2011
Page 52
Vol. 1, Issue 5
DECEMBER
SENIOR GUIDE
SCHOOL NEWS:
Cal U Celebrates Homecoming Page 40
Bright Lights Sparkle at Monongahela Valley Hospital
INDEX: Local News . . . . . . . . 3 Places To Go . . . . . . . 4 Municipal . . . . . . . . . 28 Business . . . . . . . . . . 31 Ask The Experts . . . 34 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . 38 School . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Kids & Family . . . . . 44 Home & Garden . . . 45 Food & Dining . . . . . 49 Health . . . . . . . . . . . 50 People . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Entertainment . . . . . 57 Classifieds . . . . . . . . 58
FRE COP E Y!
Roberts Auto Body Holds Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
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n November 21 when the thermometer registered slightly above 40 F and there was a drizzle in the air, the community Laura Hermann, age 6, of Monongahela, who’s turned out for Monongahela Valley been a very good girl, presented Santa with a long Hospital’s 27th Annual Light-Up list of gift ideas at Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Night Celebration. 27th Annual Light-Up Night event. “Everyone’s life is different and we all have our own joys and struggles. But as I look out among so many friends and neighbors, I see the spirit of this Valley,” said Louis J. Panza, president and CEO of MVH. The festivities began at 7 p.m. when Mr. Panza thanked Joseph’s Nursery from Monessen for providing the interior and exterior decorations as well as for donating the special gifts that the children received. Appreciation also was expressed to The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. for contributing many hours of their time to ensure that the evening was a success. Ringgold High School’s RazzMa-Tazz singers provided the musical entertainment. Two children of MVH employees pulled the giant light switch to light up the night. The children included: Maggie Mateya, the 7-year-old daughter of Dennis Mateya, M.D. and Terri Mateya, a rehabilitation coordinator; and Clayton Smith, the 6-year-old son of Anne Smith, fund development assistant, in the Office of Fund Development.The highlight of the evening was when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in their sleigh to spread holiday cheer.
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oberts Auto Body, a long time business in the Mon Valley for over 35 years, has opened their new location on Craven Hill at the former Sedney Oldsmobile location. This location has full mechanical services including state and emission testing, brakes, alignments, oil changes, a/c work, radiator/transmission flushes, and towing in addition to a complete collision shop. Budget Truck rentals are available also. For more information, call 724-489-1000. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was recently held at Roberts Auto Body’s new location in Carroll Township. Shown are (l-r) Joanne Kushnar, secretary, Mark Roberts, manager, Diane Roberts, owner, Jim Harrison, Carroll Township supervisor, Ryan Lenzi, Carroll Township police officer, and Milt Kubik, Mon Valley Regional Chamber executive committee.
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News from the Rostraver Township Historical Society Rostraver Township Historical Society Christmas Party will be held at Hoss's Steak and Seafood House, 148 Finley Road, Rostraver Twp. on December 8 at 6:00 p.m. The November meeting held at the Historic Old Fells Methodist Church located at 800 Fellsburg Road in the Village of Fellsburg, Rostaver Township was attended by 23 members and guests. There was a two part program by guest speakers, Susanna Swade and Gary Strelick from the Monessen Historical Society. Susanna and Gary spoke on the acquisition of their new building next to the Museum and the daily operations of the Museum at 505 Donner Avenue, Monessen. Additionally, attorney Kris Vanderman, Esquire of Charleroi presented a 6-part program on Marcellus Shale exploration and Fracking in the Tri-state area. He described the formation process involved in the making the trapped methane gas, the drilling technology required to develop, recoup, store, and disperse. The methods for cleansing the water used in the fracking process and stated that a regional treatment plant should be built locally in many of the unused industrial facilities, which would create additional jobs for the area. The burden should be placed on the federal and state levels and the companies benefiting from using local waters to pay for this enterprise. Rostraver Township Historical Society's James Greenwood's is in the process of building his 13th historical
marker located at the Freedom Hero's Memorial in the Rostraver Veterans Memorial Park across from the Rostraver Township Municipal Complex near Cedar Creek Park. The space was given by the veterans committee through Dr. Regis Serinko. The Memorial is dedicated to all persons, men or women, who participated in the Armed Services including the rangers, militia, volunteers and draftees from American Revolution until the present time. The limestone fill for the historical marker was donated by Larry Calloway thru the Commissioners, lime stone was donated by Jones Stone and Marble Co. of Rostraver. Monies for the engraved cap stone was donated by Bianchi Monuments and Monessen Historical Society, and transportation for these items were provided by Raymond Popp, president of Rostraver Township Historical Society. James Greenwood has erected historical markers located Historic Old Fells Methodist Church, Route 906 at the Gibsonton, Belle Vernon park downtown, Pleasant Green A M E Church, 403 Johnson Avenue in Pricedale, Rostraver Road at Rostraver Garage Sales, the Cedar Creek Park Indian Marker, and three markers on the Yough River Bike Trail, including ones at Budd Town, Cedar Creek Mine and the Darr Mine. He also erected three up the Yough River Gorge for Steen Wood Mill, Patterson Grist Mill and the Greenwood Family Marker.
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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO DECEMBER 1
CANONSBURG LIGHT-UP NIGHT – Downtown Canonsburg light-up celebration, 5-7 p.m. DJ Kevin Simms will provide Christmas tunes. Guests enjoy games, horse-drawn sleigh rides throughout downtown. DECEMBER 3
TOYS FOR NEEDY KIDS OLDIES DANCE - featuring classic dance tunes from the 50s and early 60s with radio DJs Don Incheck and Bill Barnett held at Norwin Elks, Sandy Hill Rd., Manor, PA from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Door prizes, cash bar, kitchen open. Admission is free just bring an unwrapped toy worth $5.00 or more. Call Don at 724-516-1012 or Bill at 412-373-2317 for reservations. PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Hoot Owls Athletic Association, 129 4th Ave., New Eagle, 9 a.m. to noon. Sponsored by the Monongahela-Donora Area Lions Club. Cost is $5 per ticket. Proceeds benefit local community projects. Those age eight and under are invited to sit and chat with Santa. Be sure to bring your camera for free photo opportunities. Call 724-809-8232 for tickets and information. BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Event includes free picture with Santa (courtesy of Grilli Studio), two crafts, and pancake breakfast. Children are $8; adults $5. For more information and reservations, call the church office at 724258-8300. Friday evening festivities will be held December 2; for information, check for signs at the church.
SADECKY’S PUPPETS – The First United Methodist Church, 430 West Main Street, Monongahela, 4 p.m. The puppets will perform “The Carousel,” a show that not only entertains but also teaches the values of generosity and caring. HO, HO, HO WITH THE WSO – first performance of the Washington Symphony Orchestra All Star Choir, Trinity High School, 231 Park Ave., Washington, 8 p.m. Adults are $20; children, students and seniors are $15. Advance tickets available at Washington Financial, Citizens Library, online at www.washsym.org or by calling 724-223-9796. Tickets also available at the door. BREAKFAST WITH MARY AND JOSEPH – Thomas Presbyterian Church, 1068 Linden Rd, Eighty Four, 10-11:30 a.m. Celebrate Jesus’ birthday by eating breakfast with his parents, making a craft, playing games, and hearing about his birth, all before we sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus and eat cake in his honor. All ages are welcome. Come celebrate the true meaning of Christmas free of charge. ANNUAL SANTA LUNCHEON – Part of the Old-fashioned Christmas in Canonsburg event. Choral concert, craft making, hay rides and train rides, tours of the Canonsburg Fire Department. St. Patrick’s Parish Youth Ministry craft and vendor fair, Parish Hall, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Reservations are required for the luncheon. Forms are available at the Our Town Cooperative office at 134 N. Jefferson Ave. and other locations in downtown Canonsburg or at www.downtowncanonsburg.org. For additional information contact 724-745-1515.
ALL ABOUT TOURS
DECEMBER 3, 4
NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE – Grand Theatre, 207 S. Second Ave., Elizabeth, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. both days. Be swept away by the fantasy of the strange and wonderful events that happen at the Stahlbaum’s annual Christmas party. For tickets, call 412-6722200 or email askthedanceco@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.dancecoperformingarts.com. Buy your tickets early— last year’s shows sold out! SHEPHERD’S VOICE “REJOICE! IT’S CHRISTMAS” CONCERT – Riverview Baptist Church, 405 Main Street, New Eagle, 7 p.m. Sacred and secular Christmas songs of past and present. Admission is free, but we will take a love offering to support the ongoing ministry of Shepherd’s Voice. Refreshments will be provided following the concert. For more concert details, please call Saundra Bobnar at 724-258-4978. DECEMBER 8
CHARLEROI LODGE #615 MONTHLY MEETING - will be held on at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Hall, corner of 7th & McKean. All members are encouraged to attend. For more information, call 724-984-6611. DECEMBER 10
MON VALLEY CLOGGERS CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE – Macy’s court, Century III Mall, 7 p.m. Area’s most prominent cloggers. Free lessons every Monday in January from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412384-6442, email ClogginCliff@comcast.net, or visit the website MonValleyCloggers.com.
OLDIES DANCE - held at the White Oak American Legion, Constitution Blvd. Music by DJs Candy & Mike. Admission is $5. All proceeds benefit the Veterans. For more information, call 724-984-6611. ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS DINNER will be held at the Charleroi Masonic Lodge, corner of 5th & McKean. Event will feature Santa Claus and a Shriners clown. Admission is an unwrapped toy worth $5.00 or more event. Starts at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 724-984-6611. GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS PAST Haunting Tales by Candlelight at the Gathering, sponsored by the Monongahela Area Historical Society, at The House of John Blythe, 808 W. Main St., Monongahela at 7:00 p.m. $25 per person. Reservations required by calling 724-258-6432.
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Grace, 4803 Route 51 North, Belle Vernon with three shows dates to pick from, to ensure that you can fit this show into your busy Christmas schedule! December 11, 15, and 16 at 7:00 pm each night.
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LUNCH ON LINCOLN - sponsored by Charleroi Presbyterian Church, corner 5th and Lincoln Streets, 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lunch is free but donations are accepted.
DECEMBER 16 DECEMBER 30
SPEERS ANNUAL CHILDREN’S PIZZA PARTY WITH SANTA - 2:00 p.m. at the Speers Borough building. The Speers Civic Club invites you to drop off your “letter to Santa” in person! Reservations are required by calling 724-483-3193. The deadline is Tuesday, December 6. The party is limited to Speers residents only. DECEMBER 11
ADVENT PROGRAM – Saint Francis of Assisi Church, just North of Finleyville off Route 88, 7 p.m. The combined St. Francis of Assisi Choir and the Christmas brass ensemble of “Too Many Tubas” will present music, prayer, and scriptural readings. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. THE CHRISTMAS SHOES - this is an uplifting story that will not only lift your heart but also your soul! This drama/musical will get your family into the Holiday Spirit! Free to all, bring your family, friends and neighbors to a wonderful night out. The show is being performed at Journey By Grace, 4803 Route 51 North, Belle Vernon with three shows dates to pick from, to
ensure that you can fit this show into your busy Christmas schedule! December 11, 15, and 16 at 7:00 pm each night. DECEMBER 15
WOMEN MONTHLY SOCIAL MEETING/PHIPPS TOUR – WOMEN of Southwestern PA will celebrate their holiday social meeting with a candlelight tour of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Cost is $36 and includes bus transportation, food and admission. Guests are welcome. Reservations are required; call 724-344-1105. JAM – Carroll Township American Legion, Monongahela. Wednesday nights from 8-11 p.m. $3 admission, great food, smoke-free, friendly atmosphere. THE CHRISTMAS SHOES - this is an uplifting story that will not only lift your heart but also your soul! This drama/musical will get your family into the Holiday Spirit! Free to all, bring your family, friends and neighbors to a wonderful night out. The show is being performed at Journey By
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THE CHRISTMAS SHOES - this is an uplifting story that will not only lift your heart but also your soul! This drama/musical will get your family into the Holiday Spirit! Free to all, bring your family, friends and neighbors to a wonderful night out. The show is being performed at Journey By Grace, 4803 Route 51 North, Belle Vernon with three shows dates to pick from, to ensure that you can fit this show into your busy Christmas schedule! December 11, 15, and 16 at 7:00 pm each night. DECEMBER 18
MON VALLEY COIN CLUB - monthly meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Charleroi Senior Citizens Center (formally Montgomery Wards) in Charleroi. The annual Christmas party will be held. All members are encouraged to attend and the general public is invited. For more information, call 724-984-6611
QUARTET, GOSPEL PERFORMANCES – Lumber River Quartet of Lumberton, NC, will perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy, 411 4th Avenue, New Eagle, 7 p.m. Crimson Stream, local southern gospel quartet, will open for them. For more information, call 724-379-4304. DECEMBER 31
PSYCHIC FAIR – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Avenue, West Mifflin,10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop in and see what the new year will bring for you. Psychics/mediums, Tarot card readers, a rune reader, and aura photographer. Metaphysical items, books, jewelry, and gemstones for sale. For a $5.00 donation to the Chapel you will receive lunch. All donations are welcomed. For more information, contact Rachael Slifko at 412770-4961 or the.chapel@verizon.net.
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Greater Monessen Historical Society’s Annual Open House Includes Visit from Santa On Saturday, December 3, the Greater Monessen Historical Society will hold their annual Open House, as part of the Monessen Community Development Corporation’s Christmas celebration. The Heritage Museum will be open from 10 a.m. until 4p.m. Refreshments will be available. Shirley Beneccio will design another look at Christmas Past for the two front show windows. Douglas Education Center interns will decorate the show windows in the former Milsom Store building. Chef Tiffanie Rae Johnson of Shortbread City Designer Desserts will be at the Museum selling her cupcake creations. In the afternoon, following the Christmas parade, Santa Claus will hold court in the Museum and visit with the children. Parents are encouraged to bring cameras for a photo-op. Each child will have their photo taken with Santa himself and receive a treat. The photos will be mailed to the child’s home with a special letter from Santa. Additionally, the “Industrial Monessen” exhibit will be open for viewing. Admission is free.
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December 2011 Events at The Mesa Creative Arts Center, Burgettstown DECEMBER 2 - 4: Buffalo Hunt Winter Abundance Ceremony Weekend with Lewis Mehl-Madrona, MD, Ph D., author of Coyote Medicine, Coyote Healing, Coyote Wisdom, Narrative Medicine, and Healing the Mind Through the Power of Story and Barbara Mainguy, MA. Sessions are Friday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Three years ago, Lewis Mehl-Madrona and members of the Coyote Institute reawakened the winter hunt buffalo ceremony of the northern plains Indian Dr. Lewis Mehl-Madrona tribes, traditionally performed midwinter to invite sustainability and abunwill host a Buffalo Hunt dance into the community. Join us as we Winter Abundance Ceremony discuss what “hunting buffalo” means during the weekend of today. We will use mask-making, ceremonial objects, songs, and dances to creDecember 2 – 4. ate our own ceremony based in the context of modern life, and ask the spirits for abundance for ourselves and the whole “tribe.” Since this weekend centers around a sacred ceremony and the preparation for it, there is no set fee and no one will be turned away. Your suggested donation of between $150 - $250 for the weekend or heart offering if attending only the Sunday ceremony helps to cover travel expenses, support Dr. Mehl-Madrona, The Coyote Institute, and The Mesa Creative Arts Center.
The Full Moon Medicine Wheel Ceremony will be held on December 21. DECEMBER 21: Winter Solstice and Full Moon Medicine Wheel Ceremony. (Kids welcomed) On Wednesday from 6:30 – 9 p.m. This is the shortest day of the year and longest night, but it also heralds the return of the sun as the days start growing longer. It’s also an important time of opportunity for change in your life as powerful energies open doorways for you. Join us in a Native American-based ceremony in the Mesa Medicine Wheel to connect with the forces of nature, greet the coming of winter, express gratitude, and ask for help. Bring a covered dish to share for a pot luck dinner inside The Mesa after the ceremony. With Brad and Kate Silberberg. Your monetary donation helps support our healing work at The Mesa. Please dress very warmly as we will be outside for the ceremony. These events will take place at The Mesa Creative Arts Center, 30 Miller Business Park Dr., Burgettstown. For more information or to RSVP, call 724-947-3097 or visit www.mesacreativearts.com
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Belle Vernon’s Howard Hanna Office Hosts Successful 15th Annual Fundraiser Luncheon By Christen Stroh
On Friday, November 11, Howard Hanna Simon Real Estate Services hosted its 15th annual fundraiser luncheon. The 15th Annual Chow Chow was held at the Clubhouse Grill at Cedarbook in Rostraver. Hosted from noon to 3 p.m., the event featured lunch, a Chinese auction, a live auction, raffles, a bake sale, and tip boards. Tickets were $10, and all proceeds from the event benefited the Mon Valley Hospital Children’s Free Care Fund. “The free care fund helps children in the Mon Valley who don’t have health insurance,” stated Tom Simon, broker and owner of Howard Hanna Simon Real Estate Services. This year, the Chow Chow raised $7, 700, which brings the grand total of money earned and donated to the free care fund over the past 15 years to $86, 981. “The free care fund is a great progam and one that we support, and we appreciate all the help and donations from Howard Hanna and the community,” said Simon.
These attendees were happy to win a birdhouse from the Chinese auction.
Many waited anxiously in anticipation for the live auction to start.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Sell The Gift that Gives All Year As Fundraiser Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region 2012 Lottery Calendar is now available and makes a great gift. Each calendar has its own 3-digit lottery number with winning numbers taken from the first number drawn at 7 p.m. on the PA Daily Number. The cost of the calendar is $20 and daily winnings vary between $25 and $500. The calendar pays all year and runs January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. The calendars make a great gift for everyone in the family! To order a calendar or for more information visit www.bbbslr.org or call 724-837-6198.
Tom Simon, owner of Howard Hanna Simon Real Estate Servicers, his wife Nina Stobaugh-Simon, owner of Snoballs Hair & Tanning Salon, son Tom Simmon, Jr. and his wife Jeanne Simon smile at the success of the event.
Hungry guests smile while lunch is served.
Jody Moebius from Prudential Preferred Realty poses with Nina Stobaugh-Simon, owner of Snoballs Hair & Tanning Salon.
Pictured (l-r) Christine Cole, Joyce Bell, Gina Lynn, (standing) Debby Puglia, Linda Tasser holding Delaney Fretts.
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J.K. TENER LIBRARY, CHARLEROI NEWS
West Newton’s Miracle on Main Street Kicks Off Holiday Season
The J.K. Tener Library is located at 638 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi. For more information, call 724-483-8282, e-mail charlibrary@comcast.net or visit www.charleroilibrary.org.
By Kara Prentice
Happenings • Book Club – third Thursday of every month at 5:45. December’s meeting will be our Christmas gathering. Bring your appetite and a list of book suggestions for the coming year. • Enter for a chance to win a weekend at Splash Lagoon, Erie PA. $2.00 donation. All proceeds benefit the library. Drawing December 15 evening lottery number. • Be our library angel. Stop in and pluck an ornament from our tree that lists a basic need of the Library. Simply make a donation to the library and you will receive an angel ornament to place your name on and place back on the tree. • Visit Santa December 3 at 11:00 – 2:00 at the Market House. The Library will have face painters and crafts as well as a sweet treat. • Downloadable books are coming to the Library. Keep checking for more info on how and when they will be available. • Come in December 17 at 2:00 p.m. and let's listen to a few stories and do a fun craft to get us in the mood for the upcoming holidays! • Vote for the Tener Tree in the Festival of Trees! Stop in the Library and vote for us as your favorite tree. The trees will be on display the month of December in local business windows. • Holiday book bundles available for only $1.00 in the front lobby.
Sorry, Closed • December 23 thru 26 – Have a very happy holiday!! • December 30 thru January 1 – Ring in the New Year!!
Please Help!! • Did you make your yearly contribution to the Library? You still have time!! • Are you a plumber or handyman that could donate some time?? We are in desperate need or your services and remember they are tax deductible!!
Thank You from the J.K. Tener Library The John K. Tener Library Fall Festival on October 26 was a success if judged by the happy squeals of delight. The town was full of young and old dressed for fun. Many enjoyed the children’s games and crafts at the Market House. The chili cook-off declared a winner and much good food was consumed. Thank you to Toni, the Library Director, the staff and volunteers from the Library, and the Library Board members for all the preparation before and work that evening. This event is a library fundraiser at a time when much state and local funding has been cut. We continue to need your support. There is still time to donate in 2011 to receive a tax deduction. As we at the Library look at next year’s budget, the possibility of cuts to programs and collections is real. We love being your library and appreciate your patronage. Thanks to all who came and had fun.
Downtown West Newton Inc. presented “Miracle on Main Street: A Country Christmas” on Saturday, November 26th to the delight of many local adults and children. Festivities throughout the late afternoon and early evening included visits with Mrs. Claus near the community Christmas tree. Crafters and vendors sold holiday wares at the LaGrande Banquet Room, West Newton Senior Center and First United Methodist Church. Mark Henry demonstrated ice carving techniques while a Denny’s Wood Carvings representative showcased other types of artistic creations. The annual Christmas parade made its way down Main Street at 5:15 p.m. After the parade, festival-goers met with Santa and took carriage rides to view the sights around town. For those looking to just sit back and relax, the Stage Right Sensations proved to be the perfect entertainment. Other performers and shows that helped make the night a big success included Dave Smith of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, K West Dance Team and the Zeitergeist Drama, “Hear the Bells Ring.” The West Newton United Presbyterian Church was the scene of a live nativity and Jimmy Sykes, acclaimed organist, provided a variety of musical selections in the church sanctuary. For the enjoyment of history enthusiasts, the West Newton 105th Civil War Regimen was on hand to share marching techniques and daily routines in the life of a civil war soldier. A special thanks goes out to the winners of the “Santa Helper” letter writing campaign, who shared their wonderful wishes with Santa in notes sent in midNovember. For their efforts and thoughtful responses, these individuals were selected to meet Santa, participate in the parade and be his special helpers at the Miracle on Main Street Light Up Night festivities.
Charleroi’s Third Annual Festival of Trees Ongoing During December The third annual Festival of Trees, sponsored by Team Charleroi, is currently going on. The trees will be on display from December 1 through December 31 for the public’s enjoyment. Walk around and admire the windows in the business district that have been transformed by the addition of Christmas trees decorated by participating nonprofit organizations. Have a favorite? For a $1 donation, you can vote by completing a ballot at any of these locations: Colonial Floral & Gift Shoppe, Dee’s Records & Video, John K. Tener Library, Paolo’s Pizza & Pastaria, Prima Diva Boutique, or River House Café. Support these wonderful community spirited organizations with your votes. In addition, a panel of judges will select their favorite windows based on specific criteria, such as use of a theme, additional scenery, general attractiveness and creative representation of the organization's purpose. The judges’ selections will receive additional votes to supplement the public vote. The organization with the most votes will win a traveling trophy, recognition in the Mon Valley Messenger and, of course, bragging rights throughout 2012. All collected donations will be divided equally among the participating organizations. This friendly community contest will not only help to beautify downtown Charleroi throughout the holiday season, but has also given each participating organization the opportunity to showcase their talents and highlight their community spirit.
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The Cosmetology Academy at DEC Brings Home First Place in PABCA 'Total Look' Competition
Monessen Public Library Hosts Christmas Storytimes and Continues Diamond Jubilee Celebration
Students from The Cosmetology Academy at Douglas Education Center (DEC) demonstrated their creative and professional abilities in the Pennsylvania Barber and Cosmetology Association (PABCA) ‘Total Look’ Student Team Competition in Williamsport. The Cosmetology Academy announced that its six(l-r) Tonia Lawson, Monessen; Gary Nestor, Uniontown; member team took home Angelina Morgan, Donora; Tracy Braum, Monongahela; Billie Jo Szabo, Monessen ; Rachel Cornett, Belle Vernon; first in all categories. Josh Sapp, Point Marion. Competitors were to use hair, make-up, nails and wardrobe as a presentation of “street fashion glamour” inspiring looks from the streets of New York, London, Paris and Milan. Students who competed in the competition include Billie Jo Szabo (nail design), Rachel Cornett (make-up), Tonia Lawson (ladies’ hair design), Tracy Braum (men’s cutting), Angelina Morgan (female model) and Josh Sapp (male model). In addition to receiving first place in every category of the competition, the team brought home the ‘Best Dressed Couple’ award. The wardrobe was designed and fabricated by Nestor, and the overall look was influenced by the 1950s “Rockabilly” style with a modern twist.
As part of their Diamond Jubilee celebration, Monessen Public Library will collect pet food and treats for the new pet program operating out of the Monessen Food Pantry building. From December 1 through December 30, donations of pet products can be dropped off at the temporary Monessen Public Library location at Eastgate 11 during regular business hours. The products will be delivered to the operators of the pet program and will benefit animals in need. Two special Christmas storytimes are planned for Monessen Public Library during the month of December. On December 7 at 6 p.m., a decoration-themed storytime will be held by Miss Allysa. A holiday story will be read followed by the crafting of Christmas decorations. The following week, on December 14, the storytime will be visited by a special guest from the North Pole. Santa will be present to speak to the children and hear their Christmas wish lists. Light refreshments will be served. Special Diamond Jubilee refrigerator magnets and postcards are available for sale at the circulation desk. They make great stocking stuffers and can be sent with Christmas cards to friends and relatives. Proceeds benefit the Library Fund. During the renovations to the Library by the City of Monessen, Monessen Public Library is operating in temporary quarters on the upper floor at Eastgate 11, across from the Monessen Municipal Complex. A black and white book drop is located in the Eastgate parking lot for night drop-offs. The Library hopes to move back to their new Monessen Public Library and Cultural Center headquarters by late spring.
Donora Library Releases Schedule of December Events Remember When Donora – Tuesday, December 6 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. Join the discussion. Story Time – Thursdays, December 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 at 10:30 a.m. Movie Saturdays – 10 a.m. – noon; December 3: Tangled; December 10: Chicken Run; and December 17: Emmett Otter's Jug Band Christmas. Mon Valley Writers Group – Tuesday, December 27 at 5:30 p.m.
REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the January issue is DECEMBER 10
Season’s Greetings From Your Friends at
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LOCAL NEWS
Daley Legislation Honoring Nathan Kennedy Moves in Senate Legislation introduced by state Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, that would name an interchange of Interstate 70 in Claysville after a fallen soldier was moved from the Senate Transportation Committee and is poised for consideration by Senate members. The bill (H.B. 584) would name the Claysville interchange off of Interstate 70 for Sgt. Nathan P. Kennedy, who was killed April 27, 2010 in Afghanistan while serving in the U.S. Army. “This young man served his country with valor, integrity and courage,” Daley said. “He gave his life protecting and defending our country and the freedoms that we enjoy. We must never forget his life or his heroism.” Kennedy was a 2004 graduate of McGuffey High School and a three-time section wrestling champion. He was an Army Ranger, serving as a sniper assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division based in Fort Carson, CO. “To his community, he was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend,” Daley said. “In naming this interchange after Kennedy we not only honor his memory and memorialize his patriotism and valor, but also we draw attention to the many brave men and women who today are serving their country.” The legislation was unanimously voted out of the Senate Transportation Committee. The House already passed the bill. A favorable vote, without amendment, by the Senate is needed to advance the bill to the governor’s desk.
