Good food, good fellowship, and good work were celebrated at the March 11 annual banquet of the Sewickley Creek Watershed Association. Held at the New Stanton Fire Hall, more than 260 people turned out despite the heavy rain, setting a new attendance record.
Two videos were shown about active SCWA projects with partners. One video highlighted work at Lynch Field. It was written, produced, and filmed by students from Greensburg Salem Middle School, whose classmates participate in a variety of projects through the Lynch Field Partnership.
"Scenery of Pennsylvania and landscapes from the area through the seasons showed what we are trying to preserve," said Dr. Uschak. "Our growth shows more community involvement," she added, citing the partnership with Greensburg Salem Middle School as an example. "An area of potential growth is letting people know what we are about to increase membership. It would be nice to get more young blood," she said.
SCWA member and Pennsylvania Game Commission's Joe Stefko recognized the work of student interns who donated more than 2700 hours over the last two years to the Sewickley Creek Wetlands. Thank you goes to Dag Smalling from Westmoreland Community College (WCCC), and Maggie Stump from Allegheny County Community College (ACCC), Mark Gritzer of WCCC, Holly Landy of the University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg Campus, Karen Miller and Stephanie Nedzelski from ACCC.
Deb Simko was recognized with a certificate of recognition for her outstanding professionalism and work during her internship. Joe Polansky and Henry Sobota also received recognition for their dedication to the SCWA. Stefko and his wife Phyllis were presented an award for their volunteering in the watershed. Officers and the board of directors were also recognized and thanked for their service.
In addition to Dr. Uschak, SCWA officers are Vaughn Neill, vice president; Peggy Trout, treasurer; and Robert Hepler, secretary. Directors are Ray Bennett, Wayne W. Brinker, Mark Killar, Doug Orbin, Greg Philips Don Elsbury and Jim Pillsbury.
Those attending enjoyed a buffet dinner and beverages. Organist Jack Theis entertained throughout the evening. Emceeing the evening's programs were Tom Keller, SCWA executive director, and Mark Killar.
A heartfelt "thank you" goes to banquet chairmen Jim Pillsbury and Joe Polansky and their committee for a successful evening. Serving on the committee were Donna Bailey, Wayne Brinker, Mrs. Jenny DePalma, Mark Killar, Kerri Moore, Mrs. Robert Ramsay, Chris Schauer, Doug and Peggy Trout, Henry and Janet Sobota, Francis Polansky, Jack Theis and Vickie Vrabel.
As such the Association shall use its resources to educate the citizens of the watershed as to sound environmental practices. In addition, the Association will seek out and cooperate with government agencies, interested organizations, businesses and individuals to implement programs to improve water quality and encourage proper land use.