South Hills Mon Valley Messenger December 2015

FREE! DECEMBER 2015 Vol.12,Issue 7 Read us online at

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Pleasant Hills Resident Hikes the Appalachian Trail Page 22

BUSINESS NEWS: Facade Project Improves Charleroi Business District Page 36

MUNICIPAL NEWS: Monessen Council Votes NO SALE to Buildings Page 30

Local BMX Rider Heads to 2015 USA BMX Grand National Championship

VFW Post 914 West Mifflin Veterans Recount Service on Guam 70 Years Ago

C

ameron Bramer, a freshman at South Park High School, son of Jim and Rhonda Bramer of South Park, has had an outstanding BMX racing season. He was dubbed “Super Local” by USA BMX at this year’s Stars & Stripes national event, which was hosted at the legendary South Park BMX track. Cam threw down some perfect laps among some of the best riders in the country to accomplish a rare national trifecta – winning all three classes in a single day! He started off by winning in his open class against older riders, followed that up with another win on the big bike in the cruiser class, and won again once more in the largest expert class of the day! After an epic weekend of racing, he was pictured in Pull magazine and also accepted a factory sponsorship representing Black Crown BMX for the 2015 and 2016 seasons alongside current co-sponsors Dan’s Comp, Profile, SNAFU, The Wheel Mill, Liberty Sport, and Camp Three Clothing. After 30+ weekends of BMX racing and traveling around the country, it all comes down to the 2015 USA BMX Grand National Championship, also known as “the Greatest BMX Race on Earth,” held over Thanksgiving weekend in Tulsa, OK, and drawing in 3,000+ participants. As Cam is currently nationally ranked on both bikes and a top contender for national titles, he will be keeping his skills sharp and preparing for the big show by training both on the track and also at Pittsburgh’s indoor bike park, The Wheel Mill. Congratulations on a great season and good luck at Grands, Cam!

From left to right, members of West Mifflin Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid Earl Birdy, Andy Yatsko and James W. Leerberg. All three men served on the island of Guam in 1945 during World War II.

By Michael P. Mauer

W

hen World War II veterans Earl Birdy and Andy Yatsko get together on the last Thursday of each month at the Thompson Run Athletic Association on Ball Avenue in West Mifflin for their Veterans of Foreign Wars meetings, they are keeping up a long tradition of being at the same place at the same time. A tradition of more than 70 years, that is. For complete story, see page 14

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LOCAL NEWS

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Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association Holds Annual Awards Banquet The Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association held their annual awards banquet Wednesday, November 18, 2015 at Hoss's Steak House in Belle Vernon. Three awards were presented during the evening, one from the South Western Chief's Association, one from Provident Insurance Company, and one from Nova Insurance Services representing VFIS. The award from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association was presented to Chief James Higgins of Carmichaels, PA. Jim Higgins joined the Carmichaels and Cumberland Township Volunteer Fire Department (Greene County) in 1980 and became the fire chief in 1990, and has remained chief since that time; 2015 is his 26th year as fire chief. Chief Higgins is a longtime member of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association and has served as the association's president for two years. Chief Higgins is also a member of the Greene County Firemen's Association. The award presented from the Provident Insurance Company was presented to Barry Lynch of Perry Twp., PA (Fayette County). Barry joined the Perry Twp VFD when he was just 16 years of age as a junior fire fighter and has remained a member since, serving in many offices. Barry served in the US Army for two years, one of which was a tour in Vietnam. Barry was elected fire chief and served in that position for 32 years at the Perry Twp VFD. Chief Lynch has been a long time member of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association and also has served as president of the Fayette County Firemen's Association. The award presented from the Nova Insurance Services representing VFIS was presented to Gary E Ganoe of Point Marion, PA (Fayette County). Gary joined the fire service in 1972 with Point Marion Volunteer Fire Department and was elected fire chief in 1987; he has served that position for the past 27 years, and

Pictured are (l-r): Clarence Shank, current president of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association; Harold L. Whyel, current vice president of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association; Chief James Higgins, receiving the award from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association; Chief Barry Lynch, receiving the award from the Provident Insurance Company; Ray Burhart ( in back) agent with Provident Insurance Company; Chief Gary Ganoe, receiving the award from Nova Insurance Services, representing VFIS; and Wayne E .Ray, Nova Insurance agent representing VFIS . Photo credit: Wayne E. Ray

remains the current fire chief. Chief Ganoe has also been a longtime member of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association and has served in the office of president of the association. Chief Ganoe is also a member of the Fayette County Firemen's Association.

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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO DECEMBER 1 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- no bingo on Dec 8 or Dec 29.) CLOTHES 4U - The First United Methodist Church, 200 State Street, Belle Vernon will be open from 9 a.m. to noon. The clothing is free; patrons may give a free-will offering if they desire. Bags will be given to patrons when they come in to browse around. Anyone wishing to drop off clothing in good condition for this ministry can do so by calling the church office at 724-929-4696. PAINT & SIP FUNDRAISER - 6:30 p.m., the Monessen Amphitheater will be hosting a Paint and Sip fundraiser at Off the Wall Arts in Charleroi. Tickets are

$40, advanced purchase, and cover snacks, supplies, and non-alcoholic drinks, 21+ only. Tickets can be purchased at the Monessen Library, or monessenamphitheater@gmail.com. CHRISTMAS CAROLS - 12:30 p.m., students from Cal U and Monessen High School will perform Christmas Carols in the first floor lobby of the Monessen Municipal Complex. The event is free and open to the public. DECEMBER 2 WOMEN’S CLUB OF JEFFERSON HILLS - 6:30 p.m., Jefferson Hills Municipal Building on Old Clairton Road. Annual Holiday Party and meeting. Husbands and guests are invited, reservations are required. The scheduled program will be “Jimmy Sapienza, and his gifted blind pianist, Keith Stebler.” Membership is open to all residents of Jefferson Hills, as well as the surrounding communities. For further information

please call 412-384-3318 or 412-6554224. Meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Hills Municipal Building. DECEMBER 3 FOOD AND FRIENDS FREE MEAL PROGRAM – 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Thomas Presbyterian Church, 1068 Linden Road, Venetia, PA. All are welcome. For info, contact Patti at 724-941-6609. DECEMBER 3-6 MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, THE MUSICAL –presented by Cal U Department of Theatre and Dance. Local singers, actors, dancers and technicians will join Cal U students in Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre. Showtime is 7 p.m. Dec. 3, 4, and 5, with matinees at 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6. All performances are open to the public. Ticket price is $12 for patrons of all ages. For more information, or to order tickets, call the Steele Hall Box Office at 724-938-5943.

DECEMBER 4 FRIDAY NIGHT GROCERY BINGO - Doors open 5:30 Bingo starts at 7, Bunola VFD, Bunola River Rd., Bunola. Cash Jackpot. Food and drinks available. SOUTH PARK LIGHT UP NIGHT The Friends of South Park will be holding their 2nd annual “Light Up Night” at the Gazebo on Maple Springs Drive at 6 p.m., Santa will arrive at 6:30. The Community House across the street from the gazebo will be made available for refreshments and of course the arrival of Santa! Free family event! P OLDIES DANCE – Solid Gold. Carmichaels Senior Center. 7 – 11 PM. For more information, please call Geno at 724-592-5264.

DECEMBER 4-6 “HARK” CHRISTMAS CONCERT Elizabeth Forward High on December

December 2015 ————————————————————————————————————————— 4th & 5th at 7:30 and December 6th at 3 p.m. Presented by the Elizabeth Forward Area Community Chorus. Ticket prices at the door are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors/students. A discount of $2 is available on each ticket purchased in advance. Please call 412-751-0526 to purchase a ticket at the reduced price. A portion of the proceeds benefit a local charity. Canned goods for the Food Bank will be collected at each concert.

DECEMBER 4-6 RED BIRD MISSION CRAFTS – Friday, 6-8 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wrights United Methodist Church of Venetia is hosting Red Bird Mission Crafts to give you an opportunity to enjoy quality Appalachian crafts. CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE OF VENETIA – Wrights Methodist Church. December 4, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., December 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., December 6, 12 – 5 p.m. Christmas tree lighting ceremony, train display, bonfire, craft show, Vintage Kaufmann’s Christmas display, Breakfast with Santa.

DECEMBER 5 BOOK SALE AND FLEA MARKET 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Donora Public Library, 510 Meldon Ave., Donora. HOLIDAY ARTIST MARKET – 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., McMurray Art League Studio, (Near Atria’s Restaurant), McDowell Shops Shopping Center, 4069 Washington Rd, McMurray. CITY CHRISTMAS PARTY – 6 p.m., the Monessen Civic Center will host a City Christmas Party for adults and children. Tickets can be purchased by contacting the civic center. The cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children. There will be cookie decorating, crafts, and the Yelo Sno Band will perform. SOUTH PARK WOMEN’S CLUB – Annual Holiday Luncheon, beginning at 11:30 a.m., St. Joan of Arc Church Hall, for all members. CHRISTMAS COOKIE WALK - St. Thomas A Becket School Building at 139 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills 11:00 a.m., until 2:00 p.m. Cookies are sold for $8.00 a pound. DENNIS BOWMAN & FRIENDS – First United Methodist Church, 430 West Main St, Monongahela. 4:00 p.m., (doors open at 3:30 p.m.) Free Admission.

“WARM UP WITH JESUS” - 1-3 p.m., Presbyterian Church of Charleroi. Bring your child or teen. We will have free gently used coats to choose from along with a new hat and a pair of gloves. There will be light refreshments and fun activities for everyone. For more information call 724-483-5861.

DECEMBER 5-6 CHRISTMAS CRAFT & BAKE SALE - St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main Street, Uniontown, is holding its annual Christmas Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday, from noon -5 p.m. and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the upstairs school hall. The many craft items have been made by St. John’s Ethnic Craft Club. Also available is a wide assortment of delicious baked goods. Parking is in the back which is handicap accessible. For information call the church office 724438-6027 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. SANTA TROLLEY AT THE PENNSYLVANIA TROLLEY MUSEUM 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last trolley with Santa leaves at 4 p.m.). Admission is just $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62+) and $8 for children ages 1-15; children under 1 are free. Admission includes trolley rides and exhibits. Seating is limited and purchasing advanced reserved tickets is encouraged. They can be purchased online through our www.patrolley.org website beginning Sunday November 1. Tickets will be available for purchase 30 days before the date you want to attend. For information call 724-228-9256 or visit the Museum’s website at www.patrolley.org.

DECEMBER 6 SPAGHETTI BENEFIT DINNER 12p.m. to 6p.m., dine in or take out. Elizabeth VFC Bingo Hall, 101 S. 1st Ave, Elizabeth. Adults - $10, kids 5 to 12 - $5, Kids under 4 - Free. Includes spaghetti, salad, roll, and a non-alcoholic beverage. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by contacting Melissa at 412352-8947, Jamie at 412-654-4058, Andrea at 412-651-3560, or at Colonial Beer Distributor, 4986 Library Rd, Bethel Park. All proceeds go directly to the Pastorik family to help with travel costs, medical bills, and living expenses. Matthew Pastorik, 33, of South Park, has been diagnosed with a glioblastoma, a life threatening brain tumor.

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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO DECEMBER 6 HOLIDAY CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Company. There will be over 40 tables of crafters and vendors for your shopping pleasure. Please join us. CHANUKAH LUNCHEON and SILENT AUCTION – 12:30 p.m., Beth Israel Center Synagogue, 115 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. $18 adults /$9 children 12 years old or younger RSVP by Dec. 1 at 412-6552144. For additional information about events or membership at Beth Israel Center check the website at www.bethisraelpgh.org or call 412-655-2144. MONESSEN COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS - Noon-5:30 p.m., there will be Community Christmas at the Monessen Library. We are currently collecting new or gently used hats, scarves, and gloves, to give to any kids that attend the event. There will be free music in the

library from 2:30-4:30 p.m. by Jessica Kovach of Monessen, as well as Shane Turner of Uniontown. Cal U carolers will stroll and sing Christmas carols, and the Community Christmas tree will be lit, and decorated with ornaments make by children at the Monessen Library. Photos with Santa will also be taken. There will be crafts, snacks, and hot cocoa. The event is free and open to the public. FROSTY’S FUNHOUSE - 2 - 4 p.m., Community Recreation Center, Peterswood Park. Stop by Frosty’s Fun House at the Community Recreation Center for some holiday crafts. Children ages 10 and under invited. Parents must remain with their children during the event. Fee: $5 Resident / $8 NonResident (per child participating). TREE LIGHTING – 6 p.m., Peters Township Municipal Complex & Library. Come to the Peters Township Municipal Complex to see Santa arrive in his shiny

red fire truck and enjoy the sounds of the season, followed by a visit with Santa, a craft and refreshments in the library immediately following the Tree lighting ceremony. All ages are welcome. Come and enjoy the evening and meet and greet old and new friends. Free. MON VALLEY COIN CLUB MEETING - 12 p.m., 303 Chamber Plaza, Charleroi, PA. All members and the general public are invited. Program for this meeting will be the annual Christmas party. Cost is $11 per person. Applications are now being accepted for membership. A 50/50 will be offered and prizes will be awarded for kids. For additional information call 724-984-6611. TAILGATE FOR TOTSCHARLEROI AREA INTERACT CLUB - The Charleroi Area High School/Middle School Interact Club is sponsoring “Tailgate for Tots.” Activities will take place in the Alumni Room

(located at the top of the football stadium) from 1 to 5 p.m. All toys and gifts that are collected will be distributed to students from the Charleroi Area School District. For information concerning donations please call Ms Jessica Fritch at 724-483-3509, Ext. 3256; or Mrs. Colleen Arnowitz at 724-258-5631.

DECEMBER 8 MON VALLEY YMCA ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON - 2 p.m. 2 Fine Caterers will be catering the luncheon along with YMCA Christmas caroling and raffles. The cost per person $20. Call 724-483-8077 for more information. SOUTH HILLS FRIENDS OF THE MONTOUR TRAIL MEETING 6:30 p.m. at the South Park Township community room. The South Hills Friends are responsible for maintenance of the Montour Trail between Library and Clairton. Individuals interested in

December 2015 ————————————————————————————————————————— 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 website, www.montourtrail.org. Questions may be directed to info@montourtrail.org. JINGLE PAWS BINGO – 6-10 p.m., Southpointe Country Club. Tickets just $30 and includes appetizers and a cash bar plus raffles, and local vendors! All proceeds benefit the Washington Area Humane Society! http://jinglepawsbingo.eventbrite.com/.

Belle Vernon (right off Interstate 70, exit 42). Enjoy Christmas as it was when you were a kid at a Christmas Open House and Pajama Party to benefit Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Refreshments will be served and admission is a new pair of pajamas for women and children staying in the shelters. All are welcome. HAPPY HOUR - 4:30-7:30, Repipi Winery, 93 Van Voorhis Drive, Monongahela PA 15063. Live music and food for purchase.

DECEMBER 11-13 CLOTHES 4U - The First United Methodist Church, 200 State Street, Belle Vernon will be open from 9 a.m. to noon. The clothing is free; patrons may give a free-will offering if they desire. Bags will be given to patrons when they come in to browse around. Anyone wishing to drop off clothing in good condition for this ministry can do so by calling the church office at 724-929-4696. VALLEY ART CLUB MEETING - 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., The Back Porch, 114 Speers St. , Belle Vernon. Regular meetings will resume in April 2016. SOUTH HILLS COIN CLUB - 8 p.m., Bethel Presbyterian Church, 2999 Bethel Church Road in Bethel Park. All members and the general public are invited. This month’s program will be the annual Christmas party. A 50/50 will be offered and kids prizes to be awarded. Applications are now being accepted for membership. For more information call 724-984-6611.

DECEMBER 9 OLDIES DANCE – Solid Gold. Hazelkirk American Legion. 7 – 10 PM. For more information, please call Geno at 724-592-5264.

“PRECIOUS EMMANUEL” PRODUCTION – Original production performed on Friday, 7 p.m., Saturday, 6 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m., Windover Hills UMC, 6751 Ridge Road, South Park. This is free and open to the public. For more information visit www.windoverhills.com or by calling 412-653-6899. JINGLE IN THE CITY - A dramatic Christmas musical, will be presented by the Fine Arts Department at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 11, 12 and 13, South Hills Assembly of God Church, 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park. 412-835-8900. Visit a 1940s city in New York, hear your favorite Christmas carols and songs set to a big band beat, a beautiful telling of the nativity story, and much more. Admission is free; a free-will offering will be taken.

DECEMBER 11-12 JEWELRY SALE TO BENEFIT TROOPS AND VETERANS - Friday, December 11, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, December 12, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; South Park Community Center, 2675 Brownsville Road, South Park. Sponsored by Operation Troop Appreciation. Fabulous selection beginning at $1 each. Nothing more than $5.

DECEMBER 12 DECEMBER 11 FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT - “It Happened On 5th Avenue” at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Monongahela. Refreshments and door prizes - 724-258-7054

CHRISTMAS BAKE SALE - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Jefferson United Methodist Church, 310 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills. Many homemade items: Cakes, Pies, Candy, Cupcakes, Christmas Rolls, Cookie Trays.

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.

CHRISTMAS COOKIE PARADE – 3rd annual parade! 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Come early for best selection. Crafts and Door Prizes. First United Methodist Church of Monongahela, 724-258-7054

PAJAMA PARTY – 4-8 p.m. at The Good Ol’ Days Nostalgic Guesthouse, located at 914 Broad Avenue in North

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PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO DECEMBER 12 HOMEMADE COOKIE SALE – 9 -11 a.m. Baldwin Community United Methodist Women are having their annual homemade cookie sale. Cookies will be sold for $8 per pound. 5001 Baptist Road across from Caste Village Shopping Center. Proceeds benefit missions. CHRISTMAS DINNER DANCE Dinner Starts at 6:30, Dancing from 7:30 – 11 p.m., Charleroi Elks Ballroom. Open to the public. Admission: $20 per person, and includes dinner and dancing. Please call 412-881-7223 or 724-678-9053 for Tickets and Reservations. DJ: Ralph Trilli. PET PICTURES WITH SANTA – 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Budd Baer Auto Group, 71 Murtland Avenue in Washington. Bring the whole family, 2- and 4-legged, for a fun-filled holiday event! Social pets of all types, sizes, breeds and age are welcome. Please have proof of rabies vaccination.

All pets must be properly on a leash or in a carrier. Proceeds benefit Washington Area Humane Society. ‘HELP A NEIGHBOR IN NEED’ DAY – 8 a.m. -4 p.m.: Monessen Gives Back: ‘Help a Neighbor In Need’ Day. Residents are encouraged to help neighbors with anything from snow shoveling, to shopping, etc. If the weather is cooperative, picking up leaves and trash within the city’s streets and parks is also a possibility. CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK - 4-5:30 p.m., the Monessen Amphitheater Committee will host ‘Christmas in the Park’ at the Monessen City Park Amphitheater. The event is free and open to the public. It will include a light display, Christmas tree lighting, Christmas ornament decorating, Christmas carolers, musical selections by members of Monessen High School band, and free photos with Santa.

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OLDIES DANCE - White Oak American Legion Post #710 located at 2813 Capital St. in White Oak will sponsor an oldies dance from 7 to 11 p.m. A 50/50 will be offered. Admission is $5 per person. All proceeds benefit veterans programs. Music from the ‘50s and early ‘60s by Candy and Mike. For more information call 724-984-6611. DECEMBER 12-13 SANTA TROLLEY AT THE PENNSYLVANIA TROLLEY MUSEUM 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last trolley with Santa leaves at 4 p.m.). Admission is just $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62+) and $8 for children ages 1-15; children under 1 are free. Admission includes trolley rides and exhibits. Seating is limited and purchasing advanced reserved tickets is encouraged. They can be purchased on-line through our www.patrolley.org website beginning Sunday November 1. Tickets will be available for purchase 30 days before the date you want to attend. For

information call 724-228-9256 or visit www.patrolley.org. DECEMBER 13 CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY Bunola VFD, Sunday, December 13, from 1 - 4 PM. Food, games, crafts, Chinese auction, and Santa! TV available to watch Steeler game! Tickets $5 in advance, or $8 at the door. Call 412-8417310, or 724-797-1891 ADVENT PROGRAM – 7 p.m., Saint Francis of Assisi Church, (just North of Finleyville off Route 88). The Combined St. Francis of Assisi Choir and the Christmas Brass Ensemble of “Too Many Tubas� will present an Advent program welcoming Christmas with music and scriptural readings. Everyone is welcome and admission is free. SWING/JITTERBUG DANCE LESSON - Oldies and Ballroom Dance, 6 – 7 p.m. dance lesson-Swing/Jitterbug, 7 - 10

December 2015 ————————————————————————————————————————— p.m. Dance. Haymakers, 153 Main St., New Eagle. $12 includes free hour dance lesson. 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. Call 724-3510219 for info. ADULT LECTURE SERIES – 7:30 p.m., Beth Israel Center Synagogue, 115 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills. Speaker Tony Norman, writer for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The lecture is underwritten by Elaine Small in honor of Shirley Schultz. Free and open to the public. For additional information about events or membership at Beth Israel Center check the website at www.bethisraelpgh.org or call 412-655-2144. DECEMBER 14 PLEASANT HILLS GARDEN CLUB CELEBRATION - 12:30 p.m., Community Room Pleasant Hills Boro Building, 410 E, Bruceton Rd., Pleasant Hills. A Christmas celebration covered dish pot luck is planned. Members and guests are invited. See our website for more information regarding the PHGC at www.plsthillspagardnclub.com. DECEMBER 15 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- no bingo on Dec 8 or Dec 29.) CLOTHES 4U - The First United Methodist Church, 200 State Street, Belle Vernon will be open from 9 a.m. to noon. The clothing is free; patrons may give a free-will offering if they desire. Bags will be given to patrons when they come in to browse around. Anyone wishing to drop off clothing in good condition for this ministry can do so by calling the church office at 724-929-4696.

DECEMBER 16 CHRISTMAS PARTY & OLDIES DANCE – Featuring the band, Solid Gold. Please bring a covered dish. Hazelkirk American Legion. 7 – 10 PM. For more information, please call Geno at 724-592-5264. DECEMBER 17 RETIRED MEN’S LUNCHEON GROUP OF PLEASANT HILLS – Noon, Fellowship Hall of the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church,

located at the corner of Old Clairton Road and Audrey Drive in Pleasant Hills. The Thomas Jefferson High School Jazz Ensembles will perform under the direction of James Mirabella. Cost is $7. For additional information, or to indicate your intention to attend, call the office of the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church at 412-655-2000. Please call by Friday, December 11, 2015 to be included in the lunch order. FOOD AND FRIENDS FREE MEAL PROGRAM – 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Thomas Presbyterian Church, 1068 Linden Road, Venetia. All are welcome. For info, contact Patti at 724-941-6609.

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DECEMBER 18 CHRISTMAS DINNER DANCE – 6:30 p.m., The Pittsburgh South Hills Elks, 2425 South Park Road, Bethel Park PA 15102. Band: Silver Sky Dinner, 6:30 p.m., Christmas Theme Eggnog Party all in one reservations by December 11th. Tickets sold in advance. Call: 412-8310616. Visa, Master, Discover Cards accepted. 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. BOOK DISCUSSION: BEING MORTAL – 7:30 p.m., Beth Israel Center Synagogue, 115 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills. Services and discussion of the book BEING MORTAL led by Rabbi Amy Greenbaum. For additional information about events or membership at Beth Israel Center check the website at www.bethisraelpgh.org or call 412-6552144. DECEMBER 22 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- no bingo on Dec 8 or Dec 29.)

DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE - Dinner Starts at 7 p.m.., Dancing at 8 p.m., Charleroi Elks Ballroom. Open to the public. Admission: $30 per person, and includes dinner and dancing. Please call 412-881-7223 or 724-678-9053 for tickets and reservations. DJ: Ralph Trilli.

Introducing Rostraver Imaging Monongahela Valley Hospital is expanding our diagnostic imaging services with the opening of a second outpatient diagnostic imaging facility in Belle Vernon.

Rostraver Imaging offers:

• Open MRI • CT Scans • Ultrasound • X-Rays

Open Weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Most insurance plans accepted. Free parking.

Peasant Village Professional Plaza 100 Peasant Village Lane Suite 102 Belle Vernon, PA 15012

724-929-6736 MM/CL-MVM/10-15

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LOCAL NEWS

Squadron to Hold Awards Banquet/Cadet Change of Command in Honor of CAP Anniversary Members and guests will witness the Washington County Composite Squadron 601’s Cadet Change of Command, which will take place during the Annual Awards Banquet being held on December 1, 2015. The Banquet is in observance of Civil Air Patrol’s 74th anniversary. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was established December 1, 1941, less than a week before the beginning of American involvement in World War II. CAP won recognition during that time for its coastal patrol and other civil defense activities. The Washington County Composite Squadron, commanded by Capt. Nancy Parker, meets every Wednesday at the National Guard Armory in Washington from 7-9 p.m. It is one of 1,500-plus squadrons around the country involved in activities celebrating CAP’s founding just before the start of American involvement in World War II. Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Force’s Total Force, which consists of Regular Air Force, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, along with Air Force retired military and civilian employees. CAP, in its Total Force role, operates a fleet of 550 aircraft and performs about 85% of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 70 lives annually. Civil Air Patrol’s 58,000 members nationwide also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies.

St. Thomas A’ Becket’s Plans 2nd Annual Christmas Cookie Walk St. Thomas A Becket School in Jefferson Hills will hold their "2nd Annual Christmas Cookie Walk" on Saturday, December 5, from 11:00 a.m., until 2:00 p.m. The event will take place in the St. Thomas A Becket School Building, located at 139 Gill Hall Road. Cookies are sold for $8.00 a pound. Last year over 360 pounds of the very special homemade cookies were sold. Cookies are made by the people of St. Thomas A’ Becket Church. In addition, there will be compliThere will be plenty of homemade cookies mentary hot dogs, beverages and for sale at the Christmas Cookie Walk to be snacks available. Children can have held at St. Thomas A' Becket School on fun at the ‘Kids Corner’ with cookie Saturday, December 5. decorating, crafts, movies and more. This event is open to the public and all are invited to join us and take home your ready-made-Christmas Gifts, Homemade Christmas Cookies. For more information call: 412 655-2885 or 412 653-4322.

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The Friends of the Fisher House, Inc. Recognize Post 712 American Legion Riders On November 3, the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House, Inc. presented a Letter of Appreciation to the Legion Riders of Post 712 in Pleasant Hills, PA for their generous donation. The Riders held a fundraising event that generated $5,000 to benefit the Pittsburgh Fisher House. The primary focus of the Riders is to support veterans and their families from their local community. The Riders’ donation will be used to purchase food, personal care items or other items needed to provide Some of the Members of Post 712 support and comfort for the families American Legion Riders staying at the Pittsburgh Fisher House. The mission of the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House is to create a “home away from home” where family members or caregivers of veterans can stay free of charge, as long as necessary, while their veteran or service member receives care at the VA Hospital on University Drive in Oakland, PA. James Bruder, Chairman of the Board of the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House and a U. S. Navy Veteran himself stated, “I simply can’t say enough about the professionalism of the Post 712 Riders, and I certainly cannot praise the Riders enough for their generous donation.” The Riders support the Pittsburgh Fisher House primarily for two reasons: For every dollar that is donated, $0.92 goes directly to support veterans and their families; and Charity Watch, an independent group that monitors and evaluates national charities, has awarded the Pittsburgh Fisher House an A+ rating. The Riders would like to recognize the commitment and dedication of their police departments who volunteer their time and effort to ensure the safety of all Riders: Pleasant Hills Police Department, Jefferson Hills Police Department, Baldwin Borough Police Department, Connellsville Police Department, Elizabeth Police Department, and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. These men and women could never receive enough praise for their daily heroic duties. The ages of the Post 712 Riders scale from the Korean War Era to the Afghanistan Conflict. Men and women from the Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of the American Legion are eligible to become Legion Riders. The Riders are currently conducting a membership drive. For more information about the Legion Riders or joining, call 412-606-8812.