Donora Historical Society Deems Cement City Walking Tour Successful It was an 80 degree, perfect weather day for our Cement City presentation and walking tour on Sunday afternoon, October 9th. We hosted the Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation, as well as other folks from the Mon Valley and the greater Pittsburgh area. Despite conflicting with the Steelers game, we had an overwhelming crowd at the museum that numbered around 40 participants. We started with a slide presentation on Donora’s National Historic District – Thomas Edison’s Cement City, and then showed artifacts and original blueprints during the construction from 1916 and 1917. The slide presentation included photos from Donora’s favorite original photographer – Bruce Dreisbach. A walking tour followed in the Historic District to point out various architectural details and concluded inside an actual Cement City home that has rooms restored to the period. Apple cider and cookies were served at both the museum and the Cement City home. Afterwards, the group ventured down to Duke’s Café for a wrap-up discussion and dinner. It was a full afternoon and a good time was had by all. The Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum is located at the intersection of Sixth and McKean in the heart of Donora, and is open on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on a catch-can basis on weekdays at the same time or by appointment. For more information, email us at DonoraHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or call 724-823-0364 and leave a message.
Charleroi Federal Savings Food Drive Charleroi Federal Savings Bank will conclude its 75th Anniversary theme of giving back to the local communities by conducting a food drive in all of its branch offices until December 31. This food drive will enhance the county’s ability to raise the needed funds and donations for their local food banks. President Neil D. Bassi commented, “The bank wants to help eliminate hunger in the communities in which we operate.”
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Speers Halloween Parade Still Successful Despite Ghoulish Weather
First and second prize winners are pictured. 1st row, from left: Jordan Goydich, Shadan Goydich, Madalyn Cherry and Addison Theys. 2nd row, from left: Gianna Hall, Madison Duhon and Dominic McKita.
The Annual Speers Halloween parade was held on Saturday, October 29. Due to the inclement weather, the parade was held at the Speers Boro building. The snow didn’t keep the ghosts and goblins away. Prizes were given for several categories of children’s costumes and then a Halloween treat bag was given to all who attended. The event was sponsored by the Speers Civic Club.
Nico Rongaus and Dominic McKita
Ava Lion and Kelsey Mckita
Bus Traveling to DC March for Life The High School Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville is sponsoring a bus for those wishing to participate in the “March for Life” to be held in Washington, DC on January 23, 2012. The bus will board at 5:45 a.m. and leave the St. Francis parking lot at 6 a.m. Allowing for a short stop in Breezewood, PA, the group should arrive in Washington around 10:30 a.m. A stop at the National Shrine and an 11 mass will precede the march from the National Mall to Capitol Hill, where the group hopes to meet with their representatives. The bus will leave DC at 4:30 p.m. and will stop for dinner. The bus will return to Finleyville around 11 p.m. Cost for the trip is $20, which covers the bus trip and a snack. Each traveler is responsible for a packed or a purchased lunch at Breezewood and the cost of dinner. For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Mary Jane Jurofcik at 724-348-4511 or jurofcik25@gmail.com.
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Rams Club Hall of Fame Dinner a Gala Event Past Graduates and Current Students Honored By Paul Chasko
The Rams Club “big event” of the year was a huge success, honoring past graduates and current students. Eight outstanding individuals were inducted into the Rams Club Hall of Fame, and a group of current Ringgold students were selected for outstanding achievement awards. The Rams Club Hall of Fame dinner was held in the Ringgold High School cafeteria. After an enjoyable dinner, Master of Ceremonies Bradly Bassi got right down to business introducing a group of Ringgold students, each of which was selected to receive an achievement award for outstanding accomplishments in the arts, academics, and/or athletics at Ringgold High School. The students honored were: Chianti Sivek Jonathan Smith Chris Spahr Joey Wall Carlee Wiley Christina Wills Haley Mendola Jessica Mesina Olivia Meyer Rachelle Michalowski Lane Poziviak Shannon Robison Natalie Karpinsky Percy “Quad” Law Ashley Lenik Demetrius Louis Cory Lutz Brennah Martik Brent Davis Garrett Devenney Alexis Griese Jarod Hancock Hunter Homa Connor Kane Tamika Arnold Kathryn Bandi Amanda Bickel Christina Brletich Steve Chappars Alfon Cook Rebekah Sipin After honoring current students, the following alumni of Ringgold and/or its predecessor schools of Donora and Monongahela high schools were honored by inducting them into the Ringgold Ram’s Club Hall of Fame. This
Ram’s Club Hall of Fame inductees are (sitting) Paul Zolak, James Renacci, Deirdre B. Bair, Faye Irey (accepting for her husband Frank), (standing) Paul Adkins, Ron Paglia (accepting for Floyd France), Ashley Totedo Swanson, and Laura Magone.
Thirty-one Ringgold High School students received the Ram’s Club Achievement Awards.
year’s inductees are: Deirdre B. Bair – The critically acclaimed author of four published biographies for which she received the National Book Award and the Gradiva Award with two of her biographies chosen by the New York Times as “Best Book of the Year.” Laura Magone – A filmmaker, photographer, author, and organizational development consultant. She worked previously for Duquesne University, where she led consulting and training activities. Ashley Totedo – A 1995 graduate and basketball star of Ringgold High School. An All-American Basketball Center at Shippensburg University, she was instrumental in the team winning four straight PSAC championships. She is now a lawyer, having graduated from the Duquesne University School of Law. Paul Zolak – A Donora native and 1965 graduate of Donora High School. A stand-out athlete in both football and baseball. He pursued education and athletics at California University of Pennsylvania followed by a master’s degree from West Virginia University. He later coached football and taught at Ringgold before entering his 20-year period as the Ringgold Athletic Director. James Renacci – New Eagle native
and 1976 graduate of Ringgold High School. He attended Indiana University of PA earning a BS in business. His business acumen led him to become owner and manager of 60 businesses. He now resides in Ohio and entered politics to become an Ohio Representative to the US House of Representatives. Frank Irey, Jr. (Posthumously) – Born in Monongahela and a 1948 graduate of Monongahela High School. In his contracting/construction business, over 40 years he Irey Jr., Inc. constructed a multitude of roads, bridges, water
plants, schools, hospitals, offices, stadiums, mining complexes, and amusement parks. He served as President of the Mon-Valley Progress Council for 30 years with a focus on pulling together coalitions for the construction of the Mon Valley Expressway. He passed away in 2002. Floyd France (Posthumously) – Writer/reporter and later managing editor of the Monongahela Daily Republican for 43 years. Prior to that, he was a sportswriter. His interest in Mon Valley sports led to his founding of the Mon Valley Football Conference in 1925, which soon became the Big Five Conference including California, Charleroi, Donora, Monessen, and Monongahela. He was President of the Monongahela Area School Board and, after the Merger of Monongahela and Donora school districts, became the first President of the Ringgold School Board. Paul Adkins – A tenor, he enjoys a career in the United States and abroad. He has performed with 11 city-based opera companies, including a long list of symphonic engagements. His television credits include co-producer and featured solo artist in the international PBS broadcast of “The Musical Legacy of Roland Hayes.” He has been a frequent guest soloist on many telecasts. He is an adjunct Assistant Professor for the University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA.
Go to our website at www.monvalleymessenger.com for more photos by Paul Chasko of this event.
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Movin’ and Groovin’ Concert a Blast Concert Proceeds to Benefit the Monessen Library By Paul Chasko
Music from the “good ol’ days” of the ‘50s and ‘60s was resonating through the halls of Monessen High School on October 23rd as Henry Deluga’s musical group, Pure Gold, brought down the house with their Doo Wop sounds. The occasion was the second annual gala fundraiser for the Monessen Library. It turned out to be a reuniontype, movin’ and groovin’ bash with many of the avid fans of the Pure Gold group filling the auditorium along with supporters of the Monessen Public Library – about 300 fans were in attendance. Monessen’s Williams Sisters, Jane Williams Zimmerman and Suzy Williams Broadhurst were guests of honor at the second annual gala fundraiser for the Monessen Public Library. The Williams Sisters grew up in the post WWII years of the ‘50s and ‘60s and have gone on to become two successful alumni of Monessen High School and are using their skills to the benefit the newly renovated Monessen Public Library. Attendees of the event enjoyed a great dinner in the High School Cafeteria followed by ceremonies honoring Suzy and Jane, during which they were awarded a ceremonial “Movin’ and
Groovin’ key to the City of Monessen and Floral Bouquets. The MHS Greyhound, Mallory Harrell, presented to Jane, who was the very first greyhound. Head cheerleaders Angelique Jones and Tyra Chiartavalle presented to Suzy, who also was a head cheerleader at MHS in 1962. All in attendance then settled into their seats in the Auditorium to enjoy a great performance by Pure Gold. About $45,000 were earned for the renovation of the library. The two major contributions came from Eatn ‘N Park Hospitality Group Inc. ($15,000) and Citizen’s Bank ($10,000). Other earnings came from live auctions of 50 yard line tickets for the Penn State/ Nebraska Game, tickets for the Broadway production of “Million Dollar Quartet” in Pittsburgh, tickets for a Pitt basketball game of the winner’s choice and a football autographed by Joe Paterno. Fourteen Chinese auction baskets were also donated by Valley businesses. Sheri Husher, the sister-in-law of John “Jay Boy” Husher, presented community keys to the Williams sisters. John Husher was the first recipient of the library fund raiser award in 2010. That affair netted $40,000 for the library with a contribution from Husher of $25,000. The planning committee consisted of:
The Mon Valley Messenger is a proud member of the following organizations:
Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce
(l to r) Suzy Williams Broadhurst with her sister, Jane Williams Zimmerman.
The Monessen High School Cheerleaders and the Greyhound add some action to the concert.
Honorary Co-chairs Suzy Williams Broadhurst & Janie Williams Zimmerman The Chairman was Donald Hayes Member of the planning committee were as follows: Madeline Dudas, Gloria Hayes, Candis Kelley, Susan Lami, Randy Marino, Mary Jo Smith, Ralph Stone, Susanna Swade, Wayne Vlasic and David Zilka. Wayne Vlasic acted as both MC and Auctioneer Special thanks to the Monessen High
Sherri Husher presents the key to the City of Monessen to Jane Williams Zimmerman and Suzy Williams Broadhurst.
School Cheerleaders and the Greyhound Mascot for their added enthusiasm and the Eatn’ Park Smiley Face who made a special appearance. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRILLI STUDIO IN NEW EAGLE
Go to our website at www.monvalleymessenger.com for more photos of this event
WSO Expands Traditional Concert to Include “WSO All-Star Choir” Holiday traditions are something we all look forward to, and as 2011 comes to a close, the Washington Symphony Orchestra will take time for its traditional “Ho, Ho, Ho with the WSO” on Saturday, December 3 at 8 p.m. at Trinity High School. According to WSO Music Director and Conductor Yugo Ikach, “Young, old, seasoned and novices all share the stage to bring a little holiday cheer. Each December the WSO enriches one of the most memorable and joyous times of the year by presenting a concert to celebrate and begin the festivities on a happy note.” Ikach has teamed up this year with two local choral directors, Trinity’s Marsha Owens and Quaker Valley’s Matt Boice, to offer the audience not only a great orchestral performance, but the first-ever “WSO All-Star Choir.” A select group of high school and college singers from the area will make up the choir to perform some special music and classic favorites such as Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” from his Messiah. Another tradition at the December concert is the audience sing-along. This year the audience will hear some new arrangements by the WSO’s principal violist Andrew Adams. The past two WSO December concerts have been sell-outs, so advance tickets are recommended. Tickets can be purchased at Citizens Library or any branch of Washington Financial, as well as online at www.washsym.org or call 724-2239796. Tickets will also be sold at the door.
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Monongahela Hosts Light Up Night
Connor David of Monongahela anxiously awaited Santa's arrival and started the line for pictures. Santa's cutest elf, Ethan Doran of Chicago, took a break outside of "My Coffee Shop" after all the festivities. He was in town visiting relatives for Thanksgiving.
The Ringgold High School Marching Band led the arrival of Santa.
A Living Nativity was presented by First Baptist Church, including animals and a chorus.
By Miranda Startare
Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce along with People’s Natural Gas and Slagle Roofing, Inc. recently helped light up the city of Monongahela in preparation for the Christmas season. The light up celebration “Santa Claus is Shopping in Town” was held on Friday, November 18, 2011 and included entertainment by local DJs, acoustic performers, and the Ringgold Marching Band. Dancers from The Dance Company by Lori of New Eagle also performed throughout the town. Businesses hosted open houses with free treats for visitors. Luminaries lined the streets from Dierken’s Pharmacy to New Eagle, and Christmas trees were on display decorated by local students, including those from Madonna Catholic Regional School and Ringgold Elementary South. PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA MILTON
Dancers perform from The Dance Co. by Lori of New Eagle.
Victoria Reichel of New Eagle enjoyed her first time on Santa's lap.
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Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce Announces 2012 Board of Directors The Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its officers and board members for the 2012 Board of Directors. They are: OFFICERS: Keith Peer – President Debby Puglia – Vice President Mary Esther Antal – Secretary Bernie Zunic – Treasurer BOARD MEMBERS: Patrick Alberts Robert Crall - Incoming Matthew Ivill Ron Kesten Tom Patterson Leonard Pirilla Kim Redman Frank Spoto, Jr. – Incoming Rachel Willson Outgoing board members are Tom Mimidis and Andy Solan. Officer and new board positions will begin January 1st. Thank you to those who have served on the board and those who continue to serve. Your commitment of time, treasure and talent is appreciated and valued.
Be A Real Live Santa Claus ... Help Americans Less Fortunate This Christmas With the economy affecting so many families in the United States, we at Coldwell Banker have decided to create a fun product that can be shared by many Americans during the holidays, and with every purchase, you will be contributing to the www.1000forathousand.com Christmas campaign for needy families across the United States. With the help of so many of you, one of our goals is to have companies purchase 1,000 stickers at $3 each to give 1,000 families funding for Christmas in 2011. Larger or smaller donations will also be accepted, and individual purchases are greatly appreciated, too. We will also add your name or company's name to our website if you would like to be recognized as a contributor. We will be looking all over the country to find the families that really need this help. In fact, if you know anyone that really needs this kind of help please go to our website at www.1000forathousand.com and tell us about them or write a letter to us. This is a creative idea with long lasting effects. We together will touch so many lives this year and we will continue this for as many years as we can. This is a big opportunity to be a real, live Santa Claus. You can make a difference for just $3.
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Valley Health and Safety Training Center December Events Valley Health and Safety Training Center will be holding the following courses. All class prices include the American Heart Association student book and appropriate completion card. • Healthcare Provider will be held Saturday, December 10. Cost will be $60.00. 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Intended for nursing students, pre-hospital personnel, hospital personnel, life guards, doctors and will be held at the Monessen Ambulance Service at 1001 Donner Avenue in Monessen. Participants must pre-register and pre-pay. • Heartsaver CPR Adult/Child/Infant and AED will be held Tuesday, November 29, cost is $40.00. Class will be held at the Monongahela Valley Hospital at the Lombardi Education Center. 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The class is intended for lay persons, daycare centers, new parents, personnel care home employees, teachers and anyone wanting a basic understanding of CPR. Participants must pre-register. • Heartsaver First Aid/CPR/AED will be held opposite Saturdays. Next class will be held Saturday, November 19, cost is $60.00. This class is intended for anyone wanting the basic knowledge of CPR and basic first aid. Suitable for personnel care home workers, teachers and daycare center for adults and children and churches. 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The class is held at Mon Valley EMS, 1001 Donner Avenue, Monessen. Students must pre-register and pre pay. • Next Healthcare Provider for BLS will be offered in January 2012. All classes must have a least 2 paid students or the class will be canceled and you will be notified. Thank you for supporting the training center and for
scheduling your classes. We appreciate your business and it is good to know that our community knows CPR. Any business wishing CPR/AED/FA for their employees, please call the training center. We would be happy to train your employees so they may help fellow workers and patrons of your businesses. An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) class will begin in March 5, 2012. The classes are every Monday and Wednesday with an occasional Saturday. Classes are from 6 p.m. till 10 p.m. The class is sponsored by the Westmoreland County Community College. Cost of the class is $225.00 plus books. The tuition is subject to change as it gets closer to the class. You must be 16 years of age to take the class. Anyone interested give the training center a call and an application will be mailed to you. The training center will also be sponsoring other classes for continuing education classes • LifeFlight Safe Landing Program is scheduled for December 13 from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. This is also intended for all EMS workers and the fire departments that have quick response service with the ambulance. • Highway Safety for the Emergency Personnel is scheduled for January 26 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Cost $25.00. Is intended for all EMS workers and fires departments who respond to emergency calls with the ambulance. • Hazardous material operations class will be offered in April 2012. Call the training center to be placed on the list for the class. To contact Valley Health & Safety Training Center, please call 724-6849536.
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Bentleyville Library Hosts Gem of a Fundraiser
Tables showing some of the jewelry available for purchase. The large selection of pearl necklaces was a favorite of shoppers.
Gerry Ott and Holly Detts Dranzo seated at the check out table tally Donna Majoroso's purchases. Donna's jewelry box is a little fuller now with all her lovely new selections!
Friends of Bentleyville Library have been collecting and accepting donations of jewelry for the better part of 2011. On Saturday, November 11-12, they held a jewelry sale to raise funds to benefit children's programming at the Library. A room full of well-stocked tables featuring many selections of baubles, pearls, necklaces, bracelets, pins, earrings, rings, and beads coaxed lots of shoppers out to peruse the offerings. Almost everyone went home with an exciting new piece of jewelry, knowing they supported a very worthwhile project. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS
Artist Kama Lee shows off some of the beautiful handcrafted glass jewelry that she created for the Sale.
Rostraver Public Library Sells 2012 Enjoy Book Friends of the Rostraver Public Library are selling the 2012 Enjoy Book, which features coupons and discounts for dining, shopping, services and products. The Enjoy Book makes a great year-round gift and is available at the library, located at 700 Plaza Drive, Belle Vernon. For more information, call the library at 724-379-5511.
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Happy 70th Birthday, Bentleyville Public Library!
Old photos of women’s groups and nursing groups from when the library was multi-purposed.
Diana Blair, Library Director
The Bentleyville Public Library, located at 931 Main Street , celebrated its 70th anniversary in October. Founded in 1941, the Library, in its early years, was the meeting place of the Pioneer Club, the Daughters of the American Revolution, a school for nursing classes, and, during World War II, the Library collected newspaper for defense with the proceeds going to purchase books. In celebration of its “birthday,” the Children's books of all kinds Library held raffles all month with prizes including gift cards, a $70 gift card drawing for those born in 1941, a Cub Cadet snow thrower, and a $125 gas card. On October 24, they celebrated with a birthday cake in honor of the Library's birthday. The Bentleyville Library offers four public computers, a growing young adult section, a children's section, new release fiction on loan for one week, memorial books, birthday parties, programs, a card catalog accessible on laptops, and they are working on a one-card system with Washington and Green Counties. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS
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MVH’s Leaders Build Toys to Kick Off Toys for Tots Season U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program Coordinator Wally Fronzaglio (left) poses with MVH’s John Bogdan and Doug Prentice with the toys assembled by MVH management during a recent teamwork exercise. Bogdan and Prentice are the hospital’s Toys for Tots coordinators and Fronzaglio has been the local Toys for Tots coordinator for 23 years.
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Model Railroads on Display at BVA Resident’s Home During Open House
Tis the season, and “All Aboard!” Model Railroader, Ray Helster of Belle Vernon, grew up around trains and worked for the PL&E and BuffaloPittsburgh railroad for 33 years, from Ray Helster of Belle Vernon proudly where he is now retired. For the past 15 displays his scenic model railroad. years, he has spent countless hours starting from scratch, meticulously creating a scenic model railroad display that is so lifelike, even the oldest of children would appreciate the detail. This year, Helster decided to have an open house and guests from around the area came to see his multiple model railroad displays. This year’s addition was a smaller layout, created in memory of a deceased family member who also dabbled in model railroading. Those that attended the open house, both young and old, got to see a how a man with a passion for trains has turned a hobby into an art. His scenic railroading creation was definitely something to get everyone into the holiday spirit. PHOTOGRAPHER: RON PUDLOWSKI
Monongahela Valley Hospital leaders work to assemble toys for the local Toys for Tots program. They are Marsha Chacko, diagnostic radiology supervisor; Tim Hamstra, supervisor, special procedures; Debbie Burkhardt, chief radiation therapist; and Susan Betler, blood bank supervisor.
While practicing team-building skills at a recent leadership conference, Monongahela Valley Hospital’s leaders transformed the Education Conference Center into a Santa’s workshop of sorts as they assembled toy tricycles to donate to the area’s Toys for Tots program. After a half-day conference for the hospital’s ambitious system-wide improvement effort called the Journey to Excellence program, hospital leaders were divided into groups of six or more members. Each group was given a toy tricycle still in the box, which they assembled as a team using tools they had brought just for the purpose. U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program Coordinator Wally Fronzaglio of Donora attended to witness the toy assembly, which has become a favorite annual event for the leaders. Fronzaglio then accepted the donated toys afterwards on behalf of the Mon Valley Leathernecks, a group of 167 former Marines of all ages and walks of life that “does all the legwork” for the local Toys for Tots program. The group formed in 1986 to run a local collection program. Fronzaglio said he looks forward to the MVH event because it serves as the official kickoff for the Toys for Tots campaign. Anyone interested in contributing may send checks made payable to Toys for Tots by mail to Wally Fronzaglio, 204 Brokaw Ave., Donora, PA 15033, before December 15. Checks received after that date will be used for the 2012 drive. For more information on the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program, visit www.toysfortots.org. For information on the local program, contact Coordinator Wally Fronzaglio before 5 p.m. at 724-797-3824 or after 5 p.m. at 724-379-8888.
Domestic Violence Victims Can Reach Out for Support As the weather changes, many people begin to look forward to the coming holidays. For victims of domestic violence, the coming holidays evoke feelings of dread. There will be no happiness. Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA can make this holiday season a safe one for victims of domestic violence and their children. All services are free and confidential. Support groups are available where you can talk with others about abuse. To find out more, in Washington County, call 724-223-9190 or 1-800-791-4000; in Greene County, call 724-8522463; and in Fayette County, call 724-439-9500.
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Bentleyville’s Halloween Parade Overcomes Snow to Amass Crowds In spite of cold temperatures and several inches of snow earlier in the day, Bentleyville Borough held its annual Halloween Parade on Saturday, October 29th at 1:00 p.m. The parade went along Main Street through the heart of town. Hundreds lined the sidewalks to watch and retrieve candy tossed to the children. Many participated in the parade, also, including Bentworth High School Band, floats, groups, dance teams, and characters. Vendors sold food and beverages along the Parade route. Prizes were awarded to winners in each category. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS
State Senator Tim Solobay costumed as himself, braved the cold temperatures to hand out treats.
Vampires and Count Dracula reign on this "True Blood'" float. The Bentworth High School Leo Club wished everyone a Happy Halloween wild tossing candy from their float.
Caught in the act, "Methodist Men" Carl Donley and Howard Fields partake of some of their own offerings. Both needed good nourishment to ward off the cold.
Clown and Master of Ceremonies Rod Kushner captured the attention of this jail house pup.
The Bentworth High School band, color guard, and majorettes delighted the crowd with their costumes and performances.
The Halloween Parade ended with Santa, who arrived again in Bentleyville for the Christmas Parade on November 28.
Bodie Morgan, dressed as a cornstalk, had be carried by his dad for part of the parade due to the wet wintery conditions and that he could not take big steps.
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Rostraver Women’s Club Partners with Local Chambers and Businesses to ‘Help Our Neighbors’ Rostraver Women’s Club, in collaboration with the Greater Rostraver Chamber, Monongahela Area Chamber, Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, Chaney’s Natural Health, and other local businesses would like to ‘Help Our Neighbors’ by giving to local families in need this holiday season. We will be collecting new items until December 14th at designated drop locations, listed below. Items collected will be packaged and distributed the week prior to Christmas. Please be generous in your donations. In many instances, the recipient families may have children of varying ages. Feel free to donate any item(s) you can and items will be paired with the best family. Money also makes a great donation. All money collected will be used to purchase additional items or to offer financial support to recipient families, if possible. Checks can be made payable to Rostraver Women’s Club. Dropoff locations: • Greater Rostraver Chamber, 606 Broad Ave, 2nd Floor, Belle Vernon • Mon Valley Regional Chamber, One Chamber Plaza, Charleroi • Monongahela Area Chamber, 212 West Main Street, Monongahela • Chaney’s Natural Health, 138 West Main Street, Monongahela For more information, contact Tanya Chaney at 724-328-2834 or chaneysadmin@gmail.com.
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Local Bridge to be Named in Honor of Monongahela Military Hero State Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, said he is pleased that legislation he jointly sponsored to name a bridge after Carl E. Vuono unanimously passed the House and is on its way to the Senate. Daley worked with Rep. Rick Saccone, R-Allegheny, to honor a Monongahela native who retired from the U.S. Army as a four-star general and who served as chief of staff of the U.S. Army. “General Vuono had a distinguished and illustrious military career that will go down in the history books as exemplary,� Daley said. “Even as he rose through the ranks, he never forgot his roots in the Mon Valley. Naming a bridge in his honor seems a fitting tribute for a man who served his country with valor. I am proud to be part of this important effort.� The legislation (H.B. 1886) would designate the bridge that carries State Route 136 over the Monongahela River, connecting Forward Township to Monongahela as the General Carl E. Vuono Bridge. Vuono graduated from Monongahela High School and the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. He went on to serve three tours of duty in Vietnam. Vuono served as chief of staff to the U.S. Army and was mentor to former Secretary of State Colin Powell and Commanding Gen. David Petraeus. “For his military valor, he earned numerous medals including the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star and the Army Distinguished Service Medal,� Daley said. “I am hopeful that my colleagues in the Senate will act expeditiously to move this legislation so that we can add a new tribute to these so justly earned awards – naming a bridge in his honor.� The legislation moves to the Senate for consideration.
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Work Certified Academy Provides Help for Jobseekers When Work Certified Academy opened in September of 2008, it was one of Washington County’s –bestkept secrets. The Academy offers a nationally recognized job training certification to any resident or employer in the county free of charge. The brainchild of the Washington Greene County Job Training Agency, the Academy has certified over 400 jobseekers and provided training services to over 1,000 county residents and employers to date. Funded by the Washington County Local Share Account, the Academy offers an intensive two-week job training program that teaches jobseekers the skills that local employers are looking for. The Work Certified curriculum was originally designed by employers and focuses on the soft skills that are so often barriers to success in the workplace. The Academy has added additional computer training to the program, as more employers have moved to online applications and higher standards for computer literacy for all employees. In order to achieve certification, students must demonstrate proficiency in 52 competencies and pass an online exam with 80% or higher. The Academy is a hands-on experience for students. Work Certified trainers work with students in the classroom, and a job developer helps with job placement after graduation. In addition to the latest job search techniques, students learn the newest resume trends and interview coaching strategies. The course also includes
computer basics and an introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel. Since the Academy began, it has successfully trained jobseekers of every age and background. The oldest graduate was 76, and more than 22 percent have college degrees or beyond. Most are high school graduates and have been displaced from their current jobs or are underemployed. Many are over 40 and are unsure of how to navigate the changing job market in the region. It often takes this group longer to find new employment, and they may need to update skills or change careers. The only program of its kind in the country, Work Certified Academy is a unique community resource that has placed 89% of graduates in employment or higher education. Academy staff can also provide customized softskills training programs for Washington County employers. In addition to the two-week classes held in Washington, the Academy staff also offers a series of one-day mini-workshops at the Mon Valley Career Link in Donora. Call the PA Careerlink to register at 724-3794750. Please visit our website at www.workcertifiedacademy.org or call us at 724-225-2551 for more information and a schedule of classes. The next class dates are December 5, 2011 or January 9, 2012. The Academy is located at 95 West Beau Street, Suite 115 in Washington, PA.
