Headwaters UpdateUS Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District, Vol. 3, Issue 3, November 2012

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On the CoverReel Adventures

On July, 14 kids and adults took part in M.J. Kirwan Lake’s Reel

Adventure. Photo by: Julie Stone See story on page 14.

US Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District

COL William GrahamDistrict Commander

Public Affairs Chief

Jeffrey Hawk

Editor/LayoutCarol E. Davis

Public Affairs Office412-395-7500

www.lrp.usace.army.mil

Headwaters Update is a quar-terly publication of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pitts-burgh District. It is produced for electronic distribution by the Public Affairs Office. Views and opinions expressed in the Head-waters Update are not necessar-ily those of the Department of the Army or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Submissions may be sent to CELRP-PA@ usace.army.mil for consideration in upcoming editions. Stories sub-mitted should be in a Word doc-ument format. All photographs should include a caption and be high resolution (at least 4x6 inches and 300 dpi).

In this Issue

Historical commission recognizes Mon River navigation By: Sheila Tunney

A historical marker recognizing the Monongahela River Navigation System as one of the nation’s most historically successful river systems was dedicated June 18 at Lock 3, Monongahela River Locks and Dam, Elizabeth, Pa. The marker was procured through the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) by Bruce Kish, Environmental and Cultural Resources Branch, as part of the Lower Mon Project’s cultural mitigation plan. The project, which began in the 1990s, upgraded the Braddock Locks and Dam downstream and is in the process of improving Lock and Dam 4, Charleroi, upstream. The third phase of the project will eliminate the 105-year-old Elizabeth Locks, located midway between the two other locks. This was taken into consideration in the decision to place the marker, which highlight’s the economic benefits of the Mon’s navigability to the region since 1838. Millions of tons of coal and coke transported to industries along the river provided the raw material that fueled the nation’s industrial revolution. There are six other locks and dams on the river which runs from Fairmont, W.Va., to Pittsburgh.

The ceremony included remarks from Elizabeth Mayor, David Householder, who acted as master of ceremonies; Pittsburgh District Commander Col. William Graham; PHMC Chairman, Andrew Masich, and state and federal elected officials’ staff.

Page 4 - 13-year-old girl shares her struggle with diabetesPage 6 - Loyalhanna/Conemaugh host first water safety dayPage 9 - Purple Martins nest at Conemaugh DamPage 12 - Water rescue training in Crooked Creek Outflow Page 18 - Military combines efforts at ShenangoPage 22 - Assistance from a distance

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Christina Fox, U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Student Ranger at Tygart Lake, rescues animals and often uses the animals in her care in interpretive programs to educate the public. One of her most unusual rescues is an alligator that goes by the name, Herbert. Several years ago, when Herbert was much smaller, he was purchased from a retail pet store. Like many people, Herbert’s new owners saw a baby alligator as cute, helpless, little creatures, they had no idea what was involved in the care of such an animal. After living for several months in their home, Herbert escaped his enclosure, and spent two stress-filled weeks roaming through the walls of their home. When he was finally located, one of the residents of the home decided, to ensure a future of stress-free restful nights, Herbert had to go. Then, Herbert’s fate fell into the hands of the local animal control department. Like most animal control facilities, they were not equipped to provide proper care for this wayward alligator that desperately needed a home. The staff at the animal control department did the next best thing and contacted Christina Fox, a specialist at West Virginia Snakes, wildlife education group, and turned him over to her. Fox, spent much of her life handling and rehabilitating wild and exotic animals, and had no trouble transitioning Herbert into an adopted home. A junior at West Virginia University, Fox is studying wildlife and fisheries, and has a in-depth understanding of the protection and natural environment of wild animals. She has seen firsthand the damage that unwanted exotic and domestic animals can have on the environment when they are released into the outdoors. Unfortunately, this is a very common story for many exotic reptiles. The exotic pet trade floods the market with animals while neglecting to fully inform the consumer what will be required to care for them. Exotic reptiles, such as alligators, have very limited options when they outgrow their welcome in a home. Many zoos cannot afford the costs of quarantine and care for the overabundance of these unwanted reptiles, which leads to euthanizing them. Fox, through educational programs, relocation, and other forms of hands-on involvement, is doing her best to combat this problem.

