Mon Valley Messenger- January 2012 by South Hills Mon Valley Messenger

Vol. 1, Issue 6

2012

JANUARY

Health & Fitness Guide

SCHOOL NEWS: Mon Valley YMCA Youth

Page 38

and Government Club Returns From State Convention Page 32

Ripepi Winery Reopens to the Public After 10 Years By Samantha Milton

Ripepi Winery and Vineyard, located at 93 Van Voorhis Lane in Monongahela, reopened this December after being closed to the public for nearly 10 years. Owner Rich Ripepi, of Monongahela, planted the first grapes for the winery back in 1986. “We still have quite a few 25-year-old vines that make our winery unique,” said Ripepi. The winery was last open to the public in 2001. However, it did remain operating for the Ripepi’s personal wine making, while the rest of the grapes were being shipped to Forks of Cheat Winery in Morgantown, WV. “We are excited to be up and running again and thankful for the support and help of all our friends and family, who have helped us with picking and Rich Ripepi (right) and friend Pete, harvesting the grapes,” Ripepi added. The winery was supposed who helps with the winery, show off the lobby of the to have opened last year, but because of a heavy frost, all of the Ripepi Winery and Vineyard in Monongahela. grapes were ruined. This year there are nearly 8,000 grapes with 1,000 more to be added in the spring. With everything being handmade, down to the labels on the bottles, Ripepi Winery is a unique find in the Mon Valley. The wine list includes a sweet white Diamond, sweet white Apple, sweet rose Valley Sunrise, slightly-sweet red Steuben, dry red Cabernet, dry red Chancellor, and an oak-aged dry red Chancellor Oaked each ranging from $11.99 to $17.99 a bottle. Ripepi encourages customers to stop in for a wine tasting and plans to have tours of the winery starting up in the spring. Wine can be purchased in the lobby of Ripepi Winery Monday- Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. and soon online from RipepiWinery.com. For more information, call 724-292-8351 or email sales@ripepiwinery.com.

INDEX: Local News . . . . . . . . 3 Places To Go . . . . . . . 4 Business . . . . . . . . . . 22 People . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Ask The Experts . . . 26 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . 28 School . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Kids & Family . . . . . 32 Food & Dining . . . . . 34 Local Worship . . . . . 35 Home & Garden . . . 36 Senors . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Entertainment . . . . . 43 Classifieds . . . . . . . . 44

FRE COP E Y!

BVA Superintendent Announces Retirement Long -time Mon Valley educator Steve Russell will retire from his post as the chief school administrator at the conclusion of the present school year. Russell became superintendent of the Belle Vernon Area School District in November of 2008 following a career spanning six years of classroom teaching at Monongahela Steve Russell High School, now part of the Ringgold School District. He also spent 33 years as an assistant Belle Vernon Area High School principal and junior high and middle school principal. He stated, “It has been a privilege to be associated with the Belle Vernon Area School both as a student and administrator since 1959. Through these many decades I have continued to find resilience in the students I have been able to mold, guide and motivate. To each and every board member, thank you for the honor to serve the district.” The Belle Vernon Area Board of Directors will begin a search for a new superintendent immediately through the services of the Westmoreland County Intermediate Unit VII.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Resident Believes Government Should Provide Basic Needs for All Dear Editor, The "entitlements" for every human being everywhere should be food, clothing, shelter, and medicine. To the extent that they do not exist, the elected government should legislate to provide them. They are the birth right of every human being. Whether you are a conservative or a liberal, you should be a socialist in regards to these obvious necessities of life. I am not advocating filet mignon, cashmere clothing, luxury housing or free medicine. But I am advocating government-determined minimums for these basic entitlements. After all, most of us would provide them for a wild animal. So why can't we do it for ourselves? And we can afford to do so without infringing upon the ambitions and the achievements of capitalist entrepreneurs. Cutting 20% of the military budget would provide enough money to take care of food, clothing, shelter and medicine for those of us who do not get them. And no kid would go to bed hungry ... not here in America ... in the land of the free, the home of the brave, and the fertile fields of the very rich.

For more information about graduation rates, median debt of students who completed the programs, and consumer information, please visit: www.dec.edu/consumerinfo.html

Gene Kuban, Eighty-four, PA

Letters to the Editor can be submitted via e-mail to editor@monvalleymessenger.com or by mail to P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332. All Letters to the Editor must be signed and must contain the author’s return address and telephone number for verification. Letters will be printed as submitted whenever possible; however, we reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and taste, and to refuse to publish any and all letters received. Letters to the Editor represent the unsolicited opinions of our readers and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Mon-Valley Messenger, its owners, editorial board, or writing staff. No compensation is offered for any submission, and the author assumes all responsibility for the accuracy and ramifications of their submission.

Email your news to news@monvalleymessenger.com

Call (724) 489.0880 and GET

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SEE WHAT TRANSIT PROGRAM FITS YOU Commuters, Job Seekers, Senior Citizens, Shoppers, Students & Persons with Disabilities

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LOCAL NEWS

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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE – at American Legion, Carroll Twp. from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. $15 per person or $25 per couple. Smoke free, fun crowd. For more information, call 724-632-5873. JANUARY 2 FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email ClogginCliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com. JANUARY 8 GROCERY BINGO – Holy Ghost Church Social Center, 9th Street and Meadow Avenue, Charleroi. 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 724-489-0500. JANUARY 9 FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

All members are encouraged to attend. For more information, call 724-9846611. JANUARY 13 – 14 BATMAN MOVIE SLEEPOVER – at the Mon Valley YMCA for ages 9-17 from 8:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. Saturday, January 14. A permission slip needs to be filled out for anyone 9-12 years of age. For more information call Adorée DelucaJohnson, at 724-483-8077 ext. 206. JANUARY 14 SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE – at the Mon Valley YMCA. Free for all YMCA members and only $5.00 for guests. Call Adorée Deluca-Johnson, for more information a't 724-483-8077 ext. 206. JANUARY 15 GROCERY BINGO - Holy Ghost Church Social Center, 9th Street and Meadow Avenue, Charleroi. 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 724-489-0500. MON VALLEY COIN CLUB – Charleroi Senior Citizens Center, monthly meeting, 2 p.m. Foreign coins will be the topic of discussion this month. The general public is invited. For more information, call 724-984-6611.

JANUARY 10 COUPON CLUB MEETING – Monongahela Area Library, Activity Room, 5:30 p.m. Swap coupons the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. For more information, call the library at 724-258-5409.

JANUARY 16 FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValley Cloggers.com.

JANUARY 12 CHARLEROI MASONIC LODGE FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS - regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. in the Charleroi Masonic Hall, corner of 7th & McKain.

JANUARY 21 DANCE – at the American Legion, Carroll Twp. from 8 to 11 p.m., $6 a person. Music will be provided by the Laurel Valley Country, vocals by Luann.

JANUARY 22 GROCERY BINGO - Holy Ghost Church Social Center, 9th Street and Meadow Avenue, Charleroi. 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 724-489-0500. JANUARY 23 FREE BEGINNER DANCE CLOG LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValley Cloggers.com. JANUARY 25 LINCOLN ON LUNCH - Charleroi Presbyterian Church from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. Lunch is free but donations are accepted. For more information, call 724-984-6611. JANUARY 27 FISH FRY – St Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St., Monongahela, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Also Ash Wednesday, February 22, and all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available. Fish, shrimp, crab cakes, baked fish dinners, fish sandwiches, soups, coleslaw, French fries, fried zucchini strips, homemade desserts, and beverages. For more information, call 724-258-7792. JANUARY 28 PSYCHIC FAIR – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Avenue, West Mifflin, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a variety of psychics/mediums/tarot card and rune readers and an aura photographer to choose from. There will be metaphysical items, books, jewelry, and gemstones for sale. For a $5 donation, you will receive a nice lunch. All donations are welcomed and help keep The Chapel a place for everyone to grow spiritually in many ways. Even if you do not want

a reading, please stop down and check us out and find out about our spiritual church and psychic development classes and Reiki shares. JANUARY 29 GROCERY BINGO - Holy Ghost Church Social Center, 9th Street and Meadow Avenue, Charleroi. 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 724-489-0500. JANUARY 30 FREE BEGINNER DANCE CLOG LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com. JANUARY 31 SILVERSNEAKERS® OPEN HOUSE – at the Mon Valley YMCA from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for all SilverSneakers® eligible members. For more information, please call 724-483-8077 or stop in to see if you qualify.

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LOCAL NEWS

Local ABATE Sponsors “Presents for Patients” By Miranda Startare

Patients at the Monongahela Valley Hospital and two local nursing homes received an early Christmas when members of the Mon Valley chapter of ABATE (Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education) donated and delivered a bundle of gifts. Every patient in the hospital and every resident in Havencrest Nursing Center and the Monongahela High Rise received a gift. The funds used to purchase the gifts were generated from the various fundraisers sponsored by ABATE. ABATE, a motorcyclist organization, has been participating in the “Presents for Patients” program for 8 years. According to ABATE member Roy Sluk, Santa and one of his “reindeer” arrive at Monongahela Valley Hospital ready to deliver the organization delivers approximately Christmas cheer – and gifts. 250-500 presents annually during the event. Santa Claus himself joined the 25-30 members to help deliver all the gifts on Sunday, December 11, 2011. Many members travelled to the three locations on motorcycle, of course. Children and grandchildren also helped deliver the gifts. President Dave Lucchesi, Chapter Rep. Dennis Saputo, Sr., Vice President Patty Hefner, and “Merle,” a Sgt. of Arms, were among the many members The Mon Valley ABATE brought Santa to help deliver gifts participating that chilly at the Monongahela High Rise. Sunday. Patients and residents were also treated to the gift of song as ABATE members and family sung Christmas carols during their giftgiving. ABATE of PA formed in 1983 as an alliance of bikers dedicated to the protection of motorcyclists’ rights. They help enact political change through charitable works and the education of the Mon Valley ABATE members and family prepare to deliver gifts public about motorcycle to patients at Monongahela Valley Hospital. awareness. There are currently 50 ABATE chapters in Pennsylvania alone. Information about ABATE can be found on their website at abatepa.org.

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LOCAL NEWS

News from the Monongahela Area Library For those looking to swap coupons, or trade tips on saving big at the checkout in 2012, the Monongahela Area Library is the place to be. A new Coupon Club is forming under the leadership of Finleyville resident Oliva Walker. The group met twice in late 2011 with some degree of success. Thanks to those meetings, a file has become available at the library circulation desk that holds coupons available to those who cannot make it to a meeting. The file operates with a “take some – leave some” system so that it can be renewed between meetings by those using it. Plans for the coming year are to meet the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the Activity Room of the library. The next meeting will be January 10. The Monongahela Area Library is holding a “Snuggle Up with a Good Book” basket raffle during the winter months. For only $1 a chance, patrons can try to win a gift basket packed with items designed to make a pleasure out of leisure reading, including a Kindle. Other items in the basket include a plush throw, a variety of hot drinks, and cozy footwear. The winning ticket will be drawn at the community band concert this spring. For more information, call the library at 724-258-5409.

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Mon Valley Networking Group Present Donation Checks to Local Food Banks

(l-r) Robert Crall, membership director; Todd Sauter, vice president; Bob Mckinley, president; Dick Currie, Rostraver Food Bank; John Gulick, Monongahela Food Bank; Deb Puglia, secretary/treasurer; and Diane Bianchi, education director.

The Mon Valley Networking Group held their annual Christmas Breakfast on December 20 at the Cedarbrook Golf Course. During the breakfast, the Networking Group presented two checks in the amount of $250 each to the Rostraver and Monongahela Food Banks. PHOTO BY WAYNE E. RAY

PA Issues New Restrictions for Young Drivers According to state Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, junior driver’s license holders and learner’s permit holders should be aware of new driving restrictions and requirements that took effect on December 24. Learner’s permit holders: Increased behind-the-wheel training for those 18 and under from 50 to 65 hours. Ten of the added hours must consist of nighttime driving. Five of the added hours must be driven in poor weather conditions. Learner’s permit holders who have taken their road driving skills test before December 24 will only have to complete the 50 hours of supervised training requirement. Junior License holders: A junior driver, for the first six months, is not permitted to have more than one passenger under 18 who is not an immediate family member in the vehicle unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If the junior driver has not been convicted of a driving violation or fully responsible for a reportable crash after six months, a junior license holder may have up to three passengers under 18 who are not immediate family in the vehicle without a parent or legal guardian present. Violation is considered a summary offense and carries a fine of $25. Immediate family member s are defined as a brother, sister, stepbrother, or stepsister of the junior driver and adopted or foster children living in the same household as the junior driver. A law enforcement officer may stop a vehicle and cite a junior driver license holder and occupants under 18 in a vehicle if they are not wearing seat belts, or if children under 8 are not securely fastened in a child restraint system; seat belt violations become a primary offense for junior drivers and carry a fine of $75. The new law does not change the prohibition on drivers under 18 from being on the road from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., nor the minimum six-month requirement for individuals to hold a learner’s permit.

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LOCAL NEWS

Rostraver Kids Build Their Interest in the Construction Industry Thirty-eight aspiring youth builders competed in the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Pittsburgh Chapter’s Block Kids competition at the Carpenter’s Training Center. Each child in grade 1 through grade 6 was given an hour to build an object related to the construction industry. They used micro blocks and three of the following additional construction materials including a rock, piece of string, aluminum foil and poster board. The children presented their design concepts and final products to volunteer judges Katrina and Brendan Rood from Rostraver Twp. take a break from the Carpenters Union. at their building workstations. The first place overall winner was Nicholas Nazak, Grade 6, David E. Williams Elementary. Nicholas constructed an underground construction site, including a crane. The second place award recipient was Matthew Braunstein, Grade 2, Roosevelt Elementary. Matthew built a house, complete with room partitions, a porch, a chair and a walkway. Third place was given to Madeline Moore, Grade 2, Bon Meade Elementary. Madeline presented a hospital construction site, including a port a potty, bulldozer, jack hammer and trucks. Interested competitors from the Mon Valley area included a sister and brother combination, Katrina and Brendan Rood, from Rostraver Township. Winners of the Pittsburgh area competition will move on to a regional competition, where they will compete with winners of NAWIC Region 1 chapters based in New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC and Connecticut. The regional winner will be announced in April 2012 and advance to a national competition. Sponsors and supporters included Pittsburgh Builders Exchange, Master Builders Association, Blumling & Gusky LLP, Alpern Rosenthal, and the Carpenters Union.

‘Marcellus Shale: Small Business Impacts and Expectations’ Presented in Charleroi ‘Marcellus Shale: Small Business Impacts & Expectations’ will be presented by the Small Business Administration, the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Borough of Charleroi, and the Rostraver Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, January 25 from 8:15 to 10:00 a.m. at the Charleroi Borough Building, Fallowfield Ave. and 4th St. Charleroi. Learn how your business or community can prepare to take advantage of this opportunity. SBA District Director Carl Knoblock will review the Williamsport, PA story and share his knowledge of Marcellus topic as it relates to business growth and development. A panel discussion will be held including representatives who will give a brief overview of what resources are available to assist you. Reservations needed, space is limited. Email donn@charleroiboro.org or call 724-483-6011.

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NEWS

FROM THE GREATER MONESSEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Renovations Continues on Former Milsom/Endicott Johnson Building As 2012 begins, the annual Greater Monessen Historical Society fund drive and membership renewal campaign is in full swing. Volunteer donations provide the means to operate the Heritage Museum, pay for preservation of local history and ethnic heritage, and pay for maintenance to the buildings. In 2011, renovations began on the century-old former Milsom / Endicott Johnson building that had been donated to the society for use as an annex. Thanks to volunteer labor, the second floor apartment area was completely gutted and the exterior repainted. With support from community-minded individuals and friends, replacement windows were purchased. There are still several opportunities to donate a replacement window at a cost of $500 in honor of or in memory of a loved one. Call the Heritage Museum at 724-684-8460 for further information. In the future, incoming donations earmarked for the building fund will allow the GMHS to renovate the first floor area of the Milsom Building for showcasing a permanent Monessen exhibit. Unfortunately, before this takes place, a new heating and cooling unit must be installed, along with complete plumbing and electrical system work. The interior wall will have to be opened to allow easy access between the current Heritage Museum and the new annex. Other plans include the installation of an early twentieth century look “tin” ceiling and light fixtures. A donated historic fireplace is also to be installed. The speed of renovations will depend on the generosity of the donations. In addition, everyday costs are also rising and must be covered. Treasurer Vito Beneccio has been working to provide a balanced budget for the new year.

Society Reminds Members that Renewals Are Due At the same time, membership renewals for calendar year 2012 are due. GMHS membership runs from January to December and includes four quarterly eight-page newsletters. Membership dues are $15 for an individual, $20 for a family, and $50 for a business. Encourage friends, neighbors and family to join the Greater Monessen Historical Society. Consider giving a gift membership to someone.

GMHS Partners with Cal U for Oral History Project Involving Veterans The Greater Monessen Historical Society has partnered with California University of Pennsylvania’s Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Department to conduct filmed oral history interviews with local veterans. A professional interviewer and film crew will film two interviews per week in the second floor library area of the Monessen Heritage Museum. Interview questions will be constructed based on pre-filed questionnaires answered by the veterans. After editing, a copy of the completed DVD will be placed at the Heritage Museum, Louis L. Manderino Library on the campus of CAL U and at the United States Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. If interested, please contact the Heritage Museum at 724-684-8460 to schedule an interview. Volunteer recruiter Floyd Kizzie and GMHS Vice President Gary Strelick are facilitating the program at the local level.