South Park “Friends” Say Thank You to Those Who Made Book Sale a Success The Friends of South Park Township Library wish to thank everyone who attended and supported their Fall 2015 Book Sale. With the continued help and support of the Community another successful sale was achieved, with monies earned given to the South Park Library, making it possible to purchase supplies, books, equipment, user items and programs, providing service to the Library and beneficial to all. Once again, thank you. Have a warm and safe winter and watch upcoming South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger issues for updates on Friends. We hope to see you all again in the spring.Visit our website at www.southparklibrary.org/spfriends.htm.

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LOCAL NEWS

Pet Pictures with Santa Planned at Washington Area Humane Society You are invited to join the Washington Area Humane Society (WAHS) Saturday, December 12th from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Budd Baer Auto Group for pet pictures with Santa, 71 Murtland Avenue in Washington. Bring the whole family, 2- and 4-legged, for a fun-filled holiday event! Crafts for the kids, refreshments, raffle baskets and more are planned for the day, and Santa will be expecting you! Photo Prices: • $10 - 4x6 print • $5 - Additional prints • $12 - Email of file sent to you • $15 - Digital copy plus 4x6 print Social pets of all types, sizes, breeds and age are welcome. Please have proof of rabies vaccination. All pets must be properly on a leash or in a carrier. Proceeds benefit Washington Area Humane Society. The Washington Area Humane Society is a no-kill shelter. WAHS prides itself on giving every animal a chance at a loving permanent home regardless of age or medical condition. WAHS is funded solely by private contributions and donations. Visit http://washingtonpashelter.org/ for more information.

PETERS TOWNSHIP RECREATION CENTER PLANS HOLIDAY EVENTS Peters Township Recreation Center, located at 700 Meredith Drive, Venetia, has the following holiday events planned: Frosty’s Funhouse (AGES 10 AND UNDER) Stop by Frosty’s Fun House at the Community Recreation Center for some holiday crafts. Let your children come and create a masterpiece that you will enjoy forever. Parents must remain with their children during the event. Day: Sunday, December 6, 2015 Time: 2 - 4 p.m. Fee: $5 Resident / $8 Non-Resident (per child participating) Location: Community Recreation Center, Peterswood Park Tree Lighting Come to the Peters Township Municipal Complex to see Santa arrive in his shiny red fire truck and enjoy the sounds of the season, followed by a visit with Santa, a craft, and refreshments in the library immediately following the treelighting ceremony. All ages are welcome. Day: Sunday, December 6, 2015 Time: 6 p.m. Fee: Free Location: Peters Township Municipal Complex & Library

Jefferson Hills Police Department Plans Toy Drive The Jefferson Hills Police Department and Mayor Jan Cmar are conducting a holiday toy drive for local children. Please drop off your donation at the Borough Police Department, first floor of the Municipal Center, 925 Old Clairton Road, before December 15. To apply for this assistance, please pick up an application at the police department weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Annual MVH/Lois Orange Ducoeur Breast Cancer Walk Raises Awareness and Funds The 2015 Monongahela Valley Hospital/Lois Orange Ducoeur Breast Cancer Walk marks 12 years of growth and success. The committee of 20 dedicated community members worked together to create an event that attracted more than 450 participants and raised $25,000. The proceeds from the Walk will be used to support the prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer in the community at Monongahela Valley Hospital. “It was a celebratory atmosphere,” said Melissa Marion, MVH’s director of Fund Development. “It was wonderful to see so many breast cancer survivors participating as well as teams made up of families, friends and co-workers whose lives were touched by breast cancer.” Walkers were asked to make a minimum donation of $10 each to participate and many collected donations from family, friends and neighbors. Breast cancer survivors were honored before the walk began with a group photo and a celebratory wave of Pink Power Towels. A moment of silence was also observed to remember those affected by breast cancer and those who lost their battles with breast cancer. Once the walk began, McKean and Fallowfield avenues in Charleroi were filled with a sea of pink. People pushed babies in strollers and included their pets on leashes. Major event sponsors included: MarBill Diamonds & Jewelry, The Valley Independent, Allenport Rod & Gun Club, Five Star Drywall, Inc., Iron Order Motorcycle Club — Hot Metal Chapter, and the Monessen/Rostraver Rotary. The walk was created to honor the memory of Lois Orange Ducoeur, who lost her battle with cancer in 1965 at age 54. The Ducoeur family operated Orange’s Gift store and Ducoeur Furniture Store in Charleroi for 118 years.

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‘Soup and Stroll’ Open House Planned at Venetia’s Wright House The Peters Creek Historical Society will host its annual ‘Soup and Stroll’ Open House on Sunday, December 6 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Wright House, 815 Venetia Road, Venetia. Guests are invited to experience a Williamsburg Christmas in the ambiance of the 19th Century Enoch Wright House, a National and State Historic Registry The front door of the Enoch Wright House is site, as well as to enjoy a bedecked in Christmas finery. hearty soup supper prepared by members. Visitors may stroll through the upstairs, visit the mining room and meet Father Christmas with their Santa wishes. The log cabin will be open for visitation as well as interpretation by guest re-enactors. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 9 and under and can be purchased through society members or at the door. For more information, call 724-746-3203.

“Comfort Bags” at Canonsburg Hospital Help to Soothe Pediatric Patients During Emergency Room Visits Greater Canonsburg Lions Club Marks Children’s Grief Awareness Day with Donation In commemoration of Children’s Grief Awareness Day, the Greater Canonsburg Lions Club presented gift bags designed to make a child’s emergency department visit as soothing and stress free as possible to Canonsburg Hospital on Thursday, November 19. The “comfort bag” project was spearheaded by Lion’s Club Chaplain and Assistant Supervisor for Security at Canonsburg Hospital Michael Kazmarski in memory of his son, Liam Michael Kazmarski, who died July 31, 2015 at age 3 while undergoing treatment for leukemia. “When Liam was in the cancer unit at Children’s Hospital, he received a comfort bag and it took his mind off of things,” said Michael Kazmarski. “I figured if it worked for my son, it would work here. If we give children something to do, hold or cuddle, they are able to work better with hospital staff and their parents are able to be more stress-free and relaxed.” The comfort bags are filled with items to make a young child’s visit to the ER more pleasant, including a blanket, books, crayons, coloring books, a stuffed toy and educational materials. The bags are designed for children ages 1 to 6. Kazmarski and the Lions Club delivered 30 comfort bags to Canonsburg Hospital’s Emergency Department with plans to replenish the supply through this ongoing service project.

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NEWS FROM THE DONORA HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND SMOG MUSEUM Cement City Walking Tours A crisp, cool, yet sunny October 4th Sunday afternoon greeted 26 guests on our most recent Cement City Home and Walking Tour. This closes out our fifth year of hosting architectural and historical enthusiasts from all over southwestern PA and beyond. This also completes our second year of hosting tours in both the spring and fall. With a continually growing waiting list, we anticipate hosting two tours again next year in April/May and then again in September/October in celebration of the 99th anniversary of our beloved Historic District completed in 1917. The tours started at the museum with a photo presentation on Thomas Edison’s Cement City, as well as the showing of artifacts and original blueprints during the construction from 1916 and 1917. A walking tour followed in the Historic District to point out various architectural details. The walk concluded by touring the interior of two homes that have a couple of rooms restored to period. If you have any questions about Cement City or one of our Home and Walking Tours, please consult our website and click the “Cement City” tab, or call or email the historical society.

Diary of a First Street Rambler On Saturday, October 10th at 1 p.m., the Donora Historical Society welcomed Monessen native and author Ralph E. Stone, who did a reading and book signing of his book, Diary of a First Street Rambler. Books are still available for purchase and the proceeds will benefit the Donora Historical Society. Stone’s discussion featured stories about his

experiences of growing up in Monessen as a youth during the 1940s, as well as stories about Donora and Stan “The Man” Musial. This would make a great Christmas gift.

Outreach Opportunities Our outreach opportunities continued, as we took the Donora Historical Society on the road to visit the Lawrenceville Historical Society on October 21st to present the “1948 Smog” in front of a group of over 30 attendees in the historic Carnegie Library of Lawrenceville. We are anticipating returning again next year to present “Cement City.” Also for next September of 2016, we were invited back to the South Park Historical Society to present Stan “The Man” Musial. We were in South Park last April to present the “1948 Smog.”

Ham Radio Special Event In recognition of the 67th anniversary of the 1948 Smog, the Donora Historical Society collaborated with the Monessen Amateur Radio Club during a special event held on Saturday, October 24th. The Monessen Amateur Radio Club set up a 40-foot antennae and operated a radio station located at Palmer Park, in Donora, making contact with Hams from all over the northern United States, as well as Canada.

For Further Info… If you have additional questions, feel free to stop by or email DonoraHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or by calling 724-823-0364 and leave a message. Or visit us on the web at www.DonoraHistoricalSociety.org.

Jefferson Hills Announces ‘Festival of Trees’ Celebration The Borough of Jefferson Hills will display a dozen specially themed holiday trees and decorations throughout the Municipal Center, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, from December 1 – January 3. The public is invited to view the display during regular library or Municipal Center business hours. Come celebrate the season with us!

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Belle Vernon Plans ‘Homes for the Holidays’ Home Tour The community of Belle Vernon is holding its first annual ‘Homes for the Holidays’ home tour. The event will take place on Sunday, December 6, 2015 from 1 to 5:30 p.m. Six homeowners will invite guests into their homes to raise money for the Belle Vernon Reality Tour, a drug prevention program held monthly at the Belle Vernon High School in cooperation with Mon Valley Hospital. The first home on the tour is owned by Mark and Kim Ciccarelli. Built in 1940 by Dr. John Wood Gordon, the home maintains several of its wonderfully original features. The two-story Dutch colonial reflects a primitive décor with original wide-planked, hardwood floors, floor to ceiling pine paneling, built-in bookshelves, and two gas fireplaces. The second home has been recently purchased by Jason and Kelly Macko. This home was custom built in 1962, and even though the homeowners intend on updating the house, at this point it stands “frozen in time.” Imported Italian marble flooring in the foyer greet guests, and the home boasts of many custom pieces, but the Oscars go to the hand-painted murals of the front and back of the home that covet the walls of the “party room.” Sheltered from the stormy seas of the Massachusetts coast is our third home. Purchased by Matt and Darlene Terchick in 1974, this quaint New England Cape Cod was named the “Better Homes & Gardens” house of the year! A carefully choreographed Colonial décor extends from the sunlit-breakfast nook to the conversation-inviting living

room. Hardwood floors reflect the amber glow of the gas log fireplace. Mike and Cathy Milinovich own the fourth home, built in 1896, which was part of the Belle Vernon area that used to be called “Victorian Row.” Bedecked with the intricately carved staircases, crown molding, and rosette corner blocks, the home also retains the original 1896 ornately carved front door! Renovations include a wrap-around porch with custom-made gingerbread, and an extended living room that is in keeping with the period of the house. The fifth house is a Mon Valley favorite owned by Melanie Patterson. Known as the Good Ol’ Days House, this 1928 American foursquare vacation rental home has been featured in various magazines and Internet. The extraordinary décor highlights memorabilia from the 1950s to 1980s! Visitors enter a nostalgic “time machine” from the moment they enter. Each room is elaborately decorated with items that evoke fond memories for all ages. Finally, our sixth home is owned by Greg and Valerie Homanics. Upon purchasing this house, the family realized that this 1840 farmhouse needed a total renovation! Custom pieces from local artists and cherished family members are displayed throughout. Both the handbuilt koi pond with the stone from the land and the restoration of the original barn depict a showcase of the elite craftsmanship and design of Greg and Valerie. Completing this pastoral scene on five rolling acres is a menagerie of sheep, cows, chickens, and honeybees.

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Dennis Bowman is Coming to Monongahela and He’s Bringing His Puppet Friends Ventriloquist and former KDKA-TV weatherman Dennis Bowman and his puppet friends are coming to the First United Methodist Church, 430 West Main Street in Monongahela, on Saturday, December 5. The show begins at 4p.m. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. Dennis has entertained at every type of event from school functions to AARP meetings, civic and church functions,fairs, festivals, and corporate seminars. He has also written a “How To” book called “Ventriloquism..Yes, You Can Do It, Too.” This past spring, Dennis retired from KDKA-TV after working there for ten years forecasting the weather. His career in meteorology spanned more than 43 years. Come to the show and enjoy Dennis Bowman and his friends. Admission is free.

Monongahela High School Class of 1960 Holds Reunion The Monongahela High School class of 1960 recently held their 55th class reunion September 26, 2015 at the Mon Valley Country Club. Pictured below are the classmates who attended the reunion:

MONONGAHELA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2015 SANTA SCHEDULE • Friday, November 20 • Saturday, November 21 • Friday, November 27 • Saturday, November 28 • Friday, December 04 • Saturday, December 05 • Friday, December 11 • Saturday, December 12 • Friday, December 18 • Saturday, December 19 • Monday, December 21

6 p.m.- 10 p.m. 11a.m. - 2 p.m. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. 11a.m. - 2 p.m. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. 11a.m. - 2 p.m. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. 11a.m. - 2 p.m. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. 11a.m. - 2 p.m. 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

December 22nd, Santa leaves for the North Pole! Merry Christmas

(LEFT TO RIGHT) 1ST ROW SEATED: Kathy Krempasky Zukowski, Renee Herman Batten. Judi Altomari Lomago, Carol Phillips Kearns, Judith Guzi Carter, Carol Jean Milligan Hoffman, Martha Frank Chilani, Shirley Sampler Ribich, Barbara Baird Clegg, Richard Kon (standing). 2ND ROW: Andrew Bartko, Margene Louttit Thomas, Joy Pieczarka Rocco, Dorothy Blaskovich Ghilani, Margaret Ann Connell Morsi, Jane Leach Nuzzaci, Helen Bozik Matrozza, Janice Tempest Babiak, Nancy Spate Lusk, Ruth Ann Hartman Fine, Lawrence Fine, Merrily Tomko Sobotka, Carl LaFronte, George Simmons. 3RD ROW: Lee Tosi, Steve Fusco, Ralph Affinito, James Kustron, Edward Nuzzaci, Norman Koch, Marion Oates Segursky, Sherrie Kirby Miller, Roberta Farquhar DePompei, Faye Frye, Carol Chada Knouse, Morgan France. 4TH ROW: James Anders, Eugene Marraccini, Loma Holzaphfel Young, Robert Johnson, Margaret Butti Babirad, William Johnson, Bruce Dolinar, James Spate, Shelby Cash, Daniel Ghilani. BACK ROW: James Zukowski, Gary Marraccini, Roy Armstrong, Larry Keenan, Kenneth Lusk, Dennis Pellegrini, Robert Schallenberger, Carol Sue Hull Coulter, Donald Hamilton, Robert Baron, William Stech.

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Pajama Party Planned in N. Belle Vernon to Benefit Domestic Violence Services of SWPA Step back in time and enjoy Christmas as it was when you were a kid – come to a Christmas Open House and Pajama Party to benefit Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania. This event will take place on Friday, Dec. 11, 2015 from 4-8 p.m. at The Good Ol' Days Nostalgic Guesthouse, 914 Broad Avenue in North Belle Vernon (right off Interstate 70, exit 42). Refreshments will be served and admission is a new pair of pajamas for women and children staying in the shelters. More than a million women and children are victims of domestic abuse here in the U.S. and almost all who seek refuge arrive with just the clothes on their backs. So, join in the Christmas spirit of giving along with an old-fashioned family tradition of a new pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve. Owner Melanie Patterson adds, "Your donations will make this Christmas Eve a little brighter for local women and children in our area." All are welcome - please plan to attend.

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CAHS, Inc. Recognizes Friends of the Coyle for Dedication to Coyle Theatre Restoration Project The Charleroi Area Historical Society, Inc. (CAHS, Inc.) wants to recognize and thank the volunteers known as the Friends of the Coyle for all the work and fundraising that they did in making the improvements at the Coyle Theatre Project site, in their efforts to bring a Cultural Arts/Entertainment Center to the Mid-Mon Valley. After initial work last year and months this summer to recently, the two corner buildings are displaying the art form known as art deco with some other unique art work showcasing Laurel and Hardy and Groucho Marx and his brothers, Chico and Harpo. The art work also shows their connection to the Coyle Theatre itself. Anyone wishing to help keep the work going at the project site can do so by making contact through CAHS, Inc.

Cover Story: VFW Post 914 West Mifflin Veterans Recount Service on Guam 70 Years Ago (Continued from page 1.)

Both veterans were stationed on the small, western Pacific Ocean island of Guam in August 1945. Yatsko served there as a Navy Seabee with the 144th Naval Construction Battalion, while Birdy was attached to the Marine Third Amphibious Corps. Although the two Post 914 members arrived on Guam after most of the heavy fighting had ended, they weren’t exactly basking away on an island paradise. While the battle to take control of the key outpost had effectively ended by August, 1944, a number of Japanese soldiers refused to surrender and continued fighting. “We were charged with going on patrol and coaxing out as many Japanese who were hiding on Guam as possible,” said Birdy. “Most were very cooperative. We’d put them on transports and help them back to Japan.” Following his service on Guam, Birdy was transferred to the First

Division, Sixth Marines, based in Tianjin, China. After leaving the Marines, he attended and graduated Slippery Rock University. As a Seabee, Yatsko worked on Guam as a metal smith and a welder, helping repair buildings and vehicles. He said he has found memories of his year-long tour there. West Mifflin Veterans of United States Marine and “What I remember Foreign Wars Post 914 West Mifflin Veterans of Intrepid Life Member and forForeign Wars Post 914 most are the guys mer Seabee Andy Yatsko on Intrepid Life Member Earl that I worked with,” the island of Guam in 1945. Birdy in 1945. said Yatsko. ‘We had a very good outfit.” Yatsko served in both the active Navy and the reserves until Company as a warehouse foreman for he was honorably discharged in 1954. nearly 50 years before retiring in 1993. Both men are long-time residents of He worked for the National Biscuit

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the Mon Valley and each raised their families here. Birdy and his wife, Shirley, recently celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary in July. Yatsko has been married to his spouse, Anna Mae, since 1947. Yatsko and Birdy each serve as officers in VFW Post 914. The former Seabee functions as both the Distressed Comrades Committee Chairman and Advocate General, while Birdy is a Post Trustee. Despite their ages, each takes his duties with the VFW seriously and both are rarely absent from meetings. The two West Mifflin veterans who served on Guam in 1945 used to be a trio. Former Post member James W. Leerberg was stationed on the island at the same time as a captain in the Army Corps of Engineers. He died at the age of 95 this past August. For more information about VFW Post 914 and its activities, contact Commander Jake Bradich at: 412-4649838.

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GREATER MONESSEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY SEEKING LOCAL MEMORABILIA The Greater Monessen Historical Society is searching for local memorabilia for the Monessen Heritage Museum at 505 Donner Avenue. Don't throw away local history! The list of needed items includes: • Church anniversary booklets and directories • Local city and county histories • High school yearbooks • Oral interviews • Family portraits • Local photographs • Postcards • Local maps • Family genealogies, both published and non-published • City directories • Census records • Cemetery compilations • Church memorabilia • Organization records and minute books • Business ledgers • Local advertisements • Ethnic group memorabilia • Local industry items • Vintage clothing • Local sport team uniforms • Class reunion memorabilia If unsure about an item, please contact the Historical Society before throwing something away at 724-6848460. The current exhibit at the Museum showcases the riverboats that once

traveled on the three rivers in Southwestern Pennsylvania. See photos and memorabilia that was saved when the old steamboats were dismantled. The Museum is open Wednesday - Saturday from 10 a. m. – 3 p. m. During the holiday season, do your gift shopping at the Museum Shoppe. There is a wide variety of nationality cookbooks and local history materials available. Three new cookbooks have just been added to the store. Postcards can be obtained to send in Christmas cards. Monessen-themed throws make excellent gifts. Please consider donating any antique Christmas items for use in the front display windows during the Christmas season. The annual fund campaign and membership renewal is underway. 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 includes four issues of the “Valley Historian” newsletter. Fund drive donations are used to operate the museum and plan future projects. The annual Holiday Open House will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2015 from 12-3 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Look for the Greater Monessen Historical Society on Facebook and “LIKE” us!

Jewelry Sale Planned in South Park to Benefit Troops and Veterans Operation Troop Appreciation is having its 6th Gently Used Costume Jewelry Sale on Friday, December 11 (1 – 7 p.m.) and Saturday, December 12 (11 a.m. - 6 p.m.). The sale will be at the South Park Community Center behind the South Park Library, 2675 Brownsville Road, South Park. Fabulous selections begin at $1 each…nothing is more than $5. Although most of the jewelry is used, some of it is new. There are gorgeous vintage pins, lots of necklaces, pierced, clip and screwback earrings, rings, cufflinks, and tie tacks and much more. This is a great opportunity to find a treasure, compliment an outfit and help our troops and returning veterans. To learn more about Operation Troop Appreciation, please visit www.operationtroopappreciation.org. Questions? Contact Kathie Gasior, Community Project Coordinator, at kgasior2@gmail.com.

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Valley Art Club Exhibition Showcases Local Talent The Valley Art Club Exhibition was hosted by the Women’s Club of West Newton on Saturday, November 14. Artwork was available for purchase. There were also demonstrations given by Joyce Gazdick and Mary Ann KopachLaber.

Artwork available for sale.

Demonstrations were given by Joyce Gazdick and Mary Ann Kopach-Laber.

Appalachian Crafts Sale at Wrights United Methodist Church Wrights United Methodist Church of Venetia is hosting Red Bird Mission Crafts to give you an opportunity to enjoy quality Appalachian crafts. The sale will take place on Friday, December 4 from 6-8 p.m., Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m. -2 p.m., and Sunday, December 6 from 11 a.m. 2 p.m., The Red Bird Mission, located in the southeastern Kentucky mountains, is an agency of Red Bird Missionary Conference, related to the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. Red Bird Mission has a school, medical center, community outreach, community housing improvement, and economic development. This source of income is important in an area of 50% unemployment. There will be many crafts made within an 80-mile radius of the mission, including baskets, some made of honeysuckle vines or creek willow that are family traditions developed in an age when self-sufficiency was necessary in the isolated mountains. Another native art represented is the woven rug, using scrap materials and even upholstery material. Doll collectors will have fun seeing a variety of handmade dolls. They have an assortment of the cornshuck items, including a variety of authentic flowers that will delight flower lovers. Other items include unscented crafted beeswax candles, jewelry, jams, and jellies. There are note cards, history books of the area, books with special recipes, hand painted gourds, woven place mats, and hand made brooms for use or decoration. The wooden crafts consist of toys, games, utensils, cutting boards, cooling racks, and furniture. Adorable wood and cloth Christmas ornaments and an assortment of nativity sets add to the colorful display. You can purchase items to give as gifts or to use for yourself. No matter what you do you will be glad that you are a part of our mission. For more information, call 724-348-4059 or 814-758-1385 or visit Wrightsumc.com.

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“Sock it to a Vet Day” a Rousing Success in North Belle Vernon By Jill Brown The Good ‘Ol Days House, 914 Broad Ave., Belle Vernon, really “knocked the socks off” of their campaign to collect new socks for veterans to be donated to the Veterans Hospital in Oakland. The collection took place on Veterans Day from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and was organized by Melanie Stringhill Patterson and her mom. Visitors were treated to free coffee and cake, fried bologna sandwiches for lunch and Melanie Stringhill Patterson, founder of “Sock it to a Vet Day,” poses beside her Stringhill’s pizza at night. By noon, “sock-holder stand.” they had already received about 200 pairs of socks. Interestingly enough, the grand total of pairs of socks collected on Veterans Day, 11/11, was 1,111. The house, owned by Patterson, is a former home of 5 WWII vets: Patterson’s dad and her four uncles. This was her grandparents’ house for over 60 years, and she bought it from a cousin. Someone from the family has always lived there, “a fun, warm, comfy place to hang,” she says. Patterson says she came up with the idea recently after reading an article about the need for socks by vets at shelJohn Habel, former US Army Reserves, visters and hospitals. She says, “You take ited with a sock donation and had lunch for granted that a pair of socks is somewith his daughter, Kathy Willard. thing people have a whole bunch of.” Special thanks go to the following North Belle Vernon business owners, who also have taken pride in donating socks: Vintage & Vines, Darla Suz Boutique, Bee Graphix, Broad Avenue Treasures, and Antiques on Broad. Another event is to be held geared toward veterans in February 2016, whereas people will visit the house and write letters to vets on Valentine’s Day. This will be called “Sock Hop.” Patterson’s dad, Sam Stringhill, who served in the U.S. Army, passed away 18 years ago. He would have been proud of his daughter. Patterson said, regarding the success of the event, “I am so proud and touched, and it is wonderful to see the kindness and generosity of the people in our Valley.” For more information about The Good ‘Ol Days House, go to www.NostalgicGuesthouse.com or call 724-331-3654.

Bunola VFD to Host Children’s Christmas Party The Bunola Volunteer Fire Department will be holding a “Children’s Christmas Party” on Sunday, December 13, from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Guests will enjoy food, games, crafts, a Chinese auction, and Santa! TV available to watch Steeler game! Tickets are just $5 in advance, or $8 at the door. Call 412-841-7310, or 724-797-1891

Spaghetti Benefit Dinner Planned to Help Pastorik Family In July 2014, Matthew Pastorik, 33, of South Park, was diagnosed with a glioblastoma, a life-threatening brain tumor. Husband of Janell and father of two kids, ages 4 and 6, he began chemo and radiation shortly after diagnosis. Matt completed treatment in September 2015 and on October 2, Matt had a routine CT scan with devastating results. A new tumor had formed in the center of his brain against the spinal ventricle during the short period of time since his treatment had ended. His doctors at UPMC have no further treatments to offer. He was referred to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Matt and Janell flew to Boston. He was able to enroll in a clinical trial conducted by Dana-Farber, a Phase 2 study for recurrent glioblastomas. He is currently flying to Boston every Monday for this treatment. Please join us for a spaghetti dinner to benefit this family! ALL proceeds go to directly to the Pastorik family to help with travel costs, medical bills, and living expenses. The dinner is Sunday, December 6 from 12 – 6 p.m. Dine in or take out. Elizabeth VFC Bingo Hall, 101 S. 1st Ave., Elizabeth. Cost: Adults - $10, kids 5 to 12 - $5, and kids under 4 – free. The dinner includes spaghetti, salad, roll, and a non-alcoholic beverage. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by contacting Melissa - 412352-8947, Jamie - 412-654-4058, or Andrea - 412-651-3560 or at the Colonial Beer Distributor, 4986 Library Rd., Bethel Park.

Monessen Public Library Friends Group Holds Successful 24th Annual Luncheon The Monessen Public Library Friends Group, in association with the A. H. E. P. A., St. Spyridon’s Philoptochos Society, and St. Spyridon Auxiliary Catering, sponsored the 24th annual Monessen Public Library Luncheon on October 13, 2015 at the Hellenic Center. The theme was “Sparkle & Shine: Celebrate the Arts.” The luncheon was a fundraiser for Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center. Over 250 people attended. There were 32 tables with table themes ranging from Broadway, Hollywood, Dancing, Music, and Art of Eastern Europe, to Mimes, Ballet, Hairstyling, and Andy Warhol. The menu consisted of salad, dinner rolls, turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, candied carrots and Boston cream pie. Friends’ President Toni Tetteris gave the welcome and introductions, followed by Rev. Fred Pfeil of St. Michael’s Antiochian Orthodox Church with the invocation. Cleon Kordistos, President of A. H. P. E. A., and Dave Zilka, Library Director, delivered remarks. Melanie Taylor, Pittsburgh radio and television personality, was the guest speaker. John Paterra performed with piano accompaniment by Dave Crisci. A benediction by Rev. Michael J. Crookston of the Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church concluded the afternoon. Officers of the Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center Friends group are: Toni Tetteris, president, Kathleen Kelemen, vice president, Helen Manning, secretary, and Deborah Gregor, treasurer.

