The Washington County Community Foundation, they do a study every so many years,” said Paul. The most recent study, he said, revealed “there’s an epidemic of loneliness” and “a real fear of the arts dying.” The renowned Sir Laurence Olivier once said that a theater is, “in a great city, or even in a small city or a village,” the “outward and visible sign of an inward and probable culture.” And Canon Theater is lit up, poised to be the star of our region’s cultural center. Let the show begin. For more information on CECI and the Canon Theater, including a lineup of upcoming shows, visit goceci.org. Follow CECI on Instagram and Facebook for the latest on upcoming events and more.

AUGUST 6, 2026 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | 15

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Jungmin L. Lee, M.D.

If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms, EGD could be the key to uncovering the cause and finding relief. Imagine you’ve been struggling with heartburn or discomfort in the stomach, and despite trying different remedies, the symptoms just won’t go away. This is where Upper Endoscopy (EGD) can help. EGD is a medical procedure that lets doctors examine your upper digestive system— the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. With the help of a thin, flexible tube with a camera, inserted gently through your mouth while you’re under sedation, doctors can get a close look to find out what might be causing your symptoms. Acid Reflux and the Role of EGD

Jungmin L. Lee, M.D. Gastroenterologist, Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates

For many people, the story starts with acid reflux—when stomach acid escapes into the esophagus, leading to heartburn. Some may also experience symptoms like a cough, a feeling of a lump in the throat, or even hoarseness. While acid reflux is common, untreated, it can lead to serious conditions like esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer. If acid reflux persists or new symptoms arise, your doctor may recommend an EGD to determine if these more severe conditions are present and ensure you get the right treatment.

Stomach Ulcer

Swallowing Difficulty and EGD for Diagnosis Imagine sitting down to a meal and suddenly feeling like food won’t go down smoothly. This is a common experience for those with difficulty swallowing, a symptom that may be caused by esophageal narrowing, motility (peristalsis) issues, or something more serious like cancer. EGD allows doctors to directly see what’s happening inside the esophagus, identifying blockages, inflammation, or growths early, which is crucial for proper treatment and avoiding serious complications. Abdominal Pain, Indigestion, and the Importance of EGD Now consider a different scenario: you’ve been dealing with indigestion—nausea, bloating, or stomach pain that seems to linger. While indigestion often stems from benign causes like diet or stress, sometimes it’s a sign of more serious conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or even stomach cancer. EGD helps doctors rule out these more severe issues, ensuring that any potential problems are caught early and treated effectively.

Normal Stomach

Stomach Cancer

If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms, EGD could be the key to uncovering the cause and ﬁnding relief. Talk to your doctor, call 412-232-8104, or visit https://www.pghgastro.com/ to schedule an appointment at Spartan Health Surgicenter with the specialists from Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates

Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates: 2589 Boyce Plaza Road, Suite 5 Pittsburgh PA 15241 • 412-232-8104 ofﬁce Spartan Health Building 100 Stoops Drive, Suite 280 Monongahela PA 15063 • 412-232-8104 ofﬁce 16 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

Serving the Mon Valley since 2005, Spartan Health Surgicenter is a freestanding, Medicare certified, Joint Commission accredited, ambulatory surgery center located off of Coyle Curtain Road in Carroll Township. Spartan strengthens the convenience of health care in the Mon Valley Community by providing greater comfort, more privacy and a relaxed environment for outpatient surgery center patients.

• Easily accessible from Toll Hwy 43, I-70 & Route 88 • Accept Medicare and most insurances • Experienced physicians, nurses and anesthesiology staff • State-of-the-art equipment and procedures • Joint Commission Accredited • FREE and convenient parking • Comfortable waiting area for families

SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: • Ophthalmology (Cataract, Glaucoma, Corneal) • Pain Management • Gastroenterology • Orthopaedics • General Surgery • Podiatry Patrick Garman, M.H.A. Executive Administrator

Jamie Farmer, R.N. Director of Nursing

Vincent Ripepi, D.O. Medical Director

MEDICAL STAFF Podiatry: Khoi Vo, DPM Colon/Rectal: Steven Esser, MD Orthopedic/Spine Jocelyn Idema, DO

Orthopaedic Surgery: Derrick Fluhme, MD Greg Habib, DO Patrick McCullough, MD Anthony Mustovish, DO Ari Pressman, MD Vince Ripepi, DO

Ophthalmology:

Aaron Wang, MD Thomas Findlan, DO Angela Gauthier, MD Nisha Dhawlikar Gosai, MD Anagha Medsinge, MD Julia Polat, MD

General Surgery: Prakorb Isariyawongse, MD Pain Management: Anthony Cuneo, MD Gastroenterology: Nicholas Bellicini, DO Mark Cedar, MD Bridger Clarke, MD Jungmin Lee, MD Lisa Oliva, DO Theresa Schuerle, DO