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LOCAL NEWS

Generations Together: Local Teacher Unites Ringgold Students and Elderly

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Monessen VFD #2 Hilltop Hosts Christmas Party and Awards Banquet

(l-r) Tom Ashbaugh, Volunteer of the Year; Jamie Sethman, Fire Fighter of the Year; Jay Sethman, recipient of the Chief's Award; Chuck Spotts, recipient of the 40 Years of Service Award; Vern Campbell, Rookie of the Year; and Dorreen Karnes, recipient of the Special Appreciation Award. At the December 14, 2011 visit to Havencrest Nursing Center, Ringgold High School students and residents talked and laughed while making Christmas ornaments and signing Christmas cards. Pictures left to right are: Kathy Cochran (resident in elf hat), Dorothy Glasser (resident), Brittany Parnell, Erik DiNardo, Lindsey Bosanac (students), Havencrest Activities Director Kelly Kibler (standing), Barb Trumpie, Carolyn Wallace (residents), Linda Fetchen (Ringgold High School teacher and Generations Together sponsor), Kara Dunmire, and Angela Selby (students).

By Miranda Startare

What began as a six-week program in the 1980s has grown into monthly visits to Havencrest Nursing Center that have lasted for 25 years. That is the story behind a Ringgold High School program, “Generations Together,” created by Ringgold High School teacher, Linda Fetchen. On the second Wednesday of every month, Mrs. Fetchen takes 5-6 students to Havencrest Nursing Center in Carroll Township to socialize with the residents. The visits are not to entertain residents but to engage with them on a personal level. Over Havencrest resident, Dorothy smiling at her birthday the years, two of Mrs. Fetchen’s family members Glasser, party on December 16, 2011. Mrs. have been residents at Havencrest, and she wit- Glasser turned 105-years-old. She nessed the energy and excitement these visits gave was born at her home on Linden Avenue in Monessen in 1906. the residents. During these visits, the students have engaged in various activities with the residents, including: reading newspapers to blind residents, coloring pictures, painting nails, playing cards (poker and euchre, especially), singing karaoke, playing Bingo, wrapping presents, making crafts, etc. During a recent visit, students helped the residents make ornaments and sign Christmas cards. In addition to the monthly visits, students go to Havencrest for other occasions, such as the residents’ Christmas party. The experience has been rewarding for both the students and the residents, who especially love the annual Spring Prom when students come to Havencrest dressed in their formal attire and dance for the residents. According to Mrs. Fetchen, every year there seems to be one special patient who especially bonds with the students. This year, Dorothy Glasser is that special resident. The students love hearing about her life when she was their age. Incidentally, Dorothy celebrated her 105th birthday on December 16, 2011. Mrs. Fetchen also considers the visits to be career exploration for the students because of the numerous professionals they meet there. “Everyone working there has made our students feel welcome and valued.” It seems that everyone benefits when generations are brought together.

The Monessen #2 Hilltop VFD Christmas Party and Awards Banquet were held on December 10 at the Monessen Elks. Six awards were presented, and company shirts were also presented to the membership. The six award recipients included Tom Ashbaugh, Volunteer of the Year; Jamie Sethman, Fire Fighter of the Year; Jay Sethman, recipient of the Chief's Award; Chuck Spotts, recipient of the 40 Years of Service Award; Vern Campbell, Rookie of the Year; and Dorreen Karnes, recipient of the Special Appreciation Award. Jackie Wiggins, one of the department's junior fire fighters, received a t-shirt.

Tim Wiggins, captain and recording secretary of the fire department, and daughter Jackie Wiggins, one the department's junior fire fighters, posing as she receives her department shirt.

Sales of Glenn Tunney's Book Raise $1,317 for Brownsville Public Library Sales of Glenn Tunney’s latest book, Looking Back: The Best of Glenn Tunney – Volume Two, have so far raised $1,317 to benefit the Brownsville Free Public Library. A portion of the book’s sales proceeds has been donated by Tunney, the longtime author and columnist from Grindstone, and by purchasers of the book. Books may be purchased at the Brownsville Free Public Library or the Fayette Chamber of Commerce. To order for delivery by mail, call 724-562Taking part in a traditional check 8886 or glenntunney@verizon.net. For presentation at a meeting of the library more information about the book, see board are:(l-r) William Johnson, board https://sites.google.com/site/lookingpresident;Tina Haluska, newly appointed backbooks. Volume One, published last librarian, and Glenn Tunney. year, is also available for sale by calling 724-562-8886 or by visiting the Flatiron Building Heritage Center in Brownsville.

LOCAL NEWS

POSITION AVAILABLE AT MONESSEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

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Santa Stops By Smithton’s Light-up Night Celebration

The Monessen Public Library is seeking a Children’s/Young Adult Services Librarian to fill a 25-30 hour per week position. The position is part-time with the strong potential for full-time in the near future. Applicants should be energetic, enthusiastic and willing to work some evenings and Saturdays. Starting salary is $12 per hour. Duties include children and teen programming, collection development, community outreach, public relations and some reference desk hours. MLS preferred, but not required. Previous children’s library experience is preferred, but not required. All applicants must meet Act 33/34/73 requirements (Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse History Clearance and Fingerprint Check). For a complete job description please call 724-684-4750 and ask for Dave. Please send cover letter, resume, and three letters of reference to: Monessen Public Library, 326 Donner Avenue, Monessen, PA 15062. Attn: Dave Zilka.

Getting ready to hand out hot chocolate and cookies to celebration gatherers are (l to r) Elise Barthels, Diane Balko, and Suzanne Smail.

JK TENER LIBRARY, CHARLEROI NEWS JK Tener Library, Charleroi is located at 638 Fallowfield Ave. For more information, call 724-483-8282, email charlibrary@comcast.net or visit www.charleroilibrary.org. Hours of operation are Monday – Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m., and on Sunday the library is closed.

Happenings • Book Club – third Thursday of every month at 5:45. The Book Club starts another year on January 12 Our first selection of 2012 is Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson. • Friends of the Tener will meet January 10 at 5:10. Please consider joining this incredible group. During the lean times, they help keep us open. • Happy New Year! Did you know January is National Book Month? Come in January 14 at 2:00 p.m. and listen to a few great books and do a craft to go along. All children welcome.

Notices • Downloadable books are expected to be ready to download this month. We will be offering training soon. • Tax forms will be available January 2 in the front lobby. All forms may not be available yet, so please be patient. • During bad weather, please call before coming down. We may need to close. • Did your New Year’s resolution include getting in shape? We have a large selection of dieting books, exercise DVDs, books on CD, and our selection will include downloadable audio books as well. • Don’t have the book you are dying to read on our shelves? Let us know - we can get it for you.

Please Help • Are you a plumber or handyman that could donate some time? We are still in desperate need or your services and remember, they are tax-deductible. • Do you have an idea for a great fundraiser? Let us know. We are looking for ideas!

Santa and Mrs Claus ended the parade. Santa then met with children at Smithton Volunteer Fire Department.

Smithton held its Annual Light-up Night Celebration on December December 3rd. There was a parade followed by singing, cookies and hot chocolate, and fireworks. Santa even made a special appearance. PHOTOS BY CRISTI CAUGHMAN

INTERESTED IN SELLING YOUR HOME CALL 724-554-3514

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Monessen Library Holds Book Sale in Temporary Location Need a good book to read this winter? The annual Monessen Public Library Autumn Book Sale was unable to be held in 2011, due to the ongoing reconstruction of the fifty-plus year old facility. The twice-a-year book sales, along with the ongoing Friends of the Library Book Nook sales, help fund ongoing library programs. For those who miss the regular large books sales, the library staff have set up several long tables that are overflowing with literary gently used goodies. They include hardbacks, paperbacks, children’s books, magazines, audio and video tapes, LP’s, kits, etc. Come and see what is available. Hurry while the selection is good and purchase enough to get through the cold wintry season. The tables are located in the long entrance hall at the Library’s temporary location on the upper floor of Eastgate 11. Parking is available next to the lower level. Due to severe space limitations at the temporary facility, Board President Madeline Dudas regrets that the Library is unable to accept large donations of books at this time for the sale.

Bentleyville Public Library News The Bentleyville Public Library is collecting costume jewelry to be used in a fundraiser. Sort through your old items and donate unwanted jewelry to the library. The Bentleyville Public Library will be closed Monday January 16 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The Board of Trustees of the Bentleyville Public Library will meet at the library on Wednesday, January 4 at 7:00 p.m. Library issues will be discussed and the public is encouraged to attend. Friends of the Bentleyville Public Library will meet at the library on Monday, January 30 at 6:30 p.m. Fundraising plans will be discussed and new members are invited. The Bentleyville Public Library will be raffling a Steelers basket with assorted Steelers items. Some items to be included will be an officially licensed Big Ben jersey, a food voucher for an area restaurant, Steelers food items, and other themed items as well. Purchase tickets for a chance to win a Valentine’s Day getaway basket at the Bentleyville Public Library. All proceeds benefit the Bentleyville Public Library. Ticket donation is $2.00. The Bentleyville Public Library follows the Bentworth School System for snow closings. For more information, contact the library at 724-239-5122.

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New JET Program Starts New Year With Career Opportunities and Free Training for Mon Valley Residents Train, earn, and provide with the Private Industry Council Jobs, Education, and Training (JET) Program. The JET programs offers a comprehensive approach for Mon Valley residents to find meaningful career paths in the high-growth industries of manufacturing, transportation, construction, retrofit, renewable electric power, and energy efficiency and assessment. Job-placement services, however, are not limited to these industries. Area residents admitted into the program can benefit from classroom and on-the-job training as well as adult basic and literacy education; career counseling and assessment services; job-search services; and financial literacy classes. Private Industry Council’s Education and Technology Institute (ETI) will run a series of week-long, Green energy trainings at their new location in Monessen. Trainings will include topics within the solar, wind, and geothermal career fields. PIC believes that exposing area residents to the energy fields will provide them with the foundation they need to begin exploring career opportunities in the energy industry. A retrofit training will be the first training offered through the JET Program and is scheduled to start in January of 2012. The term retrofitting refers to the act of making improvements to an existing structure which

provides an increase in the overall energy-efficiency of a building or home. Participants will learn building retrofitting principles through a combination of classroom and hands-on training. Enrollment for the retrofit training is currently underway and those interested in obtaining certification through the JET Program are encouraged to contact the Private Industry Council at the number below. In addition to career exploration and training, financial literacy will be a major focus of the program. Topics such as banking, creating a budget, and managing debt will be covered. The program is designed to promote self-sufficiency not only through attaining a higher income, but also by providing the tools needed to become financially stable. Mon Valley residents who are interested in obtaining additional information on the JET Program are encouraged to call 724-684-9000 ext. 4408. or visit the new Private Industry Council office located in the Monessen Municipal Complex, 1 Wendell Ramey Lane , Suite 340. Office hours are 8:00-4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. Green employers who are interested in partnering with the JET Program can contact Doug McDonough at 724437-2590. Employers, be sure to inquire about on-the-job training funds, training reimbursement, and employee screening services.

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Monongahela Columbiettes Host Christmas Party Consider Joining this Group for Catholic Women

The Columbiettes enjoyed their annual Christmas party. Present were (seated) Donna Vuono, Freda Rutherford, Ruth Blair, Julie Tarabrella, Peggy Lines, (standing) Linda Sarver, Irene Dzimiera, Eileen Donovan, Gloria Walsh, Diana Guarinoni, Kathie Ballein, Barb Polaski, Sandy Geary, Monica Brooks, Marge Hood, Cora Apessos, Barb Franz, and Mary Ann Hillman.

On Tuesday, December 13, 18 members of the Monongahela Columbiettes Auxiliary met for their annual Christmas party. This year, the party was held at Salatino’s River House Café in Charleroi. Auxiliary President Barb Polaski greeted all members, and the group enjoyed a delicious dinner followed by party games and a gift exchange. The Columbiettes are a Catholic women’s organization affiliated with the Knights of Columbus. The Monongahela Columbiettes, established in March of 2003, was the first auxiliary in western Pennsylvania. The Columbiettes are a growing organization focused on using the talents and creativity of Catholic women to foster charitable, fraternal, and social purposes. The Columbiettes are a special group of women who display to all people the meaning of Catholicism and sisterhood through acts of charity, hope, faith, and joy. Their theme, “Walk the Path of the Columbiette rainbow, and spread its glow to areas not yet reached,” exemplifies these characteristics in its sisterhood. The group is interested in and actively pursuing expansion. If you enjoy the challenges and satisfaction of making a difference, and if you want to do more for the church family and community, consider joining the Columbiettes. Membership is open to practicing Catholic women 17 years of age and older. For more information, please call President Barb Polaski at 724-2587167 or Recruitment Chairperson Eileen Donovan at 724-348-6964.

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Santa Makes Holiday Visit to Bentleyville Santa arrived in a beautiful horse-drawn wagon at Richardson Park in Bentleyville on the evening of November 26 at 6 p.m. Richardson Park was beautifully decorated and long line of children anxiously to visit with Santa. Each child left Santa with a toy, gingerbread cookie, treat bag, and a coupon for a hot dog and drink. Free horse drawn wagon rides through Richardson Park and camp fires to warm and relax with family and friends made for enjoyable event for all. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS

Santa finally arrives to the delight of the long line of children waiting to see him.

Recreation Board member Judy Weinzen was kept busy serving hot dogs and other concessions to waiting hands.

Wyatt Markovich, Kenzie Buttermore, Mercedes Manning, and Jasmine Manning had a great time visiting with Santa.

Bradley, Brendon, and Bryan Taylor were all smiles while visiting with Santa.

A long line formed early as children waited anxiously to visit with Santa.

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LOCAL NEWS

Monongahela Valley Hospital Chapel to House Portrait of the Late Ralphie Guzzo In the late 1990s, Ralphie Joseph Guzzo Jr., then a toddler, lived in Monongahela and was mesmerized by the Divine Mercy of Jesus Christ. From the time he was 14 months of age, the child would awaken and watch/participate in the 8 a.m. televised mass on EWTN with his grandmothThe Most Reverend Father William Terza, Pastor of St. er. The young boy anticipated Damien of Molokai Parish (formerly St. Anthony Parish), his time with Jesus. As the blesses the portrait of the late Ralphie Guzzo, The Divine priest would raise his hands Mercy, with his parents, Ralph and Tracy Guzzo, MVH Vice to consecrate the host, President and Chief Nursing Officer Mary Lou Murt, and CCU Nurse Manager Lisa Hruby. Ralphie would raise his hands, too. Throughout the liturgy, the child would remain poised donation of his organs. The following as if he were in the real presence of God. month, a memorial consisting of a statEvery day, Ralphie knew instinctively ue of St. Joseph holding the Child Jesus at 3 p.m. that it was time to pray the and a red rose bush were placed near Divine Mercy Chaplet. He would tap on the side entrance to St. Anthony Parish the television until someone would turn in Monongahela (which merged with it on for him. As the priest would speak Transfiguration Parish in Monongahela the opening prayer, Ralphie seemed to in 2011 to become St. Damien of be captivated by the prayers and images Molokai Parish). Some people believe that more than before him. Nothing would distract him while they were praying the Chaplet. A nine years after his death, Ralphie sent close family friend took a picture of him a sign of hope to the Monongahela praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet and community. On November 2, 2007, a sent the images to Mother Angelica at large red rose appeared on the dormant EWTN. She spoke of little Ralphie on rose bush that was planted outside of St. the air and encouraged the viewers to Anthony Parish. Then on November consider their own faith in the same 23, 2007, despite freezing temperatures and an early morning snowfall, a beauchildlike manner. On May 4, 1998, Ralphie began to tiful red rose in full bloom with snow choke on a pretzel. An untimely series upon its petals bloomed on that bush. So, some say that the Mon Valley has of events prevented the ambulance from reaching him in a timely manner. He its own little angel in heaven watching was taken to Monongahela Valley over it. This week, a portrait of Ralphie, Hospital and transported to Children’s created by Pittsburgh Artist Donella Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, where Chiocca and called The Divine Mercy, he was comatose for four days. During began keeping watch in the this time, a family friend presented him Monongahela Valley Hospital’s chapel. with a Padre Pio prayer card and relic. A His parents, Ralph and Tracy Guzzo, prayer vigil asking for Padre Pio’s inter- unveiled the portrait on December 13, cession continued on numerous prayer which was blessed by the Most chains around the world. Family, Reverend Father William Terza, Pastor friends, and the local parish priest of St. Damien of Molokai Parish. “We spoke about how this child radiated an are honored that Monongahela Valley Hospital was chosen to receive such a inner glow. Ralphie passed away May 7, 1998. His meaningful gift,” said Mary Lou Murt, short life on earth brought five other vice president and chief nursing officer people the gift of new life through the at MVH, upon accepting the portrait.

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Monongahela Valley Hospitalâ€™s commitment to providing area children with access to quality health care recently received another boost from Howard Hanna Simon Real Estate Services in Belle Vernon. Through its fundraising efforts, Howard Hanna Simon donated $7,700 for the MVH Childrenâ€™s Charity Care Fund at its recent annual holiday fund-raising event. More than 200 community members attended the 15th Annual Chow-Chow Luncheon at the Club House Grille at Cedar Brook Golf Course.

Speers Civic Club Finalizes Pizza Party Plans

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Thomas J. Cullen, Monongahela Valley Hospital senior vice president, received a $7,700 donation from Cindy Walman, Howard Hanna; Kristen Moffett and Debby Puglia, Howard Hanna event co-chairs; and Tom Simon, broker/owner of Howard Hanna Simon Real Estate Services.

The Speers Civic Club held its monthly meeting on November 28, 2011. Vice President Judy Curl welcomed guest speaker, Karen Pritts. Karen works at the MVH Center for Diabetes. She is a registered dietician and a certified diabetes educator. She discussed nutrition, food labels, various fitness programs, and portion control. She also discussed diabetes; family history, diet, warning signs, and its treatment. There was also a very informative Q & A with the group. Curl then opened the meeting with the Pledge and the Club Collect. During the business session, Treasurer Cara Lion read the treasury report and re-capped the 2011-2102 budgets. Reports were also heard from Sunshine Committee Eleanor Farner, Corresponding Secretary Mishelle McKita, and Norma Stack gave the fundraising report. Plans finalizing the Childrenâ€™s Pizza Party with Santa on December 10th were completed. Under new business, Curl welcomed new members Kim Boulanger and Linda Gray. The kitty was won by Linda Gray, who in turn, donated her winnings to the Childrenâ€™s Pizza Party with Santa fund. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. and the social committee served food and refreshments.