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Brownsville Northside Beautification Committee Honors Founder with Memorial Bench Brownsville Northside resident Kay Gammon was honored over the weekend by family, friends and neighbors. A memorial bench, installed in the 500 block of North Market St., Brownsville, has been dedicated to the longtime resident, who founded the Northside Beautification Committee in 2007. The honoree effectively planted the seeds for a self-sustaining group, beginning with a successful holiday house tour that raised funds to purchase and maintain flower planters along Market, parts of Brashear and Front streets in the Brownsville Northside Historic District. With proceeds from ongoing holiday house tours and more recently, ghost walks, the committee maintains 32 flower planters on the Northside and has purchased holiday and historic district pole banners and 50 American flags for both sides of North Market Street. Gammon, a Princeton, WV native, and her late husband moved to Front Street in 1987, buying a converted residential property that originally housed one of the first banks west of the Alleghenies. At the time, they had two sons in college and a 12-year-old son. During the committee's formative years, the Gammons frequently held parties in their grand home. The highlight of the Christmas season in the neighborhood would be their holiday party, which always included a piano player. Over the weekend, 25 of the honoree's family, friends and neighbors gathered to recognize her community spirit, efforts and foresight in establishing a group that's had a lasting impact on the neighborhood. She was surrounded by her family - son Hurley, daughter-in-law Gretchen and three granddaughters. A reception was held in the social hall of Brownsville Fire Co. 1, 520 Market St., following a brief afternoon ceremony to install an engraved bronze plaque.

SAVE THE DATE Charleroi Area Interact Club Plans ‘Tailgate for Tots’ Fundraiser The Charleroi Area High School/Middle School Interact Club is sponsoring ‘Tailgate for Tots’ on Sunday, December 6, 2015. Activities will take place in the Alumni Room (located at the top of the football stadium) from 1 to 5 p.m. All toys and gifts that are collected will be distributed to students from the Charleroi Area School District. The fee of $7 includes a plate of tailgate-themed food and admission to the activities. For information concerning donations please call Jessica Fritch at 724-483-3509, Ext. 3256 or Colleen Arnowitz at 724-258-5631.

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Salute to Charleroi Veterans Memorial Coupled with Veterans Day Parade Makes War Heroes Feel Appreciated

Lt. Colonel Peter Kalamaras, Jr. returns from service and speaks at the Charleroi Memorial Service. Commander Bob Branch stands behind him.

Don Rattay, veteran, driving, and former Commander Ed Palumbo, ride through the parade, happy to participate.

By Jill Brown It was a solemn and reflective time at the memorial service on Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. at the Charleroi Veterans Memorial. Commander Bob Branch, Charleroi American Legion Post 22, welcomed the small gathering of people. Chaplain Frank Paterra, opening with the Invocation, said, “Your Son died for our soul, and our soldiers died for our Julian Rambharose, Jr., age 8, seems freedom.” proud to have two veterans for parents. Both were in the Marine Guard. Lt. U.S. Army Colonel Peter Kalamaras, Jr., a hometown hero recently retired, was to serve later as Grand Marshall at the 2 p.m. downtown parade. His remarks at the memorial service were in remembrance of those who served. He then asked others to join in a moment of silence. Kalamaras said, “It was an honor to be asked, and this is my first official duty here. It feels blessed to be back in Charleroi. I grew up in Charleroi a couple of blocks from the Memorial. I’m happy to be here. I’ll be happy to be Qualynn Salmon, from Charleroi High in the parade.” School, sang two songs majestically at Even the chilly weather could not the Veterans Memorial Service. dampen the spirits of the many veterans who turned out for the Charleroi Veterans Parade. The parade was made up of more than 70 participants, local high school marching bands, several veterans groups, a horse-drawn caisson, and fireworks at night. This was all in honor of those whom we thank for serving our country. We also honor and revere those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Go to our website gallery at www.messengerpaper.com for more photos.

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Great Progress in the Mon Valley! Mon River Valley Coalition, Monongahela River Town Program Make Strides Towards Five-Year Goals access to the river. Action agendas were outlined, resources were sought, and projects implemented. The momentum from these first years engaged the interest of many regional leaders and partners. Seeing the strength in working towards a common goal, the Coalition was formed, with McCollom and Holdorf as the leads and spokeswomen for the group, and a five-year plan Capturing the Opportunities in the Mon River Valley - was drafted and adopted. "The River Town Program and the Coalition have the same goal - to work collaboratively," stated McCollom. "We never go into a community and tell them what they need to do, how and when. Being responsive to the needs of a community - its representatives and leaders - they are the ones who guide and dictate the goals and projects that the program then helps them carry forward."

The Coalition meets quarterly on the CAL U campus and, throughout the past two years, has received consistent support from all three Washington County Commissioners. It is largely due to their support and attendance at Coalition meetings that significant funding has been obtained. "The Foundations that support the River Town Program and the Coalition want to see that the local folks have 'skin in the game,'" commented McCollom.” Capitalizing on this momentum, the Coalition leadership will gather in early November to chart a course for the next five years. "We will follow the same outline we used when the coalition first formed," stated Donna Holdorf. "Each community in the coalition will have the opportunity to list its goals and priorities." Holdorf continued, citing that to date, over $2,000,000 has been secured to support and achieve the original fiveyear action plan activities. In addition

HOLIDAY STORE HOURS: Monday & Wednesday 10-8

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10-5

Thirteen communities from the Mon River Valley, along with three tourist promotion agencies, three planning organizations, two universities and a number of state, county and local officials comprise the Mon River Valley Coalition. Led by Cathy McCollom, the River Town Program Director, and Donna Holdorf, Executive Director of the National Road Heritage Corridor, the Mon River Valley Coalition has just completed its second full year of work on a five-year plan adopted in September 2013 and has successfully addressed all of the plan's action items. In 2011, the River Town Program began along the Monongahela River, offering three years of professional staff capacity to lead Mon River communities in the revitalization effort, supported by Pittsburgh based foundations. Led by McCollom, community leaders assessed existing conditions and articulated opportunities to gain economic growth through the communities'

to the launches being constructed and the riverfront plan, currently underway is work with the PA Signing Trust to install wayfinding signs identifying key visitor river assets in the Mon Valley. Also, the first Mon River Valley Entrepreneurial Business Plan Contest is underway. The project will award three $10,000 grants to the successful business plans to help them open a business in one of the current Mon River towns. McCollom and Holdorf are also currently talking to outfitters regarding the opening of kayak/canoe rentals. "The Mon River Town Program and the Mon River Valley Coalition are a great example of what can happen when a region comes together for a common goal," said Holdorf. For more information, contact Donna Holdorf at 724-437-9877 or donnah@nationalroadpa.org and Cathy McCollom at 814-521-3520 or csm@mccollomds.com.

Sunday 12-4

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Stout Family Gifts Bentworth Community Center Project

Pictured are Senator J. Barry Stout and (l-r) Bethany Stout, Lisa Stout-Bashioum, John Stout, Lenore Thompson Stout, Shannon Hemmingson, Sharee Stout, and Lori Jansante.

The family of Senator J. Barry Stout and Lenore Thompson Stout has made a Presidential Level gift to the Bentworth Community Center Building Project. The President Level includes gifts of $50,000 or more. The gift was made in honor of Nelle Thompson Weir, a beloved aunt of the Stouts and the first librarian at the Bentleyville Public Library. Nelle Weir served as head librarian at the library for over 35 years. The Bentworth Community Center is the name of the building that houses the Bentleyville Public Library, the Bentworth Senior Center, and the Bentleyville Area Historical Society. The building is owned by the library and serves residents of Bentleyville, Cokeburg, and Ellsworth boroughs and North Bethlehem and Somerset townships. The Bentworth Community Center Building Project is a comprehensive plan to renovate and enlarge the community center building to better meet the needs of the library, senior center, and historical society and to better meet the needs of the community. Additional information about the building project and about tax-deductible giftgiving opportunities can be obtained at the Bentleyville Public Library or at www.bentworthcommunitycenter.com.

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

Avoid the Spring Market and Buy This Winter! As the October employment report showed, the demand for housing is only going to grow. It makes sense that when people have jobs they can break off and form new households, buy a bigger or better home, leave roommates behind, or even move out of mom and dad’s basement! Most of the newly formed households created over the past two years were renting households, but based on U.S. census data for the third quarter of this year, it appears that homeownership has started to recover. This makes a lot of sense now that it is more often than not cheaper to own than to rent. And it’s not getting better for tenants. Rents are rising year over year

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at twice the pace of listing prices. Meanwhile, mortgage rates remain at near record lows but appear poised to increase over the next year. And home prices locally are rising, too! So if you are financially able to purchase and you intend to live in a home long enough to cover transaction costs, you will be better off financially if you buy as soon as you can. After all, if you are tired of your current living arrangement, you probably won’t feel better about it in the next six months. The top factors driving home shoppers this past summer were pent-up demand and recognition of favorable mortgage rates and home prices. These factors are predicted to remain well into the next year. Demand for housing is seasonal. Many people are mistakenly conditioned to believe that we should buy homes in the spring, summer and early fall. So come each October, plans to purchase (or even list a home for sale) shift to the spring. While the school calendar and weather do influence the ideal time to move, many buyers would benefit from buying in winter rather than waiting until next spring. In October, the percentage of would-be buyers on realtor.com saying that they intend to buy in seven to 12 months was the highest it has been all year and represented the largest time frame for purchase. Likewise, October produced the lowest percentage of would-be buyers, saying they intend to buy in the next three

months. In other words, people’s stated plans point to a very strong spring for home sales. Great, right? But here’s the problem: Inventory isn’t likely to be higher in March and April than it is right now because of that. And while one would expect inventory to grow in spring and into summer, it won’t grow as fast as the seasonal demand. If you are ready, consider getting in the market now instead of waiting for spring. You will have much less competition now than later while taking full advantage of today’s record breaking low interest rates! So if you are considering buying a home next spring, it’s worth exploring the inventory now and reaching out to one of your CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty professionals. A new home could be the best gift you give yourself and your family this holiday season.

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

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Adventurous Pleasant Hills Resident Hikes the Appalachian Trail By Ken Askew

to his backpack, it increased from 35 to 55 Two pairs of hiking boots pounds. . . . 119 nights in a sleeping Mike’s meals typically bag . . . 1,200 miles of trail . consisted of oatmeal, . . that’s what it took to trek hot chocolate, power most of the Appalachian bars, string cheese, pepTrail. Mike Sauter, a 59peroni, and trail mix for year-old Pleasant Hills resbreakfast and snacks. ident, accomplished that Lunch or dinner was feat (no pun intended) from tuna fish, chicken, or March through July in beef wrapped in a burriMike Sauter at the 2015. Completed in 1937, to. Despite consuming halfway-point of the the Appalachian Trail is a 4,500 to 6,500 calories Appalachian Trail. wonderland of unspoiled per day, he lost 30 Tradition has it that hikers scenic beauty, all the way pounds. He utilized a should eat a half-gallon of from Georgia to Maine. portable water filter to ice cream in less than one The trail actually stretches obtain drinking water hour to celebrate this achievement. 2,160 miles, but Mike only from streams. completed 55% of it--the He was viewed as a section from Georgia to Pennsylvania. passing visitor by the animal residents of That’s when he exhausted his funds, and the pristine woods. Mike observed a his knee became bothersome. Upon tak- multitude of wildlife, including rare ing a bus back to the ‘Burgh, a doctor sightings of wild boar, bears, a bobcat, ordered an MRI and diagnosed his prob- and a few poisonous snakes. There were lem as an inflamed left knee meniscus stunning views of waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and cartilage. Undeterred, he plans to and many square miles of uninhabited return and complete the trail within the forest. next few years. Mike’s worst days were when it rained Nights were spent in a variety of hard and made the muddy trail slippery, accommodations—his tent, 3-sided but that was easily offset by his favorite wooden shelters, or hostels. The hostels memories of new-found friends enjoying in small towns were a respite to sleep in the awesome sunsets and sitting around a bed, take a shower, wash laundry, and the nightly campfire swapping tales of just rest from the grueling and often the day’s activities. Other than his knee mountainous, steep trail. Stopping for a problem, his only injuries were insect few days each at 8-10 hostels curtailed bites, and blisters on his feet. his progress, resulting in an average disNevertheless, at the end of his journey, tance of 15-18 miles per day. Mike was happy to return home to his Over 100 of his meals were prepared at wife Deb, and his grown children, Katie home in dehydrated packages, which his and Matthew. wife mailed to him every 4 to 7 days. For more information, go to When the weight of the meals was added www.appalachiantrail.org.

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2015 Charleroi Halloween Parade a Frightfully Good Time Despite Being Rescheduled

Gabrielle, 5 years old, Laurence, age 6, and Juliana, 1 12 years old, in the back row, all waited eagerly for the parade to begin, with mom Joyce Mart.

The Charthene Club sold food or cookies at the parade: (L-R) Diane Nonack, club president; Dr. Patti Mason, recording secretary; and Mary-Ann Forlini, member. MISSING FROM THE PHOTO: KATHLEEN UMBEL, VICE PRESIDENT.

By Jill Brown People certainly got the news that the Charleroi Halloween Parade was rescheduled due to inclement weather from Wednesday to Thursday, Oct. 29 at 7 p.m., because the downtown sidewalks were lined with numerous spectators that evening. With so many people, there was one incident that the police worked quickly to handle. The parade was sponsored by the Charleroi Borough and the Fire Department. Food was available by the Charthene Club and featured hot dogs, chili, hot chocolate, etc. Cookies and cupcakes were sold as well. A Halloween fundraiser, food sale proceeds benefit CAHS students and the Charleroi community. A Thanksgiving basket raffle was also held. The parade began with a police car riding past and throwing candy for children, followed by a fire truck, then an

These girls looked adorable in their costumes at the parade. They are (l-r): Gia Pletcher, Nariah Pletcher, Jolieana Pletcher, and Bailey Gillen.

ambulance, both with goodies. There were Girl Scouts, majorettes, and other student participants. Bright lights, unique costumes and some music had people mesmerized right up to the end of the parade. All in all, the event was a frightfully good time.

Monongahela Farmers’ Market Donates to Community Causes During Off-Season The Monongahela Farmers’ Market Committee does not stop working just because the season is over. In October, we donated to the" Coats for Kids" project, and in November, to the Greater Washington County Food Bank, both of which help our communities. We thank all of you who have shopped at our Farmers’ Market, our farmers, vendors and sponsors. Without you, we wouldn't be able to give back to our community. We wish you all the merriest of Christmases and a very Happy New Year. Our wish is for all of you to help your neighbors and be safe.

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Extravaganza & Bazaar at Charleroi’s Crest Ave. Apartments Brings Residents Together for Holiday Fun By Jill Brown The Extravaganza & Bazaar at Crest Avenue Apartments in Charleroi, which took place on Saturday, November 14th at 4 p.m., had something for everyone, and the residents who did not attend really missed out. Although the crowd was small, the entertainment was a lot of fun. The entrance fee was only $2, and proceeds benefit the residents’ Christmas party fund. Mary Patrick, who planned the event, Mr. Chico and Cindy Newman, thanked everyone enthusiastically for a vendor, dance together attending. Trudy Taylor, appointed by during Chico’s performance. Patrick, was “Mistress of Ceremony.” A gifted and talented event and party planner, Patrick has been doing this for many years and is young at heart at age 80. First to entertain was First Baptist Church Dance Troup from Donora, a youth ministry. They performed a few lovely routines, swaying and moving all in harmony to upbeat praise music. Audience remarks were overhead: “That was awesome. That was beautiful.” Next was Mr. Chico from Pittsburgh, with dancing and lip sync. He really livened up the crowd, encouraging everyone to get up and dance, which they eventually did. Other featured festivities included: a pro wrestler, singers, show and tell by vendors, raffles, and a Chinese auction.

Trudy Taylor, secondary hostess of the evening, sings a praise song at the bazaar.

Mary Patrick greets guests with a smile at her bazaar at Crest Ave. apartments.

A buffet-style meal was served, as were share-a-dish casseroles. Patrick made the ham and chicken, and others prepared dishes, too, making for a delicious dinner. Terri Greenlee also sang praise music. She said, “We should be thankful for our blessings everyday.” After singing a beautiful worship song, she said, “I hope you’re clapping for that empty grave. If you’re doing banquets—I don’t charge, but do take donations.” To contact Greenlee or view her party-lite candles, visit her online at www.partlylite.biz/terrigreenlee. Patrick said of her blessings, “I’m happy for all my friends like you all, and that I could do something like this. But it’s not me that does this.” She then lifted up her arms heavenward.

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Martins Christmas Tree Farm Provides Old-Fashioned Christmas Experience We all have heard of the old-fashioned Christmas experience of going to the woods and cutting the family Christmas tree. Martins would like to invite you and your family (and pets) to visit our 82-acre Christmas tree farm to experience that family tradition. The farm has thousands of trees, and the varieties are as follows: Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, Concolor (white fir), Canaan Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, Grand Fir, and a limited amount of white pine. You will find all sizes growing, and the Spruce trees are available with root balls for planting. In addition to trees, there are fresh wreaths and bundles of greens and holly available. You may cut your tree, or we will cut it for you. Be ready for quite a bit of walking, but, if you have trouble walking, there is a red wagon that makes its rounds for those wanting a tour or a ride. A large display of cut trees is available for viewing the different types, and these are available for purchase. Hot dogs and hot cocoa await you after your tree is at the sales area. As a remembrance of your tree farm experience, we will take your group’s picture. Your pictures will be emailed to you next November to remind you of the coming season free of charge if you provide your email address. Our address is 699 Porter McNutt Ln., Belle Vernon. The farm is open on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) starting after Thanksgiving. The hours are from 10 a.m. to dusk. Call 412-496-7827 with questions and visit us online at www.martinschristmastreefarm.com.

Rostraver Township Historical Society Plans Darr Mine Exhibition Rostraver Township Historical Society is planning an exhibition of the 1907 Darr Mine Explosion in Van Meter, PA to be held on the week of December 14th - 19th from 2 to 6 p.m. at the old Fells Methodist Church. The explosion happened at 11 a.m. the morning of December 19, 1907. The display consists of a series of paintings by local artist Steve Gluz and century-old antique mining tools, safety equipment and personal possessions used by the miners from the collection of Henry Indolf through the courtesy of his daughter, Arni Arrigo. The mine disaster was the largest mine explosion in Pennsylvania history. There were over 239 men and boys killed that day. There is much controversy over why the coal company, owned by the Pittsburgh Coal Company, let the miners back into the mine, because the new exhaust fan needed one more shift to complete the connection in to the mine. RTHS has a list of names of the men and boys killed and a replica of the postage stamp in memory of the miners.

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Charleroi Rotary Club Continues Activities Throughout the Fall The members of the Charleroi Rotary Club have continued to experience a high degree of involvement in Rotary International functions, district level activities, and club business since the end of September. On September 30, 2015 Steve and Colleen Arnowitz attended a luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club of Pittsburgh. The guests were Rotary International President Ravi Ravindran and his wife. President Ravi spoke about his experiences at all levels with Rotary and the importance of contributing to the Rotary Foundation. October brought the first of the Charleroi Rotary Club’s “Student of the Month” presentations. Brittany Claybaugh was recognized for October. She is a senior at Charleroi High School, a member of the Interact club (among other groups), and has participated in many activities during high school. Brittany plans to further her education upon graduation. A professional networking mixer for clubs in the Mon Valley area was held on Thursday, October 8th at Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Education and Conference center. The featured film was “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and the refreshments included drinks, movie snacks, and crackers and cheese.

The Rotary Foundation celebration was held on Saturday, October 24th at the Park Inn in Uniontown. Proceeds from this event benefit projects carried out through Rotary International. This year’s theme was “Celebrity Chefs.” Rotarian member chefs and professional chefs provided many culinary treats for those in attendance. On October 28th, Ms. Diann Donaldson, president and owner of Reliant Business Solutions, presented a program on the new security measures that are being employed in debit and credit cards. She explained that transferring from non-chip cards to cards with imbedded chips is being completed gradually due to the time and expense involved in switching out the software used to read the cards. At the conclusion of her presentation, President Mike Rupert announced that Diann has been invited to become a member of the Charleroi Rotary Club. As a reminder, the Charleroi Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at the Back Porch restaurant in Lower Speers. Meetings begin at 12:05 and are held in the Side Door Lounge. For membership or program information, please contact Mike Rupert at 412422-4202 or John Helfenstein at 724494-3195.

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Costa, Bartolotta Highway Worker Safety Legislation Heading to Governor for Signature Legislation geared toward preventing distracted and aggressive driving in work zones is heading to Gov. Tom Wolf for signature after unanimous concurrence by the Senate this week, according to the bill’s sponsors, Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-43) and Senator Camera Bartolotta (R-46). “I am honored and humbled at the overwhelming support by my House and Senate colleagues for this critically important measure. We have the opportunity to save lives with this legislation and to show our support for those working to keep our highways safe and we’ve done just that,” Costa said. “There isn’t a text, an email or a phone call that is more important than our workers returning home safe to their families.” Senate Bill 887, which originally passed the Senate in June, toughens penalties for drivers who endanger or kill a highway worker or first responder in a construction zone. The bill also broadens the scope of “highway workers” to include emergency personnel, local government and municipal workers, members of the Pennsylvania State Police and law enforcement community, and contractors or utility company workers. “The frequency of incidents in work zones is troubling, and highway workers and their families live in constant fear that the irresponsible actions of a distracted or aggressive driver will ulti-

mately lead to a tragedy. By strengthening the penalties for reckless drivers, we can help limit the dangers faced by the men and women who help maintain our vital infrastructure,” Bartolotta said. “I am pleased my colleagues recognized the significance of this bipartisan legislation and that we owe it to workers and their families to do everything in our power to limit the dangers they face.” Under the bill, violators could face fines and penalties exceeding $1,000 for irresponsible driving in work zones. More serious offenses involving injuries to highway workers or emergency responders could result in a fine of up to $5,000 and a six-month suspension of the violator’s driver’s license. Drivers causing the death of a worker would pay a fine of up to $10,000 and surrender their license for one year. Amendments made in the state House clarified that the increased fines and license suspension called for in the bill begin upon conviction, adjudication of delinquency or admission into accelerated rehabilitative disposition program. The House also changed the effective date from 60 days to six months. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reports that approximately 100 workers are killed and another 20,000 workers are injured every year in highway and street construction accidents.

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2nd Annual South Park Light-Up Night Planned for December 4th The Friends of South Park will be holding their 2nd Annual Light-Up Night for the community on December 4, 2016 at the Gazebo on Maple Springs Drive at 6:00 p.m. Santa will arrive at 6:30. The Community House across the street from the gazebo will be made available for refreshments and, of course, the arrival of Santa! Music will be provided by the South Park Middle School under the direction of Kendra Orcutt. Thanks to Mrs. Christine Liekar, Assistant Principal at the middle school for her assistance. Our guest reverend will be Lota Jones from the Grace Lutheran Church to shine the light on the Christmas spirit. County Council officials, state representatives, Boy Scout Troop #510, and the South Park and Bethel Park Girl Scouts will be there to present the colors, assist Santa and join in the festivities. This is a free family event! Please join us for 45 minutes of fun!

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‘Jingle Paws Bingo’ Planned by Washington Area Humane Society Tickets are on sale now for Jingle Paws Bingo, to be held Tuesday, December 8th from 6 – 10 p.m. at Southpointe Country Club. Tickets are just $30 and include appetizers and a cash bar, plus raffles, and local vendors will be on hand with their products - get some holiday shopping done for the whole family! Tickets are going fast, so be sure to sign up early for this fun evening at http://jinglepawsbingo.eventbrite.com/. All proceeds benefit the Washington Area Humane Society! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for this event, or would like to donate an item for the raffle, please contact Lynette at 724-222-7387 x110. For more information on Washington Area Humane Society, visit http://washingtonpashelter.org/.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Carnegie Science Center Plans Holiday Programs Carnegie Science Center is offering an array of holiday programs this winter. Visit www.CarnegieScienceCenter.org for pricing and more details. Check the website for up-to-date holiday hours. Miniature Railroad & Village® Unveils New Model With the beloved Miniature Railroad & Village®, a Pittsburgh holiday tradition for decades, trains are a centerpiece of the holiday programming. A replica of Crawford Grill, the renowned Hill District jazz club from 1937 to 1951, is the latest gem added to the extraordinary display. Train fans will also enjoy “Lionel for the Holidays” with a classic model railroad layout, festive decorations, and a display of iconic advertising and packaging from Lionel’s 115 years – on view through the holiday season. The Miniature Railroad & Village® is presented by Lionel Trains. The Polar Express: An IMAX Experience in Omnimax Nov. 27 – Jan. 3 This magical holiday film on Pittsburgh’s BIGGEST screen revolves around a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole. The Polar Express is sponsored locally by: Mazda. Rocky Mountain Express in Omnimax Nov. 27 – Jan. 10 The film explores deep river canyons and high mountain passes aboard a historic steam locomotive for an unforgettable adventure into the Canadian Rockies. Rocky Mountain Express is sponsored locally by: Baierl Subaru. Laser Holiday Magic in Buhl Planetarium Nov. 27 – Jan. 3 With everything from popular songs from kids’ movies to Bing Crosby and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, this laser show is a family tradition for all ages. Laser shows are sponsored by: Mazda.

DIY Laser Cut Holiday Ornaments Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays Dec. 1 – Dec. 22 Hour-long workshops offer a chance to design and create laser cut holiday ornaments in the Science Center’s new Fab Lab, Pittsburgh’s digital makerspace. Fab Lab is presented by: Chevron. Polar Pajama Party Dec. 5, Dec. 12 Kids can stay in their PJs for this morning event featuring the Omnimax movie Polar Express, a hot chocolate bar with liquid nitrogen frozen marshmallows, make-and-take activities, selfies with Santa, private time in the Miniature Railroad & Village®, story time, and a train ticket and sleigh bell to take home! On Dec. 5, a sensory-sensitive Polar Pajama Party has been developed specifically for those affected by autism spectrum or sensory processing disorders. More details online. Polar Pajama Party is sponsored by: Lionel. Adopt A Pet! Dec. 12 The humane society will be in the Science Center’s lobby with some loveable animals, sponsored by Baierl Subaru. Adoption is free, except for puppies and kittens. Adopt A Pet is sponsored by: Baierl Subaru and the Western PA Humane Society. Reindeer Games Dec. 12–13 Highmark SportsWorks® will host the first ever seasonal competition. Visitors can test their skills with Comet’s Challenge and their speed with the Daring Dasher game. 21+ Holiday Party Dec. 18 Just for the adults: 21+ Holiday Party will celebrate the season with jazz, dancing, and drinks. Event is sponsored by: Mazda, Macy’s, and Q92.

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December 2015 —————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL NEWS

Bentworth Community Center Continues Gift-Giving Campaign Commemorative Bricks Sold for Special Holiday Price During the coming holiday season, the Capital Campaign Committee of the Bentworth Community Center Building Project will continue to accept financial gifts for the center’s renovation and expansion project. The Bentworth Community Center is name of the building that houses the Bentleyville Public Library, the Bentworth Senior Center, and the Bentleyville Area Historical Society. The building project is a comprehensive plan to renovate and enlarge the building to better meet the needs of the three organizations and the needs of the community. Yvonne Baker, President of the Library’s Board of Trustees, noted, “During this season of goodwill and giving, we humbly ask area residents and businesses to consider a gift to our building project.” She added, “Your gift will be one that will last long after the holiday season.” As a fundraising activity, the Capital

Campaign Committee is accepting orders for commemorative bricks for the patio at the renovated community center. Baker noted, “Commemorative bricks provide an opportunity to honor a special person or special event in your life while supporting this worthwhile community project.” During the holiday season a 4” x 8” personalized, engraved brick, which normally sells for $125, can be purchased for $100. An 8” x 8” personalized, engraved brick, which normally sells for $225, can be purchased for $200. The holiday sale ends on January 1, 2016. Order forms for commemorative bricks and additional information about the building project can be obtained at the Bentleyville Public Library or at www.bentworthcommunitycenter.com. The Bentworth Community Center serves residents of the boroughs of Bentleyville, Cokeburg, and Ellsworth and the townships of North Bethlehem and Somerset.

