South Hills Mon Valley Messenger January 2016

FREE! JANUARY 2016 Vol.12,Issue 7 Read us online at Community Christmas at Monessen Library Page 13

messengerpaper.com Mystery Stone of Peters Creek Found by Historians Page 22

West Mifflin VFW 914 Announces Teacher of the Year Page 28

Charleroi Announces Plans for 3rd Annual Hoodie Hoo Day

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he 3rd Annual Hoodie Hoo Day, hosted by the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Saturday, February 20, 2016 in downtown Charleroi.

Activities begin at 11 a.m. and the group ‘Hoodie Hoo!’ shout will occur precisely at noon to chase any remnants of winter completely away. The shout will occur regardless of severity of weather, and if necessary, some activities will be moved indoors.

Northern Hemisphere Hoodie Hoo Day is an official holiday trademarked by wellcat.com and Charleroi is believed to have the largest crowd on record performing the shout in 2014. It always occurs on February 20. “We are excited,” said Deb Keefer, Chamber Director. “Because February 20 falls on a Saturday this year, we expect our attendance will explode because of area high school and college students who want to participate.”

The planning committee is now developing a promotional and activity plan for downtown businesses and will be seeking sponsors. If anyone would like to be a sponsor, be involved in the planning, or volunteer, please contact the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce at 724-4833507.

Hoodie Hoo Day in downtown Charleroi

World Championship Horse Owned by Finleyville Residents

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t the World Championship and Grand National Morgan Horse Show in Oklahoma City this October, Finleyville resident Kristin Rozen and her horse, SSLLC Boom Boom Boom, claimed the World Championship. Buzz (his barn name) won two titles with trainer Mary Carlton riding – ‘Grand National Champion Ladies Hunter Pleasure Geldings’ and ‘World Champion Ladies Hunter Pleasure.’ It was 20 years ago that Kristin herself won the 1995 World Championship in Oklahoma with her other horse, Rockridge Hot Shot. Kristin and Dr. Joel Rozen operate the boarding facility in Finleyville, Timber Oaks Farm.

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LOCAL NEWS

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‘Christmas in the Park’ Held in Monessen

Pictured are (l-r) Maria Lucy, one of the Monessen High School carolers; Karla Spangler, Amphitheater Committee Secretary; Matthew Shorraw, Amphitheater Committee President; Dillion Shash, Amphitheater Committee Vice President.

Evelyn Yatchyshyn and Donna Koltash, both on the Amphitheater Committee, serve hot drinks and cookies and greet people.

The Committee sings Christmas carols.

By Jill Brown The Monessen Amphitheater Committee held Christmas in the Park for the community at Monessen City Park on Sat., December 12, 2015 from 4 - 5:30 p.m. The party was free and everyone was welcome. It featured caroling, Christmas tree decorating by the children, a raffle, music, and children’s ornament making. Free cookies and hot chocolate were being served despite the unseasonably warm weather that day. Beautiful hats and gloves were available on a table for giveaway.

Dillion Shash, Vice President of the Amphitheater Committee who was in charge of the event said, “I thought it would be nice to do something for the kids, so we organized this.”

The festivities concluded with the arrival of Santa (Gary Painter). When asked if he liked being Santa, he replied, “I better, I’ve been doing this for 45 years. I got my first start at the Salvation Army.”

The Christmas in the Park was the last event by the Amphitheater Committee for the year; they will resume activities in the summer and are already finalizing a schedule of events and sponsors for next year. The Committee thanks everyone who made the year 2015 a success for them. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/MonessenAmphitheater.

Kaelyn Balentine, age 2, is shy with Santa as she sits on his lap.

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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO JANUARY 5 WEEKLY TUESDAY NIGHT BINGO - St. Francis of Assisi Church Finley Hall. 7:15 p.m. for the “Early Bird” games and 7:30 p.m. for the regular bingo. Admission is $6 for 20 regular games and 5 specials. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cancellations due to weather announced on WPXI and KDKA TV. JANUARY 7 PRESCHOOL STORY HOUR – 1-2 p.m., St. Elizabeth Elementary School will hold a preschool story hour open to the public. Any child that is 3 years old and older and potty-trained is welcome to attend! We will have great stories, followed by some fun activities. Children can be dropped off after signing in with one of the preschool teachers. Parents can stay, but it’s not necessary. If you have any questions, please call Sue Lydon at 412-881-2958 or email slydon@st-elizabeth.org.

JANUARY 8 HAPPY HOUR - 4:30-7:30 p.m., Repipi Winery, 93 Van Voorhis Drive, Monongahela. Live music and food for purchase.

FRIDAY NIGHT GROCERY BINGO - Doors open 5:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m., Bunola VFD, Bunola River Rd., Bunola. Cash jackpot. Food and drinks available.

JANUARY 9 MANTLE HOUSE MISSION - join us in the renovations of the buildings.

Hours are 9-3 p.m. Lunch is provided.

All are welcome. Pease call if planning to attend. For more information please call 714-872-1800 or to be added to our email list send to: mantlehousemission@yahoo.com.

OLDIES DANCE - White Oak American Legion Post #701, 2813

Capital St. in White Oak. 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. A 50/50 will be offered. Admission is still only $5 per person. All proceeds benefit veterans programs. Music from the ‘50s and early ‘60s by Candy and Mike. For more information call 724984-6611.

JANUARY 11 BELLE VERNON AREA REALITY TOUR - 6-8:30 p.m., Belle Vernon Area High School.

Pre-registration is required for all participants. Visit www.realitytour.org. For information email bellevernonarearealitytour@ gmail.com. Please arrive by 5:45 p.m. to give time to check in.

JANUARY 12 SOUTH HILLS FRIENDS OF THE MONTOUR TRAIL MEETING 6:30 p.m., South Park Township Community room, located at 2675 Brownsville Road, South Park, PA. The

South Hills Friends are responsible for maintenance of the Montour Trail between Library and Clairton.

Individuals interested in the Montour Trail are encouraged to attend.

Additional information concerning the trail, including South Hills Friends contact information, may be obtained on the Montour Trail web site www.montourtrail.org. Questions may be directed to info@montourtrail.org.

SOUTH HILLS COIN CLUB - 8 p.m. at the Bethel Presbyterian Church, 2999 Bethel Church Rd. in Bethel Park.

All members and the general public are invited. This month’s program TBA. A 50/50 will be offered and kids prizes to be awarded. Applications are now being accepted for membership. For more information please call 724-984-6611.

WEEKLY TUESDAY NIGHT BINGO - St. Francis of Assisi Church

January 2016 ————————————————————————————————————————— Finley Hall. 7:15 p.m. for the “Early Bird” games and 7:30 p.m. for the regular bingo. Admission is $6 for 20 regular games and 5 specials. Doors open at 6 p.m. Please note: Cancellations due to weather announced on WPXI and KDKA TV. MVH PRESENTS “INNOVATIONS IN WIDE-AWAKE SURGERY” – Lombardi Education Conference Center, Monongahela Valley Hospital, 6 p.m. The program and parking are free. Light refreshments will be served. To register, call 724-258-1333.

JANUARY 14 SENIOR LUNCH - 12 p.m., Venetia Community Center, 800 Venetia Road.

All seniors are welcome. Suggested donation is $2. Blood pressure screening is conducted from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. A speaker or music is provided after the luncheon for your information and pleasure. Bingo is also offered by our organization. To reserve your meal or for more information, please call Erma Grego at 724-941-6956.

DINNER FOR A DOLLAR - 5-7 p.m., Community of Christ, 3472 South Park Road, Bethel Park. We will be serving delicious spaghetti, mouth-watering bread and rolls, fresh garden salad, and luscious desserts. We accept donations of $1 per person or $3 per family. This is humbly accepted, but not required. No reservations needed. Questions? Call Debbie at 412-833-6357.

SOUTH PARK WOMEN’S CLUB – Board meeting, 7 p.m. in the South Park community room.

CHARLEROI LODGE #615 FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS MEETING - 7:30 p.m., in the Masonic Lodge located at the corner of 7th and McCain in Charleroi. Program for this meeting to be announced. All members are encouraged to attend. For more information call 724-984-6611.

JANUARY 15 FRIDAY NIGHT GROCERY BINGO - Doors open 5:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m., Bunola VFD, Bunola River Rd., Bunola. Cash Jackpot. Food and drinks available.

JANUARY 16 MURDER MYSTERY DINNER Rockwell’s Red Lion Restaurant, Elizabeth, PA. “The Death of Figaro” and buffet dinner. $50 per person inclusive. Reservations: 412-384-3909 JANUARY 17 SALSA DANCE LESSON AND DANCE - 6 – 7 p.m. dance lesson-Salsa then dance from 7 - 10 p.m. Brian Lee, Pittsburgh’s Best of the Best Pro Dance Instructor/DJ will play the best in Swing/Jitterbug, Oldies, Latin, Line dances and many more. Singles welcome-no partner required. Haymakers, 153 Main St., New Eagle, PA. $12 includes free hour dance lesson and snacks. Info call 724-351-0219.

MON VALLEY COIN CLUB – 2 p.m. at 303 Chamber Plaza in Charleroi, PA. All members and the public are invited. Program for this meeting TBA. Applications are now being accepted for membership. A 50/50 will be offered and prizes will be awarded for kids. For more information, call 724-984-6611.

More Event Listings on page 6

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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO JANUARY 18 SOUTH PARK WOMEN’S CLUB General Meeting, 7 p.m. in the South Park community room. Our speaker is Pat Golden, owner of Pat Golden Estate Sales.

JANUARY 22 FRIDAY NIGHT GROCERY BINGO - Doors open 5:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m., Bunola VFD, Bunola River Rd., Bunola. Cash jackpot. Food and drinks available.

JANUARY 19 SOUTHWESTERN REGISTERED NURSES CLUB - 9:30 am, Hamilton Presbyterian Church, Bethel Park.

Speaker is Julian Gray. His topic is “Elder Law.” All registered nurses are welcome. Contact Pat at (724) 229-7577.

ART SHOW – 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Off the Wall Arts, 532 McKean Ave, Charleroi.

Young Professionals Mon Valley, along with local and student artists, will raise funds for the Harvest Bounty program by holding an art sale. All art work will be created and sold by these artists. A $5 donation cover is required. Food and/or a donation are encouraged. The event will also include live entertainment and artwork by artists, a Chinese Auction from local businesses and light appetizers and refreshments provided. Sponsorship are still available. For more information , email John Barkey jjbarkey1979@ yahoo.com. Please R.S.V.P. by January 20, 2016.

WEEKLY TUESDAY NIGHT BINGO - St. Francis of Assisi Church Finley Hall. 7:15 p.m. for the “Early Bird” games and 7:30 p.m. for the regular bingo. Admission is $6 for 20 regular games and 5 specials. Doors open at 6 p.m. Please note: Cancellations due to weather announced on WPXI and KDKA TV.

JANUARY 23 OLDIES DANCE - White Oak American Legion Post #701, 2813 Capital St. in White Oak. 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. A 50/50 will be offered. Admission is still only $5 per person. All proceeds benefit veterans programs. Music from the ‘50s and early ‘60s by Candy and Mike. For more information call 724984-6611.

JANUARY 26 WEEKLY TUESDAY NIGHT BINGO - St. Francis of Assisi Church Finley Hall. 7:15 p.m. for the “Early Bird” games and 7:30 p.m. for the regular bingo. Admission is $6 for 20 regular games and 5 specials. Doors open at 6 p.m. Please note: Cancellations due to weather announced on WPXI and KDKA TV.

JANUARY 29 FRIDAY NIGHT GROCERY BINGO - Doors open 5:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m., Bunola VFD, Bunola River Rd., Bunola. Cash Jackpot. Food and drinks available.

JANUARY 30 JOHN MCMILLAN PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE - 9 a.m. to noon.

Parents may register children for the 2016-2017 classes, visit the classrooms and meet the teachers. For further information, please call Pat Folino at 412833-4704.

SEND US YOUR EVENT LISTINGS

Email: news@messengerpaper.com

Monongahela Valley Hospital now offers weight loss surgery.

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You? Thursday, Jan. 7, at 6 p.m.

Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center

Thursday, Feb. 4, at 6 p.m.

Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, room 120

Thursday, March 3, at 6 p.m.

Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center

Reservations required, 724-258-1333 ome meet Surgeon Hiram Gonzalez, M.D. at our free information session to learn how weight loss surgery can help those struggling to lose 100 pounds or more.

Monongahela Valley Hospital offers three types of minimally invasive bariatric surgery at the Carroll Twp. campus through its new Weight Control and Wellness Program.

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LOCAL NEWS

Elizabeth Forward Area Community Chorus Puts on Quite a Show

By Michelle Taylor On December 4th, 5th, and 6th, 52 adults and 21 juniors came together and put on an incredible show at the Elizabeth Forward High School.

For 50 years, the Elizabeth Forward Area Community Chorus (EFACC) has gathered as a group and routinely EFACC members practice before the big show. organizes a concert for the locals. This year, with addults from various communities and kids from six different school districts including Belle Vernon, Elizabeth Forward, McKeesport, Norwin, and South Allegheny – and with the youngest member being only 6 years old – the group put on a concert titled "HARK"!

Singing in tune, with their angelic voices blending together in Christmas spirit, they sang holiday classics such as "Do You Hear What I Hear," "The First Noel," "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," and "The Little Drummer Boy," while keeping the interest up with more unheard of songs such as "No Time To Diet," "Santa's Crazy Reindeer," and "Santa Claus Boogie."

The EFACC also asked each person to bring a canned good to be donated to a local food bank and the admission of $10 per adult and $8 per child/senior will benefit a local charity. In addition to the concert, there was a concession stand with baked goods from the chorus members and hot chocolate and coffee for sale.

The EFACC also provided a 50/50 raffle and a basket raffle which contained snack items. These raffles were held at each performance. The money collected from these fundraisers will go toward the general bank of the chorus.

Charleroi Area Historical Society Pleased with Progress Made on Historical Coyle Theater The Charleroi Area Historical Society, Inc. is pleased to start the new year with a BIG thank you to the Friends of the Coyle (FOTC), who continued the Art Deco painting and repair work at The Coyle in Charleroi to help meet Boro notifications regarding the three-building project area.

The efforts of the FOTC have been very evident and most recently have improved further the front façade of The Coyle itself. The ultimate purpose, mission and intent of this project is to restore, preserve, refurbish and Friends of the Coyle continue reutilize this very historic building improving the façade of the located in the middle of Charleroi’s Coyle Theater in Charleroi.

National Registered Historic District as an arts, culture and entertainment center in the mid-Mon Valley.

For more information about the CAHS, Inc., please call 724-483-4961 or visit https://www.facebook.com/charhistsoc/.

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LOCAL NEWS

St. Thomas A' Becket's Prayer Group Celebrates 25 Years

The St. Thomas A' Becket Prayer Group gathered to celebrate 25 years.

Rev. Daniel Maurer is pictured in the back row, center.

The Saint Thomas A' Becket Prayer Group celebrated 25 years of fellowship and miracles this September. The milestone was marked with a celebratory Mass presided over by parish pastor, Reverend Daniel Maurer. A covereddish luncheon followed the Mass and was attended by numerous past and present participants. Sixteen members of the original group have gone to eternal reward and were remembered with a candle vigil in their honor.

Each Wednesday, more than a dozen men and women faithfully gather at St. Thomas A' Becket to pray the rosary; engage in spiritual and personal reflection; and provide prayer intentions for all those in need. This weekly ritual began in 1990, shortly after the parish's Director of Social Concerns, Sister M. Judith, was given a message during a Pilgrimage to Medjugorje, which included a meeting with those who bore witness to the apparitions of the Blessed Mother. The message was to begin a prayer group. However, before

she was able to pass this revelation along, Sister Judith was approached by two parishioners who provided their own personal accounts of divine inspiration and a subsequent desire to facilitate a prayer group.

That same year Sister Judith, these women and a group of dedicated parishioners established the St. Thomas prayer group with a mission to uplift their parish and community through the power of prayer.

From critical matters of dire health to divine intervention for troubled marriages and failed attempts to conceive, this group has confidently brought their appeals to God, who has faithfully supplied what can only be described as a series of miraculous answers-"Miracle babies", reconciled families, and even full recoveries from terminal illnesses. Many Wednesday meetings have come to include "thank you" visits from those who have witnessed the power of God working through this small group.

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The Residence at Hilltop Donates Furniture to City Mission The residents of the Washington City Mission benefited from the generosity of the Residence at Hilltop after new furnishings were delivered to the Carroll Township assisted living facility. The Residence had ordered new furniture shortly before the fire at the Washington, PA shelter on June 9, which caused significant damage to dormitories, Pictured are (l-r) Bill Owens, maintenance/van driver; offices, medical facilities and a Larry Matsik, director of environmental services; and chapel in the main building.

Jack Timlin, maintenance, displaying the full truck After hearing about the before it heads to the Washington City Mission to be unloaded. tragedy, a staff member at the Residence suggested they donate their gently used furniture to the City Mission.

“We saw what the City Mission lost with this tragedy and knew that we wanted to help,” said Walter Young, administrator of the Residence at Hilltop. “I wish we could do even more. The City Mission does so much for others and we felt this small gesture would help to show our support of their efforts and our appreciation for everything they do for our community.”

The furniture was transported to its new home at 84 West Wheeling Street, where the City Mission residents will make good use of it for years to come.

The Residence at Hilltop is a personal care facility which provides cost-effective assistance in a safe, residential environment for those who need help with daily living, but do not require 24-hour skilled medical treatment. It is a subsidiary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. The Washington City Mission is a Christ-centered rehabilitative homeless shelter that provides food, case management, biblically based counseling and lifechanging programs to help each person seeking their aid become a healthy, productive member of society.

Elizabeth Township 8th Grader Puts on a Light Show for Charity

By Michelle Taylor Mitchell Zombek, 14, of Elizabeth Township and an 8th grader at Elizabeth Forward Middle School, along with his family, hosted their second annual Holiday Light Show for Make-A-Wish. His dad Don, mom Amy, and sister Chloe all helped out to string up 20,000 lights that dance to Christmas music. Visitors are asked to tune into 102.9 to enjoy the full effect of the display. They keep their show going every night until January 4th. The Zombek family donates all funds received from visitors to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Last year, they donated $3,000, and this year they will finish with over $7,400. The family also bakes 60 dozen chocolate chip cookies that they donate to the same foundation.

On any given night, they have on average of 100 cars show up to watch the light show that entertains the street. If you would like to visit the light show or would like to make a donation, the address to visit or send donations to is 214 Williamsburg Drive, Elizabeth, PA 15037.

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LOCAL NEWS

NEWS FROM THE DONORA HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND SMOG MUSEUM Calling All History Majors or Professionals Donora will be hosting the Veterans Day Parade in 2016. The Society will be setting up special veteran exhibits, presentations and programming before, during and after the day of the parade. This could be a unique experience or resumebuilder for a current history major or professional who might like the experience in setting up exhibits and/or programming. The programming may be similar to what we did during the hosting of the Heinz History Center’s travelling Civil War exhibit last March/April. You can do as much or as little as you’d like. Our staff can help guide you through the process.

Please contact the Society to discuss your ideas and interests.

Winter Reading The Donora Historical Society is selling a limited number of copies of the new Stan “The Man” Musial book titled Stan Musial: Baseball Hero. This is part of the “Notable Missourians” book series and is ideal for the collector or youth reader as a Christmas present. These books are geared for young adults. The society is able to sell these books at a 40% discount from the cover price or $20.

Other Stan Musial books are also available for purchase as authored by New York Times writer George Vecsey and Donora native Wayne Stewart, as well as Monessen native and author Ralph E. Stone’s book, Diary of a First Street Rambler, that recounts his experiences of growing up in Monessen as a youth.

Another book recommended for those long winter nights is After the Fog by Kathleen Shoop, a book of historical fiction centered around fictional character nurse Rose Pavlesic during the historical 1948 Smog event in Donora.

Calling All Volunteers!

If you have an interest in history, research, archiving, fundraising, working with students of all ages, working on some amazing projects, or working with people from all over the world, we may have an opportunity for you at the

Donora Historical Society. We are always on the lookout for individuals who can help promote and advance the Society.

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Advanced Cancer Care — Here in the Valley

Artifacts And Memorabilia Sought The Donora Historical Society is always accepting any artifacts or memorabilia related to Donora’s past. If you have anything that you would be willing to part with to tell others about the history of our town, we will preserve those items for generations to come.

Some examples of items that we accept are: school yearbooks, photos, clothing, uniforms, letterman’s jackets, cheerleading and band items, and pennants; post cards; church-related items such as photos and church building pieces; business and merchant advertising items and photos; steel mill photos, tools, work clothes and small machinery; little league and midget league uniforms; family genealogies; or architectural pieces or signage from buildings. Pickup can be arranged. If you are unsure if we would want it, just ask.

Game Film Available The Donora Historical Society is taking orders for copies of the 11/17/66 (class of 1967) football game between Donora High and Monongahela High. Originally on 16mm film, the game was recently converted to DVD. Monongahela was the victor at 19-7.

Proceeds will continue the effort to convert other football games that were played from 1963 to 1971 featuring Donora and Monongahela as well as Ringgold playing other high schools, such as Charleroi, Rostraver, Belle Vernon, Monessen, Clairton, Elizabeth Forward, Brownsville, and Mon Valley Catholic.

There are many factors to consider when selecting a cancer center.

A

t Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Charles L. and Rose Sweeney Melenyzer Pavilion and

Regional Cancer Center, the answers are yes, yes and yes! The second-largest,

Do they offer the latest therapies?

Will they provide comprehensive, compassionate care?

Is it close to home?

free-standing cancer center in Western Pennsylvania offers some advanced therapies that are not even available at the larger teaching facilities. Care is provided by a skilled medical team that is composed of friends and neighbors that you know and trust. And, it’s all offered right here in the Valley.

For Further Info…

If you have additional questions about the subjects mentioned above, the society, museum, meetings or possibly volunteering, stop by or email DonoraHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or by calling 724-823-0364 and leaving a message. Or visit us on the web at www.DonoraHistoricalSociety.org

Learn more at mvhcancercenter.com

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LOCAL NEWS

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Jefferson Hills Celebrates the Holidays in Style The holiday celebration sponsored by the Borough of Jefferson Hills Council, Jefferson Hills Library and Mayor Jan Cmar on November 30 was a magical evening at the Borough’s Municipal Center. Families enjoyed a dozen glimmering Christmas trees and decorations; visits with Santa; special time with Mrs. Claus as she told stories of her life in the North Pole with Santa; great children’s crafts; and tasty refreshments. A big thank you goes out to all of the Borough groups who helped to make this celebration a memorable event for our families.Merry Christmas from all of us at the Borough of Jefferson Hills! We wish you a peaceful, safe and happy New Year.

Pictured are (l-r) Declan and Braden Concannon as they check out the Minion tree.

The TJ Jaguar stopped by to help Library staff member Jean Mann check out a few books.

Jackson Kilinsky and his mom, Bethany, check out the ornaments on the Darth Vader tree.

Pictured are (l-r) Tyla Kynar, Arlee Kynar, Azzy Colditz and Arabella Colditz, who enjoyed posing in front of the Barbie tree.

Hailey Krawczyk and Megan Rozanski share their tree creations.

Could Alaina Kuch be any cuter dressed like Santa?

Young Professionals Mon Valley Raising Funds for the Harvest Bounty Program For many children in our region, the only meal they receive is the one fed to them while they are at school. The Harvest Bounty program was created to feed these children. This is an initiative with the Greater Washington Co. Food Bank.

Later this month, the Young Professionals Mon Valley, along with local and student artists, will be raising funds for the Harvest Bounty program by holding an art sale. All art work will be created and sold by these artists.

Mark your calendars for Friday, January 22, at Off the Wall Arts, 532 McKean Ave. in Charleroi from 6 - 9 p.m. Come out and support the effort.

A $5 donation cover is required. Food and/or a donation is encouraged.

The event will also include live entertainment and artwork by artists, a Chinese auction from local businesses, and light appetizers and refreshments are included. Sponsorships are still available.

For more information on how to apply and guidelines, please email John Barkey at jjbarkey1979@yahoo.com. R.S.V.P. by January 20, 2016.

Visiting Scholar to Discuss Domestic Terrorism And Effective Tactics at PT Library The Peters Township Public Library will present ‘Domestic Counter-Terrorism: Lessons Learned from the Afghan War’ with Dr. Jibey Asthappan on Monday, January 7, 2016 from 7-8 p.m. at the library. Dr. Asthappan is an assistant professor and the Director of National Security at the University of New Haven. He was selected the 2015 J. Robert Maxwell Visiting Scholar, Washington and Jefferson College.

Dr. Jibey Register to attend this free program by emailing proAsthappan grams@ptlibrary.org or call 724-941-9430.

Events such as the San Bernardino and the Denver Planned Parenthood shootings bring to light the importance of addressing terrorist threats at home.

Lessons learned from the Afghan War can help us address a terrorist threat within the United States. Dr. Asthappan will identify best practices from both counter-insurgency and anti-gang techniques. Application of those strategies to communities in the U.S. wil be reviewed. A discussion will follow; the public is encouraged to seek how their specific community can benefit from these operations.

Dr. Asthappan began his career in 1999 as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician for the United States Air Force. After the 9/11 attacks, he was deployed with some of the first troops in Afghanistan serving as a bomb technician protecting Air Force planes and bases from (IEDs) Improvised Explosive Devices as well as chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons. His expertise in the areas of program evaluation and policy analysis have allowed him to publish on the personal encounters and experiences of renowned experts in the field of criminal justice. Dr. Asthappan obtained his doctorate in justice, law, and society from American University. He currently teaches courses on topics ranging from criminology and counter-terrorism, network security and cryptography.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Monongahela Valley Hospital Welcomes the 2015 Holiday Season

Valley Garden Club Holds Annual Fundraising Luncheon

A lighted balloon release, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas carols, Jasmine from Aladdin, colorful decorations and a 7-foot-tall Frosty the Snowman entertained patients watching from their windows as well as nearly 1,000 community members who gathered for Monongahela Valley Hospital’s (MVH) 31st Annual Light-Up Night on Nov. 23.

“I look forward to this event every year because it brings us together as a community, said Louis J. Panza Jr., MVH’s president and CEO. “Everyone here lives in different areas but the one thing you all have in common is that you trust Monongahela Valley At Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Annual Hospital for your medical care.”

Light-Up Night celebration, 6-year old The evening’s grand moment came Jaxson Welsh (left) and 5-year old Kage as two lucky children flipped the giant Tillman flipped the giant light switch to light up the holiday decorations throughlight switch, lighting the two-story tree out several acres of the hospital’s camand several acres of decorations pus. MVH President and CEO Louis J. throughout campus. Randomly chosen Panza Jr. led the countdown. from among MVH employees’ children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews ages 5 to 10, the boys who flipped the giant switch were: Jaxson Welsh, age 6, son of Jason and Karissa Welsh of Elizabeth Township. He is a first-grader at Greenock Elementary. Jaxson’s grandmother, Fern Martinez, is an MVH miscellaneous clerk.

Kage Tillman, age 5, son of Tiffany Rands, tray aide, Nutrition and Food Service. They live in Charleroi. He is in kindergarten at the Charleroi Area Elementary Center.

Charleroi High School’s Show Choir, under the direction of Ms. Laura Piecknick, entertained the crowd before the lights were turned on. Members of the school’s marching band led Santa and Mrs. Claus onto the campus.

Throughout the evening, members of the Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. sold baked goods and hot dogs.

Adding to the burst of colors were lighted necklaces worn by practically every child in attendance. The necklaces were donated by Joseph’s Nursery & Garden Center in Monessen.

Visit MVH’s Facebook page to view the countdown video and photo album from the event at www.facebook.com/Monvalleyhospital.

Valley Garden Club held its annual fundraising luncheon in November at the Mon Valley YMCA. The theme for the program was "A Christmas Welcome" which consisted of creating a front porch and decorating it for the holidays.

Special guests were Haddie Weber, District 10 Director of the Garden Club Federation of Pennsylvania, and Vina McLeod Rudolph, District 10 Assistant Director.

