Union Finley Messenger January 2012

Vol. 8, Issue 9

JANUARY 2012

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

Health & Fitness Guide Page 29

INDEX: Places To Go . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Home & Garden . . . . . . 34 Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Ask The Experts . . . . . . . 40 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

FREE! Washington Community Federal Credit Union Opens Third Branch Page 25

School News . . . . . . . . . . 46 Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Kids & Family . . . . . . . . . 49 Entertainment . . . . . . . . . 50 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Food & Dining . . . . . . . . . 55

“ W E ’ R E T H E N E I G H B O R LY N E W S PA P E R �

Union Township • Finleyville • Gastonville • Eighty Four • Nottingham • Peters Township • Venetia • New Eagle • Monongahela • Elrama • Elizabeth • West Elizabeth • Jefferson Hills • Library • South Park

Generations Together: Local Teacher Unites Ringgold Students and Elderly

By Miranda Startare

W

At the December 14, 2011 visit to Havencrest Nursing Center, Ringgold High School students and residents talked and laughed while making Christmas ornaments and signing Christmas cards.

Pictured left to right are: Kathy Cochran (resident in elf hat), Brittany Parnell, Erik DiNardo, Lindsey Bosanac (students), Havencrest Activities Director Kelly Kibler (standing), Barb Trumpie, Carolyn Wallace (residents), Linda Fetchen (Ringgold High School teacher and Generations Together sponsor), Kara Dunmire, and Angela Selby (students).

(

#

&

,-. ,-

( ) * +

&'&

!"#"$#"!%"

/ ,/ /( ) /

" ) 00 ) ( ) (. 1 , ) .2

&'$

!"#"$#"!%"

./!

) 0

! " # $ %% & ' ( ( &

( # ) & ' ( ** # )

& + , # , ( - #

# &

hat began as a six-week program in the 1980s has grown into monthly visits to Havencrest Nursing Center that have lasted for 25 years. That is the story behind a Ringgold High School program, “Generations Together,� created by Ringgold High School teacher, Linda Fetchen.

On the second Wednesday of every month, Mrs. Havencrest resident, Dorothy Fetchen takes 5-6 students to Havencrest Nursing Glasser, smiling at her birthday Center in Carroll Township to socialize with the party on December 16, 2011. residents. The visits are not to entertain residents Mrs. Glasser turned 105-years-old. but to engage with them on a personal level. Over the years, two of Mrs. Fetchen’s family members have been residents at Havencrest, and she witnessed the energy and excitement these visits gave the residents.

During these visits, the students have engaged in various activities with the residents, including: reading newspapers to blind residents, coloring pictures, painting nails, playing cards (poker and euchre, especially), singing karaoke, playing Bingo, wrapping presents, making crafts, etc. During a recent visit, students helped the residents make ornaments and sign Christmas cards.

In addition to the monthly visits, students go to Havencrest for other occasions, such as the residents’ Christmas party. The experience has been rewarding for both the students and the residents, who especially love the annual Spring Prom when students come to Havencrest dressed in their formal attire and dance for the residents. According to Mrs. Fetchen, every year there seems to be one special patient who especially bonds with the students. This year, Dorothy Glasser is that special resident. The students love hearing about her life when she was their age.

Incidentally, Dorothy celebrated her 105th birthday on December 16, 2011.

Mrs. Fetchen also considers the visits to be career exploration for the students because of the numerous professionals they meet there. “Everyone working there has made our students feel welcome and valued.� It seems that everyone benefits when generations are brought together.

————————————————————————————————————————— 2 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

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

LOCAL NEWS

unionfinley.com —————————————————————————————————————————— 3

Finleyville Resident Dubs Marcellus Shale Drilling as the “Downfall” of Many Areas Dear Editor, Peters Township is blinded by temporary types of money, but when done, lots of that money will disappear. Jobs also will disappear, as insurance costs increase when lines are present in and around your property and/or drilling area and will go up 1/4 to 1/2 to cover fires, explosions, or any type of environmental problems (collapsing, toxic dust, toxic water on roads or areas where pipes are run and/or 60 ft. on either side of the lines thereof). Plus, all water will be in danger, and there will be 24/7 noise of continuous drilling and all types of pollution after the fact. Blinding by all sorts of greed will in the end cost these communities during working and hauling and after damages to ground, property, roads, clean-up, etc. are done.

Even without getting any real solid knowledge, they are buffaloed into signing their rights away mostly without an attorney, keyed to the sort of pressures made by the drilling companies that claim everything will come up rosy.

So, we will see in the near future who okayed the Marcellus drilling without getting all the real facts because of the money waved under their noses and thus okayed any and all unseen damages that will occur.

In this case, ignorance is no excuse and these commitments will be the downfall of many boroughs and townships, all for the temporary influx of money made caused by okaying all unseen types of damages and the destroying of grounds because of possible stupidity and greed.

G.E. Smolavich, Finleyville

Resident Believes Government Should Provide Basic Needs for All Dear Editor, The "entitlements" for every human being everywhere should be food, clothing, shelter, and medicine. To the extent that they do not exist, the elected government should legislate to provide them. They are the birth right of every human being. Whether you are a conservative or a liberal, you should be a socialist in regards to these obvious necessities of life.

I am not advocating filet mignon, cashmere clothing, luxury housing or free medicine. But I am advocating government-determined minimums for these basic entitlements. After all, most of us would provide them for a wild animal.

So why can't we do it for ourselves? And we can afford to do so without infringing upon the ambitions and the achievements of capitalist entrepreneurs.

Cutting 20% of the military budget would provide enough money to take care of food, clothing, shelter and medicine for those of us who do not get them. And no kid would go to bed hungry ... not here in America ... in the land of the free, the home of the brave, and the fertile fields of the very rich.

Gene Kuban, Eighty-four, PA

Letters to the Editor can be submitted via e-mail to editor@unionfinley.com or by mail to P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332.

All Letters to the Editor must be signed and must contain the author’s return address and telephone number for verification. Letters will be printed as submitted whenever possible; however, we reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and taste, and to refuse to publish any and all letters received. Letters to the Editor represent the unsolicited opinions of our readers and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Union-Finley Messenger, its owners, editorial board, or writing staff. No compensation is offered for any submission, and the author assumes all responsibility for the accuracy and ramifications of their submission.

®

————————————————————————————————————————— 4 unionfinley.com

January 2012 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

PLACES TO GO . . .THINGS TO SEE. . . STUFF TO DO . . .

JANUARY 2

FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session.

To register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

JANUARY 5

FOOD AND FRIENDS FREE MEAL PROGRAM – the first and third Thursdays each month, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Thomas Presbyterian Church, 1068 Linden Road, Venetia. All are welcome. In the case of inclement weather, call Patti at 724-941-6609.

FAMILY BEDTIME STORYTIME – Pleasant Hills Public Library, 7 p.m. No registration necessary. For more information, call 412-655-2424 or visit www.pleasanthillslibrary.org.

JANUARY 10

JANUARY 13-14

SOUTH HILLS COIN CLUB – monthly meeting at 8 p.m., Bethel Park Presbyterian Church, 2999 Bethel Church Road. The general public is invited. For more information, call 724-984-6611.

STUFFED ANIMAL SLEEPOVER – Pleasant Hills Public Library, 302 Old Clairton Road. Children drop off their stuffed animal at the library on Friday between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and return Saturday morning at 10 a.m. to pick up their “stuffie” and enjoy breakfast and a story!

Please register 412-655-2424.

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

JANUARY 7

TINY TOT REGISTRATION – Ruby Daugherty Dance Studio. A fun coordination, dance and tumbling class for early preschool age children accompanied by an adult or older sibling. For further information, call 724-348-7476.

TEEN TALK – Pleasant Hills Public Library, 302 Old Clairton Road, 12:30 p.m. Students in grades 6-12 come join us for pizza, conversation, games, and laughs. New members welcome! No registration necessary.

JANUARY 9

FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session.

For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast,.net or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

McKee, Board Certified Holistic Health Counselor and certified member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Copies of her cookbook will be available.

JANUARY 11

SOUP TAKE OUT – Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God Motherhouse, 3603 McRoberts Road, South Hills. Orders can be picked up from 3 to 6 p.m. Choices include wedding, potato bacon or chili for $5 a quart with two rolls (or cornbread with chili). Orders must be placed by January 5 by calling 412-885-7232. Craft Shoppe will also be open.

SENIOR LUNCHEONS – Peters Township Recreation Center, 12 – 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish to share. Cathy Pigford from Genealogical Society of SWPA will present.

To register, call 724-942-5000.

JANUARY 12

PT LIBRARY PROGRAM – Fabulous Recipes for Vibrant Health, Peters Township Public Library, 7 p.m., $10 program fee.

Sample delicious foods that promote energy, vitality, and longevity prepared by Janet

JANUARY 14

INDOOR DRIVE-IN MOVIE TIME – Peters Township Recreation Center, 5:30-8 p.m.

For kids ages 3 – 6 years. Kids will design cars and watch a movie from their cars; a small fee will cover craft and snack costs.

Registration deadline is January 9. To register, call 724-942-5000.

JANUARY 15

MON VALLEY COIN CLUB – Charleroi Senior Citizens Center, monthly meeting, 2 p.m. Foreign coins will be the topic of discussion this month. The general public is invited. For more information, call 724984-6611.

BOWLING FUNDRAISER – Legacy Lanes, 5024 Curry Road, Pittsburgh, 2 - 4 p.m. The tickets are $15 and include unlimited bowling and shoes. Door prize, 50/50, and silent auction. Funds are being raised to support several families in their quest to return to Ecuador for a mission trip, including the Seibels of South Park. For tickets, please call Jim or Michelle at 412-655-0219.

CASH BASH

JANUARY 16

FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session.

To register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

JANUARY 17

SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA REGISTERED NURSES CLUB MEETING – 9:30 a.m., Hamilton Presbyterian Church, Bethel Park. Speaker is Heather Martorella, RN, MSN on Updates in Melanoma Treatment. Registered nurses are welcome.

JANUARY 19

RETIRED MEN’S LUNCH GROUP – Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, noon. Julie Evans will present an overview of the scope of child abuse. She will provide tips on what responsible adults

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

unionfinley.com 5 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

can do to help prevent abuse. Lunch costs $6. Attendance is open to all men, who are requested to call 412-655-2000 with number attending.

Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

JANUARY 21

5TH ANNUAL SYMPHONY OF FOOD – Bella Sera Event Venue, 414 Morganza Road, Canonsburg, 6 p.m. Sponsored by WOMEN of Southwestern PA, Inc. The Best Chefs of Pittsburgh join the event for A Parade of Chefs. Four chefs each prepare one of their signature courses. Tickets are $75 (tax-deductible, non-refundable donation). Reservations are required. For tickets, call 724-514-7176. For additional event information, go to www.womenofswpa.org.

JANUARY 27

ANTIQUE APPRAISAL SESSION – Peters Township Parks and Recreation Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Attendees are invited to bring items for verbal appraisals by a qualified antique dealer. Cost is $5 donation per item; limit 6 items. Pre–registration is required by January 16 by calling 724-9425000.

JANUARY 22

SOUTH HILLS TRAIN AND DIECAST SHOW – Library Volunteer Fire Co., 6581 Library Road, South Park, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors (65+) and children for $1. Featuring the Pittsburgh Hi Railers with 18’x32’ O Gauge Layout. For more information, contact John at 412-835-7487.

JANUARY 23

FISH FRY – St Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St., Monongahela, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Also Ash Wednesday, February 22, and all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available. Fish, shrimp, crab cakes, baked fish dinners, fish sandwiches, soups, coleslaw, French fries, fried zucchini strips, homemade desserts, and beverages. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session.

For more information or to register, call

PSYCHIC FAIR – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Avenue, West Mifflin, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Variety of psychics/mediums/tarot card and rune readers and an aura photog-

JANUARY 28

rapher to choose from. Metaphysical items, books, jewelry, and gemstones for sale. For a $5 donation, you will receive a nice lunch.

Stop down and check us out and find out about our spiritual church and psychic development classes and Reiki shares.

JANUARY 30

FREE BEGINNER CLOG DANCE LESSON – 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., offered by Mon Valley Cloggers. Allows the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session.

For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, or email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

FEBRUARY 3

PRINCESS BALL (FATHER/DAUGHTER DANCE) – Peters Township Recreation Center, 6 - 8 p.m. Dinner and dancing to music by DJ Zini, photo ops (extra fee), and more. Couples are not limited to father/daughter; they can be grandfather/ granddaughter, uncle/niece, etc.. Register early, as this event fills fast and space is limited. For more information or to register, call 724-942-5000.

FEBRUARY 13

VALENTINE CANDLELIGHT STROLL ON ARROWHEAD – Peters Township Recreation Center, Shelter 4/Arrowhead Trail, 6 p.m. Stroll Arrowhead Trail, enjoy the brisk winter evening, and have some hot chocolate. Dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight. Registration deadline is February 7.

MARCH 31

BIG BAND DINNER DANCE – Westwood Golf Club near Kennywood Park; doors open at 5 p.m. with a cash bar, a sit-down dinner at 6 p.m., and dancing at 7 p.m.

Hosted by Steel Valley Rotary. Features the 17-piece Graham Grubb Orchestra with vocalist Gerri Hall. Basket auction and a 50/50.Tickets are $40 per person and can be obtained by calling Jack Seckel at 412-6557500, ext. 338. Call early.

SEND US YOUR EVENT LISTINGS Email: news@unionfinley.com

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE & DISCOVER YOUR POTENTIAL! A CLUB DESIGNED TO MOTIVATE NOT INTIMIDATE. 84 Fitness Center is committed to being a quality, family-oriented health club offering Ärst rate service to our members.

We provide an experienced, friendly, motivated team of Ätness professionals dedicated to assisting members in achieving their individual goals and enhancing their overall well-being.

1019 ROUTE 519 · EIGHTY FOUR, PA

We offer: :[YLUN[O ;YHPUPUN .YV\W -P[ULZZ *SHZZLZ 0UKVVY >HSRPUN ;YHJR )HZRL[IHSS -P[ 2PKZ ;HUUPUN

Present this ad to receive a

1 WEEK TRIAL MEMBERSHIP

*HYKPV 9VVT -9,, *OPSKJHYL 2HYH[L >OPYSWVVS :[LHT 9VVT :H\UH 4HZZHNL

724-228-8855

————————————————————————————————————————— 6 unionfinley.com

January 2012 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Best Chefs of Pittsburgh Join Symphony of Food The Best Chefs of Pittsburgh join the 5th Annual Symphony of Food sponsored by WOMEN of Southwestern PA, Inc. on Friday, January 27 with doors opening at 6 p.m. A Parade of Chefs will be held at Bella Sera Event Venue, 414 Morganza Road, Canonsburg. Tickets are $75 (tax-deductible, non-refundable donation).

Reservations are required. For tickets, call 724-514-7176. The event has been a sellout for four years. For additional event information, go to www.womenofswpa.org.

Four fabulous 2011 Pittsburgh Magazine’s Best Restaurant/Chefs will each prepare one of their signature courses. Chefs include Kevin Sousa, Salt of the Earth; Brian Pekarcik, Spoon; Chet Garland, Toast Kitchen & Wine Bar and Rumfish (opening in Bridgeville in March); and Dominic Branduzzi, Piccolo Forno. Chef John Gruner of Giant Eagle’s Market District will provide the luscious appetizers, both charcuterie and passed. Breads will be donated by Hearth Breads. Each chef comes with a litany of fine-dining successes and the recipe for a fun-filled, palatepleasing evening concluding with a luscious Sarris Candies surprise dessert. The Chinese auction, with baskets ranging from $200 to $1,200 in value, will provide the possibility of ending the evening with a pleasant win.