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Saturday Night Live at the Mon Valley YMCA a Popular Event

Vernon Walters and son Vernon Walters Jr. enjoy pizza and snacks together.

Aiden Ramsdell age 4 of Charleroi was first in line with his list for a picture with Santa.

Saturday Night Live was recently held at the Mon Valley YMCA on December 10. Santa visited and the Girl Scouts were here helping our visitors make crafts. Everyone enjoyed free pizza, snacks and drinks as well as having fun in our gym, youth & teen center, and indoor swimming pool. Don't forget that every second Saturday from November – May, the Mon Valley YMCA holds a Saturday Night Live event! Our next event is scheduled for January 14, and Kookie Bird from the Valley Skating Center in Donora will be here visiting and passing out special passes for all who attend. Free for all YMCA members and only $5.00 for guests. Call our youth and teen directo, Adorée Deluca-Johnson, for more information at 724-483-8077 ext. 206.

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Monongahela Area Library Needs Your Help: A Message From the Board of Trustees The Monongahela Area Library at 813 Main Street in Monongahela is in desperate need of your help in raising funds. What if the lights went off and the doors were locked? The community needs the library. Studies show that the presence of a library drastically increases a community’s economic vitality and quality of life. Learning is a lifelong experience in which the library plays an integral role. The library places a wealth of information at the fingertips of young students and learners of all ages. Monongahela Area Library wants to remain current as well as continually improve its services. Its computer capabilities, for both patrons and staff, are in need of updating. The library is planning to offer one-card library access in conjunction with others in the county system and wants to provide downloadable books for Kindle and other e-readers. Your support is paramount in bringing these plans to fruition. The Monongahela Area Library is sorely lacking in governmental support. Some communities receive substantial support through their school districts; yet this library receives NONE, – even though the service area encompasses six municipalities in the Ringgold School District. None of the communities served donate a portion of their tax revenues to the library. Please support our ongoing fund drive generously and encourage the school district and local governments to support our library. Donations can be mailed to Monongahela Area Library, 813 Main Street, Monongahela, PA 15063.

Monongahela Area Library Says Sheetz Coupon Books are Back!

Mon Valley YMCA Hosts Youth and Teen Movie Sleepover Night There will be a Batman Movie Sleepover at the Mon Valley YMCA for ages 917 on Friday, January 13 from 8:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. Saturday, January 14. All Batman movies will be shown (no cartoons). Pizza, popcorn, snacks, drinks and doughnuts in the morning will be served. Also, a late-night dodgeball game or two will be played. Sign up as soon as possible because we can only take 45 kids, and the cost for pre-registering before January 11 is $15.00 for Y members and $20.00 for non-members. After January 11, the cost will go up to $20.00 for Y members and $25.00 for non-members. A permission slip needs to be filled out for anyone 9-12 years of age. For more information call, our youth & teen director, Adorée Deluca-Johnson, at 724-483-8077 ext. 206.

Monongahela Area Library’s Sheetz Coupon Book fundraiser is back – the books are back in stock. Pick one of these books up at the library. The $10 book contains coupons for the following: Free M•T•O® item • Free Sheetz Donut, Buy One Get One Free M•T•go!® Sandwich or Parfait Free M•T•O® Breakfast Sandwich • Free Bag of Fryz Free Hot Dog (2 coupons) • Free Specialty Coffee Buy One Get One Free Nutz • Buy One Get One Free Nova Blue® Bottled Water These equal a $25 value for $10, and and $4 of that will benefit your library. They are good at all the Sheetz locations, not just the Sheetz in Monongahela. Stop by the library Monday – Thursday 11 – 7; Friday 11 – 5; or Saturday 10 – 5. We sell Smencils (scented pencils) for the youngsters, too!

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Mon Valley Cloggers Offer Free Beginner Clog Dance Lessons 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 690 shows in southwestern Pennsylvania since organization in 1992. The free lessons allow the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Every Monday in January (6:30 to 8 p.m.) will be free. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. Because 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, the cost will be only $10 each. For more information, or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-3846442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

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Santa Arrives in Charleroi

Two of the Mon Valley Super Stars, Brittany Haywood (left) and Breanne Patrick, pose with Santa before starting the parade.

Lock #4 VFC Hosts Breakfast with Santa On Saturday, December 10, the Lock #4 VFC sponsored the annual breakfast with Santa event. The breakfast included scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage, homemade pancakes, and a drink. All of the food used was donated by various supermarkets, and food outlets. Santa Claus was in attendance, collecting Christmas wish lists, posing for photos and passing out treats, while the firemen and volunteers cooked the breakfast. After breakfast, the children watched Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Santa and his elves take a break from greeting children at the enjoyed the Christmas Lock#4 VFC Breakfast with Santa to pose for the camera. music supplied by D.J. Pat. 100% of all the proceeds will benefit the Lock #4 Volunteer Fire Company's Christmas Eve gift distribution to the children of North Charleroi. The Christmas Eve gift distribution is one of the longest standing traditions of the Lock #4 fire company, going on 70-plus years. The firemen will venture out again this Christmas Eve and pass out gifts along the way. This year's breakfast with Santa was a huge success, breaking the old attendance record of nearly 200 people. Lock #4VFC would like to thank all the business for their donations and the volunteers who made this event another success.

US Army personnel (left to right): National Guard Sgt. Matthew Pringle; active duty Army Sgt. Dave Zuzak, Jr.; VFW Commander and Army Reserves Captain Dave Zuzak

Santa poses with two H&R Block representatives.

Leading the Santa Parade in Charleroi were marchers and Super Star baton twirlers. The American Legion Honor Guard and Charleroi police led Santa to the Market House, where children enjoyed a visit with Santa, face painting and seveal treats. PHOTOS CREDIT: WAYNE E. RAY

The American Legion Post 22 Honor Guard

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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Monessen Hosts Christmas Celebration

NEWS FROM THE CHARLEROI AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT 22 The Charleroi American Legion Auxiliary Unit 22 met November 21st with President McBurnie opening the meeting with 17 members present. Unit 22 business covered discussion regarding the 50 wrapped gifts of sweat suits for the Christmas party on December 10th for patients at Southwestern VA Center at Highland Drive in Pittsburgh. Thanks were extended to our Legion family of SAL Squadron 22 and Legion Post 22 for participating with us in this Christmas project for veteran patients and for attending our ALA installation dinner in September. Nine members of ALA Unit 22 rode in Donora's Veterans’ Day Parade in a deuce and half and received a $50 award from the Donora Veterans Council. We distributed two bushels of candy to parade spectators who did not let the freezing cold keep them from showing the veterans they were not forgotten. National raised ALA dues for the following year, and our Unit 22 annual dues will go from $15 to $20 as a result. The December ALA Christmas party was cancelled and discussion will continue at the January meeting for future holiday parties. Our essays and scholarship material are already at our schools. The Auxiliary is catering the 25th District Installation on December 11th at our post home in Charleroi. Auxiliary member Elaine McGaughney announced she is collecting toys for "Toys for Tots" for the Leathernecks and encouraged everyone to place gifts [no need to be wrapped or new] in the box at Maple Creek Distributors in Charleroi. ALA Unit 22 member Sally Lundy is volunteering at Center in the Woods Senior Center and reaching out to all seniors. She will be teaching various games to seniors to help fill their empty hours with joy and entertainment. The ALA Unit 22 supplied over 100 treat bags to the children at the Charleroi Market House on December 3rd when Santa was ushered in by Charleroi American Legion Honor Guard. Three uniformed servicemen from Charleroi [VFW Commander and Army Reserves Captain Dave Zuzak, active duty Army Sgt. Dave Zuzak, Jr., National Guard Sgt. Matthew Pringle] helped the children to sign their Christmas cards for patients at Pittsburgh's VA Hospitals and over 78 cards were collected for the Pittsburgh VA hospitals. The meeting closed with the usual ceremony and refreshments. Gale Kawasny was the monthly 50/50 winner and the next meeting will be January 23 at 7 p.m.

Tap into the power of the Messenger. Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

Mr. and Mrs. Claus Arrive

Santa listens to the kids’ Christmas wishes.

The Monessen Historical Society Museum is a beehive of activity waiting for Santa to arrive.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrive in Monessen on the fire department’s biggest truck.

The Monessen police lead off the parade.

By Paul Chasko

The Christmas Celebration in Monessen kicked off with a parade and ended with the Monessen Historical Society Museum as the focal point with a special guest to meet and greet the kids. The Monessen High School band livens Mr. and Mrs. Santa up the streets with some Christmas Music. Claus were the guests of honor at the Monessen Christmas Celebration last month. They arrived in town with the fanfare of a Christmas parade perched on top of Monessen’s biggest fire truck – no snow for the sleigh. The parade was loaded with carolers accompanied by the Monessen High school band and quite a few fire trucks – all with sirens blaring. After the parade, Santa found a special chair awaiting him in the Monessen Historical Society Museum where a line of kids were already forming with their parents to let Santa know what they wanted for Christmas. The visitors also enjoyed cookies and soft drinks courtesy of the folks at the museum. Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Go to our website at www.monvalleymessenger.com for more photos of this event

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New Eagle Post Office at Risk of Closing Keystone Collections Thanks Bentleyville for Office Space By Alice Harris

The December meeting opened with guest Debbie Babirad, representing Keystone Collections, expressing appreciation to Council for granting office space in the Municipal Complex stating the location is perfect for public access.. Keystone will move in during January 2012. At that time their Monongahela location will be closed, also. Guest Ken Carlisle questioned the Act 32 EIN tax. It was explained that this tax is no different thank it has been, just the way it will be collected has changed. Employers will now be required to withhold 1% their employee paychecks to cover the tax. As he has no employees, he will only have to be concerned with his own payment. Newly elected District Attorney Gene Vittone expressed gratitude to those who voted for him. He proceeded to ask for the drainage to be fixed at Carmel Park so that grant money already awarded can be used to improve the field. It was decided to begin digging along the road and work to the field to try to find where the drains are clogged. An estimate from the contractor interested to do the excavation is needed to determine costs before granting approval. In old business: The adoption of holding tank ordinance # 545 was approved. The adoption of the 2012 budget and tax rate ordinances was approved, as well as the EIT and LST ordinances were approved, also. In new business: The workers comp proposal was approved. $20,000 was approved to transfer (borrow) from capital improvement (if needed) to provide funds in the

interim until tax revenues deposit in April. Approval was given to advertise the 2012 re-organizational meeting and other meetings for 2012. A motion to keep the monthly Council meeting the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm was approved with the first 2012 meeting scheduled for January 3rd. A motion to bond the Tax Collector was approved. Changing the speed on Pittsburgh Road from 40 mph to 25 mph requires State approval. A discussion of who is in charge of the police resulted in the statement that the mayor is usually, but may not be. Solicitor Makel will look into so this issue is clarified prior to the upcoming Police contract renewal. The sister of Marvin Taylor wants to demolish the property and is looking for the most reasonable way to do it. The refurbished Gosai building scheduled to be Big Jim’s Plaza has been sold to Michaels Corporation. Appreciation was extended to the Recreation Board for all their hard work to make Santa’s arrival on November 26 at Richardson Park a successful and enjoyable event for all. In other news: A new door and gutters on the Library requires an estimate of costs for approval. The purchase of a street sweeper from Jefferson Township at the cost of $2500 was approved. A total of $67.51 was collected from parking meters. The $300-$400 electrical cost of the Borough’s Christmas lights has been paid by a private party. It was approved that the Borough now assume the costs of these lights.

Visit us online at www.monvalleymessenger.com

By Ken Askew

Rumor has it that the New Eagle Post Office is closing on March 31, 2012, because the owner of the building in which it is housed has failed to negotiate a mutually acceptable renewal lease with the U. S. Postal Service. Consequently, the landlord (Larry Kumph) attended the December 6, 2011 meeting of the New Eagle Council to publicly refute the rumor. Kumph claims he is fighting the closure, as evidenced by the letters he sent to Washington County Commissioner Diana Irey, U. S. Congressman Mark Critz, and U. S. Senator Patrick Toomey. He has also obtained permission from the New Eagle Volunteer Fire Company to use their Social Hall on Chess Street for some type of meeting to rally citizen support to fight the closure. The New Eagle Post Office has been located in his building on Main Street for 30 years, under various lease agreements with the Postal Service. Kumpf disclosed that during the last 15 years of the lease, the annual fee ranged from $10K to $28K. This year’s amount is $19K, but the Postal Service is offering only $15K for next year. Over the last 15 years, Kumpf has conceded a total of $90K in negotiations to keep the facility open. Kumph argued that since the New

Eagle Post Office is situated on the ground floor, many handicapped and elderly residents in nearby municipalities do business at his site, since they cannot climb the steps to the second floor of the Monongahela Post Office. Therefore, if either facility must be closed, it should be the Monongahela Post Office. In other business: Resolution #4, Destruction of Public Records, was passed, to allow the disposition of over a dozen classifications of documents created from 1993 to 2006. A 1st reading of the 2012 budget was conducted, maintaining the millage at last year’s rate (34.48 mills). A 1st reading of a new ordinance was recited, to require that whenever snowfall exceeds 6”, vehicles parked on Main Street--from its’ intersection with Chess Street to the Monongahela border--must be moved, to facilitate straight-line, curb-to-curb snow plowing. Failure to comply may result in fines from $100 to $1K per day, plus legal costs and fees for towing and storage. Furthermore, snow cannot be deposited onto Main Street from adjacent areas. The deadline for submitting advertisements or historical photos for the Centennial history book has been extended to January 31, 2012.

The Mon Valley Messenger is a proud member of the following organizations:

Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Balanced Budget for Donora in 2012 By Miranda Startare

At the regular Donora Council Meeting on December 8, 2011, the proposed 2012 budget was approved with no tax increase. A special meeting will be held on December 28, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. to officially adopt the budget. Councilwoman Marie Trozzo thanked everyone involved in helping to create this balanced budget, including Borough Administrator/ Treasurer/ Secretary Dennis Fisher, members of Council, employees, and department heads who were “frugal” this year. We should all be “grateful for that,” according to Mrs. Trozzo. In keeping with the good financial news, Council announced there will be no increase in garbage fees this year. Residents are instructed to call the

Borough Offices if they do not receive their bill by January. In other business: Donora Resident Terry Perrotta mentioned last month’s resident concerns about unfinished sidewalks in relation to the upcoming winter season. Mrs. Perrotta noted that she and her neighbors won’t be able to clear snow from the dirt (which is now the sidewalk) and wanted Council to be aware of this so she and others won’t be cited for not clearing sidewalks in front of their residences. Resident Judy Gray complained about a neighbor and herself receiving a citation for a pile of debris on her property resulting from a renovation project of hers and a demolition project of her neighbor’s. Mrs. Gray noted on-going issues with many other residences, stat-

Carroll Twp. Passes 2012 Budget By Miranda Startare

Residents of Carroll Township will be pleased that the 2012 budget was passed with no tax increase. Supervisors passed the budget at the December 6, 2011 meeting. Chairman Thomas Rapp credited gambling revenues as well as fiscal responsibility within the township for the balanced budget. Rapp said, “We are fortunate to have people in the township that watch the pennies, so the dollars take care of themselves.” Also at the meeting, a proposal to adopt a gas & oil ordinance was postponed until January 2012, based on the recommendation of Solicitor Herman Bigi. Mr. Bigi explained that the pending House Bill 1950 and Senate Bill 1100, if passed, would nullify any proposed township regulatory ordinances. This legislation would restrict townships from enforcing ordinances against drilling companies. In other business, resident Maya Patch repeated her concerns about blighted properties in the township and stray animals. Chairman Rapp reminded Mrs. Patch that money is allocated for demolition of certain properties, but they must meet specific conditions to be “condemned” and demolished. Concerning the stray animals, Mrs. Patch urged residents to keep their pets in their own homes and yards, so animal control will not have to be called. The stray animals are a safety and health issue for residents. The next Regular and Reorganization Meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 2, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. Any resident wishing to address the Board must sign in at the beginning of the meeting.

REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the February issue is JANUARY 12

ing that this was only a temporary demolition pile. Councilman Donald Pavelko assured her that the Public Works Dept. responds to complaints first, and was simply doing as such. An unnamed Donora Police Officer was placed on Administrative Leave as imposed by Mayor Lignelli, pending the outcome of an investigation concerning allegations against the Officer. Donora purchased 80 folding cots in connection with the Borough of Donora’s Emergency Management Implementation Plan. These cots would be used in emergency situations, such as a power failure during a snowstorm when residents need a place to sleep and stay warm. Mayor Lignelli commented on the many compliments from residents about the Palmer Park entrance

upgrades. However, the Mayor stated that a sign had been stolen, and if anyone has information about it to call the Borough Offices at 724-379-6600. A $300 reward is still being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person(s) who robbed parking meters on Thompson, Meldon, and McKean Avenues, and the Sixth St. parking garages in Donora. Please contact the Borough Administrator at 724-3796600. All information will remain confidential. Emergency Operations Manager of Donora, Donald Pavelko, is still seeking 10-15 volunteers to receive training to form an American Red Cross Emergency Evacuation Team. Interested parties should send a letter of intent or contact the Donora Borough Offices at 724-379-6600.

After Months of Debate, Route 837 / East Main Street in Monongahela Gets Cleaned Up By Ken Askew

Surprisingly, no one asked to speak at the public forum section of the Monongahela City Council meeting on December 14, 2011. By letter, Dr. Harry Miale resigned as a representative from Monongahela to the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority; Councilman Tom Caudill will replace him. A Request for Quotations has been issued for design of a new city garage. Council voted to raise the rent of a building occupied by the Southwest PA Human Services Commission, from $750/month (an amount set in 2001) to $850/month. A Tax Exempt Hearing was held immediately prior to the Council meeting, resulting in a vote at the Council meeting to grant tax-exempt status to Comprehensive Community Services Inc., a non-profit 501(c) group, operating as a charitable organization at 618 Ohio Street. Police Chief Brian Tempest reported there has been a rash of break-ins to unlocked vehicles lately. Since the perpetrators are only interested in Global

Positioning Systems and loose change, young teens are suspected; Tempest expects to file charges against an individual this week. He strongly suggested that residents lock their vehicles. The 2012 property tax remains at 23 mills. The revised 2012 budget for Monongahela City is: $2,546,181 Income $2,544,535 Expenditures $ 1,646 Surplus The amount of the annual Community Development Block Grant has been set at $375,300. Two proposals were received for the 2012 Tax Anticipation Loan for $500K. First Niagara Bank bid 2.65% plus a $500 closing fee, but the winner was Charleroi Federal Savings Bank at 2.1%. Improvements are finally coming to fruition on East Main Street / Route 837. Trucks exiting the Monongahela Iron & Metal Company site are having their tires washed, which has reduced the amount of mud and dirt tracked onto the highway by 90%. Also, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has taken steps to alleviate the water drainage problem in this area.