A fresh green garland for the door and three fresh green wreaths were created

by Mary Jane Martucci. Two urns were brought for each side of the door, one filled with fresh greens, pine cones, plastic apples, and twigs, and the other was an artificial tree, which was decorated and designed by Mardell Page.

The last demonstration was a mailbox swag created by Janice Yeaton. This also could be used as a table centerpiece. It was made from a 3' artificial green garland and decorated with red mesh ribbon, sprayed gold pine cones, plastic apples, and large Christmas bulbs.

Two six-foot artificial trees donated by Evelyn Parent were placed at the sides of the porch and were decorated by Angie Raitano. All of the designs were enhanced by large red bows, which coordinated with the decorations for the porch.

All items were raffled at the end of the program. Valley Garden Club members prepared all the delicious salads for the luncheon.

Gently worn jewelry and handmade craft items along with baked goods were sold. There were six raffle baskets and a 50/50 raffle ticket.

Members also enjoyed a Christmas luncheon at the Willow Room in December.

For more information concerning Valley Garden Club, please contact Pam Gregor at 724-930-7151.

Email your event listings to news@messengerpaper.com

Innovations in Medicine Gerson Florez, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon, will discuss “Innovations in Wide-Awake Surgery”

Tuesday, Jan. 12 6 p.m.

Monessen City Park Amphitheater Committee Plans Spaghetti Dinner The Monessen City Park Amphitheater Committee will be selling spaghetti dinner tickets throughout the month of January. Tickets will available for purchase at the Monessen Public Library. Tickets are $10, nonrefundable, and can be redeemed at Felicia's Restaurant, 450 Schoonmaker Ave. Monessen, any day in February, except Valentine's Day. One ticket includes spaghetti, meatball, salad, bread, and pop/water. Proceeds fund the Monessen Amphitheater Committee and the free events that they provide to the City of Monessen and surrounding communities.

Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center Monongahela Valley Hospital Free program Light refreshments and free parking.

To register, call

724-258-1333

MM/WH-MVM/12-15

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LOCAL NEWS

Canon-McMillan Student Takes Cadet Command of Local Squadron During Awards Banquet Washington County Composite Squadron 601 of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) celebrated the 74th Anniversary of CAP with a Cadet Change of Command Ceremony and Awards Banquet on December 1st, 2015.

Cadet CMSgt Zachary Keyes of Canonsburg assumed command of the squadron and Cadet 1st Lt Collin Page of Washington made his final remarks as outgoing commander. Cadet Page was also promoted to 1st Lt and awarded the Community Service Award. This award is given to members who have completed 60 hours or more of community service. Page has gone above and beyond that requirement having already dedicated over 120 hours to his local community.

When asked what community service means to him he replied, “Community service is giving back to our local community in payment for what we take from it. Without us giving back, the community would starve for help to replenish its resources.”

A number of other achievements were also awarded to various squadron members during the ceremony. C/2d Lt Zachary Kagle of Burgettstown was presented with the General Billy Mitchell Award. Kagle was also awarded the Airforce Association Squadron Cadet of the Year.

C/TSgt Jeremy Soyring of Canonsburg achieved his Eddie Rickenbacker Achievement and was promoted to C/TSgt. C/SrA Joshua Sheppard of Washington had the honor of receiving the Cadet of the Year Award, Keyes was awarded the Cadet NCO of the Year, and Soyring was awarded Senior Member of the Year. Squadron “Of the Year Awards” are given to recognize members who have shown outstanding leadership and continued dedication at the squadron level.

The following cadets were recognized at a smaller promotions ceremony held at the squadron in November: C/A1C Caleb Heckler of Marianna received the

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Eagle Scout Project Supports Troops

David Corbin with his donations to Operations Troop Appreciation.

The Cadet Change of Command C/1st Lt Collin Page salutes the Commander as he relinquishes command.

Left to right: Captain Nancy Parker, C/TSgt Jeremy Soyring, C/1stLt Collin Page, C/CMSgt Zachary Keyes.

Cadet CMSgt Zachary Keyes of Canonsburg

General "Hap" Arnold Achievement, C/MSgt Daniel Salai of Wind Ridge received the Charles A. Lindbergh Achievement, C/SrA Joshua Sheppard of Washington received the Mary Feik Achievement, and C/1st Lt Raeann Silassy of Canonsburg received her promotion to 1st Lt. As a whole, the Washington Composite Squadron received the Quality Cadet Unit Award, a national recognition given to cadet units that display strong program fundamentals.

Squadron 601 currently has 35 members, 19 of whom are cadets between the ages of 12 to 21 and is commanded by Capt.

Nancy Parker of McMurray. The group meets from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday at the Flyers Club located at the Washington County Airport. For more information please visit www.pasquadron601.org.

Visit us online at www.messengerpaper.com

By Kyra Bergman Seventeen-year-old David Corbin is using his Eagle Scout project to support our troops.

An Eagle Scout project is when a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer in the Boy Scouts of America demonstrates leadership of others while performing a project for the benefit of his community.

The local youth spent between four and six weeks collecting needed items to be sent to American troops overseas, including 6 days outside Walmart and a day at Rite Aid in Bethel Park. Corbin also received donations from a long list of local businesses, VFWs, and American Legions from Bethel Park, Pittsburgh, Castle Shannon, McMurray, and Canonsburg, among others.

David Corbin with members of Troop 215.

After using some of the donated funds to buy items specifically requested by troops, Corbin gave a total of $3,242.45 and a mountain of packed boxes of items to Operation Troop Appreciation, located in Century III Mall.

When asked why he chose Operation Troop Appreciation as his charity, Corbin replied, “I wanted to do a project to support the people who help protect us. OTA is a five-star highly rated non-profit that gives 98% of all income to our service people!”

Corbin also stated, “I wish I could see the faces of the veterans in Jordan, Afghanistan, and South Korea as well as all the others who will benefit.” All items, including food items, soaps, games, and many more, were shipped directly to troops.

City Mission Residents Give Back to Community After Difficult Year City Mission may have had a difficult year after a devastating fire on June 9 destroyed their three men’s dormitories, kitchen, and dining hall, but that isn’t stopping the homeless shelter’s residents from thanking the community that helped them through their troubles. “The staff and residents have a number of community activities planned,” said Dr. Sally Mounts, Director of Development. “We feel it’s important to give back, and to thank the people in the region who have been so good to us.”

On Monday, December 21, City Mission residents gave a program for the Washington High School student body, singing carols, talking about the effect of the fire on the Mission, and giving a short talk about homelessness. They also presented a plaque to the school for their support this year---displaced City Mission residents used the school’s cafeteria as a makeshift homeless shelter for three months last summer, and the school’s football team and band raised over $3000 for the Mission in a citywide can donation campaign.

City Mission residents are also doing caroling at both Presbyterian Senior Care and Kade Nursing Home during the Christmas season. They have baked cookies and made toiletry bags for the elderly, and will be doing craft activities as well.

“Some of the Mission residents doing the community outreach are the ones who slept in Wash High’s cafeteria on borrowed Red Cross cots last summer,” said Mounts. “They wanted to pay it forward.”

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LOCAL NEWS

Community Christmas at Monessen Library Makes Christmas Special For the Kids

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WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS

By Jill Brown It was all about the children this year at the Monessen Public Library’s annual Christmas Party on Sat., December 5, 2015, from 2 – 5 p.m., as gifts and activities were geared to youngsters. The event began with a prayer, as everyone held hands, praying for people to leave there feeling good. Leading the prayer was Pastor Tim Burgan, who had a very large church group there to give of their In charge of Library Christmas Party were time. (l-r) Lucille D’Alfonso, Delmar Hepple, The Christian Center Church in Belle Mary Jo Smith. Mary Jo holds Vernon, with the Full Potential Project, granddaughter Lilyana. served pizza and other food and provided games, toys, puzzles, raffles, etc., all for the kids. The director of The Full Potential Project is Lisa Lyons.

Associate Pastor Gary Snodgrass of the Christian Center Church said of why they helped out with the event, “It’s just a good way of showing the love of God to people. Our church is all about community.”

Pastor Tim Burgan of the Christian Center Church had appeared on Santa has his hands full with these two Cornerstone TV for 32 years on “His children Antonio (left) and Lorenzo Place.” He retired from the program 2 Casale. They were there with years ago. Pastor Burgan said, “We did grandparents Cindy and Doug Stants. an outreach at the Civic Center; then Mary Jo (Smith) contacted us, and we decided we wanted to work together with the city of Monessen.”

Epiphany Church in Monessen also donated some items such as children’s hats, gloves and scarves to the Amphitheater Committee, to be given to the kids at the party.

The following were also featured at the library: crafts; tree-decorating; music from a band; singers; face-painting; and pictures with Santa. A band called “Hear Tonight” played Indie pop rock, and Jessica Kovach from Monessen sang beautiful, melodic Christmas songs.

The festivities drew to a conclusion with children decorating the Christmas tree and then enjoying s’mores at an outdoor fire pit. Finally, there was the lighting of the tree and caroling. The children had a party with much-needed gifts and lots of fun!

University Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists is now accepting new patients at our McKeesport office.

Suman Golla, MD, FACS Dr. Golla earned her medical degree from the University of Maryland. She completed a general surgery internship at UPMC and her residency in the UPMC Department of Otolaryngology. Dr. Golla is board-certified in Otolaryngology and is an associate professor of otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

In addition to general otolaryngology, Dr. Golla treats sinus and nasal allergy, pediatric ear, nose, and throat problems, and snoring and sleep apnea issues.

Bridget C. Hathaway, MD Board-certified in Otolaryngology, Dr. Hathaway completed her medical degree and residency at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She is a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology and Dysphagia Research Society. She is an assistant professor of otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and has a special interest in the study and treatment of swallowing disorders.

Ryan S. Marovich, MPAS, PA-C Ryan Marovich received his master’s degree in physician assistant science from Gannon University. He is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. He specializes in managing patients with otologic disease processes as well as vestibular and balance disorders. He also specializes in general ENT care.

To schedule an appointment at University Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists, or for more information, call 412-784-5400.

University Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists UPMC McKeesport 500 Hospital Way Suite 401 Painter Building McKeesport, PA 15132

The Christian Center Church group (the Full Potential Project) with Pastor Tim Burgan, pictured second from the left.

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LOCAL NEWS

All-American Tree Displayed at Charleroi’s Maple Creek Distributors Honors Veterans Charleroi ALA Unit 22’s Sgt. at Arms Elaine McGaughney is part owner of Maple Creek Distributors in Charleroi and came up with the idea of an All-American Tree – a fantastic way to honor our veterans. The tree sits inside her business and is the Christmas highlight that is creating a giving heart in many. Each customer who has put a poppy on the tree has made a donation for veterans programs. It displays Americanism and expresses thanks for their service.

Elaine and husband Joe are well-known veteran supporters of the Charleroi American Legion Post 22 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 22. Please take a minute to visit their Facebook page for Maple Creek Distributors or stop at their business, 158 Lincoln Ave Ext., open 7 days a week, to see this phenomenal tree.

Thank you, Maple Creek Distributors, for another fantastic way to support our veterans! God bless our veterans, nation, and community.

Rostraver Woman’s Club Installs New Member, Celebrates 50 Years as Federated Club On December 2, 2015, the Rostraver Woman’s Club happily welcomed a new member. Tami Brazon of Rostraver Township was installed as a new member at the Back Porch during their annual holiday party. Beata Herold was Mrs. Brazon’s sponsor, and Club President Tamira Spedaliere conducted the ceremony. The ceremony commemorated the General Federation of Woman’s Club celebrating 125 years of being an organization and Rostraver Township being a federated member for 50 years in 2015.

Pictured are Tamira Spedaliere, Tami Brazon and Beata Herold.

Membership is open year-round to women who wish to work to make a difference in their community.

The next meeting of the Rostraver Woman’s Club will be held at 7p.m. on February 2, 2016 at the Fells Methodist Church. At the February meeting members will be voting on art projects. These projects vary from painting, photography, crafts to writing. Local children are encouraged to submit art work, photography, poetry and short stories to the Rostraver Woman’s Club before February 2nd. If you are interested in joining our membership or would like to submit a project, please contact a member of the Rostraver Woman’s Club.

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Senator Camera Bartolotta Visits the Residence at Hilltop It was almost as if she were attending a family reunion when Senator Camera Bartolotta recently toured the Residence at Hilltop. Making her way from the foyer to the dining room, she cheerfully greeted a number of residents, including Dolores Mascara, widow of former U.S. Representative Frank Mascara and longtime friend of the Bartolotta family; Michael “Chummy” Lignelli, Donora’s former mayor; and Marge Farr, a retired Monessen English teacher and former president of the Monessen Teacher’s Union. It wasn’t until she noticed Betty Walt Young listens as Senator Huzway, who was the first babysitter for Bartolotta and retired schoolteacher the senator’s daughter, that she was Marge Farr discuss education. moved to tears. The senator even paused to take a “selfie” with Mrs. Huzway to share with her daughter after the visit.

Sen. Bartolotta was visiting the Residence at Hilltop at the invitation of Walter Young, who is the administrator of the Carroll Township personal care community and a member of the Board of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA).

“It is very important for our legislators to be able to put a face on long-term care,” said Mr. Young. “As issues come up in the legislature, we want to serve as a resource for Sen. Bartolotta.”

During her visit, the senator toured resident rooms, the Aviary, Nickelodeon theatre and the newly furnished dining room. As she walked the halls, Sen. Bartolotta reminisced about her own family members who had lived at the Residence.

“This is a nice place to be,” the senator said. “It is really one of the very best.

It’s beautiful here.”

Also participating in the tour were PHCA staff Brandon Smeltzer, who serves as director of Personal Care and Assisted Living, and Zach Shamberg, director of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs. They joined the senator and representatives from the Residence’s management staff for lunch in the Community Room.

Following the meal, Sen. Bartolotta addressed the group. “As you can see, I know quite a number of people here and it is especially important to me to see that they receive exceptional care. I know that this facility is one of the very, very best available.”

The Residence at Hilltop is one of the largest personal care homes in the area.

The staff helps residents maintain their independence and dignity balancing comfort and security.

To learn more about the Residence at Hilltop, contact Walt Young at 724-2588940 or wyoung@residenceathilltop.com.

‘Dinner For a Dollar’ Resumes in January at Bethel Park Community of Christ Our ‘Dinner for a Dollar’ dinners are resuming this month! Enjoy a spaghetti dinner, and help your budget, too. We will be serving delicious spaghetti, mouthwatering bread and rolls, fresh garden salad, and luscious desserts. We accept donations of $1 per person or $3 per family. This is humbly accepted, but not required. No reservations are needed. Dinner this month is on Thursday, January 14, 2016 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Community of Christ, 3472 South Park Road, Bethel Park. We are located between Drake Road and Sunset Drive. Questions? Call Debbie at 412-833-6357. All future dinners are held the second Thursday of each month except July and December.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Finleyville American Legion Post 613 Keeps Christmas Merry

Post 613 Legionnaires deliver new toys for deserving children to St. Francis Church Ladies of Charity. Pictured are (l-r) Back Row: ALA Secretary /Treasurer Joyce Mayers and SAL Adjutant, Bob Jones Front Row: Legionnaire Peggy Sanders; Alice Hakos (St. Francis Ladies of Charity); Father Robert Boyle; and John Koller (Legionnaire).

By Paul Chasko The American Legion’s Morrison Ritchie Post completed a successful 2015 toy drive.

Thanks to generous contributions from the Post members and the Finleyville community, well over $1,400 in new toys were delivered to the St. Francis Church Ladies of Charity to provide a merry Christmas for deserving youngsters.

The Ladies of Charity saw that each deserving child received a special Christmas gift. “It’s our way of paying forward for what our community means to us,” said Legion Post Vice Commander Bob Jones. “We are a service organization, first and foremost.”

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West Newton Public Library Seeks Volunteers, Members, and Donations Make a New Year’s resolution – The West Newton Library needs your help! We are a non-profit library with no state funding and we need as much help as you can give us. The library will be kicking of its annual membership drive this January. If you would be interested in helping the library with a donation, please give us a call at 724-972-3229.

We also are in need of individuals that would be able to donate some of their time each week to help out at the library. If that is not your cup of tea, we also are looking for volunteers to help us out with planning our fundraising activities for 2016. We are looking for volunteers of all ages, so if you would like to help out in the community, please consider giving some time to the West Newton Public Library!

2016-2017

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LOCAL NEWS

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PETERS TOWNSHIP RECREATION CENTER UPCOMING EVENTS Mantle House Mission Resale Store Hosts After-Christmas Sale; Plans Building Renovation Day Mantle House Mission, a nonprofit, Christ-centered transition home for homeless young males ages 18-24 years old. Shop at the Mantle House Mission Resale Store, located at 132 South Water Street in West Newton, where all proceeds go towards assisting our young residents. Stop in for our after-Christmas sale – Christmas items are 50% off. Additionally, on January 9th, groups will join us in the renovations of the buildings. Hours are 9-3 p.m. Lunch is provided. All are welcome. Please call if you are planning to attend.

Be sure to visit the new bookstore located in the back where the children’s room was once located. Christian fiction and nonfiction, history, cookbooks, travel, sports, biographies, health and beauty, and children’s books are included. We also appreciate your donations. We can not accept TVs, computers, scanners or printers.

Visit us on Facebook, join the group and get $1 off of $10 for any regular item (this does not include Christmas sale items). For more information, please call 714872-1800 or, to be added to our email list, send an email to: mantlehousemission@yahoo.com.

Peters Township Park and Recreation Department is offering the following classes at the Community Center. Pre-registration required. Registration starts on December 21 for SESSION 1 (8 weeks in January/ February ). Classes begin January 3 unless otherwise stated. All classes can be viewed at www. peterstownship.com on the Parks and Recreation web page.

Easy Ways To Register: Online: www.peterstownship.com Walk in: cash/check/Visa/ MasterCard accepted Mail in: check and registration form Family Movie Night Minimum 10 – Maximum 40 Baby, it’s cold outside! Warm up with a movie at the Peters Township Community Recreation Center. Snacks and refreshments will be provided; just bring along a pillow or blanket. Check our website to find out the movie selection prior to the event. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required.

Date:Friday, January 15, 2016

Time: 6:30 p.m. (movie begins at 7 p.m.)

Location: Community Recreation Center, Peterswood Park Snack Fee: $3 resident / $5 non-resident Deadline: January 13 or until filled Preschool Class: Let It Snow!

(Ages 3-6) Minimum 6 – Maximum 20 Explore winter through a story, craft, and games! Dance like a snowflake, have an ice cube race, and make a special project to take home with you. Watch your little one learn about the winter season through this fun and interactive class!

Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the class. Pre-registration required.

Date:Wednesday, January 20, 2016 Time: 11 a.m. – Noon Location: Community Recreation Center, Peterswood Park Fee: $5 resident / $8 non-resident (per child) Deadline: January 18 or until filled

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NEWS FROM THE MONESSEN HERITAGE MUSEUM The Monessen Heritage Museum will be closed through January 5, 2016 for the Christmas break. It will reopen on Wednesday, January 6, 2016. Hours will be Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., weather permitting.

The “Riverboat and River” exhibit at the Museum, 505 Donner Avenue, will be ending in early January. Make arrangements to visit and see the importance of steamboats on the local economy in bygone years. Boat building was an important local industry and the transportation of people and goods by river was a vital source of commerce.

The spring exhibit at the Museum will feature photos and items that represent “Old Time Days” of Monessen. Anyone willing to donate or loan material for the exhibit is asked to contact the museum (724) 684-8460 or stop by during reg-

ular hours.

The annual fund drive and membership renewal is underway…here’s a reminder to renew your membership! Gift memberships make great holiday gifts! Single memberships are $15 per year with family memberships priced at $20. A business membership is $50. Membership is based on a calendar year and included four issues of the “Valley Historian” newsletter. Fund drive donations are used to operate the museum and plan future projects. Donations for the Building Fund go toward the renovation of the Museum Annex, which will provide additional display and event space and a permanent Monessen exhibit.

Google “Greater Monessen Historical Society” and check out our Facebook page and webpage. Keep abreast of events and see photos of previous ones.

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LOCAL NEWS

Welcoming New Patients

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First United Methodist Church in Belle Vernon Has ‘Clothes 4U’ Pictured are (l-r): Linda Morgan, Rose Stewart, Carol Zelenski, and Edie Popik, four of the seven volunteers who work hard at the church’s clothing ministry.

Elizabeth Reisinger, D.O. Dermatologist Board certified with 15 years of expert, compassionate care in general and cosmetic dermatology 1029 Country Club Rd., Suite 201 Monongahela, PA 15063

By Jill Brown All major insurance plans accepted

For an appointment, call 724-565-4575 option 1

MM/MK-MVM/3-15

Clothes 4U operates out of First United Methodist Church, under Pastor Ken Jones, 200 State St., Belle Vernon, in the church basement, and if you have a need for clothes, it’s certainly worth the trip. Importantly, the clothes, new or gently used, are free for the taking, but you may also give a good-will offering.

Visitors will be given a bag to fill with selections as they browse the area.

The church basement is open every Tuesday from 9 a.m. - noon and 9 a.m. 2 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month. If there is a big influx of clothes, they will stay open weekly.

Unfortunately, due to inclement weather, Clothes 4U closes in January.

However, for an emergency, such as a fire leaving people without clothing or if a person is without a winter coat, you may call the church, and the place will open. They will resume regular operation hours the second Tuesday in March, just in time for that much-needed spring wardrobe.

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

Carol Zelenski noted, including herself, there are seven volunteers, and the group has been with the ministry since September of last year. They are always hard at work, organizing and sorting donations, which are very much appreciated. The clothes fill the church basement, and sometimes even the customers lend a hand with the work.

Zelenski said she decided to do this “because I thought there was a need in the Valley. We recycle newspapers, so why can’t we recycle clothes? There is especially a need for kids’ clothes, which go very quickly.”

She continues, “We’re not in it for the money. All the ladies are strictly volunteers. We meet people from all over, a lot of beautiful, nice people. Clothes 4U is welcome to everyone.”

If you would like to help out this worthy ministry and drop off clothing in good condition, please call the church office at 724-929-4696. They accept donations year-round and look forward to seeing you for shopping in the spring!

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Let's Talk Real Estate

by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner

Are You a Smart Home Buyer?

The more you know about the home-buying process, the more money, time and effort you'll save.

Here are some questions to help you: 1. Which matters more: being pre-qualified for a mortgage or pre-approved? Make sure you’re preapproved and have a letter to prove it. Pre-qualification is just an estimate of what the lender thinks you can afford. The pre-approval letter assures you and prospective sellers that you can obtain a mortgage.

Without it, they may not consider your offer.

2. True or false? When buying a home "For Sale

By Owner" you can't use a Realtor® as your buyer's agent. This is false! Most “FSBO” sellers will accept buyers' agents and may even agree to pay the buyer’s agent compensation.

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3. How much should you expect to pay for closing costs? In addition to a down payment, budget an extra 3% to 8% of the purchase price to cover costs at settlement. These usually include the loan origination fee, any loan discounts, title insurance, government recording charges, transfer taxes, an initial deposit for the escrow account, and services that you or the lender pay for. It is also possible in certain circumstances to ask the seller to contribute toward those costs.

4. Does the title insurance you're required to buy in order to get your loan protect you or the lender? The title insurance you're required to purchase in order to secure your loan is for the lender’s protection, not yours. It shields the lender in case a problem with the property's title arises (such as prior claims of ownership, unclear wills, unpaid taxes and easements). Purchase an owner’s policy for very little additional expense and insure yourself in the same way.

5. How much will a home inspection typically cost? Anticipate paying on average between $300 and $400. That fee may vary among inspectors and sometimes on the age, size and construction of the house.

When you make an offer on a home, make it contingent on a satisfactory home inspection. In a market where buyers have some advantage over sellers, you may be able to use the inspector's report for further price negotiations if the property needs any significant repairs.

6. How long will a typical home inspection take?

Craft Show Set for March 5 in Belle Vernon A Craft Show will be held on Saturday, March 5 at the Center on the Hill in Belle Vernon from 9:00 AM until 2:00 PM. The craft show will also include a Chinese Auction, Bake Sale and lunch. Admission is FREE. Tables for vendors and crafters are available starting January 9 for just $15 per table. To register for a table, or for additional information, please call Pat at 724-929-6366. Center on the Hill is located at 100 Summit Road, Belle Vernon, PA 15012.

Since you will attend the inspection, allow for 1? to 4 hours, depending on the home inspector and the size and scope of the property. If a radon test is requested, the canister remains in the property for a few days.

Keep in mind that it may take a few days for the inspector to complete the written reports.

7. How do you know if you will be required to purchase mortgage insurance? If your down payment on a home is less than 20% of the price, you will be required by your lender to pay for mortgage insurance. This protects the lender if you default on your loan.

8. As a new homeowner, what costs can you deduct from income when you file your federal taxes? In the past you probably took the standard deduction when you filed your federal income taxes.

Once you own a home, itemizing may make sense and save you a lot on your tax bill. In the year you buy a house, you can write off discount points paid by you or the seller on your behalf when you took your mortgage! You also deduct the interest on the loan paid during the tax year and the real estate taxes, too.

Check with your tax preparer about the status of deducting the mortgage insurance premiums you paid.

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

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Mystery Stone of Peters Creek Found by Local Historians Finleyville historians Leonard Marraccini and Larry Gallant, members of the Monongahela, Peters Creek and South Park Historical Societies, have located an ancient monolith that once stood on the banks of Peters Creek, a tributary of the Monongahela River.

The engraved stone once stood five feet high and weighed a ton. It was discovered by a railroad construction crew in 1894, was loaded on a flatcar and delivered to Isaac Yohe, an amaMr. Marracinni poses with the present fragment. teur archaeologist in Monongahela.

The stone was moved at least three times in the ensuing years and wound up in the possession of the Carnegie Museum in 1932. Unfortunately, the bottom half of the stone was broken off at some point and its location remains unknown. The top portion was again moved in 1951 to the Washington County Historical Society’s Madelaine Garden where it remains today.

In addition to two engraved crosses on the stone, the bottom part of the figure appears to be a frame surrounding a recessed area which might have contained a plate.

Pundits of the 1890s and early 1900s insist that the stone was a territorial marker left by the French Celeron expedition of 1749. But historical evidence indicates that the French expedition came down the Allegheny River from Lake Erie and continued down the “forks of the Ohio” (present-day Pittsburgh) to the Mississippi, never entering the Monongahela River or Peters Creek. They buried lead plated to mark their territory at various places along the rivers.

So, if not the French, who created the enigmatic stone found on Peters Creek?

Marraccini and Gallant are trying to locate the missing portion of the stone and are attempting to ascertain the stone’s composition to find if it is native stone or may have been brought from elsewhere. They are also planning to investigate the original site of the find in an attempt to locate the missing object from the “frame.” Their meticulous researches could possibly change local history.

The enigmatic “Copper Plates from Peters Creek” were also found in this area by Isaaac Yohe in 1890. The Peters Creek Historical Society is planning a walking tour of the creek in the spring to ascertain the possible existence of other artifacts and is looking for volunteers to take part in this expedition. Interested parties, please leave a message at lar7436@aol.com.

Special thanks are given to Mr. Clay Kilgore, executive director of the Washington County Historical Society and Dr. Amy Covell, senior archaeologist at the Carnegie for their invaluable research assistance.

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LOCAL NEWS

Elizabeth Township Hosts Annual Light-Up Night

Has Santa been naughty this year?

Officer Novacek is checking his list twice.

The Elizabeth Forward Youth Athletics made their appearance in the parade.

Candelore Barking Beauties dog mascot, Northwest Bank, and some girl scout troops.

After the parade came the countdown to the lighting of the Christmas trees.

Once inside, children could make ornaments which included reindeer clothespins or a foam snowman. Then, patrons headed over to the garage, where there were Santa and Mrs. Claus pose for a picture with the cookies, beverages, a magistaff of Elizabeth Township. cian, free stockings stuffed with all kinds of goodies, a DJ

By Michelle Taylor with dancing elves, and a free picture On Thursday, December 3rd, with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

For the adults, there were raffles for a Elizabeth Township celebrated Christmas with their annual Light-Up microwave, lottery tree, and gift cards.