Join Master of Ceremonies, WTAE’s Sally Wiggin, for an evening of entertainment, great food and company, and blow away the winter doldrums.

The Union-Finley Messenger is a proud member of the following organizations:

Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce

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

unionfinley.com 7 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Bunola Volunteer Fire Company Hosts Children’s Christmas Party Bunola Volunteer Fire Company hosted its annual Children’s Christmas Party on Sunday, December 18 from 12:30 to 3 pm at the Bunola Fire Hall in Bunola. Santa was greeted by a full house of children all ready to join in the merriment and festivities. Many door prizes, lots of yummy food, and the company of good friends and family make this small community Christmas event a special treat each year. PHOTOS BY ALICE HARRIS

Brielle Boyce was elated to receive a lovey Angel Bear present from a special friend.

Coin Show in the South Hills Feb 4 & 5 The South Hills Coin Club will hold their 52nd Anniversary Coin Show on February 4 and 5, 2012 at the Crowne Plaza - Pittsburgh South (across from South Hills Village). Admission is free. Door prizes will be given away hourly!

For more info, please call 412-854-4022.

News from the Monongahela Area Library For those looking to swap coupons, or trade tips on saving big at the checkout in 2012, the Monongahela Area Library is the place to be. A new Coupon Club is forming under the leadership of Finleyville resident Oliva Walker. Plans for the coming year are to meet the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the Activity Room of the library. The next meeting will be January 10.

The Monongahela Area Library is holding a “Snuggle Up with a Good Book” basket raffle during the winter months. For only $1 a chance, patrons can try to win a gift basket packed with items designed to make a pleasure out of leisure reading, including a Kindle. Other items in the basket include a plush throw, a variety of hot drinks, and cozy footwear. The winning ticket will be drawn at the community band concert this spring.

For more information, call the library at 724-258-5409.

————————————————————————————————————————— 8 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER—————————————————————————————————————————— LOCAL NEWS

Monongahela Area Library Needs Your Help: A Message From the Board of Trustees

Pastor Bret Furlong and “his kids” carol by candlelight.

Folks begin to gather in the Finleyville Community Center.

Finleyville Light-Up Night: An Intimate Small-Town Celebration

By Paul Chasko

What a great evening! Light-up night in Finleyville was pretty much what you’d expect from the great folks that make up this small community in Washington County. Once the stage and wagon lay-over destination on the trip between Brownsville and Pittsburgh, the community hasn’t lost much of its small-town charm over the years.

The evening began with caroling by candlelight on the lawn of the Community Center led by Pastor Bret Furlong and kids from GoTo Ministries. The caroling was followed by a Christmas pageant put on by local kids and GoTo Ministries. The stage of the Community Center was transformed into a manger setting, and the story of that first Christmas was retold

in scripture readings and song.

After the pageant, Mayor Mike Kutsek telephoned Santa to let him know the kids were patiently waiting for him to appear – and he certainly did. He rode in on one of the Finleyville VFD trucks and handed out treats as he made his way into the community center. There, he listened to the kids’ Christmas wishes, and even a few from the grown-ups. There were hot dogs, warm cider, coffee, and cookies for everyone.

The intimacy of the evening is something special that happens in Finleyville every year prior to Christmas. It was worth being there to take part in a small-town Christmas Celebration. I’m not sure of everyone who had a hand in this event, but they certainly did a marvelous job.

Visit our website at www.unionfinley.com for more photos from this event.

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER Published Monthly by Haniford Enterprises, LLC

Contact us: P.O. Box 103 Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone/Fax: (412) 249-8177 E-mail: news@unionfinley.com The Union-Finley Messenger is published during the last week of the month preceding the issue date.

It is available FREE of charge at over 320 area locations throughout the South Hills and Mon Valley communities.

Subscriptions are also available.

Owner/Publisher Douglas E. Haniford Editor Krista Ramsey Editorial Coordinator Judy Gramm Contributing Writers Ken Askew, J.R. Brower, Jim Caldwell, Colette Dell, Paul Chasko, Andrea Earnest, Mike Ference, William Frankfort, Alice Harris, Charlotte Hopkins, Mandy Withers-Kozlowski, Heather Latorre, Samantha Milton, Lisa Tomosky, Tracy Fedkoe Christen Stroh

The Monongahela Area Library at 813 Main Street in Monongahela is in desperate need of your help in raising funds. What if the lights went off and the doors were locked? The community needs the library. Studies show that the presence of a library drastically increases a community’s economic vitality and quality of life.

Learning is a lifelong experience in which the library plays an integral role. The library places a wealth of information at the fingertips of young students and learners of all ages. Monongahela Area Library wants to remain current as well as continually improve its services. Its computer capabilities, for both patrons and staff, are in need of updating. The library is planning to offer one-card library access in conjunction with others in the county system and wants to provide downloadable books for Kindle and other e-readers.

The Monongahela Area Library is sorely lacking in governmental support. Some communities receive substantial support through their school districts; yet this library receives NONE, – even though the service area encompasses six municipalities in the Ringgold School District. None of the communities served donate a portion of their tax revenues to the library.

Please support our ongoing fund drive generously and encourage the school district and local governments to support our library. Donations can be mailed to Monongahela Area Library, 813 Main Street, Monongahela, PA 15063.

South Hills Model Train and Die Cast Show Is January 22 A model train and die cast show will be held at the Library Fire Company, 6581 Library Road in South Park on Sunday, January 22. At least 50 vendors will sell their merchandise. The Pittsburgh Hi Railers will be in attendance with their 18’ by 32’ O Gauge layout for the children and adults. Doors will be open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Cyd West and her Comfort Catering Service will provide hot food and beverages. A model train-related item will be donated by Andy at Evey True Value Hardware. All proceeds from this raffle will go to the Boy Scouts of America. Admittance is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors (over age 65), and $1 for children. If you want to sell at this event, 12-foot tables are $20 and include a free complimentary gourmet breakfast, courtesy of Cyd West and Comfort Catering. Model train-related clothing (T-shirts, sweatshirts, etc.) will be available for sale. For further information, contact John Wozniak at 412-835-7487 or email coachwozniak@live.com.

Photography Paul Chasko, Alice Harris Marianne Kleppner Scott McCurdy, Ron Pudlowski Director of Sales & Marketing Lisa Tomosky Account Executives: Craig Boytim, Kelly Frost, Charmaine Nebash, Tina Patterson Judi Robbins, Circulation Manager Ken Askew Art Director JMC Graphics, adsjmcgraphics@aol.com (412) 835-5796

Editorial Policy The Union-Finley Messenger publishes community news free of charge.

We welcome the submission of articles, news releases, community announcements, editorials and letters for publication. The Union Finley Messenger will accept information via telephone, e-mail, Fax, or U.S. mail. Articles submitted without the complete name, address and telephone number of the author will not be printed.

All submissions are subject to editing for length, clarity and taste. Photographs will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Deadline for submissions is the 12th day of the month preceding issue date. © Union-Finley Messenger and Haniford Enterprises, LLC.

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

We reserve the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at anytime. The opinions expressed in the Union-Finley Messenger are those of the author, and not necessarily of the Union-Finley Messenger.

For advertising information, call (412) 249-8177 or e-mail news@unionfinley.com

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

LOCAL NEWS

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

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

On Tuesday, December 13, 18 members of the Monongahela Columbiettes Auxiliary met for their annual Christmas party. This year, the party was held at Salatino’s River House Café in Charleroi. Auxiliary President Barb Polaski greeted all members, and the group enjoyed a delicious dinner followed by party games and a gift exchange.

The Columbiettes are a Catholic women’s organization affiliated with the Knights of Columbus. The Monongahela Columbiettes, established in March of 2003, was the first auxiliary in western Pennsylvania. The Columbiettes are a growing organization focused on using the talents and creativity of Catholic women to foster charitable, fraternal, and social purposes. The Columbiettes are a special group of women who display to all people the meaning of Catholicism and sisterhood through acts of charity, hope, faith, and joy. Their theme, “Walk the Path of the Columbiette rainbow, and spread its glow to areas not yet reached,” exemplifies these characteristics in its sisterhood. The group is interested in and actively pursuing expansion.

If you enjoy the challenges and satisfaction of making a difference, and if you want to do more for the church family and community, consider joining the Columbiettes. Membership is open to practicing Catholic women 17 years of age and older. For more information, please call President Barb Polaski at 724-2587167 or Recruitment Chairperson Eileen Donovan at 724-348-6964.

McMurray Art League Upcoming Classes McMurray Art League will offer classes at the McMurray Art League Studio in the McDowell Shopping Center.

The January classes are as follows: January 3 and 10 - Anita Alano, watercolor on birds and animals, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., $30/member/day, $35/non-member/day.

January 18 and 19 - Oil Painting with Barry Jeter, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., $35/member/day, $40/non-member/day.

January 24 and 31 - Jeanne McGuire, figures in watercolor, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., $30/member/day, $35/non-member/day.

Questions or enrollment may be directed to Virginia Swartz at 412-835-8081 or vmswartz@yahoo.com.

unionfinley.com —————————————————————————————————————————— 9

————————————————————————————————————————— 10 unionfinley.com

LOCAL NEWS

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

The North Pole May Actually Be in Finleyville!

By Heather Kelley-Latorre

N N N

"

!

Call (724) 489.0880 and GET

RID of Parking Fees & Gas Prices From Your Daily Commute!

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

Most local folks may not realize it, but Santa lives here! Shh! Don’t tell the kiddos, but 92year-old Joseph Zywan of Gastonville has been the acting area Santa Claus for at least 60 years. He has done many community events, but we found his sleigh parked at the Finleyville American Legion Post 613 this past December. He was there lending an ear to local children and passing out gift bags. The Zoey (age 7) and Addison Mundorff (age 3) Legion has been holding this event for many both find a spot on Santa’s knee. years.

Zywan, who has been their Santa for at least the last 30 years, recalls American Legion members Bill Castor and Bob Jones, both of Finleyville. He has a gentle speak as he humbly and easily quips “anything for the children.� He remembers visiting a sick child “who just would not sleep until seeing Santa.� Zywan went to visit the child in the middle of the night, perhaps 30 years ago, who lived in an apartment where Sunoco now stands.

Clearly his motto and commitment of “anything for the children� has endured.

Hoping to continue the tradition of visitLogan Vickers happily makes his requests to Santa at The American Legion in Finleyville. ing Santa, Legion member John Partezana believes “folks need reminded.� So, “Through the years we all will be together, and if the fates allow,� may you visit Zywan’s gentle Santa-knee next Christmas.

eLoop Partnerships Make Recycling Electronics Easy, Free: Guardian Storage Solutions is Newest Collection Site Local sustainability specialist eLoop, LLC has partnered with area businesses, including Guardian Storage Solutions in Washington, to make recycling of electronic equipment convenient and free for consumers beginning immediately. The announcement comes in advance of the January 2012 implementation of Pennsylvania’s Covered Device Recycling Act (CDRA), which mandates that consumers recycle electronics instead of disposing of equipment in the trash.

Residents and businesses with fewer than 50 employees can drop off unwanted electronic devices at any of Guardian Storage Solutions at 840 Jefferson Avenue, Washington. Please call 724-222-7368 during regular business hours. eLoop will provide secure data destruction and safe, ethical recycling of equipment such as computers, keyboards, televisions, and portable electronic devices.

For more information or for a complete list of area eCycle Centers, visit www.eloopllc.com or call toll-free 877-801-6057.

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

LOCAL NEWS

St. Francis Ladies of Charity ‘Giving Tree’ Project a Huge Success American Legion Post 613 Gives a Big Assist

It takes a village to ensure the success of the Giving Tree Project at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville. Among those who helped make it a success are Bob Jones, Sr., 2nd Vice Commander, American Legion; Alice Hakos, chairperson of the Giving Tree Project; Deacon Vic Slater, St. Francis of Assisi Church; Fr. John Keane, Acting Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi Church; John Koller, Commander Post 613; and Bob Jones, Jr., Adjutant Squadron 613 S.A.L.

By Paul Chasko

To say that the Giving Tree Project at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville was a huge success would be an understatement. Each Christmas, a tree is erected in Finley Hall of St. Francis Parish and is decorated with paper ornaments containing a vague description of some needy child, adolescent or adult. Parishioners pick off the paper ornaments and return an appropriate gift a few weeks before Christmas to place under the tree. This year, it was difficult to find the tree due to the stack of hundreds of brightly colored and wrapped gifts.

This was due in part to the help given by American Legion Post 613 (MorrisonRitchey). The Legion completed their own toy drive and delivered over $1,000 in new toys to the St. Francis Giving Tree Project on Sunday, December 11. The Legion has been doing this now for several years, and we hope they continue.

The gifts were distributed to area needy families before Christmas. The project is sponsored by the St. Francis of Assisi Ladies of Charity, and the current Chairperson is Alice Hakos. She took over the reins from Roseann Laughlin, who ran the project for many years. Time and again, we see great examples of a giving spirit in our community—one doesn’t think of it as being particularly affluent, but these folks always reach out to do what they can.

unionfinley.com 11 ——————————————————————————————————————————

————————————————————————————————————————— 12 unionfinley.com

January 2012 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Elizabeth Borough Light-Up Night Delights All

This young lady was first in line to show Santa her list.

Monika Douglas and Robin Stockton, positioned in front of the lit Borough Christmas tree, handed out many cookies and cups of hot chocolate.

A large crowd lined the streets for Elizabeth Borough’s Light-Up Night, held on December 2 at 7 pm. The arrival of Santa was the high point of the festivities, and a parade and photos with Santa made for a special evening to remember.

PHOTOS BY ALICE HARRIS

Young twirlers with the New Horizons Marching Unit kept everyone entertained with their talents and enthusiasm.

Visit our website at www.unionfinley.com for more photos from this event.

Pleasant Hills Public Library Events Pleasant Hills Public Library, 302 Old Clairton Road, 412-655-2424 Family Bedtime Storytime: Monday, January 9 at 7 p.m.

Preschool Storytime: Tuesdays, January 10, 17, 24, & 31; and February 14 at 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. This program is for children 3 1/2 to 6 years old with a parent or a caregiver. Baby Book Nook: Wednesdays, January 4, 11, 18, & 25 at 10:30 a.m. Infants through 2 years of age and their caregiver are engaged in rhymes, finger plays, songs, and fun. No registration necessary. Tot Time: Thursdays, January 12, 19, & 26 and February 2 & 16 at 10:30 a.m. Children 2 to 3 1/2 years old and their parent or caregiver will participate in fun activities such as finger plays, songs, and stories. No registration necessary. Stuffed Animal Sleepover: Friday to Saturday, January 13-14. Children drop off their stuffed animal at the library on Friday between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and return Saturday morning at 10 a.m. to pick up their “stuffie” and enjoy breakfast and a story! Please register 412-655-2424 or email heywoodj@einetwork.net. Teen Talk: Saturday, January 7 at 12:30 p.m.

Students in grades 6-12.

Peters Township Parks and Recreation Upcoming Events The following events will be held at Peters Township Recreation Center. For more information or to register for these events, call 724-942-5000.