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Let's Talk Real Estate by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner

THE DECISION TO MOVE OR IMPROVE? What home improvements really pay off when the time comes to sell your house? That's an important question for any homeowner who's trying to decide between moving or remodeling. The only real answer is a somewhat complicated one. That answer starts with the fact that really major improvements room additions, total replacements of kitchens and baths, etc., -- rarely pay off fully in the near term. Small and relatively inexpensive changes can pay

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off in a big way in making your home attractive to buyers if your decision is to move now. It's a simple fact, consistently confirmed across America over a very long period of time, that even the most appropriate major improvements are not likely to return their full cost if a house is sold within two or three years. Does that mean that major home improvements are always a bad idea? Absolutely not. It does mean, though, that if your present house falls seriously short of meeting your family's needs, you need to think twice and think carefully before deciding to undertake a major renovation. Viewed strictly in investment terms, major improvements rarely make as much sense as selling your present home and buying one that's carefully selected to provide you with what you want. Even if you have a special and strong attachment to the house you own now and feel certain that you could be happy in it for a long time, if only it had more bedrooms or baths, for example, there are a few basic rules that you should keep in mind. The most basic rule of all, is the one that says you should never invest in these major types of improvements in your home unless you absolutely don't care at all about eventual resale value. Never improve a house to the point where its desired sales price would be more than 20 percent higher than the most expensive of the other houses in the immediate neighborhood. The point is that if you try to raise the value of your house too high, the value of the other properties in your

neighborhood will pull it down. Here are some other rules worth remembering: • Never rearrange the interior of your house in a way that reduces the total number of bedrooms to less than three. • Never add a third bathroom to a two-bath house unless you don't care about ever recouping your investment. • Never diminish the number of garage bays. • Swimming pools, sun rooms, and finished basements rarely return what it costs to install them. If you decide to move instead of improve, it's often the smaller, relatively inexpensive improvements that turn out to be most worth doing to enhance your home's saleability. The cost of replacing a discolored toilet bowl, making sure all the windows work or getting rid of dead trees and shrubs are trivial compared with the cost of adding a bathroom, but such things can have a big and very positive impact on prospective buyers. Your CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty sales professional can help you decide which expenditures make sense and which don't, and can save you a lot of money in the process.

Finleyville 724-348-7470 Belle Vernon 724-929-2180 McMurray 724-941-8680

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Business & Merchant News Local Group Donates to Monongahela Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Center

Members of the Monessen Volunteer Fire Department #1 Auxiliary donated $758 they raised for Monongahela Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Center. Pictured are (from left) Debbie Burkhardt, chief radiation therapist; Amie Matyas, nurse manager, Inpatient Oncology; Mohsen A. Isaac, M.D., director of the Radiation Oncology Department; and, from Monessen Volunteer Fire Department #1 Auxiliary, President Linda Palmer, Secretary Karen Marinos, and Public Relations Officer Kathy Cameron.

New Eagle resident Kathy Cameron, a breast cancer survivor treated at Monongahela Valley Hospital, was so grateful for the care she received there that she created a local fundraiser and plans to continue it annually. Cameron encouraged the Monessen Volunteer Fire Department #1 and its auxiliary to host cancer awareness events in October and donate the proceeds to support MVH’s Charles L. and Rose Sweeney Melenyzer Pavilion and Regional Cancer Center. Representing the fire department and its auxiliary, Cameron and her two best friends, Auxiliary President Linda Palmer and Auxiliary Secretary Karen Marinos, presented the $758 check to MVH Radiation Oncology Department members. At the fundraising event, the auxiliary sold pink merchandise, including ribbons, fire hats, beads, cupcakes, and cookies. The winner of the half-the-take tickets donated the money back to the fundraiser.

Lois Orange Ducoeur Annual Walk Raises Funds for MVH Family members of the late Lois Orange Ducoeur and organizers of the annual breast cancer walk named in her honor presented a check for $5,230 to Monongahela Valley Hospital. Pictured are Ducoeur’s son and granddaughter of Charleroi, Thomas O. Ducoeur and Lois Ruschak, along with MVH President and CEO Louis J. Panza, Jr. and walk committee member Donna Angelo. The funds will be used for MVH’s Charles L. and Rose Sweeney Melenyzer Pavilion and Regional Cancer Center. This donation in 2011 increases the walk’s total contribution to MVH to more than $37,000.

The Inn at Lenora’s Celebrates Pleasing Patrons for Twenty Years By Kara Prentice

This past holiday season, travelers to 301 Liberty Street in the quaint town of Perryopolis were sure to find a pleasant surprise that more than met their dining and lodging needs. The reservations-only restaurant at the Inn at Lenora’s is a Victorian-style house built in 1905. Custom crafted furniture and trim work are on display for visitors. Staff personnel serve high quality food with efficient service while the inn provides people on business and recreational trips with a comfortable and charming place to rest. Celebrating their 20th year of operation in 2012, the owners of the Inn at Lenora’s pride themselves on creating a relaxed atmosphere in a formal setting. A full complimentary breakfast is offered to the overnight guests. Located less than one hour south of Pittsburgh, the Inn at Lenora’s gives city dwellers, nature lovers, history buffs and those in search of a romantic hideaway or executive retreat another place to call home. There are area attractions and activities available in the nearby Laurel Highlands mountains to encourage exploration. No matter what your passion, a few things are constant: warm hospitality, wonderful food and comfortable shelter. The features at the Inn at Lenora’s have not gone unnoticed as the establishment has received a Top 20 Restaurateurs’ Award of Pennsylvania by The Server Magazine. For inquiries about your visit, staff can be reached at dine@lenoras.com. For dining and lodging reservations, call 724-736-2509 or visit the website at www.theinnatlenoras.com.

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Monongahela-Donora Area Lions Club Says Thanks

All enjoy the annual Monongahela-Donora Area Lions Club Pancake Breakfast.

The Lions celebrate at the annual Christmas Parade.

The Monongahela-Donora Area Lions Club would like to thank all those who supported and donated to our events in 2011: broom sales, the Monongahela Farmers Market, duck race, clothing drive, White Cane collection, eyeglass and hearing aid collection, Fleatique on the Mon, Covered Bridge Bake Sale, Monongahela Halloween and Santa parades, and the Pancake Breakfast with Santa. Your generosity enabled us to help others in our community. In addition, we sponsored a new Leo Club at Madonna Catholic Regional School. Leo stands for “Leadership, Experience and Opportunity,” and Leo Clubs encourage youths to develop leadership qualities by participating in social service activities both individually and collectively. Recently, we judged the “Peace Poster” contest held at Madonna. The first place winner’s poster continued on to compete on the state level. Sound like fun? It is, so come join us. We are welcoming new members this year. Feel free to stop at a meeting, or call the membership chairperson below for more— no obligation information. We'd love to have you. We meet twice a month at 6:30 p.m. at the following locations: first Monday, Hoot Owls Athletic Association, 129 4th Avenue, New Eagle; third Monday, Campa’s Restaurant, 664 McKean Avenue, Donora. To become a member, contact Membership Chairperson Lion Jim Steiner at lionjims@gmail.com, or call 724-2587230. Learn more about Lions by visiting our website at www.mondonlions.org.

The Lions sponsored a new Leo group at Madonna Catholic Regional School and judged its Peace Poster Contest. The winner went on to compete at the state level.

A successful fundraiser for the Lions each year is the White Cane Collection.

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Grand Openings! Look what’s new in Town

‘Make Time for Massage’ Opens in Monongahela By Christen M. Stroh

There’s a new business in town, and owner Cindy Cialone is reaching out and touching people to promote it - literally. Make Time for Massage opened in early December in downtown Monongahela. Cindy Cialone, owner and massage therapist, wanted to share massage with people who not only enjoy it, but also need it. “I know people A congratulatory handshake from need massage,” she said. “I Monongahela Area Chamber of work at a chiropractor’s office, and I Commerce President, Anthony Bottino, didn’t feel that I was meeting the needs to owner of Make Time for Massage of enough people.” A lot of people are owner, Cindy Cialone afraid of chiropractors, she noted, but expressed that people are willing to get a massage. Cialone focuses on primarily deep tissue massage and trigger-point therapy, both geared at healing those who have aches and pains, either injuryrelated or not. Sometimes, she says, there is a direct correlation between and accident and an injury, but other times, people just start to ache in places that previously didn’t have any pain. Making people feel better is Cialone’s primary reason for opening Make Time for Massage. A 2006 graduate of Penn Commercial in Washington, PA, Cialone said, “I started this business to try to reach people who need help. I am not a fluff-and-buff massage therapist,” she laughed. “I prefer to treat people who are in pain. I’m not spa service.” Currently, Cialone operates the business on her own and is available by appointment only. She is located at 218 ? W. Main Street in Monongahela and can be reached at 724-747-1411. Gift certificates can also be purchased.

Rev. Ray DiCamillo, Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce board member; Karen Quinto, Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce board member; Mayor Bob Kepics; Cindy Cialone, Owner, Make Time For Massage; Anthony Bottino, President, Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce; Kim Ruffcorn, Treasurer, Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce; Tanya Chaney, Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce board member

New Business Comes to Monongahela in the Form of Rabe’s Trading Post The Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes their newest member to the community: Rabe’s Trading Post, located at 210 Fourth Street (formerly Monongahela Ford) in downtown Monongahela. Owners Mark and Carol Rabe decided to open with consumers in mind during these difficult economic times. Selling affordable quality items is the top priority of the Trading Post. The items sold on consignment are household items, antiques, collectables, appliances & knifes. Consignment and trade are available to the consumers. Rabe’s offer pick up and delivery service for convenience. Visit Rabe’s Trading Post Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed on Sundays. Contact Mark or Carol Rabe at 724-258-6705 if you are interested in consignment of your household items.

(l-r) Karen Quinto, manager, First Niagara Bank; Donald Fraser, Don's Signs; Cis Fraser, Don's Signs; Mayor Robert Kepics; store owners Mark Rabe & Carol Rabe; Anthony Bottino, president of the Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce; and Kimberly Ruffcorn, First Federal Savings Bank.

Rostraver’s Little Bamboo Wishes Good Fortune to All in 2012

Patty Chen (left) and Charlie Wong prepare to distribute Chinese fortune cookies at the Little Bamboo in Rostraver Township. The popular Chinese restaurant is celebrating their 20th anniversary. PHOTO CREDIT: EMMA JENE LELIK

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Local People News Connolly Sisters Testing Their Running Prowess at 2012 Disney Marathon By Kara Prentice

marathoners to begin training six months They’ve penciled Sunday, prior to a marathon January 8, 2012 into their event, so I had two personal calendars as an full 18-week training important date to rememplans to prepare.” ber. For Belle Vernon sisWhen asked about ters Courtney and Jocelyn their choice of postConnolly, a post-holiday high school athletic trip south to the sunshine activities, Courtney state in the middle of winacknowledged the ter presents a much anticiconcern that some pated opportunity to take people may feel about Courtney and Jocelyn Connolly their athletic accomplish- enjoy a relaxing time together during them embarking ments to a new level. Both on an aggressive a break from marathon training. athletes are seeking to marathon training compete in their first plan. She shared her own motivations marathon run and they’ve selected the for getting involved, stating, “I felt menmagical setting of Walt Disney World tally and physically equipped for such a Resort to try and complete a 26.2 mile task because of my previous backadventure. ground, but I didn’t realize there would Testing their bodies’ limits in mental be a significant adjustment to my diet and physical activity is nothing new for and sleep regimen. I am always tweakthe duo. After successful scholastic playing workouts, diets, and sleep schedules ing careers and strong academic achieve- to make this the healthiest experience ments at Belle Vernon Area High School, possible.” both Courtney and Jocelyn are busy When two sisters get together for such studying and/or working in their chosen a competitive task, you might expect field. The natural tendency is to let one’s some friendly good natured training batphysical fitness begin to slide as life tles and new relationship challenges. responsibilities take more time, but both However, sibling rivalry doesn’t appear to ladies know the importance of finding a have adversely impacted any of the good balance between work, school and Connolly sisters’ race day strategies. For leisure time. Courtney, 25, is currently their plan of attack, Courtney offered, employed with Accenture, a consulting “Joce and I plan to run the whole firm located in Washington, D.C., while marathon together, with the admittedly Jocelyn, 19, is a sophomore kinesiology lofty hope of running a Boston-qualifying major at Penn State University. time. We’ve both averaged an 8-minute Free time to devote to strength and mile during long runs and are hoping it conditioning is sparse so both ladies have will be possible to duplicate that in learned to get creative with their training Disney. We know we will need to motiagenda. Courtney describes a typical vate each other once we hit mile 20 week during this fall, “As a first-time because after that it's all mental. I could marathoner, I ran five out of seven days, not imagine doing this without her.” with semi-long 6-8 mile runs on These sisters definitely show that posiWednesdays and 10-20 mile runs on tive attitudes and a strong work ethic are Saturdays. I incorporated 4-5 days of all in the family. They appear ready to weight training, and one day of cross tackle their next big athletic challenge. training. I have been advised by veteran Let the countdown continue.

Mon Valley Fantasy Artist Kayla Ascencio Hosts Successful Art Show By Alice Harris

Up-and-coming fantasy artist Kayla Ascencio hosted a local showing of her original paintings at the Jozart's Center for the Arts in California, PA on November 18, 2011. Kayla is a resident of Roscoe and a 2006 high honors graduate of California High School. She is also an honors graduate of the Douglas Education Center in Monessen with an associate degree in illustration and a Fantasy artist Kayla Ascencio poses with "Joker," second major in fantasy art. one of her recently sold original paintings. Her medium of choice is acrylic. Kayla loves that “fantasy art is always full of challenges and you never know exactly what the end result will be. You can create your own world and escape from reality while telling a story with only one image.” Her favorite aspect of original fantasy art is that whatever concepts she comes up with are her own, making her paintings unique. "Somebody might have the same idea but have executed it in a completely different fashion,” she said. “Nobody else has that same painting." Besides original paintings, Kayla also offers numbered signed prints of most of her paintings. Her latest project is painting the face of a beloved pet on Christmas balls for gifts. She is also open to freelance and consignment work. Kayla recently created a website: http://www.kaylafantasyart.com, which allows her to show all her paintings and to be able to offer them beyond the local area. She also started a successful eBay store and is scheduling other shows in the Mon Valley area. Kayla's ultimate goal is to afford a comfortable living from her art. From the number of paintings she has sold this year, Kayla is well on her way to achieving her dream!

Residence at Hilltop Director Elected to State Board Walter H. Young, executive director of The Residence at Hilltop in Monongahela, has been elected the Independent Personal Care Representative for the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association or PHCA. A resWalter H. Young ident of Whitehall, Mr. Young is a licensed Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) and a licensed Personal Care Administrator (PCA) who was hired in 2009 to manage The Residence at Hilltop, a subsidiary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc., the parent company of Monongahela Valley Hospital. Mr. Young brings the leadership experience he gained in various administrative roles at other personal care facilities in the region. He is also an instructor in nursing home and assisted living administrator training at the Community College of Allegheny County. In the past, he served on the PHCA's board of directors and on the Personal Care Advisory Committee of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. He received the H. Lee Jarvis award from the PHCA for outstanding leadership.

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ASK ASK the

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APPLIANCES & FURNITURE

EXPERTS

Q: What is it about the Flexsteel brand furniture that makes it such high quality?

THESE AREA SERVICE PROVIDERS ARE HERE TO ANSWER ALL YOUR QUESTIONS... If you have questions for our expert, send your questions to MON VALLEY MESSENGER, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 or e-mail: news@monvalleymessenger.com

PODIATRY & FOOT CARE

A: Crafting furniture is like cooking: the better ingredients you use, the better the finished result. That's why Flexsteel takes such great care in selecting the materials used in building sofas, sleepers, recliners, and motion furniture. Our exclusive blue steel seat spring design has "Pothole" been delivering unmatched comfort and durability since Highway Appliances 1927. And unlike eight way hand-tied springs, it never needs retying or replacing to keep you from getting that sinking feeling years from now. State-of-the-art cross-grain laminated hardwoods let us create frames so strong you can count on them for a lifetime - we guarantee it. Flexsteel fabrics have passed demanding tests for fading, pilling and wearability. Our leathers are available in your choice of finishes, from practical, easy-care choices to luxuriously soft aniline dyes. Over 1,000 different fabrics and leathers to choose from.

Visit Highway Appliance and experience the Flexsteel quality for yourself.

Q: What is a podiatrist? A: A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), also known as a podiatric physician or surgeon, qualified by their education and training to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Podiatrists are uniquely qualified among medical professionals to treat the foot and ankle based on their education, training and experience. Podiatrists receive medical education and training comparable to the medical doctors, including four years of undergraduate education, four years of graduate education at one of eight accredited podiatric medical colleges and two or three of hospital residency training.

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REAL ESTATE

What problems do podiatrists treat? Podiatrists provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions including common to complex disorders and injuries that affect people of all ages. They are uniquely qualified to detect the early stages of diseases that exhibit warning signs in the lower extremities, such as diabetes, arthritis and cardiovascular disease, and they manage foot conditions which may pose an ongoing threat to a patient’s overall health. Many foot problems do not respond to “conservative” management. Your podiatric physician can determine when surgical intervention may be helpful. Often when pain or deformity persists, surgery may be appropriate to alleviate discomfort or to restore the function of your foot.