Herbert, along with many other rescued reptiles and the staff of West Virginia Snakes, has traveled around the state teaching the importance of responsible ownership of exotic animals. Together, they have taught countless people the importance of educating themselves about the care of unfamiliar animal before purchasing it. The primary lesson Fox conveys is that although they are amazing, creatures large reptiles such as alligators and snakes do not make good pets. She also encourages people to be more mindful of the importance of the conservation of all animals in the wild.

Herbert the alligator visits Corps’ Tygart LakeBy: Christina Fox and Michael Estock

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GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. – It always starts with something small, maybe a cold, or an ear infection. For a typical 13-year-old girl, catching a bug at school or from a friend is in-consequential, but for Amanda Christ -- nothing is ever simple. Christ has suffered from Type-1 diabetes since August 2007. It was during that sum-mer that her mother, Kathy, found her lying under a coffee table in the midst of a seizure caused by a disease she wasn’t aware had taken control of her body. In 2010, she first shared her story with members of The Fraternal Order of Eagles at their International Convention in Louisville, Ky., as a repre-sentative of the F.O.E. Diabetes Research Center at the Univer-sity of Iowa. The DRC dream began in Louisville in 2008 when del-egates of Eagles’ Aeries across

the United States and Canadaunanimously pledged to donate $25 million over five-years to fund the DRC, with every dollar benefiting research. Since that time, the F.O.E. has donated $15 million to the cause and has already helped make great strides in the effort to bring an end to diabetes. The organization discovered Amanda when her grandmoth-er, Nancy Shalansky, a longtime member, submitted a photo for the “Faces of Diabetes” campaign to raise awareness and generate donations for the DRC. Last week, the Christ family returned to the Eagles’ largest annual event to help further the quest for a cure and provide an update on her current health. Since September, Amanda has been hospitalized seven times. On two occasions, she had to be transported by ambu-lance from her hometown of

Meadville, Pa., to Pittsburgh – nearly 90 miles away. “It was hell,” her mother said. Each stay was the same – a simple ailment made exponentially worse due to complications from diabetes, another harsh reminder that no matter the effort, the life of a diabetic is never quite normal. Recently, things took an upward turn for the Christs, changes in medication and increased disease maintenance education have kept Amanda free and clear of hospital stays. On July 8, Amanda celebrated her 13th birthday with a private party thrown by F.O.E. staff and a special presentation on stage during the organization’s Welcome to Grand Rapids show. Despite the hardships, Amanda and her mother made their way to

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13-year-old Meadville native to share her struggle with diabetes with the Fraternal Order of EaglesBy Katherine Christ

Amanda Christ stands with John “Bear” McMillan, a F.O.E. member from Bonita Springs, Fla., who is currently traveling across the U.S. with his wife, Lorry, in an attempt to visit the organization’s more than 1600 F.O.E. organizations to raise money for charity.

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On June 9, Stonewall Jackson Lake hosted their first Public Safety Day event. The event was a great opportunity for Stonewall to celebrate safety aware-ness with its first responder partners from Lewis County, West Virginia agencies and the U.S. Depart-ment of Agriculture. The event provided a wide variety of safety aware-ness and information, while offering fun hands-on demonstrations and activities for all. The event also showcased a number of new emergency vehicles and equipment, and allowed the public an opportunity to meet and greet their local fire, police and other public servants. Agencies that participated in the event included the Weston Volunteer Fire Department, Lewis County Sheriff Office, West Virginia State Police, Lewis County EMS, West Virginia Department of Natural Resources-Wildlife Section, USDA Animal Control Section, and many more.. It is estimated more than 100 people enjoyed the afternoon. A few highlights from the event included Weston VFD’s Smoke House, Lewis County Sherriff’s DUI Police Go-Cart, water safety programs and tours of Stonewall Jackson Dam. Additionally, a boater safety course was offered by volunteer Kit Tressler. Stonewall Jackson Lake’s Jeff Toler, Nicole Lay-field, Amanda Rexrode and Alyssa Houck, along with Christina Fox, Tygart Lake and Rick Miller, Southern Area, teamed up to represent the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide a wonderful day of fun for all who visited the event.