Indoor Drive-in Movie Time Saturday, January 14, 5:30 - 8 p.m. Registration deadline January 9. For kids ages 3 – 6 years. Come to the drive-in! We will design our cars and then watch a movie from them. The movie is free, but there will be a small fee to cover craft and snack costs.

Princess Ball (Father/Daughter Dance) Friday, February 3, 6 - 8 p.m. Enjoy a magical and mystical evening that will include dinner, dancing to music by DJ Zini, photo ops (extra fee), and more.

Come and enjoy an amazing night that your little girl will remember forever.

Couples are not limited to father/daughter; they can be grandfather/granddaughter, uncle/niece, and so on. Register early.

Valentine Candlelight Stroll on Arrowhead Monday, February 13, 6 p.m., Shelter 4/Arrowhead Trail. Bring your family, a friend, or that someone special. Join us as we stroll Arrowhead Trail and enjoy the brisk winter evening. The trail will be lit with luminaries, and after the stroll we will have hot chocolate. Dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight. Registration deadline is February 7.

Senior Crime Prevention University Monday, February 27, 11 a.m. – noon. The Attorney General’s Senior Crime Prevention University (SCPU) educates older Pennsylvanians and their families throughout the Commonwealth on crime prevention. Our goal is to make Pennsylvania's older population aware of the threat of fraud and scams to the elder community, teach them how to avoid being victimized, and to make sure they know to alert local law enforcement when they are concerned about their safety and well-being. The interactive DVD format is engaging and educational.

Senior Luncheons Luncheons are held at the Recreation Center on the second Wednesday of each month from 12 – 2 p.m. We ask that you bring a covered dish and share with others. The second hour we provide entertainment/or lecture. Upcoming dates are January 11, Cathy Pigford from Genealogical Society of SWPA will present, and February 8, Solutions for Seniors/Bingo.

Bowling Fundraiser to Benefit Family on Mission On Sunday, January 15, Legacy Lanes, 5024 Curry Road, will be hosting a bowling fundraiser event from 2 - 4 p.m. The tickets are $15 and include unlimited bowling and shoes. There will be a door prize, 50/50, and silent auction. The funds are being raised to support several families in their quest to return to Ecuador for a mission trip in June 2012. One of the families is Jim, Michelle, Nicole, and Brandon Seibel of South Park. The Seibels were a part of a group of 45 people that went to Ecuador in August 2010. As part of a construction crew, they remodeled an orphanage and built an apartment for a missionary couple.

They also had a medical team that met the medical needs of the people. For tickets, call Jim or Michelle at 412-655-0219.

24-hour Service, 7 Days a Week.

Why wait for more water damage?

Fast Effective “Drain Relief.” We send water away. Quickly, cleanly.

Professional Plumbers. Our skilled techs can solve most any plumbing problem. Like yours!

Water Heaters Repaired or Replaced. Sometimes you want to be in hot water! Get it!

Over 34 solid years of caring service. Let us solve your problem.

PA015266

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

unionfinley.com 13 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

New Police Department Meets With Union Twp Residents

By Paul Chasko

Police Officers and Board Members of the Southwest Regional Police Department (SRPD) attended the December 14 Union Township Neighbor to Neighbor Community Watch (NNCW) meeting for a question-and-answer session after being contracted to provide local police service for UT. Every resident I spoke with, in addition to this resident, was optimistic that UT Supervisor John Smida has a few re-acquiring local police protection was questions for Chief John Hartman a step forward for the township – espeand Officer Steve Schwartz. cially in light of the projected personnel cutbacks in the PA State Police ranks. The UT Board negotiated what it believes is a good contract with the SRPD. It’s a one-year contract that begins January 1 and is renegotiable at the end of the first year. In addition, the contract can be cancelled with 60 days’ notice. As mentioned by SRPD Chief John Dale Hartman, “If you don’t like us, you can fire us.”

Chief Hartman went over the salient points of their coverage with UT and fielded questions from the residents in attendance: The cost to UT will be $40 per hour plus gas for the police cruiser that they’ll provide.

The Twp. has contracted for one eight-hour shift per day, seven days a week, with patrols to be randomly scheduled throughout the day and week.

Their base of operations for UT will be the old police office in the UT building.

UT Supervisor Larry Spahr discusses police coverage with SRPD officers and board members.

Seated is UT resident Rufo Proviano.

Southwest Regional Police Department Chief John Hartman fields questions from residents at the December 14 Union Township Neighbor to Neighbor Community Watch (NNCW) meeting.

Hourly coverage will begin when the officer arrives at there.

PA State Police will continue to respond to 911 calls when SRPD officers are not present in the township. UT residents needing the police should always dial 911.

Chief Hartman introduced Officer Steve Schwartz, who will be one of the primary officers serving UT. The chief disclosed that, “As time goes on, other officers will be cycled through UT so that eventually all of our officers will be familiar with the township.” This is important, as in a critical situation other SRPD officers might be called in from adjoining municipalities. Chief Hartman also mentioned that they have 15 officers and will be hiring an additional 2 officers next year.

The meeting concluded with the NNCW Christmas party. NNCW President Linda Evans announced that there will be no NNCW meetings during January and February. The next meeting will be March 14.

————————————————————————————————————————— 14 unionfinley.com

January 2012 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Monongahela Area Library Says Sheetz Coupon Books are Back!

Monongahela Area Library’s Sheetz Coupon Book fundraiser is back – the books are back in stock. Don’t you need a little something for a teen or college student for the holidays – a thank-you or a stocking stuffer? How about for someone in your office? Pick one of these books up at the library. The $10 book contains coupons for the following: Free M•T•O® item • Free Sheetz Donut, Buy One Get One Free M•T•go!® Sandwich or Parfait Free M•T•O® Breakfast Sandwich Free Bag of Fryz • Free Hot Dog (2 coupons) Free Specialty Coffee • Buy One Get One Free Nutz Buy One Get One Free Nova Blue® Bottled Water These equal a $25 value for $10, and and $4 of that will benefit your library. They are good at all the Sheetz locations, not just the Sheetz in Monongahela.

Stop by the library Monday – Thursday 11 – 7; Friday 11 – 5; or Saturday 10 – 5. We sell Smencils (scented pencils) for the youngsters, too!

Local ABATE Sponsors ‘Presents for Patients’

Mon Valley ABATE members and family prepare to deliver gifts to patients at Monongahela Valley Hospital.

By Miranda Startare

Santa and one of his “reindeer” arrive at Monongahela Valley Hospital ready to deliver Christmas cheer – and gifts.

Patients at the Monongahela Valley Hospital and two local nursing homes received an early Christmas when members of the Mon Valley chapter of ABATE (Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education) donated and delivered a bundle of gifts. Every patient in the hospital and every resident in Havencrest Nursing Center and the Monongahela High Rise received a gift. The funds used to purchase the gifts were generated from the various fundraisers sponsored by ABATE. ABATE, a motorcyclist organization, has been participating in the “Presents for Patients” program for 8 years.

According to ABATE member Roy Sluk, the organization delivers approximately 250-500 presents annually during the event. Santa Claus himself joined the 25-30 members to help deliver all the gifts on Sunday, December 11, 2011.

Many members travelled to the three locations on motorcycle, of course.

Children and grandchildren also helped deliver the gifts. President Dave Lucchesi, Chapter Rep. Dennis Saputo, Sr., Vice President Patty Hefner, and “Merle,” a Sgt. of Arms, were among the many members participating that chilly Sunday. Patients and residents were also treated to the gift of song as ABATE members and family sung Christmas carols during their gift-giving.

ABATE of PA formed in 1983 as an alliance of bikers dedicated to the protection of motorcyclists’ rights. They help enact political change through charitable works and the education of the public about motorcycle awareness. There are currently 50 ABATE chapters in Pennsylvania alone. Information about ABATE can be found on their website at abatepa.org.

Push-n-Pull 5951 Brownsville Road • South Park, PA 15236 412.655.PUSH • www.pushnpull.net

Vehicle and Trailer Inspections • Bike Racks • Snow Plows • Salt Spreaders • Trailers • Hitches • Tool Boxes • Custom Fabrication and more!

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

unionfinley.com 15 LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

New Restrictions for Young Drivers According to state Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, junior driver’s license holders and learner’s permit holders should be aware of new driving restrictions and requirements that took effect on December 24.

Learner’s permit holders: Increased behind-the-wheel training for those 18 and under from 50 to 65 hours.

Ten of the added hours must consist of nighttime driving.

Five of the added hours must be driven in poor weather conditions.

Learner’s permit holders who have taken their road driving skills test before December 24 will only have to complete the 50 hours of supervised training.

Junior License holders: A junior driver, for the first six months, is not permitted to have more than one passenger under 18 who is not an immediate family member in the vehicle unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

If the junior driver has not been convicted of a driving violation or fully responsible for a reportable crash after six months, a junior license holder may have up to three passengers under 18 who are not immediate family in the vehicle without a parent or legal guardian present.

Violation is considered a summary offense and carries a fine of $25.

Finleyville Native Receives Doctor of Chiropractic Degree from Logan College of Chiropractic Dean Powell earned his Doctor of Chiropractic Degree from Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, MO. Son of Betty Ann Powell of Finleyville, Dean will practice at Perestam Chiropractic in Owega, NY. Dr. Powell and his wife, Janet Powell, will relocate and divide their time between Owega and Franconia, NH. At Logan College, Powell completed a rigorous 10 trimesters (the equivalent of five two-semester academic years) program of study.

Logan’s Doctor of Chiropractic curriculum encompasses basic and clinical (diagnostic) sciences, chiropractic science, research, and patient care.

Dean Powell

Immediate family member s are defined as a brother, sister, stepbrother, or stepsister of the junior driver and adopted or foster children living in the same household as the junior driver.

A law enforcement officer may stop a vehicle and cite a junior driver license holder and occupants under 18 if they are not wearing seat belts, or if children under 8 are not securely fastened; seat belt violations become a primary offense for junior drivers and carry a fine of $75.

The new law does not change the prohibition on drivers under 18 from being on the road from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., nor the minimum six-month requirement for individuals to hold a learner’s permit.

————————————————————————————————————————— 16 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Jefferson Hills Council Approves Final Budget for 2012

By Jim Caldwell

At its monthly regular meeting held December 12, Jefferson Hills Council unanimously passed the final 2012 Borough Budget. Certain fees were amended and accepted, budgets transfers were approved, and the fund balance for the general fund was approved.

As reported last month, the real estate tax rate will remain the same for 2012 at 5.63 mills. This represents 5.08 mills for the general fund, .45 mills for the volunteer fire departments, and .10 mills for the ambulance service.

In a straightforward business-like meeting with little discussion on the agenda items, the council voted together on a number of motions. Cusumano Insurance agency, Inc. received a brokerage agreement with the Borough, Jordan Tax Service, Inc. is authorized to collect the local taxes beginning January 1, 2012, and Seals & DeMillion, P.C. was authorized to conduct the 2011 audit of the Borough and the Jefferson Hills Library.

Schaaf Excavating Contractors, Inc. received the bid for phase six of the demolition project for $13,650; Soli Construction was paid $40,831.51 for the open-cut repairs project; the final payment was made to SHACOG of $1,054.42 for the manhole rehabilitation project; and Plavchak Construction Company, Inc. received $9,764 for the Worthington Avenue sanitary sewer project.

A number of items received split votes. On the motion to execute an agreement with the Teamsters Local Union No. 205, the vote passed 4 to 3

with Council Members Jan Cmar, Tracey Khalil, and James Weber voting against.

On the motion to execute an agreement with Southersby Development Corporation concerning partial reimbursement of previously paid sewer tapin fees for Patriot Point Phase III and partial payment for tap-in fees related to Patriot Point lots, the count was 6 to 1 with Councilwoman Kathleen Reynolds dissenting.

Regarding providing winter maintenance for the remainder of Independence Drive, four voted for and three against. Scott Albrecht, Vickie Ielase, and Tracey Khalil cast negative votes.

Providing winter maintenance for St. James Court passed 5 to 2 with Ielase and Khalil voting no.

David Montgomery and Dale Lostetter were reappointed to the Planning Commission until December 31, 2015; Lisa Albrecht was appointed to the Library Board of Directors until December 31, 2014; and Borough Manager Douglas Arndt was appointed the delegate to the Southwest Allegheny County Tax Collection District, with Chris King and Scott Albrecht being alternate delegates.

General business remarks revealed that Jennifer Pesanka, Borough Financial Officer/Treasurer was leaving that position for an opportunity elsewhere. Council members, one by one, praised her great service, thanked her for helping Jefferson Hills Borough in many ways, and wished her well in her new endeavor.

REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the February issue is JANUARY 12

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

unionfinley.com 17 —————————————————————————————————————————— MUNICIPALMESSENGER NEWS UNION-FINLEY

Elizabeth Borough Council Approves Purchase of UHF Radios for Police

By Alice Harris

The November 25 meeting of the Elizabeth Borough Council opened with guest Mary Black inquiring about the progress of determining who owns the dilapidated properties surrounding her home and who is responsible for their upkeep. If weeds are part of a property, the owner is responsible. Owners of overgrown properties will be cited if not maintained. Borough workers have gone onto a property to cut weeds if/when the property has been abandoned and its state considered a health hazard.

Black stated she has opossums, snakes, groundhogs, chipmunks, raccoons, mice, and rats coming from these properties into her yard. The Borough will send someone out to bait rats, and will contact the appropriate authorities in an effort to control the other vermin.

Allegheny County is changing police radio bands to ultra high frequency (UHF), which will require the police department to purchase new radios.

Officer John Snelson reported on several phone models, with the Vertex Standard UFH radios fitting their budget best. A cost of $3,858 was quoted with a $240 rebate and a $2,000 gift from an anonymous donor, bringing the final cost to $1,618. A motion to allot $3,858 was approved to initiate the purchase of these radios. Officer Snelson stated he also will make effort to sell the current radios to recoup costs. $10,000 was transferred to the Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) fund in November. A motion to transfer $5,000 from the General Fund now and an additional $20,000 from Liquid Fuels to satisfy paying off this note by the end of 2011 was approved. Overall, revenues in 2011 have exceeded the budget for the year.

In a discussion of police overtime, the three most senior officers are eligible to work three extra shifts per week.

The next two officers in seniority are eligible to work one extra shift per week. For extra shifts beyond these, officers are pulled from the availability list.

Issues with vandalism at Duke Park resulted in approval to install motion detector higher illumination lighting.

Council approved the sale of the 1993 Street Department pick-up truck in its “as is” condition and without accessories at the cost of $650.

One 2011 baseball team has played but never paid for the season. They will be approached to pay their bill. In the future, all teams must be paid in full in advance to play that season. A past discussion to sell advertising signs along the field fences was revisited, with the recommendation to offer them at the beginning of next season. A cost of $250 per sign was suggested. CSX destroyed 40-45 feet of field fence in their railway improvement projects this year. Bids in the proximity of $2,800 have been received and will be submitted to CSX. PNC Bank was approached earlier in 2011 to consider removing boarding from their upper windows to permit the original beauty of the building to show. PNC has removed the boarding and repaired/replaced those windows, improving its facade greatly.

Councilman Duval asked to send a letter from council in appreciation.

The public Planning Commission meeting scheduled for December 12 at 6:30 pm will address updates to the zoning maps.

Council approved the amount of $2,400 to make payment to fulfill their pension fund obligation to the state.

Councilman Van Fossen, who has been absent from Council for several meetings due to family and health issues, will be asked if he plans to return.