What type of foot procedures can be performed at a surgical center? When conservative treatments have failed, there are several podiatric conditions that can be corrected surgically. Some of the more common are – correction of bunion deformity, hammertoes, overlapping toes, bone spurs, deformities and conditions can be taken care of in a surgical center. As with any surgery, pre-surgical testing and exams are required to insure a good experience and outcome.

S U R G I C E N T E R Dr. Charles Michael Irvin, DPM Centerville Clinics, Inc. 1070 Old National Pike Road Fredericktown, PA 15333 724-632-6801

Dr. Mark Hofbauer, DPM Dr. Charles Michael Irvin, DPM Dr. William DeCarbo, DPM Dr. Paula F. Raugellis, DPM The Orthopedic Group Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. 100 Stoops Drive, Suite 200 246 Elm Drive Monongahela, PA 15063 Waynesburg, PA 15370 724-379-5802 724-852-2255

Dr. Alan Sally, DPM Fayette Podiatry 631-A National Pike East Brownsville, PA 15417 724-785-8060

Dr. William DeCarbo, DPM The Orthopedic Group 800 Plaza Avenue, Suite 140 Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-379-5802

Q: What is the most common error when selling your home?

A: THE WRONG PRICE! A home that is priced too high will end up selling for a distressed price rather than a fair Pat Alfano price. A correct price is based on a number of factors, includAssociate Broker Monongahela Office ing recent sales of comparable homes in your area, current 724-262-1040 market trends, and your home’s condition. List the price right and your home will be exposed to a greater number of buyers, which leads to higher offers and ultimately, the maximum selling price for you! Buyers are wary of homes that have been on the market for a long time and will assume they know the reason. A Northwood Real Estate Professional will help you take an objective marketbased approach to pricing. Call us today for a free competitive analysis. 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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PLUMBING Q: The recent water scare has me thinking of purchasing some type of filtration for my home. Any suggestions? A: The water you use today is the same water that was on earth 3 billion years ago, and it's been recycled time and time again. I would think that, over time, the way we have polluted the earth, water is bound to have many impurities in it. I also think that our water authorities do a great job purifying our water. For every water intake into a treatment plant, there are many more sewage Tim Bartman plants that dump their discharge water into the same river that we Owner Bartman’s One Hour need for our water. Makes you think, doesn't it? Flush your toilet, Heating & Air Conditioning turn on the faucet, you’re getting recycled water. Sometimes the way our water is treated causes other problems. Take chlorine for an example. It is a necessary additive to the water to kill forms of biological agents, such as bacteria and viruses. The problem is that chlorine is harmful to us weather we drink it or bath in it. you don't want it in the water, but there is no feasible technology at this time to replace it. Once it gets to your house, it should be removed, but how? We use a water treatment system called Nature’s Miracle. It effectively removes chemicals like chlorine, arsenic, lead, mercury and many more. At the same time it leaves the natural minerals like calcium and magnesium that we need for healthy living. Nature’s Miracle uses no chemicals and requires no maintenance for 6 to 8 years. I have one in my home and I love it. The water taste great at all the faucets in the house, our clothes fell softer, and my skin is not all itchy and dried out. Some other products available are: ∑ Water softeners which soften the water by removing calcium and magnesium bicarbonate and replace them sodium (salt). They are a lot of maintenance and do not remove harmful chemicals. ∑ Reverse osmosis removes a lot of chemicals but also strips the water of all good nutrients, so basically you have dead water. They are usually only at the kitchen faucet, so you bathe in and brush your teeth in untreated water. If you do not maintain them, bacteria can grow in them creating another problem. ∑ Bottled water in more brands than not is tap water taken from a public system and is no cleaner or safer than your tap water. The list goes on. None can do what Nature’s Miracle can and also be maintenance-free. Check it out at www.betterwaternow.com today. Bartman Inc. 257 W. Main Street, Monongahela, PA 15063 724-258-2215 724-225-1644 bartmaninc@verizon.net

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Publish your news for FREE! PRESS RELEASES, EVENTS, HAPPENINGS, ORGANIZATION NEWS OR BUSINESS NEWS. Mail: Mon Valley Messenger, P.O. Box 103, Finleyvil e, PA 15332 Phone or Fax: • 412.249.8177 • Email: news@monvalleymessenger.com

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SPORTS Lady Leps Basketball Standing Tall Things are looking up, way up, for the Belle Vernon Area girls basketball team, in a most familiar way. For the team’s towering sister forwards, 6foot junior Jessica Slagus and her 6-foot-one younger sister Kaitlyn, a freshman, the relationship is familial. As of the first 4 games, the Lady Leopards are 31. Jessica is averaging 18 points and grabbing 15 rebounds per game. She had a career-best game versus Greensburg Salem, scoring 28 points and with 21 rebounds. Kaitlyn has been helping her sister in the middle, coming off the bench, and helping to give the Lady Leps a dominant presence underneath, one which other teams are having a The Slagus sisters are a big reason hard time competing against. as to why the BVA Lady Leps are The Lady Leopards start section play January dominating this season. 5th, at home, against West Mifflin, then travel to Ringgold on the 9th. They will be home again on the 12th against South Park and Thomas Jefferson on the 16th. Belle Vernon is one of the more competitive teams in AAA and appears to be a force to reckon with, in a big way.

Union Finley Midget Football Association Secures a Winning Season The "Bearable Towels” were once again in full force this season, as the 2011 Union Finley Midget Football Association continued its winning tradition, as all four teams once again were either crowned as division champion or conference runner up. The Tiny Mite Bears Flag Team, (5 - 7 year olds), finished the season as their conference champions. The 2011 Tiny Mites had a very special season, finishing the regular season with a 7 - 1 record. The Bears stingy defense was the league’s best surrendering only 2 points in the regular season, while the offense finished as the league’s 3rd best. The Bears continued their success through two rounds of playoffs, and squared up against the Rostraver Leopards for the championship game. The Bears fell 6 - 0 in a very defensive battle against the league’s top-ranked offensive team. The Termite Bears (8 - 9 year olds) competed in a very competitive conference this year and managed to complete the regular season as the conference runner up. Although they finished 2nd in their conference, the Termites were unable to secure a seed for the post-season rounds, based on the competiveness of the division this season. Based on returning players, as well as those moving up from the Tiny Mite team, next season looks to be very promising for the Termites. The Mighty Mites (10 - 11 year olds) captured the conference runner up trophy, finishing the regular season with a record of 5 - 3. By doing so, they earned a 6th seed in the playoffs. The Bears came up short in their quest to move on the 2nd round of the playoffs with a hard fought loss the #3 seeded Rostraver Leopards. The 2012 season looks to be another successful season for the Bears based on returning talent and those players moving up from the Termite squad. The Midgets (12 - 13 year olds), completed the regular season by capturing

the conference runner up spot as well, also securing a 6th seed in the playoffs. Their season ended following a very competitively played game against the Brownsville Falcons. The outlook for 2012 is very bright for this team next year based on the returning players’ playoff experience they have gained throughout the years as Bears. The success of the 2011 season is directly attributed to dedication and hard working players, as well as the outstanding support that each team received from their cheerleading squads, family members, coaching staffs, and the multitude of parent volunteers who worked diligently each week to aid in a successful and fun season. Union Finley would also like to thank all of the corporate sponsors for their generosity and support during this very exciting season. Union Finley has been successfully competing in the Mon Valley Midget Football League for 38 years. This program has been and continues to be a successful feeder program for the surrounding school districts that the players from Union Finley represent. Many graduates of this program have gone on to be members of WPIAL and state championship teams for their school districts. Registration is open to all boys and girls in the Finleyville, South Park, Monongahela, Bethel Park, Peters Township and Nottingham Township communities for Tiny Mite (flag, 5 - 7 year olds), Termites, (8 - 9 year olds), Mighty Mites (10 - 11 year olds), and Midgets (12 - 13 year olds) for both football and cheerleading. The league provides all equipment and uniforms. Keep an eye out for advertisements for the 2012 season registration dates in future editions of this publication. Please feel free to contact League President and South Park Resident Jody Stewart at 724-348-4935 if you have any questions.

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SPORTS

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Union Finley Tiny Mite Bears Score Championship Season

The 2011 Union Finley Tiny Mite Bears capped off their amazing season by capturing the conference championship and representing the community in the Mon Valley Midget Football League Championship Game. The Bears completed the regular season with an amazing 7 - 1 record, with their only loss being in week 7 against the Rostraver Leopards (2 – 0). The Bears posted 7 shut outs through the regular season, earning the #1 defensive rank in the league. The Bears offensive fire power amassed 144 points on the scoreboard throughout the regular season, earning the 3rd overall offense in the league. This amazing performance during the regular season earned the Bears the conference championship and the #2 overall seed in the playoffs. The Bears also earned home field advantage for the 1st round of the playoffs. The Bears didn’t disappoint the home crowd, as they defeated a very competitive Charleroi team, 14 - 0. The Bears advanced to the second round of the playoffs to square off against the always-tough Yough Cougars. The Bears kept their fans on their feet as they cemented their path

to the championship game by winning 36 - 8. The Bears faced the #1 Seeded Rostraver Leopards in the championship game. The game remained tied 0 - 0 nearly to the end and looked as if it may have gone into overtime. However, Rostraver was able to break the tie and go on to win 6 - 0. The Bears fought valiantly until the final whistle, and although they walked off the field with heavy hearts, they held their heads high and deservedly so. The Tiny Mite Cheerleaders were wonderful all season and throughout the playoffs. Their dedication and hard work was equal to that of the players, and it showed in the electricity and excitement they brought to the field every week. It was magical season for a very special group of players. The Bears showed heart throughout the season; they exemplified great sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork, all of which are far more important beyond the football field. Most importantly, they played for each other and the name on the front of their uniforms— “Bears”—and the communities they represent. Great job, Bears.

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The Champion Tiny Mite Bears, cheerleaders, and coaches are (front row) Nicholas Sinz, Gino Maffeo, Tyler Bresselsmith, Owen Lafferty, Tommy Greaves, Danny Verscharen, Drew Lafferty, Ryan Bywalski, Tre Bundy, Gabe Finale, Anthony Blackburn, Frankie Grelo, (second row) Aiden Cogley, James Fine, Colton Johnson, Carmen Weil, Jack Duncan, Sam Panian, Sean Morrison, Patrick Marsiglia, Dominic Phillips, Colin Riberich, Madix Bowers, Maddox Sukel, (third row, cheerleaders) Daniella Vecchio, Gabby Urban, Daisha Briscoe, Halie Lendway, Summer Grelo, Olivia Vecchio, Dakota Thompson, Rexanne Martin, Kirra Gerard, Melanie Arrington, Madyson Ginsburg, Alexis Bresselsmith, (top row) Student Coach Eric Higgs, Coach Mike Finale, Student Coach Emily Tomosky, Coach Erika Urban, Coach Beth Martin, Coach Greg Rollage, Head Coach Mike Bundy, and Coach Adrian Weil. Cheerleader Grace Mucci is missing from the photo.

Incredible things happen every day. Reading a newspaper is a great way to experience the action together. With news, sports, event listings, and community photos there is something for everyone. So save some time to read a newspaper.

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School News...School News Bentworth School District Discusses Cyber Schooling for Students By Alice Harris

The December 12, 2011 Bentworth School District meeting was held at 7 p.m. in the Bentworth School library. The meeting began with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. As there were no public comments, School Board President Atkinson asked for any questions of comments concerning enclosures #1-5 (i.e. November minutes, treasurer's reports, bill lists, and cafeteria and student activities reports). As there were none, these items were approved. Superintendent Charles Baker stated that the District is required to have a working school safety plan in place. The current plan is continually updated; however, a computerized program offered by US Life Safety, Inc. of Canonsburg (http://www.uslifesafety.com/) is currently available to all schools in Washington County at no charge for the first year. Under this program, critical information is in place and accessible to approved authorities in event of emergency situations and provides a framework for another level of preparedness and security for the District. The offer for this plan as it stands was approved. Assistant Superintendent Scott Martin stated a review of Board policy #113.2, Programs Section: 504 Chapter 15 will be addressed at the next meeting. Email any questions. Voting will be on policy only, not on regulations. He also discussed the District's cyber school enrollment, citing 42 active students are currently in four different cyber schools. The cost to educate a student is not more that $2,500 per student. However, cyber schools are receiving anywhere from $9,000 to $20,000 per student per year depending on needs. Business Manager Deb Babirad asked approval to extend the agreement with Premier Power for electric service through July 2014 at the same or less annual rate. A contract with Driver Run G to Hope Feenan (effective December 1, 2011) was approved. Act 1 of Special Session 2006 Resolution (Enclosure 9C) to not raise millage more than 2.4% for 2012 was approved.

REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the February issue is

JANUARY 12 E-mail your news items to news@monvalley.com

Madonna Catholic Regional

S C H O O L N E WS

MCRS recently celebrated NCEA Principal Appreciation Day by presenting Mrs. Sharon Loughran Brown with a banner signed by the students. Principal Brown is shown with eighth graders Taylor Smydo and Maria Loftis.

Eighth graders Stephanie Zirngibl, Katie Sendek, and Michael Hudak help decorate the Christmas tree in Chess Park.

MCRS Leo Club members assisted at a Lions Club-sponsored Santa Breakfast. Sixth graders Hannah Williams, Allie Zimmerman, and Sarah Grandinette are shown ready to serve.

Lions Club Peace Poster Contest winner Jenna Albert is shown with Lion representative Rosemarie Andrako and her parents, Glenn and Maria Albert.

Rain did not damper a recent field trip to Round Hill Farm.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Ringgold Students Hold Championship Debate By Miranda Startare

Ringgold High School student recently participated in their biannual Championship Debate in front of an audience of teachers and students. This is the 13th year the school has held these debates. The two participating teams were the top-scoring teams from a preliminary round of debates held previously. The resolution was “Student athletes should be tested for performance-enhancing drugs and controlled substances.” The students on the teams were given debate lessons by their sponsor and

teacher, Linda Fetchen. The students work hard in preparing for these debates, and these same students often join the Youth and Government group at the YMCA or join the school’s mock trial team, according to Mrs. Fetchen. The winning debate team was determined to be the “Negative” team, who argued against drug-testing of student athletes. The debate was moderated by the debate student coordinator, junior Mitchell Kohlburn. A panel of judges included Laura Piecknick (Charleroi High School teacher), Angela Gorman, and Sandra Bordini (retired teacher and debate team sponsor from South Park

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Ringgold High School Debate Team members (left to right): Matt Petras, Adam Martin, Cassie Lignelli, Lacey Gavalla (Affirmative Team), Mitch Kohlburn (Student Moderator and Debate Coordinator), Harley Bobnar, Jamie Klebanski, and Kelley Donovan (Negative Team).

High School). Audience votes also helped determine the winning team. Additionally, each team chose their “most worthy adversary.” Harley Bobnar (Negative Team) and Cassie Lignelli (Affirmative Team) each received this distinction from their opposing teams along with a certificate of achievement. Members of the Negative Team were: Harley Bobnar, Kelley Donovan, and Jamie Klebanski. Members of the Affirmative Team were: Lacey Gavalla, Cassie Lignelli, Adam Martin, and Matt Petras.

The students all gave a great debate performance and displayed preparedness while discussing the various sides of a thought-provoking current topic. Previous topics of the school’s debate team have been: locker searches, smoking in public places, bringing troops home, Presidential Elections, capital punishment, space program, casino gambling, fetal stem cell research, etc. The Ringgold High School Debate Team will hold its next debate in the spring and hopes to join Charleroi High School students to hold debates at both schools.

One Step Forward – Two Steps Back Ringgold Board Looking to Reopen Schools Closed By Prior Board By Paul Chasko

The newly elected members of the Ringgold School Board on December 21 voted in a nearly solid block along with Board President Chuck Smith to employ architects HHSDR to perform yet another costly study - this one to investigate the possibility of new usage for existing school buildings. Near the end of the meeting, board member Bill Ellis placed a motion on the floor that proposed engaging HHSDR to explore the feasibility of: • Reopening the Donora and Monongahela school buildings (DEC and MEC) to once again house Ringgold Elementary students. • Converting the Ringgold Elementary School South (RESS) to a middle school • Closing the Finley Middle School Building. The motion passed 6-3 with the following votes: Yes: Charles Smith, Mariann Bulko, Bill Ellis, Carol Flament, Gene Kennedy, Robert Smith No: Chris Carroll, Larry Mauro, William Stein

The vote was preceded by lengthy comments from a number of parents each speaking against the conversion of the RESS to a middle school and returning the elementary students to the old buildings in Monongahela and Donora. Their comments piled on one another along the same main points. • There has been a very positive bonding between the children from Donora and Monongahela at the RESS. They are working well together, are happy in their new school building and do not want to be returned to the old buildings. The majority of parents do not want this, either. • The taxpayers have spent a fortune renovating the RESS to a new modern elementary center – why now (four months after its opening) go to another costly renovation to convert it to a middle school? • Some parents speaking at the meeting believe there are health issues in the old buildings – particularly with air quality. Specific instances were cited where breathing problems in children experienced in the older buildings lessened noticeably when the children moved into the RESS. These same par-

ents cited their concerns about mold and asbestos in the old buildings. The Ringgold High School vocal group Razmataz performs The thorny issue at the Ringgold School Board meeting. unsettling the status quo continues higher than what may be estimated. A to be the condition of the foundation in long list of deficiencies in the DEC and some parts of the existing Middle MEC buildings was generated at a School building. Sensors are monitoring recent board workshop. the miniscule movements in the founA special board meeting will be held dation in various parts of the building. on January 11 to begin examining the Data is gathered (now at two-month cost estimates for the proposed changes. intervals) and reports are issued. Residents/taxpayers are urged to attend Experts’ comments on the building con- to voice their concerns. dition are interpreted differently; the The board has not acted to approve only certainty is that there have been the expansion and renovation of the minor movements in some parts of the Ringgold Elementary School North in foundations and walls for the past 10 or Gastonville, which would have added so years, and the building is still safe for six additional permanent classrooms. use according to the architect/engineers. A positive reprieve at the meeting was Board members William Stein and the annual Christmas performance of Chris Carroll are concerned that the the Ringgold High School vocal group – costs for bringing the MEC and DEC Razmataz. See the photo. buildings “up to code” will be much Go to our website at www.monvalleymessenger.com for more details on this meeting.