Grand Rapids in positive spirits The Junior Order of Eagles, the F.O.E.’s youth group, presented a $5,000 grant to the DRC in her name, and she was surprised on stage with a special video from comedian Mark Eddie, also a diabetic, with whom she bonded during her first visit to the International Convention. Earlier that same day, Amanda participated in the “Finish For Darrell” motorcycle ride in honor of Eagles’ member Darrell Rall, who was severely injured during a 25-day, 25,000-mile ride to benefit the DRC. Sporting a bandana and a fresh tempo-rary tattoo in support of the Eagles, Christ joined the final mile of the ride on the back of the bike of John “Bear” McMillan, who is in the midst of a cross-continent journey to visit each of the orga-nization’s more than 1,600 Aeries. Eager to help in any way possible, Amanda traveled the Convention floor with donation jars, generating contributions from members and hotel guests and selling various DRC merchandise to help the cause. As one 13-year-old girl proved, living with dia-betes means you aren’t the average teenager – it means you’re something far, far greater.

Editor’s note: Katherine Christ is the administrative assistant at the district’s Northern Area Office.

Stonewall Jackson Lake hosts Public Safety DayBy Nicole Layfield

“Bear” McMillan helps Amanda after a motorcycle ride.

The first Loyalhanna/Conemaugh Water Safety Day was hosted July 21 at Loyalhanna Lake’s Bush Recreation Area. Although the weather did not entirely cooperate, multiple agencies and organizations set up displays for visitors to view throughout the day. Representatives from the Pennsylvania’s Game Commission, Fish and Boat Commission; Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - Keystone State Park; Conemaugh Valley Conservancy; Northwest Kayak and Canoe Rental; Manni’s Lighthouse Landing, Inc.; New Alexandria Fire Department; Blairsville Volunteer Fire Department; and Tunnelton Conemaugh Volunteer Fire Department and LifeStat Ambulance Service, Saltsburg, Pa., were available to answer questions and talk about the importance of water safety to visitors. Some of the vendors that participated in the event include Gander Mountain, Wal-Mart, McDonalds and Sheetz. Prizes were awarded to those who participated in different games that were based on the idea of water safety. All-in-all, many professional contacts were made, and the event is anticipated to be held annually as Loyalhanna and Conemaugh’s new signature event.

Loyalhanna/Conemaugh host first water safety dayBy: Garrett Murphy

Bobber the Water Safety Dog was included in Loyalhanna & Conemaugh’s first Water Safety Day in July

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REACH, THROW, ROW, DON’T GO!By: Travis November

On July 30, Crooked Creek Park Ranger, April Hawkey, and Student Park Ranger, Travis November, presented a water safety program for a day camp at the Richard G. Snyder YMCA, Kittanning, Pa. The camp hosted approximately 40 children ranging in ages from six to 12. The topic of the pro-gram was personal flotation devices and water safety. The kids had the opportunity to try on PFDs and learned how to properly fit their life jackets. The students also learned rescue techniques to use when someone is drowning. They had a chance to toss a water safety throw ring and a water safety bag at a cone that represented a drowning victim. This reinforced the motto the children were taught throughout the program: Reach, Throw, Row, Don’t Go. Each participant received a bag of water safety materials to remind them to always be safe around the water.

Crooked Creek Rangers Travis November and April Hawkey stand with day campers who attended the water safety program at the Kittanning YMCA.

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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Woodcock Creek Lake partnered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Crawford County July 14 to host their first Touch-A-Truck event. The event allowed children to climb up in the seat of local agencies’ equipment to see what it’s like on the inside. Each organization brought its vehicles to Colonel Crawford Park on the lake’s southern shore and shared its safety messages with the children. The local agencies participating included Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation, State Police at Woodcock Township, Ernst Conservation Seed, the U.S. Forest Service, Crawford County’s Scuba Team, HAZMAT and Mobile Emergency Center, Northwestern Rural Electric Co., STAT MedEvac, Mead-ville Ambulance Service, Blooming Valley, Saegertown and West Meadville 2 Volunteer Fire Depart-ments. The Corps’ Bobber the Water Safety Dog and his pal Smokey the Bear from the Forest Service were also on site. Approximately 400 people attended. Next year’s event is scheduled for July 13.

