Rotary Club of Connellsville

11/04/2026

REMINDER - Poinsettia Tree deadline is next week! Thursday, November 12th! HURRY!
Order now! Please message me on Facebook if you want to order!
Delivery Date is November 19th!

NOT YOUR GRANDMA'S POINSETTIA!
GO BIG THIS CHRISTMAS — REALLY BIG!

The Rotary Club of Connellsville is bringing something EXTRA SPECIAL to the holiday season!

INTRODUCING OUR POINSETTIA TREE FUNDRAISER!
Forget the ordinary little poinsettia plant! We're talking about a GORGEOUS POINSETTIA TREE that can reach an incredible 48 INCHES TALL!
Imagine this stunning holiday showstopper welcoming guests into your home, brightening an entryway, or becoming the centerpiece of your Christmas decorating!

LOOKING FOR THAT PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT?
We all have that one person who's impossible to buy for! Why not surprise them with something truly unique, beautiful, and memorable?
✨ WHY YOU'LL LOVE THESE POINSETTIA TREES:
🌺 A spectacular holiday statement piece!
🎄 Up to 4 FEET TALL!

A unique gift for that hard-to-buy-for person!
❤️ A beautiful way to spread Christmas cheer!
🤝 BEST OF ALL — YOUR PURCHASE SUPPORTS THE ROTARY CLUB OF CONNELLSVILLE!
When you purchase a Poinsettia Tree, you're doing more than decorating for Christmas. You're helping our Rotary Club continue its tradition of giving back and making a difference in our community.

🎄 MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS MERRY, BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL! 🎄
❤️ SUPPORT LOCAL. SUPPORT ROTARY. SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER! ❤️
📣 PLEASE SHARE THIS POST! Help us spread the word about this exciting holiday fundraiser! See any Rotary Club member or message us if you would like to order.
Our President, Kevin Ghost, has one in his office and it is admired daily!

11/03/2026

11/03/2026

A special Thanks to Roxanne Abramowitz for the wonderful story in today's Daily Courier! A special program that was enjoyed not only by our club members, but the staff at Bud Murphy's too!

These dogs make everyone smile!

By ROXANNE ABRAMOWITZ, Nov 3, 2026
For an hour at a recent Connellsville Rotary Club, several lovable canine visitors put a smile on the faces of club members.
Pawsitive Impact Therapy Team is a nonprofit based in Greensburg, providing free therapy dog visits to medical facilities, schools, recovery centers, public events, and hospice/cancer treatment settings.
Rotary members enjoyed a little therapy and love from Paul Walker, Daisy, Maggie, and Vinny as each dog made their way around the room.
Pawsitive Impact Therapy Team (formerly Top Dog Therapy Team) focuses on bringing comfort, encouragement, and emotional support through trained therapy dogs and certified handlers. Their mission emphasizes compassion, professionalism, and community impact.
The organization is fully affiliated with the American Kennel Club as a Therapy Dog Organization. It was established in 2018 and re-branded in 2026.
Celeste Daisher, dog breed facilitator and Angelica Datz, member of the marketing team, spoke to the group.
Datz said there is a difference between a therapy and service dog. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities. Therapy dogs have handlers — volunteers — who go into different areas to provide comfort and affection.
Pawsitive Impact Therapy Team currently has 75 dog teams — working trained dogs and handlers. There is never a fee for a visit. The teams make visits to common places like hospitals, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation facilities, public events, summer camps, parades, walks, etc. “We go where ever people want to see our dogs,” Datz said, This year, more than 300 visits have been made to over 70 different locations.
“We are really out almost every day of the week,” she said. The teams cover the southwestern area including Fayette, Westmoreland, Allegheny, Indiana and Somerset counties. Daisher said the dogs must take a temperament test and respond well to being cuddled. “They actually have to like that kind of stuff,” she said.
The teams go through three supervised outings and interviews in different environments.
Once they do their outings, they can be certified and become part of the team.
Each dog is trained by their owners, that who from the organization’s facilitators.Facilitators are evaluated through the American Kennel Club. For general information, email [email protected]. To schedule visits email [email protected]. For information on training requirements visit [email protected] To find out more information on sponsoring a therapy dog, email [email protected]. Also, information can be found on the organizations Facebook, Instagram and website.