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Kids & Family... Mon Valley YMCA Youth and Government Club Back From Western PA State Elections Convention Mon Valley YMCA Youth and Government Club Officers are (top) Caleb Radomile, Charleroi, Lt. Governor of the State Senate; Brennan Payne, Charleroi, Supreme Court Justice; Savannah DeRosa and Elizabeth and Julianna Jeffery, Monongahela, State Reporters, (bottom row) Kylie Lemley, Charleroi, Supreme Court Justice; Chrysta Rands, Donora, Senate Current Events Committee Chair; and Taylor Jones, Monessen, Video Press Corps. Miranda McLAughlin, Belle Vernon, State Reporter, is missing from the photo.

The Mon Valley YMCA Youth and Government Club has returned from the Western Pennsylvania State Elections Convention with eight elected officers that will preside over the meeting at the state capital in April 2012. It is never too late to join Youth and Government at the Mon Valley YMCA. If you are in grades 6 – 12, come join our club if you like to argue, think you know everything, write stories, take pictures, do computer/media work, or just want to join a national club that looks great on your resume in the future. (You do not need to be a Mon Valley YMCA member to join.) Call Adoree DeLuca-Johnson for more information at 724-483-8077, ext. 206, or just come to one of our meetings on Wednesday nights from 7 - 8:30 p.m., and we can give you all of the information. We currently have 32 members from 5 different school districts and home school programs.

Mon Valley YMCA Offers New Youth Program in February The Mon Valley YMCA will offer a new youth program in the coming year. The Young Athletes Track Camp begins Saturday, February 4th and runs 6 weeks. Coach Greg Levander will work with children ages 6-9 who are interested in excelling in any sport. These kids will gain coordination, agility, speed and stamina while learning the proper way to move across the field or court. It’s not just for kids who want to run track. This camp will help kids interested in any sport where running is essential. Once they learn to maneuver themselves, they will be comfortable focusing on fine turning sport specific skills when that season starts. Levander has been a member of the Y for some time now and is currently active with the Masters Swim Team. He has also competed in football, hockey and volleyball over the years. In addition, he has several years of coaching under his belt including youth baseball and football. “I wanted to do this camp because I actually had parents coming to me saying that their children never really learned to run the right way,” says Levander. The camp will meet from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Saturday mornings. Pre-registration is required and participants are asked to dress comfortably and bring a water bottle each week. Call the YMCA at 724-483-8077 to register.

Next Stop…Italy? Then Your First Stop Should be the YMCA Coming to the YMCA in February is Italian for Tourists. Join Professora Natalee Russo-Amati for this 6-week journey into the Italian language. The course is designed for beginner students who would like to acquire the fundamentals of the Italian language while experiencing travel scenarios and learning more about all the different regions of Italy. Learn about customs, food and most of all travel tips! Learn basic expressions, how to read a menu and how to communicate. Classes will meet Mondays and Thursdays beginning February 6-March 15th from 6-9 p.m. For questions, please contact Natalee Russo-Amati at 724-931-4764 or at nataleea@msn.com. Pre-registration is required. Call the YMCA at 724-4838077.

Mon Valley YMCA Teen Leaders Club The Mon Valley YMCA Teen Leaders Club recently volunteered at the local Monessen Food Bank packing boxes for the needy on November 18. The Mon Valley YMCA Teen Leaders Club is made up of students in grades 6 - 12 and can help at any nonprofit community-based function. To join us or request our assistance, call Youth and Teen Director Adoree DeLucaJohnson at 724-483-8077, ext. 206.

Mon Valley YMCA Teen Leaders Club members Isaac Petrosky of Donora and Abby Smith of Monessen help pack boxes.

Caleb Radomile of Charleroi volunteers by cutting open containers of spaghetti sauce to pack.

Brandt DeLuca-Johnson (20 months) of Donora stacks collapsed cardboard boxes to discard.

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KIDS & FAMILY

Registration Opens for Mon Valley YMCA Child Learning Center Preschool The Mon Valley YMCA is accepting applications for the 2012-2013 school year for preschool classes in its Child Learning Center. Registration for members and students currently enrolled in the Y preschool begins Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Open registration begins Wednesday, February 1, 2012. Registration is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Applications may be picked up in advance in the Y Business Office, but no applications will be accepted until the dates mentioned. Three-day pre-K classes meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with a morning session from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and an afternoon session from 12:30 to 3 p.m. This program prepares students for their kindergarten experience by introducing the Zoo-Phonics curriculum. The program fully involves the student with phonemic awareness skills, the alphabet, and how to read, spell, and write in learning centers and group activities. Field trips, holiday programs, and guest speakers stimulate all levels of learning. Two-day classes meet on Tuesday and Thursday with a morning session from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and afternoon session from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. There is also one afternoon class on Monday and Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. This program introduces letters and numbers through puppets in the Letter People curriculum. Teddy, Me & You is a very special program that introduces 2 1/2 year olds to the classroom with new friends and new experiences as Mrs. Joanna Stroh welcomes and nur-

tures the children as they learn to follow directions, listen and communicate during circle time and interacting with other students during playtime. Classes are for one hour one day a week either on Tuesdays or Thursdays. The Mon Valley YMCA Child Learning Center Early Childhood Education Program is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and is a Keystone Stars facility. Teachers are certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The center meets Pennsylvania’s Early Learning Standards for academic, social. and physical skills that a child should develop throughout the course of the year and provides guidance for activities to support this development in the classroom and at home. Years of research confirms that early learning in quality preschool education improves a child’s opportunity for success in school and in life by helping them set a foundation and develop positive attitudes toward independent learning. Through working with our local school districts, the curriculum is developed to help children prepare for their kindergarten experience. Learning centers in preschool classrooms are very special places that provide the perfect setting for children to learn, to grow, and to develop at their own pace. The caring professional staff allows children to move freely through wellequipped learning centers that stimulate and let the child imagine and create his or her own masterpieces. They help children to establish supportive relationships among the children in the classroom. For additional information, contact the Y at 724-483-8077.

Four Reasons to Start Swim Lessons at the Mon Valley YMCA Why You Should Consider After-School Swim Lessons for Your Child By Katrina Ramser

With fall sports, teacher conferences, and homework looming, swimming may be the last thing on your mind. But there are several very good reasons to consider signing up your child for lessons now, says Leslie Haney, a swim instructor in Cary, NC. 1. Instructors are better rested. Teachers become water-logged as the busy summer season progresses, but they're refreshed and ready to deliver their personal best again after a few weeks of rest. In the winter, you’ll also be more likely to have your pick of instructors and more convenient class times to suit your schedule. 2. There’s less chaos. Without the pressure of learning in a big group of kids, your child can get more individual attention and the breathing room needed to develop water confidence. “Less stress means more focus on progress, not finding space to teach,” says Haney. 3. The weather doesn’t matter. In a warm indoor pool, your child will have the opportuni-

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ty to expend pent-up energy and get some exercise even on cold, rainy days. 4. Swim lessons offer a consistent after-school activity. As you sort through your after-school options, you can join the ranks signing up for art or soccer or karate. But swimming lessons fit just as easily into a weekly regime. Another plus: your kids will go from pool to locker room shower and come home clean instead of a mess! The Mon Valley YMCA offers four-week session (Wednesday or Thursday) daytime swim lessons. Polliwog class is for children ages 3-14, where children wear flotation devices and need to be comfortable without mom or dad in the pool. Primary skills taught include breathing, floating, kicking, and paddling as well as building self-confidence. Session dates are Wednesdays, January 11- February 1, 12:1512:45 p.m., and Thursdays, January 12- February 2, 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Evening swim lessons begin February 6, 8, and 11 and are held 6:30 - 7 p.m. (Polliwog) and 7-7:30 p.m. (Guppy/Minnow). For more information, call 724-483-8077, or sign up in the business office.

Published Monthly by Haniford Enterprises, LLC

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 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

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FOOD & DINING... Staying in or going out, plan your evening using the Mon Valley Messenger Dining Guide.

January 2012 ——————————————————————————————————————————

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Local Worship Catholic Women’s College Club Celebrates Holiday Season as Season of Giving The Christmas meeting of the Catholic Women’s College Club was held December 5, 2011 at the Alpine Lounge in Monessen at 6:00. Tables were decorated with red tablecloths and white glitter tress. Lisa Foglia, chairperson for the December meeting, commented on the beautiful handmade quilled ornaments. They were created by the art students at Bentworth H.S. who were supervised by Lisa De Angelo, art instructor at the high school. Each member was to choose an ornament from the trees as a gift from the committee. Foglia also had pamphlets for everyone explaining the art of quilling. Dinner was served and entertainment was provided by the Ringgold H.S. Razz-a-ma-tazz singers under the direction of Mrs. Colleen Tolliver. Traditional Christmas Carols were enjoyed by everyone. President Susan Gessner opened the meeting with a reading titled “Anticipating our Saviour.” Minutes from the November meeting were read and the treasurer’s report was given. Both were approved. Vice President Judy Kovalchik asked members to participate in a special project by making cards for a child with a special Christmas wish. Committee reports were given. Ambassadors of Faith delivered cookies to 40 patients in neighboring nursing homes. Members were

COMING IN FEBRUARY

asked to visit or send cards to those who are there. A donation was made to The Covenant House. The Charitable Services Committee brought Christmas wheat seeds to be planted on St. Lucy’s feast day, December 13.Thank you notes were read from the recipients of Thanksgiving gifts. Handicapped Adults chairperson Mary Ann Gallo announced a visit will be made for the holidays and welcomed everyone to join to the committee. The welfare committee has been sending spiritual cards remembering the sick and lost loved ones. December committee member Marion Gillot spoke about Mary and Martha, the holy women of the bible for the month. Members were encouraged to follow their examples of hospitality and attention that they had given to others. President Gessner had announced that her daughter, Carrie, a member of the U.S. Peace Corp is home from Kazakhstan. She thanked members for their prayers and support of her daughter. Diane Vernet won the gift of the month, a Christmas candle arrangement. The meeting was adjourned. Dorothy Bewick reminded members that the February 6, 2012 meeting will be held at the Mon Valley Hospital Conference Center at 6:00 p.m.

Grocery Bingo at Holy Ghost Church Weather permitting, a Grocery Bingo is held every Sunday afternoon at Holy Ghost Church Social Center, 9th Street and Meadow Avenue, Charleroi. No bingo January 1. Donation is $.50 per four-way card. Special, Jackpot, and Winner-TakeAll games are for cash prizes. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. and the games begin at 1:30 p.m. The public is welcome. For additional information, call the Social Center at 724489-0500. In the event of inclement weather or forecast, you may call the Social Center after 11 a.m. on Sunday to hear a recorded message.

Children & Family

CALL TODAY FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: 412-249-8177

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HOME & GARDEN

January 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————————

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NEW EAGLE David Lance Robert Kepics

Citimortgage Inc. Maria Eloisa Arroyo

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CARROLL TOWNSHIP Estate of Bernice Todd Ross Garcia US Bank NA John Vrabel Becky McCullough Robert Cosgrove Penny Hoak Rebecca Presto Robert Bernardo Jr. Federal National Mortgage Assn. Thomas Ludolff

Christopher Squires Dennis and Sandra Butler Opportunity Inc. Trucap REO Corp. Federal National Mortgage Corp. Kate Levdansky and Joseph Snyder Richard and Wendy Roessler Mark Oehmler and Janice Kosko Ronald and Dianne Feschuk Thomas Laird Martin and Judith Gassner

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BENTLEYVILLE Brian Allen

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Main St.

CHARLEROI Estate of Pearl Johnson Thomas Pivovarnik Wells Fargo Bank Eye Sight Center Inc. Kenneth Krueger Michael's Foods Inc. Estate of Mary Spallino Nicholas Christopher Elaine Martinko Frengky Sanggam

Robin Fartini Paulette and Craig Fisher Beth Blevins Mon Vale Multiphasics Inc. Barbara McCoy Vincent and Charlotte Vaccaro Jack and Denise Nedley Neal Rubin Jeremy Moersch Jason Mattey

106 Meadow Ave. 508 Seventh St. 118 Lookout Ave. 305 McKean Ave. 607 Ninth St. McKean Ave. 823 Fallowfield Ave. 1114 Lincoln Ave. 717 Oakland Ave. 106 Prospect Ave.

NORTH CHARLEROI Clara Carlock Adeline Matty John Kintigh II Estate of Dorothy Defelices Terry Shetterly

Brad Vargo Kelsey Nicolette Kristyn Gavazzi and Robert Gavazzi Jr. Susan and Christopher Williams Christopher Kelley

439 Highland Ave. 809 Fourth St. 524 Center Ave. 723 Fourth St. 560 Walnut St.

DONORA Housing & Urban Development Kyle Frost Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Pauline Triscik FM611 Ltd. Timothy Durka Joseph Alvarez

Jeremy Keefer Catherine Clark Glenn Weathers Jr. and Ashley Weathers Donora Borough Tawnya Moore Kenny Balch and Mitch Meyer Roger and Patricia Ohler Richard Rodriguez

467 Eighth St. 438 Liberty Ave. 875 Thompson Ave. Unknown Address 492 Eighth St. 106 Thompson Ave. 320 Castner Ave. 1207 Meldon Ave.

Arlene Schmitt et al. Michael Chromulak Housing & Urban Development

Donald and Kira Bobeck 634 Fifth St. Louis Offerman Jr. 88 Lincoln Ave. Elta Devariste and Makaylahmarie Exume 912 Meldon Ave.

FALLOWFIELD Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Estate of Frank Blazevich Jessica Kenyon Edward Metz Estate of Stephen Telleck

Ashley Weathers Michael Kabay Anthony Demarco Jr. Jill Zenobi and Darryll Lenhart Charles Bailey

$127,500 $40,000 $38,866 $92,590 by sheriff's deed. $1,084 by sheriff's deed. $146,000 $114,000 $50,000 $93,000 $27,200 $96,500 $30,000 $13,500 $56,500 $25,000 $248,000 $18,000 $350,000 $41,650 $15,000 $54,000 $12,000 $32,000 $63,000 $59,000 $60,000 $10,000

$10,000 $7,000 $1,327 by sheriff's deed. $9,500 by sheriff's deed. $17,500 $5,900 $27,000 $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $16,982) $25,000 $20,000 $5,452

427 Old Route 71 $1,998 by sheriff's deed. State Route 481 $10,000 35 Holly Drive $88,200 Lavonne Ave. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $4,493) 119 Crossridge Road $85,000

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

MONESSEN Don Burney Delroy Ross

Kitima Frank Knox 1022 Land Trust

George Burroughs Jr. Barb Soltis Colleen Orsini

Gray Land Trust Rostraver Garage Trust Rostraver 920 Trust

FM 611 Ltd. Sharon Vitale Margaret Stofan Estate of Thelma Petrone Jennie Valente Deana Zborowski Kreger Milton Stupakis Betty Zenobi Terrence Evans Bruce Manko Laurel Minniti Estate of Lois Elaine Youger Roger Milgrom trustee

Catherine Clark Federal National Mortgage Assn. Kisha Mandell Renee Frost Donald and Michelle Popovich Joseph Lombardo and Roseann Rotheram Robert and Tessa Cain Benjamin and Lynda Billy Dean Johnson Paul Anthony Evans Dora Valdovinos Valley 1st Community FCU Mon Valley Initiative Kinico Land Trust

SPEERS Mariana Sanchez DeMarec Bank America NA Royce Sofran Russell Gaisbacher

Norman and Dawn Celaschi Robert and Deborah Rows Karen Johnson Russell's Rentals LLC

165 Linden Ave. 621 Speers St. 740 Lewis Ave. Webster Ave.

NORTH BELLE VERNON Estate of Caroline Gialas Estate of Michael Mendicino

Karen Muirhead and Jean Zelenko Anthony and Elizabeth Watson

736 Broad Ave. 409 Ferncliff Drive

ROSTRAVER Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Robert Poland Robert LaVella Robert LaVella Debra Lee Bernstein Metro Baptist Temple First Line Development Rolling Hill Farm Kerry Timko Michael Mendicino George Pierce Phoenix Land & Leasing Inc. REC Development Nicole Serlo

Carmen Yates 1000 Collinsburg Road $21,000 Jonathon Smith 377 Pear Ave. $35,000 LaVella Family L.P. Finley Road $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $434,868) LaVella Family L.P. 163 Finley Road $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $52,878) Robert and Jennifer Evans 105 Flack Road $25,000 Nikolay and Anna Vysotsky McKenery Drive $2,000 Jeremy and Kristen Ortolona 219 Rolling Hill Farm Drive $300,811 David Paul 456 Cherry Blossom Drive $320,000 David Peters 225 Crest Ave. $122,000 James Schwarz 3 Incline St. $14,400 Free Methodist Church Monongahela PA SR 51 $2,437,500 Brian Dolfi SR 51 $199,000 Matthew Kicinski 423 W. Spring Grove Blvd. $235,000

Beatrice St. and Chestnut St. $18,000 1022 Knox Ave. $1,008 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $46,662) 422 Motheral $1,860 918 Rostraver $1,527 920 Rostraver St. $1,226 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $44,940) 1598 Summit Ave. $10,900 18 Aliquippa Ave. $1,860 by sheriff's deed. McMahon Ave. $4,600 101 Scenery Blvd. $25,000 425 Forest St. $10,000 215 S. Seneca St. $3,800 1055 Athalia Ave. $40,000 24 Colonial Drive $94,900 240 Donner Ave. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $8,568) 696 Hoover St. $9,900 302 Fourth St. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $19,908) 1404 Leeds Ave. $20,500 221-223 Reed Ave. Rear $5,700 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $25,248)

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>. Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.