Night, a tradition for more than 20 There was also a gift giving tree for famyears. With over 200 children and ilies in need and Mrs. Claus read 'Twas many adults in attendance, there was the Night Before Christmas.

The expenses for the event were gensomething for everyone.

The night started off with a parade led erously covered by donations from by the EFHS Marching Band, who were Elizabeth Township businesses and resfollowed by various local idents. The Board of Commissioners fire/police/EMS companies, Greenock donated many of the gifts and monies UM preschool, the Buffalo Wild Wings for the expenses and also helped with mascot, Frosty the Snowman, the the planning and organizing.

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Northwest Bank Announces Contest Winners FRONT ROW: L TO R – Mike Herzing (Winner); Toby Herzing; Eric Bodner (Winner); Suzanne Warner; Earl Warner (Winner) 2ND ROW: L TO R – Kelvin Beacham (Player); James Harrison (Player); Brett Keisel (former Player); Cody Wallace (Player); Alejandro Villanueva (Player); Rich Laws (Northwest Corporate) 3RD ROW: L TO R – Dylan Roush; Brandy Lewis (Winner); Eric Reed (Winner); Cameron Hopkin; Victor Hopkin (Winner); Dennis Vicairy (Winner); Stephanie Vicairy; Shawn Walker (Northwest Corporate) BACK ROW: L TO R - Bill Holland; Cam Heyward (Player); David DeCastro (Player); Matt Spaeth (Player); Doug Legursky (Player); Will Allen (Player); Greg Warren (Player); and Shawn Suisham (Player)

Northwest Bank sponsored their 9th annual “Hunt with the Black and Gold” contest in which nine winners had the opportunity to hunt with members of the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday, November 24.

The winners were: • Eric Bodner, McDonald • Victor Hopkin, Ruffsdale • Earl Warner, Pittsburgh • Dennis Vicairy, Curwensville • Brandy Lewis, Seneca • Eric Reed, Centerville • Mike Herzing, St. Marys The winners and their guests met the players at the Alpine Club in Bridgeville, south of Pittsburgh, for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to participate in a guided bird hunt. They joined Brett Keisel and other members

of the Steelers, including Kelvin Beachum, Cody Wallace, Cam Heyward, Matt Spaeth, Alejandro Villanueva, James Harrison, Will Allen, David DeCastro, Dough Legursky, Greg Warren and Shaun Suisham. The hunt was followed by lunch and an autograph and photo session with the players.

Northwest Bank operates 181 community banking offices in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and Maryland.

Founded in 1896, Northwest is a full-service financial institution offering a complete line of personal and business banking products including commercial and small business loans, cash management services, oil, gas and mineral management services, employee benefits, investment management, insurance and trust.

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Rostraver Township SR 51 SINC-UP Project Benefits Traffic Coordination The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission’s (SPC) Regional Traffic Signal Program was established to assist local municipalities with improving traffic signal operations by optimizing signal timings and upgrading existing signal equipment. The Rostraver Township SR 51 Signals in Coordination with Equipment Upgrades (SINC-UP) Project is a signal equipment upgrade and retiming project with the goal of optimizing signal operations at the study intersections along the SR 51 corridor while considering all users of the intersections.

Project Area included: SR 51 and Harper Drive / Concord Lane SR 51 and Pfile Drive / Concord Lane SR 51 and Finley Road SR 51 and SR 981

Traffic Signal Coordination: Improves safety since vehicles stop

less often, which reduces the probability for rear-end crashes Benefits the environment by reducing vehicle emissions Reduces travel costs by reducing the amount of time stopped at red lights Saves money at the gas station by reducing fuel use (with less stopping) As part of this project, new controllers and GPS synchronization equipment were added to keep intersections in step with each other. The safety of the corridor was also improved by adding informative signs for motorists as well as the addition of new LED countdown pedestrian signals at Pfile Driveway / Concord Lane to increase pedestrian safety and save electricity.

Travel Improvements: Travel times typically decreased by 0.3 — 0.7 minutes, with an average 21% improvement in travel time.

There were approximately 60%

New controllers and GPS synchronization equipment keep intersections in step with each other.

fewer stops along SR 51, and an average 73% decrease in signal delays.

Prior to this SINC-UP Project, motorists typically experienced moderate delays and the frustration of consecutive stopping at traffic signals. This retiming project coordinated the traffic patterns among these intersections which alleviated consecutive stopping and reduced the motorist’s frustration.

CALL US!

Additionally, the broken video detection at the intersection of SR 51 and Harper Drive / Concord Lane was replaced with radar detection, which eliminated missed calls and false calls primarily for lefts turning vehicles arid side street motorists.

Before and after videos can be seen at: www.spcregion.org/trans_ops_traff_vid s.shtml.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Local Interchange Undergoing a Needed Facelift

All the major participants took part in the ribbon–cutting ceremony held at the Interchange.

By Paul Chasko The cloverleaf interchange at the intersection of Curry Hollow Road and State Route 51 is the hub of the communities of Pleasant Hills, Jefferson Hills, Brentwood, Whitehall, and Baldwin and serves as an important corridor through the South Hills into Pittsburgh.

Economic Development South (EDS) is spear-heading a long-term facelift for the four quadrants of the interchange. EDS, in partnership with Kevin Langholz, owner of the Bill Green Shopping Center; the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy; Pleasant Hills Borough; and PennDOT, has developed a partnership arrangement that will beautify the grounds of the interchange with new plantings.

Future maintenance of the grounds will be through a public-private partnership between the Borough of Pleasant Hills and Langholz, with support assistance from both EDS and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. Mr. Langholz and his busi-

New Eagle Makes Re-Appointments

By Miranda Startare New Eagle Borough Council reappointed two individuals to local boards at its December 1 monthly meeting.

The council reappointed Christopher Carroll as Mid-Mon Valley Transit Authority representative. They also reappointed New Eagle Mayor Charles Fine as the representative on the New Eagle Sewage Authority Board.

In other business, Council announced that a borough vehicle was sold to Carroll Township Street Department. The 2000 International dump truck was purchased by Carroll Township for $4,500.

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ness partners are credited with managing the entire project.

Over the past year, dead debris and trees were removed from the grounds of the interchange. In late October and early November, with the financial support of Langholz, thirty new trees were planted on the site by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, volunteers and local business owners. The new plantings include Colorado spruces, river birches, honey locust, eastern red buds, and serviceberry trees.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the newly planted trees took place on Friday, November 6th in the parking lot directly opposite from the groupings of new trees. Stephanie Miller of EDS headed the accelerated ceremony - the light rain was good for the trees but not so good for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

EDS is a local non-profit, multi-municipal community and economic development corporation focused on the redevelopment of the major corridors that serve our neighborhoods, including most of the communities in the South Hills.

No Tax Increase for Carroll Twp.

By Miranda Startare Carroll Township Board of Supervisors accepted and approved the 2016 budget at the December 1 monthly meeting. The 2016 budget will include moderate salary increases for employees, but no tax increases.

The supervisors announced that this year’s budget has a positive balance and that the 2016 budget will have no budget increases.

Carroll Township Solicitor Herman Bigi acknowledged the board’s continued fiscal responsibility, saying, “The state government – they could use Carroll as an example.”

Also at the meeting, resident Maya Patch discussed some properties on Rt. 837 in disrepair, including some garages and buildings and a house with a broken window, busted fence, and piles of coal. Mrs. Patch asked the board to drive by the location for a visual inspection.

In other business: The board accepted and approved the PennDOT Winter Agreement payment in the amount of $14,330.

The board approved the Lot Consolidation Plan for the Ringgold School District as recommended by the Carroll Township Planning Commission. The consolidation of lots is required to prepare for the construction of the new middle school.

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Local People News Monongahela Valley Hospital Honors Immediate Past Board Chairman

Dunbar Author to Thrill Readers With Heroic Adventure in New Novel

John D. Fry, who served as the former chairman of the Board of Directors of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. (MVHR) and the Board of Trustees of Monongahela Valley Hospital (MVH), was recently honored when a classroom was named and dedicated in his honor on the Hospital’s Carroll Township campus.

“With great esteem, we are proud to recognize Jack Fry for his years of board Standing in front of the newly dedicated leadership,” said Louis J. Panza Jr., John D. Fry Classroom are (l- r) Louis J. MVH’s president and CEO, as the Panza Jr., president and CEO of MVH; John plaque beside the entrance to the classDr. Fry, immediate past chairman; and R. room was unveiled.

Carlyn Belczyk, current board chairman.

Mr. Fry was elected to the MVH Board of Directors in 1998 and to the MVH Board of Trustees in 2000. He was elected secretary of both boards in 2005. In 2007, Mr. Fry was elected vice chairman of the two boards. Also during that year, he was honored with the Pallone Award for Dimensions in Board Leadership at the Hospital’s 19th Annual Gala.

The award recognized his excellent leadership and dedication to both boards. He was elected chairman of both boards in 2010. His fifth term ended in June 2015.

Mr. Fry remains an active member of both boards.

Author Jason Pokopec announces the nationwide release of his new action and adventure novel, “Enigmatic Descent: Gastons Gorge.” In “Enigmatic Descent,” a scourge has been ravishing the small town of Gastons Gorge for untold years. Fate seems destined to remain on the same debilitating course until a few unassuming souls embark on an enigmatic descent. Along the way, many obstacles befall the group, but none can dissuade the perseverance that everyone in the group achieves.

With a foreboding evil taking continuous aim on the small town, the small band of companions locate the source. It is found to be a new world with inhabitants that earthly eyes have never looked upon before. Yet similar people are spotted — enslaved townsfolk from the targeted site, who are desperately in need of rescue.

With courage, passion and love, the fateful spirits undertake a battle that will never be known by the town it is fighting for.

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com.

Pokopec resides in Dunbar, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Billie, and daughter, Monica. He graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor’s degree in business and an associate’s degree in business administration. He is currently working toward a degree in computer security.

Washington County Assistant District Attorney Cassidy Miller Sworn In Washington County District Attorney Eugene A. Vittone has announced that Assistant District Attorney Cassidy Miller, Esquire, was sworn in on a recent Wednesday morning by Judge John F. DiSalle.

Ms. Miller will serve Washington County as an assistant district attorney who will be responsible for the criminal trials, court appearances connected with the general trial docket and preAssistant District Attorney Cassidy Miller liminary hearings before magistrates.

“I feel fortunate to be able to attract attorneys of Ms. Miller’s capability. Cassidy has worked in the Court of Common Pleas for two years as a law clerk. She is very well regarded and possesses a superb work ethic. We are very happy to have her join our staff,” District Attorney Vittone stated.

Ms. Miller is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and received her law degree from the Duquesne University School of Law. Previously, Ms. Miller was employed as a law clerk for the Hon. Judge John F. DiSalle. Ms. Miller is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

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PEOPLE

West Mifflin VFW 914 Announces VOD Teacher of the Year

By Michael P. Mauer West Mifflin Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid has selected a Mon Valley educator with more than two decades of experience as its nominee for VFW Voice of Democracy Teacher of the Year.

Melissa L. Fulmer, an English teacher at West Mifflin Area High School, earned VFW Post 914’s support for encouraging more than 30 of her students to participate in this year’s VOD program.

She received a $100 award Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid and a certificate on Dec. 12 during the West Mifflin Commander Jake Bradich, left, post’s annual Christmas party and recogpresents the post’s VFW VOD Teacher of nition banquet at the Thompson Run the Year award to Melissa L. Fulmer.

Athletic Association on Ball Avenue, West Mifflin.

Her nomination will be forwarded for consideration to VFW District 29 in Pittsburgh, and if successful, to further competition at the VFW state and national levels.

According to VFW Post 914 Intrepid Commander Jake Bradich, a solid partnership with West Mifflin Area School District contributes to the veterans organization’s success.

“Our outreach activities through the VOD and Walt Kuczma scholarship programs - and our strong partnership with the West Mifflin Air Force JROTC - show that the VFW has a place is our schools, and in supporting the faculty, staff and students,” said Bradich in presenting the award.. “At West Mifflin, the school district fully cooperates with annual Veterans Day lunches, Veterans Day ceremonies, the Pearl Harbor and 9/11 remembrance events, as well as Memorial Day activities and marching in Pittsburgh’s Veterans Day parade.”

Originally from Duquesne, Fulmer holds a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh. A graduate of West Mifflin Area High School, she earned her undergraduate degrees in teaching and English from Duquesne University and the Community College of Allegheny County.

If successful in further competition at the state level, Fulmer could receive hotel accommodations to attend a VFW conference to receive her award, a plaque and a large flag set.

For more information about VFW Post 914 and its activities, contact Commander Bradich at 412-464-9838.

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South Hills Interfaith Ministries Announces New Volunteer Manager Plans are to expand volunteer opportunities and events South Hills Interfaith Ministries (SHIM) is pleased to announce the hiring of Rebecca MalettoCornell as volunteer manager. In this new position, Cornell will coordinate opportunities for SHIM’s hundreds of volunteers and help to maintain current volunteer relationships, while recruiting more members of the community to get involved.

“As SHIM continues to grow and adapt to meet our community’s needs, the volunteer manager is essential to our organization,” said Jim Guffey, executive director, SHIM. “We’re excited to have Rebecca join our team and help us create even more Rebecca Maletto-Cornell opportunities for our community and volunteers.”

Cornell’s main responsibilities as volunteer manager will include recruiting volunteers, marketing, representing SHIM at events, matching volunteers’ interests to SHIM’s needs, hosting volunteer orientations and more.

Over the next few months, SHIM, with the help of Cornell, will be expanding opportunities for people to volunteer on evenings and weekends, including more family-friendly experiences, networking opportunities, programs for high school students and more.

This month, Cornell is coordinating a day for college students to volunteer with SHIM over winter break. ‘Winter break at SHIM’ will take place on January 5, where participating students will help the organization reorganize, clean and prepare for the new year.

Cornell holds eleven years of volunteer management experience from a variety of Pittsburgh organizations. Prior to her start with SHIM, Cornell worked with Amachi Pittsburgh and American Red Cross on recruiting and maintaining volunteers and planning volunteer events and opportunities. Cornell holds business degrees from both Penn State University and the University of Phoenix. A South Hills resident herself, Cornell resides in Baldwin.

“I am thrilled to be part of SHIM as we begin the transition into 2016,” Cornell said. “I look forward to working with the organization’s long-time, dedicated supporters, as well as helping SHIM gain new relationships in the community and expand our number of volunteers.”

Pearl Harbor Veteran Pearson Harkema: A Hero Remembered Pearl Harbor veteran Pearson Harkema is flanked by West Mifflin Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Standing in front of the newly dedicated Intrepid Commander Jake Bradich, John D. Fry Classroom are (l- r) Louis J. Panza Jr., president and CEO of MVH; John left, and Jennifer Halaszynski, Chief of Dr. Fry, immediate past chairman; and R. Staff for Pennsylvania Representative Carlyn Belczyk, current board chairman.

Bill Kortz, 38th District. Harkema was honored at West Mifflin Area Senior High School during a Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony on December 7th. It was the West Mifflin VFW Post’s 25th annual event commemorating the attack 74 years ago.

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Business & Merchant News Welcome, New Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Members!

Brunswick Zone-Belle Vernon Jeff Nelson 4742 Star Route 51S PO Box 673 Belle Vernon, PA 15012 www.bowlbrunswick.com/ about-us/358/1 724-929-3260 Bowling/Entertainment Building Bridges for Business Linda Handley 625 Stanwix Street #1605 Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-337-3430 www.buildingbridgesforbusiness.org Non-Profit Creationsbyamj Anne Jablonski 922 Broad Avenue Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-243-3792 www.creationsbyamj.net Gifts/Specialty Shop Full Armor Fitness Samuel Sokol 207 Fifth Street Charleroi, PA 15022 724-875-9302 www.facebook.com/ fullarmorfitnessllc.com Fitness Center/Gym/Personal Training Greenhouse Winery Cindy Helinski 1048 Pinewood Road Irwin, PA 15642 724-446-5000 www.greenhousewinery.com Winery Itty Bitty Treasures and More/ Riverside Village Shoppes Sara Dziak/Donna Dalfonso 127 Speers Street Belle Vernon, PA 5012 724-489-8144/724-483-2290 www.ittybittytreasuresandmore.com Miniatures/Awards & Engraving/Gift Items-Jewelry

Marianna Outdoorsmen Association Jason White 2012 Morey Road 724-986-5708 www.mariannaoutdoors.com Clarksville, PA 15322 Non-Profit Mon Valley Hose & Fitting Brian Pivovarnik 1250 McKean Avenue Charleroi, PA 15022 724-483-3189 Manufacturing Patriot One, Inc. Dave Yurkovich 35 Carson Street Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-483-4701 www.patriotone.com General Contracting The Protin Group James Protin 532 McKean Avenue Charleroi, PA 15022 412-721-0620 www.theprotingroup.com ROI Business Funding Jason Woods 332 S. Michigan Avenue Suite 1032-R664 Chicago, IL 60604 312-780-1450 x886 www.roibusinessfunding.com Steel Dog Construction Laura Koon 1399 Route 481 Charleroi, PA 15022 724-250-0317 Construction Union Prescription Center Angie Borrello 401 Donner Avenue Monessen, PA 15062 724-684-8350 Pharmacy

Brownsville’s Twelve Oaks Restaurant Moves Forward With ‘Gone with the Wind’ Theme With its new name of the Twelve Oaks Restaurant, you might not immediately guess the recently opened restaurant in the Thompson House has a “Gone with the Wind” theme. But add to that clues like the Carpetbaggers Tavern and the Ashley Room downstairs and the private dining room on the second floor and, frankly my dear, you’d have to be a feather-headed Yankee not to get the connection.

Owners David and Susan Yurkovich started renovating the 21-room, 1906 Thompson House back in February of 2013, and their year and a half long labor of love opened in July of 2014.

The historic mansion-turnedeatery/boutique is perhaps a harbinger of how far economic development has progressed in a historic river town named Brownsville.

Twelve Oaks was the former home of Thomas H. Thompson, son of Samuel Thompson, who founded the town’s first distillery in 1844. His father, Samuel Thompson, owned Thompson Distillery Company, nationally known in the early 1900s as a premier rye whiskey distillery. The distillery flourished in Brownsville, until the prohibition, which caused it to move to Canada.

The setting is elegant and uniquely impressive, whether fine dining or casual dining in our Ashley banquet room.

Our Bonnie Blue Victorian Tea Room is another wonderful and whimsical way to enjoy a more intimate shower or luncheon with your attendants, groups, or just those special friends. The Carpetbaggers Tavern, located on the lower level, encases the old world charm, where you can relax and share others company. The Carpetbaggers has its own menu, which was carefully

designed to entice you love for good cuisine and ale.

Determined to continue providing fine cuisine while moving to a more casual dining experience, the owners acquired Executive Chef Michael Di Marco, former owner/operator of some of Uniontown’s most unique and favorite eateries, such as: DiMarco’s Café, South Street Grill, DiMarco’s Bistro & Cantina and most recently The Smokin’ Crab. Michael attended WCCC Culinary Art’s apprenticeship program, where he obtained his degree. Post graduate activities include competing professionally in various food salons and mystery box competitions where he earned various awards, including Westmoreland’s distinguished Alumnus of 2006.

Chef DiMarco recognizes not only the importance of having a fun menu but involving the patrons in the evolution of the restaurant itself. “Reviving the menu with fresh ingredients and familiar dishes is just the beginning,” he stated. Currently The Carpetbaggers Tavern is hosting new beer and liquor reveals, wine tastings and hors d’ouevres samplings that are a great way to spend an evening out while being very wallet-friendly.

“Integrating family recipes from the past, favorite dishes from our present with comments and advice from our patrons, we hope to be able to shape the future for Twelve Oaks,” said DiMarco. “Our foremost objective is to ensure that all of our guests have a memorable experience, offering everyone our hospitality, excellent cuisine and the ambiance of timeless style.”

For more information please call: 724-785-3200.

Visit us online at www.messengerpaper.com

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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS

SMAART Business Plan Contest Awards Winners Announced The Mon River Town Program, in partnership with its fiscal agent, the National Road Heritage Program and its River Town Coalition partners, is pleased to announce the three winners of the SMAART Business Plan Contest.

Each of the winners will be awarded $10,000 each to use toward growing their Mon River Valley small business.

The SMAART Business Advisory Council judged applications based on the following criteria: relevance to the economic development of River Towns; viability of the business idea; economic impact on the region; presentation quality; and attendance at workshops.

The winners are: • Steel Dog Construction, owners Laura and Jason Koon of Charleroi • Full Armor Fitness, owner Samuel Sokol of Charleroi • Chaney’s Natural, owner Tanya Chaney of Monongahela Steel Dog Construction is a full service general contracting company which focuses on residential and commercial restoration, with an expertise in carpentry and redesign.

Full Armor Fitness incorporates the balance of a healthy life style and workout facility for young professionals, students, families and seniors.

Chaney’s Natural offers an array of exceptional services from massages, nails, weight management and herbal supplements in a fun and relaxing environment.

A press event and awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, January 14th at 10 a.m. immediately following a meeting of the Mon River Valley Coalition at California University of PA, Kara Alumni House, 611 Second Street, California, PA. The public is welcome to attend. RSVP by January 10, 2016 to Cathy McCollom at csm@mccollomds.com.

SNOW DATE FOR THE EVENT: JANUARY 28, 2016.

The SMAART Business Plan Contest was made possible through a grant from Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development and the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.

Key partners included: the National Road Heritage Corridor; Charleroi Borough; the U.S. Small Business Administration; PA Southwest Partners for Regional Economic Performance; University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center; The Mon River Valley Coalition; and the River Town Program.

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Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Holds Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies

Anova Home Health Care Services The MVRCC and the GRC recently helped Anova Home Health Care Services and Hospice Palliative Care Services open their new location in Charleroi at 17 McKean Avenue. Anova’s staff is ready to serve their patients and to “Light the Way to Better Patient Care.” Seen here participating in the official ribbon cutting are (l-r): David Galloni, Chamber Executive Committee; Jim Protin, Chamber President; Nainesh and Jayna Desai, owners; and Mark Alterici, mayor of Charleroi.

Save the Date!

Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce Plans 2nd Annual ‘Taste of the Town’ The Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce will host their 2nd Annual Taste of the Town on Sunday, March 13th from 2 – 5 p.m. at the Rostraver Central Fire Hall. This food extravaganza will feature food and beverage vendors including local restaurants, pubs, bakeries, caterers, wineries, confectioners, grocers and others. Attendees will enjoy a sampling of items from appetizers to desserts and everything in between. A raffle prize drawing, 50/50 and voting for “Best of the Town” will be also be included.

Order tickets now to take advantage of the Early Bird Special of $20/person until January 15, 2016. After that, tickets will be $25/person. A limited amount of tickets are available. Call the Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce at 724-929-3329 or email grcoc1@comcast.net to order tickets. If you are a food or beverage vendor interested in participating, call 724-929-3329.

Full Armor Fitness The MVRCC recently helped to cut the ribbon at Full Armor Fitness, located at 207 5th Street in Charleroi. Samuel Sokol, owner and NGA-certified personal trainer, is now accepting memberships. They offer NGA-certified personal training and strength, cardio, and aerobic equipment. Seen here (lr) are: Diann Donaldson, Chamber Executive Committee; Jordan Cole, friend of the owner; Ashley Sokol; Samuel Sokol, owner; Mark Alterici, mayor of Charleroi; Greg Sossong, friend of owner; and Deb Buck, Chamber Board and Borough Council. Full Armor Fitness can be contacted at 724-875-9302.

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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS

Programs Planned for Entrepreneurs in the Mon Valley Trade industry professions, such as auto repair and carpentry, have been the lifeblood of many residents of the Mon Valley for more than 30 years. The University of Pittsburgh’s University Center for Social and Urban Research (UCSUR) and Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence (IEE) are collaborating on a project that will assist the Mon Valley region turn its labor jobs into profitable and lasting business ventures.

The project, “Advancing Entrepreneurship in the Mon Valley Region,” will provide business consultation, education, and research to existing small business owners and emerging entrepreneurs in the region. The project has received a twoyear grant of from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).

Advancing entrepreneurship is a key economic development strategy for the Mon Valley region. “Economic distress continues to be pervasive in the Mon Valley, decades after the shuttering of many steel mills. This project will create pathways for emerging and existing entrepreneurs to develop and grow their businesses and link to public-private partnerships that address the needs of these emerging firms,” said project principal investigator Sabina Deitrick.

The project includes these two-hour programs on helping to start and grow new businesses:

Make It Happen in the Mon Valley An interactive workshop to determine if starting a business is right and how to begin searching for the “right” business. Carnegie Library of Homestead, February 4, 2016, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The First Step: Mechanics of Starting a Small Business A comprehensive workshop designed for anyone with a business idea looking for how to get started. This is a highly interactive session to explore market potential and tools you’ll need to attract customers. Carnegie Library of Homestead, February 18, 2016, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

The Second Step: Creating a Business Plan A workshop that will help you develop a business plan, a tool successful business owners use to guide their businesses’ growth. A business plan is critical to supporting and sustaining your businesses. Carnegie Library of Homestead, February 25, 2016, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Mon Valley firms are also eligible for one-on-one consulting services offered by IEE. These are provided at no fee. To register for any of these workshops, please call 412-624-3095 or email iee@innovation.pitt.edu. For more information, visit us online at http://monvalleyentrepreneur.pitt.edu.

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Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Recognizes Borough of Speers in December Spotlight The Borough of Speers is being recognized by the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (MVRCC) in its Member Spotlight for December.

This amazing community is truly a great place to live, work, and play in every sense. It features a quiet and clean residential area that contains level streets of neat and well-maintained homes. The residents are entitled to the use of a centrally located and beautiful community park. The business district in the lower portion of Speers on the Monongahela River is known for its quaint shops, Riverside Village, a bustling marina, Smitty’s, and excellent dining at the Back Porch and Speers Street Grill. Moving on to industry, it contains one of the area’s largest employers, the Guttman Group, and the Speers Industrial Park, which is nearly at full capacity. Speers Borough is also home to Mon Valley Career and Technology Center, which serves several local school districts with important vocational training to high school students.

Most importantly, the community of Speers has good leadership and employees that insure its safety and high standard of maintenance, which include Mayor Bill Lee, Council President William Klamorick, Jr., Vice President Curtis Rice, Regis Carroll, Richard Baylong, Bill Krutz, Tom Monack, and Kim Heino. Borough secretary is Jody Burkholder, Street foreman is Dennis Carson and laborer is Doug Prentice.

The Borough office is located at 300 Phillips Street and can be contacted at 724483-5882. The MVRCC is a proud partner of the Borough of Speers and is grateful for their membership since 2002. Municipalities in the mid-Mon Valley region are welcome and encouraged to join the Chamber as well for only $100/year.

MVRCC Holds Annual Christmas Party

GREATER ROSTRAVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS Martins Christmas Tree Farm, George Martin 699 Porter McNutt Road, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 Phone: 412-496-7827 • www.martinschristmastreefarm.com Floral Décor & More Country Store, Tina Theys 719 Broad Avenue, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 Phone: 724-268-3984 • www.floraldecormore.com Jill Devine, Esq. 4660 State Rt. 51S, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 Phone: 724-379-4601 • jill@bvlaws.com Creationsbyamj, Anne E. Jablonski 922 Broad Avenue, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 Phone: 724-243-3792 • Fax: 724-243-3725 • www.creationsbyamj.net

Pictured are (l-r): Debbie Bachinski and Julian Imbrescia of Douglas Education Center and Trish Brickner of PaCareer Link.

The Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce’s (MVRCC) annual Christmas party was held on December 3 at the Charleroi Elks Club, where 100 members and guests were in attendance. Music was provided by D.J. Jerry Jericho and food was catered by Jerry’s Catering. Thank you to sponsors Bassi, Vreeland & Associates; Community Bank; Higher Images; Highway Appliance; Gene Lofink Heating and A/C; Lowe’s Home Improvement; and River House Café.