Bentleyville Public Library Posts Holiday Closings The Bentleyville Public Library will be closed December 23, 24 and 26th to celebrate Christmas. The library will also close on December 31st. The Bentleyville Public Library will close at 6:30 pm on December 7th . A brief board of trustees meeting will be conducted. The Bentleyville Public Library follows the Bentworth school system for snow closings.
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Alumni Society Donates to Penn State Fayette Campus Scholarship
Presenting the check to Chancellor Dr. Francis K. Achampong (center) are Penn State Alumni Society board members (from left) President David Omatick, Nancy Port, Secretary Billie Jo Yuhaniak, and Treasurer Wayne Port.
The Penn State Fayette Alumni Society recently made a gift of $7,500 to Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus for the society’s campus scholarship fund. The scholarship was endowed in 2005 to provide financial assistance to Penn State Fayette students. The funds for the recent gift were raised from the alumni society’s annual ice cream sale and the Blue and White Golf Outing. An Equal Opportunity University
West Newton Public Library Sponsors Holiday Book Sale Just as we have turned back the clocks to signal the end of Daylight Savings Time for 2011 and fall is slowly giving way to winter, so are many positive changes apparent at West Newton Library. At a recent library board meeting, the board members decided to offer evening hours on Wednesdays from 6-8 p.m. The evening hours complement the well-established regular hours of Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. - noon. The library is also looking to expand its book collection and make that inventory available to the public through a book sale. They are accepting donations of children’s and adult titles, hardcover and paperback books, biographies, non-fiction material, dvds, audio tapes and VHS tapes. Donations may be dropped off during regular library hours and the book sale is scheduled for Wednesday, December 14th. Take the opportunity to look around your home and do some holiday cleaning of any unwanted books and materials that may be candidates for donation. Then come on out on December 14th to find a unique gift for that book lover on your Christmas list. West Newton Library is a member of the Westmoreland Library Network. Anyone 18 years or older can apply for a free library card with proof of identification. Through computer access and searches within the library network, additional books can be requested if the West Newton Library does not have them. They will be available for pick up one day after the request is placed. Stop in soon and visit this gem of a local library. The staff looks forward to helping you open your life to another world of fascinating reading.
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Mon Valley Cloggers to Perform at Century III Mall Clog dancing is a percussive dance easily described as “hillbilly tap dance.” The Mon Valley Cloggers are the area’s most prominent cloggers, having performed over 685 shows in southwestern Pennsylvania since organization in 1992. The cloggers will perform Christmas dances at 7 p.m., Saturday December 11, in Macy's court at Century III Mall. The group also offers free lessons that will allow the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Every Monday in January from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., lessons will be free. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. As dancers often have to travel a distance to find clogging, bring a friend or neighbor to accompany you. A companion will shorten the ride and you will have someone to share experiences. As an added incentive to learn clogging, if you come with a friend and both continue to the second session, it will be $10 each. For more information, or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412384-6442, email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit the website: MonValleyCloggers.com.
Donora Historical Society Hosts Christmas Party In Lieu of Formal Meeting in December On December 5, instead of a formal meeting, the Donora Historical Society’s gathering will be held at Duke’s Café as a Christmas Party at 6:00 p.m. If you would like to attend and celebrate the holidays with the Society, call 724-3795693 or 724-379-7750 for more information and to place your reservation. Additionally, there will not be any formal historical presentations for December and January due to the holiday season; however, the museum will still be open on Saturdays for you to do some Christmas shopping.
Greater Monessen Historical Society’s Museum Shoppe Great for Holiday Gift Ideas The Museum Shoppe is stocked with many gift-giving ideas. Ethnic cookbooks, local history books and books by local authors are available. DVDs of the Slovak exhibit, Angelo Pallini: the Umbrella Man documentary by Laura Magone, and the John Husher Roast are ready for sale. Greyhound magnets, bookmarks, and postcards with old Monessen scenes make excellent stocking stuffers or can be sent in Christmas cards. Check the webpage at monessenhistoricalsociety.org or type in “Greater Monessen Historical Society” on Facebook to follow upcoming events and see photos of society activities.
Replace an old freezer and chill out with a $25 rebate. Saving $25 on a new, ENERGY STAR® qualified freezer is just the start. You’ll also continue to save on energy costs as energy-efficient freezers can yield as much as $60 in lifetime energy savings. See rebate form for details. Recycle your working freezer by calling JACO at 1-877-270-3521. For other authorized recyclers or to learn more, visit energysavePA.com or call 1-877-928-8928.
PA Freezer Rebate with Recycling $25 Total Purchase Price: $________________________________________ Name:_____________________________________________________ Street:_____________________________________________________ PA City:___________________________State:______Zip:______________
Email Address:_______________________________________________ Daytime Phone:______________________________________________
REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the January issue is DECEMBER 12
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West Penn Power Account Number (14 digits, identified on your monthly bill):________________________________
Style - chest or upright (circle one)
Defrost - manual or automatic (circle one)
Signature:______________________________ Date: _______________ By signing this form, I certify that I purchased the qualified appliance noted within for the West Penn Power (WPP) Service Address above, and I am a WPP residential electric customer. I am providing the requested information solely to be eligible to participate in WPP’s Rebate Programs and request that the personal information supplied by me be treated as confidential. I will allow a representative of West Penn Power to physically verify the product if requested.Allow 6-8 weeks for processing. ENERGY STAR qualified appliances can be identified by the ENERGY STAR label. Customers may check the status of a submitted rebate by visiting rewardsbymail.com or calling 1-866-538-1204. Questions about the rebate form should be directed to 1-877-928-8928. Rebate expires 12/31/11.
Your rebate request must include: • Completed and signed rebate coupon. • Copy of your sales receipt dated 180 days or less. • Copy of Energy Guide label from your freezer. • Copy of Appliance Turn-In Order form available from authorized recycling agency. Limit of 1 rebate coupon per household per calendar year. New freezer rebate only available when replacing and recycling existing working unit. Visit our website for recycling rebate information. Mail all required documentation to:
Freezer Rebate with Recycling Department 31041, PO Box 6110 Douglas, AZ 85655-6110
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And They’re Off! Local Residents Race into History for Donora’s 2nd Annual Smog Race By Taylor Brletich
After the success of last year’s race, the tradition of the Donora Smog Skate/Run/Walk has created a foundation for years to come. Back by popular demand, the 2nd Annual Donora Smog Race welcomed competitors to the Valley Skating Center located in Donora’s Industrial Park on the brisk morning of November 5. The 2nd Annual Smog Race began bright an early with registration at 8 a.m., followed by the 10K Skate at 9 a.m. and the 5K run/walk at 10 a.m. Tired of old-fashioned fundraising, DeAnne Pavelko, of Donora, considered the idea of hosting a race – the Smog Race – to benefit the Donora Smog Museum and Commemoration. “The Smog Race has been a huge success,” Pavelko said. “We had such great feedback last year. People who are veterans to these sorts of races commented about how organized and successful the first race turned out.” Pre- registration cost $15 for participants by the deadline, which ended on Oct. 31. Late registrations were accepted until 10 minutes prior to the start of each race at a $20 fee. The course ran the length of the Donora Industrial Park starting at the Valley Skating Center to the DonoraMonessen Bridge and back. The top three winners of each race were awarded prizes made by California University of Pennsylvania’s Ceramic Club. Prizes included handmade vases
and coffee mugs. “Everyone loved the handmade prizes designed by the students in the Ceramic Club last year. The pieces are beautiful and I am so grateful that Professor Richard Miecznikowski was willing once again to donate the student’s work as prizes for this race,” Pavelko said. While the winners were awarded the handmade prizes, no one left emptyhanded. All participants received a goody backpack that included small favors such as pens, pencils, and a nail file, along with a t-shirt designed and printed by Cal’s Professor Schickel and the Screen Printing Student Association. The gray t-shirts included the infamous smoke stacks from Donora’s industrial days, which indicate that “Clean Air Started Here” on the front of the shirt and a list of the sponsors on the back. “Professor Joseph Schickel and the students in the Screen Printing Student Association did a fabulous job finishing these t-shirt in time for the race. The shirts came in on Wednesday and they were done by Friday, and they are truly amazing!” Pavelko said. After the race, participants and their families were invited inside the Valley Skating Center for breakfast of champions. An assortment of refreshments and Marty’s Pizza of Donora and Subway provided food for the event. “The race was great! The weather was good and everyone had a great time. We raised enough money to cover the expenses for the remainder of the year for the museum,” Pavelko said.
PHOTO CREDIT: STELLA KAFTON JONES AND TAYLOR BRLETICH
BVA Eat ‘n’ Park Kicks Off Caring for Kids Campaign The annual Tips for Tots night will be held at Eat ‘n’ Park, Belle Vernon December 6 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. All tips given that night will be donated to the Caring for Kids Campaign that benefits Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh. Guest servers will include local officials, business people and others. Other fundraising efforts for the campaign include for raffle baskets, raffle tickets to win a 2012 Ford Edge and a Cash Bash that will be held on December 11 from 6 to 11 p.m. at the North Belle Vernon Fire Hall. All proceeds will go toward the Caring for Kids Campaign. To purchase raffle tickets or for more information, call 724-930-7470.
The skaters from the 10K Skate roll into victory.
The runners of the 5K run/walk race to the finish line.
The winners table consisted of handmade vases and coffee mugs made by Cal U’s Ceramics Club.
“Stan the Man” Bridge Designation Now Official In less than two months, the Route 1077 bridge over the Monongahela River will officially become the “Stan the Man Musial” Bridge. Musial, a native of Donora, Washington County, was named National Baseball League MVP three times and made 24 All-Star appearances. Now known as the DonoraMonessen Bridge, the structure carries the C. Vance DeiCas Memorial Highway (S.R. 1077) over the Monongahela River in Washington and Westmoreland counties. Sen. Tim Solobay said a re-naming event is being planned, although details are still being worked out. Musial, who played at Donora High School, went on to sign with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1938 as a pitcher. By the time he made his first major league appearance in 1941, he had been converted to the outfield and eventually accumulated more than 3,600 hits, including 475 homeruns. His three World Series titles were separated by service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After he retired in 1963, Musial became general manager of the Cardinals. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1969 and was awarded the “Presidential Medal of Freedom” in February 2011.
Monessen/Rostraver Rotary Holiday Auction Luncheon Slated for Dec. 8 The Monessen/Rostraver Rotary will hold their Annual Holiday Auction Luncheon on Thursday, December 8 at 12:00 noon. This year, the luncheon will be held at the Monongahela Valley Hospital Educational Conference Center. Tickets are $10.00 and are available by calling Gerald Stasicha at 724-929-4301 or by contacting any member of the Monessen/Rostraver Rotary. The event will include lunch, a Chinese and live auction, and raffle prizes. Proceeds from the event benefit the Monessen/Rostraver Rotary Scholarship Programs. A variety of items and gifts are included in the auction. Support the Rotary and do some Christmas shopping!
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LOCAL NEWS
New Sonogram Arrives at Monongahela Valley Hospital ED Thanks to the generosity of The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc., Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Emergency Department just received a state-of-the-art piece of equipment to better serve patients – a new portable bedside sonogram unit. “This is the latest model and represents the standard in emergency medical practice,” said Brenda Walther, M.D., medical director of the Emergency Department (ED). “It will allow our doctors and nurses to do rapid assessment of trauma Brenda Walther, M.D., (center) demonstrates how to use patients and could even MVH’s new portable sonogram to visualize major blood vespotentially decrease the need sels in the neck to more safely place a central IV catheter to transfer patients out of the into the neck vein. Student nurse intern Dawn Triscik of community to a trauma cenMonongahela is being examined, far left, and Kelly Macheska, RN, far right, assists. ter.” The equipment is called a SonoSite M-Turbo. ED Director Kelly coabdominal (chest and abdomen) Macheska, R.N., said that focused trauma. “The MVH Emergency Department ultrasound examinations provide is already state-of-the-art, and this immediate information and can equipment has been on the ED wish answer specific questions about list with its ability to provide an extra patients’ conditions as well as assist level of care,” said Dr. Walther. She with difficult procedures involving added that this equipment will also deep needle entry. To the untrained eye, the new help MVH attract and retain other talmachine could be mistaken for a com- ented physicians, who are using the puter laptop sitting waist high atop a portable tool in their training prorolling IV stand. It weights less than grams. “I can appreciate how important seven pounds. The unit can be easily rolled to a patient’s bedside and fits this gift is to the ED,” said Ruth easily into tight spaces filled with Antonelli, president of the Auxiliary and a licensed nurse. “I worked in a multiple medical staff members. “The portable ultrasound will help small ED in W.Va. smaller than MVH, reduce transfers, further increase and the faster you can help to diagpatient safety and decrease infection nose patients or rule things out, the rates,” Macheska said. “It will really better.” “As an independent hospital in the make a difference for our individual patients when we can get a quick read midst of fundraising for our substanand determine if theirs is a trauma sit- tial building projects, we appreciate these generous donations,” said Louis uation.” Macheska said the main clinical J. Panza, president and CEO of MVH. conditions that could benefit from the “We are very proud of – and amazed new portable ultrasound include by – how hard our auxiliary members ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, central line work all year to help us improve placement, deep peripheral vein line patient care.” The auxiliary has donated more placement, abdominal aortic aneurysm (weakened area of the than $3 million to Monongahela body’s largest blood vessel) and thora- Valley Hospital in the last 33 years.
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TEAM Charleroi Preparing to Celebrate the Season Students from Charleroi Area School District “painted the town” on November 18 in preparation for the upcoming holiday season. Seen here is 5th grader Phoebe Wentzell.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – TEAM Charleroi Promotions committee is currently planning to celebrate the season in downtown Charleroi. Here is an upcoming list of events: Saturday, December 3 - 11:00 a.m. Santa arrives in the hometown Holiday Parade at the Charleroi Market House. Free activities include: Visit with Santa (Treats provided by Highway Appliance), crafts, snacks and more provided by John K. Tener Library, Coyle Committee and H & R Block. Make a card for soldiers and more. Plus, enjoy holiday movies throughout the day at Dee’s Record and Video. Wednesday, December 21 - 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. “Live Nativity” presented by Charleroi Area Ministerial Association (CAMA) Charleroi Market House. The Festival of Trees takes place throughout December. Vote for your favorite tree at Colonial Florist, Dee’s Record and Video, River House Café, John K. Tener Library, Paolo’s or Prima Diva Boutique. Many other activities are planned throughout December. Please watch for additional information and a complete listing of events online at www.teamcharleroi.org.
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Charleroi Federal Savings Holds Food Drive Through December Charleroi Federal Savings Bank will conclude its 75th Anniversary theme of giving back to the local communities by conducting a food drive in all of its branch offices until December 31. This food drive will enhance the county’s ability to raise the needed funds and donations for their local food banks. President Neil D. Bassi commented, “The bank wants to help eliminate hunger in the communities in which we operate.”
South Hills Friends of the Montour Trail Continues Construction on Ramp Construction of the ramp from Triphammer Road to the Piney Fork Bridge made significant progress in early November with the placement and compaction of approximately 5,100 cubic yards of fill, most of it from the removal of the Bebout Bridge in Peters Township. Approximately 60% of the fill needed to complete the ramp has now been placed. The South Hills Friends of the Montour Trail is a group of individuals interested in the maintenance, improvement and promotion of 11 miles of Montour Trail from Library (Milepost 35.3) to Clairton (Milepost 46.3). The regular Friends meetings will move to the 2nd Tuesday of each month, beginning with the January 10 meeting. The meeting location will continue to be the South Park Community Center, located at 2675 Brownsville Road, South Park, PA, behind the Township Building. The December Friends meeting will be held on December 14 at 6:30 p.m. at 3321 Brownsville Extension, South Park. Individuals interested in attending should email the above address to confirm their attendance. Additional information concerning the trail may be obtained on the Montour Trail web site www.montourtrail.org. Activities concerning the entire Montour Trail and links to the sites of other western Pennsylvania trails are also posted on the web site.
SEND US YOUR NEWS! Mail: Mon Valley Messenger, P.O. Box 103 Finleyville, PA 15332
Phone or Fax: 412.249.8177
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Dance With Me By Sisters 3 Honors Dancers of the Month By Kara Prentice
Dance With Me By Sisters 3 (DWM3) has a secret formula for business success that’s all in the family. The Giovanelli sisters, Natalie (Giovanelli) Welsh, Jill (Giovanelli) Stiehler and Bernadette (Giovanelli) Santucci operate the dance studio located at 609 Main Street in Bentleyville. They celebrated their 5th year anniversary in May 2011 and look forward to continuing to instruct a variety of dance classes in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop and acro/gymnastics for ages 3 to 18. The classes are suited for those seeking recreational and/or competiDWM3 dancers accept their tive dance experiences. DWM3 proDancer of the Month awards. grams are unique because they feature a Dancer of the Month concept that recognizes dancers for numerous positive behaviors they demonstrate during dance lessons. Hard work, skills improvement, team orientation, kindness, respect, confidence, positive attitude and good attendance are among the qualities and dancer actions most often cited for the award. Students Teighan Finley, Maggie McCort, Gianna Petersen and Emma Pohill are recently selected recipients. Teighan, from Millsboro, is 10 years old. Maggie is 7 years old and lives in Washington, PA. Gianna is also from Millsboro and has decided to focus on ballet, tap, jazz and acro/gymnastics study. Emma resides in Richeyville and is enrolled in both the Mini Diva class and Intro to Tap. The girls will continue to work hard through the winter in preparation for the competitive dance season, which begins in February 2012. Twenty girls are expected to represent DWM3 in solo, duet and group categories. They look forward to adding to their growing collection of platinum and gold scores and high dance rankings when challenged by other accomplished dancers around the region. Registration is also ongoing for the 2011-2012 dance year. Email DWM3 at dancesisters3@hotmail.com for more information on how you can get started in the program. Also visit the websitewww.dancewithmebysisters3.com and follow the dancers’ latest achievements on Facebook. The telephone number for the studio is 724-239-3113.
Cal U Bolsters Campus Police California University of Pennsylvania (Cal U) will add three officers to its university police department and purchase two more patrol cars for the campus police force to strengthen security on Cal U's main campus in California, PA, and on its nearby south campus. The additional officers and patrol cars will also be used to assist the California Borough Police Department as needed. This move is in response to off-campus crimes (none of which occurred on campus) because Cal U is fully committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for its students. Cal U's campus police force currently has three patrol cars and 16 fully trained officers, three dispatchers/security officers, and an administrative assistant. Two parking officers patrol campus parking lots, as well.
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Monongahela Area Library Hosts Vendor Show
While adults shopped in the main section of the library, children enjoyed crafts and holiday entertainment in the Activity Room. Plenty of girls and women enjoyed getting glamorous for the holiday event with feather extensions.
Monongahela Area Library recently held a fundraising event by hosting a vendor show. The vendor show was hosted by the Friends of the Library over the course of two days. An emphasis was placed on getting many local crafts people as well vendor reps. The Friends pledged the proceeds of the event to replacing the damaged ceiling tiles in the library that had mounted up over the time the roof was in need of repair.
Even Mrs. Santa Claus stopped by the Monongahela Area Library's Craft & Vendor show during the community's "Santa Claus is Shopping in Town" event. Here she's checking out the handmade dolls, aprons and eyeglass cases offered for sale by Irene Dzimiera.
WCCC Choir and Orchestra to Perform Holiday Concerts December 9 and 10 The Westmoreland County Community College orchestras and choir will perform holiday concerts Friday, December 9 and Saturday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the Science Hall Theater, Youngwood campus. The December 9 “Journey By Candlelight” concert will feature performances by the WCCC Chamber Orchestra and the WCCC Full Orchestra, under the direction of Deborah Hilewick. The musical selections will range from classical to popular favorites such as “Fantasia on Greensleeves” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” The WCCC Community Choir and Symphonic Band will perform December 10 under the direction of Dr. Roderick Todd Booker, WCCC instructor of music. Among the selections is “We Three Kings,” which has been dedicated to the WCCC Choir and Booker by noted choral composer Jay Althouse, who arranged the piece. For the finale, the choir and symphonic band will combine to perform several holiday arrangements. Concert tickets are $5 each for general admission seating. Tickets are available at the door or in advance Mondays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Science Hall at the WCCC Youngwood Campus.
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Going Green In Monessen: Job Training and Career Opportunities for LowIncome Westmoreland County Residents Available The Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. would like to announce the organization’s Pathways Out of Poverty program expansion to Westmoreland County. The Pathways Out of Poverty program, funded by a $2.7 Million federal stimulus grant, has been in operation for almost two years serving Fayette and Washington Counties and seeks to “Promote Self-Sufficiency through the Efficient and Renewable Energy Sectors.” In Fayette and Washington County, participants enrolled in the Pathways program were successfully trained and placed in a variety of local green jobs. Green employers who hire Pathways participants are able to benefit from on-the-job training and a variety of classroom training funds, thereby offsetting the cost of hiring and training new employees. The end result is a higher household income for families and an increase in the hiring capabilities of green employers. The decision to expand program services to Westmoreland County was based on high unemployment rates and low-household income in the area. The Pathways program aims to address these issues by providing free assessment services, career counseling, classroom and on the job-training, and jobplacement assistance; thereby equipping individuals with the necessary skills to enter into the Green workforce. Once enrolled, participants benefit from a variety of classroom trainings including but not limited to OSHA Training, Solar Power Training, Geothermal Training, and Wind Power Training. Each renewable energy training, administered through the
Education and Technology Institute (ETI), is approximately one week in length. Once participants complete their training program, they are able to benefit from job-placement assistance services through Pathways. The first Monessen energy training is scheduled to begin on December 6, 2011 and enrollments are currently being taken. In addition to career services, supportive services are available to Pathways participants who may have certain barriers to obtaining employment and a daily training stipend is provided while enrolled in a Pathways training. The Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. invites Westmoreland residents, employers, and social service agencies to take part in promoting and utilizing the Pathways program in an effort to connect low-income families with sustainable wages. Westmoreland and Washington County residents who are interested in obtaining additional information on Green job training are encouraged to call (724) 684-9000 ext. 4408 or visit the new Monessen, Private Industry Council office located in the Monessen Municipal Complex, Suite 340, on One Wendell Ramey Lane. Office hours are 8:30-4:30pm, Monday thru Friday. Green employers who are interested in hiring ready-to -work Pathways Participants can contact the Pathway’s Job Developer Doug McDonough at (724) 437-2590. Employers who are not sure if their company or business qualifies as a Green employer may also contact Doug McDonough to set up a free consultation.
Monongahela Eat 'N Park Holds Fundraisers for Children's Hospital Sock Hop – December 1 at Hey Andy’s in Monongahela Holiday Bash – December 3 at the Monongahela Fire Hall Tips for Tots – December 7 at the Monongahela Eat ‘n’ Park, featuring teachers from Ringgold North and South. Round Up, Round Up your Change for Children’s Hospital – December 8 through 12 at the Monongahela Eat ‘n’ Park.
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Bentleyville Borough Grants Keystone Collections Use of Office Space By Alice Harris
The November Bentleyville Borough council meeting opened with a representative from Keystone Collections, who will administer the collection of local earned income tax as established by Act 32 under Governor Rendell, stating they would like office space in the Borough but can pay no rent. Last month Council approved office space for Keystone at the rate of $250 per month. When asked if they could pay rent next year, the representative did not know. Solicitor Makel brought up the question of liability and insurances to which she replied they should be covered under Washington County Tax Collection insurance and she would have to inquire about paying rent the next year. After a period of discussion, a motion was approved to rent Keystone office space at no cost for one year provided they hold the borough harmless and that they add the Borough as a beneficiary to their insurance to be in the $1-2,000,000 amount. Solicitor Makel will work out
the details. A motion to advertise the model EIT and LST ordinances with Council’s exemptions was approved. It is required that these ordinances be advertised three times. A sharing of half the cost (approximately $670 each) with Bentworth School District to mail these letters to residents advising them of the new tax was approved. In a question as the whether more or less tax revenue will be collected under the new tax law, it was explained that initially not, but down the line it should as the new tax will be required to be deducted by the employer. The resignation of Ken Carlisle from his seat on the Planning Commission that expires 5-31-14 has been accepted. A motioned to advertise for a replacement to fill his seat was approved. Advertisement for a holding tank ordinance number 545 was approved. The advertisement of a budget and tax rate ordinances were approved. A motion to allocate $18,500 (up
$1,000 from 2010) was approved. A resolution to support PCSA and BMA local share account applications by Pigeon Creek Sanitation Authority for their Plant Improvement Project was approved. A motion to support Bentleyville Municipal Authority for their 2012 water line replacement project was approved, also. A motion to approve destroying old earned income tax records from 1980-2001 according to resolution 6 of 2011, records retention act was approved. A subdivision of two parcels of land owned by Tomsic Motor Company (part in Bentleyville Borough and the other in Pike Run Township) to build a compressor station which lies entirely in Pike Township, was deferred to West Pike. A motion to purchase two live traps from Tractor Supply to loan to residents to secure feral cats until Animal Control can pick them up was approved. Residents can borrow these traps for 7 days with a $25 deposit to be returned when the trap is brought back in good condition.
A motion to refinance the current mortgage of the Municipal Complex at 4? % fixed loan for 5 years with Charleroi Federal was approved. Paying an extra payment per year was also approved. The refinancing will reflect an overall savings of $58,000 and the extra payment will reflect an additional savings of $23-24,000 at the end. In other news: The Police contract will renew at the end of the year. Any revisions will have to be made before then. A stop sign has been installed at Spring St. Resident water drainage problems cited at the October meeting have been taken care of. A littler will be sent to Fairpointe thanking them for providing three poles. $61.41 was collected from the parking meters this month. Additional day and night cameras for Richardson Park were approved with the change of scope of the budget to include these cameras and mulch approved, also.