$104,000 $63,000 $62,250 $140,000 $84,000 $88,000

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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HEALTH NUTRITION & FITNESS Body Fat ... Does Yours Measure Up? It’s that time of year for many eating adventures at holiday gatherings and the inevitable calorie counting during January weight-loss programs. Before becoming too focused on scale measurements take time to consider that body fat, not weight, is the best measure of fitness. Body fat is a store of energy that has not yet been used by the body. When one ingests more calories than required to perform daily functions, body fat is created. Excessive fat negatively influences physical task performance and poses a serious threat for heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, sleep disorders, arthritis, gall bladder disease, and certain forms of cancer. Here are some frequently asked questions:

Is All Body Fat Bad? There are two types of body fat, essential and nonessential. Essential body fat is responsible for body temperature regulation, optimal functioning and cushioning of the internal organs. It is an emergency energy source during an illness. Nonessential body fat is linked to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and certain forms of cancer.

What is a Healthy Body Fat Percentage? The perfect body fat percentage does not exist. It is a range because age, gender and body type affect the ideal value. Women need more than men due to demands of childbearing and hormonal functions. As we age, body fat increases. Athletes typically have a lower body fat because of training and demands of sports.

How is Body Fat Measured? Under water weighing, skin fold calipers, bio-electrical impedance and near infrared light are ways of measuring body fat. Near infrared light measuring is as accurate as underwater weighing. It is not affected by the person measuring using skin fold calipers or outside factors such as alcohol, caffeine or exercises that impact bio-electrical impedance. Athletes, dieters, gym goers and health professionals have recognized the advantages of measuring body fat. To schedule a complimentary measurement of your body fat using near infrared light technology measuring, please call Aries Athletic Club at 724-239-4771.

A New You in the New Year: Mon Valley YMCA Offers Jam-Packed January Schedule for All Ages The Mon Valley YMCA has some exciting programs lined up beginning in January. Don’t miss a beat with the start of the New Year! Exercise classes begin on land and in the water January 2nd! We have morning and evening classes and babysitting is also available. We have everything from SilverSneaker classes to Zumba, yoga, cycling and everything else in between. Work off those holiday pounds at the Y! We can’t wait to see you! Did you know the YMCA has Corporate Wellness Memberships? Have your employer inquire about starting a wellness membership today! Call Jodi at 724483-8077. January is the time to start something new. Stick to your resolution with karate classes! Learn self-defense and get a great workout, too. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-8:00 p.m. These ongoing classes are open to anyone ages 6 and over. Make new friends and gain self confidence the YMCA way! Calling all pre-schoolers! The Mon Valley YMCA will be taking registration for the 2012-2013 school year beginning in January. Registration opens for members and children currently participating in our Child Learning Center programs on Tuesday, January 3. Registration for non-members and outside students opens on February 1st. Please call the Y at 724-483-8077 for more information. Group swimming lessons begin the first week in February. Get a jump on the coming summer season early. Youth lessons are available on Monday or Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings. Sign up early, as classes fill quickly! De-stress from the holidays with a relaxing massage. The Mon Valley YMCA is proud to partner with Chaney’s Natural to offer massage therapy. Call the Y today to schedule your relaxation appointment today! Keep your little ones active all winter with Kinder-programs. Beginning the first week of February, youngsters ages 3-5 can enjoy Kinder Soccer - a fun way to learn the fundamentals of soccer, or Kinder Gym - an introduction to sports and ball handling while having a blast and being silly. Registration begins now! Join us for a fun family night! Saturday Night Live meets January 14th from 6-9 p.m. Kids of all ages can swim, play games in the gym and enjoy a snack. Get out and spend time with the family the YMCA way!

Visit us online at www.monvalleymessenger.com

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HEALTH NEWS

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Getting a Fresh Start: Mon Valley YMCA Adds New Class in January The Mon Valley YMCA is adding a new class for January to Balanced Body, their group fitness program. Fresh Start Fitness, held on Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. beginning January 4, is designed for those who are new to fitness but anxious to enjoy the health benefits of a regularly scheduled fitness regiment. Cardio Fit, held on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Fridays at 10:15 a.m., is another option for those needing a morning class. For those considering starting an exercise routine, Peggy Herforth, the Mon Valley YMCA Health and Fitness director, offers these tips: Most adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week. Adults also need two or more days of strength training a week and stretching should follow every workout with emphasis on the muscles used in the activity. Start slowly and build up gradually. Give yourself plenty of time to warm up and cool down with easy walking or gentle stretching. Then speed up to a pace you can continue for five to ten minutes without getting overly tired. As your stamina improves, gradually increase the amount of time you exercise. Work your way up to 30 to 60 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Finding time to exercise can be a challenge. To make it easier, schedule time to exercise as you would any other appointment. Meet a friend at a scheduled time each week for a fitness class to keep each other on track. Friends motivate you to get to the gym, friends make it fun, and friends can challenge you to push yourself just a little bit farther than you might if you were working out alone. Different activities (cross-training) can keep exercise boredom at bay. Cross-training also reduces your chances of injuring or overusing one specific muscle or joint. Plan to alternate among activities that emphasize different parts of your body, such as walking, water exercise, dancing, biking and strength training. Many people start exercising with frenzied zeal, working out too long or too intensely and give up when their muscles and joints become sore or injured. Plan time between sessions for your body to rest and recover. A written plan may encourage you to stay on track. An exercise journal provides accountability and a means of encouragement. By reviewing your exercise journal, you will see patterns of how your strength is affected from each workout and make the necessary changes to maximize your progress. Hiring a personal trainer can help you maximize your time while keeping you within your own limits so you don't overdo it. A trainer can also help you set goals and map out a specific schedule so you know when, how and where you'll fit in your workouts. Once you've started a program listen to your body. If you feel pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or nausea, take a break. You may be pushing yourself too hard. Starting an exercise program is an important decision. But it doesn't have to be an overwhelming one. By planning carefully and pacing yourself, you can establish a healthy habit that lasts a lifetime.

CENTERVILLE CLINICS We Provide Total Healthcare for the Entire Community PRIMARY CARE SERVICES

DENTAL SERVICES

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE

DIAGNOSTIC CARE

SPECIALTY-CARE SERVICES

Centerville Clinics is accepting new patients! We can be your Primary Care Provider.

Tap into the power of the Messenger. Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

We participate in most Managed Care programs, including Medicare and Medicaid

Call today for the location in your area or to make a convenient appointment.

724 - 632 - 6801 Visit us online at centervilleclinics.com for more information on Centerville Clinics.

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HEALTH NEWS

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VALLEY HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING CENTER JANUARY EVENTS

Zdilla Family Chiropractic Offers New Body-Shaping Technology to Clients

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, January 14. Cost will be $60.00. Class will start at 9 a.m. and finish around 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, January 31, cost $40.00. Class will be held at the Monongahela Valley Hospital at the Lombardi Education Center. Class will start at 6:00 p.m. and finish around 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 and pre-pay. Heartsaver First Aid/CPR/AED - will be held opposite Saturdays. Next class will be held Saturday, February 11, cost $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. Class starts at 9 a.m. and finishes around 1:00 p.m. The class is held at Mon Valley EMS-1001 Donner Avenue, Monessen. Students must pre-register and pre pay. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - class will begin in March 5. 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 next Healthcare Provider for BLS will be offered in March 2012. Thank you for supporting Valley Health and Safety Training Center in 2011 and for scheduling your classes. We appreciate your business and it is good to know that our communities know CPR. We have trained over 3,000 people in CPR/AED/First Aid in 2011 and look forward to doubling that in 2012. The more our communities know about CPR/AED and first aid, the more we can help one in other and help to save lives. Any business wishing CPR/AED/FA for their employees can call the training center at 724-684-9536. We would be happy to train your employees. Classes must have a least two paid students or the class will be canceled.

Dr. Michael Zdilla, of Zdilla Family Chiropractic, believes you deserve a healthier, happier new year. At his Belle Vernon office, located on Broad Avenue, Dr. Zdilla not only provides superior chiropractic care for muscle, nerve and joint pain, but also nutritional counseling, vitamin supplements, headache, stress, and sinus relief, and most recently, the Lipo-Light Advanced Sliming and Toning system. The new Lipo-Light program is the latest treatment Dr. Michael Zdilla, of Zdilla Family Chiropractic in the non-invasive body shaping market. This program uses non-painful, non-surgical, scientifically proven heat and light that will naturally slim and tone your problem areas when combined with exercise and a healthy diet. Lipo-Light has a positive effect on those areas where body sculpting can prove difficult, including the waist, hips, thighs, chin, buttocks and arms. This allows the patient to lose inches, but only where they want. “Patients have lost from 4 to 22 total inches from their waist, hips, thighs, arms and belly. Lipo-Light is safe, easy, and effective. Both men and women gain confidence while losing inches,” said Dr. Zdilla. Dr. Zdilla explained the science behind the phenomenon. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Lipo-Light stimulates the fat cell to emulsify (liquefy) the fat within the cell. Then the liquefied fat moves from inside the cell through a temporary pore formed in the cell membrane to outside the cell where it is in the interstitial space until absorbed by the lymphatic system. This results in millions of fat cells becoming smaller so inches are reduced off the waist, hips, and thighs. The fat cells are not injured in any way by this process. It is 100% non-invasive and causes no bruising, scarring, side effects or downtime. Patients can resume normal activities immediately following each treatment. “Patients actually state how they enjoy the comfortable warming sensation from Lipo-Light. Some have even used their time to take a well needed nap,” said Dr. Zdilla. Dr. Zdilla follows a standard program of 8 sessions, twice per week for 4 weeks. Services are provided at the Belle Vernon office as well as in Greentree. Dr Zdilla’s primary focus is to provide patients with the highest possible quality care. “Diet, exercise, environment and heredity all contribute to a person’s well-being. I strive to maximize the overall function of the entire body, not merely address the symptoms,” said Dr. Zdilla. “I am excited to expand my chiropractic services to include the Lipo-Light sliming and toning regimen. The new year calls for a new you!” For more information, please visit Dr. Zdilla’s website at http://zfchiro.com or contact Dr. Zdilla at 724-929-6777 or at drzdilla@yahoo.com, or stop by the office located at 540 Broad Ave. Suite 1 in Belle Vernon.

Monongahela Valley Hospital Receives APEX Award for Patient Safety Residents of the Mon Valley live in a region that offers many amenities, including a hospital that is the recipient of the 2011 VHA Pennsylvania Achieving Patient Care Excellence (APEX) Award. Monongahela Valley Hospital (MVH) recently received the APEX Award for demonstrating extraordinary levels of clinical performance in prevention of patient falls in Inpatient Units from July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011. MVH implemented a strong fall prevention strategy that encompasses a number of different interventions and targets multiple risk factors such as situations when falls are most likely to occur. To be recognized for extraordinary clinical performance in patient fall prevention, a hospital must have a composite rate lower than a top decile rate of 2.6 of all VHA Pennsylvania members for all four quarters from July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011. MVH achieved a 2.2 performance rate.

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HEALTH NEWS

MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL JANUARY EVENTS Monongahela Valley Hospital is sponsoring a variety of informative programs during January. Many of the events will be held in the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center (ECC) unless otherwise noted. INNOVATIONS IN SMOKING CESSATION – Wednesday, January 4, at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. Vasu Malepati, MD, an ear, nose, and throat specialist on staff at MVH, will discuss smoking cessation. This program is part of MVH’s Innovations series featuring physician guest speakers providing medical information to the community. To register, call the MVH Reservation Hotline at 724-2581333. CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION CLASS – Wednesday, January 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. A four-week series of prenatal education classes designed to prepare couples for the birthing process. Topics include signs of labor, vaginal and c-section deliveries, role of the labor coach, comfort measures including breathing and relaxation skills, and pain medication options. Couples will rehearse what they learn in class to help relieve anxiety surrounding the birthing experience. Classes are free to Valley Women’s Health patients, and a small fee applies to non-patients. Please call 724-258-BABY (2229) to register. STROKE SUPPORT GROUP – Thursday, January 5, at 1 p.m., ECC. The Stroke Support Group is designed for patients and caregivers to share, learn, and grow with people who can personally relate to the challenges and struggles they face on a daily basis dealing with stroke and its aftereffects. For more information, call 724-258-1455.

ister, call 724-258-1483. ARTHRITIS SUPPORT GROUP – Wednesday, January 18, at 1 p.m., ECC. The Arthritis Support Group is free and open to all persons with arthritis or related illnesses and their families. For more information, call 724-258-1321. ADVANCED CARBOHYDRATE COUNTING – Wednesday, January 18, from 9 – 11 a.m., ECC. Diabetes self-management class that focuses on carb counting with everything you need to know. Topics range from how to measure the upward drive each meal has on blood sugar to information on the glycemic index. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self-Management Training is required prior to attending this class. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of the class. To register, call 724-258-1148. MANAGING YOUR DIABETES – Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, January 24 – 26, from 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. A three-day, two-hour per day education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of classes. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1483. ADULT FIRST AID – Thursday, January 26, from 6 – 9 p.m. Adult first aid classes are offered by the hospital in conjunction with the Valley Health and Safety Training Center. The $30 fee is payable to VHSTC, and advance registration is required at 724684-9536.

RSDS SUPPORT GROUP – Tuesday, January 10, at 11 a.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.

BREASTFEEDING CLASS – Monday, January 30, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. This free class is designed for mothers who plan to breastfeed to help them feel more comfortable and confident while in the hospital after delivery and when returning home. Many props are used in this class including breast pumps. Partners and grandmothers are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229).

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES – Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, January 10 – 12, from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., ECC. A three-day, two-hour-per-day education series that focuses on diabetes selfmanagement and care. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of classes. For more information or to reg-

ADULT CPR INSTRUCTION – Tuesday, January 31, from 6 – 9 p.m. Adult CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) classes are offered by the hospital in conjunction with Valley Health and Safety Training Center (VHSTC). The $40 fee is payable to VHSTC, and advance registration is required at 724-684-9536.

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Cosmopoli”TAN” Day Spa Wishes Everyone a Happy New You Have you set your New Year’s resolution plans for 2012 yet? Looking younger in the New Year with red light therapy just might be another consideration for your list of goals. Approved by the FDA, red light therapy is a rejuvenating experience that helps users reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, and skin problems including acne and rosacea by promoting collagen growth in skin tissue. Red light therapy is UV-free; however, it can help in creating smooth, supple skin for a darker, longer lasting tan. Sessions last between 15 to 20 minutes and are recommended 2 to 3 times per week for 12 weeks. After desired results are achieved, they can be maintained by 1 or 2 red light therapy sessions per week along with proper diet, hydration, skin care and exercise. In addition to the cosmetic and anti-aging benefits, red light therapy can provide relief from chronic and acute pain and inflammation. It also assists the healing process following tendonitis, arthritis, strained or torn muscles, fibromyalgia, sprains, and nerve damage pain. Because red light therapy triggers the body’s own defenses, it treats the sources of pain directly and does not simply mask the symptoms. You can get started with your own red light therapy treatments by calling Cosmopoli”TAN” Day Spa in Ellsworth at 724-239-4771.

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Seniors

••• • • • •••••••

Upcoming Senior Tours The following tours for area seniors are now accepting reservations. For more information, call Marlene Owens at 724-258-3950. March 6-7, 2012 - The Philadelphia Flower Show. This year's theme is Hawaii, Islands of Aloha. It includes a three-hour guided tour with a local guide and lunch at Moshulu, a famous Philadelphia restaurant. A Four Diamond restaurant located at Penns Landing, it is the oldest and largest four-masted-tall ship afloat—a unique experience. June 12-13, 2012 - Lancaster, PA. See the new show Jonah with one night lodging at the Heritage Hotel with a buffet breakfast; visit Rockvale Outlets, Kitchen Kettle, Canning Company for sampling Amish Foods, and Amish Quilt Shop; and enjoy a bountiful buffet at Shady Maple Smorgasbord.

Riverside Place Announces Events for January Riverside Place, located at 303 Chamber Plaza in Charleroi, announces the following upcoming events and activities for the month of January. For questions or additional information, please call (724) 483-5800. Mondays and Wednesdays Zumba - 4:45 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. Every Wednesday Afternoon Bingo 1:00 p.m. – 3:00p.m. Every Friday Cards, Euchre 1:00 p.m. Every Saturday Euchre 6:00 p.m. Friday January 6 and 20 -Pizza and Pizza Burger - $1/slice $5 Pizza Burger and Pop. -Randy Riggle, 1 hour comedy Show. 11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon January 20 Music Friday - Bobbie Shawn. Come listen to Bobby sing to the oldies music. 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. Friday Jan 27 -Kenny and Chip oldies Music 11:00 a.m. – 1:00p.m -Speaker Leslie Wright from Primetime Health will speak on 12 tips for 2012. We also serve lunch daily at noon for a donation of $2.00

E-mail your news items to news@monvalley.com

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Free Tax Help Available to Seniors at Various Sites Throughout the Valley AARP tax-aide volunteers will prepare 2011 income tax returns for people 60 years and older and for low-income residents. Listed are the locations where these taxes will be done: • Center in the Woods, 130 Woodland Court, Brownsville - 724-938-3554 Monday - Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Center on the Hill, 100 Summit Road, Belle Vernon - 724-930-8512 - Monday and Wednesday's, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Perryopolis Sr. Center, 403 Liberty Avenue, Perryopolis - 724- 736-2250 Mondays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Donora Public Library, 510 Meldon Avenue, Donora - 724- 379-7941 Fridays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Monessen Sr. Center, 1925 Grand Blvd, Monessen - 724-684-6105 - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 12 Noon. • Rostraver Public Library, 700 Plaza Drive, Belle Vernon - 724-379-5511 Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The taxpayer MUST make an appointment and bring last year's tax return, all of their 2011 tax documents and the original stamped paid 2011 property tax receipts. The completed returns will be filed electrically with the IRS and State. At the Monessen site, we have two preparers who complete paper returns which you will have to mail. The following types of tax returns cannot be completed at these sites: rental, depreciation, farms, business, and amended returns from previous years and any complex return, These need to be completed by a paid professional. The volunteers have been trained and certified by the IRS and the PA Dept. of Revenue are able to complete your federal, state, and property tax/rent rebate forms. If you have any questions call, Vera Klein 724-379-5797. You can start making your appointments after January 1, 2012.