Ladies Auxiliary of the Floreffe VFC Says Thank You to Sponsors of Pancake Breakfast The Ladies Auxiliary of the Floreffe VFC would like to extend a gracious THANK YOU to the following businesses and/or persons for their support and generosity toward our 2015 Halloween Pancake Breakfast! Please acknowledge and/or extend your patronage to the following in our community: • Al's Cone Zone, Jefferson Hills • Buffalo Wild Wings, West Mifflin • Cardello Electrical Supply and Lighting, Canonsburg • Carriage Inn, Elizabeth • Central New Beginnings, Elizabeth • Ciccanti Ristorante, Jefferson Hills • D Jenkins, Elrama • Direct Jewelers, Jefferson Hills • Eastern Industrial Inc., Jefferson Hills, Floreffe Area • Eat n Park, Pleasant Hills • Elliott's Backstreet BBQ, Jefferson Hills • Gayle (Friend of Member) • Giant Eagle, Elizabeth

• Giant Eagle, West Mifflin • Home Depot, West Mifflin • Interchange Lounge, Jefferson Hills • Chris King • McDonald's, Pleasant Hills • Mon River Supply, W. Elizabeth • Olive Garden, Pleasant Hills • Pizza Hut, West Mifflin • Practice Tee, Jefferson Hills • Red Lobster, Pleasant Hills • Guy Reschenthaler • Seven Eleven, W. Elizabeth • Shadlure, W. Elizabeth • Tackle Unlimited, Jefferson Hills • Weiss Meats, Pleasant Hills • Wendy's, Pleasant Hills And a special THANKS to Rita Wall (Seven Eleven) for thedonation of pumpkins for the children's free raffle and to Mary the Clown (who was costumed as Mary the Good Witch) and Sparkle for providing entertainment! Without all of you, the breakfast could not have been a success!

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Finleyville Magic Castle Brings Trick-or-Treaters Joy

The Finleyville Magic Castle, designed and constructed by Luke Serra.

Luke Serra and Mr. Reppert

When Luke Serra graduated from Ringgold High School as co-valedictorian in 2014, he certainly had built several demanding projects in Mr. Jeremy Reppert's carpentry class at the Mon Valley Career & Technical School. His three years of training with Mr. Reppert landed him a full-time position with a local contractor, but after a year on the job, Luke was ready for a more creative project that everyone could enjoy. Carefully designing, drawing, measuring and estimating, his vision was completed and mounted at the driveway entrance of his home in Finleyville, to the delight of many groups of children and their families on Halloween night. On hand to help with final painting touches was brother, Ethan Serra, Ringgold Class of 2013. Several friends in costume added to the overall fun and welcomed every trickor-treater as they stepped up onto the drawbridge to receive the memory of a lifetime at the Finleyville Magic Castle of 2015. Nice job, Luke!

The Hall Down Under Hosts an ‘Evening of Jazz: Spirit of Collaborative Community’ By Alice Harris An Evening of Jazz: Spirit of Collaborative Community took place at the Hall Down Under on Wharf Street in Dunlevy. Local band Hot Headed Mike and The Half-Baked Jazz Band provided back up for vocalists Marka of Tokyo, Japan and Yan Carlos Sanchez of Allentown, PA, originally from the Dominican Republic. Both vocalists also performed solo. Vocalists Marka and Yan Carlos Jan Carlos is a unique singer who uses perform with Hot Headed Mike and his voice to mimic the sounds of a numThe Half-Baked Jazz Band. ber of musical instruments and nature. Marka performed Autumn De Javu in both the English and Japanese languages. The evening provided local musicians an opportunity to perform with unusual talents while showcasing themselves as an upcoming popular band.

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Monessen Council Votes No Sale to Buildings Elizabeth Township Police Department Welcomes Three New Patrolmen By Michelle Taylor The Elizabeth Township Police Department has hired three new officers to the force. White Oak Magistrate Tom Miller swore in Patrolman John Patterson, Patrolman Chris McBride, and Patrolman Jordan Angelo. Commissioner Claire Bryce stated that all bills are in order but would like to address the solicitor of the zoning board about discussing the fees at a later time. Bryce also asked Code Enforcement Officer John Snelson if he looked into the yard in Boston where a man is beginning to do car repairs on his property again. Elizabeth Township received a grant for 2 AEDs; one is located in the lobby of the municipal building and the other is located in the main building of the community center. Commissioner Bryce inquired about the time frame of when the ice skating rink will be up. Paul Saxon responded that it is way too early for that. Last year it was put up too early and many problems arose. As long as the frame work is put up before the ground gets a hard freeze, everything should be fine. All materials have been received so they are prepared. Swede Construction will once again donate the lights for the rink. The Road Department says the Schweitzer Road Project has begun and is in the process of getting a 250 foot pipe installed. Patterson Road is complete and once the guard rails are

up; the road will reopen. The amount owed to Swede Construction is $42,988.95 and reimbursement from the grant by the county is expected. The department is still waiting on the milling machine to come in so that Fleming can get paved before the weather gets bad. Forest Hill Road will need work done on it, as it is in the process of sinking. Mr. Paul Mackey said the township received their last load of the first order of salt for the start of winter. He said the salt shed is full and he is hoping that it is the only order they will need to put in. During Public Announcements, Mr. George stood and stated that Constitution Boulevard needs to be fixed and that he will be back every month until something gets done. Commissioner Beckowitz said they will look into a road specialist for that specific road. Resident Frank stood to thank the fire companies, the commissioners who donated, and the local businesses for their participation in the Butlers Golf Course Wounded Warrior Outing. They had 12,397 golfers and 567 wounded warriors. Butlers Golf Course alone raised over $21,000 and after 3 years of doing this, they have raised $1,024,227 for the wounded warriors. Various motions were passed before the meeting was adjourned. *Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is based on the approved minutes obtained from the township.

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Mayor Lou Mavrakis speaks with conviction about the lost sale of the Monessen buildings.

By Jill Brown The Monessen City Council meeting on October 26, 2015, was standing room only as residents all came out to hear the big vote that had been postponed for this month. Tejas Gosai and his father, Dr. Kamlesh Gosai, had offered $265,000 for the Municipal Complex and the Eastgate buildings, planning to donate back the Eastgate building to Monessen. Council had accepted the Gosais’ initial bid back in August, a move one resident later said at this meeting “was wasting their (the Gosais’) time.” Mayor Lou Mavrakis said the words for which everyone had been waiting, “I make a motion to approve the sale between the City of Monessen and Tejas Towers Inc. for the property of One Wendell Ramey Lane and the Eastgate 11 building.” Councilman John Nestor began, “I’ve had a lot of sleepless nights wondering what the sale of this building can do for Monessen.” Then he was interrupted with outcries from residents before he could say, “No.” Councilwoman Patricia Bukowski said, “I’m voting no. As with John, we have in our own way struggled with this. We have not been offered enough money for it. $250,000 is not even enough to buy an elevator. There was never any meeting back and forth with this. I think if we had been offered $500,000, we would have all accepted the bid.” Mayor Mavrakis said, “A building is only worth what people are going to

Councilwoman Lucille D’Alfonso listens to the debate during the Monessen Council meeting.

pay for it.” Councilman Josh Retos said, “This is the city’s biggest asset. By selling this building at such a reduced rate, it will open floodgates for tax appeals. Unfortunately my vote’s going to have to be no.” Councilwoman Lucille D’Alfonso said, “No. Everyone knows my position.” Mayor Mavrakis said, “We’ve been losing money on this building. We’re 13 million dollars in debt thanks to you (D’Alfonso.)” He later continued, “You’ve chased away an investor who was going to spend millions of dollars on Monessen. I was trying to do something to move the city forward.” Mavrakis, angry with Council, said that it is because he is in support of the sale that Council voted against it. He then asked why the sale of former City Hall to Dr. Martin Dudas was sold for only (approximately) $10,000, without question or debate. During Public Forum, resident Josh Turkovich inquired of Council: “Where do we go from here? Because we’re dying.” Councilwoman Bukowski argued, “Don’t say that—we’re not dying. You would not give your house away if you thought it was worth $500,000.” Solicitor Gary Matta stated, “We’re going to continue to try to market this building.” The meeting dragged on for three hours as residents were in shock over the lost opportunity that evening and sought answers, finally growing weary. With that, the meeting was adjourned.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Two Pleasant Hills Police Officers Receive Awards for Commendable Service By Ken Askew You’ve probably seen a TV crime show that starts out with “This is 911—what is your emergency?” Shortly after noon on July 11, 2015, that was the response to a call from a local cemetery, so two Pleasant Hills police officers--Matt Plunkett and Gary Barr-were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival in their individual police cruisers, they encountered an intoxicated male who threatened to kill the officers with a homemade sword. The subject refused to put down the sword, so the officers drew their service weapons. While Officer Barr kept the male’s attention, Officer Plunkett moved around behind him, holstered his gun, and deployed his taser, causing the male subject to drop his sword. He was handcuffed, and the Emergency Management Service was called to transport him to the Jefferson hospital for treatment and a mental health evaluation. While waiting for the ambulance, the male subject stated that he wanted to die via suicide by cop. He has

been charged with public drunkenness, disorderly conduct, and making terroristic threats. The officers were able to defuse a potentially violent situation with a high level of professionalism and restraint. Officers Plunkett and Barr were therefore nominated by Pleasant Hills Borough Chief of Police Brian Finnerty for recognition of their teamwork and ability to assess and de-escalate the situation without resorting to lethal force on a troubled, armed citizen who wanted to harm himself. Two dozen law enforcement personnel were recognized for their bravery at the annual Senator John Heinz Law Enforcement Awards Luncheon in Pittsburgh, attended by 400 people, and sponsored by the Amen Corner. At the luncheon, Officers Matt Plunkett and Gary Barr each received a desk statue for their efforts. The Amen Corner was founded in 1870; its membership has included judges, lawyers, university deans, bank presidents, governors, mayors, senators, House Representatives, and other prominent leaders in finance and industry.

Officers Matt Plunkett (left) and Gary Barr (right) of the Pleasant Hills Police Department display the statues that were presented to them by the Amen Corner organization.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

December 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————

South Park Police Department Receives 2015 Community Traffic Safety Platinum Award By Colette Dell The Township of South Park held its regular meeting on November 9th at 7 p.m. Prior to the meeting, the Township held two public nuisance hearings to decide if two houses would be deemed public nuisances. It was decided that the house on Highland Ave. and the house on Grove Rd. are both considered nuisances. There was a motion to ratify the release of a bond in the amount of $8,632.80 to guarantee the completion of a sanitary sewer extension, located at 1649 Amanda Ave. The letter of agreement by and between Mackin Engineering Company and South Park, which provides for the terms and conditions of the review of the update to the gas and oil ordinance by Mackin Engineering Company, at a cost not to exceed $2,000, was approved.

Two fire hydrants will be placed at the intersection of Riggs Rd. and Maria Way and between the addresses of 114 and 116 Maria Way. The Township has looked into the terms and conditions for the installation of public fire hydrants and will allow the Pennsylvania-American Water Company to install the hydrants. In other news: There were two resolutions authorizing the filing of two applications for funds with the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development for the Cardox Rd. storm water improvements project and for the Administration Building’s automated doors. An action on a snow removal agreement by and between the Township of South Park and Quality Rentals was made to provide winter maintenance services to the major subdivision identified as Bonnie Dell Acres, Phase 3, Decker Dr.

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The request submitted by Southersby Development with regard to modifications/ waivers to the subdivision identified as the Della Strada Phase 2 Subdivision off of Riggs Rd. was approved. Bids for the sale of South Park’s 2010 Ford Crown Victoria, will be opened on Thursday, December 10 at 10 a.m. The minimum acceptable bid for the vehicle is $1,000. The Grove Rd. Storm Sewer project, Phase 3, will be completed by Independent Enterprises Inc., in the amount of $30,500. Finally, in a wonderful way to cap the evening, the township announced that

AAA awarded South Park Police Dept. the 2015 Community Traffic Safety Platinum Award, for being one of the safest traffic areas. The Township’s police department has won this award in the past four years.

Carroll Twp. Police Dept. Going Strong By Miranda Startare Carroll Township Police Chief Paul Brand thanked the board of supervisors at the Nov. 5 regular monthly meeting for approving a five-year labor contract with the local police department. The agreement between Carroll Township and Teamsters Local 205, who represent Carroll Township Police Department, was accepted and approved for the period of Jan. 1, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2020. Chief Brand also thanked the taxpayers of Carroll Township for their contribution to the police force, especially when many communities are disbanding local police departments and passing the burden of law enforcement onto the state police, according to Brand. “We’re trying to beat back the bad guys,” Brand said, expressing his appreciation that the board of supervisors and the Carroll Township community support their efforts. “They take public safety seriously,” Brand stated, “and we thank you and appreciate your support.” Also at the monthly meeting, resident Maya Patch discussed the possibility of Carroll Township using the legal channels available through Pennsylvania Act 90 to help eliminate blighted properties in the township. The Neighborhood Blight Reclam-

ation and Revitalization Act, known as Act 90, was enacted in 2010 and gives municipalities more legal muscle to go after neglectful property owners, in part by allowing municipalities to attach assets of an owner to pay to bring a blighted property up to code or to tear it down. Patch addressed the board, saying, “You can go after those people.” The supervisors, who are aware of the legislation and have used legal means to address problem properties, also reminded residents that the law does not equate to having the funds to enforce it. Zoning Officer Dennis Butler echoed the supervisors, stating, “Where do you get the money?” In other business, Carroll Township recently received a performance grant from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in the amount of $2,381. The grant is given to the township based upon the community’s recycling efforts, and the amount is directly correlated to the amount of recycling that is collected in the township. Residents and businesses are reminded and encouraged to continue recycling, noting that increased efforts will result in increased funds for the community. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Dec. 1 at 6 p.m.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

Peters Township Council Approves Sanitary Authority Bond Issue Agreement By J.R. Brower Peters Township residents serviced by the Peters Township Sanitary Authority can expect 13% sewer bill increases next year and beyond as a result of an expansion project at the Donaldson’s Crossroads Sewage Treatment Plant. Much of the cost will be absorbed by a $7.5 million bond issue which was approved by Peters Township Council at their November 9 meeting. Since the township has guaranteed the 25-year bond issue in the agreement rather than have the sanitary authority take out the bond issue on its own, the authority will save approximately $1.3 million. This is due to the fact that the township has an AA credit rating, according to Township Manager Michael Silvestri. Officials said that the total cost of the expansion project will be nearly $21 million. The bond issue will be used to accompany an $11 million PennVest loan along with a grant from the Local Share Account to pay for the project, which will expand capacity at the facility on West McMurray Road by 45%. Increased development around the Donaldson’s Crossroad area has warranted the need for expansion. PTSA Controller Patti Mowry told Council that the authority plans to begin construction in January and that that the expansion should be completed by December 2017.

In other business, Peters Township Council: Heard from resident Bob Donnan, who expressed concern about the possible size of a natural gas drilling site in the planning stages in Nottingham Township close to the border of Peters. Donnan expressed concern about EQT Corporation’s proposed Lutes well pad site on Lutes Road, which is within a half mile from Rees Park and Peters residential neighborhoods. He said that the company is planning to drill 24 wells at the site, and his concern was the impact an accident might have upon residents due to the size of drilling site. EQT spokeswoman Linda Robertson said since the drilling site is still in the planning stage, it is not certain exactly how many wells will be drilled. She said they are still evaluating the logistics of the proposed site, and her company would work “diligently” with residents and officials to address all concerns. Approved a new five-year contract for the township’s 22 full-time police officers. The contract with Teamsters Local 205 calls for a 2.5% annual raise and requires officers to wear bulletproof vests and have at least three officers be on duty at all times. Approved the purchase of fuel from Glassmere Fuel Service. The contract calls for 34,000 gallons of gasoline and 27,000 gallons of diesel fuel for $104,320. It was noted that the variable price was nearly $50,000 cheaper than last year.

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Recent Local Death Notices AUEL, Theodore B., 88, of Brentwood, died October 26. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. BAHL, Raymond J., 87, of Whitehall, died November 6. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. BALDWIN, Adrienne Arlene, 79, of Baldwin, died October 25. Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe. BALOGH, Margaret “Marge”, 83, of Charleroi, died November 1. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. BERCIK, David P. Sr., 60, of Monongahela, died October 29. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. BICKERTON, Frederick Joseph Sr., 88, of Finleyville, died October 31. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. BOBOLA, Marie (Berardino), 92, of Donora, died October 8. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. BRICKMAN, Aarron, 35, of Donora, died October 3. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. CAROZZO, Mildred G. (Moore), 84, of Jefferson Hills (formerly of Clairton), died October 26. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. CASCIELLO, Marlyn (Stahura), 86, of Jefferson Hills, died October 27. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills. CELESTINO, Daryl A., 67, of West Elizabeth, died October 11. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills. COATES, Justine, 69, of Bethel Park, died October 18. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. CUSHEY, Jeannette D., 83, of Finleyville & Nottingham, died October 26. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. DANTRY, Frances, 94, formerly of South Park, died on October 31. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. DATOVECH, William J., 65, of Monongahela, died October 18. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. DIETZ, Emily Coven Gazi, 86, of Roscoe, died October 17. Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe. GAGLIARDI, Mary Jane, 78, of Finleyville, died October 4. Arrangements by Marshall

Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. GRICAR, Norma (Melani), 88, of South Park, died October 20. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. GRIFFTH, Corey M., 59, of Charleroi, died October 25. Arrangements by SchrockHogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. HAPPNER, Bernice, 91, of Bethel Park, died October 2. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. JEANMENNE, Margaret “Margie”, 80, of Charleroi, died November 11. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. JENKINS, Joshua M., 26, of New Eagle, died October 8. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. KELLER, Philip C. Jr., 87, of Baldwin Boro, died October 20. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. KIRK, Glenn A. Jr., 76, of Finleyville, died October 17. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. KLEIN, Michael A., 61, of Baldwin, died October 23. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. KRUELL, Laverne, 88, of Charleroi, died October 27. Arrangements by SchrockHogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. LEERBERG, Louise (Iwanoski) Wonderley, 89, of Jefferson Hills (formerly of West Mifflin), died October 20. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. LEHR, Dolores, 90, of Roscoe, died November 13. Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe. LEVERING, Cecelia, 85, of Coal Center, died October 7. Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe. LEXIE-LINCAVAGE, Diana M., 72, of New Eagle, died October 8. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. MACKULIN, George IV “Geo”, 30, of Jefferson Hills, died October 12. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills. MANKO, Lewis R., 60, of Finleyville, died October 23. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. MATTHEWS, Dolores J., 76, of Finleyville, died October 15. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

McFADDEN, David, 77, of Bethel Park, died on October 22. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. McNEMAR, Margaret, 73, of Upper St. Clair, died October 17. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. MOORE, Helen J. “Jackie”, 82, of Finleyville, died November 16. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. MOWRY, Frances M. (Orsi), 75, of Pleasant Hills (formerly of Jefferson Hills), died October 17. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. OESTERLING, Thomas E., 63, of West Mifflin, died October 21. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. PALFREY, Samuel Jr., 89, of Fallowfield, died October 10. Arrangements by SchrockHogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. PALUSO, Charles Addison Jr., 75, of Belle Vernon, died October 19. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. PARCHUKE, Daniel D., 46, of Monongahela & Bethel Park, died October 20. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. PERGOLA, Joseph C., 67, of Donora, died October 3. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. PERZER, Jack, 73, of Whitehall, died November 13. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. PROTIN, Russell “Russ”, 58, of Stockdale, died November 9. Arrangements by Melenyzer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Inc. in Roscoe. RUFFING, Elizabeth “Liz”, 72, of Jefferson Hills, died October 8. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills. SAUNDERS, Donald E., 70, of Cecil Township, died October 28. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. SHEDD, Beverly, 63, of Canonsburg, died October 28. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. SHULTZ, Roy R., 73, of Monongahela, died October 7. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. SIMS, Jacqueline “Jackie” Malone, 90, of Fisher Heights, died November 16. Arrangements by Carl J. Spallino Funeral Home in Charleroi. SITKO, Elizabeth, “Betty”, 79, of Jefferson Hills (formerly of Glassport), died October

31. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills. SLACK, Reverend Robert R., 89, of Jefferson Hills (formerly of Weltytown, PA) died October 24. Arrangements by Stephen Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills. SOPKO, James N., 55, of Morgantown, WV (formerly from Venetia), died October 29. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. STOFFEL, Carol Anne G., 73, of Monongahela, died October 10. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. SUSKO, Julia, 87, of Mapleview & Jefferson Hills, died October 23. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. SWICK, Jillian, 43, of Bethel Park, died November 8. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. TELLECK, Jennie, 93, of Carroll Township, died October 26. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. THOMAS, Frances Marian, 80, of Bethel Park, died October 22. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. THOMPSON, Bart A., 52, of Van Voorhis, died October 27. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. TRICH, Charles W. III, 73, of Monongahela, died October 28. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela. VESELENI, Mary, 90, of Bethel Park, died on October 15. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. WADSWORTH, James L., 83, of Charleroi, died November 3. Arrangements by Schrock-Hogan Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Charleroi. WALTERS, William. S., “Uncle Bill”, 77, of Finleyville, died November 11. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. WEIGEL, June E., 90, of South Park (formerly of Baldwin) died November 11. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. WHETSEL, Clarence, 88, of West Mifflin, died October 20. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills. WIKERT, Mary, 75, of Bethel Park, died on October 4. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park. WILLIAMS, Edward I., III, 75, of New Eagle, died October 23. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

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Business & Merchant News Greater Rostraver Chamber Holds Ribbon Cutting for The Vintage Valley Too

GRC NOVEMBER BUSINESS OF THE MONTH IS AUNTIE ANNE PRETZELS

Pictured are (left to right): Ashely Celaschi; Bonnie Brand; John Mollenauer; Jennifer Brown Kisiday; and Karen Wagner.

Pictured are (l-r): GRC Board Member Lynn Grimes; owner Mary Beth Colborn; Whitney McCourt; Mary Lingis; owner Lori Podloger; Jenna DiPerno; Jocelyn Jordon; and GRC Board Member Judi Robbins.

On Friday, November 13th, The Vintage Valley Too, located at 515 McKean Avenue, Charleroi celebrated their grand opening. The Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce coordinated the ribbon cutting to welcome The Vintage Valley Too to the community. The Vintage Valley Too is the “sister-store” to The Vintage Valley in Monongahela, and Jennifer Brown Kisiday is the proprietress of both businesses. The Vintage Valley Too features a variety of vendor spaces each offering unique items, antiques, gifts, furniture, handmade soap, art, jewelry, vintage clothing and more. The Vintage Valley Too is open Tuesday - Friday, 11a.m. to 7p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 724-565-1120.

GRC MEMBER EVENTS ARE OPEN TO ALL Cooking Classes with Sweet & Spicy Culinary – A number of upcoming cooking classes are scheduled at Sweet & Spicy Culinary, located within Off the Wall Arts at 532 McKean Avenue, Charleroi. Chef Christine Somales will provide the instruction. Class size is limited and advance registration is needed by calling 724-797-0879. Martins Christmas Tree Farm – Opens for the season November 27th and remains open all weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) until December 18th, from 10 a.m. to dusk. The 82-acre Christmas tree farm is located at 699 Porter McNutt Road, Belle Vernon. For information call 412-496-7827. Howard Hanna Chow Chow Luncheon – The 18th annual fundraiser luncheon is scheduled for Friday, December 4th at Clubhouse Grill at Cedarbrook. Tickets are $10 and are available the door or by calling Howard Hanna Simon Real Estate, 724929-9699. All proceeds benefit the Monongahela Valley Hospital Children’s Free Care Fund. Create a Simple and Effective Strategic Plan for 2016 Workshop – Friday, December 4th from 8 a.m. – noon, facilitated by Ken Sevick of ActionCoach. You will learn a solid format and structure for planning, the six key areas you need to plan, strategies for marketing, sales, time management and improving team productivity, and understanding the mindset of a successful business owner. Register at http://unbouncepages.com/12-4-15-strategic-planning/.

Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce (GRC) is pleased to name Auntie Anne Pretzels as their November Business of the month. Auntie Anne’s has been proudly rolling pretzels since 1988, with more than 1,500 locations worldwide. Auntie Anne’s has been located inside the Belle Vernon Walmart since October 2013. Owners Lori Podlogar and Mary Beth Colborn are the local owners and operate the franchise on behalf of Auntie Anne’s. Lori and Mary Beth have been involved with Auntie Anne’s since 1993 and have been franchisees of the world’s largest soft pretzel brand since 2005. Fresh, hot, golden brown pretzels, pretzel nuggets, pretzel dogs and mini pretzel dogs are a great way to treat anyone. Contact Auntie Anne’s for catering and larger orders. Auntie Anne’s was founded on the premise of giving back to those in need, and Lori and Mary Beth have continued that in their own store. They partner locally with Westmoreland County Food Bank and the Salvation Army and they participate with the Auntie Anne’s national efforts to support Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Discounts are offered to Rostraver Chamber of Commerce businesses. Callahead ordering makes getting your favorite pretzels easy, too. Simply call 724929-4257 to place your order and call once again when you arrive at the curb. Auntie Anne’s will bring the order right out to you. Download the Auntie Anne’s loyalty app for rewards and discounts for frequent purchases. Auntie Anne’s is open Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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Chamber Façade Improvement Project Continues to Improve Charleroi Business District ings and storeThe Mon Valley Regfronts. ional Chamber of Com• To increase merce (MVRCC) has property values established a Façade in the central Improvement Project business district. (Phase III) to assist busi• To encourage ness and property owners new businesses in Charleroi's Central to locate in the Business District in imcentral business proving the appearance of district. the facades of the comGrants will be mercial buildings. made on a 1 to 2 Owners of businesses matching basis and commercial properties (one dollar of in the project area Medved’s Pharmacy grant money for (McKean and Fallowfield building’s façade was rehabilitated with the each two dollars Avenues between the Chamber Façade Improvement of private investBorough line on the Grant, Phase II. ment) with a southern end and 12th maximum grant Street on the northern end, including Chamber Plaza and all amount of $5,000 per property. streets perpendicular) are eligible to Grants will be awarded on a first apply for the matching grant façade come, first served basis, based on a project. Commercial residential prop- numbered file which will be opened erties with four housing units or more for each preliminary application when in the C-3 zoning district will be con- submitted. MVRCC chamber memsidered. The purposes of which are as bers are given primary consideration. Minimum grant is $1,000 per properfollows: • To stimulate investment, sales and ty, i.e. there must be at least $2,000 other economic activities in the cen- investment. This program represents the third tral business district. • To enhance the existing historic phase of funding received by the character of building in the central Washington County Local Share Account. The previous programs have business district. • To promote the image of the cen- generated $222,000 in property tral business district as a strong eco- improvements by private investment. Please contact Deb Keefer at debnomic entity. • To encourage preventive mainte- biek@mvrchamber.org for a complete nance and proper repair of the build- application package.

GREATER ROSTRAVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS ActionCoach - Ken Sevick , Monongahela, PA 15063 Phone: 724-310-3296 Fax: 724-582-4311 www.actioncoach.com/kensevick Martins Christmas Tree Farm 699 Porter McNutt Road Belle Vernon, PA 15012 Phone: 412-496-7827 • www.martinschristmastreefarm.com Jill A. Devine, Esq. 4660 State Route 51 S,Belle Vernon, PA 15012 (724) 379-4601 • jill@bvlaws.com

Support the Local Business Community During the Holiday Season

The Reason for the Season…See Decorated Holiday Trees on Display

Bethel Park Chamber says, “Shopping locally keeps the revenue in our communities and increases job opportunities. Bethel Park, South Park and Castle Shannon are all communities that have many diverse businesses and much to offer our shoppers. Go to the bpchamber.org website to view Bethel Park Chamber Businesses in the tri-area of Route 88 - South Park Road, Library Road, Brownsville Road, Baptist Road and Castle Shannon Boulevard having shopping strips and malls. The website also lists the holiday activities in the tri-area for the season, from tree lighting to many store activities for children. Remember to stop at Ann’s Chophouse for dining and catering services, stop for good casual eating at Patsy’s Place, Dante’s Pizzeria, Judy’s Java Shop and Olive Oils Pizzeria in Hillcrest and Level 20 for dining and entertainment. Looking for dessert? Visit Jack’s Dairy Queen, pick up some donuts at Peace, Love and Little Donuts, pick up your holiday pretzels and baked goods at Bethel Bakery, and don’t forget Bruegger’s Bagels South Park Shops for your catering needs and office treats. All of these businesses have quality food and service. For more information, contact the Bethel Park Chamber at bpchamber.org or call 412-595-8361. Have a safe holiday season.