10/29/2026

Rotary Club Welcomes Penn Highlands Q-Care Representatives

The Rotary Club of Connellsville recently welcomed Deddeh Coppock and Kate Kopf, nurse practitioners with Penn Highlands Q-Care, as guest speakers. The two healthcare professionals shared information about the convenient medical services available to residents of Connellsville and the surrounding communities.
Penn Highlands Q-Care provides walk-in medical care for minor illnesses and injuries without the need for an appointment. These clinics offer a convenient alternative for individuals who need medical attention when their primary care physician is unavailable or their doctor's office is closed.
During their presentation, Coppock and Kopf explained that Q-Care treats a variety of common medical concerns, including sprains, viruses, and other minor health conditions. When additional medical attention is necessary, patients can be referred to an appropriate specialist.
Q-Care helps bridge the gap between a primary care physician's office and a hospital emergency department, providing patients with another option for timely medical attention when their condition does not require emergency care.
The Connellsville Q-Care clinic is located in Chattahoochee Square at 2618 Memorial Boulevard, Suite D. The clinic is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Rotary Club of Connellsville meets every Thursday at noon at Bud Murphy's Sports Bar in Connellsville. As part of Rotary International, a worldwide service organization, the club is dedicated to strengthening the community through fellowship and service. Individuals interested in making a positive difference in the Connellsville area are always welcome to attend a meeting and learn more about membership.

PHOTO: Pictured from left are Deddeh Coppock, Penn Highlands Q-Care; Rotarian Caitlyn Fiesta; Kate Kopf, Penn Highlands Q-Care; and Rotarian Polly Beal.

10/25/2026

NOT YOUR GRANDMA'S POINSETTIA!
GO BIG THIS CHRISTMAS — REALLY BIG!

The Rotary Club of Connellsville is bringing something EXTRA SPECIAL to the holiday season!

INTRODUCING OUR POINSETTIA TREE FUNDRAISER!
Forget the ordinary little poinsettia plant! We're talking about a GORGEOUS POINSETTIA TREE that can reach an incredible 48 INCHES TALL!
Imagine this stunning holiday showstopper welcoming guests into your home, brightening an entryway, or becoming the centerpiece of your Christmas decorating!

LOOKING FOR THAT PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT?
We all have that one person who's impossible to buy for! Why not surprise them with something truly unique, beautiful, and memorable?
✨ WHY YOU'LL LOVE THESE POINSETTIA TREES:
🌺 A spectacular holiday statement piece!
🎄 Up to 4 FEET TALL!

A unique gift for that hard-to-buy-for person!
❤️ A beautiful way to spread Christmas cheer!
🤝 BEST OF ALL — YOUR PURCHASE SUPPORTS THE ROTARY CLUB OF CONNELLSVILLE!
When you purchase a Poinsettia Tree, you're doing more than decorating for Christmas. You're helping our Rotary Club continue its tradition of giving back and making a difference in our community.

🎄 MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS MERRY, BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL! 🎄
❤️ SUPPORT LOCAL. SUPPORT ROTARY. SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER! ❤️
📣 PLEASE SHARE THIS POST! Help us spread the word about this exciting holiday fundraiser! See any Rotary Club member or message us if you would like to order.
Our President, Kevin Ghost, has one in his office and it is admired daily!

