The Watersmith Journal

The Allegheny Front Features First Waves
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The Allegheny Front Features First Waves

When it comes to reporting on environmental topics in Western Pennsylvania, the Allegheny Front radio show is the frontrunner.  Naturally, we were ecstatic when digital editor, Andy Kubis, came to cover a First Waves river surfing and filmmaking workshop last July.  What she witnessed, however, was a foreboding account of why watershed protection is so vital.  As the river turned black before our eyes, there was only one thing for us to do – document the event to instill the urgency of action needed.

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Breaking Waves at Mount Ararat
EVENT, Project, NEWS Ian Smith EVENT, Project, NEWS Ian Smith

Breaking Waves at Mount Ararat

Nestled in the urban sprawl of Pittsburgh’s East End, The Mount Ararat Community Activity Center provides innovative programs and experiential learning to the area’s families and youth.  Earlier this summer, the Center debuted a new program for a select group of students, part of which involved teaching them to surf in whitewater rivers.  While surfing might be the last thing many think of in this landlocked region of Pittsburgh, that is exactly what Mentorship Director, Dr. Charles Howell, has brought to the Center through partnership with a local organization called, First Waves. 

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