Woodcock holds first ‘touch-a-truck’ eventBy: Logan Snodgrass

Purple Martins are nesting at Conemaugh Dam. The birds are the largest member of the swallow family. These birds spend most of their lives in Brazil and only migrate to North America to breed. East of the Rockies they depend primarily on man-made housing structures. They are very picky when it comes to choosing their dwellings, which makes it difficult to attract martins. Fortunately, the real estate at Conemaugh is just what the Purple Martins are looking for.

Purple Martins nest at Conemaugh DamBy: Angie Zanin

On June 11, lineman from the Northwestern Rural Electrifica-tion Cooperative were onsite to place seven bat boxes as part of an ongoing habitat improve-ment project at Woodcock Creek Lake. Local bat expert, and Corps volunteer, Terry Lobdell constructed and donated the boxes. He was on site to over-see the placement. Three boxes accommodate approximately 200 large brown bats, and were placed at higher elevations to attract this spe-cies. The other boxes were constructed to accommodate approximately 100 small brown bats, and were placed according to the species’ nesting prefer-ences. Nearby, Crawford County Conservation District has a successful nesting colony that should easily expand into the new facilities.

Bat boxes installed at WoodcockBy: Joe Arnett

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Camp Sunshine 2012 brightens Crooked CreekBy: Melissa Salsgiver

Camp Sunshine was held at Crooked Creek Lake’s Day Use Area from June 25 - 27. Each day 50 campers, along with approximately 50 volunteer helpers, enjoyed events such as hay rides, crafts, fire and water safety programs, and even a special visit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Commander Col. Wil-liam Graham. Campers ranged in age from children to senior citizens. Camp Sunshine has been an annual event at the lake since June 1982. The camp is three days of outdoor fun for the special needs popula-tion of Armstrong County. It is co-sponsored by the Corps of En-gineers and Armstrong Resource Center of the Armstrong-Indiana Counties’ Mental Health/Mental Illness agency, and is supported by private donations.

Photos by: Melissa Salsgiver

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Cicada killers invade ConemaughBy: Angela Zanin

Sphecius specious, also known as the cicada killer wasp, has invaded the grounds of Co-nemaugh River Lake. Cicada killers are large solitary wasps. They get their “killer” name because of one of their unique behaviors. The wasps dig tunnels in the ground to build their nests, with multiple cells for each egg. They kill cica-das and place the dead carcass in the cells. They then lay an egg on top of the cicada carcass and cover up the hole. The egg hatches within one to two days, and the grub will feed on the cicada carcass. Cicada killer wasps naturally regulate cicada populations from becoming too large. This, in turn, benefits deciduous trees, upon which cicadas feed.

Dirt from the tunnel built to bury cicadas and lay eggs marks the entrance to a cicada killer wasp’s nest.

Photos by: Angela Zanin

Summer’s Best Two Weeks at Mercer Recreation AreaBy: Jason Cote

Covenant Presbyterian Church of Sharon, Pa., held its annual Summer’s Best Two Weeks program, a two-week long, overnight children’s camp. The event was held from June 18 – 29, at Shenango River Lake’s Mercer Recreation Area. The church used the lake during the first week activities. Addi-tionally, they made use of Park Ranger Jason Cote, who taught campers about invasive species during one of the nature walks given at the camp. Rangers Jus-tin Mitchell and Nick Longobardi also gave nature walks through-out the week. Other activities included canoeing, water skiing, water safety, archery, and ulti-mate Frisbee.

On June 23, the Lower Kiski/Task Force 340 Water Rescue and Emergency Response Class went to Crooked Creek to perform water moving training. Instructor Tom Schaeffer, assisted by Dan Felack Sr. and Todd Pilston of Lower Kiski, ran the students through a variety of stations. After the students were physically tested, they left with the skills and knowledge necessary to rescue not only victims in mov-ing water, but also themselves should the need arise.

Water rescue training in Crooked Creek OutflowBy: April Hawkey

Students use moving water rescue skills in Crooked Creek Dam outflow area.