Middle School Student Receives Award of Excellence at Carroll Township Meeting By Miranda Startare
At the November 3rd Carroll Twp. Board of Supervisors meeting, Chief of Police Paul Brand commended Ringgold Middle School student, Jaci Brice, for her efforts in assisting one of her peers during a medical emergency on the school bus on September 27, 2011. Chief Brand recounted the events of that morning before giving Jaci Brice an Award of Excellence for going “above and beyond” and for displaying superb citizenship. On the morning of September 27, 2011, there was an accident on Rt. 88 by Giant Eagle. Traffic, and buses, were delayed. Chief Brand received a
call for an emergency on Bus 21 on Rt. 837. After arriving at the scene, Brand discovered a student appearing to have a seizure. Jaci Brice, who is a 7th grader at Ringgold Middle School, was holding the girl’s head and caring for her. As the chief was assessing the situation and awaiting an ambulance (which also was delayed due to the traffic), he and Jaci both cared for the girl. Jaci informed Chief Brand of the girl’s seizure history and pertinent information. According to Chief Brand, Jaci was exceptionally helpful, calm, and caring. She displayed qualities not often seen in emergency situations, even in many adults. In other business: • Resident Bill Blangger complained
of the condition of roads and vacant houses on Victory Hill. The Board assured Mr. Blangger that the houses in question are slated to be demolished soon. Also, the Victory Hill area will be part of a paving project that will likely occur in 2012. • The final 2012 budget will be approved at the next meeting, scheduled for Dec. 6, 2011. There will be no tax increase. • Board acknowledged receipt of $13, 339.45 per the 2012 PennDOT Winter Maintenance Agreement. PHOTO BY MIRANDA STARTARE
Carroll Twp. Police Chief Paul Brand gives an Award of Excellence to 7th grader Jaci Brice at the Nov. 3, 2011 Board Meeting.
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No City Tax Increase in 2012 for Monongahela By Ken Askew
Jason Beck, of Boy Scout Troop 1131, opened the November 9, 2011 meeting of Monongahela City Council by outlining a project he is proposing for his Eagle Scout project. He has offered to renovate the Mounds baseball field dugouts, by replacing the roofs and painting the walls. Council was pleased to approve the project. Next, the Girl Scouts were represented by Cassie Lignelli, who proposed to establish walking trails for her Gold Award and senior project. The trails will be one and two miles long, centered at the Monongahela Library. Likewise, Council was enthusiastic about her idea. Last month, Anthony Neccia, Jr. complained about excessive mud or dust on Route 837, where trucks exit the Monongahela Iron & Metal Company site. The facility’s owner pledged to lay coarse stone at the exit to alleviate debris being tracked onto the highway, but failed to do so. Then, Neccia introduced the two new business owners of G&H Quality Auto Care, at 130 E. Main Street in Monongahela (former site of an Amoco gas station). One of the owners, Howard Henninger, spoke about his concerns for kids getting off the school bus on the busy road by his business, but was referred to Ringgold School District for future discussions for change. He also requested and was given the OK to place a jersey barrier across a back street near his business. Carol Frye, of the Monongahela Area Historical Society was pleased to report that 150 people attended a book signing with her co-author Laura Magone, for their new historical book titled Monongahela City. Copies are available at the Society building at 230 West Main Street in Monongahela, or by calling 724-258-6432, or on their website at www.monongahelahistoricalsociety.com Joe Muntan, Assistant Fire Chief in Monongahela, announced that the fire department will be conducting a boot drive on November 19 from 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. to raise funds for a local young girl with leukemia. Sarah Phillips made yet another appearance to appeal for a crackdown on derelict buildings in the City. She asked those in attendance to raise their hands if they want to live near: A drug house? Junked cars? Too many vehicles crowded on a property? A backhoe or dump truck in a backyard? A tractor-trailer? A backyard
filled with junk, building supplies, carpeting, or toys? A front porch cluttered with junk? High grass? Overgrown bushes blocking the view? A property where taxes are not paid? Of course, hands did not go up. Then, she requested that City ordinances be posted online, to make them readily accessible. When asked why community standards were not being maintained, she was told that Ordinance vioThe 2nd Reading of Bill 6-2011, “Police Pension Eligibility” was approved; no details were provided. Councilman Tom Caudill submitted the following 2012 budget for consideration: $723,730 Public Affairs $1,183,817 Accounts & Finance $112,500 Public Safety $440,783 Streets & Improvements $69,600 Parks & Property $2,530,430 Total Expenditures $2,474,931 Total Income -2,530,430 Total Expenditures $ (55,499) Difference Nevertheless, the tax millage remains at 23 mills. The Monongahela Library sent a thank-you letter to the City in appreciation of their donation to the Library roofing project. Recycling bins will be installed at the Mounds recreation area and the Aquatorium by the end of the month. Proceeds will be earmarked for city parks. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has agreed to take corrective action along the hillside in the 800-block of Route 837, where 200’ of pipe is dumping wastewater from the old Black Diamond Mine. Renovation of the Aquatorium is proceeding—new bleacher seats will be installed in two weeks. Congratulations were extended to Mayor Bob Kepics and Councilman Ken Kulak on their re-election to office. On November 18, Santa Claus will arrive at the City parking lot next to the Slovak Club at 6:30 p.m., followed by an appearance at First Federal Savings at 7:00 p.m.
New Tobacco-Free Zones Announced at Donora Council Meeting By Miranda Startare
At the November 10, 2011 Donora Council meeting, a new policy was approved that is intended to help Donora children to make good choices concerning tobacco use – and protect their health. The voluntary compliance policy is based on a Penn State program, “Young Lungs at Play,” and does not allow the use of tobacco products on Donora Borough-owned park land, park facilities, or school properties. Signs (provided free of charge by the program) will soon be erected in these areas to support this policy. Another child safety issue was discussed concerning some drivers speeding past bus stops and not abiding school bus laws. Councilman William Hevia urged residents to use caution near students and bus stops and warned that local police will be watching drivers. In other business: Donora resident Louise Kowall expressed concern about feral cats roaming the neighborhood, leaving waste in her yard. Council instructed Mrs. Kowall to obtain traps from the Borough and take any trapped strays to the Borough Garage. Animal Control will then be called to take the strays to shelters.
Mrs. Kowall also discussed the safety of sidewalks in front of her house on Meldon Avenue. The sidewalks have been torn up during the completion of area’s sewer work. With the upcoming winter season, Mrs. Kowall is concerned that she and others won’t be able to clear the incomplete sidewalks, thus creating a liability issue should someone fall. Council will be contacting the contractor working on the project (Fleming-Walker) to urge them to complete the sidewalk repairs quickly. The Code Enforcement Officer will also be taking photos of the sidewalks to document their condition. The Emergency Operations Manager of Donora, Donald Pavelko, is requesting 10-15 volunteers to receive training to form an American Red Cross Emergency Evacuation Team. Interested volunteers are asked to send a letter of intent or contact The Donora Borough offices at 724-379-6600. A $300 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person(s) who broke into and robbed the parking meters on Thompson, Meldon, and McKean Avenues and the Sixth Street parking garage over the past few weeks. Please call the Borough Administrator at 724-379-6600 with any information. Information will remain confidential. The Salvation Army is in need of volunteers for the annual kettle campaign. Interested volunteers may contact Mayor Lignelli at 724-379-6600.
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Property Tax Reform Grass Roots Support Needed for House Bill 1776 By Paul Chasko
State Representative Rick Saccone and Representatives Jim Cox (R-129, Berks County) and Rep. George Dunbar (R-56 Westmoreland County) are supporting hearings and passage of House Bill 1776, which would totally eliminate property taxes and switch PA education funding to a consumption-based tax plan with more control on education spending at the school district level. These representatives were in Finleyville on November 10 conducting an open forum on the subject of property tax reform and Representative pitching for much-needed grass roots support for passage Jim Cox (Berks County) of House Bill 1776, the Property Tax Independence Act. explains the goals of They were joined by David Baldinger, PTCC (PA Taxpayer House Bill 1776. Cyber Coalition) Administrator. Baldinger is a walking information resource and avid supporter of the proposed tax plan. The intent of the forum was to educate the public on the bill and to solicit support for its passage into law. The most salient features of the bill were summarized at the forum: 1) The proposed Act completely eliminates the taxing ability of local school boards. The only allowed tax would be an optional EIT or personal income tax for major projects, and that would be subject to a no-exception taxpayer referendum. 2) The Act would be funded through a moderate expansion of the sales tax base to include more goods and services that are not now taxed with basic necessities such as utilities, home heating fuels, and health-related expenses as exceptions. 3) The Act would increase the PA Personal Income Tax (PIT) by 0.92% from 3.07% to 3.99%. This is essentially a dollar-for-dollar swap for the elimination of the 0.5% EIT and local nuisance taxes. 4) Under the first phase of the plan, all school districts would initially receive 100% funding sufficient to meet all financial objectives, but a per-student expenditure level would be established for each district. This initial funding level will receive yearly base increases indexed to the rate of inflation. Upward or downward adjustments in funding will also be made to account for increases or decreases in student enrollment. 5) Proposed companion legislation to the Property Tax Independence Act will provide for a constitutional amendment, which guarantees that, once replaced,
David Baldinger, PA Taxpayer Cyber Coalition Administrator, and Representative Jim Cox discuss the tax issue.
Representative Rick Saccone keeps the forum moving along.
school property taxes would be gone forever and that future legislature could never reinstitute the taxing of our properties. Further details of the plan are available at www.ptcc.us. The state representatives and Baldinger are actively urging taxpayers to get behind the passage of the Property Tax Independence Act by signing one of the many petitions being circulated throughout PA supporting passage of the Act and writing to their state Representative Rick Saccone explains his point representatives, senators, and Governor of view to one of the attendees at the Property Corbett adding voice to their support or Tax Forum held November 10 in Finleyville. by forming a local advocacy group. Representative Saccone stated that forums, like the one conducted in Finleyville, held throughout PA have clearly indicated that property tax reform is a major concern of taxpayers. Representative Cox and Baldinger made it clear that past “partial fixes” were dismal failures and that action must be taken now. They urged taxpayers to go to the www.ptcc.us website to gather more details on this important legislation and to support its passage.
No Borough Tax Increase in 2012 for New Eagle By Ken Askew
At their monthly meeting on November 1, 2011, New Eagle Borough Council announced that the 2012 budget includes no change in the Borough’s 34-millage tax rate. The 2012 budget of $591,275 is just slightly higher than the 2011 budget of $588,576. An increase of 10.91% for Police expenditures was offset by reductions of 0.96% in the General Government category, and 4.42% earmarked for Public Works. The Borough charge for garbage service remains at $95 per year.
Due to the resignation of Councilwoman Rona Berdar, effective October 4, 2011, William Sherry was sworn into office to complete the remaining two years of her term. A 10-year resident of New Eagle, Sherry was the only person to submit a letter of interest for the Council position. The New Eagle volunteer firemen have selected June 9, 2012 as the next date for their annual car cruise. To reduce speeding traffic, Council has been asked to install stop signs on Monroe St., at the 1st Ave. and 3rd Ave. intersections. Since the signs are not in stock, they will have to be ordered.
To facilitate removal of snow from Main Street when the accumulation is at least 5 – 6 inches, Council tasked Solicitor Berggren to develop an ordinance which would require that vehicles parked on Main Street during such weather conditions must be moved to Chess Street until Main Street is cleared of snow. A question was asked as to whether New Eagle had an officially designated disaster shelter. Consensus was that the Firemen’s Social Hall on Chess Street would serve that purpose. However, a shelter as defined and approved by the Red Cross will not be
pursued, due to their extensive contractual requirements. Another question was raised, about the high cost of worker’s compensation insurance for the Borough. Council felt that their rate is indeed very high, but noted that the plan covers both the volunteer firemen and the two Borough employees. A factor in pushing up the rate is that the Borough has suffered three disability claims in the past ten years by their employees. Council has attempted to get insurance through other carriers, but only the current agency is willing to insure them.
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Business & Merchant News Back to the Rack Consignment and Gift Shop Holds Re-Opening Ceremony
(l-r) Kim Redman, Bernie Zunic, GRC board members, Tami Puckey, owner, Charla Peters, sales, and Debby Puglia, GRC board member.
A grand re-opening ribbon cutting was recently held at Back to the Rack Consignment and Gift Shop. Shop owner Tami Puckey has relocated the store to a larger space, now located at 303 Broad Avenue, Belle Vernon. In addition to men’s, women’s, children’s and infants consignments, the shop now offers floral arrangements, jewelry, Avon product,s and candles. Back to the Rack is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 12 to 6p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 12 to 5p.m. Consignment items are accepted regularly. For more information, please call 724-243-3095.
Rostraver Women’s Club and Area Businesses “Help Neighbors” This Holiday Rostraver Women’s Club, in collaboration with Greater Rostraver, Monongahela Area, and Mon Valley Regional chambers of commerce; Chaney’s Natural Health; and other local businesses would like to help our neighbors by giving to local families in need this holiday season. We will be collecting new items until December 14 at the following drop off locations: Greater Rostraver Chamber, 606 Broad Ave., 2nd Floor, Belle Vernon; Mon Valley Regional Chamber, One Chamber Plaza, Charleroi; Monongahela Area Chamber, 212 West Main Street, Monongahela; and Chaney’s Natural Health, 138 West Main Street, Monongahela. Items collected will be packaged and distributed the week prior to Christmas. Please be generous in your donations. In many instances, the recipient families may have children of varying ages. Please feel free to donate any item(s) you can, and items will be paired with the best family. Money also makes a great donation. All money collected will be used to purchase additional items or to offer financial support to recipient families, if possible. Checks can be made payable to Rostraver Women’s Club. If you know a family in need or you are a family in need, please contact Tanya Chaney for more information at 724-328-2834 or chaneysadmin@gmail.com.
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Published Monthly by Haniford Enterprises, LLC
BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS
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Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Hosts Business Showcase
Contact us: P.O. Box 103 Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone/Fax: (412) 249-8177 E-mail: news@monvalleymessenger.com The Mon Valley Messenger is published during the last week of the month preceding the issue date. It is available FREE of charge at over 150 area locations throughout the Mon Valley communities. Subscriptions are also available. Owner/Publisher Douglas E. Haniford Editor Christen Stroh Editorial Coordinator Judy Gramm Contributing Writers Ken Askew, Alice Harris, Samantha Milton, Paul Chasko,Kara Prentice, Holly Tonini, Miranda Startare Photography Alice Harris, Ron Pudlowski, Paul Chasko, Lexie Dabin, Cristi Caughman Advertising Manager Judi Robbins Advertising Sales Lisa Tomosky, Charmaine Nebash, Renee Schoedel, Kelly Frost, Craig Boytim, Samantha Milton Business Development & Promotions John Mollenauer Art Director JMC Graphics adsjmcgraphics@aol.com (412) 835-5796
Lots of networking opportunities were available at the Business Showcase. Lori Coury, River House Cafe, and John Mollenauer, Mon Valley Messenger
By Ken Askew
If you wanted to promote your business, you should have been at the first annual Business Showcase, sponsored by the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce. The event was held on November 16, 2011 in the Natali Performance Center building, on the campus of California University of Pennsylvania. The free event was open to the public. The US Small Business Administration, plus a variety of 49
PHOTOS CREDIT:CREDIT KEN ASKEW AND ALICE HARRIS businesses, with names spanning the alphabet from “A” to “W” (Affordable Health Insurance to Wohar Chiropractic Health Center) were in attendance. Since the Showcase was open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, networking opportunities were abundant. The Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, celebrating its 90th anniversary, serves the following communities: Belle Vernon, Bentleyville, Carroll Township, Charleroi, Donora, Dunlevy, Monessen, Monongahela, New Eagle, Rostraver, Speers, and
other places in-between. Their office is located on the 1st floor of One Chamber Plaza, Charleroi, PA 15022. More information about the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce can be found on their website at www.mvrchamber.org, via email at info@mvrchamber.org, or by phone at 724-483-3507. Next year’s Business Showcase will also be held at California University of Pennsylvania, but in the new Convocation Center.
Editorial Policy The Mon Valley Messenger publishes community news free of charge. We welcome the submission of articles, news releases, community announcements, editorials and letters for publication. The Mon Valley Messenger will accept information via telephone, e-mail, Fax, or U.S. mail. Articles submitted without the complete name, address and telephone number of the author will not be printed. All submissions are subject to editing for length, clarity and taste. Photographs will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Deadline for submissions is the 12th day of the month preceding issue date. © Mon Valley Messenger and Haniford Enterprises, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. We reserve the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at anytime. The opinionsexpressed in the Mon Valley Messenger are those of the author, and not necessarily of the Mon Valley Messenger.
For advertising information, call (412) 249-8177 or e-mail info@monvalleymessenger.com
Miranda Startare, left, and Judi Robbins, were at the event on behalf of the Mon Valley Messenger
Milton Kubik, Treasurer of the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, staffed the MVRCC booth, and sold ticket for gift baskets and other drawings.
Don’t Be Left Out of Our Mon Valley Messenger Business & Merchant Section. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177
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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS
Bentleyville Business Offers Assistance to Local Residents with Real Estate Problems Real Estate problems are all over today and that is why Quaker State Properties is striving to help. The team at Quaker State Properties works in our areas to help support the betterment of the communities we live and work in. The team is proud to announce that they are looking to grow into more services to help our area. While Quaker State Properties is growing by local demand, the team is also working to build a Realty office named Acquire Realty to offer more services for their customers. They hope to open the doors in a few months. Ken and Carmina George have run A few years back when Ken Quaker State LLC since 2009. George, who resides in Bentleyville, found himself out of work and looking for a job, he started reading financial books while trying to improve his situation. Ken, along with his wife, Carmina, a NICU nurse, founded Quaker State Properties, LLC in 2009. While continuing to work their day jobs and raise their sons, they also work hard as young entrepreneurs while trying to help people. This is one dedicated team to our area, just last year they helped Bentleyville council see the need to hire South West Regional Police Department. Quaker State Properties seeks to purchase foreclosures, estates needing liquidation, apartment buildings, and properties that have fallen into disrepair. They then work to fix them up to be attractive again and resell or rent to bring pride and improvement to the community. They have many options from cash purchases and they can even help land lords that want to retire with a few different programs. Anyone needing help with any property situation or to discuss options can reach Ken or Carmina via the Quaker State Properties website (http://www.quakerstateproperties.com) or by phone at 724-239-3000 or 724-986-3728.
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North Belle Vernon Dairy Queen Holds Grand Re-opening Ceremony
Members of the Stratigos family along with GRC board members gathered for the grand re-opening of the North Belle Vernon Dairy Queen on Fayette Street. Owners Harry and Becki Stratigos recently purchased the NBV Dairy Queen and completed many renovations. The store includes a drive-thru window, extensive lunch and dinner menu and is now open year round! They also own the Rostraver Dairy Queen on Rt. 51 as well. In attendance at the ribbon cutting were family members George and Eva Stratigos, owners Harry and Becki, Denise Shrader, Chrisan and Jim Olah. Officials from DQ included Lou Lynn, Judy Lynn Craig, Jordan Craig, Jamie Hoff and Roileen Schimmel. The DQ Staff, GRC Board Members and NBV Council Members were also in attendance. DQ lunch and ice cream cake were served to all afterwards, compliments of the Stratigos family!
Holiday Event in Monongahela Enjoyed by All The Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce, Slagle Roofing, Inc. and Peoples Natural Gas hosted the Santa Claus is Shopping in Town event on Friday, November 18, 2011. We would like to thank Dettores Pizza, Del Rosa’s Pizza, First Federal Savings Bank, First Niagara Bank, Hitch’s Hut and Direkens Pharmacy for their generous donations. We would also like to thank students from Madonna Catholic Regional School and Ringgold Elementary School South for decorating the Christmas trees located in Chess Park and First Niagara Courtyard. The trees were donated by Lone Oak Farm, Monongahela, PA. We also would like to thank the Monongahela/Donora Lions Club & Ringgold Marching Band for escorting Santa Claus to his house located at First Federal Savings Bank. Santa passed out treats to all, while Grilli’s Studio was available to take photos with Santa. Santa was so busy he had elves from First Federal Savings Bank help him. Luminaries led the path for Santa from Sheetz to the Tasty Twist in New Eagle.
A special thank you goes to the Country Clovers 4-H group, Ringgold Interact Club, New Eagle Bakery, Keystone Bakery and Bartman, Inc. Local business windows were beautifully painted by the Ringgold Art Students and Ms. Teresa Campa. Many businesses in the community held open houses and raffles. We would like to thank everyone who contributed and made this a very successful event. We are grateful for the the music of DJ’s Rock It Randy, Disco Inferno ~ Bill Lemon & performance from DNA in Chess Park, as well as dances performed by the Dance Company by Lori and Carolers from the Ringgold Middle School Raz Ma Taz Choir. The biggest hit was the live Nativity performed by the members of the First Baptist Church. Thank you for reminding us the reason for the season. Again, many thanks to those who participated & to those who helped prepare for this event! Merry Christmas to all from the Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce.
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ORTHOPAEDICS
ASK the
EXPERTS THESE AREA SERVICE PROVIDERS ARE HERE TO ANSWER ALL YOUR QUESTIONS... If you have questions for our expert, send your questions to UNION FINLEY MESSENGER, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 or e-mail news@unionfinley.com
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Q: What are some of the most common problems seen by an orthopaedist?
A: Arthritis of the knees, hips, and shoulders. Sports injuries, such as meniscus (cartilage) and ligament tears. Rotator cuff tears and carpal tunnel syndrom.
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Q: What are some new developments in orthopaedics? A: All of the joint replacements we have now last longer and many can be done through less invasive techniques. We have injections that can possibly rebuild worn-out joint surfaces. We can perform carpal tunnel releases through tiny incisions, and we can fix rotator cuffs with poke hole incisions. Advanced Surgical Hospital 100 Trich Drive, Suite 1, Washington, PA 15301 724-884-0710
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REAL ESTATE
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Q: How can I improve the value of our home? A: First and foremost, every home is a place to live and
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Q: How do most people use infrared heaters? A: Electric infrared heaters produce heat very quickly, and the heat is easily directed to the space in a very precise beam. Because you're not heating all the air in the entire room, electric infrared heaters use less energy to heat up the room at a much faster speed. Infrared heaters are great for instant heat on those chilly mornings. Save your feet from the cold tile on the floor in the kitchen or bathroom with an infrared heater! 2214 Rt. 88, Dunlevy (Exit 40 off Interstate 70, and just minutes off Rt. 43) 724-326-5616 www.highwayappliance.com
relax away from the outside world and a place to build cherished family memories. But a home is also an investMary Lou Enrietto ment – perhaps the most important investment you will ever make. There are many small steps you can take over the years to increase its value, comfort, and marketability should the time come to sell it and move. The following are some cost-effective ways to treat your home like the investment it is meant to be: • Curb appeal: First impressions are important, and regular maintenance shows. A well-kept lawn, tidy landscaping, neatly painted exterior, and a nice front door will show pride of ownership and pride in the neighborhood. • Fresh paint: One of the most cost-effective boosts to any home is a fresh coat of interior paint. If selling your home is on the agenda, choose neutral shades. • Update kitchen: Dated counters, cabinets, and floors can be a real turn-off to buyers. Investing in granite, tile, and/or remodeled cabinetry will increase your own enjoyment as well as make a major difference in resale value. • Update windows: Double-paned windows are a worthwhile investment. They will shut out noise, help regulate indoor temperature, and add value to your home • Update baths: Attractive bathrooms are always noticed, and some updates can cost as little as $100. Call one of our experienced agents at Northwood Realty Services for more detailed information and helpful hints. Pleasant Hills Office 5301 Clairton Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412-885-8530
Peters Township Office 4215 Washington Road McMurray, PA 15301 724-941-3340
Monongahela Office 214 West Main Street Monongahela, PA 15063 724-292-1040
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Local Worship Catholic Women’s College Club Celebrates Past Members with Mass of Remembrance A Mass of Remembrance was celebrated November 7, 2011 by the Rev. Pierre Falkenhan of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Donora. The mass was dedicated to the deceased women of the Catholic Women’s College Club. Thirty-five members were present to participate. Organist for the evening was Arthur Fronzaglio. Members also brought nonperishable items for the St. Vincent de Paul food bank, which were collected in the church. Following the mass, members gathered for their monthly meeting in the school cafeteria. Tables were beautifully decorated with fall-colored leaves, sprigs of autumn berries and mini pumpkins and gourds. Mary Gene Delsandro, chairperson for the November meeting, welcomed everyone. Her committee for the month was: Carin Alvarez, Camilla Ferrara, Donna Pustelak, Jo Anna Stroh and Susan Tegi. President Susan Gessner called the meeting to order. The committee served a Thanksgiving gelatin dessert with a variety of sweet breads and beverages during the meeting. The minutes were read by Secretary Marie Feick and the treasurer’s report was given by Sally Keeney. Both were approved. Committee reports were given by Noreen Fazzini, Charitable Services, and Dorothy Jozwiak, Welfare. It was brought to the club’s attention that in the past that they were to have donated a monetary gift to the Flight 93 Memorial. It was questioned if the donation was made. This proposal will be
reviewed and acted upon accordingly. The holy woman of the Bible who was recognized for November’s meeting is Hannah. Pustelak gave a brief presentation on this remarkable and interesting woman, revealing her thankfulness and dedication for answered prayers. Paper tablets were given to the women so that they too, may reflect, take note, and be thankful for prayers that have been answered. Ferrara held a prayer service remembering the deceased members of the club form the past decade. Votive candles were distributed to members asking that sometime throughout the month of November it is lit and prayers are said for someone who is deceased. The gift of the month, A Thanksgiving wreath, was won by Martha Ghilani. The wreath is a circle reminding us that thankfulness should never end. Members of the club were grateful for the recent publicity of club news in the Mon Valley Messenger and were happy to receive copies of the paper. Lisa Foglia, chairperson for the December 5 meeting, informed members that the Christmas dinner will be held at the Alpine in Monessen beginning at 6:00 p.m. New members are always welcome; anyone interested in joining the Catholic Women’s College Club can contact a current member for more information.
How About a Big Dose of True Christmas Spirit? The combined St. Francis of Assisi Choir and the Christmas brass ensemble of “Too Many Tubas” will present an Advent Program welcoming Christmas with music, prayer, and scriptural readings. Admission is free. Please come and join us for a celebration of Christmas. Everyone is welcome. We guarantee you’ll catch the Spirit. Sunday, December 11, 7 pm, Saint Francis of Assisi Church, Just North of Finleyville off Route 88.
Coming in January
HEALTH NUTRITION & FITNESS
Call today for advertising opportunities: 412-249-8177
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LOCAL WORSHIP
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Area Church News... Area Church News.. Pricedale Union Church Presents the Living Christmas Tree Pricedale Union Church Choir presents The Glory of Christmas – The Living Christmas Tree on December 9, 10 and 11 at 7 p.m. each evening. The Pricedale Union Church is located at 203 Johnson Avenue, Belle Vernon. For more information, call 724-929-9588 or visit the website at www.pricedaleunionchurch.org.
Lumber River Quartet to Perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy Lumber River Quartet of Lumberton, NC, will perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy, 411 4th Avenue, New Eagle, on Friday, December 30 at 7 p.m. Crimson Stream, local southern gospel quartet, will open for them. For more information, call (724) 379-4304.
Christ Lutheran Church December Events December 8 at 6:00 p.m., decorating of the church. Light refreshments will be served. Week of December 18 - Live Nativity at the Market House in Charleroi. December 24 at 9:00 p.m., Christmas Eve Service, an evening of carols, Communion, and candlelight. December 25 at 9:30 a.m., worship
service. Details will be online at teamcharleroi.org or you may call the church at 724-483-4908 for exact dates.