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Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce Holds Ribbon Cuttings Anova Home Health Care and Hospice Services

Pictured are Anova Home Health Care and Hospice Services owner Nainesh Desai and staff

On December 1st, Anova Home Health Care & Hospice Services celebrated the expansion and move to their new office space, located at 17 McKean Avenue, Charleroi. The spacious and updated office houses both the home healthcare division and hospice care staff. Owner Nainesh Desai celebrated the opening with staff, family and friends. For information regarding Home Health Care, call 724-483-3124, and for Hospice Palliative Care, call 724-483-3812.

Floral Décor & More Country Store

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GRC Names Vintage & Vines December Business of the Month The Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce (GRC) is pleased to name Vintage & Vines as the December Business of the Month.

Vintage & Vines is a somewhat new antique shop and flower shop located at 623 Broad Avenue in Belle Vernon.

The shop opened in Pictured are (l-r) GRC Board Member Judi Robbins; 2013 at 719 Broad and Owner Jean Ann Gallo; GRC Board Member grew into a 14-dealer Deborah Puglia; and Director Gina C. Lynn. antique co-op very quickly. The shop's owner, Jean Ann Gallo, relocated the antique shop to 623 Broad Avenue in May of this year and expanded into a “full service” flower shop. This fulfilled her dream of combining an antiques and primitives with gifts and flowers to create a unique shopping experience.

The NEW Vintage & Vines is comprised of eight antique vendors that bring their own individual style to the shop with unique treasures that are merchandised throughout in a pleasant “gift shop” atmosphere. You will find primitive, vintage and antique furniture combined with collectibles, wrought iron, salvage, bottles, boxes and so much more to create a shopping adventure.

Vintage & Vines is locally owned and is very proud to sell artisan and USA-made products. This began at the old location and continues to grow at the new location with homemade soaps, handmade pillows, candles, cards and very special painted furniture pieces. Each month brings a new addition to the family.

The latest venture at Vintage & Vines has proven to be a wise decision by putting a “full service” flower shop back on Broad Avenue. The shop specializes in one-of-a-kind fresh, dried and artificial designs with a vintage flair. Many plants and floral creations are designed in antique and/or primitive containers. All are unique and different. Your special piece can be designed just for you! Custom orders are always welcome and local deliveries are available.

For more info on hours and events check out Vintage & Vines Antiques at https://www.facebook.com/ vintageandvinesflowershop/.

Join the GRC and Community Partners for an Evening of Motivation

Pictured are (l-r) GRC Board Member Tanya Chaney; Joanne Carcella; Owner Tina Theys; Ann Theys and GRC Board Member Deborah Puglia.

A ribbon cutting was held to welcome Floral Decor & More Country Store to the GRC and business community. Located at 719 Broad Avenue, Belle Vernon, Floral Décor & More Country Store offers primitive décor, country, candles, handmade wooden accent pieces, floral arrangements, centerpieces, wreaths and more. Pre-made and made-to-order gift baskets for all occasions are also available. For more information, call 724-268-3984.

On Thursday, February25th, the Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce (GRC) and community partners will welcome Eric McElvenny, Marine Corps captain, endurance athlete, and speaker, to evening event.

Eric McElvenny lost his leg in Afghanistan as a Marine Corps captain and now speaks all around the country while competing in Ironman triathlon races.

He talks about how positive thinking and determination helped him overcome such adversity. Eric personally tailors each presentation and topics of discussion include leadership, Military life, faith, team building skills, positive thinking and overcoming adversity. Eric’s experiences relate to and motivate people to get back on track and reach their finish lines.

A native of Belle Vernon, we are pleased to welcome Eric back to his hometown for this event. To reserve your seat and purchase an entrance ticket, please call the Greater Rostraver Chamber at 724-929-3329 or email grcoc1@comcast.net.

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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS

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Martial Arts Center Celebrates 30th Anniversary at South Park Location The Allegheny County Martial Arts Center is celebrating 30 years at its location in the South Park Fairgrounds. This non-profit martial arts facility has been providing self-defense based training to the residents of the south hills since 1986.

Offering instruction in Jiu-jitsu, Karate and Kobudo (weapons), all of the instructors donate their time, providing affordable traditional training to all students, ages 8 to adult.

When asked to describe the keys to the longevity of the facility, Chief Instructor Joseph Hedderman says, “All of our internationally recognized instructors are very experienced and love teaching these arts to our students. It is not a job for us, it is our passion. Additionally, our students find value in the traditional self-defense based arts we teach. They not only gain physical skills from their training, but they also develop less measurable benefits such as self-confidence, discipline and focus.”

To celebrate the 30th anniversary, the Allegheny County Martial Arts Center in providing a special discount to any new student (child or adult) who starts during January or February 2016. Hedderman describes it by saying, “We are kind of turning back the clock and providing something like 1986 pricing. Any new student who starts will get 2 months of training in any one of our arts and a karate uniform for $24.99. We think it will be great way to introduce newcomers to the world of traditional martial arts.”

The Allegheny County Martial Arts Center is located in Building #5 of the South Park Fairgrounds and is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization working in conjunction with the Allegheny County Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, call 412-854-4633 or visit http://www.koseido-dojo.org/.

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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS

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Waddell and Reed Shines In MVRCC November Spotlight

Pictured (l-r) are: Jeffrey Mendola, Managing Principal; and Jacob Cuthbert and Brody Carcella, financial advisors at Waddell and Reed.

Waddell and Reed has been named the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce’s (MVRCC) Member Spotlight for November.

Founded in 1937, Waddell and Reed is among the most enduring asset management and financial planning firms in the nation, providing proven investment and planning services to individuals and institutional investors.

As Waddell and Reed has grown, so has its commitment to personal financial planning. Today, nearly 1,800 financial advisors in more than 400 registered offices across the country offer clients a diverse range of investment and insurance products to help them meet their financial planning needs.

Waddell and Reed is a huge supporter of the MVRCC since 2003; Jeff Mendola serves on the Chamber Board, the golf committee and the membership committee, and the firm has sponsored numerous Chamber projects and events. In 2010, Jeff and his team at Waddell and Reed were awarded the Chamber’s “Excellence in Business” award.

For more information about Waddell & Reed’s local offices and services, contact Jeffrey S. Mendola, Managing Principal, Monroeville Office, 2790 Mosside Blvd., Monroeville, at 412-858-9090 Ext. 101. Waddell and Reed is also located at 540 Broad Avenue in Belle Vernon, 724-929-3959 and 2000 Park Place, Washington, 724-749-5885. Visit them on line at www.waddell.com.

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ASK the

EXPERTS

Q: Do all distal biceps tendon injuries require surgery?

A: No. Partial tears may be treated conservatively with rest and splinting, followed by progressive activity advancement. Complete tears of the distal biceps are routinely surgically repaired to prevent the 35% loss in supination strength, 20% loss in elbow flexion strength, and 40% loss of supination endurance. Supination is the ability to turn your palm face up as if you were turning a screw driver.

KITCHEN APPLIANCES Q: My neighbor just purchased a new set of GE kitchen appliances with a “Slate” colored finish.

It looked and felt fantastic! What can you tell me about this latest style?

ORTHOPEDICS

Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture

"Pothole" Highway Appliances

A: GE’s new fashion-forward premium appliance finish, “Slate” is a color that is just as stylish and sophisticated as stained steel but with a strong, earthy feel. From exquisite slate flooring to tasteful cabinetry, kitchens today have become more than just a place to prep meals. They have become a place for families and friends to come together and entertain. Slate from GE is sophisticated, modern with a twist of verve, and a dose of stunning.

It’s a timeless new finish that beautifully blends in to help you truly stand out.

Whether you are looking to replace a single appliance or remodeling your entire kitchen, GE’s Slate appliances are designed to blend with other stainless steel, black or white appliances, or make a statement by themselves.

The benefits of Slate include: • Resist fingerprints • Easily complements other appliances • Attractive color looks unique and stylish • Easy to clean and keep looking great • Finished with bold, brushed metal touch points Slate is a warm, inviting alternative to stainless steel. As the new look of modern luxury, Slate is unlike anything on the market today, and it’s sure to ignite a style. Stop in to Highway Appliance today to browse our selection of GE Slate appliances and see for yourself.

Q: How do I know if I have a complete rupture?

A: In one study of 48 patients, only 17 (35%) heard an audible pop after their injury and of those 17 only 14 patients were confirmed to have a complete distal biceps tendon rupture after undergoing an MRI. It is therefore extremely important to be evaluated by an orthopaedic surgeon specialized in sports and upper extremity care so that a complete rupture is not missed.

Gerson B. Florez, M.D. Orthopaedic Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon The Orthopedic Group

Q: Can my distal biceps tendon injury be treated with outpatient surgery?

A: Yes. Spartan Health Surgicenter is increasing their orthopaedic care volume by working with The Orthopedic Group, a specialized group of fellowship trained surgeons. They will bring expert care and surgical techniques in the fields of hand and upper extremity as well as sports medicine to our facility.

Q: Will I need to be in a splint after surgery?

A: Many post-operative protocols have proven effective in the orthopaedic literature, thus you will find variations among surgeons when it comes to post-operative splinting. Dr. Florez, uses a waterproof dressing and a hinged elbow brace that may be removed for hygiene care. This allows his patients to take a shower the day of surgery.

Q: How long before I am allowed to return to work?

A: Dr. Florez does not limit range of motion after 2 weeks but does however impose a 1 pound lifting restriction for 10 weeks. If you are able to perform your daily work functions under these parameters, then you can return to work as early as two weeks.

Q: When can I start lifting weights for exercise or return to contact sports?

A: Complete tendon-bone integration takes roughly 12 weeks. Dr. Florez requests that his patients delay weight lifting until 6 months from the time of surgery. An appropriate time frame for return to sports after distal biceps repair is 4 to 6 months, where football, rugby and weight lifting are delayed until the 6 month mark from the time of surgery.

2214 Rt. 88, Dunlevy(Exit 40 off Interstate 70, and just minutes off Rt. 43) 724-326-5616 • www.highwayappliance.com

S U R G I C E N T E R

For more information on The Orthopedic Group, visit the website www.theorthopedicgroup.com.

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Free Wi-Fi! BELGIAN WAFFLE SATURDAYS 7 am - Noon!!

Ruthfred Shopping Center 3400 South Park Rd, Bethel Park 412-833-JAVA Mon ʹ Fri 6 am ʹ 4 pm Saturday 7 am ʹ 3 pm

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Seniors

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VENETIA COMMUNITY CENTER SENIOR NEWS

Center in the Woods Senior Center Schedule of Events

Venetia Community Center, located at 800 Venetia Road, in Venetia, has the following events planned: Senior Lunches –We are sponsored by the Washington County Aging Services & the Southwestern PA Area on Aging.

These delicious lunches are prepared by the staff of the Canonsburg Senior Center and delivered by our faithful volunteers to the center. All seniors are welcome. Suggested donation is $2. A blood pressure screening is conducted from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. prior to the lunch. A speaker or music is provided after the luncheon for your information and pleasure. Bingo is also offered by our organization.

January 14 Lunch Speaker: Shawntee Amos, from Southern Care. She will also do something special – a wintertime bingo.

January 29 Lunch Speaker: Dave Stanton, PT police officer, will be speaking on identity theft.

To reserve your meal or for more information, please call Erma Grego at 724-941-6956.

Center in the Woods Senior Center, 130 Woodland Court, Brownsville, can be reached at 724-9383554. Listed below are their January events: Happy New Year! We would like to welcome you to join our family here at the Center in the Woods! Our daily activities include lab services, and lunch is served at noon. Please call us at least a day in advance to order lunch. Mondays we have watercolors, choir and bridge, Tuesdays include billiard lessons, chair dancing, Healthy Steps, bingo, dart ball and cards. Wednesdays involve Bible study, bean bag toss, basket guild, and 500 Bid, and Thursdays have chair dancing, Healthy Steps, bridge, jam sessions, and bingo. Fridays are special with Wii bowling and euchre.

We also have blood pressure screenings twice a month, foot appointments with the podiatrist, a beauty shop on W, TH, and F by appointment, massage therapy with Bethany by appointment, and our Jam session every Thursday at 1 p.m. with a lot of local, talented musicians! We also rent our dining hall out for different events. Call for more details!

January activities include: Monday, Jan. 4 -"Who's Who" game. Bring in a childhood pic, and we will guess who you are!

Friday, Jan. 15 - National Hat Day. Wear your favorite hat!

Tuesday, Jan. 19 - National Popcorn Day. Enjoy some fresh-popped popcorn!

Wednesday, Jan. 20 - Performance by 2 Jolly Hearts... Enjoy the music of Elvis at 11 a.m.!

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SENIORS

AARP Volunteers to Help With Income Tax Returns In The Valley AARP tax-aide volunteers will prepare 2015 income tax returns for people 60 years and older and low-income residents. Listed are the locations where these taxes will be completed beginning Feb. 1, 2016: Center in The Woods, 130 Woodland Court, Brownsville, PA. 724-938-3554.

Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Center on The Hill: 100 Summit Road, Washington Township, Belle Vernon, PA. 724-930-8512. Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Perryopolis Senior Center, 403 Liberty Avenue, Perryopolis, PA. 724-736-2250.

Monday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Donora Public Library, 510 Meldon Avenue, Donora, PA. 724-379 -7940. Friday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Monessen Senior Center, 1925 Grand Blvd. Monessen, PA . 724-684-6105.

Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. - noon.

Rostraver Public Library, 700 Plaza Drive, Rostraver Township, Belle Vernon, PA. 724-379-5511. Wednesday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The taxpayer MUST make an appointment and bring last year’s tax return, all of their 2015 tax documents and the original stamped paid 2015 property tax receipts or a form from their landlord showing the amount of rent paid for 2015.

The completed returns will be filed electrically with the IRS and State.

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 and are able to complete your federal, state, local and property tax/rent rebate forms. If you only have a property tax rebate/rent rebate form to complete, please contact the site as to when a person from Mr. Dailey’s office will be at that location to complete this form. Appointments can be made starting January 4, 2016. If for any reason you have to cancel an appointment, call the site so that the slot may be filled with another client. For further information, Vera Klein can be reached by calling a center and they will forward your name and phone number to her.

Senior Luncheon Planned at Peters Twp. Community Center Luncheons are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 12 - 2 p.m.

At each luncheon, we provide entertainment, an interesting speaker, or interactive activity. This is a free event, but we ask that you bring a covered dish or dessert to share. Bring a friend to join in on the food, fun, and entertainment!

January 13, 2016 – Nutrition with Robin: Overcoming Information Overload February 10, 2016 - George Suhan (Bring your dancing shoes!)

March 9, 2016 – “Maintain Your Brain” by Kevin Kramer, owner of Silver Scholars April 13, 2016 – Spring Bingo & Free Blood Pressure Screenings Noon - 2 p.m. Fee: Free

Save the Date!

Center on the Hill Plans Chinese Auction, Bake Sale and Lunch Event Center on the Hill, 100 Summit Rd. Belle Vernon, will hold a Chinese auction, bake sale and lunch on Saturday, March 6, 2016 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Registration for tables will be open January 9, 2016. The cost is $15 per table. Contact Pat at 724-929-6366 for more information.

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YOUR HEALTH MVH to Present Wide-Awake Surgery Program Monongahela Valley Hospital continues its free “Innovations in Medicine” community programs with a talk on wide-awake surgery. Gerson Florez, M.D., orthopedic surgeon, will present “Innovations in Wide-Awake Surgery” on Jan. 12, 2016 at 6 p.m.

The program will be held in the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center.

Dr. Florez is a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon and board eligible orthopedic surgeon focusing on the elements of the shoulder, elbow and hand. He sees patients in The Orthopedic Group’s offices in Monongahela, Jefferson Hills, Mt. Lebanon and Uniontown.

The program and parking are free. To register, call 724-258-1333.

Pictured is Dr. Florez, a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon and board-eligible orthopedic surgeon focusing on the elements of the shoulder, elbow and hand.

Pow! BAM! BAM! mammogram!

Walk-in Mammograms — Every Monday No prescription needed WillowPointe Plaza 800 Plaza Drive, Suite 170 Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-379-1900 MM/MK-MVM/7-15

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HEALTH

Insights on your Emotional Health with Don Zandier, Psychologist

Feel Love Again When people first start dating and one partner buys the other a birthday present, the recipient is overjoyed, surprised and usually remarks, “You shouldn’t have!” They still realize and accept that their partners are not obligated to love them, but freely choose to do so.

However, after only a year or two, a sense of obligation sets in. Fears of abandonment or inequity squeeze the love out of the bond. Believe it or not, most of these emotional obstacles to an intimate relationship can be reduced or eliminated with just one application of the Enlight Emotional Cleansing Treatment.

Listen to what couples have to say about their relationship after receiving Enlight: “We would fight about anything, including who should answer the phone... now, it doesn’t cross our mind!”

“I don’t get upset often, and if I do, it doesn’t last any time at all!”

“I freely share how I feel and no longer harbor resentment.”

Have Enlight create a clean slate and feel true love again. Your relationship is worth it!

For more information, you can reach Don Zandier at 412-833-1800 or visit the website www.enlighttreatment.com

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Local Foundation Started by Cancer Survivor Benefits Melanoma Research at Allegheny Health Network The Pittsburgh Melanoma Foundation has selected Allegheny Health Network’s Howard Edington, MD, as recipient of its first major donation of $20,000, which will go toward the cancer research efforts of Dr. Edington and his AHN colleagues.

The Pittsburgh Melanoma Foundation was founded by Jessica Rogowicz of Peters Township, a patient of Dr. Edington’s who was diagnosed with melanoma in 2007 when she was still in her 20s and had a recurrence in 2011. Now cancer-free, she is the mother of two and a high school teacher.

Mrs. Rogowicz has made it her mission to lead an independent, grass-roots organization that provides annual support for melanoma care and research. A frequent user of tanning booths prior to her diagnosis, she has spoken publicly about her battle with melanoma in order to raise awareness and warn others about the dangers of tanning. Working alongside her to increase awareness is foundation co-director Lauren Simko, who lost her father, Joseph L. Vavrek, to Stage IV melanoma in May 2010, just 10 months after his diagnosis during a routine surgery.

The Pittsburgh Melanoma Foundation held its first two fund-raising events this year, a 5K Walk/Run in South Park and Sunscreen Open Golf Outing at Lake Arthur Golf Club in Butler.

“I was fortunate that my melanoma was found at an early stage, and also fortunate to be treated by someone as skilled and compassionate as Dr. Edington,” Mrs. Rogowicz said. “We are very happy to make this donation toward Dr. Edington’s research, in hopes that every melanoma patient can look forward to a cancer-free future.”

Dr. Edington is an internationally recognized surgical oncologist who specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancer and serves as Chair of the Department of Surgery at Allegheny Health Network. He has authored or co-authored more than 130 scientific articles, abstracts and book chapters, and delivered more than 100 scientific presentations and lectures at medical symposiums around the globe.

Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute physicians offer innovative approaches to common and rare skin cancers, with access to clinical trials and a personalized treatment plan geared toward curing the cancer while preserving as much healthy skin and tissue as possible.

“Melanoma is a less common but more dangerous form of skin cancer that spreads very easily and is likely to recur after treatment. The good news is that it is very treatable if caught early,” Dr. Edington said. “Jessica is doing valuable work, not only with the foundation’s contribution to research, but by raising awareness of melanoma’s risk factors, such as exposure to UV rays from the sun.”

More information about the foundation is available at melanomapgh.org.

Donations may also be sent to Pittsburgh Melanoma Foundation, P.O. Box 10380, Pittsburgh, PA 15234.

Is your child struggling with...

ADHD, Autism, Behavior Problems, Trouble Learning?

Call

724-850-7200

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HEALTH

MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL JANUARY EVENTS Monongahela Valley Hospital is sponsoring a variety of informative programs this month.

Many of the events will be held in the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center (ECC) unless otherwise noted.

JAN. 4 BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP - 2 – 4 p.m., Hospital, 7-East Family Room. This support group is free and open to all breast cancer patients and their families. The group meets the first Monday of each month. For more information, call 724-258-1704.

JAN. 5, 6 AND 7 MANAGING YOUR DIABETES - 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. ECC. This educational program is designed to help you with diabetes self-management.

You will learn, “What is diabetes?” Other topics include the importance of controlling your blood sugars, diabetes medications, lifestyle changes, meal planning and methods to reduce your risk of complications. To register, call 724-258-1483.

JAN. 7 IS WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY RIGHT FOR YOU? - 6 p.m., ECC. Bariatric surgery is an option for people wanting to lose 100 pounds or more. This free information session is designed to give those individuals struggling with weight loss the facts to choose their best option.

To learn if you are a candidate for this surgery, join Hiram Gonzalez, M.D., as he discusses this topic in detail. To register, call 724-258-1333.

JAN. 8 SOFT PRETZEL SALE - 9:30 a.m., Hospital, Main Lobby. Start your day with a twist. Purchase a Philly Pretzel Factory soft pretzel, but be quick — they sell out fast. Sponsored by the Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. For information, call 724-258-1167.

JAN. 12 RSDS SUPPORT GROUP 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., ECC. The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSDS) Support Group is free and open to all persons with RSDS or related illnesses.

For more information, call 724-929-9492.

JAN. 12 ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP - 6 p.m., ECC. This free support group meets the second Tuesday of each month. Reservations are requested by calling 724-258-1333.

JAN. 12 INNOVATIONS IN MEDICINE: WIDE-AWAKE SURGERY - 6 p.m., ECC. Gerson Florez, M.D., orthopedic surgeon, will discuss the latest advances in wide-awake surgery and its application as an alternative anesthesia choice for minor surgical procedures. To register, call 724-258-1333.

JAN. 13 ADVANCED CARBOHYDRATE COUNTING - 9 - 11 a.m., ECC. This program is a diabetes self-man-

agement class designed to educate you on how to count carbohydrate content of food to improve blood sugar control. Topics include how to track effects of carbohydrates and blood sugar, your glycemic index and how to read food nutrition labels. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start date of class by calling 724-258-1483.

JAN. 19, 20 AND 21 MANAGING YOUR DIABETES - 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. This educational program is designed to help you with diabetes self-management.

You will learn, “What is diabetes?” Other topics include the importance of controlling your blood sugars, diabetes medications, lifestyle changes, meal planning and methods to reduce your risk of complications. To register, call 724-258-1483.

JAN. 20 ARTHRITIS AND FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP - 1 – 3 p.m., ECC. The Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Support Group is free and open to all persons with arthritis, fibromyalgia or related illnesses and their families. For more information, call 724258-1321.

JAN. 21 OSTOMY SUPPORT GROUP – 2 – 3:30 p.m., ECC. This support group is free and open to all persons with ostomies and their families and friends. The group meets the third Thursday of every other month. For more information, call 724-258-1773.

JANUARY 22 FOURTH STREET BARBEQUE - 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Hospital Main Lobby. Enjoy wings, pulled pork, ribs and some special sides. This event is open to the public and takeout is available.

Sponsored by the Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. For more information, call 724-258-1167.

JAN. 26ADULT CPR INSTRUCTION - 6 - 9 p.m., ECC. Adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes are offered by Monongahela Valley Hospital in conjunction with Valley Health and Safety Training Center (VHSTC).

The $40 fee is payable to VHSTC and advance registration is required by calling 724-684-9536.

JAN. 28 STROKE SUPPORT GROUP - 1 – 3 p.m., ECC. The group meets the last Thursday of each month. For more information, call 724-258-1455.

JAN. 28 PUBLIC FIRST-AID INSTRUCTION - 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. Adult first aid classes are offered by the hospital in conjunction with Valley Health and Safety Training Center (VHSTC). The $30 fee is payable to VHSTC and advance registration is required by calling 724-6849536.

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Local Worship CHURCH News..CHURCH News..CHURCH News..CHURCH News..CHURCH News..

South Hills Assembly of God Church Upcoming Events South Hills Assembly of God Church is located at 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park, and can be reached at 412-835-8900 or www.southhillsassembly.org. Below are their upcoming events.

Life Recovery, confidential Christian recovery group for any addiction, open meeting, 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

A new session of Grief Share meets Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon OR 6:30-8:30 p.m. beginning January 7 through March 31. Find help for the grieving process through this Bible based support group. Class consists of DVD teaching, followed by time for discussion and sharing. Start anytime; return for any of the classes you missed. Registration is $15 and includes workbook.

HonorBound Men's Ministry will hold a free men's fellowship breakfast from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, January 9.

Enjoy breakfast, testimonies and fellowship, with a Biblical message for men.

Women of Excellence, hosted by Pastor Sue Willis, meets at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, January 12. Encouraging, equipping and empowering through the word of God; for women of all ages.

Theme: You! Area Kingdom Woman.

Light refreshments, fellowship, worship, the Word, and group discussion. Free childcare available if pre-registered with Sue at ext. 147.

Lunch Bunch Bible Study for adults meets from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, January 21. Cost is $6 and includes lunch. RSVP by January 19.

The Alpha Course runs for ten Fridays from 6 to 9:30 P.M. beginning January 22. A free dinner is provided, with DVD teaching and small group discussion to introduce the basics of Christianity. Alpha is for everyone, especially those investigating Christianity, newcomers to the church, new Christians and those who want to learn more. Call to register.

Gospel Women Prayer Group, a prayer and fellowship group led by

Marge Kubany, meets at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, January 28.

CommuniTea, a monthly women's Bible study/fellowship for all ages, meets from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, February 5. Hosted by Sue Willis with a variety of teachers/speakers. Theme: Favor. RSVP. Free childcare available if pre-registered with Sue at ext. 147.

Celebrate Recovery Meets at Crossroads Ministries Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered recovery program utilizing the 12 Steps with scripture comparisons and eight recovery principles based on the Beatitudes. By working and applying these Biblical principles, an avenue is created to free us of our addictive, compulsive, and dysfunctional behaviors. This freedom creates peace, serenity, joy, and most importantly, a stronger personal relationship with Jesus and others.

You may be thinking that recovery is just for those with alcohol or drug problems. This is not the case. As Pastor Rick Warren says, “We all have sinned, we’ve all fallen short, we’ve all been hurt, and we’ve all hurt others. Everybody needs recovery.”

All of life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups are addressed through this one curriculum. A hurt, habit, or hang-up is something that hinders your walk with God. The program is free and open to the public. It offers weekly support and is facilitated by trained leaders who have gone through a similar hurt, hang-up, or habit and offers a safe, confidential, and positive place to participate with other people looking for healing.

No registration is needed. There is no financial or commitment obligation.

The only requirement is a desire to come. The meetings are held on Friday nights beginning with dinner at 6 p.m.

For further information, please call Al Finney at 724-348-1620 x 110 or email al@crsmin.com.

Crossroads Ministries is located in Finleyville, one mile south of Trax Farms overlooking Mineral Beach.

‘Praise on the Mon’ Planned at First Presbyterian Church First Presbyterian Church, 609 Chess Street, Monongahela, is planning a ‘Praise on the Mon’ series. Casual worship with live music will be held each month on the second Sunday of the month beginning Sunday, January 10, 2016 at 5 p.m. Coffee and refreshments will be served at 4:45 p.m. You are also invited to stay for dinner!

We are a new outreach gathering in Jesus' name, open and welcoming to everyone, creating real community, and a place to ask questions and grow in faith together. If you have any questions, please call 724-986-3986

St. Nicholas Orthodox Church Celebrates Feast Days St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, 6th Street, Monongahela, has planned the following events: Christmas & Epiphany Celebration St. Nicholas Orthodox Church will observe Christmas, the Nativity of Christ with special services on January 7th. St. Nicholas is one of several Orthodox Churches in the Pittsburgh region that retains the use of the ancient Julian calendar in observing church feast days.

Services for the Nativity of Christ • Wednesday, January 6 8:30 a.m. Vespers and the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great 7 p.m. Great Compline and Matins • Thursday, January 7 10 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom Services for Epiphany • Monday, January 18 8:30 a.m. Vespers and the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great 6 p.m. Parish Holy Night Supper 7:30 Compline and the Great Blessing of Water Tuesday, January 19

• 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom Father Edward Pehanich and the parish family of St. Nicholas welcome all to join them in celebrating Christmas and Epiphany.