Plans for 2012 include changing Elizabeth’s Light Up Night date to the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

Lakeside Primary Care L Lake

Mary Parks Lamb, M.D.

Kristen Scalise Romesburg, D.O.

t $PNQSFIFOTJWF DVUUJOH FEHF DBSF BDSPTT UIF MJGFTQBO t )FBMUIDBSF EFTJHOFE GPS ZPVS DIBOHJOH OFFET t 1SPHSFTTJWF QSJNBSZ DBSF GPS UIF XIPMF GBNJMZ t 0OTJUF QSFTDSJQUJPOT t 4BNF EBZ BQQPJOUNFOUT

1001 Waterdam Plaza McMurray, PA

724.969.1001 Please call or visit our website for more information

www.lakesideprimarycare.net

————————————————————————————————————————— 18 unionfinley.com

MUNICIPAL NEWS

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

By Ken Askew

Surprisingly, no one asked to speak at the public forum section of the Monongahela City Council meeting on December 14, 2011.

By letter, Dr. Harry Miale resigned as a representative from Monongahela to the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority; Councilman Tom Caudill will replace him.

A Request for Quotations has been issued for design of a new city garage.

Council voted to raise the rent of a building occupied by the Southwest PA Human Services Commission, from $750/month (an amount set in 2001) to $850/month.

A Tax Exempt Hearing was held immediately prior to the Council meeting, resulting in a vote at the Council meeting to grant tax-exempt status to Comprehensive Community Services Inc., a non-profit 501(c) group, operating as a charitable organization at 618 Ohio Street.

Police Chief Brian Tempest reported there has been a rash of break-ins to unlocked vehicles lately. Since the perpetrators are only interested in Global Positioning Systems and loose

change, young teens are suspected; Tempest expects to file charges against an individual this week. He strongly suggested that residents lock their vehicles.

The 2012 property tax remains at 23 mills. The revised 2012 budget for Monongahela City is: $2,546,181 Income $2,544,535 Expenditures $1,646 Surplus The amount of the annual Community Development Block Grant has been set at $375,300.

Two proposals were received for the 2012 Tax Anticipation Loan for $500K. First Niagara Bank bid 2.65% plus a $500 closing fee, but the winner was Charleroi Federal Savings Bank at 2.1%.

Improvements are finally coming to fruition on East Main Street / Route 837. Trucks exiting the Monongahela Iron & Metal Company site are having their tires washed, which has reduced the amount of mud and dirt tracked onto the highway by 90%. Also, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has taken steps to alleviate the water drainage problem in this area.

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

New Eagle Post Office at Risk of Closing

By Ken Askew

Rumor has it that the New Eagle Post Office is closing on March 31, 2012, because the owner of the building in which it is housed has failed to negotiate a mutually acceptable renewal lease with the U. S. Postal Service.

Consequently, the landlord (Larry Kumph) attended the December 6, 2011 meeting of the New Eagle Council to publicly refute the rumor.

Kumph claims he is fighting the closure, as evidenced by the letters he sent to Washington County Commissioner Diana Irey, U. S. Congressman Mark Critz, and U. S. Senator Patrick Toomey.

He has also obtained permission from the New Eagle Volunteer Fire Company to use their Social Hall on Chess Street for some type of meeting to rally citizen support to fight the closure.

The New Eagle Post Office has been located in his building on Main Street for 30 years, under various lease agreements with the Postal Service. Kumpf disclosed that during the last 15 years of the lease, the annual fee ranged from $10K to $28K. This year’s amount is $19K, but the Postal Service is offering only $15K for next year. Over the last 15 years, Kumpf has conceded a total of $90K in negotiations to keep the facility open.

Kumph argued that since the New Eagle Post Office is situated on the ground floor, many handicapped and elderly residents in nearby municipalities do business at his site, since they cannot climb the steps to the second floor of the Monongahela Post Office.

Therefore, if either facility must be closed, it should be the Monongahela Post Office.

In other business: Resolution #4, Destruction of Public Records, was passed, to allow the disposition of over a dozen classifications of documents created from 1993 to 2006.

A 1st reading of the 2012 budget was conducted, maintaining the millage at last year’s rate (34.48 mills).

A 1st reading of a new ordinance was recited, to require that whenever snowfall exceeds 6”, vehicles parked on Main Street--from its’ intersection with Chess Street to the Monongahela border-must be moved, to facilitate straightline, curb-to-curb snow plowing.

Failure to comply may result in fines from $100 to $1K per day, plus legal costs and fees for towing and storage.

Furthermore, snow cannot be deposited onto Main Street from adjacent areas.

The deadline for submitting advertisements or historical photos for the Centennial history book has been extended to January 31, 2012.

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

unionfinley.com 19 —————————————————————————————————————————— MUNICIPALMESSENGER NEWS UNION-FINLEY

South Park Township Clearing the Way for New Housing Development

By Ken Askew

Bingo games sure have changed since the 1920s and 30s. Back then, prizes included 25’ X 100’ tracts of land. At the December 12, 2011 South Park Township Supervisors meeting, 45 acres of such land was discussed.

The acreage, appropriately referred to as “The Bingo Lots,” is located between the Park ‘n Ride parking lot and the South Park Middle School, behind the Consol Energy complex. A representative of the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County has been working for months to clear the legal title to these properties so they can be re-sized from about 300 undersized lots into over 100 parcels of roughly 1/3-acre each (depending on topography), sold to a residential housing developer, and then added to the tax rolls of the township.

No structures were ever built on the lots. Most of the original owners and their heirs are deceased, so the properties have fallen into tax delinquency for many years. Ownership is changing hands based on the government’s Right of Eminent Domain; funding of the complicated legal process is through a federal grant. The few owners who have kept property taxes up-to-date will be offered monetary compensation.

The supervisors presented a proclamation to Township Solicitor Paul J. Gitnik, who has resigned after 18 years of service; they were most appreciative of his dedicated and exemplary work.

A replacement Solicitor is now being sought.

Another proclamation was presented to Kathy Koltash, Terrie Vietmeier, Sandy Wolf, Drew Wolf, Susan Kaercher, Christine Kaercher, and Nicole Kaercher for their 18 years of commendable effort in providing an annual children’s safe Halloween party, in conjunction with DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education).

No bids were received for the sale of a 1997 Lincoln Continental, which was confiscated as a drug forfeiture.

A number of insurance policies were approved: $145K for workers’ compensation, $12K for volunteer firefighters, and $67K for a package of items such as property, crime, and other types of insurance.

A Resolution was approved to set the 2012 budget at $6,720,701 for both income and expenditures. The property tax rate will remain at 3.6 mills.

The purchase of two 2012 Ford Explorer police vehicles from Day Automotive was approved at a cost of $50,668.

The following delegates were approved to attend the Pennsylvania Recreation Park Society Annual Conference on March 16-20, 2012: Recreation Director Colleen Dominick, Mary Arrigo, Kim Amodeo, Kim Thompson, and Diane Baldesburger.

Funding will come from proceeds of a Community Day Event Fund Raiser ($3,140) and the Township budget ($970).

It was reported that 140 people attended the Township Light-Up Night.

NEED A NEW ROOF?

————————————————————————————————————————— 20 unionfinley.com

January 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————— MUNICIPALMESSENGER NEWS UNION-FINLEY

Pleasant Hills Council Meetings to Receive Monthly Coverage

By Ken Askew

Over the last few years, the UnionFinley Messenger’s ties to the Pleasant Hills community has grown—by means of UFM distribution to more businesses and schools where people can pick up the free newspaper, more copies of the UFM going to those locations (over 1,500 per edition now), and more advertisers utilizing the UFM for their marketing needs.

With such favorable demographics, it has become clear that the UFM should further step up our service to the Pleasant Hills area by dispatching a reporter to the monthly Pleasant Hills Council meeting, thus providing more information of interest to the residents.

So that is what we have done.

To lay a foundation for this continuing effort, it would behoove us to make sure our readers are familiar with the names of the policy-makers in this Borough.

The voting members of the Pleasant Hills Council are William Trimbath, Robert Bootay, James Funkhouser, John “Greg” Parks, Robert Karcher, Bradley Rodeheaver, and Council President Jan Nevling. The December 2011 Council meeting was the last in the elected terms of Funkhouser, Parks, and Nevling.

Their replacements’ terms will begin at the January 2012 meeting.

Also on the dais at Council meetings are non-voting staff: Borough Manager Deborah Englert, Mayor Warren Bourgeois, Borough Engineer Ned Mitrovich, Solicitor Fred Jug, and Court Reporter Tricia Clegg.

The Council meeting on December 19 lasted just over an hour, so print space limitations preclude a transcript of the numerous topics discussed, but a few of the highlights are presented below.

The property tax rates for 2012 were set at 6.25 mills for general purpose, 0.089 mills for library tax, and 0.268 mills for fire tax.

Ordinances were passed regarding (1) borough employee salaries for 2012, (2) charges in 2012 for maintenance, support, and retirement of debt services for the sanitary sewer system and setting the solid waste charges, (3) establishing the General Employees Pension Plan and the

Police Pension Plan as qualified plans under Internal Revenue Service Code Section 401 (a), and (4) amending the Junk/Abandoned Vehicle Ordinance to provide for a $150 fine plus towing and storage costs.

Resolutions were passed to (1) set the 2012 Police Pension Plan contributions at 5%, (2) approve the transfer of a restaurant liquor license to the proposed Juniper Grill to be established by May/June of 2012 at the former Brass Rail restaurant location in the Bill Green Shopping Center, (3) approve the disposal of 2003 public records, and (4) permit the revision of a New Land Development Plan at the Bowser Nissan buildings and endorse sending a sewage facilities planning module to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for approval, as required by law.

It was reported that the annual “Visit with Santa” event on December 15 was attended by 225 children. Organization of the event was lead by the Pleasant Hills Police Department, with assistance from several other first-responder organizations.

Resolutions were approved to express gratitude for the years of dedicated service by departing Council members Funkhouser, Parks, and Nevling.

The roof replacement at the borough building has been completed—at $1,350 under budget.

Council originally had 19 questions regarding development of a new building at the Bowser Nissan facility; all but 3 have been satisfactorily resolved. A Nissan corporate funding commitment is contingent upon a short project completion schedule, which does not allow time for a temporary work stoppage while the remaining three items are resolved.

Rather than stop the project while the issues are decided, Bowser requested council’s cooperation to allow the project to continue at Bowser’s own risk while work is done in parallel to finish up the resolutions (especially including the long-lead-time DEP approval mentioned above). Council agreed to allow the work to continue, contingent upon not granting an occupancy permit until all work is done and the three items are resolved.

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

Let's Talk Real Estate

by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner

THE DECISION TO MOVE OR IMPROVE? What home improvements really pay off when the time comes to sell your house?

That's an important question for any homeowner who's trying to decide between moving or remodeling. The only real answer is a somewhat complicated one.

That answer starts with the fact that really major improvements room additions, total replacements of kitchens and baths, etc., -- rarely pay off fully in the near term. Small and relatively inexpensive changes can pay

unionfinley.com 21 UNION-FINLEY —————————————————————————————————————————— MUNICIPALMESSENGER NEWS

off in a big way in making your home attractive to buyers if your decision is to move now.

It's a simple fact, consistently confirmed across America over a very long period of time, that even the most appropriate major improvements are not likely to return their full cost if a house is sold within two or three years.

Does that mean that major home improvements are always a bad idea? Absolutely not. It does mean, though, that if your present house falls seriously short of meeting your family's needs, you need to think twice and think carefully before deciding to undertake a major renovation.

Viewed strictly in investment terms, major improvements rarely make as much sense as selling your present home and buying one that's carefully selected to provide you with what you want.

Even if you have a special and strong attachment to the house you own now and feel certain that you could be happy in it for a long time, if only it had more bedrooms or baths, for example, there are a few basic rules that you should keep in mind.

The most basic rule of all, is the one that says you should never invest in these major types of improvements in your home unless you absolutely don't care at all about eventual resale value. Never improve a house to the point where its desired sales price would be more than 20 percent higher than the most expensive of the other houses in the immediate neighborhood.

The point is that if you try to raise the value of your house too high, the value of the other properties in your

HAPPY NEW YEAR! WE WISH YOU & YOURS A HAPPY, HEALTHY & PROSPEROUS 2012.

neighborhood will pull it down.

Here are some other rules worth remembering: • Never rearrange the interior of your house in a way that reduces the total number of bedrooms to less than three.

• Never add a third bathroom to a two-bath house unless you don't care about ever recouping your investment.

• Never diminish the number of garage bays.

• Swimming pools, sun rooms, and finished basements rarely return what it costs to install them.

If you decide to move instead of improve, it's often the smaller, relatively inexpensive improvements that turn out to be most worth doing to enhance your home's saleability.

The cost of replacing a discolored toilet bowl, making sure all the windows work or getting rid of dead trees and shrubs are trivial compared with the cost of adding a bathroom, but such things can have a big and very positive impact on prospective buyers. Your CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty sales professional can help you decide which expenditures make sense and which don't, and can save you a lot of money in the process.

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

————————————————————————————————————————— 22 unionfinley.com

January 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————— MUNICIPALMESSENGER NEWS UNION-FINLEY

New Nottingham Township Municipal Building Will Open in January

By J.R. Brower

Supervisor Doug King says that construction on the new Nottingham Township Municipal Building is nearing completion, and he expects the new building to be open for business by the third week of January.

He provided details at the December 19 meeting of the Nottingham Township Board of Supervisors. He said that the final weeks will be spent installing trim work and flooring. After that work is completed, the supervisors will inspect the building to make sure nothing was missed. Construction began on the facility in late spring.

The board approved its final budget for 2012 in the amount of $1,773,141.

They also passed a resolution fixing the municipal tax rate at 10.2 mills for general purposes, representing no tax increase for the year 2012.

A motion was made and passed to authorize the advertisement of meetings for the following boards to organize for the year 2012: Board of Supervisors – January 3, Board of Auditors – January 4, Planning Commission – January 9, Zoning

Hearing Board – January 10, UCC Board of Appeals – January 19, and Recreation Board – January 23.

It was announced that the following will request reappointment to various township positions: James Liekar – Solicitor, Thomas Hincy – Zoning Hearing Board, Dave Resanovich and Brian Lindley – Recreation Board, Ed Schultz and Mickey Hornack – Peters Creek Sanitary Authority, and Tom Lutz – UCC Board of Appeals.

Jim Ramsey requested to not be reappointed to the Planning Commission.

All appointments and reappointments will be addressed at the reorganization meeting of the Board of Supervisors on January 3.

In other business, the board acknowledged receipt of a notice of claim from Verizon for damages sustained to a 50pair Verizon cable while township employees were brush hogging on Stark Spur Road on or about October 5.

The township received a letter from Penn National Insurance, which is investigating the damage. King said that no damage amount regarding the incident has been specified yet, and no further action was taken on the matter.

Nottingham Supervisors Remind Residents to Recycle Properly

By J.R. Brower

With reports coming in that residents are putting the wrong items into the single stream recycling unit, the Nottingham Board of Supervisors addressed the problem at their December 19 meeting. Chairman Pete Marcoline said that many items that aren’t supposed to be recycled are being placed into the unit at the Public Works Garage at 909 Sugar Run Road.

Those items include regular garbage and plastic bags, which all have to be separated out.

The recycling unit has been in place for almost two years and is also used by Washington County residents outside the township’s borders. Residents are encouraged to please be more thought-

ful as to what they place in the recycling unit.