100 Stoops Drive, Ground Floor, Monongahela, PA 15063 724-483-2760 office 724-483-2762 fax AUGUST 6, 2026 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | 17

Splash into Frank Sarris Public Library programming Parking: Entrances on Murdock Street and North Jefferson Avenue are open. The free parking lot is behind the library and accessible from Murdock Street. Please remember: •

Summer operating hours are currently in effect. The summer operating hours are as follows: • Monday-Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. • Saturday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Starting the week of September 7, the library will return to regular operating hours: • Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. • Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • The drop box for returned items is located on Murdock Street, and there is also one in the parking lot. • Patrons can browse adult, children’s and young adult collections on the first floor. They can also use computers and access services such as copying, faxing and scanning documents. For pricing on services such as printing and faxing, please visit the website. • Computers and study rooms are available on a firstcome, first-served basis, and each patron is limited to one hour of computer use. For more details on upcoming events and resources, scan the QR code included. Patrons can also visit the website at franksarrislibrary.org, check out the Frank Sarris Library Facebook page or call 724.745.1308 ext. 1. Library closure The library will be closed on Saturday, September 5 and Monday, September 7 in observance of Labor Day. The library will also be closed on Friday, September 18 and Saturday, September 19. Adult programming FSPL Book Club: The group selects a mix of fiction and nonfiction titles, including New York Times bestsellers. The 18 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

September selection is “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer. The October selection is “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles. FSPL Book Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m. Mystery Club: Grab your magnifying glass and piece together the clues in this new book club dedicated solely to mysteries. The September pick is “The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder” by C. L. Miller. The October pick is “Finlay Donovan is Killing It” by Elle Cosimano. Mystery Club meets on the second Friday of each month at 4:30 p.m. Children’s programming Toddlers and preschoolers Tuesday Toddler Storytime: Toddler Time harnesses a toddler’s endless energy to spark children’s interest in books and reading. This storytime features short stories, fingerplays, action rhyme and songs. If you think your child might not sit still during storytime, we don’t expect them to! Come prepared to dance, wiggle and play as we learn together! This 30-minute program is designed for toddlers ages 1-3. 10:15 – 10:45 a.m. Preschool Storytime: Encourage children to develop a lifelong love of reading by bringing them to storytime at your local library. Enjoy books, songs, activities and more as preschoolers build early literacy skills. Suitable for children ages 3 through 5. 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Wednesday Wiggles & Giggles: Join us for wiggling and giggling fun! Enjoy this lively movement class with your little one, where we’ll explore music, rhymes, fine-motor fingerplays and large-motor movements. Designed for children ages 1-4 and their caregivers. Because of the nature of this program, we ask everyone to actively participate with their children by dancing and trying out the motions. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow for movement! 10:15 –10:45 a.m. Note: The following programs will return on Wednesday, September 16. Little Picasso: Do you have a budding artist at home? Little Picasso is

an interactive art program that lets preschoolers explore with a variety of art supplies and encourages them to express and develop their imaginations. 11 – 11:30 a.m. School Readiness: School Readiness is an afternoon class for children ages 4 to 6. Kids will sing songs, read stories and play games while building essential skills like active listening and following directions. 11:45 – 12:15 p.m. Junior Engineer: This program aims to teach preschool children fundamental engineering concepts through exploring picture books. There will be plenty of hands-on activities, story sharing and active listening. 12:15 – 12:45 p.m. Thursday Wiggles & Giggles on Thursday: Join us for more wiggling and giggling fun on Thursday mornings! Enjoy this lively movement class with your little one, where we’ll explore music, rhymes, fine-motor fingerplays and large-motor movements. Designed for children ages 1-4 and their caregivers. Because of the nature of this program, we ask everyone to actively participate with their children by dancing and trying out the motions. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow for movement! 10:15 – 10:45 a.m. Children’s programming Afternoon (All children’s programs begin at 4 p.m. and end at 5:45 p.m) Tuesday Lego Club: Calling all Master Builders! Show off your building skills at Lego Club. Ages 4-12. 4 – 5:45 p.m. Wednesday Afternoon Games: Join us at the library if you enjoy board games or would like to try our Nintendo Switch. All games are suitable for ages 6 and up. 4 - 5:45 p.m. Thursday Action Lab: Foster your child’s passion for science, math and creativity with this new STEAM program. Ages 6-10. 4 –5:45 p.m.

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*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APY for above Certificate effective August 25, 2025 and is subject to change without notice. Minimum $1,000 for opening balance required and to obtain the APY for the 12 month Certificate. After Certificate matures the Certificate will automatically renew at the current Certificate rate unless you indicate otherwise. Subject to penalty for early withdrawal.