Christ Lutheran Church December Events December 8 at 6:00 p.m., decorating of the church. Light refreshments will be served. Week of December 18 - Live Nativity at the Market House in Charleroi. December 24 at 9:00 p.m., Christmas Eve Service, an evening of carols, Communion, and candlelight. December 25 at 9:30 a.m., Worship Service. Details will be in the Valley Independent, or online at teamcharleroi.org or you may call the church at 724-483-4908 for exact dates.
Grocery Bingo at Holy Ghost Church A Grocery Bingo is held every Sunday afternoon at Holy Ghost Church Social Center, 9th Street and Meadow Avenue, Charleroi. No bingo will be held on December 25 and January 1. Donation is $.50 per four-way card. Special, Jackpot, and Winner-Take-All games are for cash prizes. Doors open at 12:30 and the games begin at 1:30 p.m. The public is welcome. For additional information, call the Social Center at 724489-0500.
St. John Byzantine Catholic Church Selling Carpathian Cookery Cookbook The Carpathian Cookery cookbook has entered its 14th printing, having sold nearly 14,000 copies, and is once again available for sale. This cookbook was requested by the Library of Congress to be in their ethnic cooking collection. The 330-page cookbook includes sections on Christmas and Easter customs and recipes, traditional Rusyn and Slavic foods, other ethnic dishes, and many other tried-and-true recipes of St. John’s parishioners. There is a variety of paska bread and kolachi (filled roll) recipes, as well as meatless dishes and Lenten recipes, suitable for the Great Fast, as well as the Pre-Christmas Fast. The cost of the cookbook is $14.00 plus $3.00 postage and handling ($17.00). To order please send a check or money order to: Ethnic Craft Club, St. John Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main Street, Uniontown, PA 15401. For more information, call 724-4386027 or e-mail carpathiancookery@gmail.com.
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Area Church News... Area Church News...Area Church News...Area Church News...
Church Holds Christmas Craft/Bake Sale St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main Street, Uniontown, is holding its annual Christmas Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday, December 3 from 12:00 to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, December 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the upstairs school hall. The many craft items have been made by St. John’s Ethnic Craft Club and include wooden items such as indoor and outdoor wooden angels, Santa’s, trees, snowmen, window stars, wreaths, Steelers items and door decorations, as well as assorted holiday and craft and gift items. Also available are tree ornaments of different types including some with icons or pysanky designs, imported items which include embroideries, icons, and other folk art from Slovakia and Ukraine. Available once again is the parish cookbook, “Carpathian Cookery” now in its 14th printing selling nearly 14,000 copies. Its new look is in computerized format and has a plastic protective cover. Also available is a wide assortment of delicious baked goods which includes long rolls (nut, poppyseed, apricot, and cottage cheese), small kolachy (pastries filled with nut, poppyseed, and apricot), filled cookie cups, breads, molded candy, many varieties of cookies, and much more. There is no admission charge. Parking is in the back which is handicap accessible. For more information, call the church office at 724-438-6027 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
EMAIL YOUR CHURCH NEWS TO news@monvalleymessenger.com
well as assorted holiday and craft and gift items. Also available are tree ornaments of different types, including some with icons or pysanky designs, and imported items, which include embroideries, icons, and other folk art from Slovakia and Ukraine. Available once again is the parish cookbook, “Carpathian Cookery,” now in its 14th printing and selling nearly 14,000 copies. Its new look is in computerized format and has a plastic protective cover.
Also available is a wide assortment of delicious baked goods which includes long rolls (nut, poppyseed, apricot, and cottage cheese), small kolachy (pastries filled with nut, poppyseed, and apricot), filled cookie cups, breads, molded candy, many varieties of cookies, and much more. There is no admission charge. Parking is in the back which is handicap accessible. For more information, call the church office at 724-438-6027 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Shepherd’s Voice singers are Connie Watkins, Debby Petrosky, Debbie Harn, and Linda Yohe. & © 20 04 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. and/or Hanna-Barbera.
Charleroi's Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church, 9th St. & Meadow Ave., will have frozen (pre-cooked) pierogies available to purchase for Christmas. Deadline to order is Wednesday, December 7. Pickup dates are Saturday, December 17 from 9 to 11 a.m. and Sunday, December 18 from 10 to 12 Noon. Call Lillian, 724-258-5720 or Janet, 724-483-8855 for more information and to order.
Riverview Baptist Church Upcoming Events
Riverview Baptist Church hosts Shepherd’s Voice as they present “Rejoice! It’s Christmas” concert Friday, December 9 at 7 p.m. at 405 Main Street, New Eagle. Shepherd’s Voice will share a variety of both sacred and secular Christmas songs of past and present. The excitement in the community builds as we anticipate the release of their first Christmas CD “Rejoice! It’s Christmas.” The cost of the CD is $13 and is a great gift idea. To pre-order your CD now, call Debbie Harn at 724258-9041 or Connie Watkins at 724489-4380. CDs will also be available on December 9 at the concert. Admission is free, but we will take a love offering to support the ongoing ministry of Shepherd’s Voice. Refreshments will be provided following the concert. This is an event you won’t want to miss. For more concert details, please call Saundra Bobnar at 724-258-4978.
St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church Holds Christmas Craft/Bake Sale St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main Street, Uniontown, is holding its annual Christmas Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday, December 3 from 12:00 to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, December 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the upstairs school hall. The many craft items have been made by St. John’s Ethnic Craft Club and include wooden items such as indoor and outdoor wooden angels, Santas, trees, snowmen, window stars, wreaths, Steelers items and door decorations, as
TM
Pierogies for Christmas
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SPORTS... Mid Mon Valley All Sports Hall of Fame Hosts 49th Annual Induction Ceremony
Mon Valley Midget Football League A Season to Remember By Paul Chasko
At the Midget game, Frazier moves the ball against Ringgold behind some good blocking.
Pictured are the Mid Mon Valley participants at the 49th Annual Induction Ceremony and Banquet hosted in the Philadelphia Area on Saturday, October 22 at the Radisson Hotel in Feasterville, PA. Flanking the lone Mid Mon Valley inductee, Louis "Bimbo" Cecconi are Steve Russell, general chairman of the Mid Mon Valley All Sports Hall of Fame and Dale Hamer, president of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. Cecconi was inducted along with 13 other inductees. Other Mid Mon Valley chapter inductees to the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame include: Stan Musial, Bert Rechichar, Jim Russell, Arnold Galiffa, Rev. "Deacon" Dan Towler, John Potsklan, Sever Toretti, "Red" Carlson, Armand Niccolai, "Bap" Manzini, Ken Griffey, Sr., Fred Cox, Myron Pottios, and Bill Malinchak.
Cheerleaders support the Bears Mighty Mite Team.
Aries Athletic Club Offers Holiday Season Fitness Survival Extravaganza It seems that everywhere you turn this holiday season, there will be excess food and drink, celebrations, gifts, activities and end of year work and personal deadlines that must be met. The fast-paced and festive environment contributes to stressful weeks and mixed feelings of enjoyment and fear too much to do and not enough hours in the day to get everything done. The Holiday Fitness Survival Extravaganza at Aries Athletic Club, originally scheduled for Friday, December 16 has been rescheduled for Thursday, December 15 from 10 a.m. to noon. The event takes place right in the middle of peak holiday planning and shopping excursions. It is designed to help put all the competing pressures into perspective and minimize a person’s worries about circumstances beyond their control. Complimentary health screenings and healthy holiday food samples are on the agenda along with free gifts for all who attend. To get involved in this fun morning of relaxation sponsored by Aries Athletic Club and gain information about innovative holiday survival techniques, potential participants can call 724-239-4771. Registration is ongoing.
Bears Mighty Mites run against Ringgold.
The 2011 season of the Mon Valley Midget Football League started out on a bumpy road with some significant changes. Norwin dropped out of the league, and East Allegheny was admitted to fill the vacated slot. We saw the Donora Dragons morph into a team carrying the Ringgold name (with the blessing of the Ringgold School Board). We also saw the breakup of the Monongahela Wildcats with some players moving to the new Ringgold team and others players finding slots with other neighboring teams. The Monongahela Wildcats were carried in the season standings (0-8-0) even though there was no team. The coaches working with the Ringgold team players saw this change as inevitable as the player pools from Donora and Monongahela were becoming too small to support teams in all four age divisions. The Union Finley Bears remain the only team in the league not having a connection, at least by name, to a specific school district. The Bears have a mix of players from Union Township, Finleyville, and South Park Township. Another change that seems natural to many folks would be for the Bears organization to become a South Park Team within the Mon Valley Midget Football League, releasing players residing in the Ringgold School District to the New Ringgold Team. The only concern with this move might be too many players on the Ringgold Teams, resulting in limited playing time for many kids. Parents, coaches, and league administrators would need to give this move some serious thought – if it’s even being considered
For more photos from this event, please visit the photo gallery on our website at www.monvalleymessenger.com.
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BVA Mens Soccer Team Plays in WPIAL AA Boys Soccer Championship Game
Meet the 2011 Belle Vernon Area WPIAL Class AA runner-up champions with a season record of 21 wins and 2 losses. Seated are Travis Van Breman, Jimmy Yantko, Travis Nobili, D. J. Mraz, Josh Page, David Kost, Eric Resetar. Pictured kneeling are Geno Leone, Alex Robinson, Jesse Kallam, Ryan Thomas, David Wurmlinger, Alan Robinson, T. J. Radic, Anthony Zenobi, Aaron Gillie. Pictured standing are Coach John Kerekes, Nolan Miller, Adam Jackson, Garrett Gillie, Dakota Barella, Nick Soltis and Garrett McLaughlin. This was the first-ever appearance in a soccer title game for the Leopards, who took on Hampton High School.
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High School Girls’ Soccer Season Wrap-up By Paul Chasko
Peters Twp. did it again – back to back PIAA state championships. It’s never been done before by a WPIAL team. The only thing that could have made their season any better would have been a WPIAL Championship. The Indians just couldn’t get past Upper St. Clair in the WPIAL championship game back on November 5. They certainly made up for it in the PIAA Ringgold Lady Rams vs. West Mifflin games. Congratulations to in an early-season game. the Lady Indians, coaches and parents who I know put in as much effort as their girls. Both Peters and Pennridge played tough defense but Peters sophomore forward Veronica Latsko made the only point in the PIAA Championship game – and it was enough. But there were other local teams playing out the fall 2011 season. South Park had an exceptional season as well advancing to the WPIAL finals and advancing to the 2nd round of the PIAA games before being eliminated by Mars.
High School Boys Soccer Season Wrap-up By Paul Chasko
There were eight local teams that qualified for the WPIAL playoffs (see table below). Upper St. Clair took the gold, and Peters Twp. was runner-up in class AAA. South Park, Belle Vernon, and Ringgold had outRinggold vs. Elizabeth Forward in an early-season game. standing seasons in AA. It’s noteworthy that Ringgold had only one point scored against them in the regular season, and yet they failed to win the gold in their division. It just indicates how tight the play in AA was this past season. But there were other local teams playing out the fall 2011 season. Ten WPIAL teams made the state playoffs this season competing against 38 teams from other areas of PA – only Upper St. Clair survived to represent the WPIAL in the Boys Championship Game, and they lost to Conestoga 1-0.
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To Advertise, or for additional information, call 412-249-8177, or e-mail info@monvalleymessenger.com Contact us: P.O. Box 103 • Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone/Fax: (412) 249-8177 • E-mail: info@monvalleymessenger.com
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School News...School News Cal U’s Homecoming Celebration Welcomes Current Students, Community Members, and Alumni to Participate
The Cal U homecoming court, with Cory Strennen crowned as king and Ashley Gill, queen.
Cal U ROTC
Twirler Brittany Marcolini steps proudly as she heads the California University Majorettes down Second Street.
The California University marching band California University cheerleaders
Perfect weather invited large crowds to line the streets of California University and California Borough for the annual California University Homecoming Parade held Saturday, October 22, 2011. Many activities were held the week of October 16 ,including a Zumbathon, a concert by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, a Hall of Fame Banquet honoring alumni sports standouts, the President's Circle Brunch for alumni, the Homecoming Parade, and a Vulcan Huddle Tailgating and Vulcan Football made this weekend lots of fun for both students and alumni. For many organizations, alumni are invited to participate in the Homecoming Parade along with current members. The community is also invited to participate, including California High School, Brownsville High School, and other local community bands and organizations. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS The California University dance team
Students from Mon Valley Career and Technology Center Attend SkillsUSA Workshop Over the course of the three-day SkillsUSA Pennsylvania Western Region Fall Workshop Leadership Training Academy, students from Mon Valley Career and Technology Center had the opportunity to attend workshops hosted by advisers from vocational schools across the region. In one, students were required to learn everything they can about SkillsUSA, like the pledge, creed, purposes, history, etc. and they were tested to achieve the ultimate goal of having the whole school receive 100% of the students passing. This was acknowledged with recognition at a closing ceremony along with a
pin to keep and show their knowledge. Another workshop, hosted by MVCTC’s own Mr. Kevin Ghost and Lexann Romonowsky, was "Higher and Higher," which showed students in attendance the dos and don'ts of how to interview for college or a job. There were also championships, which consisted of an afternoon where schools competed against each other in various team-building games and even performed a cheer. Students were not only voted winners by how they placed in each game, but also by how much spirit and cooperation was shown. MVCTC also entered in the various
delegate competitions, where the head delegate from each school went around and voted on items brought to the conferStudents from the Mon Valley Career and Technology Center ence. These attended the SkillsUSA Pennsylvania Western Region items were Fall Workshop Leadership Training Academy. brought by each school to of the conference/region. He is the W. support the theme which, this year, was Region Vice President of SkillsUSA "Skilled and Motivated." MVCTC had a Pennsylvania and had the opportunity student who presided as the president to reign over the conference.
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Madonna Catholic Regional
SCHOOL NEWS Mismatched clothes, the sillier the better, during Red Ribbon Week.
Elaina Serrao, Morgan Motycki, and Rita Urko are shown with some of the numerous fall art projects that adorn the halls of MCRS. Students in grades 5 and 6 had an awesome field trip to Round Hill Farm. Christina Ferrari is pictured feeding one of the horses.
Red Ribbon Week was a hit at MCRS. Second graders Nathan Peters, Chloe Pordash, Gabby Serrao, and Aleah Siwula proudly display a giant red ribbon.
For All Saints Day, students chose a saint to learn about and dressed as that saint for Mass. Shown are Lindsey Koziel as St. Anne, Alyssa Guzik as St. Lucy, Sarah Grandinette as St. Joan of Arc, and Aislyn Lee as St. Bernadette.
The MCRS "When The Saints Go Marching In" float took 3rd place in the Monongahela Halloween Parade. Some of the "Saints" are shown ready to march!
Mrs. Hawk and some of her first graders donned hats Crazy Hat Day.
Orange, black, and Halloween shirts replaced uniforms and Emma Lorenzo, Anthony Amati, Katie Brady-Bishop, Brenna LaMendola, and Sarah Glaneman are enjoyed the day.
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Kindergarten students Ethin Fries and Makayla Harger are doing "Pumpin Math" with the help of 8th grader Maria Loftis.
Students in grades K & 1 enjoyed a great trip to the Monongahela Fire Station as part of October Fire Safety.
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Changing of the Guard Current Ringgold School Board Meets for the Last Time By Paul Chasko
The November 16 meeting of the Ringgold School District Board of Directors was the last for this board. On December 5, the newly elected School Board Directors will be sworn in and take their seats. A reorganization meeting will take place, during which officers of the new board will be elected and old business will be addressed. The next regular meeting of the new board will be on December 21. The members of the new board are: Mariann L. Bulko Christopher D. Carroll William Ellis Gene Kennedy Lawrence L. Mauro Charles H. Smith Robert Smith William C. Stein To be appointed Because Ellis was elected for both an “at large” seat and a “district seat,” the
ninth board member will be by appointment and will likely be the new board’s first order of business. Superintendent Gary Hamilton presented certificates of appreciation to Denise Kuhn and William Stein for their extended service on the Ringgold School Board—Kuhn for 20 years of service and Stein for 8 years of service. The board adopted a resolution to file documentation with the Department of Community and Economic Development related to the incurring of debt to help finance a project for the Mon Valley Career and Technology Center. The resolution also authorized the execution and delivery of other necessary documents and the taking of other necessary actions. The project will address badly needed repairs and renovations to the MVCTC. A discussion ensued when a motion appeared on the agenda to award contracts for additions and alterations to Ringgold Elementary School North
(Gastonville). The work would include 6 additional permanent classrooms and some renovations to the existing building. The contracts to 4 companies were valued at a total of $1,916,500. Board member Chuck Smith questioned whether it would be a good move to approve a significant expenditure as a final action of the sitting board. He favored postponement to allow the new board to make the decision on December 5. Representatives of the architects, HHSDR, pointed out that the delay would likely impact the scheduled completion next August, but nevertheless the board voted to table the contract awards passing the decision on to the new board. A discussion once again over the
alleged failure of Turner Construction to prevent out-of-spec work on the RES (Ringgold Elementary School South) renovation project grew heated. Flooring in some classrooms needs to be repaired/redone by Mucci Construction. Unfortunately, floor tile and cabinetry were installed over the flooring and will now have to be removed at extra expense. Smith felt Turner should have caught this as part of their role in overseeing the work. The discussion resulted in an executive session called by Stein to allow solicitor Berggren an opportunity to discuss litigation stemming from the problem. It was unclear whether or not Turner had reported the problem to the administration in a timely manner.
Go to our website at www.monvalleymessenger.com for more details on this meeting.
Bellmar Middle School’s Fall Production Provides Holiday Entertainment with a Twist
REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the January issue is DECEMBER 12
In today’s society, holidays seem to take on a rather unpleasant meaning. Lately, many people view Christmas, for example, as not a celebration of one’s faith, but as a time to rush hurriedly about spending money one does not have to buy gifts that perhaps are unwanted or unneeded. Then there’s Thanksgiving, which seems to get left behind with all of the Christmas rush! Aren’t Christmas trees displayed in stores by September lately? Well, these trends were forgotten at Bellmar Middle School! This year’s fall production, Expose´: Holiday Celebrities Tell All!, took a look at typical American holidays
with a new twist – from the holiday celebrity’s point of view! These characters were tired of being taken advantage of, and they had much to say on the topic! In fact, they were all on strike! In Bellmar’s production these celebrities all had a right to complain! Santa had lost her best reindeer, the Thanksgiving turkey was attending Overeaters Anonymous, Cupid couldn’t get a date of his own, America’s best symbol, the bald eagle, was tired of being called bald – he has feathers you know! – and the St. Patrick’s Day leprechaun was forever being abducted for his imaginary pot of gold!
These holiday celebrities, along with several others, had many reasons to be upset! Many people attended the show and got to hear their tales of woe! Bellmar Middle School’s drama production of Expose’: Holiday Celebrities Tell All!, directed by Carol Aten Frow and Doug Gorecki, was presented Tuesday, November 15 and Wednesday, November 16 at 7:00 P.M. Tickets, which were purchased at the door, were $5.00 for adults and $4.00 for students. Those who came to see the show got a brand new perspective on these upcoming holidays!
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Belle Vernon Area High School Happenings BELLE VERNON
SCHOOL NEWS BVA School District Celebrates Veterans’ Day Belle Vernon Area School District continues to celebrate Veterans’ Day as a prominent commemoration for students to honor. Well-planned assemblies have been the routine at Bellmar and Rostraver Middle Schools for the last decade. Most impressive were the large number of Veterans who attended these services. At Marion Elementary School, a unique Veterans’ Day assembly was held in the school’s gymnasium. State Representative Ted Harhai was a guest speaker at the event which was attended by approximately 30 veterans representing all branches of the military. Veterans from the Vietnam War, the Korean War Conflict, the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan were among the attendees. One of the main events was a Skype session with U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. Joseph Bitet of New York City, a public affairs soldier. He is a member of the Coraopolis-based 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and will soon leave for Kuwait. The students enjoyed speaking with Sgt. Bitet and seeing him on screen. Many Marion Elementary School students participated in the program at which they presented flags, read poems and sang songs. The school’s fourth and fifth grade students participated in an essay contest in which they were asked to write what Veterans Day means to them. Winners of the essay contest were Autumn Forte and Josh Hoffman. The students planted a Veterans Tree – a paper bark maple – in an outside courtyard. The tree was donated by Martin’s Flowers and Shrubs. Marion
Elementary School plans on adding something new to the courtyard each year to create a reflection area in honor of community veterans. The veterans and their families were treated to a luncheon which was provided by the Marion Elementary’s PTA. Many of the veterans commented that they were honored and pleased with the warm reception they received and expressed their appreciation for the respect afforded them. At Rostraver Elementary School, local veterans were honored. Fifth grade students, under the direction of Ms. Lisa Boysen, read poems during the morning announcements honoring our veterans. A play titled “What is a Veteran” was performed for the entire school by fifth grade students under the directed of Mrs. Carol Manack. In preparation for this special day, students at Rostraver Elementary created a “Wall of Thanks” for all veterans. Pictures and information about veterans who are close to the students’ families were displayed on the “wall.” Ms. Mary Kreis, who is a parent and veteran, arranged a luncheon for the veterans, students and faculty. Students enjoyed speaking with the veterans as they joined them during lunch which was provided by several local businesses. Subway, Starbucks, Sweet Spot, and Jake’s Pizza are acknowledged for their generosity in honoring our veterans. The students and faculty of Rostraver Elementary School are thankful for the veterans who joined them on Veterans’ Day and for their selfless contribution to our great nation.
Email your School News to news@monvalleymessenger.com
The students at Belle Vernon Area High School received a pep rally as a reward from a contest held by the local radio station Y108. The student body gathered to support both the boys’ football and soccer teams with a pep rally that featured American Idol’s Casey James on Friday, November 4, leading the boys into their respective playoff games. The boys’ soccer team earned their way into the WPIAL Championship Game against Hampton at Elizabeth Forward, and the football team earned the right to play Franklin Regional in the first round of the AAA playoffs. In other news, the Leopard Spot opened up at the high school, providing opportunities for students to purchase snacks, refreshments, and spirit wear. Primarily open immediately after school under the direction of FAST Council members, the Leopard Spot will help support the varied student clubs and activities that the high school offers to its students. Both students and teachers have benefitted from this student store. Academically, this year marked the first year that the PSAT was required of all sophomore students, in addition to juniors that opted to benefit from its administration. National studies have concluded that students that take the PSAT score 140 points higher on the SAT later in high school, a benefit that BVAHS hopes to provide to its students. The exam on mathematics, critical reading, and writing will provide students with individualized plans of study to help preparation for college, as well as help identify students that would benefit from enrolling in the various Advanced Placement courses that the school has to offer. In the realm of student relations, BVAHS conducted surveys to current students relating to athletics as part of the federal Title IX regulations. Any student that enrolled in a Physical Education course this year completed a survey to analyze students’ interests and perceptions relating to inter-school athletics and extracurricular activities. Administrators also conducted a bullying survey to analyze the effect and magnitude the epidemic of bullying has on the students at BVA. As part of an ongoing analysis of graduation requirements, BVAHS conducted a survey to analyze its effectiveness in preparing its students for post-secondary education, the military, or career opportunities.
BVA Elementary Gifted Students Know Geography (l-r) Team members Savannah Lauzon, Abby Heid, Morgan Einodshofer, and Stevie Anderson show off their first place award. Team member Jacob Wessel is hidden from view.
On November 8, Students from the Belle Vernon Area gifted program competed in a Geography Bowl hosted by the Mon Valley Gifted Consortium at Yough Middle School. Students from grades K-5 tested their knowledge of states, capitals, land features and basic trivia about our country. The primary team of Jacob Wessel, Stevie Anderson, Savannah Lauzon, Morgan Einodshofer, and Abby Heid captured a first place award in their division. The team of Sarah McCloskey, Chase Ozegovich, Ben Filak, and Sara Ann Buza placed third in the intermediate division. Belle Vernon Area brought nearly 30 students from grades K-5 to the event. It was a great learning experience for all who participated.
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Kids & Family... Speers Annual Children’s Pizza Party with Santa Slated for Dec. 10 The Speers Annual Children’s Pizza Party with Santa will be held on Saturday, December 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Speers Borough building. The Speers Civic Club, along with Santa Claus, invites you to drop off your “letter to Santa” in person! In addition to meeting Santa, the children can enjoy pizza and refreshments. Reservations are required by calling 724-483-3193. The deadline is Tuesday, December 6. The party is limited to Speers residents only.
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Children’s Activities Planned During Holiday Season at Monongahela Area Library The Monongahela Area Library will host a variety of children’s programs and activities during the month of December, some related to the holiday while others are far from celebrating a holiday theme. First up is a wax paper window ornament craft on Saturday, December 3 from 11 a.m. to noon, and a Victorian-style candy horn craft from 1 – 2 p.m. The programs are intended to tie-in with the community’s children’s holiday programs at the Presbyterian and Methodist churches in town that day. On Wednesday, December 14 a reindeer craft activity is planned for all school aged children from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is requested for the activity by calling the library to ensure enough material is on hand. Tuesday through Friday, on the week between the holidays the library will have children’s games available for play from 12 – 3 p.m. each day including Wii games. A featured activity during game week will be a Captain Underpants inspired guessing game. That same week on Tuesday evening, December 27 from 6:30 until 8 p.m. the library will host a Family Fun night with a snowman craft and snowman snack. Children ages 3 – 10 and their parents are invited to attend. The following night the American Girls club will gather at 5:30 p.m. for the holiday meeting. For more info on any of the programs, please call the library at 724-258-5409.
YMCA Daycare Center Supports Cancer Awareness The providers of the infant/toddler room came up with the idea to teach the little ones of a special reason why we wear pink in October. The group made handprints on a huge pink ribbon, wore pink shirts, and made magnetic breast cancer ribbons to take home. Everyone at the YMCA wore pink that day, and the picture of the children and providers The Tiny Tots at the Mon Valley YMCA, Carroll Township, helped now hangs in the hallcelebrate and support breast cancer research on October 26. way. Children participating in the event included Steven Zelinsky, Sharley Walters, Michael Boardnax, Jessinia Hughes, Brody Shanefelter, Cooper Murry, and Morgan Ellsworth. The providers of the program were Kathy Foster, Carol Foor, and Heather Seefried.
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Home & Garden Planning a Winter Vacation? Secure Your Home Before You Go Getting away from snow and cold sounds wonderful about this time of year. But nothing could spoil the sweetness of a winter vacation more than coming home to find your house or apartment has been damaged by frozen water pipes or robbed. So, before you go: Stop delivery of mail and newspapers. Arrange for a neighbor to pick up any advertisements left at your door. Make sure your homeowners or renters insurance is current. Check the expiration date on your policy; make sure it doesn’t expire during your vacation. If it does, be sure to renew it before you go away. Ask your agent or company if your policy increases automatically for inflation. If it doesn’t, you may need to increase your coverage. Talk to your agent or company about any remodeling or additions you’ve made to your home; they may have increased the value of your property. If you’ve recently purchased a home computer or other expensive items, you may need to increase the coverage for your personal property. Consumers should not have more homeowners or renters insurance than they need. But, of course, they should have enough insurance to be covered in case of a loss. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs every 10 seconds. Don’t think it can’t happen to you. Make your home look occupied 24 hours a day. A single lamp left on in the living room may be a giveaway that no one is home. Leave several lights on throughout the house.