Acceptable recyclable materials include paper, manilla folders, cardboard, junk mail, glossy paper and magazines, newspapers, phone books, glass, plastic, and tin and aluminum containers.

Unacceptable materials include furniture, tires, food waste, and paint.

Residents are reminded that the facility is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday, and it is monitored by cameras.

Marcoline said that the recycling facility equipment is actually owned by Washington County, but that in the future it will be taken over by Nottingham Township.

Union Township Secures Local Police Contract Approved with Southwestern Regional Police Department

By Paul Chasko

The Union Township Board completed negotiations with the Southwestern Regional Police Department (SRPD) and approved a one-year contract that has undergone revisions over the past several months.

The board voted 4/1 to adopt the contract with the single no vote coming from Board Chairman Steve Parish, who is concerned about the long-term financial impact on the township. This decision comes on the heels of an announcement from the PA State Police that significant personnel cutbacks are likely next year, leading some board members to believe this was the time to establish a local police presence. The salient features of the contract with SRPD were disclosed at the meeting: Coverage will begin on January 1, 2012.

Shifts will be one eight-hour shift per day, seven days a week.

Contract will be for one year and will be renegotiated after the first year.

Contract can be cancelled with 60 days’ notice.

The Board will schedule coverage periods of random patrols.

Coverage will be at a rate of $40 per hour, 56 hours per week.

Coverage for hours exceeding 56 per week will be $46 per hour; board must approve extra hours.

SRPD will furnish all equipment including the patrol cars.

Gasoline for the patrol car is to be provided by UT. SRPD will provide monthly activity reports.

UT will provide office space to SRPD at the Township Building.

Fines will be payable to SRPD to cover necessary court time by SRPD officers.

PA State Police will continue to provide police protection when SRPD is not patrolling in UT. SRPD has stated on numerous occasions that they work

very well with the PA State Police in other communities they service. One significant advantage of having local police coverage will be the ability to enforce local ordinances and provide better traffic control. The PA State Police have made it clear that they do not have the manpower to enforce local ordinances.

According Township Engineer Carl DeCais, three slides are endangering Coal Bluff Road. Causes of the slides differ, but the soil beneath the roadbed has become saturated and is sliding, collapsing the roadbed. The board voted to solicit quotes from outside firms to excavate the saturated soil and sunken roadway and support the roadbed with retaining walls. The engineer recommended a GeoGrid wall system to permanently support the roadbed in the three threatened areas. The problem on Gilmore Road is more complex, as a house is perched on top of the slide area with a precipitous drop below. Further study of this problem will be necessary.

Condemnation of the house for fair market value was mentioned as part of a possible solution.

The board considered drafting a resolution opposing the closing of the Finley Middle School but decided to await further developments, as it was pointed out that contrary to what was printed in another paper, no formal motion was made at the Ringgold School Board Reorganization Meeting to close the Finley Middle School, although it was implied. The motion at the school board meeting was to evaluate the feasibility of reopening the Donora and Monongahela elementary centers and converting the newly renovated Elementary South Building for use as a middle school. It was also pointed out that any state-supported building renovations must first be supported by professional feasibility studies and a PlanCon submitted to the PA Department of Education for approval.

Visit our website at www.unionfinley.com for more details on this meeting.

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

MUNICIPAL NEWS

unionfinley.com 23 ——————————————————————————————————————————

West Elizabeth Council Awards Contract to Elizabeth Borough Police

By Charlotte Hopkins

All members of the West Elizabeth Council were in attendance for the December meeting, except Councilmen Frank Magill and Steve Hallam.

Council voted on whether it would award its police contract to Clairton Police Department or Elizabeth Borough Police; it unanimously agreed to award the contract to the Elizabeth Borough Police. Solicitor Matt Racunas made some additions to the contract, which include: the police will check businesses once a week, perform Vascar speed checks a minimum of one hour each month, provide monthly reports that include the specific days and times that the speed checks were performed, and complete PA Department of Transportation inspections at least 3 times in a 12-month period.

Councilman Darryl Celestino stated that even though the contract for Clairton police was a little less expensive, he voted for Elizabeth Borough Police because the consensus of the West Elizabeth residents to whom he talked was to keep them. “I want to please the citizens and give them what they want...that is what we are here for,� he said. "I think we have a good working relationship with Elizabeth and I would like to continue that, and I want to make sure that the people in our community get the service that they deserve.“ He also stated that he has noticed an increase in patrols in the last seven to eight months, about which he is very pleased, and has noticed patrols even on Sundays, which has never happened before.

Elizabeth Mayor David Householder thanked West Elizabeth Council Members for choosing to continue service with the Elizabeth Borough Police Department. He noted that the police have always spent more than one hour performing speed checks, as he has personally witnessed this during ridealongs with officers. He also stated that his officers are always the first to arrive on ambulance calls for both Elizabeth Borough and West Elizabeth. He and Officer-in-Charge John Snelson continue to remind officers that they should give West Elizabeth the same attention as Elizabeth Borough.

Regarding speed checks, Elizabeth Police offered to give 50% of fines collected to West Elizabeth Borough, with the exception of the DOT inspections.

The Elizabeth Borough Police answered 29 calls in November and handed out 2 traffic citations.

In other news: Councilman Darryl Celestino’s term on the West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority (WESA) Board has come to an end. He submitted a request to be reappointed, which council approved.

In preparation of the winter storm season, council agreed that in the event of snow storms Councilwoman Lisa Morris will be the primary person in charge. In emergency situations, Code Enforcement Officer Bill Wolfgang will be the primary person in charge.

Celestino informed council members that the street department removed tree branches on Route 837 that obstructed traffic. In addition, lawnmowers were cleaned and Morris and Pete Sporio fixed the three gas heaters in the garage.

Salt spreaders are also ready for use, and two older salt spreaders are for sale (bids being accepted, see announcement). Morris and Sporio also decorated the borough building for the Christmas holiday.

West Elizabeth Fire Chief Mike Dell asked that the residents be cautious of the dangers of carbon monoxide leaks this winter. If residents need help starting their furnace or have concerns of a possible carbon monoxide leak in their home, they can call 911 so firefighters can assist them and check for possible leaks. Some signs of carbon monoxide poisoning are nausea, dizziness, and headaches.

The West Jefferson Hills School District is collecting donations for a Chinese Auction to raise money for the Angel Project, which supplies warm clothes and winter coats for low-income children in the school district. The school nurses run the Angel Project, and 100% of funds are raised through donations. The West Elizabeth Town Council is donating a $50 Giant Eagle gift card for the auction.

Elizabeth Mayor David Householder announced the opening of a new restaurant in Elizabeth, Don Vitos. He stated that it is a small, intimate Italian restau-

rant that uses an authentic brick oven.

They also bake homemade bread and prepare their own sauce.

A mobile home parked on Route 837 is causing a danger to drivers and residents by blocking the view of cars and making it difficult for drivers to safely pull onto/off of the road. To remedy the problem, council will designate Robinson Street as a “No Parking� zone on both sides. However, making the ordinance official will cost over $200, which may hinder its passage.

One resident, who chose to be anonymous, informed council that every veteran in West Elizabeth is going to march on the January meeting if a light is not installed to shine on the American flag at the war memorial site. Councilman Steve Hallam was previously in charge of seeing that a light was installed, but one has still not been put in place. An official “dusk to dawn� rule states that a light must shine on any American flag in public at night. Council President Louise Biddle stated that she will make arrangements for installment of a light;

West Elizabeth Taking Bids on Salt Spreaders West Elizabeth Borough has two salt spreaders for sale and is accepting bids. They are a few years old and need some repairs. Any person or borough interested in making a bid or obtaining more information, should call 412-384-8200. in the meantime, the flag will be removed.

Krisha Mackulin of the solicitor's office led a public hearing in which a petition was filed regarding the home located at 500 First Street. They are seeking to condemn the house.

Wolfgang submitted a list of dangers in the home that render it inhabitable. A resident explained how dangerous the home has become to his family. West Elizabeth Fire Chief Mike Dell also spoke about the dangers the home poses for residents.

)LQGLQJ D VWDFN RI FDVK LV RQH ZD\ WR GHDO ZLWK GHEW But, it’s not a realistic plan.

Neither is pretending that the problem will go away.

There is a better solution.

If you feel overwhelmed by debt, now is the time to find out how the bankruptcy laws can help you meet your obligations in a responsible way.

Call today for a consultation.

Let’s talk about your future.

%U]XVWRZLF] 0DURWWD

A debt relief agency. We help people file for relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

————————————————————————————————————————— 24 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

7jh^cZhh BZgX]Vci CZlh Ripepi Winery Reopens to the Public After 10 Years By: Samantha Milton

Ripepi Winery and Vineyard, located at 93 Van Voorhis Lane in Monongahela, reopened this December after being closed to the public for nearly 10 years.

Owner Rich Ripepi, of Monongahela, planted the first grapes for the winery back in 1986. “We still have quite a few 25-year-old vines that make our winery unique,� said Ripepi.

The winery was last open to the public in 2001. However, it did remain operating for the Ripepi’s personal wine making, while the rest of the grapes Rich Ripepi (right) and friend Pete, who helps were being shipped to Forks of Cheat with the winery, display a bottle of their handWinery in Morgantown, WV. “We are made wine available for purchase at of the Ripepi Winery and Vineyard in Monongahela. excited to be up and running again and thankful for the support and help of all our friends and family, who have helped us with picking and harvesting the grapes,� Ripepi added. The winery was supposed to have opened last year, but because of a heavy frost, all of the grapes were ruined. This year there are nearly 8,000 grapes with 1,000 more to be added in the spring.

With everything being handmade, down to the labels on the bottles, Ripepi Winery is a unique find in the Mon Valley. The wine list includes a sweet white Diamond, sweet white Apple, sweet rose Valley Sunrise, slightly-sweet red Steuben, dry red Cabernet, dry red Chancellor, and an oak-aged dry red Chancellor Oaked each ranging from $11.99 to $17.99 a bottle. Ripepi encourages customers to stop in for a wine tasting and plans to have tours of the winery starting up in the spring.

Wine can be purchased in the lobby of Ripepi Winery Monday- Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. and soon online from RipepiWinery.com. For more information, stop by, call 724-292-8351 or email sales@ripepiwinery.com.

Kayla Farrell Named Elizabeth Rotary Student of the Month Kayla Farrell of Elizabeth Forward has been named the Elizabeth Rotary Student of the Month. Farrell has been a member of Interact for four years now and vice president of the club for two years. Every year, she works at the 100 Acres Manor for Halloween as well as contributes to the toy drive. She has also secured gifts for the senior citizen breakfast that is held Kayla Farrell at her school every year. Last year, she was a co-captain for the Relay for Life program, attending meetings every month at Charleroi High School. After graduating high school, she plans on going to a four-year college and majoring in human development.

Women’s Business Network is Open to Area Women Business Owners The Women's Business Network is open to area women business owners and those in sales seeking networking opportunities to expand their contacts and share ideas to help grow their business. Meeting agendas include self-marketing, a business presentation by an individual member, a table topic discussion, and networking. Each of the various local chapters meets twice a month on the following dates and locations: The Mount Lebanon Chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, January 10 and 24, at 8:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza on Fort Couch Road. For more information, contact Sue Baumgart at 412-759-3965.

The South Hills Chapter meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays, January 5 and 19, at 8 a.m. at King’s Restaurant, 155 McMurray Road in Upper St Clair. For more information, contact Jennifer Ohrman 412-531-5055.

The McMurray Chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, January 11 and 25, at 8:30 a.m. at The Meadows (Bowling Alley), 210 Race Track Road in Washington. For more information, please contact Sallie Dunn at 724-503-4500.

The Washington Chapter meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, January 11 and 25, at 8:30 a.m. at Panera Bread, 108 Trinity Pointe Drive in Washington. For more information, please contact Jessica Kestler 412-838-0064.

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

unionfinley.com 25 BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS—————————————————————————————————————————— UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Grand Openings!

Look what’s new in Town

New Business Comes to Monongahela in the Form of Rabe’s Trading Post

Make Time for Massage Opens in Monongahela

By Christen M. Stroh

There’s a new business in town, and owner Cindy Cialone is reaching out and touching people to promote it - literally.

Make Time for Massage opened in early December in downtown Monongahela.

Cindy Cialone, owner and massage therapist, wanted to share massage with people who not only enjoy it, but also need it. “I know people A congratulatory handshake from Monongahela Area Chamber of need massage,” she said. “I Commerce President, Anthony Bottino, work at a chiropractor’s office, and to owner of Make Time for Massage I didn’t feel that I was meeting the owner, Cindy Cialone needs of enough people.” A lot of people are afraid of chiropractors, she noted, but expressed that people are willing to get a massage.

Cialone focuses on primarily deep tissue massage and trigger-point therapy, both geared at healing those who have aches and pains, either injuryrelated or not. Sometimes, she says, there is a direct correlation between and accident and an injury, but other times, people just start to ache in places that previously didn’t have any pain.

Making people feel better is Cialone’s primary reason for opening Make Time for Massage. A 2006 graduate of Penn Commercial in Washington, PA, Cialone said, “I started this business to try to reach people who need help. I am not a fluff-and-buff massage therapist,” she laughed. “I prefer to treat people who are in pain. I’m not spa service.”

Currently, Cialone operates the business on her own and is available by appointment only. She is located at 218 W. Main Street in Monongahela and can be reached at 724-747-1411. Gift certificates can also be purchased.

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

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

The Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes their newest member to the community: Rabe’s Trading Post, located at 210 Fourth Street (formerly Monongahela Ford) in downtown Monongahela.

Owners Mark and Carol Rabe decided to open with consumers in mind during these difficult economic times. Selling affordable quality items is the top priority of the Trading Post. The items sold on consignment are household items, antiques, collectables, appliances & knifes. Consignment and trade are available to the consumers. Rabe’s offer pick up and delivery service for convenience.

Visit Rabe’s Trading Post Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed on Sundays.

Contact Mark or Carol Rabe at 724-258-6705 if you are interested in consignment of your household items.

Washington Community Federal Credit Union Opens Third Branch

Washington Community Federal Credit Union's third office location opened this November at 151 East Pike Street in Canonsburg, across from Little Caesars Pizza. Pictured are Sophia Bell, Head Teller; Donna Astuto, Branch Manager; Tracey Miller, Member Service Representative; Amanda Grolemund, Marketing Director; Ed Orisko, CEO; and Chris George, Director of Compliance and IT.

January 2012 BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS —————————————————————————————————————————— ————————————————————————————————————————— 26 unionfinley.com

Raising the Bar at Steel City Barbell in Jefferson Hills

By Mike Ference

.

High School Senior Portraits Mention this ad and get $25 off either package!

Call for an appointment or visit my website. Portraits done outdoors, in my studio, or I can come to you.

Time Stand Still Photography 724-263-3838 timestandstillphoto.com

There’s a new business in Jefferson Hills that some powerful folks are grunting and groaning about – and those are the good customers.

Jamie Harris and Ed Moreno are the owners of Steel City Barbell, located at 1501 Route 51, just north of the Route 43 exit, right next to Steel City Chocolates.