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AUGUST 6, 2026 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | 19

for the ones who gave you everything

For nearly 100 years, we’ve been a trusted partner through life’s changes. With personalized care and options that grow with your loved one’s needs, we’re here to provide peace of mind every step of the way. To learn more, arrange a visit. Personal Care, Assisted Living, Rehab, Skilled Nursing, and Dementia Care Community Washington Campus 724.222.4300

Life Plan/Independent Living Community

Supportive and Affordable Housing

Home Health

SeniorCare Network 412.435.8969

Presbyterian SeniorCare Home Health 412.826.4055

Dementia Care Support

Successful Living at Home

Dementia360® 412.435.8950

Envisage® 412.826.6110

Encore on the Lake 724.213.8280

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20 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

SrCare.org/ Washington

Learn more about our communities EOE

4/29/26 2:28 PM

For Generations, We’ve Helped Families Navigate Aging. Every aging journey comes

Here are three ways we bring that promise to life:

with questions about care,

Stability

options, and what comes next. For generations, families across western Pennsylvania have turned to Presbyterian SeniorCare Network for guidance rooted in compassion, expertise, and trust. Our commitment to Making Aging Easier

reflects the steady support we strive to provide at every stage of aging.

For almost 100 years, Presbyterian SeniorCare Network has been a trusted presence in western Pennsylvania. Our longevity reflects financial strength, thoughtful stewardship, and a nonprofit mission focused on serving people rather than shareholders. Families trust us because our values remain constant, and many of our relationships span generations. That stability helps create continuity for older adults, families, and team members alike.

Expertise in How to Best Care for Older Adults Aging is not one-size-fits-all. Our team members bring clinical expertise and specialized training, but just as importantly, they take time to understand each person’s preferences, routines, and life story. We continually seek new and better ways to support well-being, creating stronger outcomes, meaningful connections, and opportunities for older adults to live with dignity, purpose, and comfort.

Living Options and Services Needs change. That’s why we offer a full continuum of living options and services, from affordable senior housing and independent living to personal care, skilled nursing, dementia care, and at-home support. Families can find support that fits today, with the reassurance that additional services are available if needs change tomorrow. Through seasons of change and generations of care, our commitment remains the same: Making Aging Easier® by walking alongside older adults and families with compassion, expertise, and trusted support.

“[My grandmother] was treated with dignity and respect during the most vulnerable time of her life. In her final moments, the compassion shown by the staff meant so much to our family. It truly felt like they mourned her loss alongside us. This was more than a memory care facility. It became her home.” – FAMILY MEMBER AND PHYSICIAN, GOOGLE REVIEW OF WOODSIDE PLACE OF WASHINGTON

We are a nonprofit, faith-based organization serving more than 7,500 older adults and their families through in-home and community-based programs across 10 western Pennsylvania counties. To learn more or arrange a tour: call 412.828.5600 or visit www.SrCare.org.

LivingWashCo_PSC_26Brand_MAE_ThoughtLdr_Quote_8.625x11.125_fc_R2.indd 1

EOE

6/15/26 12:47 PM

AUGUST 6, 2026 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | 21

Canon-McMillan hosts first “Canon McCarnival” Courtesy of the Canon-McMillan School District anon-McMillan School District hosted its first-ever “Canon McCarnival”, bringing together students, community partners, teachers and administrators for a district-wide celebration focused on inclusion and networking. Held on the district’s new middle school turf field, the carnival brought together students from eight schools participating in S.T.A.R.S. (Schools Together with Athletes Reaching Success), a partnership of 23 area high schools dedicated to creating inclusive, meaningful events for students with and without disabilities. The “Canon McCarnival” welcomed students in autistic support and life skills programs, as well as members of the Best Buddies club. “This event is a reflection of our commitment to creating inclusive experiences where every student feels supported,” said Becky Lieb, director of special education. “It’s about giving students opportunities to connect with others, build friendships across schools and experience success in a setting where they can truly be themselves.” The event welcomed students and staff from Washington High School, Trinity, Northgate, Keystone Oaks, Elizabeth Forward, TEC and the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children. Together, they joined Canon-McMillan students for a day designed to strengthen relationships across school communities, encourage new connections and social growth. The carnival featured a wide range of interactive stations, including cornhole, a bounce house, an inflatable obstacle course, yoga, bubbles, face painting, ring toss, frisbee, music and sweet treats. “All of the staff who assisted, including the paraprofessionals who work with our students every day, play such an important role in creating this environment,” said Lieb. “When you see