Gospel Alliance Church Upcoming Events Gospel Alliance Church is located on 1011 Fells Church Road in Belle Vernon, PA. Check us out on Facebook – Gospel Alliance Church At Gospel Alliance Church we have discovered that following Jesus is the most rewarding life you could ever experience. At GAC, we strive to be a place where you can build relationships, experience the presence and power of God in worship, be equipped by practical, life-changing teaching from God’s Word, and compassionately reach out to those that need Jesus just like us.

Gospel Alliance Church is a group of people from all walks of life, various ages, cultures, and experiences.

Wherever you are on your journey, you will be welcome at GAC. Sunday at a Glance: 8:00am | 9:30am | 11:00am Morning Worship Services 9:30am Awesome Adventures Sunday School, Little Adventures Nursery; Student Groups; & Adult Growth Groups 11:00am Awesome Adventures Children’s Church; Little Adventures Nursery; & Adult Growth Group Family Night Wednesday: 6:30pm Awesome Adventures AWANA [2 year olds – 6th grade] 6:30pm Little Adventures Nursery [birth-age 4] 6:30pm Student Youth Group [grades 6-12] 6:45pm Men’s Growth Group 6:45pm Woman’s Growth Group 6:45pm Adult Prayer Growth Group GriefShare: Those struggling with loss of a loved one are invited to come join this support group. A new session will start January 17.

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WORSHIP

Boston United Methodist Church Has Breakfast With Santa and Mrs. Claus

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St. Francis Christmas Concert a Huge Success

By Michelle Taylor Located in Elizabeth Township, Boston UM Church hosted their first annual breakfast with Santa and his wife. The men of the congregation served silver dollar pancakes and sausage links with milk and orange juice for the children and adults that attended.

As soon as breakfast was over, Santa and his wife made their grand appearance.

There were about 35 children signed up who ranged in age from newborn to 13 years old. Santa and his wife handed out candy-filled candy canes and coloring books and crayons wrapped in red and green paper.

While there was no fee for this event, they did ask for a donation to benefit the local Meals on Wheels program.

The church also plans on organizing an Easter Egg Hunt in the spring.

Children of all ages can't wait to tell Santa just what they want for Christmas.

The church staff: Front Row (l-r): Sherri McAlpine; Reverend Jack Piper; Mrs. Claus; Don Vitous; Bill Roman; Cheryl Kormas; Santa; Bonnie Hughes Back Row (l-r): Marge Popham; Joanie Ashton; Carol Vitous; Karen Prescott; Trudy Roman; Rich Kormos

The Too Many Tubas Community Band

By Paul Chasko An audience of about 200 got a big dose of Christmas spirit on December 13, as promised, at the annual St. Francis of Assisi Christmas concert. The nicelysized crowd attended the concert that lasted just over an hour.

The Advent program contained Christmas music by the St. Francis of The St. Francis Choir Assisi Choir, under the direction of St. Francis Music Director Chris Fiano, and the Too Many Tubas Community Band, directed by Paul and Dorothy Dolinar.

Nineteen seasonal musical selections were presented, interspersed by scriptural readings by Deacon Vic Satter. The combination of readings and music told the Christmas story in a unique way for the audience. Comments heard from attendees were very positive, which was gratifying for the members who put in many hours of practice learning new selections and polishing up some old favorites.

Solos and duets from the choir were handled by Ruth Gentile, Ron Broglie, Jim Valecko and Chuck Stewart. Paul Dolinar shared conduction of the band’s wind ensemble with R. Pantaleo, which also featured a vocal duet by band members Sylvia Bender and Dorothy Dolinar, accompanied by R. Pantaleo (keyboard) and R. Ricco (drums).

The concert was followed by a social with coffee, tea and lots of cookies furnished by the refreshment committee and contributors; all in all, it was a very nice evening.

Go to our website at www.messengerpaper.com for more photos of this event. Photos courtesy of Norma Chasko.

Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University Begins January 6 at Crossroads Ministries This 9-week, life-changing program teaches families and individuals to recognize the forces behind their financial distress and how to set things right financially, emotionally, and spiritually. It creates a greater understanding of “who we are, what our goals are, and how to reach them.”

Topics covered include: • Get Rid of Debt • Manage Your Money • Spend and Save Wisely "There is something for everyone in this program - whether you are barely mak-

ing ends meet; just trying to plan for retirement; or seeking to build wealth. No matter what your financial situation, FPU will help you get from where you are to where you’ve dreamed you can be.

You can sit in the preview class for free on January 6 at 6:30 p.m. Then, if you wish to continue, cost of materials needed is $99. However, there is no further charge for those who have attended FPU before and already own the materials.

Crossroads Ministries is located one mile south of Trax Farms. Please visit our website at www.crsmin.com. For further information, please call Audie Eddy at 724-366-7388.

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Recent Local Death Notices APITZSCH, Robert C., 85, of Bethel Park, died December 12. Arrangements

by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

ARTIS, Mary Booth, 72, of New Eagle, died November 3. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi.

BAKER, Sharon, 73, of Bethel Park, died on November 4. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

BECHTOLD, Elizabeth “Betty”, 93, of South Park, died December 5.

Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

BOYD, Ellsworth, 76, of New Eagle, died December 12. Arrangements by William Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle.

CAMPBELL, Eleanor J. “Honey”, 97, of The Palms @ O’Neil (formerly of Jefferson Hills), died November 26.

Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

CARTE, Luzetta, 83, of Bethel Park, died on November 7. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

CASSIDY, (Sarver), Dolores, 88, of Jefferson Hills, died December 14.

Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

CASSIDY, Timothy J., 62, of West Mifflin, died November 6. Arrangements

by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

CLEGG, James R. Jr., 55, of Donora, died November 19. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

COLL, James “Jim”, 66, of Jefferson Hills, died December 13. Arrangements

by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

DeMAIO, Carolyn (Duke), 74, of Mt. Lebanon (formerly of Bethel Park), died November 21.

Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

DETTLINGER, Rachel M., 79, of Baldwin Borough, died November 19.

Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

DIXON, James J., 86, of Finleyville, died November 22. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

DOTSON, Jason, 31, formerly of Bethel Park, died November 16. Arrangements

by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

DOTY, Evelyn, 93, of Bethel Park, died

on November 28. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

DREW, James, 93, of Bethel Park, died on December 8. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

ENTINGER, Paul M., 72, of Baldwin, died December 2. Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

FASTUCA, Margaret, 89, of Bethel Park, died on November 25. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

FEDOR, Patricia Ann, 68, of South Park, died November 17. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

FLORIG, Harry C., 83, of Upper St. Clair, died November 26. Arrangements

by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

FROSINI, Timothy, 57, of Finleyville, died November 17. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

FULLER, Frances Gey, 87, of Baldwin Borough, died December 3.

Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

GREENLIEF, Margaret B. “Maggie”, 94, of California, PA, died November 25.

Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

GULLI, Carol (Doring), 76, of West Mifflin (formerly of South Park), died December 15. Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

HOLOHAN, John F. “Jack” Jr., 78, of Pleasant Hills, died December 2.

Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

JURY, Cindy M., 52, of Finleyville, died November 29. Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

KENNEDY, Norman C., 86, of Monongahela (Carroll Township), died November 25. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

KLINE, Mildred L., 75, of Monessen, died November 7. Arrangements by William Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle.

KROLL, Dennis J., 57, formerly of Jefferson Borough, died November 25.

Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

KURTZROCK, Mildred M. “Rusty”, 86, of Bethel Park, died December 5.

Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant

Hills.

LABOON, Joseph J., 87, of Baldwin Borough, died December 2.

Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

LACHMAN, Harold, 90, of Bethel Park, died November 28. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

MACOSKO, Mary Lou, 66, of Jefferson Hills, died December 8. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

MAIELLA, Jane, 97, of Jefferson Hills, died December 10. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

MANCINELLI, Martha Jane (Tomlinson), of Monongahela (Victory Hill), died November 22. Arrangements

by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

MANKO, Barbara J., 88, of Finleyville, died November 18. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

MEADOWS, Harvey “Scott”, 92, of Jefferson Hills, died November 19.

Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

MEGELA, Christopher J., 42, of Donora, died November 1.

Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

MISANIK, Joseph J., 69, of New Eagle, died November 29. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

MONCHECOURT, Rose Fazzoni, 89, formerly of Charleroi, died December 14.

Arrangements by Carl J. Spallino Funeral Home in Charleroi.

MURPHY, George H. “Bud”, 88, of Farmington (formerly of South Park), died November 27. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

NICOLAUS, Francis “Frank” Joseph, 74, of Fallowfield Township, died November 27. Arrangements by Carl J. Spallino Funeral Home in Charleroi.

OLIVERIO, John, 82, of Finleyville (formerly of South Park), died November17.

Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

PEPPEL, Harry R., 77, of Fallowfield Township, died December 13.

Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi.

RAGO, Anthony L., 95, of Upper St. Clair, died December 13. Arrangements

by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and

Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

RENQUIST, Joan E., 81, of Clairton, died November 23. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

ROSSELL, Blayre Mark, 34, of California, PA, died November 16.

Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe.

ROZIK, Lucienne “LuLu” M., 93, of New Eagle, died November 28.

Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

SHAFFER, Audrey, 75, of Bethel Park, died on December 1. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

SHAFFER, Timothy, 92, of Bethel Park, died on December 5. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

SILER, Francis A., 78, of West Mifflin, died December 10. Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

SKVAREK, Helen M., 94, formerly of California, PA, died November 3.

Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe.

SOBOSLAY, Antoinette “Toni” (Vigliotti), 74, of North Huntingdon (formerly of Fisher Heights), died November 2. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

STETZ, Lois Ilene, 91, of Charleroi, died December 15. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi.

STOUT, Chuck, 67, of Jefferson Hills, died December 10. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

SUHY, Robert, 76, of Bethel Park, died November 14. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

SUNDAY, Gwendolyn, 42, of Baldwin Borough, died November 18.

Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. in South Park Township.

VERES, Milan Joseph, 97, of Charleroi, died November 29. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi.

WILSON, Albert Thomas, 81, of Bethel Park, died on November 9.

Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

WILSON, Walter C., 82, of Pleasant Hills, died December 11. Arrangements

by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

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Entertainment Automotive PUMP the P U VOLU

by Mandy Withers-Kozlowski

ME!

Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot!

JANUARY BALTIMORE HOUSE

ROY’S BY THE TRACKS

412-653-9332 176 Curry Hollow Rd., Pleasant Hills Wednesdays – Live Acoustic Thursdays – Karaoke

724-348-7118 3710 Rt. 88, Finleyville Sundays – Karaoke Wednesdays – Karaoke w/ Brett Saturdays – Karaoke

New Year!

4 – Paint. Laugh. Party.

7 – Open Jam Night 8 p.m.

15 – Mike Medved 8 p.m.

18 – Paint. Laugh.

Party.

DENNY’S ROADHOUSE 21 – Open Jam Night 724-258-6232 8 p.m.

3431 Rt. 136, Finleyville 23 – The Mimi Lee (Corner of Ginger Hill Band 8 p.m.

Rd. & Rt. 136) 29 – Todd Jones 9 p.m.

Mondays – Saturdays Exotic/Lingerie HEY, ANDY SPORTSBAR Barmaids AND LOUNGE 6 p.m. – 2 a.m.

724-258-4755 1221 W. Main St., E&E CLUB Monongahela 412-835-9935 22 – Chilz 6495 2nd Ave., 23 – Bill Ali South Park Wednesdays – THE HUNTING LODGE Pool League 724-348-7984 Sundays – Free Pool 3529 Washington Ave., Finleyville ELRAMA TAVERN Fridays – Free Juke 412-384-3630 Box 8 p.m.- close 1520 Rt. 837, Elrama Saturdays – Free Juke 1 – Closed – Happy Box 8 p.m. - close

THE TROLLEY STOP INN

412-835-9600 6247 Library Rd., Bethel Park Fridays – Magician Jason Christopher 7 - 9 p.m.

VALLEY HOTEL

412-233-9800 1004 New England Hollow Rd., Jefferson Boro (Intersection of 837/ Coal Valley Rd.) Fridays – Open Stage Night - all musicians welcome

ATTENTION: LOCAL BARS, RESTAURANTS, & NIGHTCLUBS If you would like to be included in the monthly “PUMP UP THE VOLUME” section to promote and list your bands, please send us your list of performances each month. There is no fee for this listing. Fax: 412-249-8177 or e-mail: mandy@messengerpaper.com

Complete Automotive Service State Inspection & Emissions Station Used Parts / Towing & Roadside Assistance

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

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Library News BALDWIN BOROUGH PUBLIC LIBRARY

JEFFERSON HILLS PUBLIC LIBRARY

41 Macek Dr. #115, Pittsburgh, PA 15227 412-885-2255 Balwinborolibrary.org Technology and Marketing Librarian: Pam Calfo

925 Old Clairton Road.

Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412-655-7741 w w w.jeffersonhillslibrary.org PR/ Event Coordinator: Jane Milner

For a complete list of programs, please visit baldwinborolibrary.org or call the library at 412-885-2255.

All programs/events are held in the Borough of Jefferson Hills Municipal Center, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills.

Register on line at Event Keeper - www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org.

Itsy Bitsy Yoga Series We are pleased to announce we’re hosting Itsy Bitsy Yoga on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. from January 11 through February 29. We are so excited to bring this unique class to our library! A certified yoga instructor from South Hills Power Yoga will be offering discounted classes. Begin a healthy new year, share yoga practice with your child and connect with a community of parents and caregivers! This unique 45-minute session includes a flow through seated & standing poses, along with stories, playtime and songs. Bring your little one, a mat and a blanket. This class is recommended for children 3 & under, siblings welcome.

No prior registration is required to attend. Cost is $6 a class (includes a caregiver and up to 2 children) payable at time of arrival.

Taste of the Library Series: National Chili Day Thursday, Jan. 21 @ 1 p.m.

Sample two delicious chilis and cornbread as part of our ‘Taste of the Library’ series sponsored by Kathleen Frickanish from Arrowood at Southwestern and Tara Rush from Amedisys Home health. Registration required.

Once Upon a Wednesday Wednesdays @ 10:30 a.m. January 13 - April 27 Children can let their imaginations soar at our new fairytale program! Each week, a new fairy tale will be introduced as well as an accompanying craft! This creative program is geared for ages 4 and under, but all are welcome to attend! No registration required.

YOGA – Beginners and Intermediate Wednesday evenings beginning January 6 - 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Saturday morning - 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Instructor: Linda Frost We continue to learn the basics and advantages of YOGA exercise. This class is for the beginner or intermediate YOGA student. Bring a mat to class.

Tuition is $5 per session or $7 if you attend both weekly sessions.

Zumba Fitness Monday evenings beginning January 11, No class February 15 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Instructor: Emily McCowan Zumba classes feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats. Increase your energy and fitness levels. Join us for an easy to do, effective and totally exhilarating exercise. Tuition $5 per session Eating Healthy Starting Today!

Tuesday evening January 21 7 to 8 p.m.

Instructor: Mark Davis This is a class that will benefit many of us as we struggle to combat the added calories gained by our Holiday eating.

Dietitian/Nutritionist Mark Davis from Jefferson Hospital will help us get back ontrack for a healthy weight to avoid disease and obesity.

The Turkish Art of Marbling (EBRU) Saturday Afternoon January 23 1 to 3 p.m.

Cost for materials is $30 Marbling is the art of creating colorful

patterns by sprinkling and brushing color pigments on a pan of oily water and then transforming this pattern to paper.

Registration is required by January 15.

Scrabble Club Meets Tuesdays from noon - 4 p.m.

Winter Story Times Children ages 3 and up enjoy a story, craft, and snack.

Thursdays 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. and 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.

January 14 – Penguins on Parade January 21 – Fables and Rhymes January 28 –* STEM TogetherEngineering a Snowman

DONORA PUBLIC LIBRARY 510 Meldon Avenue Donora, PA 15033 724-379-7940 w w w.washlibs.org/donora Director: Donnis Headley

All programs are free of charge. For more details, come in or contact us!

Hours of Operation: Mondays – Thursdays – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Fridays – 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Board Meeting: Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at 6 p.m.

Story Time: Miss Angie will be having Story Time the following Fridays in January: 8, 15, 22 and 29. She is thinking up new and fun activities for the children. If you would like to join her and the other children but are not signed up yet, you still have time. You can call or come anytime the Library is open and sign up!

Lego Club: Miss Angie will also hold Lego Club on the Saturday Jan. 9th at 1:30 p.m.

Space is still available if you would like to sign up and join us for some creative thinking and building.

Knitting & Crochet: Knitting and Crochet Club will be held on the following Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 14th and Jan. 28th.

Bridge Club: Bridge Club will also meeting on the following Thursdays at 3 p.m. – Jan. 14th

and 28th.

Book Club: This month the book club will be reading One Breath Away by Heather Gudenkauf.

All Clubs still have space available if you would like to join. You may join by coming in and signing up or by calling and we would be happy to sign you up.

MONESSEN PUBLIC LIBRARY 326 Donner Ave., Monessen, PA 15062 724-684-4750 w w w.monessenlibrary.org L i b r a r y D i r e c t o r : D a v e Z i lk a

Children’s Coordinator Position Open Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center is seeking an individual to fill the position of Children’s Coordinator. The position will be 20 hours per week at a pay rate of $12 per hour. Evening and Saturday hours are required.

Applicants must be highly motivated to work with children and teens. Applicants must also possess outstanding social and communication skills as well as some working knowledge of technological devices.

For a detailed job description and application please contact Dave at 724684-4750. Applicant must provide on date of hire at own expense the following three required clearances: PA State Police Criminal Record Check; PA Child Abuse History Clearance; and FBI fingerprint-based background check. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2016.

Technology Classes The Library will offer technology classes in the month of January, 2016.

Gina McGrath, who is the Technology Director for the Westmoreland YWCA, will be teaching technology classes on the following date: • Saturday, January 16, 2016, 10-12 p.m. - “Keeping up with Technology”. Gina will provide updates in the world of technology and devices.

• Saturday, January 16, 2016, 1-3 p.m. - “Smartphones”. Gin a will focus only on Smartphones.

• Monday, January 25, 2016, 10-12 p.m. - “Q & A, Bring Your Own

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LIBRARY NEWS

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LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..

Devices”. Bring any technological device, and Gina will assist you in making it work!

Graphic Novel Collection Expanded The Library has greatly expanded the graphic novel collection! A graphic novel is a work that tells a story using comic strips and is published as a book.

Graphic novels can be enjoyed by all ages! Stop by and browse through the collection.

Other News…

Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center will be closed on January 1, 2 and 18.

If you need some good reading material during the winter season, please remember the Library has an ongoing book sale featuring fiction and nonfiction works. Hardbacks are fifty cents and paperbacks are twenty-five cents. What a bargain!

Weekly Preschool Storytime sessions are on winter break until February.

In the meantime, the Children’s Room has many new Easy Reader or Juvenile books that can be checked out and read at home or in the Library.

Due to the Martin Luther King holiday on Monday, January 18, 2016, the Mon Valley Genealogy Forum will not meet.

The Monessen Veterans Council and Dave Zilka, Director of Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center, have announced that the Monessen Military Banner Tribute program will be ending on February 29, 2016. Applications for a banner will only be accepted through February 29, 2016. Any applications received after February 29, 2016 CANNOT and WILL NOT be accepted or filled. Please call the Library at 724-684-4750 for further information.

MONONGAHELA AREA LIBRARY 813 W. Main St., Monongahela, PA 15063 724-258-5409 w w w.washlibs.org/monongahela Library Director: Tiffany Jean Fleet

Story Time will be offered at two times through the end of January on Tuesdays at 11 and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Story time is designed for children ages 30 months to 5 years old. Ms. Becky reads to the children and then completes

a craft with them.

Beginning Tuesday, January 5th at 6 p.m., Monongahela Area Library will host a weekly Color Me Happy Hour.

Designed for adults, this is a relaxing hour of creative coloring. We provide free coloring pages of varying complexity as well as crayons, colored pencils, and markers. Come relax and create with us!

You may bring refreshments if you desire.

Book Bites will meet on Thursday, December 21st at 1 p.m. The book for January is The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman. All are welcome. If you plan to join in on the discussion and would like the library to get a copy of the book for you, please call us so we can reserve a copy for you.

The Writers Club will meet on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. All are welcome. If you are new to the club, please call to make sure they are meeting that day.

Please note…Monongahela Area Library will be collecting items on behalf of Washington County Farm Bureau to help the Washington County Food Bank beginning the first of February.

We are collecting flour, sugar, sweetener, canned and dried soups, hot and cold cereals, oatmeal, cake mixes, instant pudding, condiments, canned fruits and veggies, pastas, sauces, canned/dried meats and seafood, dried fruits and vegetables, non-fat dried milk, cleaning supplies, detergent, paper products, and personal hygiene items. The collection drive will continue through the end of March.

PLEASANT HILLS PUBLIC LIBRARY 302 Old Clairton Road Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412-655-2424 w w w.pleasanthillslibrary.org Library Directo r: Sharon Julian-Milas

Did Santa leave a ukulele under your tree? Free ukulele lessons offered every Monday from 10:30 to 12 p.m. in the Program Room. Peggy Krall leads the group in simple chords and songs. Bring your enthusiasm and your own ukulele.

New members are welcome to join the Murder and Mayhem Mystery Book Club at 1 p.m. on Monday, January 4 to discuss In the Bleak Midwinter by Julia Spencer-Fleming.

When a newborn baby is left at the church door, the search for the mother leads to murder. Extra copies of the book are available at the front desk. Also serving desserts “to die for.”

Join Miss Terry on Tuesday, January 5 at 7 p.m. for Baby Book Nook. Enjoy nursery and action rhymes, songs, books, and so much more! For children ages birth - 2 years old, with a caregiver.

The Conversation Salon will meet Friday, January 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. The group provides an opportunity to participate in lively discussions on a variety of topics. Newcomers always welcome.

The Writers Group meets on Tuesday, January 12 at 6:30 p.m. to offer support, encouragement, constructive suggestions and creative writing exercises for professional authors and those writing for their own enjoyment. New members welcome.

Book Talk will feature a review of the book, Montana: The Biography of Football’s Joe Cool by Keith Dunnavant on Friday, January 15 at 10:30 am.

Presented by Dr. Jack Aupperle.

An Adult Coloring De-stress Therapy Workshop will be held Wednesday, January 13 at 6:30 p.m.

Bring your coloring books and watercolor pens or pencils. Coloring sheets and pens will be available at the workshop for those without their own supplies. Enjoy the relaxation, therapeutic, and healing aspects of coloring, as well as the opportunity for creative expression.

Registration requested.

Bring a friend or two and join Miss Terry for Taco Tuesday for a lively discussion of Inkheart by Cornelia Funke and delicious snacks! Request a copy of this month’s selection at the circulation desk. For students in grades 6 - 12.

Due to scheduling conflicts the February Murder & Mayhem Mystery Book Club will meet on Monday, January 25 at 1 p.m. to discuss Ice Cold

by Tess Gerritson. Dr. Isles if feared dead in the remote abandoned village of Kingdon Come, and Jane must investigate the truth of Maura’s fate. Beat the winter cold and warm up with a good murder mystery.

The Book Group meets at 7 p.m.

Monday, January 25 to discuss Every Last One by Anne Quindlen, a novel about facing up to the things we fear most. Extra copies available at the front desk. Newcomers welcome.

ROSTRAVER PUBLIC LIBRARY 700 Plaza Drive, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-379-5511 w w w.rostraverlibrary.org Library Director: Ruth Ann Zupan

The Rostraver Public Library will show an animated movie called “All Creatures Big and Small” on Saturday, January 2, at 1 p.m. The G-rated film is the story of a couple of Nestrians sneaking on an ark when a flood is coming.

“Overdrive Over Easy” will be offered on Monday, January 4 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. for those who want to learn how to use the library’s e-book and eaudio loaning system. Please sign up in advance at the library or by calling 724379-5511.

The library is kicking off “Chill Out at the Library” on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fight off cabin fever by coming to the library to play cribbage, Monopoly, do puzzles and relax. The weekly program begins on January 11 with adult coloring and cocoa. Other activities will be offered but this is a chance to try out the latest fad of adult coloring books.

The Knitters Group meets on Tuesdays alternating afternoon and evening sessions. Please call the library at 724-379-5511 for the meeting schedule.

The library has a book club which meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. New members are always welcome.

“Time to Get Techie” is a weekly tutorial to teach novice computer users how to use basic computer skills.

Monday, January 11 at 1 p.m., the topic is “How to Use Search Engines,” January 18 is “Sign Up for Email,” and “Tablet Talk” is on January 25.

E-mail your Library News to: news@ messengerpaper.com

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LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..LIBRARY News..

WHITEHALL PUBLIC LIBRARY 100 Borough Park Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412-882-6622 w w w.whitehallpubliclibrary.org Public Relations: Sue Stiffey

Something New! - The library has purchased 21 Playaway Launchpads for the children’s collection. A Playaway Launchpad is a secure, pre-loaded learning tablet just for kids. They are fun, safe and educational! Next time you’re in the Children’s Library look for the orange cases, as each tablet is labelled with the age, grade and theme for each device. All of the pre-loaded apps are listed on the back. The tablets are secure; no content can be downloaded, so parents/caregivers don’t have to worry. Check ‘em out!

Suit Yourself: The Card Game Group - Monday January 4 @ 12-3 p.m.

Start the week with a full deck…of cards!

Join this game group for an afternoon of fun card games and good company. We’ll meet weekly in our Second Chapter Café to enjoy 500 and other trick-taking games in a nice atmosphere fit for a King!

(Or at least a Jack.) No registration required. Questions? Call Brandon at 412-882-6622.

Autism Support Group - Tuesday January 5 @ 7 p.m.

This monthly program serves as a meeting place and support group for those whose lives are touched by autism and autistic loved ones. The group focuses on open sharing and presentations by educators and experts as moderated by Heidi Hess of the Autism Society of Pittsburgh.

We meet on the first Tuesday of the month. No registration required.

The Bridge Connection: Card Lessons with Kathy Depuy - Wednesday January 6 @ 1 p.m.

Join the library for a six-week course that will help you to “bridge” that gap and become a star player yourself. Kathy DePuy, councilmember and advanced player, will teach you the ins and outs of contract bridge –a game of dealings, auctions, declarers and ranks! What better place to learn this game in than the City of Bridges! Refreshments will be provided. Registration required.

Matinée in the Café! - Friday January 8

@ 1:15 p.m.

Stop by the Second Chapter Cafe and join other adults to watch a different film each week! No registration required.

Space is limited.

PETERS TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY 616 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724-941-9430 • www.ptlibrary.org Library Director: Pier Lee

Peters Township Public Library Aims to Help Patrons Improve Their Health Literacy Peters Township Public Library, along with other libraries statewide, is powering Pennsylvania’s future by helping persons improve their health literacy and manage their own and their family’s wellbeing; empower them to be effective partners with their healthcare providers; and live longer, more productive lives.

To support this initiative, patrons can hear key facts about the new health insurance options at Finding Health Coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace on Monday, January 4, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Peters Township Public Library. Register to attend by emailing programs@ptlibrary.org, visit the circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

Courtney Emrick, Outreach and

Enrollment Specialist, Cornerstone Care, Washington, PA, will present information to better enable you to find a quality health insurance plan that meets your needs and budget. A variety of topics to help you navigate the Health Exchange will be discussed, including: “What Determines Health Insurance Premiums” and “What Qualifies Individuals and Families for Advanced Premium Tax Cuts, and Cost Sharing Reductions”. Ms. Emrick will also explain the differences between the 5 plan categories available – Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Catastrophic – and how a geographic area impacts the plans.

Information about penalties for noncompliance will also be explained.

Following the program, Emrick will remain to answer questions and arrange for individual appointments at Cornerstone Care for those who request a private consult.

Cornerstone Care is a non- profit Community Health Center and one of the Certified Appointment Counselors ready to help Pennsylvania Libraries reach out to their patrons and their communities to apply for health insurance on the www.healthcare.gov website.