Harris got his start as a 12-year-old youngster. His dad took him to a gym in Charleroi, where the family lived. “I was fascinated watching guys working out with such enormous amounts of weights,” he recalled. The rest is Jamie Harris, co-owner of the history, as in his heyday, Harris held the world newly opened Steel City Barbell in Jefferson Hills, is a tough guy, title as the strongest bench press in the world but not when it comes to his for six years. After Harris was done competing, Black Lab, Homer Jones. he spent some time trying out for professional wrestling but eventually returned to his first love – power lifting. He hopes his training facility helps to bring the spotlight back to lifting in the Pittsburgh area. “I’d love to see power lifting return to its golden age in western PA – the 80s and 90s when I was still competing,” he said.

Like Harris, Moreno shares the same passion for power lifting. “I’m an engineer by trade, but I’ve been powerlifting for many years now and have a great eye for top-end equipment. I am a stickler for offering our customers only the best equipment on the market today,” Moreno said.

Harris now trains power lifters, men and women, to work long and hard to see just how much weight they can squat, dead lift, and bench press. While half of Steel City Barbell is devoted to power lifting, the other half carries regular workout equipment found in a gym or rehab center. “As a personal trainer, I train a broad variety of people,” he said. “I help the young and old lose weight and provide physical therapy or mainstream weight training. I work with world-class athletes and individuals coping with MS.” Harris holds a master’s degree in exercise science from the International Sports Science Association, the highest degree attainable from the institute. He is the Director of Powerlifting Sciences for ISSA and has written the organization’s power lifting curriculum. He writes a monthly column for Powerlifting USA, which he respectfully refers to as “the Holy Grail of the power lifting industry” and also serves as a consultant to the industry. “I confer with manufacturers and distributors like GNC on new product development, branding, testing, wherever my experience is needed.”

Harris considers Steel City Barbell the ideal spot for a non-intimidating workout at an affordable price. A website is being developed, but you can find the company on Facebook at Steel City Barbell, or call Harris/Moreno for a tour of the facility or a training session at 412-758-2830.

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

unionfinley.com 27 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Delivering Community News to over 30,000 readers every month!

————————————————————————————————————————— 28 unionfinley.com

January 2012 BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS——————————————————————————————————————————

When “That will never happen to me” happens.

Megan Chicone, Agent 807 E. McMurray Road Venetia, PA 15367 Bus: 724-731-0700 www.meganchicone.com

I’m ready to help.

There’s never a g for an a

GET TO A BETTER STATE™.

CALL ME TODAY.

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

unionfinley.com 29 ——————————————————————————————————————————

HEALTH

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

HEALTH NUTRITION & FITNESS

A New You in the New Year: Mon Valley YMCA Offers Jam-Packed January Schedule for All Ages The Mon Valley YMCA has some exciting programs lined up beginning in January.

Don’t miss a beat with the start of the New Year!

Exercise classes begin on land and in the water January 2nd! We have morning and evening classes and babysitting is also available. We have everything from SilverSneaker classes to Zumba, yoga, cycling and everything else in between. Work off those holiday pounds at the Y! We can’t wait to see you! Did you know the YMCA has Corporate Wellness Memberships? Have your employer inquire about starting a wellness membership today! Call Jodi at 724-483-8077.

January is the time to start something new. Stick to your resolution with karate classes! Learn self-defense and get a great workout, too. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-8:00 p.m. These ongoing classes are open to anyone ages 6 and over. Make new friends and gain self confidence the YMCA way!

Calling all pre-schoolers! The Mon Valley YMCA will be taking registration for the 2012-2013 school year beginning in January. Registration opens for members and children currently participating in our Child Learning Center programs on Tuesday,

January 3. Registration for non-members and outside students opens on February 1st. Please call the Y at 724-483-8077 for more information.

Group swimming lessons begin the first week in February. Get a jump on the coming summer season early. Youth lessons are available on Monday or Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings. Sign up early, as classes fill quickly!

De-stress from the holidays with a relaxing massage. The Mon Valley YMCA is proud to partner with Chaney’s Natural to offer massage therapy. Call the Y today to schedule your relaxation appointment today!

Keep your little ones active all winter with Kinder-programs. Beginning the first week of February, youngsters ages 3-5 can enjoy Kinder Soccer - a fun way to learn the fundamentals of soccer, or Kinder Gym - an introduction to sports and ball handling while having a blast and being silly. Registration begins now!

Join us for a fun family night! Saturday Night Live meets January 14th from 6-9 p.m. Kids of all ages can swim, play games in the gym and enjoy a snack. Get out and spend time with the family the YMCA way!

! " ! #

$%% & ' ( ) *+,-.

————————————————————————————————————————— 30 unionfinley.com

HEALTH

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

Getting a Fresh Start: Mon Valley YMCA Adds New Class in January

Valley Health and Safety Training Center January Events

The Mon Valley YMCA is adding a new class for January to Balanced Body, their group fitness program. Fresh Start Fitness, held on Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. beginning January 4, is designed for those who are new to fitness but anxious to enjoy the health benefits of a regularly scheduled fitness regiment. Cardio Fit, held on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Fridays at 10:15 a.m., is another option for those needing a morning class. For those considering starting an exercise routine, Peggy Herforth, the Mon Valley YMCA Health and Fitness director, offers these tips: Most adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week.

Adults also need two or more days of strength training a week and stretching should follow every workout with emphasis on the muscles used in the activity.

Start slowly and build up gradually. Give yourself plenty of time to warm up and cool down with easy walking or gentle stretching. Then speed up to a pace you can continue for five to ten minutes without getting overly tired. As your stamina improves, gradually increase the amount of time you exercise. Work your way up to 30 to 60 minutes of exercise most days of the week.

Finding time to exercise can be a challenge. To make it easier, schedule time to exercise as you would any other appointment. Meet a friend at a scheduled time each week for a fitness class to keep each other on track. Friends motivate you to get to the gym, friends make it fun, and friends can challenge you to push yourself just a little bit farther than you might if you were working out alone.

Different activities (cross-training) can keep exercise boredom at bay. Cross-training also reduces your chances of injuring or overusing one specific muscle or joint.

Plan to alternate among activities that emphasize different parts of your body, such as walking, water exercise, dancing, biking and strength training.

Many people start exercising with frenzied zeal, working out too long or too intensely and give up when their muscles and joints become sore or injured. Plan time between sessions for your body to rest and recover.

A written plan may encourage you to stay on track. An exercise journal provides accountability and a means of encouragement. By reviewing your exercise journal, you will see patterns of how your strength is affected from each workout and make the necessary changes to maximize your progress.

Hiring a personal trainer can help you maximize your time while keeping you within your own limits so you don't overdo it. A trainer can also help you set goals and map out a specific schedule so you know when, how and where you'll fit in your workouts.

Once you've started a program listen to your body. If you feel pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or nausea, take a break. You may be pushing yourself too hard.

Starting an exercise program is an important decision. But it doesn't have to be an overwhelming one. By planning carefully and pacing yourself, you can establish a healthy habit that lasts a lifetime.

Valley Health and Safety Training Center will be holding the following courses: All class prices include the American Heart Association student book and appropriate completion card.

Healthcare Provider - will be held Saturday, January 14. Cost will be $60.00.

Class will start at 9 a.m. and finish around 1:00 p.m. Intended for nursing students, pre-hospital personnel, hospital personnel, life guards, doctors and will be held at the Monessen Ambulance Service at 1001 Donner Avenue in Monessen.

Participants must pre-register and pre-pay.

Heartsaver CPR Adult/Child/Infant and AED - will be held Tuesday, January 31, cost $40.00. Class will be held at the Monongahela Valley Hospital at the Lombardi Education Center. Class will start at 6:00 p.m. and finish around 9:00 p.m. The class is intended for lay persons, daycare centers, new parents, personnel care home employees, teachers and anyone wanting a basic understanding of CPR. Participants must pre-register and pre-pay.

Heartsaver First Aid/CPR/AED - will be held opposite Saturdays. Next class will be held Saturday, February 11, cost $60.00. This class is intended for anyone wanting the basic knowledge of CPR and Basic First Aid. Suitable for personnel care home workers, teachers and daycare center for adults and children and churches.

Class starts at 9 a.m. and finishes around 1:00 p.m. The class is held at Mon Valley EMS-1001 Donner Avenue, Monessen. Students must pre-register and pre pay.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - class will begin in March 5. The classes are every Monday and Wednesday with an occasional Saturday. Classes are from 6 p.m. till 10 p.m. The class is sponsored by the Westmoreland County Community College. Cost of the class is $225.00 plus books. The tuition is subject to change as it gets closer to the class. You must be 16 years of age to take the class. Anyone interested give the training center a call and an application will be mailed to you.

The next Healthcare Provider for BLS will be offered in March 2012.

Thank you for supporting Valley Health and Safety Training Center in 2011 and for scheduling your classes. We appreciate your business and it is good to know that our communities know CPR. We have trained over 3,000 people in CPR/AED/First Aid in 2011 and look forward to doubling that in 2012. The more our communities know about CPR/AED and first aid, the more we can help one in other and help to save lives.

Any business wishing CPR/AED/FA for their employees can call the training center at 724-684-9536.

We would be happy to train your employees so they may help fellow workers and patrons of your businesses. Please note that all classes must have a least two paid students or the class will be canceled and you will be notified.

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

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

Franciscan Spirit and Life Center Offers Tai Chi in South Hills In January, the Franciscan Spirit and Life Center in Whitehall will offer introductory and advanced Tai Chi classes, taught by certified Tai Chi instructor and movement analyst Gurney Bolster, MA, DTR. There will be one eight-week Thursday morning and two six-week Tuesday evening sessions available in both beginner and advanced levels.

The Franciscan Sprit and Life Center is located at 3605 McRoberts Road in Whitehall on the campus of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God. A six-week Tai Chi class morning series is $30 and an Eight-week class evening series is $40.

For class schedules or to register, please contact Mimi DiGregory at 412-881-9207 or mdigregory@osfprov.org.

HEALTH

unionfinley.com 31 ——————————————————————————————————————————

A PRETTY SNAPSHOT. Without the right eyes, that’s all an x-ray is.

Understanding Emotional Eating Licensed clinical social worker Elizabeth Babcock, MSW, LCSW, BCD, will present an Understanding Emotional Eating program at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 18 in the McNary Conference Center at Canonsburg General Hospital. In this seminar, participants will explore why most people struggle with unhealthy urges to eat and why diets predictably fail (it’s the diets, not you). Whether you come to participate or simply listen, this information will help you understand why you’re stuck where you are, and what you can start doing right now to begin building the relationship you want with food.

Learn strategies you can begin using today to begin increasing your balance with food. To register for this free program, call Physician Access at 1-877-284-2000.

The expertise of more than 150 physician radiologists at over 40 convenient and comprehensive imaging services locations.

1-800-533-UPMC • UPMC.com/WeSee MRI • CT • ULTRASOUND (GENERAL & VASCULAR) • X-RAY Same-day and evening hours.

WE DON’T JUST LOOK. WE SEE.

WEST MIFFLIN SITE NOW OPEN Private waiting areas • Friendly staff • State-of-the-art technology • Free parking

UPMC West Mifflin – 1907 Lebanon Church Rd.

————————————————————————————————————————— 32 unionfinley.com

HEALTH

Learn to Eat Well for Your Health at PT Library Program Is one of your New Year’s Resolutions for 2012 to eat better for your health, for more energy, or to lose weight? Sample delicious foods to help you on your mission at Fabulous Recipes for Vibrant Health on Thursday, January 12, at 7 p.m. at the Peters Township Public Library. $10 program fee for food samples. Presenting the program will be Janet McKee, Board Certified Holistic Health Counselor and certified member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. The recipes to be sampled at the program are part of a collection of over 100 recipes that promote energy, vitality, and longevity that McKee has compiled and self-published. Copies will be available for purchase at the program for $15. Cash, checks, or credit cards will be accepted; no Amex, Discover, or debit cards.

Blurred Vision?

TOLD YOU HAVE CATARACTS?

412-466-6800 Dr. Thomas Findlan

www.pitteye2020.com

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

MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL JANUARY EVENTS Monongahela Valley Hospital is sponsoring a variety of informative programs during January. Many of the events will be held in the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center (ECC) unless otherwise noted.

ARTHRITIS SUPPORT GROUP – Wednesday, January 18, at 1 p.m., ECC. The Arthritis Support Group is free and open to all persons with arthritis or related illnesses and their families. For more information, call 724-258-1321.

Innovations in Smoking Cessation – Wednesday, January 4, at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. Vasu Malepati, MD, an ear, nose, and throat specialist on staff at MVH, will discuss smoking cessation. This program is part of MVH’s Innovations series featuring physician guest speakers providing medical information to the community.

To register, call the MVH Reservation Hotline at 724-258-1333.

ADVANCED CARBOHYDRATE COUNTING – Wednesday, January 18, from 9 – 11 a.m., ECC. Diabetes self-management class that focuses on carb counting with everything you need to know.

Topics range from how to measure the upward drive each meal has on blood sugar to information on the glycemic index. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self-Management Training is required prior to attending this class.

Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of the class. To register, call 724-258-1148.

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION CLASS – Wednesday, January 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. A four-week series of prenatal education classes designed to prepare couples for the birthing process. Topics include signs of labor, vaginal and c-section deliveries, role of the labor coach, comfort measures including breathing and relaxation skills, and pain medication options. Couples will rehearse what they learn in class to help relieve anxiety surrounding the birthing experience. Classes are free to Valley Women’s Health patients, and a small fee applies to non-patients.

Please call 724-258-BABY (2229) to register.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP – Thursday, January 5, at 1 p.m., ECC. The Stroke Support Group is designed for patients and caregivers to share, learn, and grow with people who can personally relate to the challenges and struggles they face on a daily basis dealing with stroke and its aftereffects. For more information, call 724-258-1455.

RSDS SUPPORT GROUP – Tuesday, January 10, at 11 a.m., ECC. The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Support Group is free and open to all persons with RSDS or related illnesses. For more information, call 724-929-9492.

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES – Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, January 10 – 12, from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., ECC. A three-day, two-hour-per-day education series that focuses on diabetes selfmanagement and care. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of classes. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1483.

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES – Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, January 24 – 26, from 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. A three-day, two-hour per day education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of classes. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1483.

ADULT FIRST AID – Thursday, January 26, from 6 – 9 p.m. Adult first aid classes are offered by the hospital in conjunction with the Valley Health and Safety Training Center. The $30 fee is payable to VHSTC, and advance registration is required at 724684-9536.

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

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

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

unionfinley.com 33 ——————————————————————————————————————————

HEALTH

Zdilla Family Chiropractic Offers New Body-Shaping Technology to Clients Dr. Michael Zdilla, of Zdilla Family Chiropractic, believes you deserve a healthier, happier new year.

At his Belle Vernon office, located on Broad Avenue, Dr. Zdilla not only provides superior chiropractic care for muscle, nerve and joint pain, but also nutritional counseling, vitamin supplements, headache, stress, and sinus relief, and most recently, the Lipo-Light Advanced Sliming and Toning system.

The new Lipo-Light program is the latest treatment in the non-invasive body shaping market. This program uses non-painful, non-surgical, scientifically proven heat and light that will naturally slim and tone your problem areas when combined with exercise and a healthy diet.

Lipo-Light has a positive effect on those areas where body sculpting can prove difficult, including the waist, hips, thighs, chin, buttocks and arms.

This allows the patient to lose inches, but only where they want.

“Patients have lost from 4 to 22 total inches from their waist, hips, thighs, arms and belly. Lipo-Light is safe, easy, and effective. Both men and women gain confidence while losing inches,” said Dr. Zdilla.