Photos by: Travis November

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Memorial Summer Fest at Shenango draws hundredsBy: Rich Egger

On July 27, the 9th annual Leslie Sparano Summer Fest took place at the Mahaney Recreation Area at Shenango River Lake. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and countless volunteers worked together to make the event possible. The event is held in honor of Leslie Sparano, who was a social worker for the Mercer County Be-havioral Health Commission. Sparano was tragically killed in an automobile accident. Her family and co-workers wanted her clients to have some type of special event in her memory -- and the annual Summer Fest was born. Summer Fest provides unique recreational opportunities for clients with disabilities and their fami-lies who otherwise may not be able to enjoy the outdoors. This year, 800 people participated in the day’s activities, which included fishing, carnival games, bingo, crafts, dunking booth, live music, dancing, a picnic lunch, and appearances by Bobber the Wa-ter Safety Dog and Smokey the Bear. Additionally, participants had an opportunity to go for a boat ride on the Shenango Queen, a charter pontoon boat donated by RC’s marina, and other pontoon boats provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and other volunteers. Pennsylvania State Representative Mark Longietti, 7th Legislative District, also visited and enjoyed the day’s events.

Photos by: M.J. Egger

Above: Northern Area Manager Evan Skornick helps to serve lunch to 800 people.

Above: A volunteer makes balloon animals.

Reel AdventuresBy: Julie Stone

Kids and adults alike had a blast at MJ Kirwan Lake’s “Reel Adventures!” event July14. They dis-covered what kind of fish live in the lake, explored the different kinds of rods, reels, lures and other tools of the trade, learned how to clean a fish and became avid anglers. The lake staff expressed thanks to the visitors who participated and many thanks to the pros from Ohio Game Fishing who helped out, especially to Mark’s Bait and Tackle Shop for donating the bait for the event.

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Emsworth hosts state House members, staffBy: Don Zeiler

On July 17, Emsworth Locks and Dams, hosted a visit from a group of Pennsylvania House of Rep-resentatives members and staff. Port of Pittsburgh River Commission Executive Director Jim McCarville was also in attendance. He gave a presentation to the group on the district’s waterways and ongoing projects in the area. After the visit, the group was given a boat ride designed to showcase the industries located in the Emsworth pool. Dave Sneberger, Locks and Dams Branch chief, and Don Zeiler, Emsworth lockmaster, were onboard to highlight points of interest to the legislators and answered questions about the water-ways, while Ian McKelvey, Emsworth equipment mechanic, piloted the trip.

From left to right, Rep. Brendan Boyle (Philadelphia), Rep. Mark Longietti (Mercer), Rep. Mike O’Brien (Philadelphia), and Mary Isaa-cson (chief of staff for Rep. O’Brien), were among Pennsylvania House of Representatives members and staff to visit Emsworth Locks and Dams in July.

Photo by: Jim McCarville, Port of Pittsburgh Commision

Photo by Doug Ringer

On June 9, the staff at Mosquito Creek Lake took part in Marina Safety Day at Mosquito State Park. The staff manned a booth and disseminated lake and water safety information to an estimated 500 visitors. In addition to the Corps, a variety of local, state, and federal entities were in attendance to promote summer safety. Local first responders also had demonstrations with tasers, dive teams, and K9 units.

Mosquito’s Marina Safety DayBy: Eric Schreckengost

The Howland Township K9 unit demonstration.

Park Ranger Eric Schreckengost re-flects on the event with Mosquito’s water safety wind dancer.

Photos by: Marilyn Hahn

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East Branch, nearby counties sponsor emergency response exerciseBy: Mike Rattay

On June 14, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Elk County sponsored an East Branch Lake Dam Safety Table Top Exercise. The exercise was held at the newly renovated Elk County Emergency Operations Center on Montmorenci Road in Ridgway, Pa. Representatives from the Corps, partnering with Elk, Clarion, and Cameron Counties emergency managers participated in the exercise. The intent of the exercise was to challenge the attendees in responding to a dam failure scenario during a period of localized flooding. Prior to the exercise, attendees received an update on the current status and future activities for East Branch Dam presented by Project Manager Mike Rattay. Additional presentations were made by water management, Geographic Information System, and Dam Safety team members. The emergency managers and the Corps are working to achieve a seamless, co-coordinated, and cohesive response capability. Discussions focused on timely and effective communications with emergency managers, the Corps, 911 call centers and emergency responders.

The American Queen locked through Pike Island on its way to Pittsburgh July 17. The ship is a commercial river cruiser/canal boat built in 1995 with six decks and a 436-passenger capacity

American Queen

Ravenna City ParksM.J. Kirwan Dam & Reservoir student Ranger Doug Ringer demonstrates the importance of wearing the right size lifejacket at the Ravenna City Parks Safety Town event June 22.