10/19/2026

A Mother's Love, A Son's Legacy: Colton's Hope Box Project Brings Comfort and Hope to Those Battling Addiction

Out of unimaginable heartbreak, one mother has found a way to turn the loss of her son into a powerful message of hope for others.
The Rotary Club of Connellsville recently welcomed Diana DeWitt, founder of Colton's Hope Box Project, who shared the deeply emotional story of losing her son, Colton, to an accidental overdose four years ago. Rather than allowing her grief to define his legacy, DeWitt has made it her mission to offer compassion, encouragement and hope to individuals struggling with addiction.
What began as an idea while Colton was in rehabilitation has grown into a heartfelt project dedicated to reminding others that they are not alone and that recovery is possible.
Through Colton's Hope Box Project, DeWitt is working to provide thoughtfully assembled care packages to individuals entering rehabilitation facilities, many of whom arrive with little more than the clothes they are wearing.
Each Hope Box will contain everyday necessities, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo and other personal hygiene products. But perhaps the most meaningful items are a journal and pen, included because journaling played an important role in Colton's own recovery journey.
For DeWitt, these are more than boxes filled with supplies. They represent kindness, understanding and the reassurance that someone cares.
Each box will also share Colton's story and the purpose behind the project, along with a personal message of encouragement for someone taking those difficult first steps toward recovery.
“Just let them know they're not alone and there is hope,” DeWitt shared.

Her commitment to honoring Colton extends beyond the Hope Box Project. In September, the fourth annual Colton DeWitt Memorial Softball Tournament brought together family, friends and community members to celebrate his memory, raise awareness about addiction and support a local six-year-old child battling leukemia.
The tournament has become another meaningful way to keep Colton's memory alive while encouraging open conversations about addiction and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and families.
During her presentation, DeWitt emphasized the importance of community involvement. Whether donating supplies, helping assemble boxes, sharing ideas or connecting individuals with local recovery resources, there are opportunities for others to become part of this compassionate effort.
While nothing can replace the son she lost, DeWitt is determined to ensure that Colton's life continues to make a difference.
Through one mother's unwavering love, Colton's legacy is becoming a source of hope for others. Each box carries a simple but powerful reminder: Your life matters. You are not alone. And your story is not over.
The Rotary Club of Connellsville was honored to hear DeWitt's moving presentation and learn about a project that reflects the true spirit of compassion, service and helping others.

The Rotary Club of Connellsville meets every Thursday at noon at Bud Murphy's Sports Bar in Connellsville. As part of Rotary International, a worldwide service organization, the club is dedicated to strengthening the community through fellowship and service. Individuals interested in making a positive difference in the Connellsville area are always welcome to attend a meeting and learn more about membership.

Photo: Diana DeWitt and Rotarian Ashleigh Daniels

10/09/2026

Rotary Club Welcomes Connellsville Thursa Crouse, from State Representative Ryan Warners office

The Rotary Club of Connellsville recently welcomed Thursa Crouse, District Office Manager for State Representative Ryan Warner, as its guest speaker. Crouse shared information about upcoming community events and opportunities for local residents to participate.
Among the events highlighted was the Farmers’ Appreciation Breakfast, scheduled for Saturday, October 10, at the Fayette County Fairgrounds.
Crouse also announced the annual Veterans Recognition Breakfast, which will be held Friday, November 6, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the Connellsville Township Fire Hall, located at 905 Fireman Street in Connellsville. The event provides an opportunity to recognize and honor local veterans for their service and dedication to our country.
Those wishing to attend are asked to RSVP by Friday, October 30, by contacting Representative Warner's district office at 724-437-1105.
The Rotary Club of Connellsville meets every Thursday at noon at Bud Murphy's Sports Bar in Connellsville. As part of Rotary International, a worldwide service organization, the club is dedicated to strengthening the community through fellowship and service. Individuals interested in making a positive difference in the Connellsville area are always welcome to attend a meeting and learn more about membership.

PHOTO: Rotarian Barry Craig and guest speaker Thursa Crouse.