Dr. Zdilla explained the science behind the phenomenon. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Lipo-Light stimulates the fat cell to emulsify (liquefy) the fat within the cell. Then the liquefied fat moves from inside the cell through a temporary pore formed in the cell membrane to outside the cell where it is in the interstitial space until absorbed by the lymphatic system. This results in millions of fat cells becoming smaller so inches are reduced off the waist, hips, and thighs.

The fat cells are not injured in any way by this process. It is 100% noninvasive and causes no bruising, scarring, side effects or downtime. Patients can resume normal activities immediately following each treatment.

“Patients actually state how they enjoy the comfortable warming sensation from Lipo-Light.

Some have even used their time to take a well needed nap,” said Dr. Zdilla.

Dr. Zdilla follows a standard program of 8 sessions, twice per week for 4 weeks.

Services are provided at the Belle Vernon Dr. Michael Zdilla, of Zdilla Family Chiropractic office as well as in ropractic services to include the LipoGreentree.

Dr Zdilla’s primary focus is to provide Light sliming and toning regimen. The patients with the highest possible quali- new year calls for a new you!”

For more information, please visit Dr. ty care. “Diet, exercise, environment and heredity all contribute to a person’s Zdilla’s website at http://zfchiro.com or well-being. I strive to maximize the contact Dr. Zdilla at 724-929-6777 or at overall function of the entire body, not drzdilla@yahoo.com, or stop by the merely address the symptoms,” said Dr. office located at 540 Broad Ave. Suite 1 Zdilla. “I am excited to expand my chi- in Belle Vernon.

EXPRESS SERVICE. UPMC CARE. CONVENIENT LOCATION. It’s never been easier to get fast, expert care from the region’s leader in health care.

• Express care for illness and injury, including colds, the flu, rashes, stitches, and fractures • No appointments necessary • Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• 7 days a week • Board-certified physicians • Free parking • Convenient payment options; most insurance accepted

3515 Washington Road, Suite 550 • McMurray, PA 15317 724-969-4321 • UPMC.com/UrgentCare

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

————————————————————————————————————————— 34 unionfinley.com

HOME & GARDEN

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

Sponsored by

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller UNION TOWNSHIP Rose Marie Donovan Estate of Nancy Kennel Shawn Bowen Jacqueline Gricar Stella Dunbar et al.

Robell Revocable Trust

SEND US YOUR NEWS! Mail: Union-Finley Messenger, P.O. Box 103 Finleyville, PA 15332

Phone or Fax: 412.249.8177

Email: news@unionfinley.com

JEFFERSON HILLS

Address

Price

Steven Malyuk Janet Janiga Nellie Klink

686 Route 837 $38,000 3488B Frye Ave. $88,000 318 Stone Church Road $488,000 6239 Brownsville Road $1,063 by sheriff's deed.

4038 Finleyville Elrama Road $75,000 Limetown Gillhall Road $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $7,035) Curtis George 2487 SR 88 $181,000 Robert Fausnaught et al. and Jennifer Combes Snowden Road $55,000 Richard and Marilyn Van Lenten 115 Stone Brae Drive $222,000

FINLEYVILLE BOROUGH Mary Paver

Shana Michael

3111 School Place

$78,000

MONONGAHELA James Bayan John Patrick Lundy Patrick Frye Record Properties LLC Harry Miale Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. James Klapka

Peter Leoni August and Brenda Necciai Nicolina Trotta Matthew and Elizabeth Gamble Edward and Lorie Barnes Gregg Goettle Thomas Lach

1212 Fifth Ave. 793 E. Railroad St. Stanton St. 312 Meade St. 711 Meade St. 512 Hiland Ave. 214 Walnut St.

$89,000 $10,000 $5,800 $143,500 $179,900 $19,000 $31,000

NEW EAGLE David Lance Robert Kepics

Citimortgage Inc. Maria Eloisa Arroyo

505 Maderia St. 422 Main St.

$1,188 by sheriff's deed. $41,000

CARROLL TOWNSHIP Estate of Bernice Todd Ross Garcia US Bank NA John Vrabel

Christopher Squires Dennis and Sandra Butler Opportunity Inc. Trucap REO Corp.

1345 Country Club Road 20 Grant Road 2 Columbia Road 71 Donora Road

$127,500 $40,000 $38,866 $92,590 by sheriff's deed

DRAVOSBURG

MONONGAHELA ARLINGTON

Buyer Sherman Fitch Lisa Hollingsworth John and Diane Varner PNC Mortgage Tracy and Pamela Miller Four Swans L.P.

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP

CALIFORNIA

MONONGAHELA

CARRICK

DONORA

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

HOME & GARDEN

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Becky McCullough Robert Cosgrove Penny Hoak Rebecca Presto Robert Bernardo Jr. Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Thomas Ludolff

Federal National Mortgage Corp.

Kate Levdansky and Joseph Snyder Richard and Wendy Roessler Mark Oehmler and Janice Kosko Ronald and Dianne Feschuk Thomas Laird Martin and Judith Gassner

ELIZABETH BOROUGH Alex Marcoff James Christenson trustee Evelyn Folk Jason Snelbaker

Terry Gouker Brittain Gorman Nicky Bova Brian and Christopher Greenawalt

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Melissa Kolick et al.

Robert Denitti

Anthony Tomko Estate of Glenn Hettler William Pavlack Estate of William Richel Chad Withers Estate of John Papincak Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trustee Maronda Homes Inc. Jay Hoar Mary Zecchini Rosa Fontanesi Benedetti Family Trust Barbara Paskin Investments Inc. Anna Martinelli

Kevin and Melissa Jones Jason Rea John Walsh Leroy Pemberton Joshua Coughanour Ralph and Patricia Imbrogno Ryan Murtha Megan and Adam Chasin Albert Edward Beckman Tanya Partyka Justin Bradley Robert and Donna Grimes Fitzpatrick Enterprises LLC John and Bonnie Vukovich

Robert Guffey

Greenbriar Investment Co. LLC

FORWARD TOWNSHIP Estate of Betty Robb Michael Faychak Jr. Charlotte Burgan Ernest Dusi CLAIRTON Franco Mannarino et al.

Ernest Anderson et al.

Victor DeSimone Robert Waldier Foreclosure Depot LLC Andko Properties LLC Housing & Urban Development Carmen Gioia AHI Development Inc. AHI Development Inc. Arthur Buzzatto Louis Loretta Estate of Helen Woodruff

Address

unionfinley.com 35 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Sponsored by Price

27 Prosperity St. 114 Tower St. 113 Greenridge Drive Craven Drive 48 Prosperity St. 1205 Center Ave. 111 Garden Ave.

$1,084 by sheriff's deed $146,000 Now find $114,000 R e $50,000 from transact alStats ions your $93,000 c omm $27,200 our u www website! nity on $96,500 .

Searc unionfinle Visit Trans h our R y.com.

319 S. Third Ave. $76,000 eal acti 205 Locust St. $75,000 curre ons page Estate n and f t and 716 Fifth Ave. $15,000 i n a home rchive d 5-7 Maple Ave. $4,400 d sales .

100 Klondike St. $10,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $46,449) by sheriff's deed 1027 Andover Drive $75,000 91 Duncan Station Road $98,500 604 Elizabeth Ave. $62,900 5826 Holsing St. $25,000 114 Howell St. $119,900 610 Oberdick Drive $100,000 116 Trenton Place $55,000 310 Kennett Drive $217,530 119 Elway St. $31,000 206 McLay Drive $124,900 2117 Lawnview Drive $94,340 204 Narragansett Drive $155,000 504 Park Ave. $100,000 2172 Smithdale Road $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $22,230) 100 Weiglels Hill Road $12,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $96,525) by sheriff's deed.

Steven Lewis and Patricia Garry Jonathan Stallard Valerie and Joshua Myers Franklin and Bobbe Jean Krznaric

4926 Williamsport Road 6281 Pleasant View Drive 6268 Pleasant View Drive 4685 Williamsport Road

Prime PA Properties LLC Corey Hornfeck Martin and Bernadette Dennis Stephen Michael Vehec BJSJC LLC LAM Capital LLC Craig Joseph and Jennifer Luttringer Debra and Kenneth Ross Andrew Borriello Andrew Borriello Everbank Satori Enterprises LLC Doris Protz

706 East Drive 260 Maple Ave. 440 St. Clair Ave. 461 Carnegie Ave. 344 Mitchell Ave. 523 N. Fourth St. 318 New York Ave. 1040 N. Sixth St. 3303 Miles Ave. 3304 Miles Ave. 909 Vankirk St. 438 Baker Ave. 445 Carnegie Ave.

$98,000 $118,500 $93,500 $10,000 $24,000 $50,200 $17,500 $34,900 $11,900 $40,000 $15,000 $19,000 $3,500 $3,500 $1,812 by sheriff's deed $10,000 $18,900

Want to know what your house is worth? Call me!

3523 Washington Avenue Finleyville, PA 15332

Office 724.348.7470

Fax 724.348.8707 • Cell 724.348.8028 Each office is independently owned and operated

Email: marianne@century21.com www.c21frontier.com

————————————————————————————————————————— 36 unionfinley.com

HOME & GARDEN

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

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Doctors of Carpetology We make house calls • Carpets, Ceramics, Vinyl & Hardwood • Family owned and operated • Residential & commercial • Financing available • Fully insured 3584 Washington Ave. Finleyville, PA 15332

724-348-8422 SM

MITCHELL

Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Inc.

Providing Excellent Service For More Than 50 Years.

Complete Bathroom Remodeling; Service and Repair; Sewer and Drain Cleaning; Furnace and A/C Installations

mitchellplumbing.com

OUR 24 HGENCY EMERRVICE SE PLEASANT HILLS BETHEL PARK

UPPER ST. CLAIR MCMURRAY

MON VALLEY

412-653-1855 724-941-7360 724-258-9411

Christopher Thomas Louis Pacich SOUTH PARK Richard Hammack Park Place Apartments LLC Amy Coglio Frank Zupancic Andrea Joubert Wadwell Group Curtis Gee James Sypherd William Grob Anna Masci et al.

John Lehrman Peter Allen Besteman Donald Seckel Michael Musillo PLEASANT HILLS New Wine Harvest Church Estate of Cheryl Ann Leon Estate of Josephine Loose Estate of Claude Goode 60 Terence LLC William Voorhis Melissa Licht William Race Jr. US Bank NA trustee Timothy Goralski Richard Guriel JEFFERSON HILLS Castor Farm Assoc. Inc.

Buyer

Price

Tachoir Properties LLC Harry and Maureen Minford

821 N. Sixth St. 913 Worthington Ave.

John Skapinac Park Place South Park Apartment Homes LL Richard Stasny Jr. and Heather Stasny Joseph Zupancic Clarence and Leah Seese Heartland Homes Inc. Dayna Sikora Sierra Nevada Inv Trust #1006600 Ellen and James Hancovsky Joyner Perez Paul and Kim Dykes Angela Ross and John Schwartz Jr. Jill Pozycki and Ryan Hicks Wells Fargo Bank NA

2835 Dolores Drive $187,000 1700 Patrick Place $11,500,000 1362 Snee Drive $163,000 Snowden Road $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $33,625) 1636 Princess Lane $225,000 1199 Snee Drive $68,000 113 Sylvania Drive $128,750 6600 Verna St. $22,000 2529 Bonnie Dell Drive $50,000 938 Broglie Drive $175,000 4125 High St. $208,000 1330 Royal Park Blvd. $157,900 1350 Royal Park Blvd. $139,900 1413 Royal Park Blvd. $1,634 by sheriff's deed

Freedom Life Center Inc. Eric and Lisa Proie Michael and Sarah Korhnak Renee Evans Biniansteel LLC William Marnell and Brittany Gawlas Clearvue Opportunity 4 LLC Adam Seelman Gary Raymond Holly and William Kutscher Melvin Turner Jr.

268 Old Clairton Road 185 Revere Drive 360 Dutch Lane 16 E. Bruceton Road 60 Terence Drive 241 Old Clairton Road 333 Millet Lane 485 Torwood Lane 130 Betty Rae Drive 400 Sabbath Drive 133 Temona Drive

Scott and Lynn McCullough

4020 Castor Lane

Over 2,000 area businesses and organizations have advertised in this newspaper.

Isn’t it about time that yours did too?

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more.

412.249.8177

Address

Sponsored by $13,000 $20,000

$237,600 $110,000 $169,500 $121,000 $651,000 $117,500 $1,620 by sheriff's deed $91,500 $40,050 $159,000 $139,900 $65,000

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

HOME & GARDEN

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

unionfinley.com 37 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Sponsored by

Address

Price

James Luffy Fred Aheimer Alice Miller NVR Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. Estate of Dori Mischick Patricia Mance et al.

Robert Nyswaner trustee

Alice Miller Carolyn Beattie Shaun Cusick Brian and Jill Fernandes Jeffrey and Adeline Ganley Frank Bolcic Jr. Justin Gebert Four Swans L.P.

Chad Appelt Taressa Jenyca Wills Brock Urlakis Maronda Homes Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. John Keun Sang Lee John Thatcher Willard Rockwell NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP Ronald Lindley et al.

Deborah Deal Bryan Clark Robert Van Voorhis Jr. PETERS TOWNSHIP Stambrosky Homes Inc. Kathleen Bonetti Beverly Edwards Wadwell Group Patricia Robinson NVR Inc. Ross Paullet et al.