Set automatic timers to turn on at different times. Also, connect a radio to an automatic timer. Of course, be sure locks on doors and windows are in good shape. Ask a neighbor or friend to shovel the walk or driveway if it snows. You might also ask a neighbor to put a trash can in front of your home on collection day. Severe cold weather can cause water pipes to freeze and rupture. Take precautions against this disaster by checking that all exposed pipes are properly insulated. Indoor pipes that are not exposed to exterior cold can freeze if your furnace stops working. If you plan to be away from home in the winter for more than a few days, have your furnace checked periodically while you are gone to make sure it is working properly. The alternative is to shut off the water supply and drain all pipes and the hot water heater. Your insurance may not cover water damage from ruptured pipes if you haven’t taken such protective measures. Check your homeowner’s policy to be sure. No matter how you keep warm this winter – sitting in front of the fireplace or relaxing on a tropical beach – protecting your home from risk will give you a warm feeling that comes from peace of mind. If you have an insurance question, please call the Colgan Agency at 724379-5300 or visit our website at www.colganinsurance.com. Colgan Agency is located at 537 McKean Avenue, Donora.
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Let's Talk Real Estate by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner Century 21 Realty
ulation density. The program boasts 100% financing, which translates to a 0% down payment requirement. Another huge advantage is that there is no Mortgage Insurance Premium to be paid either up front at closing or monthly over the life of the loan. This means that a buyer may qualify for a slightly higher purchase price. When compared to an FHA Insured mortgage you discover that the FHA requires a 3.5% down payment and has both up-front and monthly costs for the Mortgage Insurance Premiums. Here are the basics: The house has to be located in a rural area as designated by USDA. Remember that urban areas (cities and most boroughs) do not meet the criteria. To determine the designated areas visit the USDA Website or contact one of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty professionals. The household income must be moderate (not low income!) as determined by USDA. USDA will need to see the tax returns for the borrower and their spouse. Again, to see if you qualify visit the USDA Website or contact one of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty professionals.
100% Financing Still Available Originally the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan programs were designed to assist buyers in the acquisition of rural farm properties.Today it is totally different because property eligibility is now determined by it's location within what the USDA defines as “eligible” areas. These areas cover a lot of territory within Washington, Westmoreland and Fayette Counties to name a few within our service area. It may be used to purchase single family dwellings, multi-units and there are even rural business programs available! The program has some income limitations based on family size, income and area. That said, it is not considered a low income program. It is designed specifically for moderate income families to advance property ownership in areas of lower pop-
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If it appears that the household income exceeds the moderate income thresholds established by USDA, don't throw in the towel just yet. USDA allows for deductions for child care and medical expenses as well as for children, students, handicapped, disabled, and elderly members of the household that will be living in the USDA guaranteed property. This is not a farmer's loan! As a matter of fact the land value of the property can't exceed 30% of the appraised value. The house has to be in fairly good condition. The appraisal type used is a FHA appraisal so make sure that there aren't any safety related challenges (i.e. missing banisters, peeling paint, exposed electric) The seller, if negotiated, may pay all closing costs and pre-paids (i.e. escrows for taxes and insurance). We have had USDA loans in which the home-buyer's only outof-pocket cost as part of the purchase transaction was to pay for a $450 appraisal report and credit checks. If the house appraises for more than the purchase price the difference can be used to pay for closing costs and pre-paids (i.e. escrows) if not negotiated as paid by the seller. This is the only loan program currently available that allows for closing costs to be rolled on top of the purchase price. The house can not have an in-ground pool.
USDA has no restriction on whether you are a first time home-buyer or move up home-buyer. This loan program is only for primary residence (i.e. no second home or investment properties). The minimum credit score is 620. In the old days USDA would ignore derogatory credit with a 620 score but has recently become much less lenient on this topic. All property types including single family homes, town homes, modular, and even condominiums qualify for this loan program. Manufactured homes such as single and double-wide do not qualify! There is no maximum mortgage amount, but the house does have to be considered moderate in size. In conclusion, it's still possible to buy a home with a very minimal out of pocket expense! Just call one of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty offices to begin your first or even your next home purchase today!
Finleyville 724-348-7470 Belle Vernon 724-929-2180 McMurray 724-941-8680
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HOME & GARDEN
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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller
Buyer
Address
Price
MONONGAHELA Robert Collin MD Luella Ruth Southworth Reverse Mortgage Solutions Inc. Estate of Elizabeth Polaski Roger Wineland SIRVA Relocation Credit LLC
Helen Yuschak Carrie Miller Jason Jaki Nancy Harrison SIRVA Relocation Credit LLC Joshua and Nicole Mizerak
910 Lincoln St. 603 Mary St. 512 High St. 716 Sampson St. 518 Fourth St. 518 Fourth St.
NEW EAGLE Mary Lou Patterson Washington County Tax Claim Bureau
Shirley Mae Pager New Eagle Borough
160 First Ave. 449 Third Ave.
$13,000 $1,036 by sheriff's deed.
CARROLL TOWNSHIP Southern Ohio Coal Co. Donald Wargo Thomas Edwin Short Federal National Mortgage Assn. Robert Smith
M3 Appalachia Gathering LLC Gina Jericho and Chris Cross Federal National Mortgage Assn. Nellie Mammarella Brian Osborne and Ashley Zimmerman
144 Redds Mill Road 29 Surrey Drive 1205 Center Ave. 27 Spruce Alley 57 W. Monessen St.
$1,224,111 $199,000 $2,489 by sheriff's deed. $25,500 $93,000
BENTLEYVILLE Don Novak Darren Shambaugh
David and Kimberly Yeck Kelly and Mercy Shriner
103 Helen St. 211 Lincoln Ave.
CHARLEROI Robbie Alvey Ronald Bedner J. Regis Carroll John Hilty New Century Home Equity Loan Trust Series Mon Valley Initiative Gary Clement
Housing & Urban Development Helen Adele McKinley Robert and Tessa Cain William Nutt TH Land Holdings LLC Jason Karelli and Rachel Hega Lee Supply Co. Inc.
907-907 1/2 Second St. 203 Lincoln Avenue Ext. 215 Lookout Ave. Maple Ave. 503 Eighth St. 802 Second St. McKean Ave.
NORTH CHARLEROI Timothy Brunner Julie Ann Marsich
Jeremy Tuttle Timothy Marsich
532 Conrad Ave. 729 Conrad Ave.
$54,000 $50,000
DONORA Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Estate of Richard King John Sarosinski Herman Hoffman
James Foltz Jr. and Glenn Weathers Jr. Thomas Payne Jr. and Rachelle Payne Deanna Carpenter Allen and Alice McElfresh Terry and Leslie Shetterly
644 Fifth St. 349 Market St. 521 Second St. 1155 Fayette St. 22 Manor Road
$1,251 by sheriff's deed. $8,000 $8,000 $2,500 $163,000
FALLOWFIELD Estate of Rose Doctorick A & F Real Estate L.P. Federal National Mortgage Assn. Ronald Davis
Martin Doctorick and Joseph Burton 1997 Hardy Maley Family Trust Patricia Yusko Dennis and Denise Carson
15 Alice Ave. 61 SR 2040 9 Miner Ave. 305 Kennedy Road
Kerry Klotzman Federal National Mortgage Assn. Catherine Clark 638 Masonic Temple Assn. Buds Boys Construction Inc. George Goettel
Grand Blvd. 1238 McMahon Ave. 411 Reed Ave.
MONESSEN John Kerekes Renee Bonari Veronica Catanzaro Monessen Lodge Estate of Emory Fabian
475 Reed Ave. 21 Keystone Drive
$125,000 $79,000 $8,000 $117,000 $115,000 $115,000
$79,900 $5,000
$1,125 by sheriff's deed. $5,000 $10,000 $17,500 $12,500 $75,000 $250,000
$144,000 $200,000 $15,900 $115,000
$53,000 $1,903 by sheriff's deed. $17,500 $10,000 $25,000
Publish your news for FREE! PRESS RELEASES, EVENTS, HAPPENINGS, ORGANIZATION NEWS OR BUSINESS NEWS. Mail: Mon Valley Messenger, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone or Fax: • 412.249.8177 Email: news@monvalleymessenger.com
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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions
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Seller
Buyer
Address
Price
MONESSEN (Continued) Paul Foley Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. Aaron Kunder Timothy Russell Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Roy Alexander Woods Michael Ortlip Lisa Ehrensberger Eric Michalsky Brandon and Deeann Detman
High St. and Knox St. 214 Lenawee Ave. 23 Pennsylvania Blvd. 90 Scenery Blvd. 1052 State Road
$6,000 $3,000 $74,500 $108,000 $43,000
NORTH BELLE VERNON Ronald Bethem Estate of Raymond Dalfonso Jacqueline Haughey Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trustee Kerry Balaska Joan Zucconi
Max Schlessinger Patrick Biddle and Rachel Kurta Bryan Csanady Michael James Farrier William John Dalee Mary Shenouda
918 Broad Ave. 439 Graham St. 107 Beaumont St. 604 Blind Lane 518 Broad Ave. 602 Broad Ave.
$109,000 $92,900 $65,000 $12,000 $56,500 $23,000
ROSTRAVER Lillian Smereczniak Anthony Nicolette Kathleen Pankiewicz Scott Clawson DDM Development Inc. Estate of Sharon Roberts Carozza Kenneth Byers Donald King First Line Development Rolling Hill Farm Patricia Russell Youth With A Mission Pittsburgh Inc. Mercer County State Bank
Lisa Ritz Sally Borkowski Thomas Beck Jr. Justin and Deborah Spence SNL Real Estate LLC Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Erika Skraitz Roland and Stella Keddie NVR Inc. John Russell Jr. Edward and Kathleen Mendola Donald and Cathy Baynham
509 Indian Hill Road 840 Iron City Hall 417 Kennedy Ave. 125 Lee Drive Abbey Lane 1000 Collinsburg Road 217 Lenity School Road 196 Valley View Drive Mya Court 4615 N. SR 51 1581 Ridge Road 1440 Willowbrook Road
$121,000 $87,500 $92,500 $79,500 $179,000 $3,892 by sheriff's deed. $27,000 $215,000 $30,000 $48,500 $80,000 $97,000
Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>. Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.
Your free press strengthens our community. Not by being separate from it, but by being part of it. This free community paper is a vital force in our community. We live here, we work here, our kids attend school here, we shop here, and we love it here. Because we feel so connected, we want everyone to feel the same way. That’s why we offer the best our community has to offer each issue. We invite you to strengthen our community by shopping locally, being involved, and supporting each other. We do.
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FOOD & DINING... Eco-Friendly Cookware (NAPSI)—When they think of ceramic, people often think of pottery and tableware, but many leading cookware brands are rolling out eco-friendly products featuring a ceramicbased, nonstick coating that is toxin-free and provides an extraordinary cooking experience. You can now get cookware that’s eco friendly and features a ceramic-based, nonstick coating. These water-soluble coatings are cured at lower temperatures, leading to reduced emission of CO2 into the atmosphere. Ceramic nonsticks provide better heat transfer, requiring less energy to heat your pan. The nonstick properties make cleanup easy, with less soap and water. They are free of PFOA and PTFE—the chemicals often used in traditional nonstick coatings.These new ceramic nonstick cookware lines provide a healthier alternative in cooking. Bravo TV’s “Top Chef” contestant and restaurant owner Fabio Viviani loves Italy’s No. 1 selling Bialetti AeternumNano-ceramic Cookware line. “The unique white nonstick coating releases food so easily even with very little oil,” Viviani said. The Aeternum is at Bed, Bath & Beyond and www.bialettishop.com.
724 - 483 - 5660
New Science Behind Avocado Oil (NewsUSA) - Health nuts and fitness enthusiasts, take note. New research from Europe shows that avocado oil can be a significant source of the vitamin CoQ10. The research shows that Olivado cold-pressed, extra virgin avocado oils contain significant quantities of CoQ10, a much desired vitamin-like substance that has been shown to produce significant health benefits. Avocado oil packs a healthy CoQ10, also known as "ubiquinone," punch, full of vitamins, plays an essential role in the conversion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins into antioxidants, folate and more. energy. This much sought-after substance has been shown to produce serious health benefits. CoQ10 in supplement form is one of the fastest-growing products on the market. The studies, conducted at Nutrition Institute by Dr. I. Pravst, show that Olivado avocado oils contain 123mg/L, while meat, long considered the food group containing the highest concentration of this vital element, contains only 20-40mg/kg. Extra virgin avocado oil is one of the good oils: high in monounsaturated fats, lower in saturated fats than olive oil, as well as having a great taste. But not all avocado oils produced this significant level of CoQ10. The studies were conducted on a number of avocado oils from Mexico, South Africa and New Zealand with the amount of CoQ10 varying from 20mg/kg to 123mg/kg. The highest ranking was achieved by one particular brand, Olivado, a New Zealand-based producer of highquality edible oils. According to Neil Albert, vice president and general manager of Olivado's USA distribution center, it is Olivado's proprietary process for extracting oil from the avocado which is responsible. "Most avocado oils are mass-produced and chemically refined," says Mr. Albert. "Evidently, the process of refining, coupled with ineffective production processes, eliminates most of the CoQ10 in avocado oil." These results were released after a research study conducted on over 100 different vegetable oils. The study was undertaken by The Nutrition Institute of Slovenia in conjunction with Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain. For more information, visit www.olivado.com.
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YOUR HEALTH MVH Offers Free Health Care Talks to the Public
Take Control of Holiday Fever and Use Yoga to Bust Stress
Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Innovations in Medicine lecture series continues in December with three MVH physicians presenting free, educational health care talks at the hospital’s Education Conference Center (ECC) in Carroll Twp. The doctors then repeat their programs at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX in Rostraver, just off of Route 51. Dates, physicians and their upcoming talks include: Monday, Dec. 5 – Jay A. Lutins, M.D., prostate disorders and treatments, HealthPLEX. Thursday, Dec. 8 – Vasu N. Malepati, M.D., smoking cessation, MVH ECC. Wednesday, Dec. 14 – Charles Lebovitz, M.D., advances in modern surgery, HealthPLEX. Wednesday, Jan. 4 – Vasu N. Malepti, M.D., smoking cessation, HealthPLEX. All programs begin at 6 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Make reservations by calling MVH’s reservation hotline at 724-258-1333.
If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of this holiday season, why not try yoga? What even is yoga? Yoga is a mind/body exercise. It is very soothing and trains the mind to focus while calming the body. Yoga uses a series of body poses that are held for a certain period of time along with breathing exercises, relaxation or meditation intervals. The health and well-being benefits of yoga are numerous including strength and balance improvement, lowering of blood pressure, increased flexibility, efficient heart operation, body relaxation and faster healing from ailments. The advantages extend to mental outlook as well since the activity helps improve concentration and task focus. Over the long term, yoga efforts can help control heart disease symptoms, osteoarthritis, mood swings, stress levels, asthma attacks and musculoskeletal problems. Take time out to invest in yourself and get started on the right track towards a 2012 New Year’s resolution for a healthy lifestyle. Beginner and/or advanced Yoga classes are available at Aries Athletic Club on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 5:15 p.m. For more information regarding class rates or the registration process, call 724-239-4771.
Center for Fitness and Health Swings into the Holidays with Golf Fitness Training NEW
product inin cracked sk care!
The Swing-Away Golf-Fitness Training System incorporates core strengthening and flexibility to improve the power and consistency of your swing and help take your game to the next level. It is ideal for helping golfers of all levels and ages improve their game. Whether you are a beginner with a desire to learn about the basic elements of the golf swing, or an elite golfer wanting to maximize your potential, you will benefit by participating in this program. It is a 6-week session beginning January 16. Non-member fee for the course is $199. Call 724- 379-5100 to inquire.
Center for Fitness and Health Slates Triatholon for February Join us Sunday, February 19 for our 4th Annual Indoor Triathlon. Challenge yourself with a 500 yard swim in our pool, hit the spinning bikes for 8 miles, and finish with a 2-mile run on our indoor track. Overall and age group winners will be recognized. Pre-registration required. Contact Melissa Ondesko at mondesko@mvhealthplex.com for a registration form.
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HEALTH NEWS
Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Innovations Lecture Series Continues Urologist Jay A. Lutins, M.D., will be the next speaker at Monongahela Valley Hospital’s free community Innovations in Medicine lecture series, which features its physicians presenting educational health care talks. Dr. Lutins discussed innovations in treating non-cancerous prostate diseases on Tuesday, Nov. 15, at the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center. He will repeat his Innovations presentation on Monday, Dec. 5, at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX on Route 51 in Rostraver. Jay A. Lutins, M.D. will be the guest Both Innovations programs are free and lecturer at the December 5th begin at 6 p.m.; light refreshments will be Innovations lecture. served. Reservations are required by calling 724-258-1333 or by visiting the MVH website at monvalleyhospital.com. In past Innovations talks, Dr. Lutins has spoken to large audiences on male urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction as well as female urinary incontinence. MVH doctors have presented Innovations lectures each month to area residents since January of 2008. Attendees regularly submit ideas for future program topics.
MVH HealthPLEX Teen is Second Trainer to Earn Pro Card Setting a goal and remaining committed to it is how certified personal trainers help their clients improve their health and well being. This determination has also served Ryan Nelson well, as he recently became the Bodybuilders (OCB) Natural STEEL Championships Pro Qualifier in Carnegie and swept all three of the categories at the prestigious body-building competition: teen, novice and men’s open class. Along with the laurels earned for winning, Nelson From left, Ryan Nelson of Rostraver received his pro card, which means he with his trainer and friend A.J. Hribal of is now a natural professional bodyConnellsville celebrate Nelson’s win at the builder.“I started working out in sixth Bodybuilders (OCB) Natural STEEL grade after watching Rocky, and I have Championships Pro Qualifier. been working at it ever since,” said Nelson, who followed a 17-week, strict, lean diet while training seven days a week for the challenge. “I’ve been working so hard for so long, I just kind of knew that I had a good shot at winning,” said the 19-year-old from Rostraver, who is a sophomore at California University of Pennsylvania majoring in pre-med. Nelson said he prepared for the competition with the help of Connellsville's A.J. Hribal, his friend and fellow personal trainer at the Center for Fitness and Health at the HealthPLEX. Hribal, 24, coincidentally earned his pro card in a separate OCB competition in May, becoming the center’s first personal trainer to earn the title. Nelson joined the Center for Fitness and Health at the HealthPLEX as a high school freshman and then served as a lifeguard there for four years.
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MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL DECEMBER EVENTS Monongahela Valley Hospital is sponsoring a variety of informative programs during December. Many of the events will be held in the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center (ECC) unless otherwise noted. Stroke Support Group - Thursday, December 1 at 1 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-258-1455. Gift Shop Holiday Open House - Friday, December 2 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. MVH Gift Shop. Take advantage of 30 percent off a great selection of gifts and clothing while enjoying refreshments and prizes courtesy of The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. Baby Care Class - Monday, December 5 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Parents-to-be will learn baby care basics at this instructional session. For more information, call 724258-BABY (2229). Innovations in Prostate Disorders and Treatment - Monday, December 5 at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Join Dr. Jay Lutins, MVH urologist, while he discusses the latest treatments for noncancerous diseases of the prostate. To register, call 724-258-1333. Understanding Your Meal Plan - Tuesday, December 6 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Learn more about food choices, dining out and how your eating habits affect your blood glucose control. Contact 724-258-1483 for more information and to register. Breast Cancer Support Group Wednesday, December 7 at 6 p.m., ECC. This support group is free and open to all breast cancer patients and their families. For more information, call 724-258-1455. Understanding Your Blood Sugar Readings - Wednesday, December 7 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Learn how to make sense of all those blood sugar readings you document. Understand how your diet, medications, illness, and stress affect your blood sugars. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self Management Training is required. Contact the Center for Diabetes at 724-258-1483 to register. Understanding Your Diabetes Medications - Thursday, December 8 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Gain a better understanding of
how your diabetes medications work and learn the effects diabetes medications have on your blood sugar readings. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self Management Training is required prior to attending this class. Contact 724-258-1483 for more information and to register. Innovations in Smoking Cessation Thursday, December 8 at 6 p.m., ECC. Vasu Malepati, M.D., an ear, nose and throat specialist on staff at MVH, will discuss smoking cessation. To register, call the MVH Reservation Hotline at 724-2581333. Managing Your Diabetes - Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, December 13, 14 and 15 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., ECC. A three-day, education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. To register, call 724-258-1483. RSDS Support Group - Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m., ECC. The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Support Group is free and open to all persons with RSDS or related illnesses. For more information, call 724-929-9492. Innovations in Advances in Modern Surgery - Wednesday, December 14 at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Charles Lebovitz, M.D., general surgeon on staff at MVH, will be discussing the technology and medical advancements that are integral parts of today’s operating room. To register, call 724-258-1333. Breastfeeding Class - Monday, December 19 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229). Cancer Support Group - Monday, December 19 at 7 p.m., ECC. For additional information, call 724-258-1704. Arthritis Support Group - Tuesday, December 20 at 5 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-258-1321. Advanced Carbohydrate Counting Wednesday, December 21 from 6 – 8 p.m., ECC. Diabetes self-management class that focuses on carb counting with everything you need to know. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1148. MVH and Red Cross Blood Drive Wednesday, December 28 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., ECC. To register, call 724494-4090 or register online at redcrosslife.org.
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SENIOR GUIDE Solutions for Seniors Struggling in Today's Economy (NewsUSA) - Turmoil in the economy. Skyrocketing jobless numbers. Budget cuts putting families at risk. And senior services being cut. And cut. And cut. Whether it is nutrition, housing, or medical needs, seniors and their caregivers are now looking for new ways to keep themselves clothed, fed and housed. In fact, President Obama's fullyear Continuing Resolution for 2011 included a 45 percent national cutback of Senior Community Service Employment Program funding from the fiscal year 2010 budget. With federal funding at the top of the chopping block, many of our elderly don't have access to even one hot meal a day. Meals on Wheels, a non-profit agency, had to establish a waiting list at many of its sites across the U.S. this year. While the world of senior nutrition
programs faces trying fiscal times, there are services out there to help. Mom's Meals (www.MomsMeals.com), created by a family to care for their aging grandmothers, delivers fresh-prepared, nutritionally balanced meals right to the doors of those who need them most. At only $5.99 per meal, far less than the cost of a restaurant meal, Mom's Meals are designed by a dietician and chef and contain the proper nourishment for seniors. While transportation options are also being cut, a little digging will show that certain agencies are working for the benefit of seniors. At the 2005 White House Conference on Aging, transportation was identified as the third most important priority of seniors, right under reauthorization of the Older Americans Act (No. 1) and matters pertaining to long-term care, according to the National Center on Senior
Transportation. The NCST has made it their mission to increase transportation options for older adults and enhance their ability to live more independently within their communities throughout the U.S. More about the NCST can be found at www.seniortransportation.net. With these federal cuts also comes added financial burden on seniors and their families. To help, AARP offers their Money Management Program, a daily service to help lowincome older or disabled people who have difficulty budgeting, paying routine bills and keeping track of financial matters. More information about it can be found at www.aarpmmp.org.
Helping seniors navigate their options is crucial in this economy. Here, Barb Anderson, the "mom" from Mom's Meals, serves her mother.
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SENIORS
Rich in Tradition, Home Health Care is Now a High-Touch, High-Tech Industry November was Homecare and Hospice Month, a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of more than 1,800 home health, homecare and hospice agencies providing care to 405,000 Pennsylvania seniors and disabled residents. Celtic Healthcare, headquartered in Mars, PA currently serves approximately 1,500 residents per day in their homes in the Pittsburgh and Western PA region, as well as Central and Northeastern PA and parts of Maryland. While home health care may have started more than 100 years ago with a visiting nurse coming to a family's home to change dressings, vaccinate children or to check on a sick mother, today's industry has evolved into a high-tech, high-touch health care profession. Today, home health and hospices nurses use laptops to assess patients' conditions, monitor vital signs remotely using telehealth devices and provide therapy at home for patients recovering from hip fractures or joint replacements. "Today, we're doing amazing things at home, and we've been extremely successful in helping people avoid unnecessary admission or readmission to the hospital," commented Arnie Burchianti, CEO at Celtic Healthcare. "Our homecare and hospice nurses and therapists are also teachers. They help patients manage chronic conditions like CHF, COPD, and Diabetes so they can live as independently as possible." Recent trends show that health care is coming home. "Health care reform is all about providing more efficient and effective health care," explained Burchianti. "That is what home health is. It is one-on-one care provided in an individual's home. Whether we're providing medical, personal or end-of-life care, receiving care in one's home is less expensive and is preferred by most patients." Celtic Healthcare is a member of the Pennsylvania Homecare Association, a statewide organization of more than 425 homecare and hospice agencies providing quality care to the residents of Pennsylvania in their homes. The group advocates for homecare patients and their families on a variety of issues. Currently, PHA is urging passage of the Family Caregiver Support Act (H.B. 210/S.B. 639), which would help families who are caring for loved ones. On the federal level, advocates are urging Congress to oppose a co-pay for home health services. "This co-pay would be a significant financial burden on seniors whose budgets are already tight," said Burchianti. "And history has proven this to be an ineffective method of overall cost-reduction." "Celtic Healthcare is proud to join other homecare and hospice professionals who provide in-home services to advocate on behalf of our consumers, who many times are unable to speak for themselves," added Burchianti. To learn more about Celtic Healthcare, visit http://celtichealthcare.com.
Tap into the power of the Messenger. Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177
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Home for the Holidays Free Web Conference Offered The Home for the Holidays free web conference is designed to help family caregivers recognize the signs that a senior might need more help at home. Warning signs can help make decisions that will keep your senior safe. To learn more about these signs, register for the free Home for the Holidays web conference moderated by a Home Instead Senior Care representative, hosted by American Society on Aging. The hour-long web conference will be offered on Monday, December 5 at 8:00 p.m. Visit www.caregiverstress.com/familyeducation to participate in the family caregiver web conference.
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Local People News Daniel Zyglowicz Awarded Frederick Douglass Institute Service Award Daniel Zyglowicz, the son of Dolores Michaels Zyglowicz and the late Tadeusz Zyglowicz of Monessen, was recently awarded the Frederick Douglass Institute Service Award from California University of Pennsylvania. The award is given to an individual for their contributions and work on behalf of the Frederick Douglass Institute. Daniel is chairperson of the Advocacy Subcommittee for the Institute and was responsible for bringing Kenneth Morris, Jr., the great- greatgreat-grandson of Frederick Douglass, to speak at the campus on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of Frederick Douglass’s visit to what was then the Southwestern State Normal School. Daniel works in the Archives and Special Collections Room of the Louis L. Manderino Library, as well as their Government Document Depository. He is also a member of the Core Values Committee of the University. In addition, he is the cataloger at Monessen Public Library and chairperson of their Diamond Jubilee Committee. He also serves on their fundraising and marketing & outreach committees. Daniel is president of the Greater Monessen Historical Society and writes the Society newsletter, the Valley Historian.