This program is being offered as part of PA Forward, a new initiative of the Pennsylvania Library Association.

Please visit www.ptlibrary.org for a complete list of Library programs for all ages.

Monongahela High School Class of 1960 Makes Library Donation Judy Lomago presents a donation check to Monongahela Area Library Director Tiffany Fleet. The donation was made in memorial of the deceased members of the Monongahela High School Class of 1960.

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Home & Garden HINT FOR HOMEOWNERS

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News Of Older Houses (NAPSI)—Older homes often have a unique charm—but few have insulation that meets modern energy efficiency standards. This can result in air leaks, wasted energy and high utility bills. One way to fix this is with spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation.

It can be seamlessly added in and around walls, attics and roofs. By sealing cracks, seams and joints, some SPF products provide a waterproof membrane that acts as a vapor and air barrier, which in addition to insulating improves energy efficiency. A properly insulated home can reduce heating and cooling needs by 30 percent, according to the Department of Energy.

Many homeowners don’t realize that the attic is one of the main places where heat and cold air can escape. As the Department of Energy explains, holes in a typical attic account for 15 percent of a home’s energy loss. Cracks and gaps let air out and rainwater in. SPF can fill in around the cracks to create an effective barrier.

You can learn more at www.whysprayfoam.org. Savings vary. Find out why in the seller’s fact sheet on R-values. Higher R-values mean greater insulating power.

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller BALDWIN BOROUGH Estate of Marguerite Goller Veronica Holzapfel Vera Stojanoff K. Philip Kibler Estate of Richard Horn Jesse Sheaffer Martin Schmotzer Housing & Urban Development Richard Dudiak trustee Converge Real Estate LLC $144,900.

Alice Joseph et al.

Estate of Joseph Beleski Catherine Swallow Evan Dalzell Michael Shaughnessy James Madine et al.

Urban Financial America LLC US Bank NA trustee James Saitta

Buyer

Address

Thomas and Renee Koerbel Hari Adhikari Tetiana Moskalova and Roy Hollingsworth Timothy and Veronica Holzapfel Nanci Gauss and Anthony Clowser Shannon Nix William and Cynthia Erny Pittsburgh Property Girls LLC Rabilal and Dharmendra Darji Samantha Regney

5275 Becky Drive 112 Julie Drive 461 Macassar Drive 2795 Soulier St. 1448 Agnes Road 511 Rosewood Drive 7 Scholar Drive 4809 Gardenville Road 509 Penn St. 5125 Springdale Drive

Donna Kuhn Tulasi and Januka Phuyel Matthew Charles Boyko and Sarah Elizabeth Wells Stephen and Margaret Bostocky Thomas Och Marc Dlugos Mary Coleman Carla and Scott Brandt Stephen Strawn

701 Tyler Drive 832 Brentview Drive 2822 Castleview Drive 1113 Edward Drive 428 Jenne Drive 201 Joseph St. 433 Macassar Drive 416 Middle St. 68 Walton Road

Price

Now t r a n s find Real comm a c t i o n s f r Stats o u www. nity on ou m y o u r mess enger r website! p Real E Search aper.com. our state and fi Transactio n n archiv d current s page an ed ho me sa d les.

$92,000. $160,000. $115,900. $149,000. $150,000. $126,197. $65,000. $65,000. $164,900. $107,000. $111,000. $148,000. $153,000. $150,000. $53,200. $65,000. $25,300. $154,900.

BALDWIN TOWNSHIP Estate of Nicholas Kapp Timothy Paul Srsic Roberta A aka Braydel Nello Coccagno

Jessica Katze Richard and Barbara Ripley Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Cleath Properties L.P.

510 Edgeridge Drive Klein Place 438 Pearce Road 440 Pearce Road

BENTLEYVILLE Richard Yoest Jr.

Anthony Amadei

102 Level St.

$100,000.

BETHEL PARK Julia Rakes Rodney Tilgner

David and Andrea Griffith Richard Torris II

2638 Broad St. 1138 Greenbrier Drive

$62,000. $145,000.

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Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

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$118,000. $85,000. $5,206 by sheriff’s deed. $105,000.

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Three Simple DIY Wood Projects That Will Make A Big Impact In Any Room (NAPSI)—By picking the right pieces to refresh and choosing colors that make a statement, smaller projects can end up making a lasting impact.

An Unexpected Pop of Color. Make any room come to life in an unpredictable way by adding a bright color to an ordinary piece of furniture. Minwax® Water Based Wood Stain is the perfect choice for a variety of projects like an end table or your child’s headboard. It is available in 40 different colors. First, apply Minwax® Water Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to the wood prior to staining to ensure even stain color penetration and reduce grain raising on both soft and hardwoods. Then apply the stain in the color of your choice. Topcoat with Minwax® Polycrylic® Protective Finish for long-lasting beauty and protection.

Show Off Your Artsy Side. Create decor that you will be proud of and want to show off. One simple way to do this is to create a wood art project to use as wall decor. Whether you create a wooden frame for a prized photo or a trendy wooden sign, use Minwax® Wood Finishing Cloths to complete your project. They are easy-to-use cloths that come pre-moistened with stain and fin(Continued on page 54

HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller Vernon Rudolph trustee et al.

Kelly Bird Jeanine Minucci Wesley Spectrum Services Baptist Road Assoc. L.P. Jack Wilson Richard Welsh estate et al.

Michael Grant Matthew Olson Brookfield Relocation Inc. Cory Thieshen Estate of Theresa Bebout William Sweeny Lawrence William Grone Thomas Rogan Lance Baxendell Bethel Park School District Brandon Wedde Baptist Road Assoc. L.P. Kenneth Payne Branton Properties LLC William Szott Estate of Leona Bialecki Emily Stehura Kinesh Doshi Estate of Florence Kail Christina McVicker et al.

Anita Miller Estate of Margaret Calano Lori Farnsworth Brian Homes Inc. Maria Nychis Murray Ronald Lenneman Anthony Hlister Jerry Bitner Roberto Darocha Marian Volpatti Cool Springs Assoc. L.P. James Cox Stone Financing LLC Jeffrey Hodgson Evan Sivetz Justin Pasquinelli Robert Paul Vincler Baptist Road Assoc. L.P. Thomas Bametzrieder Jr.

Buyer

Address

Peter Santos and Colleen McCullum 55 Highland Road 504 Marie Mummert 53 Highland Road Unit 504 Ashley and Sean Michael Conroy 150 Iron Run Road Sam and Ann Leopar 6027 Library Road NVR Inc. 2015 Millennium Court Edward and Rita Kuehn 1523 Richard Drive Shannon and Karen Perry 292 Rocky Ridge Road Michael Anthony and Ashley Lynn O’Shea 2211 Superior St. Michael and Patricia Pucci 909 Timberidge Drive Stone Financing LLC 2792 Tischler Road Federal National Mortgage Assn.

2349 Wells Drive and Oregon Trail Lawrence and Carole Mack 359 Allendale Drive Michael Gregory and Nicolette Felix 5504 California Ave. Elyse Hall and Andrew Milliron 6181 Dalmation Drive John and Paula Boles 5854 Dashwood Drive Brian Johnston and Brieann Fink 1653 Forestview Drive Bethel Park Retirement Living Properties 5851 Keystone Drive Joshua and Samantha Lee 5380 Library Road NVR Inc. 2057 Millennium Court RHO Enterprises LLC 6012 Oak Park Drive Lance and Whitney Meeker 5195 Priscilla Drive John David Melcher 3551 Ridgeway Drive Joshua and Heather Dillon 5752 Smith Drive Jeff and Erica Stewart 106 Bluestone Drive Paul Sporter and Daniela Faloon 155 Bluestone Drive Ralph and Patricia Catola 6165 Boxer Drive Christina McVicker 5947 Dublin Road David and Leslie Durofchalk 1370 Falla Drive Kimberly Manns 53 Highland Road Apt 307 Stepehn Hozella 2114 Hillcrest St. Julie Dulski 104 Kendall Lane Mary Jo Rose 5493 Library Road Michelle Elizabeth Rusnak & Robert Lawrence Rus. 3946 Mimosa Drive Douglas and Elizabeth McClain 801 Berrington Court Gerard and Vanessa Furey 5979 Bethel Park Drive Daniel Bosi 787 Boulder Drive Catherine Kramer 2707 Center St. KJ Bethel Park LLC Cool Springs Drive William and Laura Paull 5947 Dashwood Drive David Imperio 1053 Hamlin Drive Clayton and Marissa Blum 2106 Hillcrest St. Randall Ashworth 5482 Library Road Christopher Baker and Lindsay Vogel 2510 Lytle Road Patrick and Kathryn Clark 326 Marshall Road NVR Inc. 2023 Millennium Court Jason Clobes and Christina Lopano 5615 Saddlebrook Drive

Price $104,000. $110,000. $305,000. $130,000. $83,000. $153,000. $282,000. $124,900. $111,000. $217,237. $2,379 by sheriff’s deed. $233,000. $146,500. $170,000. $160,000. $259,900. $700,000. $144,990. $83,000. $67,000. $250,000. $115,000. $164,900. $232,500. $291,250. $130,000. $18,250. $214,000. $128,500. $124,900. $114,000. $130,000. $254,000. $185,000. $179,900. $211,000. $172,500. $3,450,000. $215,000. $218,000. $105,000. $136,000. $167,500. $260,000. $88,000. $411,000.

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Three Simple DIY Wood Projects That Make A Big Impact (Continued from page 52)

ish—even gloves are included!

Minwax® Wood Finishing Cloths make completing a wood finishing project quick and convenient.

Bring the Outdoors In. A simple way to liven a room is by bringing nature in with flowers or plants. Create a colorful indoor planter box that doubles as wall decor. To ensure even stain color penetration and reduce grain raising, start by applying a coat of Minwax® Water Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to a lightweight unfinished planter box.

Then stain the wood with Minwax® Water Based Wood Stain in a bright hue such as Daffodil to add a splash of color to the room. Topcoat your project with Minwax® Polycrylic® Protective Finish. Once the finish dries, fill the box with your favorite potted flowers or indoor plants.

For more information and tips on how to stain, visit www.minwax.com or www.Pinterest.com/Minwax.

HOME & GARDEN

January 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address 5741 Scenic View Drive 3513 Thornwood Drive

Price

Richard Rose John J Sobczak Family Trust

Charles and Hali Hindermyer Michael Linz

$220,000. $170,000.

BRENTWOOD Timothy Peters Gary Cuda Christiana Trust Citizens Bank Pennsylvania Joan Barone Estate of Wilton Francis Starzynski

Kaitlin and Joshua Porter Bernard and Annette Smith Jewan and Bee Rai Symmetry Estates LLC Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

AN Properties LLC

Michael Felix Michael Kraemer Linda Delbianco Chaoqing Yang Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Semplice Properties LLC Estate of Mary Jernstrom Todd Trainor Greater Pgh Habitat for Humanity

Sandy and Maria Gardner Saltovka LLC Zachery Pilarski and Alison Bertolina Saltovka LLC AK Homes & Development Group LLC Zachary Galia Scott and Jill Startari Aric Wandorff and Tabatha Dorman Hsar Moo and Sar Ka Nyaw

CARROLL TOWNSHIP Gloria Ann Kles Ruth Spencer et al.

Estate of Dolores Yates Deborah Lynn Bogdan Itama Development Assoc. L.P. Matthew Rancosky

William and Roseann Melious Daniel and Erin Vandermer Michael Melvin Citimortgage Inc. Armadillo Development LLC Christopher Casteel

1622 Boundary St. 136 Prosser Drive 927 Route 837 1927 Route 2023 Unknown Address 18 Avery Lane

$156,350. $145,000. $26,000. $1,398 by sheriff’s deed. $12,000. $125,000.

CHARLEROI Helen Siska James Huweart Jr. Theresa Nigro Estate of Emily Checchi

Jack and Alice Zimmerly US Bank NA trustee Nathan Black David Morris and Stacy Nichols

832 Crest Ave. 606 Shady Ave. 513 Eighth St. 821 Crest Ave.

$14,000. $1,484 by sheriff’s deed. $15,000. $24,000.

3247 Beechdale St. $85,000.

4137 Brownsville Road $65,000.

445 Dailey Road $64,000.

3804 Sunview Drive $20,000.

2956 Brevard Ave. $17,646 by sheriff’s deed.

4065 Brownsville Road $42,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $130,144) by sheriff’s deed.

4040 Tuxey Ave. $159,900.

3942 Meadowbrook Blvd. $106,500.

34 Sceneridge Ave. $58,000.

2726 Churchview Ave. $79,100.

215 Mira Ave. $42,000.

3220 Villawood Ave. $105,000.

3331 Villawood Ave. $120,000.

23 W. Garden Road $129,300.

2932 Willett Road $105,000.

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

Estate of Rose Marie Prush Carolyn Bilsky trustee Estate of Helen Zilka Gregory Hazy RVFM 3 LLC Kenneth Wiltz Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Washington County Tax Claim Bureau

Robert Cain Walter Corey Danielle Haynes Adam Sutch Gaberria Inc. Mark Torlone Sanders Family Irrevocable Trust Sanders Family Irrevocable Trust Sanders Family Irrevocable Trust

729 Fallowfield Ave. $3,000.

1010 Lower Crest Ave. $31,500.

1007 Oakland Ave. $58,000.

1203 Oakland Ave. $79,900.

123 Prospect Ave. $2,000.

514 Lookout Ave. $69,000.

100 Lincoln Ave. $1,016 by sheriff’s deed.

Lincoln Avenue Ext. $1,851 by sheriff’s deed.

Lincoln Avenue Ext. $3,668 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $3,669) by sheriff’s deed.

312 Shady Ave. $65,000.

Douglas Litavec et al.

Suzanne and Joseph Surdyn

CLAIRTON Denise Taylor Chizmar CFV Properties LLC Brian Bloom Three Rivers Properties Inc. trustee Wade Dennis Thunborg

James Frazier III and Christina Frazier Kurt Wehner Michael Giangregorio Jr. and Laurie Giangregorio Leroy Johnson and Patricia Robinson Johnson Lotus Realty Group Inc.

622 12th St. 4604 Bataan Ave. 111 Jefferson Drive 815 School St. 508 New York Ave.

$23,000. $30,000. $68,000. $20,000. $18,000.

DONORA Mon Valley L.P. Justin TL Downey Donald Foster Jr. William Weightman Jr. Terry Zimmer

Mitch Universal Enterprises LLC US Bank NA trustee Midfirst Bank Dennis and Christina Fowler Matthew Jones and Elizabeth Ann Miller

459 Sixth St. 801 Ninth St. 209 Modisette 15 Delsandro Drive 830 Walnut St.

$3,500. $12,377 by sheriff’s deed. $1,314 by sheriff’s deed. $124,500. $40,000.

DUNLEVY Jessco Svcs Inc.

Three M Real Estate Assoc. LLC

2227 Route 88

ELIZABETH BOROUGH Karen Pro

Amy Twele

614 Seventh Ave.

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Estate of Joseph Gaydos

Joseph Gaydos Jr.

1808 Greenock Buena Vista Road

$190,000. $68,500. $125,000.

Small Paint Projects To Transform Your Space (NAPS)—Giving your home personality and adding a dash of character can be achieved easily and affordably with small paint projects. The experts at Dutch Boy Paint are a great resource for unique project ideas and helpful how-tos that will assist you with transforming your space into a haven that reflects your personality and style.

1.The Grand Entrance: Personalize your front door by painting it an unexpected hue. It will bring character and personality to your home and offer fresh curb appeal. Color expert Sue Wadden suggests a stately shade, such as red or purple, to wake up a simple cottage-style door and accentuate a front garden. A bold yellow hue that has warmer undertones can energize an otherwise neutral exterior, and a bright pop of orange makes for an unexpected statement.

Complement your newly painted front (Continued on page 56)

EXPIRES Expires01/31/2016 03-31-14

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Small Paint Projects To Transform Your Space (Continued from page 55)

door with colorful, eye-catching address numbers. Choose a color that complements the front door or a contrasting hue that offers an interesting accent.

Numbers may be painted directly onto the door or a section of siding.

2.Make a Splash: The kitchen is the perfect place to have some fun with color since it’s often the communal area of a home. Instead of traditional tile, cook up a scene-stealing space by giving your backsplash a makeover. Stencil in a design, favorite quote or food-inspired words. Don’t forget to consider the other colors at play in the space before selecting the backsplash paint color. If the kitchen has dark cabinets, choose a lighter shade to keep the room from feeling heavy. For white or light-color cabinets, both brighter and darker paint colors work well for this space; and for a pop of brightness that’s also durable and stain resistant, use Dutch Boy® (Continued on page 58)

HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Local Real Real Estate Estate Transactions Transactions Recent Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

Patrick Thornton Regina Humenik Joyce Ann Hredocik Robert Youkers Cynthia Pazehopski Bret Holdren Dolores Sutton Timothy Tremont Patrick O’Bryon

Chianne Higgins Kari and Duane Stepanik Gabriel and Lindsey White Adam and Brianna Musisko John and Mallory Pazehoski Thomas and Elizabeth Pennell Stephen Bornyas and Micky Stash James and Miranda Martin Benjamin Tail

110 Broadlawn Drive 107 Daggette Drive 629 Terrace Drive 410 Circle Drive 331 Karen Drive 2951 Skyline Drive 935 Boston Hollow Road 3 Concord Drive 830 Dads Lane

FALLOWFIELD Laura Boyd Gregory Richard Schwendeman Jason Ivcic Camille Chilzer Eva Bentley

Lloyd Williams trustee Carol Byron and Colman Zsiros Julie Gottselig Adam Greathouse Federal National Mortgage Assn.

27 Lavonne Ave. 7 Rider St. 1 Smith St. 63 Overlook Blvd.

155 Riverview Ave.

$22,000. $85,500. $139,500. $57,000. $1,338 by sheriff’s deed.

FORWARD TOWNSHIP Albert Bowers Jr. Estate of Norman Cain

Albert Bowers III Federal National Mortgage Assn.

8973 Roberts Hollow Road 421 Bunola RiverRd

$103,000. $2,508 by sheriff’s deed.

JEFFERSON HILLS Castor Farm Assoc. Inc. EMAP Properties L.P. Ashley Rittle Environmentally Sound Enterp. LLC NVR Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. LSF9 Master Participation Trust Jon Brodine Douglas Stroup Maronda Homes Inc.

$84,900. $107,000. $58,000. $315,000. $120,000. $125,000. $20,000. $235,000. $62,500.

Donald Raymond and Julia Shelton 4008 Castor Lane $55,000.

Timothy Bauries 2013 Old Clairton Road $50,000.

Evan Dalzell 109 Shellbark St. $305,000.

NVR Inc. Greene Drive $60,000.

David and Kori Shearouse 328 Greene Drive $267,230.

Donald Gratton Jr. and Brittney Gratton 414 Lexie Way $388,825.

Jarvis Jennings and Aleya Crable 419 Lexie Way $280,435.

Robert Morini Jr. et al. and Angela Morini 2019 New York Ave. $95,000.

Scott Kulikowski 2003 S. Scotia Hollow Road $115,000.

Jupiter Properties L.P. 1416 Worthington Ave. $30,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $101,261) by sheriff’s deed.

Shawn and Erica McNeil 417 Lexie Way $282,380.

of Pittsburgh

For All Your Real Estate Needs

Lori Maffeo

*Voted Pittsburgh’s #1 Realtor in 2014!

Do You Know...

How Much Your Home is Worth?

You may be surprised to learn how much your home’s value has grown in today’s real estate market! I would be delighted to prepare a complimentary Home Market Analysis of your home.

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This certificate entitles you to a complimentary HOME MARKET EVALUATION of the property by a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty professional. If you are considering selling, call me and I will show you how much your property is worth in today’s marketplace. It could be worth more than you think!

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Office: 412-833-7700 x295 Cell: 412-519-9162 - text friendly Lori@LoriMaffeo.com www.LoriMaffeo.com *Contest sponsored by Choice Home Warranty via Zillow.com reviews.

Votes made by happy clients via Polldaddy.com.

January 2016 —————————————————————————————————————————

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Small Paint Projects To Transform Your Space (Continued from page 55) Platinum® Paint in semi-gloss.

Further customize your kitchen by painting the island a hue that complements the other colors in the room. If you’d like to keep the space neutral, select a subtle shade for the island such as cream, beige or gray. Or, if you’re looking to be a bit more daring, choose a shade such as turquoise, navy blue or mint.

3.Rethink your Wardrobe: For an element of surprise, paint the interior of your closet.

4.More to Adore: Instead of adorning walls with framed artwork, paint a multicolored diamond or chevron pattern for an unexpected pop of color. A frame wall with favorite pictures or prized album covers centered in painted blocks puts a spin on the traditional. Add perceived dimension to a room by creating nontraditional stripes with three or even four colors.

A headboard painted directly onto the wall creates an element of decorative surprise in the bedroom, and a stenciled one can add definition and polish.

With Dutch Boy Paint’s unique paint project ideas and wide variety of paint colors and finishes, the possibilities of creating a distinct identity for your home that embodies your personality and lifestyle are easy.

Check out the store locater on DutchBoy.com to find your closest retailer.

For even more ideas and inspiration, visit www.dutchboy.com/inspiration or find Dutch Boy Paint on Facebook, YouTube and Pinterest.

HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

John Marynchak Jr. NVR Inc. Lynn Jones et al.

Housing & Urban Development David Matesa Estate of Dennis Conroy Douglas Hugh Murphy trustee Joanne Fassbender Christiana Trust

Thomas Yonek Michael and Katie Collodi John and Carlene Garrity Carl Brown Jr. Ronald and Lisa Sarber Julia and Marcus Costanza Patrick Steiner Jr. and Maria Isabel Steiner Caroline Breneman Joanne Palminteri Revocable Trust

2007 Riverview Drive 336 Greene Drive 4326 Harlin Drive 116 Hillview Road 101 MacArthur Road 235 Old Clairton Road 310 Payne Hill Road 1446 Route 51 213 Spartz Drive

$127,000. $311,855. $265,000. $39,000. $165,000. $119,000. $154,000. $125,000. $75,000.

MONESSEN Peter Peckyno Estate of William Gelder Moness L.P. Jeanne Canigiani Albert Salaske Jr. Lois Jean Bodnar Neil Michael Kraynek Darryl Arnold Amy Sue Reis American Medical Com. Found. In

Daniel and Alexis Wadsworth George Goettel Dennis Hawkins Jr. Matthew Byron George Hill II and Tina Hill Melissa Gazzam Joseph Trozzo Arnolds Sales & Rentals LLC Brian Greer William Vetter

106 McKee Ave. 60 Montraver Drive Schoonmaker Ave. 150 Pacific Blvd.

1260 Rosecrest Ave. 21 Pennsylvania Blvd.

83 Scenery Blvd.

523 Donner Ave. 122 Pride Ave. 1600 Walnut Ave.

$13,000. $47,000. $14,000. $53,000. $72,500. $59,500. $59,000. $11,500. $56,400. $7,000.

MONONGAHELA Robert DeBerardinis Jr. Gloria Venanzi Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Aldine Bulger Clement Gigliotti Kenneth Konwick Keith Sikora

Cole Property Group LLC Joseph and Elizabeth Caruso Gary Borneman John and Ruth Crothers Matthew and Nicole Burkholder Apex Properties & Development LLC Gabel Child

252 W. Main St. 415 Grandview Ave. 700 Lincoln St. 299 Warne St. 444 Fourth St. 615 Ohio St. 408 Parkinston St.

$24,000. $115,100. $38,001. $57,500. $65,000. $45,000. $29,000.

NEW EAGLE Elizabeth Bruno

Steve Levandosky Jr. and Linda Levandosky

Main St.

$140,000.

NORTH BELLE VERNON Estate of Jacob Hewitt Corey Yurkovich

Erik Scheponik William and Frances Runyan

430 Ferncliff Drive 310 Fayette St.

$30,000. $122,000.

NORTH CHARLEROI Kathleen Ercoline et al.

Kevin Hanley

517 Conrad Ave.

PETERS TOWNSHIP Douglas Zywan Estate of Patricia Templeton Douglas Dunkerley Estate of Mary Detrick Rachael Iltrogge Barret Polidori et al.

Kenneth Forbrich GRSW Stewart Real Est trustee Tri River Design & Construction Inc. Robert Young James Ruedlinger Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Eddy Land Co. William Osburn Thomas Hartman Wells Fargo Bank Theodore Slater Jr. Tri River Design & Construction Inc. Brad Benjamin Lewis Lipps GRSW Real Estate Trust Darrell Fink National Transfer Services LLC Alda Littell Michael Large Joshua Koontz Michael Smith Eddy Land Co. Loretta Lonzo

Larry and Lorraine Weaver Ralph S & Karen Ann Thompson Family Revo Jeffrey Froetchel Pamela Dolinar Donald and Sharon Riether Bank New York Mellon trustee Daniel Smith Valerie Pajak and Gus Glyptis Stephen and Stephanie Yovino Timothy and Nicole Johns John Pape III and Elizabeth Pape Thomas and Deborah Leonard Thomas and Maryane Burke Benjamin McClure Aaron Hartman and Cara Decarlo Michael and Brittany McLaughlin Bethany and Aaron Sworden Peter Vuljanic Jr. and Shirley Vuljanic Andrea Passman GRSW Real Estate Trust Michael James and Christina Grasso National Transfer Services LLC David Townsend and Tiffany Casciato Clean Green Real Estate et al.

Kelly and Benjamin Rex Miller Thomas Bametzrieder Jr. and Jennifer Bametzrieder Joshua and Natalie Koontz Karen Chin Boris and Olivera Dujmovic

112 Brooke Drive 105 Cove Court 432 E. McMurray Road 861 E. McMurray Road 194 Marion Drive 128 McClintock Drive 144 Pleasantview Drive 338 Snowberry Circle 202 Village Green Drive 95 Alexander Drive 114 Bridle Trail 347 Buckingham Drive 814 Crossbow Court 137 Highvue Drive 2774 Locust Drive 102 Standing Rock Drive 659 Sugar Camp Road 310 Village Green Drive 319 Village Green Drive 100 Walnut Drive 100 Walnut Drive 110 Bower Hill Road 110 Bower Hill Road 129 Brawdy St. 118 Canterbury Lane 210 Canterwood Drive 107 Coventry Court 709 Crosswinds Drive 125 Meadow St.

$72,000. $160,000. $437,500. $231,250. $63,000. $265,000. $1,762 by sheriff’s deed. $325,000. $550,000. $393,500. $471,000. $517,000. $898,000. $635,260. $247,000. $60,000. $320,000. $351,724. $390,500. $399,000. $499,000. $450,000. $230,000. $230,000. $10,000. $248,000. $640,000. $475,000. $372,000. $256,500.

SCHOOL NEWS

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

Volker Mirgel John Carson Michael Jones Cartus Financial Corp.

Lydia Hritz Estate of Joyce Moyer Janet Keyser Joseph Casilli Jeanne Hecht Thomas Brown Briwood Inc. Harry V & Marilyn F Myers Rev. Livi Kyle Janik Halliburton Real Estate Services Inc. Tri River Design & Construction Inc.

Allison Dawn Brown and Mark Miller William Miller III and Anita Miller Cartus Financial Corp.

Robret Maras Jr. and Carol Maras Arlene A Miller Revocable Living Trust Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Joshua James and Christine Kathryn Rife Dion Heinsen and Angela Schuettler Michael and Pamela Wagner James Cox Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Crescent Contracting Corp.

