811 Day begins today

STEUBENVILLE — Beginning today, Columbia Gas of Ohio is urging homeowners and contractors to contact 811 at least two business days before beginning digging projects. The free and simple service helps prevent damage to underground utility lines and promotes community safety, according to Bob Heidorn, president and chief operating officer.

“As the end of summer approaches, we see many homeowners rushing to complete the outdoor projects that got away from them over the last few months,” Heidorn stated. “That’s why this is the perfect time to remind Ohioans how to dig safely around buried utility lines. Accidentally striking a single utility line can lead to costly repairs, outages and fines. Calling 811 prior to breaking ground is a free and easy way to help keep you safe and your project on track.”

Calling 811 or visit OUPS.org residents are connected to the state system which coordinates with local utilities to mark underground lines using color-coded flags or spray paint. These markings help identify the location and type of utility lines, such as gas, electricity, water or communications, so that digging can be done safely. Projects needing a locate request include, installing fences or mailboxes, planting trees or shrubs and constructing patios or decks. Shallow garden digging can be dangerous because utility line depths can differ due to erosion, prior work or uneven ground. While homeowners or professionals may think they know where underground utilities are, the only dependable way to confirm is by contacting 811.

“Safety is at the heart of everything we do,” added Heidorn. “We’re proud to support 811 Day and reinforce our commitment to protecting our customers, employees and communities.”

For information about safe digging practices, visit OUPS.org or ColumbiaGasOhio.com.

Vintage Base Ball Day set

PITTSBURGH — Vintage Base Ball Day is coming to the Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, part of the Sen. John Heinz History Center family of museums.

The event will host two “base ball” games, featuring regional teams. Events will begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Aug. 16.

Visitors can watch the Somerset Frosty Sons of Thunder and the Addison Mountain Stars play “base ball” using rules from the 1860s. Baseball was previously two separate words, which is why the event is using its former spelling, officials stated.

The teams will use the rule book adopted by the National Association of Base-Ball Players, which includes distinct differences from modern baseball, such as gloves not commonly being worn, players being referred to as ballists, a batter being called a striker and a fly ball that is caught after one bounce resulting in the batter (or striker) being called out.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to watch the games. Vintage Base Ball Day is included with regular Meadowcroft admission.

Visitors can stop by the new Robert Barensfeld Center, which houses the exhibition “Meadowcroft: The Site that Rocked the World,” highlighting the groundbreaking discoveries made at the site. The Frontier Trading Post will be closed during the games.

For information, call (724) 587-3412.