Photo by: Jim Kirchner

Photos by: Julie Stone

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Local Boy Scouts celebrate Flag Day at ShenangoBy: Cory Hoffman

Boy Scout Troop 45 from Sharpsville, Pa., held a flag retirement ceremony at Mahaney Recreation Area on June 14, Flag Day. According to tradition, when a U.S. flag becomes worn, it should be properly retired and replaced with a new flag. Boy Scout troops across the nation celebrate Flag Day with this ceremony. They believe anyone who retires a flag should follow the same process. Traditionally, the flag is cut into four pieces along the edge of the blue star field. Then, the U.S. flag is no longer considered to be a flag, and can be burned. A wood fire is prepared and the burning flag is tended until only ash remains. During the Boy Scouts’ ceremony at Shenango, the ceremony was followed by a moment of silence and a song played by a trumpet player. After the fire was extinguished, the ashes were buried.

Pipeline spill exercise held at LoyalhannaBy: Tom McAfoose

On June 21, Sunoco Logistics conducted a pipeline spill training exercise at the Bush Recreation Area Boat Launch Parking Area at Loyalhanna Lake. Richard Bishop, a Sunoco Logistics incident coordinator, conducted a briefing with Sunoco employees and other agency representatives at the beginning of the exercise. Sunoco employees prepared a containment boom to be taken out on the water by vessels as part of the Training exercise. Both Conemaugh River Lake and Loyalhanna Lake employees participated in the exercise.

Photos by: Tom McAfoose

Photo by: Chrissy Zahniser

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Mosquito Creek holds Discovery DayBy: Marilyn Hahn

On July 21, Mosquito Creek Lake held their second annual signature event, Mosquito’s Lakeview Discovery Day. The day included various activities designed to encourage the discovery of the Lakeview Recreation Area and its habitat, wildlife, climate, history, and safe recreational use of the project. Multiple agencies participated in the event including; the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. Ohio’s Division of Natural Resources Wildlife and Watercraft divisions, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Metro Parks, Soil and Water Conservation, Mountain Man Trapping, and Mosquito’s dedicated volunteers. The community enjoyed a cookout, lifejacket giveaway, water safety games, Bobber the Water Safety Dog, a scavenger hunt, and bird watching. The day concluded with an interpretive trail hike on the Lakeview Nature Trail. Approximately 140 people attended.

Military combines efforts at ShenangoBy: John J. Kolodziejski

The Marine Corps Landing Support Company from the Youngstown Air Force Reserve Station returned to Shenango River Lake in June to repair and restore worn gravel roads in the popular Golden Run Wildlife Area. The unit hauled, spread and compacted 160 tons of Corps-purchased limestone in one day, resulting in a substantial improvement to the area. Master Gunnery Sgt. Gary Fetterolf, who was in charge of the assignment, also used his specialized equip-ment operating skills to straight-en sign posts, drop a potentially hazardous tree and remove a large dent in the guiderail. The Marines borrowed a truck from the Air Force to complete the project on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ land, making this a true joint military partnership.

Photos by Rich Egger and John J. Kolodziejski, Shenango

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King Midget Car Club tours Shenango DamBy: Jason Cote

The King Midget Car Club held its annual two-day jamboree in Hermitage, Pa., Aug. 9 – 10, and toured Shenango River Dam as part of their activities. Twenty-five visitors toured the dam and were given a brief overview of the facility, daily operations, and the history of the agency. Attendees also toured other area

attractions including Daffin’s Candies, the Joy Cone Co., Pymatuning Lake and the Tara Country Inn. The midget cars are considered street-legal and can reach a maximum speed of 45 mph using a nine-horsepower engine. The cars were manufactured in limited numbers from 1946 to 1970. They were first sold as kit cars and later as road-ready novelties. The King Midget was officially billed as the “world’s number one fun car.” The cars were produced by Midget Motors of Athens, Ohio.

Several of the attendees spent the weekend at the Shenango Campground, turning heads as they travelled the roadways.

Heavy rainfall at Conemaugh causes rising watersBy: Angie Zanin

Due to significant rainfall, the elevation of Conemaugh River Lake rose 12.1 feet over a period of 12 hours. The event occurred between 8 p.m. on July 27 and 8 a.m. July 28. The rising water forced the closure the disabled boat launch on Bow Ridge and the canoe launch at Aultman’s run. The water also consumed the lowest bridge on the West Penn Trail. The water’s elevation and expansion along the banks and shoreline also forced birds and animals to temporarily seek higher grounds.