Halliburton Real Estate Services Inc. Jason and Amanda Salisbury Jacqueline Scanlon

211 Old Woods Drive 110 Park Ave. 115 Pleasant Ave. 115 Pleasant Ave. 138 Roscommon Place 450 Thompsonville Road 634 Venetia Road 114 Alyson Drive 580 Church Hill Road 404 E. McMurray Road Mallard Lane 130 Robinhood Lane 609 Sagewood Drive 609 Sagewood Drive 204 Village Green Drive

ROSTRAVER Michael Vincler Pearley Cunningham Estate of Gilbert Watson Donna Rainey Roland Keddie Lonnie Stangroom JLH Development LLC Wells Fargo Bank Brian Teslovich Warren Kulik Clint Kuskie PNC Bank NA National Residential Nominee Serv. In Housing & Urban Development Pamela Marie Hixon

Corey and Julie Yurkovich David Hamley Dannielle Seanor Amber McClain and Dennis Savinda John Mark and Kathleen Murtha Patricia Ann Morris Stephen Ross Land Resource Investment & Development C Bruce Berkoben & Kathleen Frances Hayes Berkob Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Jonas and Jill Wolfe David Mornak Ryan and Shannon Moncini Donald Swink Gene and Candy Hepple

Jerry Semkiw Kevin Dickey

Eileen Russell Entech LLC

400 Abbey Lane $280,000.

2007 Lake View Drive $225,500.

138 Pleasant Valley Blvd. $179,900.

424 Rostraver Road $28,000.

196 Valley View Drive $212,500.

919 Washington Road $2,500.

212 Carson St. $1,476.

114 Pleasant Valley Blvd. $59,260.

622 Sontino Drive $430,000.

645 Todd Farm Road $1,543 by sheriff’s deed.

316 German St. $215,000.

335 Lenity School Road $114,900.

515 Galileo Drive $225,000.

203 German St. $18,000.

191 Johnson Ave. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $48,530).

2112 Lake View Drive $198,000.

1571 Rostraver Road $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $266,287).

819 Tyrol Blvd. $160,000.

Vernon Drive $2,000.

801 Webster Hollow Road $1,324 by sheriff’s deed.

Itama Development Assoc. L.P. Maronda Homes Inc. Scott Raymond Gray

Robert Bruno Renaissance Heights Community Assn. Inc. Pennymac Corp.

SOUTH PARK L. Walter Sumansky Harold Morris Douglas Schaffer Toni Maiolo et al.

Jane Deskovich Wayne Becker James Deigan Housing & Urban Development Jesse Forcey Keith Jeziorski Carol Smoot Brandon Flannery

Robert and Paula Papakie Nicholas and Jaclyn Cortazzo Alexander Dimitri Sean Burr Susan Och Clyde and Avee Drain Jeffrey and Amy Hennon Michael and Lindsay Siwiec Duane and Sarah Reick Erin and Jason Dansak Judy Lenneman and Ronald Lenneman Jr. Ian Johnson and Kaitlin Martin

1545 Barnes Ave. 1617 Duchess Lane 1524 Rose Ave. 1699 Stoltz Road 3601 Falmouth Drive 1431 Main Blvd.

1821 Ridge Road 150 Sylvania Drive 1629 Connor Road 6433 Highview St. 2635 Keats Drive 6579 Quaker Drive

SPEERS Estate of Myrna Houlis

Mark and Sally Ladisic

522 Charles St.

UNION TOWNSHIP Joseph Dahm Jason Meyer Aaron Sworden Noah Mikec Jacqueline Patterson Estate of Betty Jane Burgan White House Construction LLC William Griswold

Eric and Korie Carlson US Bank NA trustee Dustin Watson Gary and Janet Wall Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

James and Theresa Gillece Richard and Arlene Rice Mary Kay Huesdash

5126 Chevy Chase Drive 5148 Hazel St. 6075 Route 88 4231 Finleyville Elrama Road 48 Hobbit Lane 5031 Meadow Ave. 121 Via Reggio Way 108 Viareggio Way

WEST ELIZABETH Veterans Administration

John Bertini

1052 Seventh St.

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

$750,000. $515,000. $244,000. $244,000. $195,000. $1,508 by sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deed. $108,000. $625,000. $1,050,000. $299,000. $85,000. $190,000. $540,000. $540,000. $391,650.

$176,000. $219,000. $149,900. $50,000. $140,000. $172,000. $265,000. $135,000. $155,000. $169,900. $142,000. $210,000. $71,000. $202,000. $1,525 by sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deed. $183,075. $107,000. $1,410 by sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deed. $147,000. $205,000. $217,000. $15,500.

This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s RealSTATs transactions for the following communities can be found on our website: NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP PLEASANT HILLS WHITEHALL

Visit our website www.messengerpaper.com to view these transactions

Finleyville Community Center Social Events and Banquet Hall (Seating for up to 120!)

For hall rental information, call 724-348-6567

0DULRQ $YH Â&#x2021; )LQOH\YLOOH 3$

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SPORTS Congrats, Clairton Bears Football Team WPIAL Class A Champs!

Congrats to Clairton Middle School Boys Basketball Teams!

Congratulations to the 7th and 8th grade boys basketball teams on successful seasons. Pictured with the team are Coach Bradford and Coach Armstrong.

Congratulations to the 2015 Clairton Bears football team on winning the WPIAL Class A Title at Heinz Field on November 28th.

This marks backto-back WPIAL Championships for the Bears.

Ryan Bramer Named 2015 USA BMX Grand National Champ To win the Grand Championship race is one of the greatest feats any BMX racer can do. It’s a huge victory for local South Park BMX rider Ryan Bramer. Ryan, 11 years old, won the biggest national race of the year - the 2015 USA BMX Grand National Championship race, held over Thanksgiving weekend in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It’s dubbed the Tulsa “Grands” as it’s the granddaddy of all races, hosting over 4,500 participants in attendance from all across the country and an intercontinental race.

Over the course of this long-awaited, two-day, 770+ moto event, Ryan quickly pedaled his way through his motos and onto eighths, quarters and semi- qualifying rounds to punch a ticket to the final main event.

It was starting to look a little bleak for Ryan as he had to try to make something happen from the furthest outside gate, lane 8. But, when the gate dropped, he put it in overdrive and led the pack across the track and through the finish line for a huge celebratory win and an awe-inspiring 8’ tall trophy, a trophy so big they had to take it apart to get it back home!

Congratulations, Ryan, on an exceptional win and great year! Good luck in 2016!

Editor Christen Stroh

Published Monthly by Haniford Enterprises, LLC P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 Phone/Fax: (412) 249-8177 E-mail: news@messengerpaper.com The South Hills - Mon Valley Messenger is published during the last week of the month preceding the issue date.

It is available FREE of charge at over 320 area locations throughout the South Hills and Mon Valley communities.

Owner/Publisher Douglas E. Haniford

Editorial Coordinators Heather Latorre Judy Gramm Contributing Writers/Photographers Ken Askew, Kyra Bergman, Jill Brown, J.R. Brower, Paul Chasko, Colette Dell Tracy Fedkoe, Alice Harris Charlotte Hopkins Mandy Withers-Kozlowski Heather Latorre, Krista Ramsey, Samantha Carroll, Miranda Startare Christen Stroh, Michelle Taylor

Director of Sales and Client Services Ben Fisher - bfisher@messengerpaper.com Advertising: Heather Daerr, Kim Davidovich Carlo Bonadio, Gloria Astle, Kelly Frost Charmaine Nebash Circulation Manager: Ken Askew Promotions and Events: Kara Prentice Art Director JMC Graphics lammienancy@aol.com (412) 835-5796

Editorial Policy The South Hills-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 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 15th day of the month preceding issue date.

© The South Hills-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 opinions expressed in the Messenger are those of the author, and not necessarily of the Messenger.

For advertising information, call (412) 249-8177 or e-mail news@messengerpaper.com

January 2016 —————————————————————————————————————————

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School News...School News Jefferson Elementary School Performs Holiday Concert

Jefferson Elementary School performed their annual holiday concert on Friday, December 4, 2015, titled “Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow,” under the musical direction of Mrs. Amy Davidson, Ms. Connie Testa and Mrs. Valerie Myers.

The students and staff did a fantastic job and put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Monessen/Rostraver Rotary Recognizes December Students of the Month

Monessen/Rostraver Rotary Vice President Mark Shire (far right), and Monessen Superintendent Dr. Leanne Spazak (center), who also is a member of the Monessen/Rostraver Rotary, congratulate the organization’s Students of the Month for December. Pictured (l to r) are seniors Nathan Ciepley and Alyssa Henry and 8th graders Daniel Hurst and Daÿa Grogan.

On December 15, the Monessen/Rostraver Rotary recognized four Monessen students for their academic and extracurricular activities. Seniors Alyssa Henry and Nathan Ciepley and 8th graders Daÿa Grogan and Daniel Hurst attended the group’s weekly meeting to accept their certificates and pens. During the meeting, each student took a few minutes to introduce themselves to the membership.

Monongahela Valley Hospital Nurse Conducts Narcan Training for Charleroi High School Staff “There is no reasoning with a high heroin addict,” stated Bobbi Rodino, Monongahela Valley Hospital Emergency Department nurse as she began a vital Narcan (also known as Naloxone) training session for nurses and security personnel in the Charleroi Area School District.

Following a brief introduction, Ms. Rodino detailed visual signs that may Bobbi Rodino, RN, demonstrates application of a Narcan dose as Marie indicate and opiate overdose. Examples Ripepi, school nurse, and the rest included such behaviors as spending of the training group look on. lengthy periods in the restrooms, nodding off in class, itching, displaying weak or limp movements, being inattentive, “snorting,” and exhibiting a blue chin or lips.

She noted that the “snorting” is a sign that their body needs air.

Students using illegal substances may also be identified by things they carry on them such as needles, pipes and even the screen that covers a sink faucet. In addition, she outlined methods of getting the attention of someone who is overdosing. These include shaking them or shouting at them, and if they are sitting, laying them down on the floor. Before doing anything else, she stressed how important it is to call 911.

Ms. Rodino then proceeded to the physical training of how to administer a dose of Narcan. She removed her emergency kit containing the Narcan dose, gloves, sanitizer and a rescue breathing mask. With the Narcan dose in-hand, she walked school personnel through preparation of the dose and, using a training dummy, demonstrated how to administer the drug by way of the nasal passage — her instructions, “half in each nostril and back up.” She informed the staff that the reason for backing up after dispensing the dose is to avoid being injured by the person being revived, “They are going to be angry because your actions ended their high.” Each member of the staff then took turns administering imitation doses on the training dummy.

Another example that Ms. Rodino referenced is that that the victim may not respond to the drug application at which point, a second dose may be administered.

She was firm in disclosing that additional doses may cause permanent damage to the overdosing individual.

While Narcan is a fast-acting approach for revival, it is not a long-term fix for an overdose. The drug typically wears off within two to five minutes and the individual will still require emergency treatment. If action is not taken quickly, the victim will slip back into their previous state of overdose or worse.

St. Elizabeth Elementary School Holds Preschool Story Hour St. Elizabeth Elementary School will hold a preschool story hour open to the public on Thursday, January 7th from 1-2 p.m. Any child that is 3 years old and older and potty-trained is welcome to attend! We will have great stories followed by some fun activities. Children can be dropped off after signing in with one of the preschool teachers. Parents can stay, but it’s not necessary. It is a fun time that your preschooler won’t want to miss!

If you have any questions, please call Sue Lydon @ 412-881-2958 or you can email slydon@st-elizabeth.org. We look forward to seeing you there!

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SCHOOL NEWS

Allegheny County Schools RWAN Network Provider Selected Allegheny County school districts realize substantial savings in network costs DQE Communications to manage and maintain network during five-year contract The Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU) and the Allegheny County Schools RWAN RFP Steering Committee is pleased to announce that DQE Communications has been selected to provide telecommunications services to Allegheny County school districts served by its regional wide area network.

Contract negotiations will commence immediately for the management of the network and service is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2016.

The framework, also known as the Allegheny County RWAN, is the telecommunications network that links area schools over high-speed fiber optic connections. It is designed to more efficiently transmit and share data involved with administrative and instructional applications, such as distance learning, video content and educational software.

The Allegheny County RWAN also acts as a bulk-purchaser of commodity Internet bandwidth, which allows school districts to take advantage of extremely discounted rates and fully maximize federal e-Rate subsidies.

The five-year contract will ensure that schools in Allegheny County will continue to have affordable and efficient access to the Internet, Internet2 and the Pennsylvania state network of schools known as PAIUNET. The agreement includes potential service to 46 organizations including 41 public school districts, four career and technical centers and the AIU. It is anticipated that school districts will save thousands of dollars every month in network costs.

The selection of DQE Communications was made by the RFP steering committee comprised of the following members: Jon Amelio - AIU, Chief Technology Officer Raymond Berrott - Upper St. Clair School District, Director of Technology Rick Dobrzynski - AIU, Network Administrator

Scott Hand - Fox Chapel Area School District, Director of Educational Technology Debra Kriete - E-rate Consultant and Project Coordinator Joe Miller - A.W. Beattie Career Center, Director of Technology Rich Platts - South Park School District, Director of Technology Ron Reyer, Jr., - Bethel Park School District, Director of Technology Among the goals of the committee was to establish a cost-effective network design that ensures competitive prices and scalability to meet districts’ increasing bandwidth demands. In addition, the committee desired a network that would coordinate Internet2 and Commodity Internet access services so that traffic is routed in the most effective means possible.

DQE Communications was one of six vendors that submitted proposals. Some of the key aspects of DQE’s plan included the lowest pricing for both circuit cost and its Internet integrated solution.

Among other features, DQE will provide smart routing and direct district-to-district traffic that will increase the network’s efficiency. Usage monitoring and reporting will be provided for individual school districts. It is anticipated that the transition will be complete by July 1, 2016.

Jon Amelio, Chief Technology Officer of the AIU, noted, “The steering committee was very diligent in ensuring that schools in Allegheny County would have access to one of the most efficient, costeffective and flexible networks in the state.”

DQE Communications is based in the SouthSide Works and provides fiber optic network services to businesses in Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania.

Jim Morozzi, President and CEO of DQE, said, “We are thrilled that the AIU selected DQE Communications as its fiber-optic network provider for the RWAN.” Over the next several weeks, it is anticipated that school districts will determine their level of participation.

Email your Schools News to: news@messengerpaper.com

January 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Old Trails Business and Professional Women’s Club Honors CTC Students Old Trails Business and Professional Women's Club held their November meeting at King's Restaurant in Bentleyville to plan their upcoming events and to honor students who attend the Career and Technology Center.

Charleroi senior David Nuzzo, son of Robert and Farrah Nuzzo, is in the culinary arts program. He is undecided about his college plans other than getting a business degree. He hopes David Nuzzo, left, and Noah Peternel to open his own restaurant sometime in the future.

Bentworth's senior is Noah Peternel, son of Paul and Mary Peternel. Noah is enrolled in the electrical program and will further his education in Erie for an associate’s degree in the electrical field.

Both young men are members of their respective football teams.

The speaker for the evening was Donna Hatalowich, nurse/health educator.

She gave an excellent presentation on the vast number of physicians, departments and services that are available at Mon Valley Hospital.

The Zoo Mobile Unit Visits Thomas Jefferson High School Environmental Science Classes Representatives from the Zoo Mobile Unit of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium visited the Thomas Jefferson High School environmental science classes to provide a program called “A Plan for Survival.”

Students enrolled in the environmental science class have completed an endangered species unit and were eager to hear from the zoo about their conservations plans as well as see different species up close.

Robin McRoberts and Mandy Revak, Zoo Mobile education specialists, spoke Mrs. Cook with Mandy Revak of Zoo Mobile. to the class about the factors that contribute to endangerment and how the zoo is helping endangered species through their Species Survival Plan and Conservation Fund.

Students had the opportunity to get an up close and personal encounter with a chinchilla, baby alligator, and milk snake. According to TJHS environmental science teacher Mrs. Nicole Cook, “The Endangered Species chapter is probably my favorite chapter of the whole year. Along with learning about what causes a species to become endangered, each student researches an endangered species and presents it to the class.”

The presentation by the Pittsburgh zoo allowed students to apply the knowledge they learned over the last few weeks, ask questions about the program at the zoo, and meet some real life endangered species up close and personal. Mrs. Cook continued, “This was an amazing end to an important part of our curriculum. It allowed them to really connect and see just how important every living creature is to our planet.”

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SCHOOL NEWS

West Mifflin VFW 914 Announces Record Four Scholarship Contest Winners

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid West Mifflin Commander Jake Bradich, left, and VFW 914 Patriot's Pen and Voice of Democracy chairman, Gary Ruston, right, give recognition to local winners of the annual Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen contests. Pictured also are scholarship awardees Glen Brown II, Ashley Rogalla, Liam Rubright and Bree DeShields-Metz. Photo credit: Michael P. Mauer

By Michael P. Mauer Four Mon Valley students edged a broad field of candidates and were advanced to the next level of competition by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid West Mifflin for this year’s Voice of Democracy (VOD) and Patriot’s Pen contests. The post received more than three dozen entries that gave some local scholars a chance to earn some of the $2 million in national educational incentives awarded annually through the VFW. Earning the nod for this year’s VOD competition are juniors Glen Brown II, from Seton LaSalle High School, and Ashley Rogalla and Liam Rubright, from West Mifflin Area High School.

Bree DeShields-Metz, an 8th grader from the West Mifflin Area Middle School, was awarded the top slot for the post’s Patriot’s Pen scholarship.

The three VOD winners each received a $100 award from VFW Post 914 Intrepid West Mifflin at the organization’s Nov. 24 meeting at the Thompson Run Athletic Association, as well as a VFW medal. A $100 check and a VFW medal also were presented to the post’s Patriot's Pen winner.

All of the VOD candidates will move to the next bracket of competition, to be held at Pittsburgh’s VFW District

29. If forwarded from there, entrants will earn a chance to compete at the VFW Department of Pennsylvania.

After that, winners will then vie at the national level where the top laurels include a $30,000 scholarship.

As the Patriot’s Pen award winner, DeShields-Metz also earned the chance to advance to the next level of competition in the VFW’s youth essay contest.

The top Patriot’s Pen competitors selected from each state can earn $50,000 in awards, as well as a top prize of $5,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. In all, VFW Post 914 received 34 entries for this year’s VOD competition and 6 for the Patriot’s Pen. The post is permitted to advance one in 10 entries for each competition annually.

The year’s total of 40 entrants for both youth scholarship programs is a record for the post.

“We couldn’t be more pleased at the post with the big turnout we received from the students this year,” said Gary Ruston, VFW 914 Patriot's Pen and Voice of Democracy chairman. “It’s great to get this type of support from the teachers and administrators at the schools.”

For more information about VFW Post 914 and its activities, contact Commander Bradich at: 412-464-9838.

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Teams from 30 Area High Schools Hone Engineering Skills, Creativity at Chain Reaction Contest The Chain Reaction Contraption Contest, held on December 11th, challenged students to create a complex machine to complete an everyday task in 20 steps or more.

The contest is a program of the Chevron Center for STEM Education and Career Development and is part of the Science Center’s celebration of National Engineers Week. The contest is sponsored by Westinghouse Electric Company LLC and presented in cooperation with the Carnegie Science Center and the Engineers' Society of Western Pennsylvania.

Contraptions were judged on functionality, complexity, and creativity in achieving the task. Thirty-five teams from 30 area high schools participated in the engineering competition, which this year challenged teams to “Tell a Story.”

Hempfield Area High School took top honors. Cornell High School won second place. North Allegheny Senior High School claimed third place.

“It’s imaginative events like the Chain Reaction Contraption contest that inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers who we need to solve the world’s ever-changing technology challenges,” said Jim Brennan, senior vice president, Westinghouse Engineering Center of Excellence. “I was really impressed with the hard work and creativity that these students showed with their projects.”

Special awards were also presented to the following schools: • Longest Successfully Executed

Contraption presented to Kiski Area High School. Award sponsored by Westinghouse.

• Rookie of the Year presented to Shaler High School. Award sponsored

by Carnegie Science Center. This school will receive a field trip for up to 25 students to attend National Engineers Week at Carnegie Science Center on February 19.

• Best Use of Gravity presented to West Mifflin High School. Award sponsored by Carnegie Science Center.

This school will receive a field trip for up to 25 students to attend Carnegie Science Center.

• Most Mechanical presented to Greater Latrobe High School. Award sponsored by Carpenter Powder Products, Inc. • Best Presentation presented to Baldwin High School. Award sponsored by Robotics Institute School of Computer Science – Carnegie Mellon University.

• Best Transportation System presented to Somerset High School.

Award sponsored by Bombardier Transportation.

• Most Efficient Reset presented to Montour High School. Award sponsored by Bayer HealthCare.

• Best Execution of a Theme presented to Brentwood High School.

Award sponsored by Kennywood Amusement Park.

• “What Will You Create?” award presented to North Allegheny Senior High School. Award sponsored by Inventionland.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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John McMillan Preschool Schedules Open House for January 30th

Elizabeth Forward’s Shelby Nigon Wins Essay Award First Prize

By Paul Chasko The Pennsylvania Society recently announced winners of their Tenth Annual Benjamin Franklin Scholar Award. This is an essay-writing competition open to all Pennsylvania public school students in good standing in their junior year of high school.

The competition winners are: 1st Prize: Shelby Nigon – Elizabeth Forward High School, Elizabeth Twp. Shelby Nigon 2nd Prize: Jordon Smith – West York High School, York 3rd Prize: Sarah Richter – Council Rock North High School, Newtown Entrants submitted an original essay of no more than 750 words discussing the modern-day relevance of the Benjamin Franklin quote, “Think of three things; whence you came, where you are going, and to whom you must account.”

The essays were reviewed by judges named by the Pennsylvania Association of School Counselors, the Pennsylvania Association of Elementary and Secondary School Principals and the Pennsylvania School Board Association. The criteria for judging is appropriately tough – original work of course, demonstrating hard work, displaying sensitivity to the complexities of the subject and with appropriate documentation of citations and bibliography.

The first place prize is $6,000 to further the education of the winning student – in this case, Shelby, who plans to attend a college or university studying physical therapy. Shelby is now in her senior year at Elizabeth Forward. She is head editor of the school newspaper and a yearbook editor. She’s also in GATE (Gifted and Talented Education), and is active in Spanish Club, The Future is Mine, track, and the LEO Club, a youth organization of the Lions Club International. Shelby lives with her mother and sister Jenna in Elizabeth Township. Her award will be presented on Friday, April 22nd at a Pennsylvania Society Luncheon in Scranton, PA.

John McMillan Preschool is hosting a Registration Open House on Saturday, January 30th from 9 a.m. to noon. Parents may register children for the 2016-2017 classes, visit the classrooms and meet the teachers.

John McMillan, serving the communities children for 42 years, offers classes for children ages two through five. Developmentally appropriate curriculum, aligned with the PA Learning Standards, includes kindergarten readiness activities, Christian education, art, music, creative and outdoor play.

The weekly Parent & Tot class is an opportunity for two-year-olds to enjoy a special introduction to a "classroom" environment with the safety of a familiar adult close by! The three-year-old classes meet two or three times per week and the fouryear-old classes meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Our four-day transition class is designed for the older preschool child who would benefit from another year of preschool prior to kindergarten. Additional programs include Lunch & Learning, an extended day program for 4s or Ts, held Mondays and Wednesdays 11:30 - 2 p.m., and Kindergarten Plus, a half-day enrichment program for children already attending area kindergarten classes.

See you at Open House! For further information, please call Pat Folino at 412833-4704.

McClelland Elementary School Holds Pajama Drive

Elizabeth Forward School District Holds 7th Annual Food Drive

By Michelle Taylor Elizabeth Forward School District hosted their annual food drive from November 23rd - December 4th. They asked for donations of most-needed items such as boxed meals, powdered milk, snack items, canned veggies, etc.They then donated these items to the local food banks of Elizabeth Township. The middle school alone brought in 5,319 food donations and $1,400 in monetary donations. Mrs. Kilinski, nurse at the middle school, said that at their ‘Pass the Turkey’ drive for needy families for Thanksgiving that there are at least 40 local families in need and that this is just another way to help out those families. The district says as long as there are local families in need, they will continue to have the food drive every year.

Students and staff at McClelland Elementary School in Pleasant Hills, PA wrapped up the Scholastic Reading Club Great Bedtime Story Pajama Drive. Students donated new pajamas to benefit children in need - especially those living in group homes, shelters, foster care and orphanages. Also, Scholastic Reading Club matches each PJ donation with a free book for the child to read as well. This year, McClelland Elementary collected over 270 sets of pajamas!

E-mail your School News to: news@messengerpaper.com

January 2016 —————————————————————————————————————————

SCHOOL NEWS

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MON VALLEY CAREER & TECHNOLOGY CENTER NEWS MVCTC Completes Service Project The Mon Valley CTC SkillsUSA organization recently completed their holiday service project. They collected items for the soldiers in Kuwait and Jordan over the past few weeks. They made care packages that were sent to 18 soldiers in Kuwait and 8 in Jordan. The students donated items and assembled the packages, ready to ship, and also included a Christmas card for each soldier.

Ringgold Elementary North Students Raise Funds for Holiday Dinners Ryder Hill, from California, at the post office sending out packages to the soldiers.

MVCTC Participates in District 9 SkillsUSA Competitions On Tuesday, December 15, the students participated in District 9 SkillsUSA competitions at Somerset CTC. There were 50 competitors who showed their program area skills as well as leadership skills.

We are proud to announce that there were 20 gold medalists, 7 silver medalists and 8 bronze medalists from MVCTC. Gold medalists were: Jake Zadrozny, Belle Vernon, Advertising Design; Taylor Conn, Cosmetology, Adult Student; Tyler Snyder, Electrical Wiring, Beth Center; Dillan Plants, Industrial Motor Control, Beth Center; Jenna Martin, Job Skill, Ringgold; John Lowrey, Medical Terminology, Charleroi; Ashley Wozniak, Nail Care, Charleroi; Quiz Bowl (a 6man team) comprised of Vanessa Knight, Bentworth; Jillian Yohe, Ringgold; Lauren Watkins, California; Dawn Deems, California; Scott Trunzo, Ringgold; Miguel Tunon; Opening and Closing Ceremonies ( an 8-man team) comprised of Max Kalchthaler, Bentworth; Elliot Knight, California; Kara Novotney, California; Peggy Singosky, California; Tresten Maksemetz, Charleroi; Nick Usher, Charleroi; Alan Wareham, Ringgold and Ryan Michel, Ringgold.

These 20 students will be representing MVCTC at the SkillsUSA State Competition in Hershey, PA in April 2016. The students will be doing a lot of fundraising in the next few months, so please help support them. If you are interested in sponsoring a student for the state competition, please contact the school.

Coach Joe and some of the RESN students

By Paul Chasko Ringgold Elementary School North (RESN) students have come through again to help the Washington City Mission.

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving Day is usually an early dismissal day for RESN students. Coach Joe Ravasio and teacher Earl Gilpin, several years ago, started a supervised all-afternoon fun and activity period. The catch is that there is a fee for attendance – a volunteer donation to the Washington City Mission.

This year, after the early dismissal, the gym was packed with students having a great time under the supervision of Mr. Gilpin and Coach Joe. Coach Joe is back as a volunteer, as he’s now retired as a teacher.

The kids this year had a great time during the special activity period and managed to bring $627 in for the Washington City Mission. What a great gift from the RESN students, Mr. Gilpin and Coach Joe.

Reality Tour Resumes on January 11th The Belle Vernon Area Reality Tour will resume Monday, January 11, 2016, from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Belle Vernon Area High School.

The Reality Tour would like to encourage groups to register for the tour and are calling all teachers, coaches, youth groups, school groups such as SADD, or any other group that has a leader. The “leader” promotes the tour dates and registration and gives incentive to register for a specific month.

A parent or guardian must be present with the student. The leader should also be at the tour, showing leadership in such an important topic.

Pre-registration is required for all participants. Visit www.realitytour.org. For information, email bellevernonarearealitytour@gmail.com. Please arrive by 5:45 p.m. to give time to check in.

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SCHOOL NEWS

January 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————

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EPA’s proposed rules will eliminate your choice to buy a new Classic on or about April 2015.

CASTLE Students Make Art Projects

Now is the best time to buy a new Classic.

CASTLE (Clairton's AfterSchool Teaching and Learning Experience) students worked on art projects in the Tuesday and Thursday partner group.

Students painted canvas and learned to sew. Pictured is 8th grader Jeff Newkirk working on sewing his holiday stockings.