Fehribach-Stroh Wedding Rebecca Fehribach, originally of Hilliard, OH, and Andrew Stroh, originally of Donora, were married on October 29, 2011. The wedding ceremony took place at St. Margaret of Cortona Church in Columbus, OH at 1:30 p.m. and was officiated by Monsignor Anthony Borrelli. The bridal party consisted of best man Brodie Smith and groomsmen Jordan White, originally from Monessen, and Cody Christian. All three are friends of the groom. Katie Fehribach, sister of the bride, served as maid of honor; bridesmaids were Darcie Thomas and and Angela Starner, friends of the bride. A reception at the Marian Center at Immaculate Conception Church was held following the ceremony. Both graduates of the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, IN, Becky and Andrew currently live in Potomac, MD and work in the greater Washington, DC area. PHOTO COURTESY OF MARIE WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY.
Jeffrey S. Mendola Receives GAMA International’s International Management Award Jeffrey S. Mendola, CMFC LuTCF, has received GAMA International’s International Management Award at the silver level. Mendola, who is Managing Principal with Waddell & Reed, Inc., was one of some 1,250 recipients of the award in 2011. Mendola has been a professional in the financial services industry for 22 years. He joined Waddell & Reed in 1998.The GAMA International Awards Program recognizes excellence in traditional and contemporary field management throughout the financial services industry.
Former BVA Resident and Financial Consultant Shares Expertise and Community Service with Valley Residents A former resident of the Mon Valley has joined a financial consulting practice to service the Mon Valley and Fayette County areas. Ryan Galiotto, a 2002 graduate of Belle Vernon Area High School, is beginning his practice in Hopwood, PA, just outside of Uniontown, with Fields Financial Services. Specializing in retirement investment services for individuals and businesses, Ryan says his specialty is not only helping individuals grow a retirement savings, but also transition from being employed to being retired. “I work with many individuals looking to roll 401k assets to IRAs and begin drawing income throughout retirement.” he says. Ryan also focuses on helping individuals with other investment needs such as college education savings and individual stock, bond and mutual fund trading. Growing up in Belle Vernon, Ryan notes he was introduced to investments by his good friend Jack Putnak of Charleroi. “Jack gave me two things that changed my life: a Wall Street Journal and copy of Warren Buffet's biography. I knew by the time I graduated high school that this was the business I wanted to be in,” he said. After exploring other careers after college, Ryan met Randy Fields of Fields Financial Services who brought him into the financial services business and mentored him. “I worked under Randy for a few years learning methods of providing financial consultations. Earlier this year, I felt I was ready to start on my own.” Now a resident of Uniontown, Ryan is devoted to giving back to the community that he operates his business in. He presently is a member of the Fayette Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Fayette, Chestnut Ridge Rotary Club and the Hopwood Villagers. Presently, Ryan is accepting new clients and provides confidential, no cost, no obligation interviews. You may reach his office at (724) 4373863 or at 1228 National Pike, Hopwood, PA 15445 to schedule an appointment.
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PEOPLE
Penn State Fayette Chancellor Honored with Award of Achievement Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus’ Chancellor, Francis Kofi Achampong, Ph.D., was named to TALK Magazine’s 2011 salute to Minority Achievers. Before becoming chancellor at Penn State Fayette, he served as chief academic officer at Penn State’s Mont Alto campus for eight years. Additionally, he served in various capacities, including professor, department head, and interim dean at Norfolk State University in Norfolk, VA. As a professor he published a book on sexual harassment law and many articles, a number of which have been cited by other scholars and two federal courts. He began his career in higher education as an assistant proShown are (l-r) Dr. Curtiss Porter, Chancellor of Penn State Greater fessor at Howard University’s School of Allegheny and Dr. Achampong. Business. Dr. Achampong is actively involved in Fayette County and serves as a member of the board of Fay-Penn Economic Development Council and the Westmoreland-Fayette Workshop Investment Board. He has positioned Penn State Fayette as a leader in generating discussion on important social issues and has welcomed and hosted forums on Marcellus Shale, American Cancer Society and Pittsburgh Ballet performances, among others. He has recently hosted and testified before the House Democratic Planning Committee on the effects of funding cuts on education. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY UNIVERSITY
New Eagle Woman and Niece Win in State Wide Pageantry Competition Tiffany Laurel Forlai of New Eagle was crowned Over-All Grand Supreme in the America's Theme Pageant: Braves and Heroes, which was held in Harrisburg on September 18. Categories included beauty, outfit of choice, patriotic wear, and photogenic composite. Her niece, Candace Marie Schnore, received a large crown, banner, and toys in the 8-9 year-old beauty category. Tiffany is a medical sales representative for Hearing Unlimited and a graduate of California University of Pennsylvania. Candace is a third grader at Ringgold Elementary School North. She is the daughter of Stephanie Schnore of Washington and Chad Forlai of New Eagle.
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Mon Valley Messenger!
Your source for hometown, community news.
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Recent Local Death Notices OBITUARY Cora Sue Ducoeur
Amoroso – Loretta R., 94, of Monongahela died Tuesday October 25. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Burkholder – Harriett A., of Monongahela “Carroll Twp” died Sunday November 13. Arrangements under direction of William A. Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle. Cole – Jack., 65, of Monongahela died Monday October 17. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Douglas – Robert., 59, of Monongahela died Friday October 7. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.
Cora Sue Ducoeur, 70, lost her battle with cancer on Monday, Nov. 7, 2011. She was born in Waynesburg, on Aug. 19, 1941, the daughter of Charles and Mary Adams. Cora received her RN degree from Presbyterian School of Nursing in 1961. She was very active in her community. She served on Charleroi Borough Council for six years. She served as a member and held various offices in the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, Charleroi Shadetree Commission and the Charleroi Garden Club. She had participated in the annual American Diabetes Step Out for the Cure for the past 15 years and the local Lois Orange Ducoeur Breast Cancer Walk for the past eight years. She was the winner of the 2000 Jo DeBolt Volunteer of the Year Award. She was the recipient of the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Shining Star Award in 2004 and the Distinguished Citizen award in 2010. Cora and her husband, Tom, owned and operated Orange's Gift Department Store. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Thomas Orange Ducoeur; two daughters, Lois (Don) Ruschak, of Charleroi and Rebecca Bowers, of Charleroi; grandchildren, Coral, Pearl, Noah and Jonah Ruschak, and Jacquelyn and Dalton Bowers; siblings, Karen Adams, of Waynesburg, Kathryn Reeves, of Arizona, Anita (Kenneth) Simms, of Clarksville and Cindy Kerr, of Waynesburg, John Staggers, of Waynesburg, and Kay Adamson, of Waynesburg; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Linda Adams. Friends and family were received on Wednesday, Nov. 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home in Charleroi, and funeral services were held in the funeral home on Friday at 11 a.m. with Interment following in Monongahela Cemetery.
Gilmer – James A., 42, of Monongahela died Thursday September 22. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Hodgson – Charles I., 69, of Monongahela died Monday October 10. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Jordan – Mark M., 53, of Monongahela died Thursday October 27. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Johnson – Pearl I., 83, of Donora died Saturday October 22. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.
Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Lusk – David M., 82, of Monongahela “Victory Hill” died Monday October 31. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Martik – Marian E., 84, of Monongahela died Sunday November 6. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. Pontier – Joseph S., 94, of Monongahela died Thursday October 20. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Toth – George., 79, of Monongahela (Formerly of Forward Township) died Friday September 23. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Valiani – Beatrice., 96., of Orange, VA (formerly of New Eagle) died Saturday October 15. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Valerio – Christopher., 42, of Charleroi (Formerly of North. Huntington) died Monday September 26. Arrangements under direction of Anthony Massafra Funeral Home in Donora. Yuhasz – Barbara A., 58, of Monongahela died Monday September 26. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.
Lohr – Frances., 92, of Monongahela died Monday October 24. Arrangements under direction of
Publish your news for FREE! PRESS RELEASES, EVENTS, HAPPENINGS, ORGANIZATION NEWS OR BUSINESS NEWS. Mail: Mon Valley Messenger, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone or Fax: 412.249.8177 Email: news@monvalleymessenger.com
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ENTERTAINMENT.... PUMP UP the
VOLUME!
by Mandy Withers-Kozlow ski
December ECK’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 724-310-3570 1574 Fourth Street, Monongahela 2 - White Rose Karaoke 3 - DJ Bob 8 - White Rose Karaoke 9 - DJ Bob 10 - DJ Bob 16 - White Rose Karaoke 17 - DJ Bob 23 - White Rose Karaoke 30 - DJ Bob 31 - New Years Eve Party - No Cover - Free Buffet - DJ Bob HEY ANDY SPORTS BAR AND LOUNGE 724-258-4755 1221 W. Main Street, Monongahela 1 - 50’s Night Sock Hop 2 - Gil Snyder Combo 3 - Lindsay Neal and Kickback 9 - The Jades 10 - The Nancy McKeen Bluz Machine 16 - Refuge 17 - A-Z DJ/Karaoke 23 - Matt Tichon 24 - Closed 30 - DJ Barto 31 - Steeltown Thursdays - DJ Barto
Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot!
RINKY DINKS ROADHOUSE 724-228-1059 339 Amity Ridge Road, Amity 2 - The WeedRags 10 - Ruff Creek 17 - Davisson Brothers Band 31 - New Years Eve Party w/Ruff Creek Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ The WeedRags RIVER HOUSE CAFE 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi Entertainment - 9:30 p.m. -1:30 a.m. 3 - Scotty Spahr 10 - FastBack 17 - Black Dog Hollow 23 - WeedRags ROCKIN' WILLIE’S ROADHOUSE 724-745-8844 2476 Washington Road (Rt. 19 South), Canonsburg Tuesdays - Jam Night with the Jam Band. All singers and musicians welcome
ATTENTION: LOCAL BARS, RESTAURANTS, & NIGHTCLUBS If you would like to be included in the monthly “PUMP UP THE VOLUME” section to promote and list your bands, please send us your list of performances each month. There is no fee for this listing. Fax: 412-249-8177 or e-mail: news@monvalleymessenger.com
The Umbrella Man Showcases Talents of Local Filmmaker Laura Magone’s The Umbrella Man entertained those who attended the screening of her documentary, which was shown on October 29.
Seventy-five people attended the October 29 showing of Laura Magone’s refilmed and re-edited documentary, Angelo Pallini: The Umbrella Man, at Monessen High School. The event was sponsored by the Greater Monessen Historical Society. Following the film, Magone introduced Dr. Patrizia Previtali, of Italy, who flew in for the event. Dr. Previtali read some of the Pallini poems and translated them into English. This was followed by a question and answer period, along with anecdotes by Pallini Family members. The audience enjoyed a chili and mashed potato bar with Halloween treats. Copies of the DVD are being sold in the Museum Shoppe at the Monessen Heritage Museum.
Local Music Talent Provides the Gift of Music with CD Release The gift of music can be enjoyed by so many. Local singer, songwriter, composer, producer and GRC member Greg Capozzi has just released his new CD, titled Christmas Album. Although many may know Greg as the owner/operator of G. Capozzi Electric, he is also an accomplished recording artist with over 300 songs written and recorded in the genres of rock, pop, classic rock and Christian rock. The Christmas Album CD is available for purchase locally at Sweet Nostalgia on Broad or by calling 724-930-9330. For more information and to see other titles released by Greg Capozzi visit www.gregcapozzimusic.com.
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FREE GAS! Receive $300 Gasoline Savings! Gasoline Stimulus Program provides $300 gas savings to participants of driving survey. Local Stations - Major Brands! Call now 877-898-9027 ________________________________________________________ WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI 1970-1980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ 1000, H2-750, H1-500, S1-250, S2-250, S2-350, S3-400 CASH. 1800-772-1142, 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners.com ________________________________________________________ TOP CASH FOR CARS, Any Car/Truck, Running or Not. Call for INSTANT offer: 1800-454-6951 ________________________________________________________
--------- AUTO DONATIONS ------------------ AUTOMOTIVE ---------Buy Here! Pay Here! QUALITY USED CARS LOW Down Payments • NO Credit Check. • 724-379-5055 Mazda 6 Bumper - 2003-08 custom after market with metal grill $75. Phone 724-268-0315 . ________________________________________________________ Hyundai Accent - $4500.00. For more information, call 412-512-8437 or 412417-5948 and ask for Charlotte. in ________________________________________________________ 2004 Jeep Liberty - Sport 4x4 drive,new tires,new inspection,and garage kept. 85,500 miles, asking for $7500 OBO. For more information, call 724-344-7238. ________________________________________________________ 1988 XJ6 Jaguar – light crème color, tan leather, 54K, no rust, southern car. $5,000.00 OBO. Call 724-797-1723. ________________________________________________________ 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Minivan - 64,000 miles.A scooter lift is attached to the rear hatch and can be used to lift a wheelchair or scooter into van. Not used to transport people in and out of vehicle. Garage kept, lift only 2 years old.Asking for________________________________________________________ $8,000 but will negotiate. For more information, call 412-854-5844. 1999 Commodore mobile home. Exc. condition. Only 1 owner - bought brand new in 2001. Call 412-600-9061 ________________________________________________________ 2008 Jeep Liberty 4x4 - 30K miles, flat tow ready, modern blue pearlcoat exterior, 3.6L V6 engine w/6 speed manual transmission, lots of extras, includes tow bar________________________________________________________ & auxiliary brake system. $20,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667. 2003 Hyundai Accent - lt blue/station wagon,slim type,little over 15,000 miles, new brakes and rack.Car runs excellent.$8,500 final price.Call Charlotte at 412417-5948. ________________________________________________________ Ford Farm Tractor - 1952, 8N, 12 volts, with brush hog. $2,500. 724-3485992. ________________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622. ________________________________________________________ 1999 Nissan truck-Frontier. 163,000 miles, Good condition. $5000 or B/O. 724-348-7637. ________________________________________________________ JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ________________________________________________________ CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! PayMAX pays the MAX! One call gets you a TOP DOLLAR offer! Any year/make/model. 1-888-PAYMAX-5 (1-888-729-6295) ________________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS: Cars/Trucks Wanted! Running or Not! We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Instant Offer - Call: 1-800-569-0003 ________________________________________________________
DONATE YOUR CAR to USO and HELP SUPPORT AMERICA'S TROOPS. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 1-888-444-8308. ________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, Truck or Boat to HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND, Free 3 Day Vacation. Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care of. 1-888-4751825 ________________________________________________________ A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation! Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up. 800-7719551 www.cardonationsforbreastcancer.org ________________________________________________________ CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330 ________________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR - Free Next Day Pick-Up.Help Disabled Kids.Best Tax Deduction. Free Vacation Gift. Call Special Kids Fund 7 days/week 1-866-448-3865. ________________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR – HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing. Call 7 days/week. Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408 ________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CANCER FUND of AMERICA to help SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS.Tax Deductible.Next Day Towing.Receive Vacation Voucher.Call 7 Days 1-800-835-9372 ________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND OF AMERICA, and help end CHILDHOOD CANCER. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. 7 Days 1-800-469-8593 ________________________________________________________ Donate Your Car! Civilian Veterans & Soldiers Help Support Our U.S. Military Troops 100% Volunteer Free same Day Towing. Tax Deductible. Call and Donate Today! 1-800-471-0538 ________________________________________________________
-------------- BUSINESS TO BUSINESS -----------Reach 20,000 potential customers in the Mon Valley communities! Advertise your business in the Mon Valley Messenger. Call for more information at 412249-8177. Or e-mail to news@monvalleymessenger.com. ________________________________________________________ FREE WEEK OF ADVERTISING... place your ad in over 1 Million households in free community papers in the Western Counties of Pennsylvania for 5 Weeks and get the 6th Week FREE! Visit www.macnetonline.com/ MICRONETS for more details or call 800-450-7227. ________________________________________________________
REACH CUSTOMERS IN THE MID-ATLANTIC STATES. Place your ad in over 5.2 million households in free community papers for 5 weeks and get the 6th Week FREE.Visit www.macnetonline.com for more details or call 800-450-7227. ________________________________________________________
-------------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES -----------Finleyville - Animal Feed Business for Sale. Call for information 412-551-0664. ________________________________________________________ Home Business Opportunity - Seeking Brand Partners to distribute and promote Vemma, the most complete liquid nutrition program found anywhere. Earn income while promoting a healthy lifestyle! Set your own hours and work from home. Free marketing website. Learn more by visiting our website www.BodyFuel.Vemma.com ________________________________________________________ NOW HIRING: Employees needed to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 Dept. MAC-6811 ________________________________________________________
-------------- COMPUTERS -----------COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837. ________________________________________________________ DELL LAPTOP computer, super fast, excellent condition. Internal wireless card, DVD/CD+RW. Premium software bundle. Six month warranty. Original cost: $2175. Must sell: $399. 717 653-6314 ________________________________________________________ A New Computer Now!!! Brand Name Laptops & Desktops. Bad or NO Credit No Problem Smallest weekly payments avail.It's yours NOW - Call 800-893-0831 ________________________________________________________
-------------- EDUCATION -----------HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6 - 8 weeks. ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma. Get a Job! FREE Brochure 1-800-264-8330 www.diplomafromhome.com ________________________________________________________
---------------- EMPLOYMENT -------------If you have a passion for cooking, we are looking for experienced line prep cook. Available day or evening, PT/FT. Email resume to: riverhousecafe@yahoo.com or call 724-565-5700 and ask for Trey. Experienced Hair Dresser Needed FULL or PART Time • 724-344-4656 Experienced/Accurate Car Representative Needed - he/she must be above 18 years old and must have good qualities to work. Interested applicant should please contact me at dg66008@gmail.com. ________________________________________________________ Home Business Opportunity - Seeking Brand Partners to distribute and promote Vemma, the most complete liquid nutrition program found anywhere. Earn income while promoting a healthy lifestyle! Set your own hours and work from home. Free marketing website. Learn more by visiting our website www.BodyFuel.Vemma.com. or call 412-760-2291. ________________________________________________________
Belle Vernon - Salesperson - 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a highly motivated sales consultant who wants a career and not a job.The position is full time and no traveling required. Income is based on sales consultant abilities. If interested please call 724-929-5040 and fax resumes to 724-929-6855. ________________________________________________________ Full-time position as a relationship developer, telesales professional. Responsible for calling prospects on a regular basis to gain appointments with prospects and follow-up on needs and expectations. Strong clerical skills utilizing MS Office. Canonsburg location. Send resume to 724-916-4777 or jobs@staffmastersinc.com. ________________________________________________________ Babysitter/Nanny for Summer – let your kids sleep and play in the neighborhood. American Red Cross certified experienced, reasonable, references. Call Kelsey at 724-348-6528. SLAGLE ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION, INC. NEEDS... Experienced Roofers to join our team.FULL-TIME.Must have valid driver's license.STOP IN or CALL 724-258-6901. 208 W. Main Street, Monongahela. Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency seeks an experienced Tourism Sales & Marketing Manager. Successful candidate will lead all outside sales and marketing efforts of the Agency to consumer, travel trade, sports, small meeting and corporate markets, as well as assisting in daily destination marketing functions performed by Agency staff. Extensive overnight travel is required, some weekend work also necessary. Degree and hospitality sales experience required, enthusiasm for tourism in Washington County essential. Salary, incentive bonus and benefits package offered. Interested candidates respond immediately to________________________________________________________ info@visitwashington countypa.com or by fax at 724-228-5514. 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a Salesperson. They must have experience in the sales field and is willing to work 10 hour days. If you are interested please send resume to pauljunior@422 homes.com. If you have any questions please call 724-929-5040. ________________________________________________________ Cooks and drivers wanted! Pitstop Bar and Pizza Shop. 412-384-7487. ________________________________________________________ Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with children. Part time or full time positions available. Please call Tammy at________________________________________________________ 724-348-6565 Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts. Ability to multi-task. Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers.Fast food management experience preferred.Will train. Call 724-348-8844. ________________________________________________________ 2011 FEDERAL POSTAL POSITIONS - NOW HIRING! $13.00-$36.50+/hr., Full Benefits/Paid Training. No Experience/Call Today! 1-866-477-4953 Ext. 141 ________________________________________________________ EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS WANTED FOR OUR VAN DIVISION: Heavy Run Between Wisconsin to McConnellsburg, PA, Flex home time. 99% No-Touch Freight. Paid Vacation, 401K Savings Plan/Vision/Dental/ Disability/Health Ins. Offered. Class A CDL, 2 yrs OTR exp. good MVR/References recq. Call Ruth/Mike TTI, Inc. 1-800-558-2664. ________________________________________________________ DRIVERS EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS VAN DIVISION: Runs 48 states, heavy from WI to Philadelphia-Baltimore-MD area. Flex home time. 99% No-Touch. Top Pay! Vacation/ 401K/ Vision/ Dental/ Disability/ Health. Require Class A CDL, 2 yrs OTR exp. good MVR, references. Call Ruth/Mike TTI, Inc. 1-800-558-2664 ________________________________________________________
December 2011 —————————————————————————————————————————— EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED AVON AGENTS WANTED! Start Your Business today. Call NOW for Holiday Cash! 1-800-206-0799. ________________________________________________________ LIFE & HEALTH AGENTS TO SELL COMPREHENSIVE SENIOR PORTFOLIO. Outstanding Commission Schedule, Ongoing Lead Program. Commission Advances. Immediate Vesting. CONTACT Chris@ManorWest Marketing.com 717392-6888 HELP WANTED! Experienced P/T Cook AND P/T Waitress The Hunting Lodge • 724-348-7984 MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily. Get paid to shop pt/ft. Call now 1888-750-0193. ________________________________________________________ PROCESS Mail! Pay Weekly! FREE Supplies! Bonuses! Genuine! Helping Homeworkers since 1992! Call 1-888-302-1522. www.howtoworkfromhome.com ________________________________________________________ Out of High School? 18-24 guys and girls needed. Travel American Hot spots. Paid training, travel and lodging. 877-646.5050 ________________________________________________________ FREE Groceries! Receive $2000 in Grocery Savings! Grocery Stimulus Program provides $2000 savings to participants of shopping survey. ALL MAJOR AND LOCAL supermarkets! Call 877-301-1682 ________________________________________________________ Process mail! Pay weekly! Free supplies! Bonuses! Genuine opportunity! Start immediately! Helping Homeworkers since 1992. 1-888-302-1516. www.howtowork-fromhome.com
Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts. Ability to multi-task. Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred. Will train. Call 724-348-8844. EARN EXTRA CASH WEEKLY!!Work from home as an envelope stuffer.No experience required. Call 1-855-220-1722 or go to www.earncashweeklynow.com ________________________________________________________ $1,000 WEEKLY* PAID IN ADVANCE! MAILING OUR BROCHURES From Home. 100% Legit Income is guaranteed! No Selling! Free Postage! No Experience Needed, Full guidance & Support. www.MailingBrochures Income.com ________________________________________________________ $1000 WEEKLY* PAID IN ADVANCE!!! WE NEED HOME WORKERS TO MAIL OUR COMPANY BROCHURES. www.HelpMailingBrochures.com ***WORK AT HOME*** MAKE $500 / $5,000 MONTHLY - FREE Training & Support!!! www.WorkFromHomeConnection.com ________________________________________________________ $1500 WEEKLY* AT HOME COMPUTER WORK Make Money By Simply Entering Data For Our Company. No Experience Needed! www.AtHomeComputerWork.com ***HOMEWORKERS GET PAID DAILY*** NOW ACCEPTING: www.CashTakingSurveys.com ________________________________________________________ $384 DAILY* AT HOME COMPUTER WORK - LIMITED POSITIONS. Start making money today by simply entering data for our company, No Experience Needed, training provided. www.AtHomeComputerWork.com. Seeking career-oriented professional with current PA insurance licenses for full time position. Property & Casualty license a must; willing to train for Life/Health license. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume’ to 724-258-5880.