Photos by: Angie Zanin

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On June 30, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ student Rangers Jason Cote, Shenango River Lake, and Marilyn Hahn, Mosquito Creek Lake, represented the Corps and introduced the water safety message at Sharon Speedway in Hartford, Ohio. Bobber the Water Safety Dog made a special appearance and water safety coloring books were given to children. An estimated 175 individual water safety contacts were made.

Water safety at Sharon SpeedwayBy: Marilyn Hahn

Boaters under watchful eyePark Ranger, Julie Stone, stepped up boat patrols during a July weekend in an effort to educate the public about low water condi-tions at MJ Kirwan Dam and to deter any unsafe actions of boaters and swimmers.

Scavenger Hunt at Shenango LakeBy: Custis Cozad/ Photo by Steve Panchick

Chris Mosebach of the Mercer County Conservation District held a scavenger hunt at the Shenango Campground Aug. 18. Working in groups, campers were given a list of 20 items to find and bring back within one hour. Items included flowers, leaves, camping gear, household items, a curling iron, guitar, deer antlers, among other things. As the groups returned, Mosebach explained the significance of some of the items, such as the oak leaves and Queen Anne’s lace. Items like the guitar and curling iron, he explained, were just for fun. More than 40 campers participated in the event. After the scavenger hunt, Mosebach explained the importance of wearing personal floatation devices or PFD’s. Mosebach is a retired resource manager at Kinzua Dam, and frequently presents interpretive programs at Shenango.

Student ranger wins bench-press eventBy: Travis November

Crooked Creek Lake Park Ranger Travis November took first place in the 2012 Bench in the Park at Ford City’s Annual Heritage Days July 7. He weighed in at 165lbs and pressed 280lbs. The bench press was scored by three judges who looked for proper technique, flat and proper form, and a clean pause on the chest before pressing. The awards were given to athletes that bench press the most weight in terms of their body weight.

On June 16, more than 220 riders took part in an annual bicycle tour in Mercer County Pa. Participants started in downtown Sharon and traveled around Shenango Lake. The tour had route lengths of 15, 35, 65 and 100 miles and provided several stops for the riders to catch their breath and re-energize with refreshments.

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On July 1, Gunnery Sgt. Robert J. Isler II, retired from the Marine Corps after serving faithfully and honorably for 30 years. He received a retirement certificate signed by Gen. James F. Amos, Marine Corps commandant, and a retirement button. Isler is a Maintenance Worker at Crooked Creek Lake and previously worked at Lock and Dam 4, Allegheny River

Crooked Creek Marine retires

On June 16 the first flight of the 115 anglers entered in the Forest L. Wood Bass League fishing tournament, anxiously waiting to get their day’s catch weighed. This is one of many fishing tournaments scheduled at Mosquito this summer. The FLW Bass League Tournament is one of five qualifiers taking place for the FLW Bass Classic being held later this year at Lake Barkley in Tennessee. The top 40 in points through the five contests will advance to the classic. The top prize was said to be over $4,000.

Mosquito Fishing TournamentsBy: Eric Schreckengost / Photo by: Eric Schreckengost

Christmas in July at Shenango LakeBy: Cory Hoffman

Shenango Lake was bustling with boaters July 21, when RC’s marina held its 27th annual Christmas in July. The event lasted from noon until midnight and included a Chinese Auction, a raffle for a boat dock for the 2013 season, a boat decorating contest, food, music, and fireworks. As evening approached, Santa Claus made an appearance followed by Bobber the Water Safety Dog. The event raised approximately $2,000 to donate toward leukemia research

Tour of Mercer County includes Shenango LakeBy: Kyle Kraynak/ Photo by: Jason Cote

Several pit stops were at Shenango Lake loca-tions such as the Clark Recreation Area, Chest-nut Run Swim Beach, and the Trout Island Trail. Proceeds benefited the Mercer County Trails Association which helps establish multi-use rec-reational trails in the Mercer County area. More information is available at www.mctrails.org

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Mercer County Trails Association, Corps Sponsor the Dam Race by Jason Cote

Runner’s High, an active road race organization, in conjunction with the Mercer County Trail Association and the Corps held a 5K Race on 25 July. “The Dam Race” began in Sharpsville, PA, continued across Shenango Dam and onto the Trout Island Trail. Nearly 400 runners and walkers competed in the race which was held as a fundraiser to benefit Mercer County Trails Association. The event also included a half mile long children’s race which began after the main event.