The Bethel Park High School Clubs will be displaying their trees in the high school lobby. The pictures of the trees will also be on social media for all to see and at the Chamber office at 2830 South Park Road. They will be beautifully decorated in various themes. The public can vote for their favorite tree and make a club donation. The winners with the highest donation get to pick up their trees on December 18, 2015. Consider getting a tree for a disadvantaged family, for a SHIM family, for an office, elderly family member, neighbor, or a nursing home. You get the trees with lights, decorations and ready to display in your home or business. The Bethel Park Chamber would like to thank the following tree sponsors: Henney Family Services; Visionary Federal Credit Union; Brookside Lumber & Supply Co, Inc.; Allen’s Dairy Queen; South Park Shops; Evey Hardware; Gotcha Covered; Cool Springs; Bethel Bakery; Level 20; Liberty Mutual; Bob Purkey; Southwest Hearing, Inc.; Redford Photography; I Love Kickboxing; Millers Ace Hardware; Donte’s Pizzeria; INCommunity; Maiello; Brungo & Maiello, LLP; Home Depot; Pool City; Lowe’s; WalMart; Busy Beaver; and Sears.

MVRCC Plans Annual Christmas Party Would you like to promote your business? Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (MVRCC) is now accepting sponsors for our annual Christmas party! The $200 sponsorship includes two guests, and you will receive signage at the party and mention in all publicity and postings of party. Please call 724-483-3507 or email members@mvrchamber.org. See you there!

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Three Local Companies Recognized for Exemplary Giving and Service With WCCF’s Charles C. Keller Excellence Award for Corporate Philanthropy The Washington County Community Foundation (WCCF) is pleased to announce that the recipients of the 2015 Charles C. Keller Excellence Award for Corporate Philanthropy are ANSYS (large employer category), NSA Security Forces (medium employer category), and SunnySide Supply (small employer category). All three companies were recognized for their generosity at the WCCF’s annual Philanthropy Banquet on Thursday, November 19 at the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe. The award was created in 2011 to recognize local for-profit businesses for exemplary giving and com-munity service. Criteria for the award are as follows: Demonstrate a company philosophy of community service, such as time off or flexible scheduling for employees to perform community service; Encourage employee commitment at multiple levels of the company; Donate resources including financial, personnel, facility or product; Orchestrate a sustained effort to address a community need; Promote active community participation by others. Prior honorees include AccuTrex Products, Beechie’s Place, CentiMark Corporation, Channel Craft, CONSOL Energy, Observer Publishing Company, Peacock Keller, rose plastic and Washington Financial Bank.

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MACC Holds Ribbon Cutting for Angel’s Secret Flowers

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MVRCC Holds Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Mon Valley Hose & Fitting

Pictured (l-r) are: Patricia Staffen, Alizabeth Leezer. Amber Staffen Leezer (Owner), Maria Febbraro, Tom Ruschak, David Staffen, Sr., and Chamber members Michelle Hazen DeHosse and Tony Bottino, Chamber president. Other members of the Chamber are also present.

Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce (MACC) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Angel’s Secret Flowers on November 4th. Angel’s Secret Flowers provides fresh cut flowers, silks and dried flowers, funeral arrangements, wreathes, gift baskets, balloons, angel gifts, chimes, throws and much more. Business hours are Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are available by phone or appointment for after-hour orders. Pictured (l-r) are: Patricia Staffen, Alizabeth Leezer, Maria Febbraro, Tom Rushack, and David Staffen, Sr.

Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (MVRCC) recently held a ribbon cutting for Mon Valley Hose & Fitting, a new division of Tri-State Hydraulics, Inc. The business is located at 1250 McKean Avenue in Charleroi. For more information on their products and services, contact their in-house customer service representatives at 724-483-3189. Pictured (l-r) are: Jim Palmer, President TriState Hydraulics, Inc.; Derek Krouse, Ritter Technology; Harold Poland, Mon Valley Hose & Fitting; Brian Pivovarnik, manager sales engineer; Mike Sabo, parker; Mark Alterici, Charleroi mayor; Debbie Buck, Charleroi Borough Council and Chamber board member; and Larry Celaschi, Charleroi Borough Council.

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2015-2016 School Year 2015-2016 Providing solid, trustworthy instruction in a fun, loving and caring environmnet. Students work with dedicated teachers in small class sizes.

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Peters Township Resident Opens Cooking Company in Finleyville Girl Friday Cooking Co. Celebrates Recent Grand Opening

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

A Peters Township resident recently opened a new cooking business in Finleyville. Girl Friday Cooking Co., owned and operated by Peters Township resident Gretchen McNary, celebrated its grand opening on November 7. The business, which specializes in Paleo cooking, is located at 3540 Washington Ave. “We are very excited to celebrate our opening with the residents of Finleyville and surrounding areas, and most especially to join the Finleyville business community,” McNary said. “There will be fun for the whole family, including lots of food and drinks, cupcakes and even a kids’ area.” Girl Friday Cooking specializes in a wide range of Paleo dishes, which are meals that are full of lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats that are free of artificial or processed ingredients. “I approach the Girl Friday menu just as I would my family's own weekly menu,” McNary explained. “I sit down and think about what is in season and what I would like to eat for the week.” McNary launched Girl Friday Cooking in December 2014, when she began cooking for people using her own kitchen and supplies. She received four orders the first week, 16 the second and by January 1, she was totaling about 130 meals per week. Today, she averages between 170 to 200 orders per week-- numbers that required her to seek out the larger commercial space. In addition to the food, Girl Friday Cooking also offers gift certificates and can make meals for new parents, families who have just moved, individuals who have recently suffered a loss and

Girl Friday Cooking Co. Owner, Gretchen McNary

for those with various other special circumstances. Also taking part in the Girl Friday Cooking grand opening festivities is Running Om Green, a local company that specializes in making healthy juices and drinks for people of all ages. Amy Gordon, who founded the business, will be sharing business space with Girl Friday Cooking. “I got the idea for my business about six years ago, when I was trying to get my children to eat fruits and vegetables,” Gordon said. “We started making healthy smoothies and that evolved into juices. I am hoping that what I offer makes life easier for other families.” For more information about Girl Friday Cooking, visit www.GirlFriday CookingCo.com, like their page on Facebook and Instagram at Girl Friday Cooking Co. or call 724-413-3461. For more information about Running Om Green, visit www.RunningOmGreen. com, like them on Facebook at Running Om Green or call 850-2218774.

MVRCC WELCOMES NEW MEMBER FULL ARMOR FITNESS Full Armor Fitness - Samuel Sokol 207 Fifth Street, Charleroi, PA 15022 724-875-9302 Find them on Facebook at Full Armor FitnessGym/Fitness Center/Personal Training

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Seniors

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Seniors for Safe Driving Upcoming Events Seniors for Safe Driving presents highway safety education programs for seniors 55 years of age and older. The programs are certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The successful completion of the program makes senior drivers eligible for a 5% discount on their automobile insurance premiums, across the board, for a period of three years. Receiving this discount is mandated by Pennsylvania state law. If you have never participated in a senior driving program before, you must attend a two-day class. To qualify for a one-day program, you must have attended a senior driving program in the past. Upcoming Classes: • December 9, 2015, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., Redstone Highlands, N. Huntingdon, PA 15642 • December 16, 2015, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Carnegie Library, McKeesport, PA 15132 To register for a class call: 1-800-559-4880 or 724-283-0245. To register online, visit www.seniorsforsafedriving.com.

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VENETIA COMMUNITY CENTER SENIOR NEWS Venetia Community Center, located at 800 Venetia Road, in Venetia, has the following events planned: Senior Lunches – December 10th at 12 p.m. 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. December 10 Christmas Program – Sponsored by The Caring Mission of Washington County. Along with lunch will be a Chinese auction and other surprises. Birthdays for December: Bill Crawford, Lois McCloskey, Dorothy Townsend, and Charlotte Valentine - many happy returns! Anniversaries: Jack and Margaret Echenrode - congratulations on many happy years! To reserve your meal or for more information, please call Erma Grego at 724-941-6956.

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Senior Luncheon Holiday Celebration 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. If you would like to participate in the holiday gift exchange, please bring a wrapped $5 unisex gift. And as always, bring a friend to join in on the food, fun, and entertainment! Date: December 9, 2015 Time: Noon - 2 p.m. Location: Community Recreation Center, Peterswood Park 700 Meredith Drive, Venetia, PA 15367

Your health. Our primary focus. Right in your neighborhood. The choice is clear. A UPMC primary care physician gives you access to world-class care, together with the personalized attention you and your family deserve. For routine or complicated health issues, you will have the confidence of knowing you are connected to a network of medical experts, emergency medicine specialists, outpatient services, and more. To learn more, visit UPMCMcKeesport.com/PrimaryCare.

Choose from a network of more than 1,000 primary care experts.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

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CENTER IN THE WOODS SENIOR CENTER SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Center in the Woods Senior Center, 130 Woodland Court, Brownsville, can be reached at 724 - 938 - 3554. Listed below are their December events: Wednesday Dec. 2 - Christmas Carols at noon with the California University Choir Saturday, Dec.5 - Sparkle Dance with Best Of Times from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Cost is $20, includes a catered dinner and desserts. Gray's Photography will be taking prom - style pictures! Monday, December 7 - Holiday performance by our CITW Choir at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 9 - 2 Jolly Hearts Holiday Show at 11 a.m. Friday, December 11 - Holiday Performance from the Beth Center High School Choir at 11 a.m. Monday, December 14 - Holiday Show by Kenny & Chip at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 16 Christmas Lunch. Please call to RSVP!

Also a holiday sing - a - long with Nova Hospice, basket raffle, and our annual adult day center bake sale! Thursday, December 17 - Sing -ALong with our friend Jacob at 11 a.m. Also, join us for our Ugly Sweater Contest! Monday, December 21 - Join us for some trivia games at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 23 - Movie and Popcorn. Come watch A Christmas Story with us, and enjoy some fresh popped popcorn! Showtime is at 1:15 p.m. We will be closed for Christmas on Friday, December 25. Wednesday, December 30 Birthday Celebration at lunch! Come at noon! Thursday, December 31 - New Years Eve party! Bring in your favorite appetizer, and enjoy a dance performance by Betsy's Dance Center at 11 a.m.

Local Program Delivers Holiday Spirit to Seniors Sponsored by the Home Instead Senior Care® office serving Southwest Allegheny and Washington Counties, the Be a Santa to a Senior® program provides gifts and companionship for lonely and isolated seniors. Home Instead Senior Care has partnered with several organizations and local businesses to help with the identification and distribution of gifts to senior neighbors in need: • Aging Services of Washington County • Baptist Manor • Bethel Park/St. Clair Meals on Wheels • Brookline Meals on Wheels • Burgettstown Elderly Apartments • Canon Apartments • Canon House Apartments • Century Plaza Apartments • Char House • Crest Avenue Apartments • FOR STO-ROX: Focus on Renewal • Liberty Towers • LIFE Pittsburgh • LifeSpan, Inc. • Meals on Wheels Peters Township • Senior Life • South West Meals on Wheels

• Southwest PA Area Agency on Aging • St. Thomas Moore Manor • Washington County Health Center • Washington Meals on Wheels Participating retail locations will display Be a Santa to a Senior Christmas trees through December 14th that feature ornaments with seniors’ first names and their gift requests. Holiday shoppers can pick ornaments from the trees, buy the items listed and return them unwrapped (and with the ornament attached) to the location before December 14th. Volunteers will take care of wrapping and distributing the gifts to local seniors. “We have seen, firsthand, how much this program means to local seniors,” Cichon said. You can find Be A Santa To a Senior trees at the following locations: • Washington Crown Center Mall • Classics by Rene • Curves Bethel Park • Thomas Campbell Christian Center For more information on the program, visit www.BeaSantatoaSenior.com or call 412-595-7554.

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

St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church Holds Christmas Craft and Bake Sale St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main Street, Uniontown, is holding its annual Christmas Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday, December 5 from 12 – 5 p.m. and on Sunday December 6 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the upstairs school hall. The many craft items have been made by St. John’s Ethnic Craft Club. Also available are tree ornaments, imported items which include embroideries, icons, and other folk art from Slovakia and Ukraine. Available once again is the parish cookbook, Carpathian Cookery, now in its 17th printing. Its new look is in computerized format and has a plastic protective cover. Also available is a wide assortment of delicious baked goods, which includes long rolls, small kolachy (pastries filled with nut, poppyseed, and apricot), filled cookie cups, breads, molded candy, and many varieties of cookies. There is no admission charge. Parking is in the back which is handicap-accessible. For information, call the church office 724-438-6027 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

South Park’s Nativity Church Gears Up for 2016 Lottery Calendar Fundraiser The Nativity Church 2016 Lottery Calendars will be available for purchase beginning October 15, 2015 at $30 each. The calendars are professionally printed in 4” x 6” booklet form, each one having a 3-digit number assigned to it that is good for the entire year. If your calendar number matches the

Pick 3 number drawn by the PA Lottery Commission (7 p.m. drawing, first draw, straight hit only), you win the amount of money listed on the calendar for that day. It’s that easy, and there is no limit to how many times you can win per year. If your number is drawn, you win. We keep the records and automatically send you a check for your winnings. The prize money breaks down as follows: • 355 days @ $50/day • 9 holidays @ $100/day • Christmas Day & New Year’s Day @ $150/day Call the parish office at 412-6553000 for more info. You can also visit our website at www.nativitysouthpark.org and click on ‘lottery calendar order form.’ Order forms can be mailed in with payment and a random number will be selected and mailed to you. It’s never too early to think about Christmas. Lottery calendars make great gifts.

Wright’s Methodist Church Plans ‘Christmas in the Village of Venetia’ Celebration Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas in the Village of Venetia creating new holiday traditions with heartwarming colonial charm. Journey with your family in sharing and caring. music and drama, food and fun for all ages. Our friends of Venetia Heritage and Peters Creek Historical Societies and DARE Model Railroad Club join Wright’s United Methodist Church to welcome everyone to partake in the joy of Christmas this season. For more information, call 724-348-4059 or 814758-1385 or visit Wrightsumc.com. Below is the schedule of events: Friday, December 4 6:30-8:30 p.m. - Lite-Up Night

• 35-foot tree with caroling • Trains, campfires, and funnel cakes • ‘Grande Ole Opry’ Christmas show • Vintage Kaufmann’s Christmas display • Appalachian traveling craft show Saturday, December 5 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Santa's Breakfast workshop 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. DARE Trains and International Nativities, Appalachian craft show Sunday, December 6 12 – 5 p.m. - Colonial Wright Museum Soup and Stroll, Tours and Toasts - $8

Windover Hills United Methodist Church Plans Christmas Celebrations Windover Hills United Methodist Church, 6751 Ridge Road in South Park, can be reached at 412-653-6899. Below are their Christmas events: Precious Emmanuel Performance We invite the community to our performance of Precious Emmanuel, an original musical production of the birth of Christ, by Mr. Peter Stumpf. We are pleased this year to announce that Ms. Laura Stumpf, Peter's daughter, will be our director. There is no charge for the performances but a love offering will be received. Precious Emmanuel is appropriate for people of all ages and will be performed in the sanctuary of Windover Hills UMC. The performance dates and times are Friday 12/11 at 7 p.m., Saturday 12/12 at 6 p.m. and Sunday 12/13 at 11 a.m. Special receptions will be held in the fellowship hall after each performance to allow patrons to meet the cast and crew of Precious Emmanuel. Christmas Worship at Windover Hills UMC

This Christmas Eve we will offer three worship services at WHUMC. The first will be at 4 p.m. with our praise team and will be a contemporary family worship service. The second will be at 7 p.m. and will be a traditional service with candle lighting. The third will be at 9 p.m. and will be a traditional service with our chancel choir, with communion, and with candle lighting. On Christmas Day we will worship at 10 a.m. for a special family service where kids are invited to bring their favorite gift and share it during worship.

First Presbyterian Church Plans “Blue Christmas” Service First Presbyterian Church of Monongahela, 609 Chess Street, Monongahela, can be reached at 2588300. We are presenting “Blue Christmas,” a service of wholeness and healing. Monday, December 7, 2015 – 6:30 p.m. If you or someone you know and care about is hurting, alone, or feeling blue some of the time or all of the time this Christmas season, this worship is for you.

St. Mary’s Anglican Church Releases Christmas Worship Schedule St Mary's Anglican Church, Sixth Street and Lookout Avenue, Charleroi, announces its 2015 Christmas liturgies. The Christmas Eve celebration of the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ begins with carols at 7:30 p.m. followed by High Mass at 8 p.m. Christmas Day celebration is Solemn High Mass at 10 a.m. The Rev. Robert Hanna will be the officiant at both masses.

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Riverview Baptist Church Plans Christmas Season Events Riverview Baptist Church, 405 Main Street, New Eagle, can be reached at 724258-5696. For more information, go to riverviewbc.us. Christmas Season Events: Sunday, December 13 at 6 p.m. the children of the church will be presenting the Christmas program titled "The Dead Shepherds." Saturday, December 19 at 7 p.m. our very own Shepherd's Voice quartet will be presenting a evening of joyous music to our Lord titled "Christmas Joy." Thursday, December 24 at 8 p.m. our choir will be presenting our annual Christmas Cantata titled "Wondrous Gift."

Community of Christ Plans Live Nativity for December 19th Community of Christ invites you to their free drive through live Nativity on Saturday December 19, 2015 from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy 10 outdoor scenes, with live actors and animals, from the comfort of your car as you drive through a luminaria-lit path that depicts the journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer for setup or to be a part of the live Nativity, please contact Janet at 412-8057194 or Debbie at 412-833-6357. Community of Christ is located at 3472 South Park Rd., Bethel Park.

Gospel Alliance Church Schedule of Events Gospel Alliance Church, 1011 Fells Church Road, Belle Vernon, can be found on Facebook - Gospel Alliance Church or reached at 724-823-0453. Gospel Alliance Church is a group of people from all walks of life, various ages, cultures, and experiences. We come from different spots on life’s journey-from those just exploring Jesus, to those starting to figure out what being a Jesus follower looks like, to those who are fully engaged in pursuit of Christ. Wherever

you are on your journey, you will be welcome at GAC. So come casual, be yourself, and jump in. We look forward to seeing you soon! Christmas Candlelight Services: December 23rd 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. December 24th 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. Family Night Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. Awesome Adventures AWANA [2 year olds – 6th grade], 6:30 p.m. Little Adventures Nursery [birthage 4], 6:30 p.m. Student Youth Group [grades 6-12], 6:45 p.m. Men’s Growth Group, 6:45 p.m. Woman’s Growth Group, 6:45 p.m. Adult Prayer Growth Group. GriefShare: Those struggling with loss of a loved one are invited to come join this support group that meets every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Westminster Presbyterian Church Gears Up for Holiday Season Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2040 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, can be reached at 412-835-6630. For more information, visit www.westminster-church.org. Below are their December events. Breakfast at the Manger Saturday, December 5 9 a.m. Ages 2 through adult: $5, Children under 2: free Bring the entire family for breakfast, the Christmas Story with live nativity, crafts, games, and activities. Pet Remembrance Service Sunday, December 13 2 p.m. in the WROC If you or someone you know has recently lost a pet, please join us for a pet remembrance service. All family members, including pets that are still with you, are invited and encouraged to come. Westminster Annual Christmas Concert Sunday, December 13 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary This all-time family favorite has something for everyone and involves all the church choirs and the Upper St. Clair High School Chanteclairs. A reception will follow. All are welcome! Christmas Remembrance: A Service of Comfort and Hope

Wednesday, December 16 7:30 p.m. in Galbreath Chapel You are invited to join with others who have lost loved ones at a special service of Christmas remembrance. The service will be a time to remember your loved ones, to acknowledge your grief, and to be reminded again of the comfort and hope that the newborn Christ brings to us all, especially those who are hurting. Christmas Eve Services Thursday, December 24 All are welcome to join us at 5 p.m. for a family service; 7 p.m. for a contemporary service in the WROC (gym); and at 9 and 11 p.m. for lessons and carols. Bricks 4 Kidz Camp – Despicable Bricks We learn, we build, we play with LEGO® bricks! (ages 5 - 12) December 28, 29 and 30 Morning Session: 9 a.m. – noon Afternoon Session: 1 – 4 p.m. Cost includes a Bricks 4 Kidz tshirt.$75 - first child, $65 - each additional child. Kids will use fascinating and challenging LEGO® components to create dynamic minion-inspired inventions, machines, and more. Bricks 4 Kidz camp will keep the pace fast and varied with guided projects and challenges as well as time for free-play, so the kids are always having fun. Camp activities are geared toward specific ages; level of challenge varies based on age of child. Each day kids will build models based on the camp’s theme, free play with LEGO's®, have snack time*, and clean up. * Please send a nut-free snack with your child each day. Communion and Prayers Thursday, December 31 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. in Galbreath Chapel Join us for communion and quiet prayer time anytime between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. WROC Fitness Classes Beginning January 4, 2016 Visit wroc.westminster-church.org and register today for winter fitness classes.

South Hills Assembly of God December Events South Hills Assembly of God Church, 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park, can be reached 412-835-8900. Below are their upcoming events: Life Recovery, confidential Christian recovery group for any addiction,

open meeting, 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Women of Excellence, hosted by Pastor Sue Willis, meets at 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 8. Encouraging, equipping and empowering through the word of God; for women of all ages. Theme: You! Are a Kingdom Woman. Light refreshments, fellowship, worship, the Word, and group discussion. Free childcare available if pre-registered with Sue at ext. 147. Jingle in the City is a Broadwaystyle Christmas musical set in New York City in the 1940s that follows a group of homeless orphans who, though sometimes misguided, will steal your hearts as they learn what it means to be loved and to belong. Packed with original songs and traditional favorites, Jingle is fun, humorous and heartwarming. Performances are December 11, 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. each night. Admission is free; a free-will offering will be taken. HonorBound Men's Ministry will hold a free men's fellowship breakfast 9-11 a.m. Saturday, December 12. Enjoy breakfast, testimonies and fellowship, with a Biblical message for men of all ages. Hillcrest Christian Academy middle school band and chorus invite you to their Christmas program 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 15, in the sanctuary of South Hills Assembly. Lunch Bunch Bible study and luncheon for adults meets from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, December 17. Cost is $6 and includes lunch. RSVP by December 15. Gospel Women Prayer Group, a prayer and fellowship group led by Marge Kubany, meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, December 17. Hillcrest Christian Academy elementary school band and chorus invite you to their Christmas program at 7 p.m. Monday, December 21, in the sanctuary of South Hills Assembly. Christmas Eve Service will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, December 24 with a message from Pastor Kendall Harris. CommuniTea, a monthly women's Bible study/fellowship for all ages, meets from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, January 2. Hosted by Sue Willis with a variety of teachers/speakers. Theme: Favor. RSVP. Free childcare available if pre-registered with Sue at ext. 147.

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St. David’s Episcopal Church Upcoming Events

Charleroi’s First Christian Church Plans Holiday Events

St. David’s Episcopal Church is located at 905 E. McMurray Rd., Venetia. Newcomer’s Class This adult education class is designed for those new to or interested in the Episcopal Church or St. David’s, and can lead to confirmation if the participant desires. The class is a three-part series that will meet after the 10 a.m. service (approximately 11:15) on December 6th, 13th and 20th. Pre-School Christmas Pageant On Friday, December 11th, the preschoolers will put on a play depicting the birth of Christ in the sanctuary at 6 p.m. ‘Little Christmas’ Presentation On Wednesday, December 16th, the two- and three-year-olds will be presenting Christmas songs with words and movement in the sanctuary at noon. Christmas Eve Services At 3:30 p.m. the family service will take place with the Eucharist being offered and a children’s pageant. At 7 p.m. choral and instrumental Christmas songs will be presented followed at 7:30 p.m. by a traditional candlelight service. Vendors’ Offers Two vendors from the Peters Township Farmers Market will be accepting orders that will be delivered Wednesday afternoons at St. David’s. “Loafers” offers breads and pies, while “Kern Farm” will have eggs and chicken available. Please contact them directly for information. Loafers can be contacted at www.loafersbread.com and Kern Farm at 724-255-6549.

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), located at 61 Walnut Ridge Road, Charleroi, can be reached at 724-4899014. There are many exciting things happening at the First Christian Church of Charleroi this Christmas season: The annual Empty Chair Memorial Service is on Monday December 7, 2015 at 7 p.m. This is an evening of scripture, music, a meditation by the pastor, lighting candles in memory of loved ones and placing stars on the memory tree. This is for those who have recently had loved ones go with the Lord or for who have been gone for many years. A reception will follow in the social hall. The annual Community Christmas Cantata will be on Sunday December 13, 2015 at 3 p.m. The music featured will be “Season of Praise” by Joseph Martin. Directed by Charleroi’s choir director, Richard Carson, the choir features members from the host church and various churches around the Mon Valley. The Annual Tasting Party will follow. Admission is free. The Old Christmas Family Celebration will be held Sunday December 20, 2015 at 4 p.m. The program will feature talents of the church. These include various Sunday School classes, church families and individuals. Following this event, refreshments will be available along with a visit from Santa. The candlelight Christmas Eve service on Thursday, December 24, 2015 will be at 7:30 p.m. A meditation and Christmas hymn will be sung as each advent candle is lit. After communion, each person’s candle is lit from the Christ candle and Silent Night will be sung with the lights dimmed. Regular events during the month include Junior Church weekly for children ages 3-9 during the worship service. We also have a group called MOPS (Mothers of Pre Schoolers) that meet twice a month. And on the second Wednesday of the month there is potluck dinner at 6 p.m. for anyone who wants to attend.

Jefferson United Methodist Church Releases Holiday Schedule Jefferson United Methodist Church, 310 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills, can be reached at 412 653-3222. Below are their upcoming events: Advent Adult Bible Study (In Fellowship Hall @ Jefferson United Methodist Church) Mondays, November 30, December 7, 14 and 21 6:30 - 8 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Services December 24, 2015 at 4, 7, and 11 p.m. Please note…on Sunday, December 27, there will be ONE Service ONLY at 10 a.m.

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ENTERTAINMENT Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot! DECEMBER AMERICAN LEGION 724-258-3132 1940 Rt. 2023, Monongahela 5 – Sound of Country playing 31 – Sound of Country New Year’s Eve Party

BALTIMORE HOUSE 412-653-9332 176 Curry Hollow Rd., Pleasant Hills 4 – Roger Ford 5 – This Indecision 11 – The Jazzed Owls 12 – The Fugitives 18 – Cool JoeKr 19 – Black Sunday 26 – ATS 31 – The Fugitives New Years Party Wednesdays – Live Acoustic Thursdays – Karaoke DENNY’S ROADHOUSE 724-258-6232 3431 Rt. 136, Finleyville (Corner of Ginger Hill Rd & Rt. 136) Mondays – Saturdays Exotic/Lingerie Barmaids 6 p.m. – 2 a.m. E&E CLUB 412-835-9935 6495 2nd Ave., South Park Wednesdays – Pool League Sundays – Free Pool ELRAMA TAVERN 412-384-3630 1520 Rt. 837, Elrama 3 – Open Jam Night 8 p.m. 4 – Regular Joes 9:30 p.m. 12 – Running Low Band 9 p.m. 17 – Open Jam Night 8 p.m. 19 – Bill Young 7 p.m.