Call today! +LHSLYZOPW 5HTL *P[` :[H[L 7OVUL 5\TILY

Clairton Hosts ‘Thankful for Senior Citizens’ Event Outdoor Wood Furnace

*Once proposed EPA rules are in effect, the retail sale of Classic furnaces in the United States will no longer be allowed. According to the EPA, the proposed standards would only apply to new wood heaters and will not affect wood heaters already in use in home or wood heaters currently for sale.

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PITTSBURGH EYE INSTITUTE

On Tuesday, November 24th, Clairton City School District hosted its annual ‘Thankful for Senior Citizens’ event. This event is sponsored by the elementary Student Leadership group, high school National Honor Society, and Sophomore Council. Approx 50 senior citizens from the community gathered in the high school auditorium for desserts sponsored by the staff and Clairton Education Association and beverages sponsored by Ms. Gaynor and Nutrition Inc. Entertainment was provided by Clairton Elementary's music department and Mr. Kevin Danchik. Pictured are the elementary singers singing a Thanksgiving song.

412 382 7155

www.pittlasik.com

E-mail your School News to: news@messengerpaper.com

January 2016 —————————————————————————————————————————

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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 * NOTICE: FREE private party classified ads are not accepted over the phone. To submit a FREE private party classified ad, write down your ad on paper, or an index card, and mail to: The Messenger, P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 We also will accept your FREE private party classified ads via e-mail at: classifieds@messengerpaper.com Voice-mail messages for FREE classified ads will not be accepted, and messages are not able to be returned. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

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 - A Loving Choice for an Unplanned Pregnancy. Call Andrea 1-866-2367638 (24/7) for adoption information/profiles, or view our loving couples at WWW.ANAAdoptions.com. Financial Assistance Provided ___________________________________________________________ TWO PROFESSIONALS WITH hearts full of love who will cherish a baby.We are your perfect choice as parents. Expenses paid. Christina and Michael (877)-298-1945 ___________________________________________________________ ADOPT: A baby is a gift to treasure. I can provide your baby a secure life unconditional love. Call/text anytime Maria 516-316-1191. ___________________________________________________________

--------- ATTORNEY ---------FRANK MAGONE, ESQUIRE, Wills ... Estates ... Family Law • Serving the Mon Valley.

Call: 724-258-2095 • frank@FrankMagoneLaw.com

1989 Corvette, 39,000 original miles, white exterior with red leather interior, see thru glass roof, automatic, $11,500. 412-462-6108 ___________________________________________________________ 1968 Corvette convertible with lift off hard top, automatic, ps, pb, good frame and bird cage, nice winter project, $12,000. 412-462-6108 ___________________________________________________________ A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER! Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, & support programs. FAST FREE PICKUP - 24 HR RESPONSE - TAX DEDUCTION 855-403-0213 ___________________________________________________________ Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-656-1632 ___________________________________________________________ Donate Your Car to Children’s Cancer Victims Today! Help and Support ACCF! Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-258-1429 ___________________________________________________________ CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330 ___________________________________________________________

--------- AUTOMOTIVE ----------

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

2005 Ford XLT Truck, 3/4 Ton, Crew Cab (4 Door), 5.4L V8 Engine, Towing Package, Low Mileage-18,500 miles, One Owner, Clean Engine, Clean Interior, Dark Blue, $16,500, 724-348-5797 ___________________________________________________________

Reach 30,000 potential customers in the South Hills and Mon Valley communities! Advertise your business in the South Hills - Mon Valley Messenger. Call for more information at 412-249-8177. Or e-mail to news@messengerpaper.com. ___________________________________________________________ Advertise to 500,000 Homes with a business card size ad. You choose the area of coverage in free community papers...we do the rest. Call 800-450-7227 or visit macnetonline.com ___________________________________________________________

2000 Ford Tarus approx 97000 miles, runs good, clean. $1500 Firm 412-5516954 ___________________________________________________________ 2007 Chevy Malibu, V6, 84,255 miles, very good condition 724-244-4862 ___________________________________________________________

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

of the Month Should Syrian refugees be allowed into the United States?

Yes - the majority of them are victims of displacement.

No - the United States should not be harboring potential threats to our security.

Vote YES or NO Log on to: www.messengerpaper.com to place your vote.

Look for the results in our February issue.

December Results:

Are you concerned about the potential for an ISIS/terrorist attack here in the U.S.?

100% Yes - What's happening elsewhere in the world will come to the U.S. eventually.

No - Even if ISIS or other terrorist organizations try to attack the U.S., the security measures we have in place are enough to deter any potential threats.

————————————————————————————————————————— 68 messengerpaper.com -------------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES -----------Explore Owning Your Own Franchise in the Lucrative Retirement/ Estate Planning Industry.

Go to: www.apgfranchise.com or call Chelsie at: 973-831-4424 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- 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. 412-944-4005. ___________________________________________________________

-------------- EDUCATION -----------25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a driver for Stevens Transport! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! New drivers earn $800+ per week! PAID CDL TRAINING! Stevens covers all costs! 1-888-734-6714 drive4stevens.com ___________________________________________________________ MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Train at home to process Medical Billing & Insurance! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training at Bryan University! HS Diploma/GED & Computer/Internet needed. 1-888-734-6711 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- EMPLOYMENT -----------Cleaning – Janitorial.

Earn Extra $$$$. Finleyville Area.

M-T-TH-F after 6 pm. Call 724-746-5700 Part-time Van Driver/Aide. Hours are 2:30pm - 7:30pm, M-F, and salary is $10.00/hr. Must have valid PA drivers license as well as clearances obtained through our agency. Contact ddodds@meltingpotmonistries.org or 412-310-8189. ___________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

Christian Home Health Care is hiring home health aides for the Mon Valley. To apply, please call 412-323-0203 X 6112. Earn some extra cash for the holidays. ___________________________________________________________ Garage Door Installer with experience and valid driver's license. 724-258-6900 Trinity Garage Door & Awning ___________________________________________________________ Daytime Bartender Wanted. 724-348-6607 ___________________________________________________________ Help Wanted. Need extra money. Office Cleaning Mt Lebanon/Bethel Park Area.

Evening Hours available. Part Time. In Touch Cleaning Services. 412-916-0716 ___________________________________________________________ House Cleaning. Part time permanent job doing light housecleaning. $10 - $ 12 plus tips. Peters, Canonsburg and surrounding areas. Raises, promotions, car necessary, short daylight. 724-941-3878 or 412-655-3921 Experienced Hair Dresser Needed FULL or PART Time • 724-344-4656 Office Cleaning Position Full and Part Time, in and around Pittsburgh Area. Many immediate opening. Call Heidi at 800-218-9159 ___________________________________________________________ Help Wanted - Bartender/Cook. Call: 724-348-6607 ___________________________________________________________ Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with children. Part time or full time positions available. Please call Tammy at 724348-6565 ___________________________________________________________ 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 ___________________________________________________________ The path to your dream job begins with a college degree. Education Quarters offers a free college matching service. CALL 1-800-375-6219 ___________________________________________________________ Make $1,000 Weekly! Paid in Advance! Mailing Brochures at Home. Easy Pleasant work.

Begin Immediately. Age Unimportant. www.MyHomeIncomeNow55.com ___________________________________________________________

January 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————

WORK AT HOME!! $570/WEEKLY** ASSEMBLING CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS + ENROLL to our FREE HOME MAILER PROGRAM + HOME TYPING PROGRAM. PT/FT. Genuine! www.HelpWantedWork.com.

Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts. Ability to multi-task.

Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred. Will train. Call 724-348-8844.

--------- EVENTS ----------Holding a Carnival! Fair! Festival! Jubilee! Promote it to over 1 Million readers for only $200!!! Visit www.midatlanticevents.net for more details or call 800-450-7227. ___________________________________________________________

--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS ----------Electric Motor Scooter, best offer, 724-929-3944 ___________________________________________________________ VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 50 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed.

CALL NOW! 1-866-312-6061 ___________________________________________________________ VIAGRA 100mg,CIALIS 20mg. 50 tabs $90 includes FREE SHIPPING.1-888-8360780 or Metro-Meds.net ___________________________________________________________ IF YOU HAD HIP OR KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION between 2010 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727 ___________________________________________________________ **FALL SPECIAL** VIAGRA 40x (100 mg) +16 "Double Bonus" PILLS for ONLY $119.00. NO PRESCRIPTION Needed! VISA payment required. 1-888-386-8074 www.newhealthyman.com Satisfaction Guaranteed!! ___________________________________________________________ VIAGRA! 52 Pills for only $99.00! The Original Blue Pill. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery Call 1-888-410-0514 ___________________________________________________________

Print

Services

• PUBLICATIONS AND REPORTS • FLYERS • NEWSLETTERS • FORMS • LOGOS • BUSINESS CARDS • ADVERTISEMENTS • COPYING SERVICES

Color Copies for as low as 30 cents per copy Call 412-835-5796 or e-mail lammienancy@aol.com JMC PUBLICATIONS, PRINTING, GRAPHICS & DESIGN

VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 40 Pills + 10 FREE. SPECIAL $99.00 100% guaranteed.

FREE Shipping! 24/7 CALL NOW! 1-888-223-8818 ___________________________________________________________ VIAGRA & CIALIS! 50 pills for $95. 100 pills for $150 FREE shipping. NO prescriptions needed. Money back guaranteed! 1-877-743-5419 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- ITEMS FOR SALE -----------Mon Valley Memorial Park, Donora. Lawn Crypt, Garden, All Faiths, Lot, Vault, Memorial, Granite, Vase. Call 724-379-6866. ___________________________________________________________ Stack On Tool Box 2 pieces closed bottom cabinet Like New $115. Text to: 412886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Real Fur Coat with bell striped sleeves $75. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________

Antique "Red Eye" Singer Sewing Machine with Solid Wood 4 Drawer Cabinet beautiful $275. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Vintage Sears Roebuck Silvertone 1940's Tube Radio in Solid Cherry Wood Cabinet $1995.00. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Pair Vintage Pink Colored Etched Glass Hurricane Lamps with Prisms $40 each.

Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Vintage Duncan Phyfe Solid Mahogany Wood Furniture: China Cabinet $475, Buffet $395, Pedestal Table (needs repaired & refinished) $50, 3 chairs $5 each.

Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Like New Morse Heavy Duty Sewing Machine in Lovely cherry wood finish cabinet with 4 drawers $275. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ (2) Like New One of a Kind Lovely Wrought iron side tables with basket weave top $45. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ One of a kind Nordic Country French Large Table Beautiful Carved Wood $375.

Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Lovely foldable Wrought Iron Bakers Rack with 3 Shelves $50. Text to: 412886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ (4) New in Original Boxes Lovely Garden Steel Arbors $30 each. Text to: 412886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Beige leather couch & loveseat, asking $500.00 for both. Call 412-678-4552 ___________________________________________________________ Fine China by Treasure House of CA. Complete service for 8 plus 2 vegetable dishes & large meat platter. Dishes are off white edged in silver with silver with small pink roses & green leaves in center. Must see to appreciate quality & condition $125.00.

724-929-3891 ___________________________________________________________ Mon Valley Memorial Park, Donora, 2 Lots and 2 Vaults, $3600. 2 Lots, $1600.

Deed transfers included. Call: 724-258-8631, leave message. ___________________________________________________________ 4 adjoining cemetery plots for sale in MonValley Memorial Park,Donora.Located in "Five Flags" section.$875 each,includes $95 per plot deed transfer fee.Call 724632-6694.

If not home leave a message and we will call you back. ___________________________________________________________ Cemetery lots for sale,Lafayette Memorial Cemetery,2 lots + 2 vaults,$3,000 +___________________________________________________________ transfer. 724-632-5605.

Safe Step Walk-In Tub Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved

by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door. AntiSlip Floors.American Made. Installation Included. Call 1-800-906-3115 for $750 Off ___________________________________________________________

----------- ITEMS WANTED -------Volume pedal for guitar. Call Vince 724-258-4815 ___________________________________________________________ Buying vintage ladies/men’s clothing/accessories. Victorian thru 1970’s. Call Gloria 724-263-2239 or Bonnie 412-997-2943 ___________________________________________________________ Wanted - Bugle with no pistons. Reasonable. 724-696-5221 ___________________________________________________________

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

January 2016 ————————————————————————————————————————— Wanted - Working wall mounted urinal for man's bathroom. 724-696-5221 ___________________________________________________________ Donate a car to a young Christian girl with three children (2 are special needs).

Please help if you can. Thank you. Call 724-621-0505 ___________________________________________________________ Indian arrowheads all natiave American artifacts and all vintage costume jewelry.

Call 724-428-3695 ___________________________________________________________ Buying Old Sportscard Collections! - Seeking vintage era baseball, football and basketball cards. 1970's and earlier.Will also buy newer cards from 1980-2000's if in good shape. Call me FIRST before you throw away old boxes of cards. Paying CASH! 412-760-2291. ___________________________________________________________ Old electrical insulators used on utility poles. Glass or porcelain. Call 724-7820539. ___________________________________________________________ Tektronix oscilloscope, excellent working condition, newer model (1980s or newer), preferably with manual, must be very low price. Call Bob in Monongahela at 724-258-6236 ___________________________________________________________ Old radio/tv/amp tubes for my antique jukebox and guitar amp. 724-258-6236 ___________________________________________________________ Outdoor plastic lighted blow mold Christmas decorations & vintage Christmas stuff.

Call 412-384-8759 or email caminda2008@yahoo.com. ___________________________________________________________ Wanted - vintage and antique toy cap guns, toy guns,holsters and any old western TV memorabilia. Some popular brands are Mattel, Kilgore, Stevens, Nichols, but I am interested in any and all. Collecting these items is my hobby and I would really appreciate a call if you have anything.I will pay cash.Please ask for Jeff at 724-7820721 or 724-713-0289. ___________________________________________________________ Collecting miscellaneous items for the needy. Call Louise at 724-483-8600. ___________________________________________________________ JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ___________________________________________________________ Canning Jars Wanted. Reasonable. 412-403-2753. ___________________________________________________________ Wanted to Buy.Silver Coins.1964 or older.Will pay 20-times face value! Call Dave at 724-941-5420. ___________________________________________________________ Wanted - 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, old Christmas and sterling silver, anything OLD! Please call me. Jim Gillespie at 412-979-7050 or home 724-348-6203.

CASH PAID- up to $25/Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. 1-DAYPAYMENT.1-800-371-1136 ___________________________________________________________ Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ___________________________________________________________ Want To Purchase Minerals And Other Oil/Gas Interests. Send Details To: PO Box 13557, Denver CO 80201. ___________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

Cash for unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS or GIFT CARDS or STOP SMOKING PRODUCTS! Free Shipping, Best Prices & 24 hr payment! Call 1-855-440-4001 www.TestStripSearch.com.

Habla Espanol. ___________________________________________________________

----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Donate a car to a young Christian girl with three children (2 are special needs).

Please help if you can. Thank you. Call 724-621-0505 ___________________________________________________________ New Large Garden Faux Fountain $50. Steel Courtyard Fencing Black New $85.

(2) Wall Placs made in England $25 each. Artists Deluxe Wood Easel Never Used $40.

Vintage Wolf Lamp $35. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Book Collection Most New of Art,Architecture, Design, Gardening $2 each. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Lovely new wood Potting Bench with Lattice Back Not Used $85. Text to: 412886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ One of a kind Pyramid Shaped Outdoor Fire Place $60. Text to:412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Large Like New CharBroil Glass Cover Pro Look Chrome Handle Barbeque Grill with extra cook top & side shelf $60. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Large Vintage Painting in beautiful square frame of Gold Leaf & Carved Wood $3000.

Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Misc. Vintage Items For Sale - Vintage Western Horse Clock $45. Vintage Music Albums 33's $2 each. Vintage Victorian clothing, hats $1 each. Vintage shoes $1 each. Vintage Solid Hardwood Large Rectangular Desk or Table with (2) drawers $199; Vintage 4 piece Solid Wood one of a kind Bedroom Set with Granite Look Finish & Metal Work shelves $900. 1930 Vintage Solid Wood Cabinet with Spacious Closet & Drawers $75. Vintage 1930's Solid Wood Vanity with Bench 4 spacious drawers & beautiful triple mirror $240. (2) Vintage Solid Wood Chest of Drawers $50 each.

Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ Designer Women's shoes size 7, Most New $4 each. Text to: 412-886-6579 ___________________________________________________________ (2) Curly Design Wrought Iron Garden Chairs $25 each. Text to: 412-8866579 ___________________________________________________________ EASY CASH! - Sell your old baseball cards! Ex-husband, old boyfriend, or adult kids who no longer want or need their old cards? I will buy them from you! Also buying football, basketball and hockey cards! Find an old box of sportscards in the garage or attic?

Give me a call today. 412-760-2291. ___________________________________________________________ LAWNBOY MOWERS - Used Lawnboy mowers.All 2-cycle.Gold & silver.All self propelled. Great Shape. Also wanted to buy used Lawnboys and Honda. Call 724-7456489. ___________________________________________________________ KITTENS - Healthy Herbal kittens. FREE to a good home.8-weeks old.3 male and 3 female. 5 orange and white, and 1 black and white. 724-929-4189 or 724-9292486 ___________________________________________________________

Affordable Apartment Living

messengerpaper.com 69 ——————————————————————————————————————————

AT&T U-Verse Internet starting at $15/month or TV & Internet starting at $49/month for 12 months with 1-year agreement. Call 1-800-336-4165 to learn more. ___________________________________________________________ DISH TV Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) SAVE! Regular Price $34.99 Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 877-477-9659 ___________________________________________________________ Make a Connection. Real People,Flirty Chat.Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks.

Try it FREE. Call NOW: 1-888-909-9905 18+. ___________________________________________________________ AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of___________________________________________________________ Maintenance 866-453-6204 Metal Roofing, Siding & Interior. Barns, sheds, etc. Use it yourself or resell. Huge selection.

LOW PRICES. slateroadsupply.com 717-445-5222 ___________________________________________________________ CRUISE DEALS available for a limited time. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival and Norwegian. Hurry as these offers won’t last! Call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPTRAVEL.COM to research. ___________________________________________________________ AIRLINE CAREERS. Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly.___________________________________________________________ Call AIM 888-686-1704 CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960 ___________________________________________________________ CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shi pping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com ___________________________________________________________ Junk Cars for Cash ($1,000+) All Cars:Any Condition Cash PAID Same Day! Instant Phone Quote! No Title OK! 1-866-835-9249 ___________________________________________________________ If you or a loved one took the blood thinner Xarelto and had complications due to internal bleeding after January 2012 you MAY be due financial compensation. Call Injuryfone 1-800-410-0371 ___________________________________________________________ CHILDREN’S BOOK – Looking for some wholesome reading material for your young reader? Check out Richard the Donkey and His LOUD, LOUD Voice at www.RichardTheDonkey.com ___________________________________________________________

DIRECTV Starting at $19.99/mo.FREE Installation. FREE 3 months of HBO SHOWTIME CINEMAX starz. FREE HD/DVR Upgrade! 2015 NFL Sunday Ticket Included (Select Packages) New Customers Only. CALL 1-800-614-8506 ___________________________________________________________ Make a Connection.Real People,Flirty Chat.Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks.

Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+ ___________________________________________________________ A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation's largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-800-2173942 ___________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-290-8321 to___________________________________________________________ start your application today!

VIAGRA! 52 Pills for only $99.00! The Original Blue Pill. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery Call 1-877-602-0285 ___________________________________________________________ ACCESS YOUR LAWSUIT CASH! In an Injury Lawsuit? Need Cash Now? Low Rates.

No Credit Checks/Monthly Payments. Call Now 1-800-568-8321. ___________________________________________________________ HOTELS FOR HEROES – to find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at___________________________________________________________ www.fisherhouse.org

------------- NOTICES ---------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. ___________________________________________________________ Acorn Stairlifts. The AFFORDABLE solution to your stairs! **Limited time -$250 Off Your Stairlift Purchase!** Buy Direct & SAVE. Please call 1-800-410-7127 for FREE DVD and brochure. ___________________________________________________________

————————————————————————————————————————— 70 messengerpaper.com DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-800895-7416 ___________________________________________________________ Got an older car, boat or RV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1- 800-758-2204 ___________________________________________________________ Got Knee Pain? Back Pain? Shoulder Pain? Get a pain-relieving brace -little or NO cost to you. Medicare Patients Call Health Hotline Now! 1- 800-419-3684 ___________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-208-6915 to start your application today! ___________________________________________________________

------------ PETS -------YOUNG CATS Spayed and Neutered, all shots, litter trained, FeLuk tested, loving cats fostered in homes, adoption fee $40. 724-258-8380 ___________________________________________________________ KITTENS - Healthy Herbal kittens.FREE to a good home. 8-weeks old. 3 male and 3 female. 5 orange and white, and 1 black and white. 724-929-4189 or 724-9292486 ___________________________________________________________ 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 $30.00 each. For pick up of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724941-5737. ___________________________________________________________

----------- REAL ESTATE --------Mon Valley Memorial Park, Donora. Lawn Crypt, Garden, All Faiths, Lot, Vault, Memorial, Granite, Vase. Call 724-379-6866. ___________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

Home For Sale - Bentleyville - Large 16 room home. Rented by 3 families, plus 3 bonus extra building lots, asking $91,000. If interested, please call Fred: 412-2641038 ___________________________________________________________ TWO STORY SINGLE FAMILY HOME IN MAPLEVIEW (NEAR CHARLEROI). RECENTLY REDUCED TO $45,000 FIRM. Located in a quiet residential area, aluminum siding, with 3 bedrooms, 1 ? baths, living room with decorative fireplace framed with enclosed bookcases, dining room and kitchen, this house also features a room addition with built-in bookshelves that would make a wonderful den or in-home office.Gas heat, whole house air conditioning, newer windows, full front porch, detached garage.

All appliances included (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, washer and dryer).This house is___________________________________________________________ priced to move. CALL 724-483-4908.

SO. ADK LAKEFRONT LAND & CABIN SALE! Sat. Dec 5th! One Day Only! 111 acres - Pristine Lake - $194,900 50 acres - Lakefront Cabin - $199,900 7 tracts with lakes,streams,cabins & State Land! 3 hrs NY City! Last chance this year! Terms avail!

888-738-6994 WoodworthLakePreserve.com ___________________________________________________________ HOUSE FOR RENT- 1 bedroom house in nice area of Monongahela. Yard, offstreet parking. No smoking or pets. Security deposit and references. $500 / month + utilities. 724-799-3178'

------------ SERVICES -------SNOW REMOVAL. Call Cory. 412-715-6778. Honest, Hardworking, and Reliable! (bold headline) J&L CLEANING SERVICES ___________________________________________________________ Selling your home?

Buying a home? • No job too big or small.

Residential or Commercial.

• Very competitive pricing. • South Hills-based.

• Call for a FREE quote today!

724-747-0793 ___________________________________________________________

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CARPET REPAIRS. Restretches, Patches, Installation. Small job in Rental Specialist.

25 years experience. Leave Message 412-651-8503 ___________________________________________________________ SENIOR PLACEMENT SERVICE FREE. Stan Olszewski, helping older adults since 2007 with placement in assisted living, personal care, independent living and memory/Alzheimers’ care facilities. Call Stan at Senior Lifestyles Connections, 724-7877030 (24 hrs a day/7 days a week), email stan@seniorhelpfree.com or visit www.seniorhelpfree.com. ___________________________________________________________ RON’S ALL APPLIANCE REPAIR. REPAIRING REFRIGERATORS, WASHERS, DYERS, RANGES, SUBZEROS…ONE CALL DOES IT ALL: 724-640-9383. 7 DAYS/WK, 24 HR. SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT. ___________________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up.Call:724-8257233. ___________________________________________________________ COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837. ___________________________________________________________ FREE ESTIMATES FOR LIFETIME TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY For Foundation Repair and Basement Water Proofing. Large, Local Company 1-800-343-2357 PA377 Family Movie Transfers and DVD Montage Creations by Deb Cheplic. Transfer family 8mm and Super 8 reel (projector) movies to DVD – also transfer VHS, VHS-C DV tapes, vinyl records and cassettes.

Movies transferred digitally, frame by frame, for superior clarity. No projector flicker – reasonable rates. Create a one of a kind DVD Montage of special family events. 724258-5336; email: dcheplic@gmail.com Web page:

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.

DVD TRANSFER HOME MOVIES FAMILY MOVIE TRANSFERS AND DVD MONTAGE CREATIONS

BY DEB CHEPLIC. Transfer family 8mm and Super 8 reel (projector) movies to DVD. also transfer VHS, VHS-C DV tapes, vinyl records and cassettes.

Movies transferred digitally, frame by frame, for superior clarity.

No projector flicker – reasonable rates.

Create a one of a kind DVD Montage of special family events.

724-258-5336 email: dcheplic@gmail.com Web page: http://www.debcheplicmovietransfersandmontages.com

Monthly Pizza Puzzler!

Win a FREE Large 1 Topping Pizza from Finleyville Vocelli Pizza*! Two (2) lucky winners every month!

Just fill in the correct answers to the questions below, and write your name, address and telephone number on the entry form. Then mail in your entry form to the Messenger. Each month we will draw two (2) local winners from all correct entries. Winners will receive a gift certificate good for one (1) FREE Large 1 Topping pizza from Vocelli Pizza. Remember to look for a new Monthly Pizza Puzzler every month, and send in your entry form! (*Good only at Finleyville location. One entry per household per month. Employees of the The Messenger; Haniford Enterprises LLC, or Vocelli Pizza are not eligible.)

• Official Entry Form •

(Deadline for entries is January12)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger.

When is the 3rd Annual Hoodie Hoo Day in Charleroi?

What is the name of the new restaurant in Brownsville with ‘Gone With The Wind’ theme?

Who is the new Volunteer Manager at South Hills Interfaith Ministries?

Name: Address: Phone Number: Entry forms should be submitted to: South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger, Attention: “Monthly Pizza Puzzler,” P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

Congratulations to our December Pizza Puzzler winners!

Irene Romanosky - Houston • Corey Stump - Monongahela

The MESSENGER is the premier community newspaper in the South Hills and Mon Valley area of Pittsburgh. We are a free, monthly publication seeking to expand our coverage, and grow existing territories.

The MESSENGER is looking to add experienced Sales Representatives to our growing team of professionals.

Candidates should possess: Strong sales and/or customer service skills, ability to offer clients advice on ad content and design, handle several projects at once, work on a deadline, familiarity with Mon Valley area, reliable transportation, flexible schedule, computer with internet access and a personable, friendly attitude.

Preferred candidates will possess: Prior newspaper or media experience, good communication and presentation skills and be motivated, determined and persistent.

Interested applicants should email us at dhaniford@messengerpaper.com with a resume and cover letter, or mail to P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243.

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Food & Dining Staying in or going out, plan your evening using the South Hills Messenger Dining Guide.

Dining Locally For information on how to be included in Dining Locally, call us at 412-249-8177

Daily Specials THURSDAYS Fries & Meatball Hoagie $5.25 Homemade Soups Open Flame BBQ

$13.00

DINE IN Expansion coming soon! To inquire about including your restaurant, email: Carlo@localdiningmenus.com

We Now Sell Exotic Meat!

ELK BURGERS, WILD BOAR, KANGAROO BURGERS

Come Try our New Food & Drink Menus!!

Call Ahead Food Orders!

Call us with your lunch order.

We’ll be ready!

Kitchen Hours Sun-Thurs 11AM-11PM Fri & Sat 11AM-1AM 412-384-3630 • 1520 Rt. 837, Elrama, PA 15038

www.elramatavern.com

?

Never been here

Bring the Family!

The Dai y Draw

*

at Healthy Directions

$25 Walk-in any weekday — No script needed 37-Function Multiphasic Blood Analysis**

Also 0 2 $ a g n i offer g n i t s a f nonc i s a h p multi test.

Finleyville Giant Eagle 3701 Route 88, Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone: 724-348-6699 mvhhealthydirections.com Lab Hours: Monday – Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. *12-hour fast prior to test

**Ask the Healthy Directions staff for a list of tests performed.

MM/MK-MVM/8-15