10/01/2026

The Rotary Club of Connellsville welcomed Crystal Reagan (right), with Hope House Outreach, as the program speaker for the October 1, 2026, Rotary meeting. She shared information about how the ministry is providing clothing and personal hygiene supplies to those in need in the community. She also shared that they recently provided 90 backpacks with supplies for students returning to school. They are hosting a Winter Outreach Event on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 11 AM to 4 PM at Colonel Crawford’s Cabin Pavillion at Yough River Park in Connellsville, PA. This is a free community outreach event providing winter clothing, personal-care necessities, grab-and-go supplies and a hot meal to families and individuals in need - all at no cost.

Joining Crystal in the photo is Gerald Browell (left), Rotary Club member. The Rotary Club of Connellsville meets every Thursday at noon at Bud Murphy’s Sports Bar in Connellsville. New members are always welcome!

For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/HopeHouseOutreach

09/28/2026

Rotary Club Welcomes Connellsville Elks Exalted Ruler Vince Mascia
The Rotary Club of Connellsville recently welcomed Vince Mascia, Exalted Ruler of Connellsville Elks Lodge #503, as its guest speaker.
Mascia, a lifelong educator, shared the history of the local Elks Lodge and highlighted the many activities and community service projects its members’ support. Founded in 1899, Connellsville Elks Lodge #503 remains at its longtime home at 140 East Crawford Avenue and currently has 502 members.
A strong focus of the Elks is encouraging local children to become involved in positive activities. Mascia discussed several upcoming youth programs, including a soccer shoot and fall basketball shooting contest.
The lodge also continues its strong commitment to helping families throughout the community. Each year, its Angel Tree provides Christmas gifts for local children. According to Mascia, the children’s names placed on the tree are typically selected within just one or two days, with donated gifts distributed before Christmas. Elk’s members also work with area schools to provide turkeys to families in need.
Mascia explained that grants received by the lodge help extend its impact throughout the region. Last year, approximately $4,000 in grant funding benefited City Mission in Uniontown, providing food, hygiene supplies and paper products to assist people experiencing homelessness. This year, the lodge plans to focus its efforts on Connellsville-area veterans.
Mascia also shared several social activities taking place at the lodge. A new cook, Lee, formerly from Fox’s Tavern, has joined the Elks. Tuesday Wing Nights are available for members and their guests, while Saturday breakfasts are open to the public from 8 a.m. to noon.
The Elks will also welcome the band Fret Buzz on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The event is open to the public, with admission of $10 per person. Additional information is available on the Connellsville Elks page.
The Rotary Club of Connellsville meets every Thursday at noon at Bud Murphy’s Sports Bar in Connellsville. Rotary is an international service organization with clubs throughout the world. New members interested in serving the Connellsville community and making a positive difference are always welcome.
PHOTO: Connellsville Elks Exalted Ruler Vince Mascia and Rotarian Jessica Bortz.

09/18/2026

Dr. Shirley Alt Discusses the “Reading Crisis” at Rotary Club Meeting

The Rotary Club of Connellsville recently welcomed fellow Rotarian Dr. Shirley Alt as its guest speaker. In recognition of September as Literacy Month, Dr. Alt presented a program focusing on what she described as the “reading crisis” facing today’s generations.
A cognitive psychologist, Dr. Alt shared her concerns about declining reading and writing skills and discussed the important role the brain plays in learning, memory and comprehension. As part of her presentation, she engaged club members in a memory activity that demonstrated how the brain processes information and how memory recall works.
Dr. Alt emphasized that encouraging children to develop an enjoyment of reading is an important part of strengthening literacy skills. Helping young people discover books and subjects that interest them can make reading a more positive and rewarding experience.

The Rotary Club of Connellsville meets every Thursday at noon at Bud Murphy’s Sports Bar in Connellsville. Rotary is an international service organization with clubs throughout the world. New members interested in serving the Connellsville community and making a positive difference are always welcome.

PHOTO: Rotary Club of Connellsville President Kevin Ghost with Rotarian and guest speaker Dr. Shirley Alt.