PUMP UP the VOL UME!

by Mandy Withers-Kozlowski

23 – ET Christmas Party w/ Todd Jones 9 p.m. 24 – CLOSED 25 – CLOSED THE HUNTING LODGE 724-348-7984 3529 Washington Ave., Finleyville Fridays – Free Juke Box 8 p.m. Saturdays – Free Juke Box 8 p.m. R BAR 412-942-0882 2883 W. Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh 2 – Craig King Open Stage 4 – Karaoke w/ Joanie 5 – 3 Car Garage 8 – Tom and Katie Acoustic Open Stage 9 – Craig King Open Stage 12 – Nicole Belli Band 16 – Craig King Open Stage 19 – Rock-It Band 22 – Tom and Katie Acoustic Open Stage RINKY DINKS ROADHOUSE 724-228-1059 339 Amity Ridge Rd., Amity 5 – Hillbilly Way 19 – The Rusty Haywacker 26 – Ruff Creek 31 – Andy Gregg & The Second Hand Band and The Rusty Haywhackers RIVER HOUSE CAFÉ 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi 12 – Brother Jeep 19 – The Classics ROY’S BY THE TRACKS 724-348-7118 3710 Rt. 88, Finleyville 4 – The Bill Ali Band

11 – Rock-It Band 18 – The Matt Barranti Band Sundays – Karaoke Wednesdays – Karaoke w/ Brett Saturdays – Karaoke TERRACE GARDENS 412-233-2626 1180 Woodland Ave., Clairton 4 – Daniels & McLain 11 – Tony Janflone 18 – Sputzy 20 – Annual Christmas Party 31 – Regular Joes – New Years Eve Party Wednesdays – Free Juke Box Fridays – Free Juke Box THE TRAILSIDE 724-872-5171 108 W. Main St., West Newton 3 – Trivia 8 p.m. 4 – Video DJ 8 p.m. 5 – Regular Joes 9 p.m. 10 – Trivia 8 p.m. 11 – Video DJ 8 p.m. 17 – Trivia 8 p.m. 18 – Video DJ 8 p.m. 19 – Regular Joes 9 p.m. 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

Save the Date for a Big Dose of True Christmas Spirit! St. Francis of Assisi Choir and Christmas Brass Ensemble Plan Concert The combined St. Francis of Assisi Choir and the Christmas Brass Ensemble of “Too Many Tubas” will present an Advent program welcoming Christmas with music and scriptural readings at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, just North of Finleyville off Route 88, on Sunday, December 13th at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome and admission is free. Please come and join us for a celebration of Christmas, we guarantee you’ll catch the spirit of Christmas.

Elizabeth Forward Area Community Chorus Plans Christmas Concert The members of the Elizabeth Forward Area Community Chorus would like to invite you to our Christmas concert, titled ‘Hark.’ This is a great way to start your holiday season, as the chorus and junior chorus perform seasonal numbers that are uplifting and fun, familiar and new, and above all, inspirational. The concert will be held at the Elizabeth Forward High School on December 4th & 5th at 7:30 p.m. and December 6th at 3 p.m. The High School is located off of Rt. 48 and Weigles Hill Road in Elizabeth Township. Ticket prices at the door are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors/students. A discount of $2 is available on each ticket purchased in advance. Please call 412751-0526 to purchase a ticket at the reduced price. A portion of the proceeds benefit a local charity. Canned goods for the food bank will be collected at each concert.

Harmony Singers Present Holiday Concert The Harmony Singers of Pittsburgh will present a holiday concert titled ’Tis the Season under the direction of Cynthia G. Pratt on Sunday, December 13 at 7 p.m. This concert will take place at Brightwood Christian Church, 5044 West Library Ave., Bethel Park and the concert will be presented again on Tuesday, December 15 at 7 p.m. at St. Germaine Church, 7003 Baptist Road, Bethel Park. Selections from the concert include “It’s the Holiday Season,” “Baby Born in Bethlehem,” and “The Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth.” The concert will feature favorite carols, holiday music, and a sing-a-long. Refreshments will be served following the concert. The concert is free and open to the public. A free-will offering to benefit the charitable and entertainment efforts of the Harmony Singers will be accepted. The Harmony Singers are celebrating their 50th anniversary of entertaining people in the South Hills. They are available to perform for civic, social, church, or business organizations. For information about the group or to reserve them for an event, visit www.harmonysingers.org.

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Cal U Department of Theatre and Dance Presents ‘Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical’ Community members will be onstage and high school students will be working behind the scenes when the Department of Theatre and Dance performs ‘Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical.’ This is the third consecutive year that local singers, actors, dancers and technicians will join Cal U students for the holiday production in Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre. Fred (Nick Franczak, Pittsburgh) helps Showtime is 7 p.m. Dec. 3, 4, and 5, Susan's (Emily Bittner, Charleroi) wish with matinees at 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6. All come true in Meredith Willson's ‘Miracle performances are open to the public. on 34th Street, the Musical.’ Children from area school districts will attend a school matinee at 10 a.m. Dec. 4 in Steele Hall. “It's exciting for our department and the university to come together with the local community to bring this heart-warming show to life,” said department chair Dr. Michele Pagen, who directs the production. “The local community cast, children through adults, become part of the theater family, and we love it.” The family-friendly musical is filled with humor, spectacle and such familiar songs as “Pinecones and Hollyberries” and “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” Based on the 20th Century-Fox Pictures production, its book, music and lyrics are all by Meredith Willson. The story takes place between the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Christmas. It centers on a white-bearded gentleman who claims to be the real Santa Claus — and who brings about a genuine “miracle” on 34th Street, spreading a wave of love throughout New York City. Among the Cal U students handling behind-the-scenes roles are Mikey Rogers, assistant director; Sidney Popielarcheck, dance captain; and Kellee Cohlhepp, production stage manager. Assistant stage managers Mark Barrett, Grant Prodan and Evan Peffer, all from Brownsville High School. Brian Eisiminger is providing musical direction, and choreography is by Maria Gismondi ‘02. Tickets are $12 for patrons of all ages. Students with valid CalCards are admitted for 50 cents; a $5 deposit will be returned when the student attends a performance. For more information, or to order tickets with a credit card by phone, call the Steele Hall Box Office at 724-938-5943.

Christian Women’s Quartet, Shepherd’s Voice, Plans Christmas Concert Christian women’s quartet, Shepherd’s Voice, will again celebrate the Christmas season by performing their annual concert titled “Christmas Joy” on Saturday, December 19 beginning at 7 p.m. at Riverview Baptist Church, 405 Main St. (Rt. 88), New Eagle. Join these ladies for an uplifting evening of favorite tunes of the season and sacred songs which retell the wonderful story of Christ’s birth. Shepherd’s Voice has been ministering to the Mon Valley and surrounding areas for ten years, and members include Debby Petrosky, Linda Yohe, Debbie Harn and Connie Watkins. There is no admission charge but a free-will offering will be collected to support this Christian music ministry.

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Local People News Susan Fancsali to Represent Northern States at USA National Miss Scholarship Pageant Next summer, Susan Fancsali, a senior at California University of Pennsylvania, will compete for the national title of USA National Miss, thousands of dollars in college scholarships, prizes and full-ride college scholarships to Troy University in Alabama. Along with outstanding young women from across the United States, Susan, who is the reigning USA National Miss Northern States, will travel to the Boca Resort and Beach Club in July for the USA National Miss Scholarship Pageant. Representing the state, Susan will Susan Fancsali compete in evening gown, interview and a runway fashion show event in order to claim the honor of being crowned the national winner. Susan was recently crowned USA National Miss Northern States 2016. Last November, she was crowned USA National Miss Pennsylvania 2015. After competing at the national level, where she won the Humanitarian award, she came back home to win her state volunteer award before crowning her successor. She then re-competed for the next title, as you can only win the Pennsylvania title once. Susan is currently getting ready to graduate in December from California University of PA with a degree in human resource management with minors in marketing and business management. She is a Presidential Scholar as well. Susan will begin her MBA at California University in January. Susan has a work study position in the Academic Records Dept. at Cal U, works part-time at LA Fitness in Pleasant Hills, and has an online internship with THE PAGEANT PLANET, where she asks the question of the day and is the book of the month club moderator. She is hoping to continue her volunteering for the Ronald McDonald House, Special Olympics, participating in events at her local library and making homemade greeting cards for Meals-On-Wheels. For Susan, she sees pageantry as a way of making a difference in the world. This was something she began at 19, so pageantry is basically new to her. She is now 23. “USA National Miss combines all the beauty and excitement of pageantry with the glamour and energy of a runway fashion show - while recognizing the personal achievement, community involvement and academic excellence of young women all across the USA,” said USA National Miss Executive Director Jackie Watson. “Our program is designed to award young women for their accomplishments, and to mentor them to reach their goals and unleash their true potential, while encouraging them to be articulate young women with a strong sense of self worth.”

Matthew Metrovich Honored for Attaining Rank of Eagle Scout By Paul Chasko On Wednesday, November 18, 2015, Matthew Metrovich was acknowledged as having completed all the requirements of the Eagle Rank at a Court of Honor conducted in the First Presbyterian Church of Finleyville. Present at the ceremony were members and leaders of Troop 1452, sponsored by the First Presbyterian Matt Metrovich admires his Eagle Badge Church of Finleyville, after being pinned by his mother, Linda members of Matt’s family, and many friends. Also present were Union Township supervisors Steve Parish and Paul Chasko; a staff member of State Representative Rick Saccone; Washington County Commissioner Larry Maggi; and PA State Senator Camera Bartolotta, who each presented certificates of recognition of Matthew’s scouting achievements. As part of the Court of Honor ceremony, the leaders of Troop 1452 attested to Matthew’s completion of all the requirements and ranks to make him eligible for the Eagle Award, including earning 35 merit badges that qualified him for the Star, Life and Eagle ranks. They also attested that he had successfully passed an Eagle Board of Review, conducted this past April. Every aspiring Eagle Scout must complete a significant community service project. As his project, Matt chose to renovate the parking area of Wright’s United Methodist Church in Venetia. The project consisted of the design and layout of the parking area, including the construction and installation of concrete tire bumper stops with designations for handicapped parking, adding air conditioner security posts, and an overall cleanup of the parking area. The Eagle Scout badge was presented to Mrs. Metrovich by Scoutmaster Andrew Sneed. Mrs. Metrovich, in turn, pinned the badge to Matt’s shirt. After receiving his badge, Michael presented his mother Linda and father John with memento pins of the Eagle ceremony, after which all present offered their congratulations. Matt resides with his family in Union Township and is now involved in the parttime operation of his photography business.

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PEOPLE

Somerset Township’s Clyde Henry Turns 90 By Paul Chasko Reverend Tom Chaiko (left) of The first thing noticed at Clyde’s 90th Bentleyville Methodist Church opens birthday party is that he’s very comfortable in comments on Clyde Henry’s (right) the Ginger Hill Grange. That’s most likely 90th birthday. because he’s been a member for 40 years and has held various Grange offices. The other things guests immediately noticed is that, at 90, he’s still very active and has made a great many friends. Clyde’s volunteer work at the Grange keeps him pretty busy – even at 90 years of age. If you’ve been to one of the many spaghetti dinners at the Grange, you’ve most likely had a dinner arranged in part by Clyde. He’s is proud to note that over the years the Grange has made over $80,000 with their spaghetti dinners – all donated to area folks in need. Clyde also helped to build the Grange kitchen-on-wheels the public has seen at many area events, turning out funnel cakes for sale. Except for a 27-month stint in the US Navy in the South Pacific, he’s spent his entire life in the Ginger Hill area, and as such, he’s associated with many historical area landmarks. If you’ve been to Mingo Creek County Park and have walked or driven across the Henry Covered Bridge, then you’ve crossed Mingo Creek on the bridge that was once part of the Henry family farm. The old stone farmhouse in the park is the house in which Clyde spent part of his childhood. Additionally, Clyde has been acquainted with farming all his life. In addition to work on the family farm, he worked for 42+ years for John Deere, keeping the equipment used by other area farmers in good operating condition. Would you believe a local country musician has even written a song about Clyde’s abilities? There was a cake after dinner, of course, and a lot of good-natured kidding about Clyde’s 90 years. Happy birthday, Clyde!

Brownsville’s 7-Year-Old Della Mitchell Publishes Children’s Book It isn’t often that a seven-year-old little girl pens a modern-day fairy tale, but Della Mitchell, the author of the acclaimed new picture book, Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Mermaid, has been telling stories since she first began to talk. Highlighting a vivid imagination and a whole lot of love, this vibrantly illustrated story reveals how Della and her little sister Lila meet Marina, the Monongahela Mermaid, while playing along the banks of the river at their grandparents’ home one day. With a sparkly rainbow fin and river grass braided through her hair, Marina is a dream come true, but the delight the two sisters feel is soon tempered by their discovery that it’s actually very hard to be a mermaid. As Marina relays, “Humans throw litter in the river! My friends and I work hard to try and keep the water clean. But, we can’t keep up.” As soon as she hears this, Della embarks on a mission to explain to everyone that pollution is very bad! She and Lila make signs, visit their neighbors, enlist the aid of family and friends, set up an information booth at the town fair, and even write a letter to the president of the United States. Exploring the themes of nature, conservation, family, and community service, the book contains a map and key, facts about the Monongahela River, and even introduces beginning concepts of biology, geography, and environmental science. This first in a series of children’s picture books written by Della, with a little bit of assistance from her mom Brianne, reveals the good that can come when a heart full of love unites with a determined spirit.

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Former Steeler Robin Cole Visits Monongahela Valley Hospital The 160 members of Monongahela Valley (MVH) Hospital’s leadership team were pleasantly surprised when former Pittsburgh Steeler Robin Cole was the guest speaker at their recent Leadership Development session. Mr. Cole, who was a first-round draft pick for the Steelers and a member of the famed Steel Curtain, is the founder and president of the Obediah Cole Foundation. The Foundation was established to save lives by educating people about prostate cancer. He is a prostate cancer survivor. During his MVH presentation, Mr. Cole shared life lessons as they relate to a successful leader — many which were learned on the football field during his 12-year career as a Steelers linebacker and defensive end. “Life can be rewarding when we are tough on ourselves,” said the veteran of two Super Bowls. “To be a successful leader, a person should practice the three ‘Vs’ — visualize, verify and verbalize.” Mr. Cole went on to relate a story about his frustration playing football during his high school years in Compton, CA. After his parents bought expensive football shoes for him, he wanted to quit the sport to play baseball. The veteran of the 1984 Pro Bowl said that he took his grandmother’s advice about switching sports.

Robin Cole addresses Monongahela Valley Hospital’s leaders.

“My grandmother said, ‘Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly until you learn to do it well.’” He told the audience that you are basically the same person today that you were five years ago and that you will be five years from now except for two things — the books you read and the people with which you associate. Mr. Cole left the group with a final thought on leadership. “Share your vision. Believe in people that they can do something. Give them ownership.” Monongahela Valley Hospital conducts development sessions throughout the year for its leaders so they can gain greater insight and skills to motivate employees to provide the highest level of patient care and excellent customer service.

Monessen/Rostraver Rotary Names November Students of the Month On November 17, the Monessen/Rostraver Rotary recognized four Monessen students for their academic and extracurricular activities. Seniors Kendra Henry and Cameron Deyell and 8th graders Audrey Hockenberry and Darrion Allensworth 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.

Pictured, Monessen/Rostraver Rotary President Gerald Stasicha (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 November. Pictured (l to r) are Cameron Deyll, Audrey Hockenberry, Darrion Allensworth, and Kendra Henry.

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YOUR HEALTH MVH Offers the Latest Diagnostic/Medical Imaging Technology Monongahela Valley Hospital (MVH) continues to be at the forefront of medical imaging with the recent installation of two new radiology rooms. The new fluoroscopic room incorporates a system that uses advanced digital technology to provide improved contrast for greater resolution. The process is digital without film or cassettes. The direct digital capture enables the medical team to view more detailed images which leads to greater accuracy. Images are retained in the hospital’s Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS) and can be easily viewed by the medical team in the hospital or physician’s office. This room is used for real-time imag-

a contrast material has been injected into the joint. Additionally, myelograms, which are diagnostic imaging procedures that use a contrast dye and x-rays to help diagnose problems of the spinal cord and other tissues are performed in the room. “The new system is very sophisticated,” said Janet Sue Shoenberger (right), radiology technologist, and Janet Forlini, MVH’s director of Imaging Services, demonForlini, MVH’s director of strate the “stitching” device used for diagnostic images Imaging Services. “We can of the spine, bones and extremities. watch barium flow through a person’s system. For peoing of the upper and lower gastroinple such as those who have had strokes testinal area. It also is used for arthroand have difficulty swallowing, we use grams, which are tests using x-rays to obtain a series of images of a joint after software that captures the swallowing

function which significantly aids the diagnostic process.” MVH also installed a new general radiology room that is used for diagnostic images of the chest, spine, bones and extremities. The technology in the room offers a new method of imaging called “stitching” which enables the medical team to take one image of the spine or leg, instead of the multiple images that were the norm with film or cassettes. “Previously, due to the length of the spine or leg, we had to capture the images in segments. The new system provides a higher level of imaging, greater comfort to the patient and it reduces radiation exposure,” said Mrs. Forlini.

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HEALTH

December 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————

MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL DECEMBER EVENTS

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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. Monday, Dec. 7 – 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. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 8, 9 and 10 – Managing Your Diabetes 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., ECC. This education 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. The program is three consecutive days with either morning or evening classes available each month. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start date of class by calling 724-258-1483. Tuesday, Dec. 8 – Alzheimer’s Support Group 6 p.m., ECC. This free support group meets the second Tuesday of each month. It is designed to help the family members, friends and caregivers of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Discussion topics include the challenges of coping with this disorder as

well as techniques for managing stress and methods of encouraging social engagement. Reservations are requested by calling 724-258-1333. Wednesday, Dec. 9 – Community CPR Instruction 11 a.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. Adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes are offered by Monongahela Valley Hospital in conjunction with Rostraver EMS. The fee for the class is $35 to cover the class and required materials. To register, call 724-872-9200. Wednesday, Dec. 16 – Advanced Carbohydrate Counting 6 – 8 p.m., ECC. This program is a diabetes self-management 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 724-2581483. Thursday, Dec. 17 – Stroke Support Group 1 – 2:30 p.m., ECC. The Stroke Support Group is designed for patients and caregivers to share, learn and grow with people who can personally relate to the daily challenges and struggles they face dealing with strokes and their after-effects. The group meets the last Thursday of each month. For more information, call 724-258-1455.

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December 2015 —————————————————————————————————————————

HEALTH

Insights on your Emotional Health with Don Zandier, Psychologist

The Futility of Fighting Have you ever won an argument? I mean, have you ever actually changed someone else’s mind? don’t believe so. After all, it is that person’s mind, and if it changes, it is because they themselves changed it. The truth is…arguing is an exercise in futility. When we are in the midst of an argument, the ineffectiveness is difficult to recognize, but when we are observers of an argument, the pointlessness becomes clear. There is absolutely no benefit in arguing. An argument consists of two people who are talking and not listening. On the other hand, a healthy discussion where opinions and ideas are shared can be useful. When people are talking AND listening, actual communication is taking place. I believe there may be a reason that we have two ears and one mouth - listening is twice as important (and much more difficult) than talking. For more information, you can reach Don Zandier at 412-833-1800 or visit the website www.enlighttreatment.com

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December 2015 —————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

BALDWIN BOROUGH Lla Schaeffer Mark Stephenson Baldwin Whitehall School District Robert Pack Bernard Dickson Legacy Lanes Inc. Donna Maravich Prakash Khanal Estate of Richard Powell Patricia Ferrese Govinda Khatiwoda Marianne Pabis Michael Swindell Harry Federoff Donald Stanford Jr. Ruth Scheible Nicole Ebert Charlene Romano John Sandrene Housing & Urban Development New Lockhart LLC Brian Urban Beverly DeGiovanni Keelan Enseki Kristina Thomas Kevin Linnert Mario Ciotola Matthew Doring

Matthew Drowser Kul and Leela Khadka Kevin and Fay Boland Scott and Jeanine Hernishin Carol Barber Radstage Realty Inc. Kevin and Fay Boland Khalima and Lyutfi Radzhapova Davin Rizal Gary and Naomi Schaffnit Deepak Kharel Frank and Jacquelyn Knezevich PNC Bank NA Community Options Inc. Pancham and Bhim Tamang Christine Javorski Jay and Therese Simpson Derek and Chelsea Fredrickson Zamigul and Asim Yusupov New Lockhart LLC 7 RE 247 LLC Vanaja Govind Penn Investments LLC Mark Garbowsky and Amy Hynde Ronald and Cheryl LaBrosse Alvin Dupree Jr. Keelan Enseki and Cara Troutman Enseki Om Timsina Stephen and Melinda Wilhelm Dennis Evans Jr. and Maura Evans

3474 Brickley Drive 479 Grace St. Joseph St. 518 Barbara Drive 5211 Blossom Road 5024 Curry Road 2817 Custer Ave. 1792 Hollyrood Road 121 Macek Drive 3419 Pleasantvue Drive 5488 Wolfe Drive 787 Becks Run Road 1613 Beryl Drive 5180 Curry Road 4887 E. Willock Road 42 Green Glen Drive 1507 Hollyrood Road 903 Irwin Drive 506 Leland Drive 314 Mary St. 314 Mary St. 5211 Meadowcrest Road 5246 Meadowcrest Road 2808 Michael Drive 1602 Towervue Drive 1549 Tretter Drive 3115 Vernon Ave. 4944 Young Drive

BALDWIN TOWNSHIP Lorraine Cerlan Doreen Valentine Estate of Emil Hosko

Lori Keefe Louise Baum Susan Hammond

2889 Highridge Drive 1413 Perri Drive 605 Donaldson Drive

Price $127,000. $188,000. $219,000. Now $119,000. f i n d Rea trans l comm a c t i o n s f r Stats $140,000. o u www. nity on ou m y o u r $600,000. mess r w e bsite! enger p $38,000. Real E Search aper.com. our state $167,000. and fi Transactio n n archiv d current s page $110,000. an ed ho me sa d les. $133,000. $151,000. $56,000. $7,883 by sheriff’s deed. $114,900. $152,000. $150,000 $96,500. $183,000. $237,000. $35,000. $35,000. $254,000. $66,000. $202,000. $275,000. $139,900. $133,000. $160,000. $111,500. $50,000. $104,000.

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(NAPSI)—There’s good news, bad news and better news for people who don’t like to clean out their gutters. The good news is, you won’t have to if you get any of the more than 40 different versions of gutter covers around. The bad news is, covered gutters are breeding grounds for mosquitoes and for nesting bees, wasps, even small rodents. Torrential rains can overwhelm the cover, causing ground erosion. The covered gutter can increase the chance for damaging winter ice-dams. The better news: There is an alternative. The time-tested Rainhandler Rain Dispersal System has a patented louver design so gutters don’t collect leaves or debris and require no cleaning or maintenance. Gentle, rain-sized drops spread out, away from your home. You’ll never have to climb a dangerous ladder to clean gutters again. Visit www.rainhandler.com or phone (800) 942-3004 for further information.

December 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

HINTS FOR HOMEOWNERS

Avoid Gutter Cleaning

HOME & GARDEN

Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

Joan Ritchea Lydia Chajkowski Tice

Ronald Badaracco III Trevor McGahey

847 Newport Drive 702 Rose Lane

$111,000. $111,000.

BENTLEYVILLE Joseph Agostoni Estate of Margaret Petroff Estate of Sylvia Casagrande Regis Satina Barry Stout Robert Weinzen

Erika Gobleski Joseph and Penny Agostoni Jennifer Nestor Betty Henderson Thompson Marodi Funeral Home Inc. Shawn Bercosky

207 First St. 1338 Main St. First St. 103 Second St. 809 Main St. 316 Oliver Ave.

$70,000. $142,500. $14,425. $57,500. $214,500. $68,000.

CARROLL TOWNSHIP Mark Cafeo Dorothy Dias et al. Edward Miller James Fontanelli James Pelissero Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Dorothy Dias George Young John Montgomery Dollar Bank James Pelissero Randolph Aaron Magone Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Lorraine Hotz

Jonathan and Lynn Suter Dorothy Dias Robert Prutznal Ryan and Amanda Phillips Timothy and Denise Bartman Robert Kolbe Jared Woods Andrew and Kelly Hein Ward and Katherine Kelley John Resosky Frank and Kimberly Guarinoni Oldeburg Property Management Inc. Roberta Kolbe Robert and Brenda Smith

128 Diane Drive 118 Monroe St. 5 Sunset Drive 206 Susquehanna Road Highland Road 1001 Marion Street Ext. 118 Monroe St. 13 Snyder Ave. 1005 Wanner Ave. 585 Dry Run Road 142 Hazelkirk Road 5 Grant Ave. 001 Marion Street Ext. 76 Shannon Road

CHARLEROI Jack Tanner

Calvin Dainty

Calvin Dainty Kevin Ulens Agnes McBride Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Joseph Federer Robert Steffan Mon Valley Community Federal Credit Unio Nicholas Patton

315 Crest Ave. $100 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $23,800). 315 Crest Ave. $5,000. 720 Washington Ave. $3,000. 609 Oakland Ave. $1,293 by sheriff’s deed. 1204 Lower Crest Ave. $12,000.

$194,600. $75,000. $105,900. $182,500. $25,000. $3,500 by sheriff’s deed. $75,000. $119,000. $129,900. $2,500. $2,500. $18,000. $3,500 by sheriff’s deed. $8,500.

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5 Ways to Keep Your Home Clean During a Remodel (NewsUSA) - Maybe you're finally updating your 1970s kitchen to one that's more sleek and modern. Perhaps it's as simple as remodeling a bathroom. Whatever the room, home renovations can be pretty hectic and messy. To get through your renovation, home organization is the key. The following tips should help you stay on top of the chaos. • Have files for everything. Paperwork should be kept in one place. Inexpensive file folders that are portable can help you stay structured. Create a file for all receipts, and as you post them to a budget, move them to another file labeled "posted." Permits and papers from the city should be kept together. Just for fun, create a folder of design ideas and pictures from magazines to keep you inspired. • Cover it up. One word: plastic. No, not credit cards. Use it to cover all heavy furniture that can't be moved (Continued on page 61)

HOME & GARDEN

December 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Twin Keys LLC Timothy Smith Mon Valley Community Federal Credit UnioBrad Todaro Tawny Weik Bank America NA Barbara Polaski Carlos and Janice Manen Ritz Marketing LLC Maria Degnan Marian McKenna James McKenna

216 Oakland Ave. 609 Oakland Ave. 831 Prospect Ave. 703 Shady Ave. 907 Crest Ave. 1011 Lower Meadow Ave.

CLAIRTON Dennis Moriarty et al. Thomas Pickford Wells Fargo Bank NA Mary Ann Hurm Housing & Urban Development Irene Stokes Timothy Sparbanie Estate of Angeline Catherine Oczypok Michael Yekich Jonathon Bilski

315 N. Fourth St. 604-606 Farnsworth Ave. 360 Halcomb Ave. 434 Baker Ave. 461 Carnegie Ave. 125 New Jersey Ave. 522 Farnsworth Ave. 417 N. Fifth St. 6401 Soltis Drive 1100 Toman Ave.

Curt and Karen Detman Richard Martin Tishane Denay Hagans Tucker Property Solutions Enterprises LLC Steven Robert Gori William and Deborah Straub Nair Raees and Ali Sajid Melvina Medvidovich Tyrone Miller Mark Merenick

DONORA Citizens Bank Joseph and Jennifer Janusek Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Rachel Bohon Washington County Tax Claim Bureau AMPMS Inc.

Price $3,000. $15,000. $43,172 by sheriff’s deed. $28,000. $31,500. $3,000. $5,000. $21,000. $7,450. $22,500. $15,000. $51,000. $13,000. $40,000. $5,000. $31,900.

110 Modisette Ave. $22,000. 409 Seventh St. $1,455 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $1,456) by sheriff’s deed. 1260 McKean Ave. $1,228 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $1,229) by sheriff’s deed. 641 Thompson Ave. $1,674 by sheriff’s deed. 637 Fourth St. $22,500. 734 Thompson Ave. $4,500. 721 Waddell Ave. $31,500. 501 Allen Ave. $60,000. 530 Castner Ave. $ 1,435 by sheriff’s deed.