them together, you can really see the mutual respect between students and staff, how much they care for one another and the connections that are evident in their daily interactions.” Support from community partners helped expand the experience. Western Area Career & Technology Center provided food for students, adding a shared meal component that brought participants together. Additional community involvement came from the North Strabane Police and Fire Departments, which provided demonstrations and allowed students to explore emergency vehicles firsthand. Organizations such as ARC, Always B Smiling, TEC, Range Resources, Canon-McMillan Student Council, Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop, American Global and AHN also contributed interactive stations throughout the event. “One of the most rewarding parts of the day was seeing the students connect, smile and support one another,” Lieb added. “Watching them engage with peers from different schools, simply enjoy being together and loving life; that’s what makes events like this so powerful.” The “Canon McCarnival” also highlighted the power of collaboration and the importance of fostering an inclusive school community focused on educating the whole child. “The dedicated staff in our buildings create and foster these relationships and serve as the foundation of our strong programming,” Lieb said. Lieb credited CMHS special education teachers Kali McFarland and Samantha Barron with bringing the idea to life, saying they created something that exceeded all expectations. “We hope this is just the beginning,” Lieb said. “Our goal is to continue building on this and make it an annual tradition that grows stronger each year, giving students something they can look forward to and take pride in.”

Canon-McMillan moves to Chromebook-free learning Courtesy of the Canon-McMillan School District he Canon-McMillan School District will eliminate the use of Chromebooks for students in kindergarten through second grade beginning in the 2026-27 school year. Superintendent Dr. Greg Taranto announced the initiative as part of the district’s broader effort to reduce screen time and strengthen direct interaction in classrooms. “Our primary goal is to ensure maximal learning and holistic development, which necessitates a renewed focus on direct, human-centered interaction,” he said. According to Taranto, the decision follows an extensive review of research showing that young children learn best through hands-on experiences, face-to-face interactions and collaboration rather than extended screen time. “We have been, and will continue to purposely purchase physical textbooks and instructional materials rather than digital versions whenever possible,” Taranto said. “We have also been actively focusing on integrating technology thoughtfully and intentionally, rather than simply for convenience or default instruction.”

22 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | AUGUST 6, 2026

Taranto said that technology tools will continue to play an important role in education, but only when they support sound instructional practices. “In addition to reducing screen time, our K-6 program will be revisiting ‘ed tech’ programs such as Reflex Math, IXL, etc., that are designed to gamify learning, which often translate to quick, fast bursts of information and token digital rewards,” Taranto said. “These programs are associated with quick hits of dopamine and reducing long-term attention spans, neither of which is beneficial to brain health.” Taranto looks forward to the new opportunities this change will provide to foster more interactive learning experiences for students. “This strategic shift will ensure that our youngest learners are receiving quality instruction with research-based practices that protect brain health during this critical development stage,” he said. The Canon-McMillan School District is committed to balancing technology use with research-based instructional practices that prioritize engagement, attention, social development and learning experiences for all students.

A U T O

Richard Bortz Jr. Owner 249 E. Roy Furman Hwy. Waynesburg, PA

724.627.6171 bortzchevy.com

BUDD BAER SUBARU

Mark Baer, Owner 83 Murtland Avenue Washington, PA

Mark Baer, Owner 71 Murtland Avenue Washington, PA

724-993-4430

724-914-6670

OLIVERIO AUTO

BUDD BAER GMC BUICK Mark Baer, Owner 83 Murtland Avenue Washington, PA

724-249-6047

D I R E C T O R Y

BUDD BAER MAZDA

3073 Washington Pike Bridgeville, PA 15017

1110 Laurel Hill Road McDonald, PA

412-564-9829 colussy.com

724-926-2155 oliverioauto.com

SOUTH HILLS LINCOLN 3344 Washington Road McMurray, PA

3644 Washington Road McMurray, PA

724.941.3000 southhillsauto.com

724.942.3000 southhillsauto.com

724.941.1600 southhillslincoln.net

SOUTH HILLS TOYOTA

STAR LAKE FORD

THREE RIVERS VOLKSWAGEN

2403 Washington Road Rt. 19 Canonsburg, PA

1212 Main Street Burgettstown, PA

John Bauer, General Manager 3694 Washington Road McMurray PA

724.947.3381 starlakeford.com

724.941.6100 3riversvw.com

724.743.1144 southhillstoyota.com

Jeff Innes, New Car Manager Route 19, McMurray, PA

TREGEMBO MOTORS

WARNE MOTORS

PRE-OWNED VEHICLES

Barry Tregembo, Owner 1-70, Exit 32B Bentleyville, PA

John Warne, Owner 100 East Pike Street, Canonsburg, PA

Intersection of Rt. 19, I-79,& I-70 Exit 19A Washington, PA

724.239.2200 tregembomotors.com

724.745.5956 johnwarnemotors.com

724.222.2800 washingtonchevy.com

WASHINGTON CHEVROLET

WASHINGTON HONDA

WASHINGTON HYUNDAI

Rt. 19 Strabane Square Washington, PA

724.222.2213 washingtonpahonda.com

724.222.2213 washingtonpahyundai.com

If you are interested in advertising on this directory, please contact Mauriann Curtis at 724.222.2200 ext. 2504

AUGUST 6, 2026 | LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY | 23

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