-------------- FINANCIAL / INSURANCE ------------South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842. ________________________________________________________ CD Alternative - Current Annuity rates from 3%- 5.05% first year guaranteed depending on the amount of deposit and length of contract. Call 724-731-0071. ________________________________________________________ Buried in Credit Card Debt? Over $10,000? We can get you out of debt quickly and save you thousands of dollars! Call CREDIT CARD RELIEF for your free consultation 1-866-767-5932 ________________________________________________________
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AVOID BANKRUPTCY! Settle debts for less. Call if more than $15,000 of credit card debt. (800) 699-9740 CD ALTERNATIVE - Current Annuity rates from 3%- 5.05% first year guaranteed depending on the amount of deposit and length of contract. Call 724-731-0071. Business Owners? Self-Employed? Tired of hassle with banks to secure working capital? We will show you how to be your own bank. 1-855-922-2453 tchelf@eaglefinancial.biz www.findoutmorenow.com (passcode - TC25) ________________________________________________________ CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY ELIMINATE IT! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys. Need a Minimum $5000 in debt to qualify. Call 1-866-6527630 for help! ________________________________________________________ $$CASH NOW FOR FUTURE PAYMENTS! We will buy your Annuity, Structured Settlement, Royalties or Mortgage Note. Call R&P Capital 1-800-338-5815 ________________________________________________________
--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS ----------Feel the difference with Nature’s Sunshine Products. Healthy Opportunities! www.mynsp.com/jrobbins or call: 412-708-7329 ________________________________________________________ Ensure 'Plus', choc., strawberry and vanilla. $25.00 a case. Call 724-3484676. ________________________________________________________ ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red________________________________________________________ skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-440-8352 DIABETIC TEST STRIPS WANTED: Cash for unopened, unexpired boxes of Diabetic Test Strips. All Brands Considered. Prepaid U.S. Mailing label provided. Trustworthy buyer. God Bless. Call Caleb 1-800-869-1795 or 574-286-6181 ________________________________________________________ ****TAKE VIAGRA/CIALIS? SAVE $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only $99! Call now, Get 4/BONUS Pills FREE! Your Satisfaction or Money Refunded! 1888-796-8870 ________________________________________________________
-------------- ITEMS FOR SALE -----------Penguins Tickets - Penguins vs.Flyers, last game of the year.Open for offers, text to 412-780-5998. ________________________________________________________ Wurlitzer Church Organ - free! 2 level keyboard, floor petals, great condition, you haul. Call 724-258-9115, ask for Karen. ________________________________________________________ Stag Rotary Treadle Sewing Machine - overhauled, excellent condition. $35. Call 412-233-3152. ________________________________________________________ 7' Balsam Pine Tree - 923 tips w/650 clear lights. $125 cash only. 412-9973869 ________________________________________________________ Bed Frame - Full size with (4) Legs and Rug Rollers. New in box. $40.00. For more information, call 724-684-5531. ________________________________________________________ Cub Cadet – 12–14 HP - 40 Inch Cut comes with snow blower attachment and garden discs. $800 or BO. Call 724-322-2458 for more information. ________________________________________________________ CB Ham Radio – realistic, with all cords and mic. $25 Pro 20120 programmable________________________________________________________ 40 channels. Call 724-322-2458 for more information. 1989 Classic Cadillac – Fleetwood, 19k miles. Garage kept. Never used in winter-mint condition. Silver. Asking for $9000. Taking offers. For more information, call________________________________________________________ 724-322-2458. Oak Country Furniture - Oak Country Dresser (6 drawers), $160.00. Oak Country Chest Drawers (6 drawers), $100.00. Like new. Buy separate or together.________________________________________________________ For more information, call 724-322-2458. Leather Jacket - Misses, size 10, black, zip out lining, dressy style, excellent condition. $25. Call 724-929-3891. ________________________________________________________ Fine China by Treasure House - Fleetwood 43 pieces,service for 8,plus extras, dishes are off white, edged with silver band, small pink roses and green leaves in center. Must see to appreciate quality and condition. $150.00 Call 724-9293891. ________________________________________________________ Coat - Men's size 38, all weather, fur type lining and collar, light brown, new. $20. Call 724-929-3891. ________________________________________________________ Cemetery lots. Lafayette Memorial Park. Garden of Serenity. 4 lots at $5,400. Selling for $2,400. 724-938-7307. SURREY FOR SALE! 3-Seated, Horse Drawn: $1,500. • Horse Back Riding Lessons. • Riding Horses for Sale! www.logcabinstables.com. 724787-4817 FREE! – Upright Piano. Union Township. You haul. For details, call 724-3487557. ________________________________________________________
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BEDS!!! Pillow Tops, Plush, Memory Foam. 10 YEAR WARRANTIES!!! New, still in factory plastic. FULL $179. QUEEN $199; KING $245 (Twins Available) IMMEDIATE DELIVERY!!! CALL (412) 494-7351 ________________________________________________________ CLARINET, FLUTE, VIOLIN, Trumpet,Trombone,Amplifier, Fender Guitar $70. ea. Cello, Upright Bass, Saxophone, French Horn, Drums $190. ea. Tuba, Baritone, Others. 1-516-377-7907. ________________________________________________________ MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA VISCO MATTRESSESWHOLESALE! T$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY 25 YEAR WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP 1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR. COM ________________________________________________________
----------- ITEMS WANTED -------Wanted to buy - large roll top desk. Call 724-348-0506. ________________________________________________________ Canning Jars Wanted. Reasonable. 412-403-2753. ________________________________________________________ Wanted to Buy. Silver Coins. 1964 or older. Will pay 20-times face value! Call Dave at 724-941-5420. ________________________________________________________ Wanted - Treadmill.Good running condition.Incline is a must! Reasonable.724258-8324. ________________________________________________________ Misc. Items Wanted - 30x30x15 Greenhouse kit and supplies to build greenhouse; Small camping trailer - reasonable; Water storage tank (5,000 or 3,000 Gal________________________________________________________ tank); Used water storage tank; Old farm fencing. 724-344-8784. Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622. WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me. Jim Gillespie at 412979-7050 or home 724-348-6203. JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ________________________________________________________ WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture,Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me.Jim Gillespie at 412-979-7050 or________________________________________________________ home 724-348-6203. WANTED YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS Unexpired Any Kind/Brand. Up to $22.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Hablamos espanol. 1-800-267-9895 / www.SellDiabeticstrips.com ________________________________________________________ WANTED DIABETES TEST STRIPS Any kind/brand. Unexpired up to $22.00. Shipping Paid Hablamos espanol 1-800-266-0702 www.selldiabeticstrips.com ________________________________________________________ FAST PAYMENT for sealed, unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS-up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. Call today & ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com ________________________________________________________ YEARBOOKS "Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks 1900-1988. yearbookusa@yahoo.com or 972-768-1338." ________________________________________________________
----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Bus Tours - Niagara Falls, no passport needed, New York City Express, December 2 - 4, 2011, $449 per person, Rockettes Xmas Spectacular included. Call 724-292-8043 or 412-513-4020 for details. ________________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724825-7233. ________________________________________________________ DISH Network delivers more for less! Packages starting at $24.99/mo, Local channels included! FREE HD for life! Free BLOCKBUSTER® movies for 3 months. 1-888-691-3801 ________________________________________________________
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ACR METAL ROOFING - GO GREEN - tax credits agricultural, commercial, residential. Building packages, top quality, low cost, FREE literature. acrmetal.com, 800-325-1247 ________________________________________________________ MEDIATION - Are you involved in a dispute and do not know the next step to take to get it resolved? Mediation is an option. Has your spouse filed for divorce and you need help in managing the decisions that need to be made? Do you have a consumer dispute? Do you have a conflict in your neighborhood? Do you have a conflict within your family and you need an impartial third party to help the family solve the problem? Then it is Time 2 Talk. As a mediator with 30 years experience, I can help you to talk it out, and negotiate decisions that get the problem resolved. My name is Deidre Kuban and it is Time 2 Talk.The initial 30 minute consultation with me is at no cost to you. Resume and references available on request. Call me at 412-726-1514 or e-mail kuban231@comcast.net.. Christmas Trees Wholesale 5-10ft. Douglas Fir and Scotch Pine. Also, Landscaping evergreens. Central Pa. D & H Tree Farm, dandhtreefarm.com (814) 345-5055 mrtree@gotmc.net ________________________________________________________ PRICES REDUCED!!! EXOTIC FARM ANIMALS "MINIATURES" Donkeys,Horses!!!! ALSO, SCOTTISH HIGHLAND CATTLE View complete list www.WindingCreeksFarm.biz Call 717-926-8806 ________________________________________________________ HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED? Contact Woodford Bros., Inc. for straightening, leveling, foundation, and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN/ www.woodfordbros.com MDHIC #05-121-861 ________________________________________________________ QUALITY WATERPROOFING! Large Local Company. Lifetime Transferable Warranty. BBB Award Winner. Attorney General Approved 377. 1-800-343-2357 ________________________________________________________ VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg!! 40 Pills 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. Only $2.70/pill. Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-888418-6450 ________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 5 only 25x30, 30x38, 40x60, 45x74, 50x102. Must Move Now! Selling for Balance Owed! Free Delivery! 1-800-211-9593 x 62 ________________________________________________________ DISH Network More Choices, More savings! FREE HD FOR LIFE. Packages starting at $24.99 for 12 months w/60 channels 1-888-444-7854 Restrictions apply. Call for details ________________________________________________________ FREE GAS! Receive $300 Gasoline Savings! Gasoline Stimulus Program provides $300 gas savings to participants of driving survey. Local Stations - Major Brands ! ________________________________________________________ Call now 877-898-9027 Dish Network lowest nationwide price $19.99/MO. FREE HBO/Cinemax/Starz FREE Blockbuster FREE HD-DVR and install. Next day install 1-800-306-5814 ________________________________________________________ ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com ________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 4 only 25x36,30x48,40x52,45x82.Sell For Balance Owed! Free Delivery! 1-800-411-5869 x272 ________________________________________________________ $$OLD GUITARS WANTED$$ Gibson, Fender, Martin, Gretsch. 1920's to 1980's. Top Dollar paid. Toll Free: 1-866-433-8277 ________________________________________________________ FREE Groceries! Receive $2000 in Grocery Savings! Grocery Stimulus Program provides $2000 savings to participants of shopping survey. ALL MAJOR AND LOCAL supermarkets! Call 877-301-1682 ________________________________________________________ Get trained to fix jets at campuses coast to coast for jobs nationwide.Financial aid________________________________________________________ if you qualify. Call AIM (866)453-6204 or visit www.fixjets.com
Your source for hometown, community news...
the
MON VALLEY MESSENGER
Phone or Fax: 412.249.8177 • Email: news@monvalley.com
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CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY. Instant offer: 1-800-864-5784 ________________________________________________________ CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY GET IT REMOVED! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys. Need a Minimum $5000 in debt to qualify. Please call________________________________________________________ 1-866-652-7630! **OLD GUITARS WANTED!** Fender, Gibson, Martin, Gretsch, Prairie State, Euphonon, Larson, D’Angelico, Stromberg, Rickenbacker, and Mosrite. Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1930’s thru 1970’s TOP CASH PAID! 1-800-401-0440 ________________________________________________________ AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888) 686-1704 ________________________________________________________
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ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com ________________________________________________________ AUTHENTIC NEW TEMPURPEDIC MATTRESS CLEARANCE! 20-30% OFF FACTORY RETAIL PRICING- FREE SHIPPING - NO TAX CALL 813-889-9020 FOR DETAILSLIMITED SUPPLY CALL NOW! ________________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960 ________________________________________________________ CASH PAID for unexpired,sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS- up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. FAST payment. Ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com ________________________________________________________
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DIRECTV $0 Start Costs! 285+ Channels! Starts $29.99/mo FREE HBO/Showtime/Starz/Cinemax 3 Months + FREE HD Channels + FREE HD/DVR Upgrade! FREE Installation! $0 Start! (800) 329-6061 ________________________________________________________ DIRECTV Fall Special! Free HD, 3 mos FREE HBO|Showtime| Starz|Cinemax, NFL SUNDAY TICKET™ Free with CHOICE XTRA or above – Pkgs from $29.99/mo. Ends 11/23/11! Call 866-397-2788 ________________________________________________________ Get TV & Internet for UNDER $50/mo. For 6 mos.PLUS Get $300 Back!-select plans. Limited Time ONLY Call NOW! 866-944-0906 ________________________________________________________ GET YOUR DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com ________________________________________________________ HANDS ON Aviation Career – Become an Aviation Maintenance Technician.FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call AIM (877) 206-1503 ________________________________________________________ Reach over 20 million homes nationwide with one easy buy! Only $2,395 per week for a 25 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com ________________________________________________________ WORK ON JET ENGINES – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866) 854-6156. ________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDING SALE! US National Steel now selling directly to the public. CLEARANCE SALE on all prefabricated kits. FREE SHIPPING! 1-800-917-7080. ________________________________________________________ AT&T U-Verse for just $29.99/mo! SAVE when you bundle Internet+ Phone+TV and get up to $300 BACK! (Select plans). Limited Time Call NOW! 1-866-9440906 ________________________________________________________ Enjoy Better TV DISH Network Authorized Retailer Offers, FREE HD for Life, Packages from $19.99/mo. Includes locals, 3 HD receivers free. Restrictions Apply. Call NOW!! (877) 594-2251 ________________________________________________________
------------- NOTICES ---------Compulsive Eaters Anonymous - H.O.W. is a free, 12 Step program for people who have a problem controlling their eating. We have meetings every day throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. For more information, call 412-2251664,e-mail info@ceahowpa.org or visit www.ceahowpa.org.It's simple,free and it________________________________________________________ works. Please keep coming back no matter what! Monongahela Class of 1967 - planning 45 year class reunion in September 2012. We are inviting anyone who would like to help in the planning of this event to please contact Kathy at 724-258-7399 or Patti at 724-782-0141. Next meeting________________________________________________________ is Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m. at Paul Lacko's home on Route 136. LOST – Wedding Ring. Men’s. White Gold. Lost while driving along Rt. 88 near Mingo Church Road, Finleyville. Very sentimental and important. Reward offered. If________________________________________________________ found, please call 412-760-2291. ATTENTION Diabetics with Medicare Join America`s Diabetic Savings Club and receive a FREE diabetic bracelet. Membership is FREE. Qualify for meter upgrades, prescription delivery and free giveaways. Call 1-888-474-3420 ________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 866-983-3264 ________________________________________________________
------------- PETS ---------14 New Zealand White Bunnies - $15 each.Also,2 female New Zealand white rabbits for sale for $25 each. If interested, please call 724-239-2196. ________________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer. Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted dogs! 724-249-5777. ________________________________________________________ Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care, daily cleaning and turn out,large indoor arena,outdoor and miles of trails.Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month. (724) 348-8028. ________________________________________________________ ANGELS FOR ANIMALS. Collecting Aluminum Cans for an on-going fundraiser. (Please no steel, no pie tins, and no aluminum foil.) Also selling Enjoy & Entertainment Books for $25.00 each. For pick up of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724-941-5737. Dog Training: If your dog isn’t coming to you, you should be coming to me. AKC, Schutzhund, canine good citizen and therapy dog experienced contact karyn727@comcast.net or 412-855-4678 Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care, daily cleaning and turn out,large indoor arena,outdoor and miles of trails.Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month. (724) 348-8028. ________________________________________________________
------------ REAL ESTATE -------House for rent - Monongahela, 822 Marne St., 2 bedroom, very clean, big 2 car garage, very nice porch, possible rent to own, no pets, $600 per month. Call 412296-1999. ________________________________________________________ Mobile home for sale - 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, mobile home and 3 lots for sale. Located at 2 Wood Alley in Carroll Twp. Off Rt. 837, Monongahela. Owner financing considered. $35,000. Call 724-350-5983. FOR SALE – Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534 Apartment for rent - 3 bedroom downstairs apartment located at 230 Donnan Ave., Washington, gas furnace and/or electric baseboard heat, large corner yard, $500 per month plus utilities. First and last month's rent required. Call 724-2589115. ________________________________________________________ 1 flr brick house - a/c & generator. 715 Lincoln Ave., Bentleyville. $160,000. Call 724-239-3647. ________________________________________________________ 1 Bedroom Apartment for Rent - in the Union Twp. area. Fenced in big yard in a quiet neighborhood. Reasonable rent and clean. Please email me at Budlife3@hotmail.com or call 724-993-0731. ________________________________________________________ Westmoreland County Space for Lease - Located at 1100 South Main Street, Greensburg, is Westmoreland Crossroads with 22,000 Square Feet of prime space available for lease.The holidays are coming and Westmoreland Crossroads offers fantastic storefront suites with abundant parking and direct access to Route 30 and Route 119.Westmoreland Crossroads has a prime location within a hightraffic area and affordable monthly rates. Don't let the cool weather fool you, we have time to put you in the space you need. Call Matthew Ivill today at 724-4831600 or email him at lease@genindustries.com. ________________________________________________________ 1 Bedroom Apartment - for rent in the Union twp. area. Fenced in big yard in a quiet neighborhood. Reasonable rent and clean. Please email me at Budlife3@hotmail.com or call 724-993-0731. ________________________________________________________ Small house for rent. Country setting. Suitable for one person. Includes sewage and garbage. Close to Rt. 43. No pets. $550 per month. 724-785-2955 ________________________________________________________ Residential lot. South Park. $30,000. Ridge Road. For details email DeniseMarasco@HowardHanna.com or call 4125617400. ________________________________________________________ Apt for Rent - 2 BR, 2nd flr., country, private, by itself. Laundry rm. & porch. Lots of________________________________________________________ parking. Updated. No pets. $525+. Call (412) 384-5406. (4632 US RT 40, Claysville) $244,900 - Commercial Building, Offices, Warehouse, 5000+ SF. All Equip. included! Make offer!! Lisa Mull, Prudential Preferred Realty 412-854-7200 ext 228 or 724-678-2454. ________________________________________________________ Building for Rent – 40x60 commercial bldg for rent at 780 Bentleyville Rd., Charleroi, PA. Located just off I-70, Exit 32B, Bentleyville. Call 724-258-9115. ________________________________________________________ 1999 Commodore mobile home. exc. condition. Only 1 owner - bought brand new in 2001. Call 412-600-9061 ________________________________________________________ 2008 Tioga 31M Motorhome - 12,200 miles, like new, loaded, dual slide, 6.8 V10 engine, 5 speed automatic, many upgrades-too many to list. $62,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667. ________________________________________________________ House for Rent - Newly remodeled older 3 or 4 bedroom house for rent in Peters Twp/Venetia. Extra room could be den or bedroom. First, last and security deposit required and credit check. Monthly rent $1200.00 plus utilities. Separate 1 car garage with room for storage or workshop. Has refrigerator, stove and hook ups for________________________________________________________ washer and dryer. New kitchen and carpeting. Big yard. Call 724-348-5162. Charleroi Sale or Lease - Renovated 3-Story Building. Commercial lease income. Also, turnkey bar/restaurant. Call: 724-531-1175. ________________________________________________________ Office Space For Rent – Finleyville. 1,300 square feet. Former site of Healthy Directions. $800 + Electric. 412-999-7163. FOR SALE. Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534 MONONGAHELA - For rent, one, two bedroom apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc. Secured locked building, quaint and quiet. Close to bus line. One bedroom partially furnished. Monongahela. Call 724-258-3179. ________________________________________________________ One, Two Bedroom Apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc. Secured locked building, quant and quite. Close to bus line. One bedroom partial furnished. Monongahela. Call Natalee Amati 724-244-8579 or 724-258-3179. ________________________________________________________ FOR RENT - Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfront condorentals.com/ Paradise Resort.htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ________________________________________________________
December 2011 —————————————————————————————————————————— New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negotiable. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773. AUCTION TENNESSEE LAND 440Ac/88Ac Meigs, Monroe Co; Offered Divided Small & Large Tracts ONLINE NOW www.LandAuction411.com (931) 796-3505 Middle Tennessee Realty & Auction, LLC TN5576-10%BP ________________________________________________________ LOTS & ACREAGE ADIRONDACK MTNS. 5 ACRES Adjoins State Land / Horse Trails Snowmobile / ATV Trail system ONLY $22,900 CALL NOW (877) 471-4286 Land Videos at mooseriverland.com ________________________________________________________ LOTS & ACREAGE NY FARM LIQUIDATION! 10 acres - $24,900 Best views in the County! Just north of the PA border! Nice meadows, stonewalls 100% buildable! Won't last at this price! (866) 495-8733 ________________________________________________________ REAL ESTATE-HOUSES FOR SALE UPSTATE NY MINI-FARM! 9 ac Farmhouse/Barn - $124,900 Nice old farmhouse, 15,000 sq ft. barn, beautiful upstate NY setting 3 hrs NYC! Fields, views! Call NOW! (888) 738-6994. www.NewYorkLandand Lakes.com ________________________________________________________ Stop Renting Lease option to buy Rent to own No money down No credit check 1-877-395-0321 ________________________________________________________ ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment. Call now 800-250-2043. ________________________________________________________ ARIZONA RANCH Lots! 50%OFF! 15AAA+ View Lots $0Down! Starting $99/mo! Guaranteed Financing! Near Tucsons Intl Airport www.sunsiteslandrush.com 1800-659-9957 PromoCode CPF ________________________________________________________ Available Now!!! 2-4 Bedroom homes Take Over Payments No Money Down/No Credit Check Call 1-888-269-9192 ________________________________________________________ 40 ACRES, COLORADO $19,500! $200 down, $200/month. Surveyed, good road, easy access to fishing rivers, streams, lakes. Near ski areas and mountain recreation, Owner, 806-376-8690 diane.steed@att.net ________________________________________________________ 20 ACRES To Live On ONLY $99/mo. $0/Down. No Credit Checks, Money Back Guarantee, Owner Financing. Near Growing El Paso Texas. Beautiful Mountain Views! Free Color Brochure. 1-800-843-7537. www.sunsetranches.com ________________________________________________________
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South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842 ________________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer. Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted dogs! 724-249-5777. ________________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724825-7233. ________________________________________________________ DVD Transfer/Home Movies – Home Movie Transfers and DVD Montage Creations by Deb Cheplic. 8mm and Super 8mm projector movies transferred to DVD! Frame by frame digital transfer, with amazing clarity. No hidden costs/set up fees.Add music and chapter menus. 724-258-5336. http://web.me.com/dcheplic. MEDIATION -Are you involved in a dispute and do not know the next step to take to get it resolved? Mediation is an option. Has your spouse filed for divorce and you need help in managing the decisions that need to be made? Do you have a consumer dispute? Do you have a conflict in your neighborhood? Do you have a conflict within your family and you need an impartial third party to help the family solve the problem? Then it is Time 2 Talk.As a mediator with 30 years experience, I can help you to talk it out, and negotiate decisions that get the problem resolved. My name is Deidre Kuban and it is Time 2 Talk. The initial 30 minute consultation with me is at no cost to you. Resume and references available on request. Call me at 412-726-1514 or e-mail kuban231@comcast.net. COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837. ________________________________________________________ SIDING WINDOWS ROOFING MEREDITH HOME IMPROVEMENTS. 30 years in business. If you need vinyl siding, roofing, windows or soffit and fascia done professionally, with no problems afterward and done at a reasonable price, we are the company to do it! We are so confident in your satisfaction that we require no money until the job is completed. www.MeredithHome Improvements.com (412) 8319991 ________________________________________________________
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BABYSITTER / NANNY For Summer - Let your kids sleep in & play in the neighborhood. American Red Cross Certified, Experienced, Reasonable, References. Kelsey: 724-348-6528. ________________________________________________________
Ask yourself, what is your TIMESHARE worth? We will find a buyer/renter for CA$H NO GIMMICKS JUST RESULTS! www.BuyATime share.com Call 888-8798612 ________________________________________________________
The MON VALLEY MESSENGER is the premier community newspaper in the Mon Valley area of Pittsburgh. We are a free, monthly publication seeking to expand our coverage, and grow existing territories. The MON VALLEY MESSENGER is looking to add experienced Advertising Sales Representatives to our growing team of professionals. Candidates should possess: Strong sales and/or customer service skills, ability to offer clients advice on ad content and design, handle several projects at once, work on a deadline, familiarity with Mon Valley area, reliable transportation, flexible schedule, computer with internet access and a personable, friendly attitude. Preferred candidates will possess: Prior newspaper or media experience, good communication and presentation skills and be motivated, determined and persistent. Interested applicants should email us at info@monvalleymessenger.com with a resume and cover letter, or mail to P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332.
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----------- VACATIONS ---------------Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony.For complete weekly and seasonal pricing,visit the website - www.oceanfrontcondo rentals.com/ParadiseResort. htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843-236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ________________________________________________________ Bus Tours - New York City Express, December 2 - 4, 2011, $449 per person, Rockettes Xmas Spectacular included. Call 724-292-8043 or 412-513-4020 for details. ________________________________________________________ WEEKEND GETAWAY! Deep Creek, Maryland. 5 Bedroom Home for Rent. *Ski Wisp*, Call Dave at 412.427.3691 for more details! ________________________________________________________
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READER ADVISORY: Reader Advisory: the National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment” but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.
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CLASSIFIEDS
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Available at Over 170 Area Locations! ALLENPORT Mon Valley Community Federal Credit Union BELLE VERNON/ ROSTRAVER AREA Belle Vernon Door Sales Belle Vernon Public Library BFS Foods Bill’s Golfland - Restaurant Bill’s Golfland - Driving Range Cedarbrook Golf Course Center on the Hill Charleroi Federal Savings Bank Eagles landing II Eat N Park Fantastic Sams First National Bank (inside Shop n Save) Hoss’s Steak House Jake’s Pizza Just-A-Tavern Keystone Bakery Martins Flowers & Shrubs Ollie's Bargain Outlet PNC Bank, Broad Avenue Ponderosa Restaurant Port Royal Village Roadside Restaurant Rostraver Drug Store Rostraver Public Library Sheetz, Inc. Standard Pharmacy Sweet Nostalgia Sweeney’s Steakhouse Teddy’s Tavern Toscano’s Salon Val’s Beer Distributor & Car Wash Willowbrook Car Wash Wingin’ It Wal Mart
BENTLEYVILLE Amish Storehouse Bentleyville Giant Eagle Bentleyville Public Library Bentworth Senior Center Best Western Garden Inn Charleroi Federal Savings Bank Giant Eagle Holiday Inn Express King’s Family Restaurant King of the Hill Steakhouse Kuzy’s Drug Store Sammy’s Smoke Shop CARROLL TOWNSHIP Bartolotta's Giant Eagle Havencerst Nursing Center Mon Valley Community Federal Credit Union Mon Valley Hospital (Concierge Desk in lobby) Mon Valley YMCA New Country Club Deli Spartan Health Center Valley Inn VFD Social Hall CHARLEROI / NORTH CHARLEROI BJ's Diner Char House High Rise Charleroi Area Senior High School Charleroi Federal Savings Bank Charleroi Save-A-Lot Citizens Bank City Beer Distributor Crest Avenue Apartments Dee’s Record Shop Diddlebugs Pizza Double M’s Pizza Home Warehouse Interiors John K. Tener Library Maple Creek Beer Distributor Medved’s Pharmacy
Mid-Mon Valley Transit Authority Mon Valley Community FCU Mon Valley Office Equipment Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce My Girls Korner Kitchen Pet Boutique Rego’s Restaurant Riverside Place SPHS Aging Services Robert’s Dairy Queen Salatino’s River House Café Sezannaquins Deli Studio K S.W.PA Human Services Susan Jo’s Salon
Greater Monessen Historical Society Giannini Distributing Co. Keystone Bakery Libby’s Dairy Bar Monessen High School Monessen Public Library Monessen Senior Center Pasta Shop Sammy’s Smoke Shop SPHS Family Health Complex Torn Page Union Cleaners Union Pharmacy Valley 1st Community Federal Credit Union
DONORA Anthony’s Italiano Donora Lumber Donora Public Library Donora Senior Center Donora Towers First Federal Savings Bank Hanna’s Wholesale Kesten Restaurant Equipment Muia Studio / Formality PA Career Link Unimart Union Pharmacy
MONONGAHELA / NEW EAGLE 7-Eleven / BP (Monongahela) 7-Eleven / BP (New Eagle) Ashcraft Self Storage Bees Nest Diner Cox’s Market Chaney's Natural Charleroi Federal Devore Hardware Eat n' Park - Monongahela Family Dollar First Federal Savings First Niagara Bank Foodland - Monongahela Hey Andy Restaurant & Bar Hidden Treasures Store Hill's Restaurant JEM Lounge John Lignelli Manor (Senior Care home) Madonna Regional Catholic School McDonald's (Monongahela) Mon Valley Laundrymat Mon Valley Music Monongahela Animal Hospital
DUNLEVY Highway Appliance Mon Valley Fitness Center FAYETTE CITY Strickler’s Auction MONESSEN Buzzy Byron’s Citizen’s Bank City of Monessen Municipal Bldg. Douglas Education Center
Monongahela Area Library Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce Monongahela City Hall Monongahela Elementary Center Monongahela Manor (Senior Highrise) Monongahela Post Office (1st floor) New Eagle Bakery & Pizzeria New Eagle Borough Municipal Building BOX - beside New Eagle boro bldg. The Medicine Shoppe Transfiguration Parish Peggy's Mini Mart PNC Bank Ringgold Senior High School Rite-Aid (New BIG location) St. Anthony's Church Sheetz U-Haul (Peno's Plaza)
PERRYOPOLIS B&B family Diner Perry Drug Store Randall’s Restaurant SMITHTON Jack's Super Market SPEERS Campy's Pizza Forever Jewelry & Awards Lorraine’s Family Restaurant Magic City Mart Mon Valley Career & Tech. Center Sammy’s Smoke Shop Smitty’s Marina and Grill Speers Street Grill STOCKDALE Spee-D Food Mart
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Think it’s easy to dodge millions of flu germs traveling at 100 miles per hour?
Protect yourself with a flu shot. Healthy Directions’ flu vaccine protects against the influenza A and B viruses and H1N1. Only $25
Major insurance accepted
Walk-in
Finleyville Giant Eagle, 3701 Route 88, Finleyville, PA, 724-348-6699 Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; (Lab opens at 7 a.m. Monday-Saturday) Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
mvhhealthydirections.com