Washington County Tax Claim Bureau Federal National Mortgage Assn. Jason Mattey Estate of Carolyn Brletich Charlottes Deli LLC Anette Ziemba

Rachl Bohon Beth and Richard Anderson Mario Johnson Hakerich Enterprises Inc. Itama Development Assoc. L.P. US Bank NA trustee

ELIZABETH BOROUGH Norma Weston

Orrie Rockwell Jr. et al. and Orrie Rockwell III 212 214 S. Third Ave.

$109,900.

December 2015 —————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Brian Loizes Robin Wargo Kevin McKelvey Gary McLay

Aaron Ford Joelle Ramey Dale and Kelli McCall Erik Olson

FALLOWFIELD John Lenhart et al. Estate of Thomas Palmer Estate of James Black Robert Wheatley Saundra Merashoff Kaylynn Beckham Geary Shipley Jr. Aaron Hofmeister

Steven Ellis Larry Anthony Amati Jr. and Sheila Sue Amati Lyle Michael Klescich Jr. Riskey & Sons Tire Auto Inc. Robert and Terry Wheatley David Smith Jamon and Tonya Lehman Camille and Jeremiah Chilzer

Address

Price

2025 Ridge Road $119,500. 301 Rothey Drive $113,000. 514 Tomahawk Drive $120,000. 707 Elway St. $17,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $52,211) by sheriff’s deed. Richard Borkowski et al. Robert L McKeown Irrevocable Real Estate 97 Enterprise St. $140,000. Robert Oeler Timothy Sippey 227 Lexington Road $165,000. Bank New York Mellon trustee Geraldine Haines 402 Lincoln St. $14,500. Alvin Coughenour Jason Coughenour 532 Lovedale Hollow Road $80,000. George Radosevich Adrian Edward Carnegie 414 Shaffer Ave. $97,000. Melissa Scarlato Fulmer William and Anita Merlino 119 Similo Drive $140,000. Residential Resources Inc. Jayme DeCarlo and Kenneth Tomco Boston Hollow Road $170,000. Erik Lundblad Deborah Harbadin 233 Dennis St. $87,000. John Lucas Bradley and Emily Kelly 713 Everglade Drive $95,000. Michelle Martin Christopher Yeo and Christie Soukup 302 Howell St. and Dennis St. $119,000. Steven Large Joseph Dunn 124 Mill Hill Road $124,900. Rex Kibe et al. Dillon Timko 121 Penn Crest St. $50,000. Federal National Mortgage Assn. Christine Madoni 500 Timothy Drive $91,000. Carol Ann Dailey et al. John McSurdy 10 Transit Drive $105,000. James Piergrossi John Perlick 1223 Greenock Buena Vista Road $88,500. Michael Pozzuto James and Ruth Bodner 405 Middlesex Road $236,000. Bank New York Mellon Trust Co. NA trusteProvidence Assets LLC 400 Monongahela Ave. $10,740. Albert Voss Barry and Carolyn Bisogni 2114 Neal Drive $155,000. 41 Bowman Ave. 1904 Grange Road 33 Albert Ave. 239 Kennedy Road 139 Lover Jonestown Road 329 Fremont Drive 159 Crossridge Road 42 Hickory Drive

$5,500. $147,000. $67,000. $70,000. $122,527. $160,500. $76,000. $172,500.

5 Ways to Keep Your Home Clean During a Remodel (Continued from page 60)

from the room. This will prevent dust and debris from getting into the cracks and crevices and keep the finish on the furniture looking shiny. • Keep a list. No matter how good your memory, things are going to fall through the cracks. Hanging a clipboard on a nail in the area you are working in will help you to stay on task about people you need to contact, or things you need to do or buy for the next day. • Have a place for everything. If you're doing the remodel yourself, there is going to be a certain amount of chaos and upheaval. One thing that will help reduce your stress level is keeping your tools in one place. Create a space, such as a table, where all small tools are kept. The larger tools can sit on the floor under the table. Every time you're finished with a tool, put it back. (Continued on page 62)

EXPIRES Expires12/31/2015 03-31-14

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5 Ways to Keep Your Home Clean During a Remodel (Continued from page 61)

• Contain your stress. If you're a person who turns to cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in times of stress, try your best to keep things clean by going outside to smoke or by carrying a portable spittoon. After all, you don't want a fresh burn mark or stain from a spill to end up on your brand new floors. FLASR has created a one-of-akind pocket-sized spittoon that allows users to open and shut it with just one hand, making it an ideal solution for taking your snuff, dip or chew into any room that's being renovated. In addition, the Atlanta-based company's spittoon, has an advanced closing mechanism, ensuring that it stays securely closed when not in use, eliminating the risk of spill and leaks often seen with cups and bottles. For more information, visit www.flasr.com. Market listing: FLASR (OTCQB: FLSR).

HOME & GARDEN

December 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

FINLEYVILLE Michael Zaken III

John Rossi

3119 School Place Road

$85,000.

FORWARD TOWNSHIP Barry Bisogni Estate of Charles Strotman Jr.

Gregory and Lauren Wilson Tyler Hajduk and Angela Folk

803 Ninth Ave. 377 Bunola River Road

$150,000. $129,000.

MONESSEN Gary Smith David Lewis

Gus Stoddart Jr. and Ida Mae Stoddart Darryl Lee Arnold Jr.

Gary Mellon

Darryl Lee Arnold Jr.

Robert Kapenstein

Darryl Lee Arnold Jr.

Mitchell James Bachuchin Raymond Kane Federal National Mortgage Assn. JLH Development LLC Gary Holet Christina Fetters Donna Marie DeRocco Wells Fargo Bank Walter Hopkins et al. Michael Tetteris Jr. Jason Mattey Monessen City Estate of Veronica Otrosina Christina Yates Estate of Willie Lloyd Wells Fargo Bank

Jesse Zunic Mary Rozik Russell Molar Mirasol Murray Patrick Schmidt II Nationstar Mortgage LLC JDN Investments Inc. Joseph and Rhonda Sitterly George Goettel Karen Jackson Mario Johnson Martin Dudas Joshua and Alyssa Haines Samuel and Barbara Lopresti Wells Fargo Bank Lisa and Billy Thomas

MONONGAHELA Cheryl Honick Estate of Allen Berger

Gary Matthew Borneman Gary Margoni and Alan Hazen

351 Balazia Ave. $105,000. 477 Knox Ave. $1,560 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $44,693) by sheriff’s deed. 1415 Maple Ave. $1,509 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $33,633) by sheriff’s deed. 205 McKee Ave. $1,565 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $58,328) by sheriff’s deed. 725 Ross St. $47,500. 1352 State Road $77,700. 1300 Leeds Ave. $18,500. 684 McKee Ave. $2,950. 149 Pacific Blvd. $47,500. 1120 Patton Ave. $2,094 by sheriff’s deed. 2 Rex Blvd. $115,000. 7 Rex Blvd. $55,500. 957 Athalia Ave. $15,000. 1421 Graham Ave. $137,000. 602 McKee Ave. $8,000. 32 Shaw Drive $16,120. 6 Anderson Court $84,900. 1019 Grant Ave. $49,900. 8 Merando Drive $4,111 by sheriff’s deed. 118 Pacific Blvd. $19,500. 814 Chess St. 701 E. Main St.

of Pittsburgh

$30,000. $6,500.

For All Your Real Estate Needs

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HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

Finleyville Community Center Social Events and Banquet Hall (Seating for up to 120!) For hall rental information, call 724-348-6567

0DULRQ $YH ‡ )LQOH\YLOOH 3$

Seller

Buyer

MONONGAHELA Richard D & Carol S Walters Revocable TrKeith and Patty Lester William Lytle Richard Miller III and Denise Miller NEW EAGLE Brett Barbero

Scott Miller

NORTH BELLE VERNON Tommy Mavrikas Danielle Pulgino Mary Dupler Scott and Samantha Tobias Estate of James McClain Constantine Rentals LLC John Quinto et al. Kim Weeks Estate of Irene Chambers Eric and Lynn Braden Secretary Housing & Urban Development Bank America

Address 828 Marne Ave. 231 Vine St. Main St.

Price $10,000. $47,562. $3,000.

803 Blind Lane $70,000. 823 Graham St. $80,000. Unknown Address $31,000. 942 Henry St. $75,000. 401 Jefferson St. $95,000. 636 Speer St. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $65,044).

NORTH CHARLEROI Sheila Amati Lee Hall

Sarah Anthony Mark McClain

421 Conrad Ave. 526 Fourth St.

$42,500. $65,000.

NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP Timothy Heath Lisa Anne Pochiba

Cartus Financial Corp. Richard Buzard and Shana Ghelarducci

143 Dyers Stone 21 Sugar Run Road

$430,000. $210,000.

PLEASANT HILLS Douglas Childers John Taucher II estate et al. Raymond Anthony Rudolph Patrick Johnson Goshen Mortgage REO LLC LSF8 Master Participation Trust Lori Haeck Beau McCorry Raymond Betler William Hain II Estate of Emma Schwartz

Daniel and Jennifer Budday Joseph Dolata III Daniel and Sheila Collins Jeffrey Banahasky Christopher Miller John and Christine Laslo Michael and Karen Bown Djuradj and Milica Surla Peter and Angela Stanley Julia Sell JIMEL LLC

66 Dutch Lane Route 51 384 W. Bruceton Road 185 Winifred Drive 396 Cavan Drive 154 Orchard Drive 141 Picture Drive 429 Arbor Lane 506 Brushglen Lane 332 Delano Drive 245 Lynn Drive

$220,000. $350,000. $158,500. $135,000. $63,231. $78,900. $342,000. $122,000. $130,000. $113,000. $68,000.

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HOME & GARDEN

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Frank Estes IV Robert Gallagher Clarence Schultz

Eliana Latterman 241 Constitution Drive ThAccEnWIN LLC 208 Old Lebanon Church Road Greenbriar Investment Co. LLC 269 W. Bruceton Road (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $110,090) by sheriff’s deed.

ROSTRAVER Benjamin Allen

Carrie Livingstone

Price $174,900. $77,250. $28,000

Gary Spence Loretta Mitchner Joseph Barnhart Jason Jones Aubree Evangelist Zeus Universal LLC Denise Pike Jose De Los Santos Gerald Robinson Jr. Charles Amore Bank America Estate of Darlene Emerick Lori Frank Rick Dwayne Andrews

Unknown Address $1,289 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $7,828) by sheriff’s deed. National Residential Nominee Services In 515 Galileo Drive $235,000. Richard and Diane Nonack 820 Hollyberry Lane $350,000. Carrie Livingstone LR 64259 $1,357 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $45,299) by sheriff’s deed. Cody Inman 131 Lynnwood Ave. $95,000. Patricia Hovan 223 Plainview Drive $35,000. Michael and Sally Smor 208 Rolling Hill Farm Drive $219,571. Christine Martin Route 981 $13,958 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $46,915) by sheriff’s deed. Carrie Livingstone 110 Sunny Lane $1,289 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $3,889) by sheriff’s deed. Brian and Amy Dinello Wildwind Drive $6,100. David and Laurie Lash 1156 Willowbrook Road $25,000. Russell Musgrove Unknown Address $6,356 by sheriff’s deed. Michael Sayre 339 Aitken Ave. $92,000. Tammy Fretz 828 Fellsburg Road $80,000. John and Susan Fafalios 325 Nazareth Drive $10,000. Ladani Ukani Hospitality LLC S. SR 51 $33,000. Helen Carroll 606 Fayette St. $80,000. David Corwin 636 Hamilton Ave. $100,000. Robert and Sasha Opel 104 Valley View Drive $290,000. Iron & Steel Realty Investments LLC Willowbrook Road $25,000. Daniel and Angel Scapellato 310 Salem Church Road $82,474. Michael Tetteris Jr. and Angela Tetteris 516 Skyline Drive $235,000. David and Rachelle Florian 152 Valley View Drive $267,000.

WEST ELIZABETH Derek Wright

Jeffries Integrated Solutions LLC

Keith Sauter Jr. Richard Cameron et al. Benjamin Allen Louise Grace James McBeth First Line Development Two Inc. E. Lewis Benjamin Allen

800 Fifth St.

$100,000.

WHITEHALL John Krieger Elizabeth Streno 75 Hennig Drive $149,900. Michael Stephans Jr. Kenneth and Brittini Ruffing 4131 Highgrove Road $142,000. Pinnacle Pointe L.P. NVR Inc. Lantern Hill Drive $214,000. Ernest Rondinelli et al. Stephanie and Robert Torchia 101 Woody Crest Drive $117,000. Jason Glowacki Gregory Kaplan and Jessica Wachinski 5115 Baptist Road $145,000. Robert Ravita Prakesh and Kumari Khanal 4788 Barone Drive $151,500. Mary Goldstrohm William and Donna Devlin Barnett 5310 Caste Drive $208,000. Champioin Mortgage Corp. Robert Kircher Jr. et al. and Christine Kircher 1024 Dallett Road $90,000. Cynthia Passarell Brandon Renzi 1520 Dunluce Drive $37,000. Marian Powney William and Judy Ann Alexy 108 Paddock Lane $219,900. Paul Falkenhan Susan Weis 5153 Azalea Drive $234,000. IHA Properties Patricia and Timothy Otroba 4527 Clairton Blvd. $40,000. Gary Bugielski K3 Realty LLC E. Willock Road $54,000. Linda Opferman David Kay 5114 Earlsdale Road $158,000. Mark Jeff Pruszenski Moore & Manuel LLC 510 Marylea Ave. $97,000. Thomas Taylor Bhawani and Chandra Adhikari 518 Marylea Ave. $167,900. Ryan McNamara Kyle and Samantha John 4211 McKee Drive $145,500. Kevin Jones Donald Stanford Jr. and Eileen Stanford 4985 Meadow Park Drive $235,000. Ryan Hussak Angela and Eric Zuhl 5305 Orchard Hill Drive $136,500. John Dowd Jeanne Siar 4813 S. Emblem Drive $190,000. Jennifer Karabinos Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 212 Streets Run Road $4,771 by sheriff’s deed. Mary Alice Fraticelli Adam and Sonja Kress 4843 Baptist Road $127,500. Donald Zeiler Chandra and Indra Dhaurali 4769 Beall Drive $161,000. Thomas Ryan trustee Deborah Steinmetz 1047 Duncan Lane $255,000. Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trusteeGeoffrey and Joanne Giancola 4673 Echo Glen Drive $81,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $172,874) by sheriff’s deed. David Bauer Brandon and Heidi Adam 5345 Greenridge Drive $112,000. Christopher Capcara Scot and Aimee Zundel 4143 Highgrove Road $203,500. Dinka Cottone David and Joan Luxbacher 5119 Morningrise Drive $140,000. HSBC Bank USA NA trustee Joshua Donehue 1116 Prospect Road $110,000. Diane Collins et al. Christopher and Alyssa Brown 3415 Reiland St. $100,000. George Pry Gregory Pry 27 Shadow Drive $94,600. Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>. Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.

This month’s RealSTATs transactions for the following communities can be found on our website: BALDWIN BOROUGH BETHEL PARK BRENTWOOD JEFFERSON HILLS PETERS TWP SOUTH PARK UNION TOWNSHIP

Visit our website www.messengerpaper.com to view these transactions

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

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School News...School News Washington’s Bradford House Museum Announces Poster Contests on Western PA History The Bradford House Museum is again sponsoring two poster contests open to all middle and high school students in Washington and Greene Counties on a topic of Western Pennsylvania history, 1750 – 1850. Students are required to construct a presentation on a standard size trifold display board, register online during January and February, and deliver the project to the Bradford House in early March. For complete rules, hints for developing a project, and a list of possible topics, go to www.bradfordhouse.org and look under the ‘education’ tab. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top five entries in each division: middle school (grades 5-8) and high school (grades 9-12). Winning projects will be displayed at the Symposium on 18th Century Life and Customs in Western Pennsylvania on March 18, 2016. Email questions to bradfordhouseshop@hotmail.com.

Madonna Catholic Regional School Announces First Quarter Honor Roll of 2015-2016 School Year Grade 8 Highest Honors - Amara Behanna, Jennie Bostich, Jake Caldwell, Morgan Motycki, Shane Simpson, Frank Startare High Honors - Mickey Falappi, Elaina Serrao Honors - Natalie Glaneman, Jillian Scherer, Jessica Tomosky Grade 7 Highest Honors - Rebecca Grandinette High Honors - Clayton Rosensteel Honors - Jacob Brigode, Jesse Sala, Paige Sands Grade 6 Highest Honors - Aleah Siwula, Chelsea Sala High Honors - Brody Daerr, Amy Petersen, Chloe Pordash, Gabriella Serrao, Sophia Startare, Savana Rinchetti Honors - None

California University earns Military Friendly® Title for Sixth Year Veterans Affairs Office at Cal U supports service members, veterans and their families California University of Pennsylvania again has been designated a Military Friendly® School by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs and Military Spouse magazines. The designation provides service members and their families with transparent, data- driven ratings about post-military education and career opportunities. Cal U has received the recognition each year since 2010. Institutions compete for the Military Friendly® School title by completing a survey of more than 100 questions in 10 categories, including military support on campus, graduation and employment outcomes, and military spouse policies. Survey responses are scored against benchmarks across these key indicators of success. In addition, methodology is reviewed and data is tested independently with a goal of promoting transparency while advancing best practices to support military students. “At Cal U, ‘military friendly’ is more than an award — it’s how we operate every day,” said Robert Prah, the University’s director of Veterans Affairs. “Through our Veterans Affairs Office, our Veterans Club and special events throughout the year, we demonstrate our commitment to welcoming military members and veterans to campus, and helping them to succeed.” Colleges, universities, community colleges and trade schools across the country that are eligible for the Military Friendly® designation. “Post-secondary institutions earning the 2016 Military Friendly® School award have exceptionally strong programs for transitioning service members and spouses,” said Daniel Nichols, Chief Product Officer of Victory Media and Navy Reserve veteran. “Our Military Friendly® Schools are truly aligning their military programs and services with employers to help students translate military experience, skills and training into successful careers after graduation.” Note: This portion below would look nice in a text box inset like a picture with the article.

How Cal U Serves Cal U’s Office of Veterans Affairs is a resource center for military veterans, eligible dependents and active-duty service members in all branches of the military, National Guard and reserves. The office serves students who are attending oncampus classes or studying through Cal U Global Online, the University’s worldwide online learning community. In addition to providing day-to-day support and an active Veterans Club, Cal U has welcomed active-duty service members as they strive to qualify for the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge; honored veterans each fall with a display of personalized banners recognizing their service; and offered an annual scholarship opportunity.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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Mon Valley CTC Students Plan ‘Slap Me Silly’ Charity Event To start the month of November off, Mon Valley CTC students held a ‘Slap Me Silly’ hockey contest to raise money for The Ronald McDonald House. Mr. Hennehan, director, suited up in hockey goalie gear and graciously took hockey slap shots from students all day long. Any student who made the shot was put into a drawing for local gift cards. This fundraiser raised $304. The school will be collecting pop tabs until April for the Ronald McDonald house and will hold a hoagie sale in December to make care packages for the patients at our local house.

Mon Valley CTC Participates in All-Day Competition

On Wednesday, November 18, 2015, 12 students from the Mon Valley CTC cosmetology program competed in the ‘Dare to Express Yourself’ competition at Douglas Education Center. This was an all-day competition, competing against other CTCs from the area. Pictured in the photo are : (l - r): Ashley Wozniak, 3rd place in the nail competition; Jessica Davis; Taylor Conn; Jamera Kenney, 2nd place in the nail competition; Alonna Carlin; Alaina Telegraphis, 1st place in the nail competition; Maddy Kennedy; Brianna Stout; Cassady Bowman-Stump; Jessica Weiss; Gabrielle Murray; and Catie Hiles.

Mon Valley CTC Students Attend Leadership Training Mon Valley CTC SkillsUSA students attended the District 9 Fall Leadership Training at Seven Springs Mountain Resort November 4-6, 2015. There were 26 students from MVCTC among the 350 that attended. The group was led by their Conference Officer Sergent at Arms, Jessica Weiss, a senior in the cosmetology program. While at the conference, the students had various leadership training workshops to prepare them for leadership in workforce. Mon Valley left the conference with a lot to be proud of - the students showed the rest of the district who had the most spirit by bringing home the 2015 Fall Leadership Spirit Award. They also placed in various competitions.This leadership team made a bet with the administration that they would do the whip/nae nae in front of the entire student body when they won the overall award. Mr. Hennehan, director, and Mr. Lucia, prinicpal, danced their hearts out on Friday, November 13 during an assembly to hold up their end of the deal. The SkillsUSA students are now preparing themselves for the district competitions, which will be held at Somerset CTC in December.

Negotiations Continue in Peters Township Teacher Strike Negotiations took place on Monday, November 16 between the Peters Township School District and the Peters Township Federation of Teachers (PTFT). This was the 20th session between the two parties since negotiations began in March, and the third since the teacher strike began on October 28, 2015. The district's 285 teachers have been without a contract since their last five-year pact expired Aug. 31. The meeting began with a formal (tabled) offer from the PTFT that included: • Removal of the request for a stipend related to class size • Raises of $2,300 for all teachers annually for the life of the contract The PTFT agreed to an increase in healthcare contributions of $5/month annually for individual coverage over the life of the contract and $10/month annually for family coverage with a $15 increase in the final year. (current contributions are $70/mo. for individual coverage and $145/mo. for family coverage) • Removed request for full health care coverage for retirees; instead, proposed an increase to the District’s contribution to the annual retirement healthcare stipend • A reduction of contract steps from 17 to 16 (current jump step is a nearly $40,000 raise in a single year at step 17) • Maintain a 7.5 hour work day • Maintain a 193 day work year • Consistent with their October offer, the PTFT also requested increases in stipends for mentor teachers, facilitators and extra duty pay, compensation for years of service, training rates, and severance pay. This was followed by a new formal offer from the District that included

the following: • Maintain the 193 day work year, including the PTFT request for additional clerical time • A reduction in the requested work day from 8 hours to 7.75 hours. (The District intends to use the additional time to extend the lunch period for elementary students.) • The District also agreed that reasonable efforts would be made to keep class sizes to a level that is appropriate for the subject or grade level involved. Consistent with previous offers, the District maintained the following financial points: • Raises of $500 annually for teachers on steps 1-16; $200 annually for Step 17 • Healthcare contributions of $110/mo. (first year) to $150/mo. (fifth year) for individual coverage • Healthcare contributions of $185/mo. (first year) to $345/mo. (fifth year) for family coverage. The offer also includes multiple health plans that allow employees the option of a lower monthly contribution through a plan with a deductible and co-pays. The PTFT did not provide a response to the offer by the District, and the session was ended by the mediator. “Our financial realities weigh heavily on all of us,” said Superintendent Dr. Jeannine French. “Our goal is to get our students and teachers back in the classroom, but we cannot agree to a contract that is fiscally irresponsible to our community and the future of this District.” The District requested another meeting date. It will be posted on the District website as soon as it is available.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Thomas Jefferson High School Hosts World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh International Student Summit

Pictured are (l-r): Gina Kilmer, Tom Sanderson, Lisa Sydeski, and Aleah Bousquet

Thomas Jefferson High School hosted the foreign policy event titled “Prioritizing America’s Future: Presidential Candidates’ Views of National Security and Foreign Policy” on Thursday, November 5, with four local schools in attendance, as well as five additional schools participating via video conference. Each school was assigned two presidential candidates for whom they would serve as their national and foreign policy advisors. The goal of the event is to educate and engage students on the current slate of eighteen presidential candidate policies and their stance on foreign affairs and national security. According to Thomas Jefferson High School’s social studies teacher, Lisa Sydeski, “The event was a great way for our students to cultivate their knowledge of global issues and become informed voters in the upcoming presidential election, 2016. Their active participation allows them to investigate the world, recognize different political perspectives regarding the presidential candidates, and bring awareness to foreign policy issues in order to better understand the world beyond just the walls of Thomas Jefferson.” Fox Chapel Area High School, Seneca Valley Intermediate and Senior High Schools, Thomas Jefferson High School and Upper St. Clair High School were onsite participants. Del Valle High School in Austin, TX, Fannett-Metal Middle/High School in

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Elizabeth Forward Music Teachers Put On a Show to Raise Money for Scholarships By Michelle Taylor On November 4th, music teachers from the Elizabeth Forward School District collaborated together to bring their 2nd annual concert to the public. The recital was to help fund the music scholarship program within the district. Music teachers participating included Music teachers from the EF school Chris Thomas, Margret Dennis, Mark district get into a musical groove. Maurer, Steve Spang, Lisa Spang, Kristy Ochs, Ben Cook, and Angie Milliren. The admission to this event was free, but donations were accepted. Last year, this event brought in $1,500, enough to fund three scholarships. This year, the event raised $875, but the district is still expecting donations from each of the school buildings. The concert included songs from pop, rock, jazz, classical, and other musical genres. While no students were musically involved with the recital, students from Chris Thomas connects the Tri-M Music Honor Society helped in the producwith his guitar while tion of the concert. performing his song.

Elizabeth Forward School District Honors Local Veterans with Ceremony By Michelle Taylor Jake Clark, TJHS student presenting at the event

Willow Hill, PA, Hampton High School, Keystone Oaks High School and North Hills High School participated via video conference. Thomas Jefferson senior and 2015 Global Travel Scholar Aleah Bousquet welcomed Amiena Mahsoob, Director of Education Programs at the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, who served as moderator for the event. Students listened to guest speaker Tom Sanderson, who is a director and Senior Fellow with the Transnational Threats Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He investigates terrorism, transnational crime, global trends, and intelligence issues. Lisa Sydeski, along with Suhail Baloch, Technology Director for West Jefferson Hills School District, coordinated the event with the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh.

On Wednesday, November 11th, Elizabeth Forward School District celebrated Veterans Day with a ceremony honoring the local veterans of the area. The district has been honoring this tradition of Veterans Day for the last seven years. Kids were asked to decorate stars with Stars that the students decorated in veterans’ names on them so that they can honor of local veterans decorated the be hung on the walls of each building walls of the schools. within the district. There are 2,479 students within the district, and there are at least 100 stars hung in the middle school with an anticipated 800 stars total to be hung in all buildings in the district. The ceremony consisted of music from the 7th and 8th grade symphonic band, 7th and 8th grade strings orchestra, 7th and 8th grade chorus, snare drum, readings and the playing of “Taps.” Guest speakers included Blaine Hill VFW Post 7632, American Legion Post 553, Magistrate District Judge Beth Scagline Mills, Captain Rick Elster LCDR, and Captain Joseph Ladistic. There was a Patriots Pen essay contest and the winners were announced. For first place, Natalie A. Brogna won the award, in second place was Natalie G. Glessner, and in third place was Anna M. Resnik. Lastly, there was a video shown, paying respects to the veterans who have passed. Mrs., Trisha Martell, principal of the middle school, and Ms. Natalie Meelieb, counselor at the middle school, say they chose this patriotic holiday to celebrate with the kids because the kids do not have this day off every year, as opposed to Memorial or Labor Day. This year, 50 guests attended, and 25 were veterans.

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Clairton School District Salutes our Veterans

Save the Dates! December 15 at 12:30pm Clairton Elementary will host its Annual Holiday Concert for grades K-5. December 16 Clairton City School District will have a 10 a.m. start time. December 16 - Clairton Middle/High School Holiday Concert will be held at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium, featuring elementary band, middle/high school band, chorus, and honeybears. December 17 - Title I Parent/Community Advisory Council December Meeting.

‘Expect Respect’ Group Travels to South Allegheny HS to Promote Awareness

Clairton Homecoming Crowns Jaquela Gaynor as Queen

Congratulation to 2015 Homecoming Queen, Jaquela Gaynor!