Assistance from a DistanceBy: John J. Kolodziejski

The Mercer County Critical Incident Response Team conducted a long distance sniper training exercise at Shenango Lake July 19, but no shots were fired, no rounds were on site and the firearms were disabled by removing the bolts. The purpose of the mission was to provide non-range finder experience for the team’s sniper contingent using only scope mil-dots, markings on gun sights that can be used to calculate distance. Eleven targets were placed along the shoreline at distances ranging from 250 to 1,100 yards. Each of the five members was tested on his ability to accurately determine distance without range finding aids.

The exercise was briefed to and approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in advance to include coordination with the Northern Area Office and the district’s Office of Security and Law Enforcement. A full safety meeting was conducted prior

to proceeding to the field and a triple safety check was completed by the team leader on site. Local law enforcement and the county 911 center were appraised of the exercise. The Mercer County CIRT was formed in 2004, a joint effort among Mercer’s District Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Department, Chiefs of Police and county police departments. The team is trained in hostage situations, terrorism, stand-offs, high-risk warrant services and other criminal incidents which need specialized expertise. Additionally, the CIRT will respond to natural and man-made disasters in assessing the situation, searching for victims and securing an area for other first-responders. The 25-member team has been called to nine serious incidents this year. The team offered their services to any relevant situations at Shenango Lake and plan to request Corps support on another future training mission at the project.

KUDOS

General Service John W. Zacheiss

Student Inten

Employees of the Quarter

Wage Grade Doug Christian Maintenance

Mechanic Supervisor

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District employees earn engineering credentialsJessica Corton, Geotech; Jason Prince, Construction; and Sara Hillegas, Hydraulics and Hydrology, from the Engineering and Construction Division, recently received their credentials as Professional Engineers, P.E. This tremendous accomplishment culminates years of education, years of successful performance under the supervision of already credentialed professional engineers, and passing both the Fundamentals of Engineering and the P.E. full day exams. Achieving P.E. certification is a significant career milestone for engineers in Career Program 18, Engineers and Scientists – Resources Construction, and opens up many opportunities. Their accomplishments reflect great credit on their ability, initiative and the Pittsburgh District. Please join the district in offering them well deserved congratulations.

Award winners for the 2012 Federal Executive Board Federal Women’s Committee, Women of the Year for the Pittsburgh District are Linda Everley (center), Regulatory, who took gold in the Staff Support category; Kim Poling (left), Southern Area Office, who took away a bronze award in the Staff Support category, and Youghiogheny’s Suzanne Estock who took home bronze in the Professional Non-Supervisory category

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has selected Suzanne Estock, Youghiogheny River Lake, as the recipient of the 2012 Take Pride in America Federal Land Manager Award. Estock was cited for selfless

service in developing the project’s volunteer program and building and sustaining partnerships which embody the mission of the Corps. Her combined efforts with volunteer missions resulted in more than 10,000 hours of service for a total value of nearly $140,000.

Ranger wins award

Ian McKelvey, Emsworth Locks and Dams, is a recipient of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ FY2012 Operations and Maintenance Castle Award for

his outstanding accomplishments as a lock and dam equipment mechanic leader. He is one of six individuals selected throughout the Corps worldwide. McKelvey was also recognized in August at the Corps Summer Leader’s Conference in Little Rock, Ark. District Commander Col. William “Butch” Graham, presented McKelvey the division level award in July.

Headwaters Snapshots

Reach, Throw, Row, Don’t Go - Attendees had a chance to practice throwing a water safety throw bag. See story on page 7.

Camp Sunshine at Crooked Creek - Campers and volunteers enjoy a hay ride. See story on page 10.

Reel Adventures - West Branch State Park Naturalist Cindy Smith tries her hand at fish cleaning. See story on page 14.

Summer Fest at Shenango - Mosquito Ranger , Eric Schreckengost, helps visitiors with life jackets. See story on page 14.