SilverSneakers® Open House Slated at Mon Valley YMCA The Mon Valley YMCA will be hosting an Open House on Tuesday, January 31 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for all SilverSneakers® eligible members. The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is the nation’s leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. The program offers physical activity, health education, and social events for Medicare-eligible and group retiree members, usually those age 65 or older, but, in some cases, those of any age deemed disabled and receiving Medicare. Members receive a fitness center membership at no cost and access to our signature SilverSneakers® and Mon Valley YMCA balanced body exercise classes. Tours and raffles will be available. For more information, please call 724-483-8077 or stop in to see if you qualify today!

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ENTERTAINMENT.... PUMP UP the

VOLUME!

by Mandy Withers-Koz lowski

JANUARY HEY ANDY SPORTSBAR AND LOUNGE 724-258-4755 1221 W Main St, Monongahela 6 - Stone Horse 7 - The WeedRags 13 - Black Dog Hollow 14 - Black Magic 20 - Whiskey Outlaws 21 - Gil Snyder Combo 27 - TBA 28 - A-Z Karaoke Thursdays - DJ Barto

Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot!

RINKY DINKS ROADHOUSE

ROCKIN' WILLIES ROADHOUSE

724-228-1059 339 Amity Ridge Road, Amity Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ The WeedRags 8PM-midnight

724-745-8844 2476 Washington Road (Rt. 19 South), Canonsburg Tuesdays - Jam Night with the Jam Band. All singers and musicians welcome

RIVER HOUSE CAFE 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi 19 - Mystery Dinner

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@monvalley messenger.com

Recent Local Death Notices Anderson – William J. Jr., 55 of Charleroi died Friday December 2. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Barkley – Ruth Darlene., 80, of Monongahela died Monday November 28. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela. Bartman – Stella Ann., 81, of Monongahela died Thursday November 17. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela. Brown – Shirley Ann., 74, of Monongahela died Friday November 25. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela. Caprol - Irene H., 89, of Monongahela died Friday November 4. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela.

Crompton – Katherine Meredith., 80, of Columbus Ohio, Formerly of New Eagle died Tuesday November 1. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela. Dean – Raymond Martin., 82 of Monongahela died Tuesday November 29. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela. Guzanick – Helen., 90, of Greensburg died Saturday November 26. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela. Hnatnik – Frank Jr., of Monongahela died Saturday December 3. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. Lascala – Isabelle R., 89, of Monongahela died Sunday December 18. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Martello – Arno H., 93, of New Eagle died Tuesday December 13. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Restivo – Frances., 92, of Monongahela died Monday November 28. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela.

Pelligrini – Ronald., 39, of Monongahela died Friday December 2. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Signorini – Alexander M., 93, of Monongahela died Saturday November 26. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Rach – Marlene Louise., 76, of Monongahela died Monday November 14. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela.

Spence – J. Albert Jr., of New Eagle died Monday November 14. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela.

Radcliffe – Betty Elaine., 82, of New Eagle died Saturday November 12. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc in Monongahela.

Tomlinson – Dora A., 87, of Monongahela died December 19. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Recaldini – Agnes., 92, of Monongahela died Friday November 4. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

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Classifieds

arty P e at Priv Ads

E FRE

SERVICES • EMPLOYMENT • AUTOMOTIVE • MERCHANDISE • PRIVATE PARTY ADS FREE • ANNOUNCEMENTS • REAL ESTATE & RENTALS

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING THAT WORKS! Reach over 30,000 local readers

CALL THE MON VALLEY MESSENGER TODAY AT (412) 249-8177. OR E-MAIL YOUR CLASSIFIED AD TO CLASSIFIEDS@MONVALLEYMESSENGER.COM REAL ESTATE, RENTALS, HELP WANTED, AND A L L OTHER BUSINESS AD RATES – $8.00 (minimum) for up to 15 words, plus .35 cents for each additional word. Bold Type - .25 cents per word. Box - $1.50

-------- ADOPTION --------ADOPTION: Patty & Steve, Active, Creative Catholic Couple Hope to Connect with You, Birthmother, For Adoption Plan. Legal Expenses Paid. Let’s Text/Talk 973-477-9886 _______________________________________________________ PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert. You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6296 _______________________________________________________ PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID.Abby's One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6292, 24/7 Void/Illinois _______________________________________________________

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 _______________________________________________________ WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI 1970-1980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ 1000, H2-750, H1-500, S1-250, S2-250, S2-350, S3-400 CASH. 1-800-772-1142, 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners. com _______________________________________________________ TOP CASH FOR CARS, Any Car/Truck, Running or Not. Call for INSTANT offer: 1-800-454-6951 _______________________________________________________

Reach 20,000 potential customers in the Mon Valley communities! Advertise your business in the Mon Valley Messenger. Call for more information at 412-249-8177. 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 800-4507227. _______________________________________________________

--------- AUTO DONATIONS ----------

-------------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ------------

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. 888475-1825 _______________________________________________________ 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 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! 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 _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation! Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up. 800771-9551 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: 1-888-4162330 _______________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK or SUV to Childhood Leukemia Foundation today. Tax Deductible, FREE towing, fast, easy Process. 877-754-3227 www.mycarfordonation.org _______________________________________________________

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 _______________________________________________________ SEEKING PROFESSIONALS (FDIC Insured) Home Business Mobile Banking Platiform. Paid Daily. Will train, a must see. Take 15 min to hear about it 216649-1011 _______________________________________________________ Start Earning Right Now! $1000’s Weekly For Placing Ads Just Like This One. Get PAID DAILY! Call 1-800-818-4395 www.wow20000.com _______________________________________________________

--------- 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 412-417-5948 and ask for Charlotte. _______________________________________________________ 2004 Jeep Liberty - Sport 4x4 drive, new tires, new inspection, and garage kept. 85,500 miles, asking for $7500 OBO. For more information, call 724344-7238. _______________________________________________________ 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 412854-5844. _______________________________________________________ 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 412-417-5948. _______________________________________________________ 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. _______________________________________________________

-------------- BUSINESS TO BUSINESS ------------

-------------- 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. 724348-6837. _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________

-------------- EMPLOYMENT -----------DRIVERS

We Will Train You! First Transit has positions available for CDL and Non-CDL Drivers. CDL DRIVERS should have Class B, Passenger and Air Brake endorsements; starting wages at $12.00 per hour. NONCDL DRIVER full time positions also available. Competitive wages starting at $8.50 to $10.00 per hour. • FT Benefits - health insurance w/vision, paid holidays, paid vacations, etc. • Paid Training • Must have valid PA Driver's License • Pre-employment physical & drug screen required • Must have a good 5 year driving history Please call Roy or Gary at 724-746-4342 or apply at:

First Transit, Inc. 2439 W Pike St, Rear Building Houston, PA 15342 Please call Kathy or Bill at 412-833-3300 or apply at:

First Transit, Inc. 4780 Library Road • Bethel Park, PA 15102 Drug free workplace EOE MECHANIC

Fleet Mechanic

National Company We are now accepting applications for a full time Mechanic with basic tools, Inspection license, and a good driving record (CDL preferred). Excellent benefits including health insurance, holidays, vacations. Paid Training. Experience with Fords and/or fleet vehicles a plus. Pre-employment physical and drug screening required. ASE bonus program. Please apply in person, Mon- Fri, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or call and ask for the Maintenance Manager at:

First Transit

-------------- EDUCATION ------------

2439 West Pike Street • Rear Building • Houston, PA 15342 724-746-4342 Equal Oppportunity Employer

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6 - 8 weeks. ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma. Get a Job! FREE Brochure 1-800-264-8330 www.diplomafromhome.com _______________________________________________________

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. _______________________________________________________

January 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————— 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. Experienced Hair Dresser Needed FULL or PART Time • 724-344-4656 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 724-9296855. _______________________________________________________ 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.

CLASSIFIEDS

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. _______________________________________________________ EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS WANTED FOR OUR VAN DIVISION: Heavy Run Between Wisconsin to McConnellsburg, PA, Flex home time. 99% NoTouch 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 www.TTItrucking.com _______________________________________________________ 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 (void in SD) _______________________________________________________ Mystery Shoppers Needed Earn up to $150 per day Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 888-912-6028 _______________________________________________________ PROCESS Mail! Pay Weekly! FREE Supplies! Bonuses! Genuine! Helping Homeworkers since 1992! Call 1-888-302-1522 www.howtoworkfromhome.com _______________________________________________________ PHONE ACTRESSES FROM HOME Best Pay-Outs, Busy System Weekends a Must! Land Line/Good Voice 1-800-403-7772 lipservice.net 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 -------------

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 724228-5514. _______________________________________________________ 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.

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.

HELP WANTED! Experienced P/T Cook AND P/T Waitress The Hunting Lodge • 724-348-7984

--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS -----------

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 _______________________________________________________ Need Fast CASH? Short term loans up to $1500 deposited into your bank account OVERNIGHT! Call for quick approval. 877-290-0052 _______________________________________________________ CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY REMOVE IT! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys. Minimum $5000 in debt to qualify. Call 1-866-652-7630 _______________________________________________________ AVOID BANKRUPTCY! Settle debts for less.Call if more than $15,000 of credit_______________________________________________________ card debt. (800) 699-9740

Feel the difference with Nature’s Sunshine Products. Healthy Opportunities! www.mynsp.com/jrobbins or call: 412-708-7329 _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ ****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! 1-888-796-8870 _______________________________________________________ TAKE VIAGRA? SAVE $500! 100mg,/Cialis 20mg. 40+4 FREE, PILLS. Only $99.00 Discreet. 1-888-797-9024 _______________________________________________________ TAKE VIAGRA/CIALIS? SAVE $500! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only $99! Call now & Get 4 BONUS Pills FREE! Your Satisfaction Guaranteed! 1-888-7779242 _______________________________________________________

-------------- ITEMS FOR SALE -----------Art by J. Girardet signed 1882 framed original print only $85. Call 724-2223973. _______________________________________________________ Coat - Men's size 38, all weather, fur type lining and collar, light brown, new. $20. Call 724-929-3891. _______________________________________________________

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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 724-929-3891. _______________________________________________________ Penguin vs.Flyers tickets! (2) last game of year! Best offer! Text to 412-7805998. _______________________________________________________ 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. _______________________________________________________ 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. _______________________________________________________ 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. _______________________________________________________ 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 MATTRESSES T-$299 F-$349 Q$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY LIFETIME 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. _______________________________________________________ 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 412-9797050 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 _______________________________________________________ Motorcycles Wanted – CASH PAID! Select watercraft, ATV, snowmobiles. FREE National Pickup – NO HASSLE! 1-800-963-9216 www.SellUs YourBike.com. www.USAPowerSportsMI.com Mon-Fri 9am-7pm CST. _______________________________________________________

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 _______________________________________________________ WANTED DIABETES TEST STRIPS Any kind/brand. Unexpired up to $22.00. Shipping Paid Hablamos espanol 1-800-266-0702 www.selldiabeticstrips.com _______________________________________________________ YEARBOOKS "Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks1900-1988. yearbookusa@yahoo.com or 972-768-1338." _______________________________________________________

----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-825-7233. _______________________________________________________ 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 email kuban231@comcast.net. ACR METAL ROOFING - GO GREEN - tax credits agricultural,commercial,residential. Building packages, top quality, low cost, FREE literature. acrmetal.com, 800-325-1247 _______________________________________________________ Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $49 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 866-752-5908 _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ HEATING BILLS! Save up to 50 percent off your next heating bill. Advanced Portable Infrared iHeater® Heat 1000 sq. ft. for about 5 cents an hour! Free Shipping! Call 1-888-435-0688 _______________________________________________________ Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 Percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www.PersonalCreations.com/Bliss or Call 1-888-867-5127 _______________________________________________________ PROFLOWERS- Looking for a Holiday Gift that will really impress? SPECIAL OFFER 20 percent off qualifying gifts over $29 from ProFlowers! Offer ONLY available at www.proflowers.com/Vase or call 1-888-380-2449 _______________________________________________________ RED ENVELOPE - Give great. Find the perfect holiday gift that tells a story. Shop early and save an additional 20 percent. Visit www.redenvelope. com/Spirit or Call 866-690-0745 _______________________________________________________ SHARI`S BERRIES - Order Mouthwatering Gifts! 100 Percent satisfaction guaranteed. Hand-dipped berries from $19.99 s/h. SAVE 20 percent on qualifying gifts over $29! Visit www.berries.com/berry or Call 1-888-770-1867 _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ Wrap up your Holiday Shopping with 100 Percent Guaranteed, delivered-to-the-door Omaha Steaks - SAVE 67 percent PLUS 2 FREE GIFTS! 26 gourmet favorites ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 888-904-8728 or www.OmahaSteaks.com/gift65, use code 45102EMS _______________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 4 only 25x36, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Must Move Now! Selling for Balance Owed! Free Delivery! 1-800-411-5869 x 42 _______________________________________________________ IMMEDIATE OPENINGS. Private Security agents needed for escorting clients to special events, providing in-home security services. Specialized Training provided. Call Now! 1-615-228-1701 www.psubodyguards.com _______________________________________________________

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GET TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES on a NEW television show from the producers of AMERICAN IDOL. Contact us at FinalOfferCasting@gmail.com or 818-480-7178 _______________________________________________________ DIRECTV $29.99/mo $0 Start Costs! Free HBO CINEMAX SHOWTIME STARZ! FREE HD/DVR! Free Installation! We’re “Local” Installers! 800-3554203. _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ FREE GAS! Receive $300 Gasoline Savings! Gasoline Stimulus program Provides $300 gas savings to participants of driving survey. Local Stations–Major Brands! Call Now 877-898-9029 _______________________________________________________ Get TV & Internet for UNDER $50/mo. For 6 mos. PLUS Get $300 Back!select plans. Limited Time ONLY Call NOW! 866-944-0906 _______________________________________________________ CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS- up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. FAST payment. Ask for Emma 1-888-7767771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ **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 _______________________________________________________ DIRECTV – up to $31 off/mo.! 150+ Channels & FREE SHOWTIME for 3 mos -_______________________________________________________ ONLY $29.99/mo for one year. New customers Call NOW! 866-397-2788 Get trained to fix jets at campuses coast to coast for jobs nationwide. Financial aid if you qualify. Call AIM (888) 686-1704 or visit www.fixjets.com _______________________________________________________ GET YOUR DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.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. _______________________________________________________ EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance.Computer available.Financial Aid if qualified.SCHEV certified. 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 _______________________________________________________ EnjoyBetterTV 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 _______________________________________________________ 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! 1-866-944-0906 _______________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY. Instant offer: 1-800-864-5784 _______________________________________________________ ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com _______________________________________________________ WORK ON JET ENGINES - Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866)453-6204 or visit www.fixjets.com _______________________________________________________

------------- 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.

CLASSIFIEDS

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. Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $49 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 866-752-5908 _______________________________________________________ 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 ---------New Zealand White Rabbits - $25 each for pet or for meat. Call 724-2392196. _______________________________________________________ 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 412-296-1999. _______________________________________________________ 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 high-traffic 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 724-483-1600 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 _______________________________________________________

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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; 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. New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negotiable. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773. HOUSES FOR SALE - UPSTATE NY FARM SACRIFICE! 40 ACRES - $139,900. Old farmhouse, barn, pond, 900 ft. stream front, adjacent to County Land! Owner must sell by year’s end! Call (888) 738-6994 NOW! _______________________________________________________ 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 _______________________________________________________ ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment. Call now 800-250-2043. _______________________________________________________

------------ SERVICES ----------Private, guitar or drum lessons available in the Mon Valley area. Lessons can be taught in the comfort of your own home, or at our location. Begin learning the songs you really want to learn the first lesson! Learn tips and tricks tabs will not teach you. Lessons are only $18 per session. Please contact Chad at 724-747-8722, or email cecampsey@gmail.com. BABYSITTER / NANNY For Summer - Let your kids sleep in & play in the neighborhood. American Red Cross Certified, Experienced, Reasonable, References. Kelsey: 724-348-6528. _______________________________________________________ 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. 724-3486837. _______________________________________________________ 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) 831-9991 _______________________________________________________

----------- TIMESHARES ---------------Ask yourself, what is your TIMESHARE worth? We will find a buyer/renter for CA$H NO GIMMICKS JUST RESULTS! www.BuyATimeshare.com Call 888879-8612 _______________________________________________________

----------- 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/Paradise Resort. 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. _______________________________________________________ WEEKEND GETAWAY! Deep Creek, Maryland. 5 Bedroom Home for Rent. *Ski Wisp*, Call Dave at 412.427.3691 for more details! _______________________________________________________

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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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) Grille 51 Hoss’s Steak House Jake’s Pizza Just-A-Tavern Keystone Bakery Martins Flowers & Shrubs Nebby’s News Ollie's Bargain Outlet PNC Bank, Broad Avenue Ponderosa Restaurant Port Royal Village Roadside Restaurant Rostraver Drug Store Rostraver Public Library Sheetz, Inc. Snoball’s Hair & Tanning 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 Landromat 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 Redneck’s Bar & Grill 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 Tenth Street Pharmacy

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 DUNLEVY Highway Appliance Mon Valley Fitness Center FAYETTE CITY Strickler’s Auction MONESSEN Alex’s on 6th Restaurant Buzzy Byron’s Citizen’s Bank City of Monessen Municipal Bldg. Douglas Education Center 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 St. Vincent DePaul Society Torn Page Union Cleaners Union Pharmacy Valley 1st Community Federal Credit Union

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 Dierkens Pharmacy 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 Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce

Monongahela Area Library 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 Perryopolis Senior Center Randall’s Restaurant SMITHTON Jack’s Super Market Smithton Truck Stop / Pit Stop Cafe 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.

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