Pharmacy School, Athletes Team Up to Teach Clairton Children about Asthma and Healthy Lifestyles More than 400 grade school kids from the Clairton School District learned about asthma and healthy lifestyle choices during a series of fun activities on Friday, Nov. 13. This collaborative effort of Duquesne University’s Mylan School of Pharmacy and the Department of Athletics, the Allegheny Health Network, the American Lung Association, Stay Positive Clairton and the Clairton School District is sponsored by the Jefferson Regional Foundation. “Our primary goal is to identify undiPictured are Pittsburgh Steeler agnosed or uncontrolled disease, such Jesse James and fourth graders as asthma, and to provide education and Chyna Stowers and Mary Janetka. skills for asthma and cardiovascular disease control and prevention,” said Dr. Jennifer Elliott, assistant professor of pharmacy practice at Duquesne University, who is conducting the Surveillance of Asthma in our Region’s Schoolchildren (STARS) study in partnership with Dr. Deborah Gentile from the Allegheny Health Network. Duquesne University’s 55 student pharmacist volunteers ran eight different health education games, serve as team leaders, and assist with the health screenings. Clairton high school athletes and students shadowed the Duquesne athletes and pharmacy students so that they can help and make connections. The event concluded with a visit from Pittsburgh Steeler side receiver Jesse James.

To celebrate Veterans Day, Clairton Elementary and Clairton Middle/High School made cards, poems, letters, and posters to honor the veterans. These were given to Clairton's VFW and American Legion to celebrate the veterans and those that currently serve the United States of America.

Mrs. Shaw and the ‘Expect Respect’ student group traveled to South Allegheny High School on November 20th to collaborate with their student group in an effort to raise awareness about teen dating violence and to promote healthy relationships. Pictured are Clairton High School and South Allegheny High School members of Expect Respect

Clairton Elementary Plans Parental and Community Involvement Activities

2nd grader Malcolm Calloway Jr. works on his "Donut How Much I Love You," with his father, Army Staff Sergeant/Recruiter Malcolm Calloway.

Kindergarten student Noah Williams and mom Courtney Lindsey work on the muffin project "Things we like to do together."

In September and October, Clairton Elementary hosted two parental involvement events – ‘Donuts for Dads’ and ‘Muffins for Moms.’ Clairton Elementary hosted the 1st Annual Donuts for Dads on September 23rd in the elementary cafeteria. Over 150 "dads" attended. The event was sponsored by the Clairton Chapter of the National Honor Society and the Title I Parent/Community Advisory Council. The day was a celebration of "dads" in the lives of Clairton Elementary students. Muffins for Moms was held on October 27th in the Clairton High School Gymnasium. Over 300 "moms" attended. Each student was permitted to bring one important female in their lives to the breakfast. The event was sponsored by the Title I Parent/Community Advisory Council. During the event other items were discussed such as attendance and school pictures. To conclude the event there were prizes raffled off, all donated from the Education Partnership and JoAnn Fabrics.

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Library News BALDWIN BOROUGH PUBLIC LIBRARY 41 Macek Dr. #115, Pittsburgh, PA 15227 412-885-2255 Balwinborolibrary.org Technology and Marketing Librarian: Pam Calfo

Free Family Movie Matinee – Saturday, Dec. 5 @ 1:30 p.m. FREE NEW RELEASE family movie complete with bottomless popcorn and lemonade! Kids can bring their own pillow, sleeping bag, blanket or stuffed friend! Registration requested. Snow Queen 2 – PG – 104 min. Paws for a Cause with Animal Friends – Saturday, Dec. 12 @ 11 a.m. We welcome Animal Friends back to the library! Each month, children have the opportunity to meet at least one approved literacy animal, hear stories, read aloud to the visiting animal, and participate in a literacy activity. Readers of all ages and abilities are welcomed! Because all visits are done on a volunteer basis, we are asking all participants to bring along one item from the Animal Friends Supply Drive list on our website. Registration requested. Family Gingerbread House Night – Tuesday, Dec. 15 @ 6:30 p.m. The whole family can enjoy a night of building, creating and decorating their own holiday gingerbread house. Please bring one can of icing and one bag of candy to share with the group. We will provide cartons, graham crackers, holiday music and hot chocolate! Registration required. Merry Grinchmas – Saturday, Dec. 19 @ 10:30 a.m. Help the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes this holiday season with some Grinch games, snacks, crafts and a “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” skit during this fun holiday family event! Bring your cameras along just in case “you know who” in the jolly red suit shows up! Registration required. For a complete list of programs, please visit baldwinborolibrary.org or call the library at 412-885-2255.

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

Donora Public Library will be closed the following days: Dec. 24th, Dec. 25th, Dec. 26st, and Dec. 31st. Story Time: Fridays at 11 a.m. This month, Miss Angie has a lot of great books and activities for the children, and her theme is about winter and the holiday season. Story time will not be held on the 25th; it will be moved to Wednesday, December 23rd. Wednesday, December 30th we will also have story time at 11 a.m. due to our being closed Friday, January 1st. Lego Club - We will be meeting the second Saturday of the month. Bridge Club - We will be meeting the second Thursday only this month at 3 p.m. due to the Holiday. Knit and Crochet Club - Are you cold? Come join us in making scarves and mittens. We will be meeting the second Thursday only at 5:30 p.m. due to the holiday. Book Club - Our book club will be reading The Paris Wife by, Paula McLain. We will Be meeting the third Thursday of the month at 3:30 p.m.

JEFFERSON HILLS PUBLIC LIBRARY 925 Old Clairton Road. Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412-655-7741 w w w.jeffersonhillslibrary.org PR/ Event Coordinator: Jane Milner

All programs/events are held in the Borough of Jefferson Hills Municipal Center, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills. Register online at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org. Holiday Library closing dates: Thursday, December 24 and December 31; Saturday, December 26; Sunday, December 27 CPR for Family and Friends Tuesday evening, December 8

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This course, taught by the Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Service EMTs and paramedics, is intended for the general public to learn the basic steps necessary to perform hands only CPR. This class includes hands-on practice. Completion of this seminar does not result in receipt of an AHA course completion card. This is a non-credentialed course for the general public. Please register. South Hills Art League to Exhibit at Jefferson Hills Library December 2 – December 31 The South Hills Art League will exhibit approximately 75 pieces of artwork in various mediums at the Borough of Jefferson Hills Municipal Center, second floor, during regular library hours. Most of the pieces will be available for sale. YOGA – Beginners and Intermediate Wednesday evenings, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Saturday mornings, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. December 5, 12, 19 Instructor: Linda Frost 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. Children’s Story Time for Ages 3 and up Thursdays, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. and 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. - December 3 and 10 December 3 - “One World Many Stories” - Come to story time as we celebrate holidays in different countries. Holiday stories, an ethnic craft and a yummy treat will be provided. December 10 - Holiday Party Stories, games, a craft and treat will be part of our festivities. American Girl Doll Program “Meet Samantha” Tuesday, December 8, 5:30-6:30 p.m. K-5th Grade. Come to this special event and make a beautiful Victorian book mark from pressed flowers and enjoy a simple tea. Any student planning to attend this program should register. You do not have to own an American Girl doll to take part in this program.

PETERS TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY 616 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724-941-9430 • www.ptlibrary.org Library Director: Pier Lee Please visit www.ptlibrary.org for a complete list of Library programs for all ages. Family Ornament Night For parents and children Wednesday, Dec. 2 - 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. Township Tree Lighting Sunday, December 6 - 6 p.m. Holiday Craft and Movie Day For grades 6 and up Saturday, December 12 - 1 - 4 p.m. Edible Holiday Treats For children of all ages Wednesday, December 16 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. Holiday Family Movie Night For parents and children of all ages Thursday, December 17 - 6:45 p.m. Teen Cookie Exchange For grades 6 and up Saturday, December 19 -1 - 2 p.m. The library will close at 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 24 and Thursday, December 31. The library will be closed on Friday, December 25 and Friday, January 1, 2016.

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

Movie Afternoon - Rostraver Public Library will host an animated children's film on Saturday, December 5 at 1 p.m. Children attending will also be able to make a holiday-themed craft. Please register in advance. "Introduction to Essential Oils" December 10, 2015 at 6 p.m. Please register by calling the library. Rostraver Book Club – The book club will meet Wednesday, December 9 at 1 p.m. to discuss a holiday-themed book. For more info, please call the library.

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

BENTLEYVILLE LIBRARY 931 Main Street, Bentleyville, PA15314 724-239-5122 w w w.bentpublib.org

Every Monday, Knitting Group meets from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. First Monday of every month, the Historical Society meets at 6 p.m. Every Tuesday, TOPS meets from 5 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. weigh-in 5:30 p.m. – 6:15 p.m. meeting December 16 - Family Craft at 5:30 – 6:30 will make our Ginger Bread House December 16 - Board Meeting 7 p.m. December 17 - Book Club will meet at 6:00 p.m. reading The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore December 23 - closing at 5 p.m. December 24-26 -CLOSED December 28 - Friends of the Library meet at 6:00 p.m. December 31 - CLOSED Note: The library also has tickets; for a $2 donation you get 5 numbers that will work with the PA daily number at 7p.m. drawing on December 30 with a cash payout of $200.

MONESSEN PUBLIC LIBRARY 326 Donner Ave., Monessen, PA 15062 724-684-4750 w w w.monessenlibrary.org Library Director: Dave Zilk a

Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center has copies of the new 2016 Enjoy Coupon Book at the Circulation Desk. They make great gifts, with a whole year of discounts for $30. Preschool Storytime is designed for preschool children and consists of a story and craft each Monday night at 6 p.m. There will be no Storytime on December 7. On December 14: “Christmas Around the World” will be the theme. Preschool Storytime will then resume in February. Storytime in the morning is currently on winter hiatus and will return in April 2016. The annual Holiday Boutique is open from 12-3 p.m. on days the library is open. Merchandise is new or gently used and reasonably priced. Do your holiday shopping at 326 Donner Avenue! Holiday Closings - We will be closed on December 24-26 and

December 31, January 1 and 2 so our staff can spend the holidays with their families. The Mon Valley Genealogy Forum will not meet in December or January. From December 1st through the 20th, for every item that you check out at the Monessen Public Library, you will receive a ticket for a drawing to win a gift basket full of coffee and coffeerelated items. The basket contains two gift cards, two coffee mugs, and assorted blends of coffee.

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

Ligonier Valley resident, Larry Barth, will discuss his new book, Birds, Art & Design, a stunning retrospective of his life’s work, including sculptures from museum exhibits and rarely seen pieces from private collections, on Wednesday, December 2 at 7 p.m. His discussion will emphasize his love of birds and design and how the two fit together. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. Celebrate the winter holidays at the library on Thursday, December 3 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.! Enjoy stories, games, crafts, snacks, and a special visit from the man in red! A $2 donation per child and a half dozen cookies per family is requested (will be collected at the event). PLEASE REGISTER by calling the library. The Conversation Salon will meet Friday, December 4 from 1-3 p.m. The group discusses a variety of topical subjects in a friendly and open-minded atmosphere. Newcomers welcome. The Murder and Mayhem Mystery Book Club will meet Monday, December 7 to discuss Jane and the Twelve Days of Christmas by Stephanie Barron. Newcomers welcome. Bring your holiday spirit and some cookies to share. The Writers Group will meet Tuesday, December 8 at 6:30 p.m. The group provides support and critique for professional and beginning writers in all genres. Bring a sample of your writing to share with the group and an appetizer or dessert. Newcomers welcome.

Pleasant Hills resident and Senior Pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, Brentwood, Eric Riesen, will discuss his new book, A Catechism for the Curious, on Wednesday, December 9 at 7 pm. The book has received significant endorsements from leading theologians and members of the clergy. This is an opportunity for those of any faith or no faith to gain a better understanding of the Christian faith. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. Let your creativity run wild on Saturday, December 12 at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. while you use a variety of edible materials to decorate a pre-made gingerbread house! A $3 donation per house decorator is requested. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Bundle up this winter with a snowflake scarf. Learn to make and assemble this elegant but simple crocheted design on Monday, December 14 at 1:30 p.m. Bring your own sport or lightweight yarn and a size F crochet hook or pay a $4 fee for yarn at the class. Knowledge of single and double crochet stitches is helpful. Registration required by calling the library. Relive the excitement of old-time Radio Theater on Tuesday, December 15 at 7 p.m. when the Pleasant Players Reader’s Theater performs two holidaythemed radio scripts from ‘My Friend Irma’ and ‘Father Knows Best.’ These heartwarming family comedies combine the right touch of humor and Christmas spirit to put anyone in the holiday mood. Join the Book Group on Monday, December 21 at 7 p.m. to discuss Christmas Hope by Anne Perry. Extra copies of the book are available at the front desk. Newcomers welcome. Learn to play canasta, the rummy game that swept the country in the late 1940s and 1950s, on Thursday, November 12 at 6:30 pm. White gloves, hats and ties not required.

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

Teen Advisory Group Wednesday Dec 2 @ 6 p.m. Join the teen advisory board. TAG meets once per month to express ideas, organ-

ize upcoming library activities, and suggest new teen programs. They also help to choose library materials, decorate the teen area, and compete other projects in the library. TAG members can meet new friends, enjoy pizza and earn community service hours! Registration required. Cloud Storage with Onedrive Wednesday December 2 @ 7 p.m. Calling all Microsoft fans: You will sign up for a free cloud service through your Microsoft Account, and learn the basics of sharing and storing your documents and photos on Microsoft’s Onedrive. An email address is required for this class (if you need help setting up an email address, please come to the library prior to class time, and a staff member will assist you). Registration required. American Girl Book Club Saturday December 5 @ 11 a.m. The American Girl Doll Book Club will meet and discuss a different doll and her book each month. Books are available at the circulation desk. Each month we will have a craft, play a game and have a book themed snack. This program is recommended ages 7 to 10. Registration required. Move and Groove Storytime: HOLIDAY EDITION! Monday December 7 @ 7 p.m. This storytime will focus on music and movement. Children will dance, use scarves, rhythm sticks, egg shakers, musical instruments, bubbles, and parachute. No registration required. Family Ornament Night - Monday December 14 @ 7 p.m. Make special ornaments with the whole family for the holidays. Add some sparkle to your holidays and your holiday gift giving! Registration Required. Christmas with Chaplin: A Musical Presentation Tuesday December 15 @ 1 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with everyone’s favorite “Little Tramp” – Charlie Chaplin! In 2011, the Pittsburgh Symphony asked pianist and composer Tom Roberts to compose new scores for two of Chaplin’s early masterpieces while with the Mutual Film Corporation. Mr. Roberts will screen both film shorts with his own instrumental scores and give a presentation about Charlie Chaplin that is anything but silent! In addition, we’ll have holiday songs and a light lunch courtesy of our South Hills Community Connect sponsors! FREE - Registration required. Space is limited.

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SPORTS BG’s Gymnastics Gives Dynamite Performance at TNT Meet

Athletic Association Provides Athletic Opportunities to All Kids By Colette Dell

BG’s Gymnastics of Monessen started off their competition season with a “BANG” at the TNT meet, which took place recently in Johnstown, PA. The Platinum Level team took 1st place along with several gymnasts placing 1st on several events and all around. Pictured are (l-r) on the floor: Sarah Bury, Talyn Zilka, Maria Vito, and Hunter Kossar; (l-r) standing: Kayla Desak, Chase Kossar, Gianna Anderson, Kinsey Mihal, and Ashley Vail. The girls will be traveling to Charleston West Virginia for their next meet. Good luck, girls!

Not all kids have the opportunity to participate in athletics because their families simply can’t afford it, but the Make You Think Athletic Association (MYTAA) helps change that. MYTAA is a new organization that began in May of this year and its goal is MYTAA players compete to give underprivileged kids a chance to against Baldwin. play sports, with no money having to be paid by the parents. “We don’t take any money from the parents or the community,” stated one of the founders of the organization, Harry Wynkoop. Currently, 35 kids are participating in the program and there are four baseball teams under MYTAA. There is one team for ages 7 and 8, two teams for ages Harry Wynkoop, founder, 9 and 10 and one for ages 11 and 12. instructing the team. The age groups go up to age 14, but no one of that age group has joined as of yet. MYTAA is also raising money for a boy by the name of Kevin Kenny, who is paralyzed from the neck down. Every time one of the teams scores a run, sponsors donate money to Kevin and his family. Wynkoop emphasized that MYTAA is all about giving the underprivileged a chance, helping them by means of the educational programs the organization has, and teaching them teamwork. “We don’t want any child left out,” Wynkoop said.

Bethel Park's Frank O'Mara Scores Big at Steelers "Punt, Pass and Kick" Contest The Pittsburgh Steelers and Dicks Sporting Goods recently hosted a “Punt, Pass and Kick” Contest at their South Side practice facility for Bethel Park Junior Football. There were 72 kids from Bethel Park who attend the competition. Frank O’Mara, age 8, was the winner of the "passing" portion of the contest in his age bracket. Each of the contest age group winners received a 2015 Pittsburgh Steelers autographed football. “This is one of the best trophies I have ever won," said Frank. In addition to the competition, the Steelers Frank O’Mara provided a tour of their facility, including the locker rooms and weight rooms. At the end of the tour, the young players were treated to a meal and autographs from a few Steelers players. This event provided a great lesson in team building, competition, and friendship. Congratulations, Frank!

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ASK the

GASTROENTEROLOGY

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Q: What is colon and rectal cancer screening? Why do I need it?

A: Colon and rectal cancer screening is a way in which gastroenetrologists check the colon and rectum for signs of cancer or growths (called polyps) that might turn into cancer. It is recommended by the American Gastroenetrology Association to start screening for colon cancer at the age of 50 years. The screening process begins earlier if there is a family history of colon cancer or polyps. Studies show that having colon cancer screening lowers the chance of dying from colon cancer.

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

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

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Q: What is a colonoscopy? A: Colonoscopy is a test which allows your gastroenterologist to evalu-

Deepti Dhavaleshwar, M.D.

ate the lining of the colon. A long flexible scope is introduced through the rectum and advanced through the colon under direct visualization on a monitor. A colonoscopy finds most small polyps and almost all large polyps and cancer. If found, polyps can be removed right away. The procedure is performed comfortably under sedation using anesthesia. If there is no family history of colon cancer or polyps and no polyps are detected, a repeat exam may not be required for the next 7-10 years. In the event of polyp detection or family history, your gastroenterologist will decide an appropriate interval for a repeat examination.

Q: What are my other options for screening which do not involve a scope? What is the new stool DNA test?

A: The “card test” as it is commonly called is a test to detect blood in stool. Cancers and polyps can bleed, so this test is performed to check for blood. Stool tests are the least likely to find polyps as compared to other screening tests. They can give a false positive reading in people who are healthy. If abnormal, your family doctor will recommend a colonoscopy. CT colonography looks for cancers and polyps using a special x-ray and does not require anesthesia or a scope. You will still need to undergo a bowel cleanse similar to a colonoscopy. The test can miss small polyps and if polyps are detected, you may require a colonoscopy for polyp removal. A Stool DNA test checks for genetic markers of cancer as well as signs of blood. It requires that you collect a whole bowel movement and ship it on ice to the laboratory for testing. The test was approved recently in August 2014. It is not widely available and it not clear if it will be covered by insurance. The information on this test is limited and it is not yet clear how it compares to other screening tests. If this test is abnormal, a colonoscopy may be recommended. Deepti Dhavaleshwar, M.D.

S U R G I C E N T E R

100 Stoops Drive Suite 320 Monongahela PA 15063 724-483-4150

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Classifieds

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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

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--------- AUTOMOTIVE ---------2000 Ford Tarus approx 97,000 miles, runs good, clean. $1500 Firm 412-551-6954 ________________________________________________ 2007 Chevy Malibu, V6, 84,255 miles, very good condition 724244-4862 ________________________________________________ 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. 412-4626108 ________________________________________________

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 1-800-6561632 ________________________________________________ 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 ________________________________________________ GET CASH TODAY for any car/truck. I will buy your car today. Any Condition. Call 1-800-864-5796 or www.carbuyguy.com ________________________________________________ A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER! Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, & support programs. FAST FREE PICKUP - 24 HR RESPONSE - TAX DEDUCTION 855-246-2246 ________________________________________________

of the Month Are you concerned about the potential for an ISIS/terrorist attack here in the U.S.? 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.

-------------- BUSINESS TO BUSINESS -----------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 ________________________________________________

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Vote YES or NO Log on to: www.messengerpaper.com to place your vote. Look for the results in our January issue.

November Results: With the holidays approaching, do you feel that they are already too commercialized? 80% Yes - Having holiday decorations out before Halloween is ridiculous! 20% No - It doesn’t bother me and I like to get a head start with my Christmas shopping

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-------------- 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. ________________________________________________ DELL LAPTOP Computer, excellent condition, superior professional grade performance.Windows 7. Premium software package included. 6________________________________________________ month warranty. $299. 717-653-6314

-------------- EDUCATION -----------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. 1888-734-6711 ________________________________________________

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CLASSIFIEDS

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. ________________________________________________ Christian Home Health Care is hiring home health aides for the Mon Valley. To apply, please call 412-323-0203 X 6115. 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 ________________________________________________ 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 724-348-6565 ________________________________________________

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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 Experienced Hair Dresser Needed FULL or PART Time • 724-344-4656 The path to your dream job begins with a college degree. Education Quarters offers a free college matching service. CALL 1800-375-6219 ________________________________________________ NEW TRUCKS ARRIVING - EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS VAN DIVISION: Runs 48 states, heavy from WI to Philadelphia/ Baltimore/ MD area. Flex home time. 99% No-Touch. Top Pay! Vacation/ 401K/ Vision/ Dental/ Disability/ Health. Require Class A CDL, 2 yrs OTR exp. good MVR, references. Call Ruth/Mike TTI, Inc. 1-800-558-2664 www.TTItrucking.com ________________________________________________ Make $1000 Weekly! Paid in Advance! Mailing Brochures at Home. Easy Pleasant work. Begin Immediately. Age Unimportant. www.HomeProfitsBiz45.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.

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--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS ----------Electric Motor Scooter, best offer, 724-929-3944 ________________________________________________ IF YOU USED THE BLOOD THINNER XARELTO and suffered internal bleeding, hemorrhaging, required hospitalization or a loved one died while taking Xarelto between 2011 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1800-535-5727 ________________________________________________ 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. 1-888-836-0780 or Metro-Meds.net ________________________________________________ VIAGRA! 52 Pills for only $99.00! The Original Blue Pill. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery Call 1-888-410-0514 ________________________________________________

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-------------- ITEMS FOR SALE -----------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 724-632-6694. If not home leave a________________________________________________ message and we will call you back. Garment Rack. Commercial grade, collapsible, optional wheels. New in box. $40. Call 724-258-9372 ________________________________________________ Blue Plastic Barrels. Sizes are: 23” diameter x 31” (no lid); 22” x 34”; 20” x 35”. $15 each. Call 724-267-4072 ________________________________________________ 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. Anti-Slip 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 ________________________________________________ Wanted - Working wall mounted urinal for man's bathroom. 724696-5221 ________________________________________________

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December 2015 ————————————————————————————————————————— 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! 412-7602291. ________________________________________________ Old electrical insulators used on utility poles. Glass or porcelain. Call 724-782-0539. ________________________________________________ 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. 724-3487467. ________________________________________________ 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. ________________________________________________ Cash for DIABETIC TEST STRIPS / STOP SMOKING PRODUCTS or GIFT CARDS! Free Shipping, 24hr Payments! Call 1-877-5888500, www.TestStripSearch.com. Habla Espanol. ________________________________________________ EXTRA DIABETIC TEST STRIPS? I Pay Top Dollar! 1 Day Fast Payment Guaranteed Up to $60 Per Box! Free Shipping! www.CashNowOffer.com or 888-210-5233. Get Extra $10. Use Offer Code: Cashnow! ________________________________________________ CASH PAID- up to $25/Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. 1-DAYPAYMENT.1-800-371-1136 ________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ________________________________________________ EXTRA DIABETIC TEST STRIPS? I Pay Top Dollar! 1 Day Fast Payment Guaranteed Up To $60 Per Box! Free Shipping! www.Cashnowoffer.com or 888-210-5233. Get Extra $10: Use Offer Code: Cashnow! ________________________________________________ Cash for unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS or STOP SMOKING PRODUCTS! Free Shipping, Best Prices & 24 hr payment! Call 1855-440-4001 www.TestStripSearch.com 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.

----------- 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 ________________________________________________ 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 724-745-6489. ________________________________________________ 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 724-929-2486 ________________________________________________ AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and othersstart here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204 ________________________________________________ Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks. Try it FREE. Call NOW: 1-888-909-9905 18+. ________________________________________________ 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 ________________________________________________ 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 ________________________________________________ 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 1-800-217-3942 ________________________________________________

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CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1800-864-5960 ________________________________________________ CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. HIGHEST PRICES! Call 1-888-7767771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.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 ________________________________________________ DIRECTV $19.99 month 145+ Channels! FREE HBO Cinemax Showtime Starz! FREE HD/DVR! FREE NFL Sunday Ticket! Local Installers! 1-800-342-1458 ________________________________________________ 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- 800-491-6053 ________________________________________________ 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 ________________________________________________ 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 Junk Cars for Cash ($1,000+) All Cars: Any Condition Cash Paid Same Day! Instant Phone Quote! No Title OK! 1-866-526-6410 ________________________________________________ Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks.Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+ ________________________________________________ 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. Anti-Slip Floors. American Made. Installation Included. Call 800-980-6076 for $750 Off. ________________________________________________

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! ________________________________________________ ACCESS YOUR LAWSUIT CASH! In an Injury Lawsuit? Need Cash Now? Low Rates. No Credit Checks/Monthly Payments. Call Now 1800-568-8321. ________________________________________________ SUPPORT our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need. For more information 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. ________________________________________________ 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 1-800-895-7416 ________________________________________________ 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! ________________________________________________

Priced to sell at only $39,900

Affordable Apartment Living

For further information or to view the property, please call 724-518-7328 or 412-760-2291

Price Reduced!

————————————————————————————————————————— 78 messengerpaper.com ------------ 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. 724929-4189 or 724-929-2486 ________________________________________________ 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 @ 724-941-5737. ________________________________________________

----------- REAL ESTATE --------STOP RENTING! Option To Buy! Rent To Own. No Money Down! No Credit Check! Call Now 1-877-395-1291 ________________________________________________ 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. ________________________________________________ COOPERSTOWN LAND LIQUIDATION! 10 acres - $29,900 Priced 70% BELOW MARKET! Woods, utils, twn rd, private setting just 7 miles from Village! Terms avail! 888-431-7214 ________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

Mohawk Valley Hobby Farm - 22 acres - $149,900 4 BR, 2 BA farmhouse, horse barn, nice views, Beautiful setting just off the NY State Thruway, 40 min West of Albany! Call 888-738-6994 for more info ________________________________________________ SO. ADIRONDACK FORESTLAND. 40 acres - $69,900 Lake rights, stream, only 3 hrs NY City! Twn rd, utils! Terms avail! Call 888-4958733 ________________________________________________ MONTANA, WYOMING, New Mexico acreage starting at $485/acre. Owner financing O.A.C. Building sites, roads, views, elk, natl forest! 1800-682-8088 www.rmtland.com ________________________________________________

------------ SERVICES -------Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-825-7233. ________________________________________________ LAWN CARE and GUTTER CLEANING Call Cory. 412-715-6778. Free estimate. Honest, Hardworking, and Reliable! ________________________________________________ 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 ________________________________________________ CARPET REPAIRS. Restretches, Patches, Installation. Small job in Rental Specialist. 25 years experience. Leave Message 412-6518503 ________________________________________________

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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, 724-787-7030 (24 hrs a day/7 days a week), email stan@seniorhelpfree.com or visit www.seniorhelpfree.com. 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: 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. ________________________________________________ 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 ________________________________________________ FURNITURE RESTORATION. Refinish or paint your vintage pieces! Bring your keepsake piece back to life! 724-747-5200 ________________________________________________

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 December 12)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger. What community award did the South Park Police Department receive?

When is the spaghetti dinner fundraiser for Matthew Pastorik? What is the name of the new cooking company the opened in Finleyville? 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 November Pizza Puzzler winners! Darlene Hall - Elrama • Elsie M. Kowasic - Fayette County

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!

Do it for the ones you love!

Influenza can make you very sick and even cause death for people in high-risk groups. Protect yourself and those around you.

Get the flu shot — not the flu. 3701 Route 88, Finleyville 724-348-6699 mvhhealthydirections.com Convenient Hours: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed Sunday Lab hours: Monday – Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MM/CL-MVM/9-15