Douglas Sherratt Heartland Homes Inc. Heartland Homes Inc. Peters Twp Land Co. LLC Alef Gutierrez Weichert Relocation Resouces Inc. Heartland Homes Inc. Patricia Elmore T. Brian Welden Connie Bier Gerry Benson Mark Winningham Maigan Daley Van Ackeren Stephen Brenan MD Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Daniel Coyle Hardy Credit Financing L.P. David Palko Carol Cressler Matt Tomlinson Aaron Gatten Citizens Savings Bank Robert Ihrig Jr. George Watkins Jr. NVR Inc. Estate of Howard Gebhardt Gediminas Naujokaitis Estate of Judith Dobscha Douglas Mackey Peters Twp Land Co. LLC Jeffrey Brncic James McDade Citimortgage Inc. Brian Cabe James Hustler James Bowen Linda Taylor Jeffrey Zewe Estate of Newton Teichmann

Erik Jabs Mary Ellen Haley Kevin and Taressa Wills Larry and Judy Williams David and Mary Schwerer James and Sharon Huber Amina and Manzoor Mohideen Brian Thatcher Lawrence and Cheryl Trainer

4322 Harlin Drive $262,000 6394 Jefferson Pointe Circle $210,000 320 Stettler Drive $385,000 6011 Independence Drive $271,395 273 Pointer Drive $323,850 1500 Worthington Ave. $125,000 352 Wray Large Road $100,000 State St. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $40,950) 118 Wray Drive $185,000 6020 Claire Valley Court $205,000 720 Acorn Lane $265,000 14 Beagle Court $251,390 22 Beagle Court $244,940 28 Beagle Court $366,347 605 Hidden Oak Drive $500,000 Hillview Road $47,000 802 Old Clairton Road $143,000

Kevin and Colleen Lucas Kathleen Bonetti Andrew Swoyer Jr. and Deborah Swoyer Tod and Mary Ann Pike

Sugar Run Road 63 Sugar Run Road 267 Arrowhead Lane 1280 Sugar Run Road

Donna Ann Benvenuto 300 Braeburn Drive Paul Borchick Jr. and Maxine Borchick 129 Gateshead Drive Eric and Lynn Hutchison 110 Lexington Drive NVR Inc. McIntosh Drive David Bernard Jr. and Stephanie Bernard 107 Mt. Blaine Drive Brian Hyjurick and Emily Powell Hyjurick 643 Scenic Ridge Drive Joshua Beck 467 Sylvania Drive Kenneth Dupre 306 Abbey Brook Lane Christopher and Heidi Todd 801 Ashwood Drive Nickalas and Rachel Watsula 807 Ashwood Drive Stambrosky Homes Inc. 302 Braeburn Drive Weichert Relocation Resouces Inc. 113 Bridle Trail Desmond and Shauna Murphy 113 Bridle Trail Dana Radcliffe 713 Chadwick Drive Valerie Coughenour 134 E. Edgewood Drive Jamison and Christie Dixon 308 Fox Run Drive Cheryl Sutton 107 Hemlock Drive David and Gina Offermann 507 Kingston Circle Garrett Mehl and Hollie Eggebraatan 102 Raffael Drive Michael Brewster and Jennifer Craig Brewster 149 Thomas Road BMO Harris Bank NA 112 Wild Briar Drive Vassil Prokhov et al. and Branka Prokhov 101 Windson Court Judith Flick 341 Bellwait Drive Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC 338 Buckingham Drive Kevin and Tracey Watson 328 Buffalo Ridge Road John and Rina Edwards 129 Driftwood Drive Kevin Allan and Tara Lea Dively 386 Pine Ridge Drive William and Elizabeth Perri 118 Spring Meadows Drive Daniel and Jill Schar 124 Alexander Drive Wayne and Margo Downey 112 Creekside Court Arch Bay Holdings LLC 111 Joyce Drive Michael and Krista Gardner 115 McIntosh Drive Renee Gilmer 231 Ridgeview Drive Sarah Locke and Christopher Manly 130 W. Edgewood Drive John and Molly Karlovich 105 Abington Drive Richard and Lois Watkins 230 Bower Hill Road Stambrosky Homes Inc. 314 Braeburn Drive Mark Milo 420 Center Church Road Richard Beinhauer 525 Circle Drive Victor and Susan Bayani 121 Hardwood Drive Menas and Sarah Roumbakis 113 Horizon Drive Charles and Nancy Gallagher 120 Lindenvale Drive Bert and Mara Sciulli 1131 Moccasin Drive Bryan and Hilary Clark 633 Sagewood Drive Patrick and Heather Mazzotta 101 Spruce Drive Henry F Teichmann Inc. 3009-3015 Washington Road

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

$685,000 $680,000 $392,000 $355,000 $790,000 $339,900 $454,000 $80,000 $260,000 $326,735 $183,500 $560,000 $567,127 $543,820 $140,000 $526,250 $487,000 $544,013 $215,000 $450,000 $165,000 $507,500 $276,000 $200,000 $1,051 by sheriff's deed $719,900 $285,000 $145,000 $390,000 $378,000 $307,000 $460,000 $230,000 $324,500 $1,607 by sheriff's deed $352,505 $243,000 $132,500 $180,000 $175,000 $140,000 $149,000 $519,247 by sheriff's deed $550,000 $448,000 $179,500 $615,000 $540,000 $265,000 $1,200,000

————————————————————————————————————————— 38 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Alternative Service and Time, Comes in the New Year, to Hamilton Presbyterian Church in Bethel Park If getting to church is among your New Year's resolutions, Hamilton’s Alternative Service may be what keeps you inspired and from breaking that resolution.

Starting on Sunday January 8, 2012 and each Sunday thereafter at 7:00 p.m., the Reverend Emily Miller will lead the “Alternative Worship Service”. Some of the other differences from the traditional service will be that this service will be informal, and outside the pulpit. Also Communion will be offered more often than in traditional Presbyterian services. There will be music appropriate to the service each Sunday, provided by musicians. Most of the music will be contemporary with some traditional hymns set to a new musical beat.

If the Traditional early Sunday morning service and time are not working for you, or if getting to Church is going to be a New Year's Resolution, or you just want another choice for Worshiping. All are welcome to come to this Alternative Service and Time, no matter what your beliefs, creed or church affiliation. The Church is in Bethel Park at the corner of Baptist and Hamilton Rd. You may phone 412-884-2722 or visit our website, hamiltonpresbyterian.org with any questions.

St. Francis of Assisi Kids Perform Christmas Pageant

By Paul Chasko

How many Christmas pageants were performed by kids throughout the U.S. last month—thousands, hundreds of thousands, perhaps a million? I certainly hope so. Our increasingly secular society and government needs to be reminded often that we are still “one nation under God,” just as our forefathers believed and intended.

The Little Town of Bethlehem, as depicted by This first chapter of the greatest the children of St. Francis of Assisi Church in their Christmas pageant. story ever told to us needs to live on forever and being a part of the story seems to be better than just reading about it. In this spirit, the children of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Finleyville (with some grown-up help) performed their pageant on December 17 in St. Francis’ Finley Hall. The kids were kind of hard to hear in the back rows, but we all had a pretty good idea of what they were saying. They worked hard to learn their parts and put on a great reenactment of the first Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, the angels, shepherds, the Christmas. The costumes and Three Wise Men – they’re all here–the animals as well. stage set were great. The kids and their religious education teachers did a great job, and I’m certain the parents had a big hand in the performance as well.

Go to our website at www.unionfinley.com for more photos of this event.

St. Paul's Anglican Church Hosts Fish Fry January 27 and During Lent St Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St, Monongahela, will hold a Fish Fry from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, January 27; Ash Wednesday, February 22; and all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available.

Fish, shrimp, crab cakes, baked fish dinners, fish sandwiches, soups, coleslaw, French fries, fried zucchini strips, homemade desserts, and beverages. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

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

unionfinley.com 39 LOCAL WORSHIP UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Area Church News... Area Church News... Area Church News... Area Church News...

January Events at Center Presbyterian Church in McMurray Center Presbyterian Church, located at 255 Center Church Road in McMurray, has worship services every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. with Communion. January Dates: • Worship services are held every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. except on January 1 (11 a.m. service only).

• Children and adult Sunday school classes meet every Sunday at 9:45 a.m.

• Central Blood Bank accepts blood donationsevery Thursday and Saturday.

• The Center Christian Preschool program has classes for children ages 2 - 5 Monday through Friday. Please call Bonnie Kline for more information.

• The Church Auction Committee e to become part of the church music ministry as a choir or ensemble member, please contact Linda Boice.

• Our church library has over 1,500 books available for checkout.

• Junior and senior high groups meet Sunday evenings.

Center Presbyterian Church supports several missions and outreach groups, including Girl Scouts, Family Promise/Interfaith Hospitality Network, AA meetings, Relay for Life, and play groups for children with Down’s syndrome. For more information, please call the church office 724941-9050.

January Events at South Hills Assembly of God Church South Hills Assembly of God Church, 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park plans the following events for January. For more information, call 412-835-8900 or visit www.southhillsassembly.org.

Nothing’s Too Hard For God, the Sunday sermon series taught at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. by Pastor Jack Stepp, continues Sunday, January 1, with “No Addiction is Too Strong.” A new topic will be taught the first Sunday of every month. Future topics are: No Form of Loneliness is Too Overwhelming, No

Illness is Too Difficult, No Loss is Too Devastating, No Financial Need is Too Large, and No Fear is Too Great. Come and hear these messages of hope, faith, and life!

Care for Caregivers, an Alzheimer's support group, is held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, January 7, and the first Saturday of each month. The group is affiliated with the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter of Alzheimer’s Association. All family members coping with Alzheimer’s disease and related memory disorders are welcome to attend. The goal of the Alzheimer’s Association affiliated support groups is to provide families with updated information, emotional support, and problem solving in the challenges of caregiving.

Register now for The International School of Ministry. Enjoy great teaching from internationally known preachers and Bible teachers. Fourth trimester evening class will be held Mondays, 6:30-9:30 p.m. beginning January 9.

Earn a degree ($65/trimester) or audit these DVD Bible classes for free. Please register now so books can be ordered.

Two new sessions of GriefShare, led

by Pastor Pat Sutton, begin in January with evening classes held on Tuesdays from 7 - 9 p.m. beginning January 10, and daytime classes held on Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. beginning January 12. This bereavement support group provides non-denominational support for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Classes run 13 weeks. You can join any time and return for any of the classes you missed. Cost is $15 and includes workbook. Let us help you through this difficult time.

Open House for new adult classes begins at 7 pm on Wednesday, January 11. There, you will get to try out three small group classes for 15 minutes each to help you choose which class is right for you. Actual classes begin Wednesday, January 18, and run through April. Topics include Divorce Care, The Conspiracy of Kindness, Soul Care, Marriage Preparation, Single and Parenting, Fly Tying; Being Led by the Spirit, Sanctuary Bible Class on 1 & 2 Thessalonians, Weight Loss: Giving Christ 1st Place, and

Workshop Guys.

HonorBound Men’s Ministry will hold a free men’s fellowship breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, January 14. Enjoy breakfast, testimonies, and fellowship, with a Biblical message for men. All males young and old are invited; dads, bring your sons!

Shekinah Glory, internationally renowned music ministry trio, returns at 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 15; 7 p.m. on Monday, January 16; and 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 17 to minister the Gospel through song with demonstrations of the Holy Spirit.

Enthroned! A Hearts to Worship Women’s Ministry Events will be held from 7-9 p.m. Friday, January 20.

Praise and worship by Paul Housman and team. Childcare is available; please pre-register by January 15.

John McMillan Presbyterian Church January Events John McMillan Presbyterian Church welcomes families of all denominations and is located at 875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park.

Open House - Families of all denominations are welcome to attend the Preschool Open House on Saturday, January 28. Children ages 2 through 5 are welcome, also to visit the new Kindergarten Plus program, an enrichment group for those enrolled in local kindergarten classes. The teachers will be anxiously awaiting the opportunity

to meet prospective new students from 9 a.m. until noon. This will mark the first day that registration opens to Bethel families, as well as families from South Park, Peters Township, Finleyville and other neighboring areas. Contact Pat Folino at 412-8334704 or via email at JMPCPreschool@ yahoo.com if you have questions.

Kindergarten Plus Kindergarten Enrichment Program - Is your kindergarten child in need of more activity before or after school? Does she or he need more social, math or literacy skills to build confidence in Kindergarten? Maybe Mom needs a few more hours to herself during the day? John McMillan has a solution to these situations. Locally enrolled kindergarten children may enroll for either one or two half days of programing per week and will engage in activities such as measuring and comparing snowflakes, designing and building a home for a hibernating animal, or predicting and measuring which frozen item will melt more quickly. Each class also will offer physical activities and games. Class sizes are limited to fewer than 10 children, so enroll early to avoid being shut out of the classes that best meets your child’s schedule. Classes begin with an introductory class during the week of January 26. Contact Pat Folino at the preschool 412-833-4704 or by email JMPCPreschool@yahoo.com for more information.

SEND US YOUR CHURCH NEWS!

Email: news@unionfinley.com

————————————————————————————————————————— 40 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

ASK ASK the

EXPERTS

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

THESE AREA SERVICE PROVIDERS ARE HERE TO ANSWER ALL YOUR QUESTIONS...

If you have questions for our expert, send your questions to UNION FINLEY MESSENGER, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 or e-mail news@unionfinley.com

PODIATRY & FOOT CARE

A: Crafting furniture is like cooking: the better ingredients you use, the better the finished result. That's why Flexsteel takes such great care in selecting the materials used in building sofas, sleepers, recliners, and motion furniture. Our exclusive blue steel seat spring design has "Pothole" been delivering unmatched comfort and durability since Highway Appliances 1927. And unlike eight way hand-tied springs, it never needs retying or replacing to keep you from getting that sinking feeling years from now.

State-of-the-art cross-grain laminated hardwoods let us create frames so strong you can count on them for a lifetime - we guarantee it. Flexsteel fabrics have passed demanding tests for fading, pilling and wearability. Our leathers are available in your choice of finishes, from practical, easy-care choices to luxuriously soft aniline dyes. Over 1,000 different fabrics and leathers to choose from.

Visit Highway Appliance and experience the Flexsteel quality for yourself.

Q: What is a podiatrist?

A: A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), also known as a podiatric physician or surgeon, qualified by their education and training to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Podiatrists are uniquely qualified among medical professionals to treat the foot and ankle based on their education, training and experience.

Podiatrists receive medical education and training comparable to the medical doctors, including four years of undergraduate education, four years of graduate education at one of eight accredited podiatric medical colleges and two or three of hospital residency training.

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

Dr. Charles Michael Irvin, DPM

REAL ESTATE

What problems do podiatrists treat?

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

What type of foot procedures can be performed at a surgical center?

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

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

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

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

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

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

A: THE WRONG PRICE! A home that is priced too high will end up selling for a distressed price rather than a fair Pat Alfano price. A correct price is based on a number of factors, includAssociate Broker Monongahela Office ing recent sales of comparable homes in your area, current 724-262-1040 market trends, and your home’s condition.

List the price right and your home will be exposed to a greater number of buyers, which leads to higher offers and ultimately, the maximum selling price for you!

Buyers are wary of homes that have been on the market for a long time and will assume they know the reason.

A Northwood Real Estate Professional will help you take an objective marketbased approach to pricing. Call us today for a free competitive analysis.

Pleasant Hills Office 5301 Clairton Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412-885-8530

Peters Township Office 4215 Washington Road McMurray, PA 15301 724-941-3340

Monongahela Office 214 West Main Street Monongahela, PA 15063 724-292-1040

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

unionfinley.com 41 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Death Notices

PLUMBING Q: The recent water scare has me thinking of purchasing some type of filtration for my home.

Any suggestions?

A: The water you use today is the same water that was on earth 3 billion years ago, and it's been recycled time and time again. I would think that, over time, the way we have polluted the earth, water is bound to have many impurities in it. I also think that our water authorities do a great job purifying our water. For every water intake into a treatment plant, there are many more sewage Tim Bartman plants that dump their discharge water into the same river that we Owner Bartman’s One Hour need for our water. Makes you think, doesn't it? Flush your toilet, Heating & Air Conditioning turn on the faucet, you’re getting recycled water.

Sometimes the way our water is treated causes other problems. Take chlorine for an example. It is a necessary additive to the water to kill forms of biological agents, such as bacteria and viruses. The problem is that chlorine is harmful to us weather we drink it or bath in it. you don't want it in the water, but there is no feasible technology at this time to replace it.

Once it gets to your house, it should be removed, but how?

We use a water treatment system called Nature’s Miracle. It effectively removes chemicals like chlorine, arsenic, lead, mercury and many more. At the same time it leaves the natural minerals like calcium and magnesium that we need for healthy living. Nature’s Miracle uses no chemicals and requires no maintenance for 6 to 8 years. I have one in my home and I love it. The water taste great at all the faucets in the house, our clothes fell softer, and my skin is not all itchy and dried out.

Some other products available are: ∑ Water softeners which soften the water by removing calcium and magnesium bicarbonate and replace them sodium (salt). They are a lot of maintenance and do not remove harmful chemicals. ∑ Reverse osmosis removes a lot of chemicals but also strips the water of all good nutrients, so basically you have dead water. They are usually only at the kitchen faucet, so you bathe in and brush your teeth in untreated water. If you do not maintain them, bacteria can grow in them creating another problem. ∑ Bottled water in more brands than not is tap water taken from a public system and is no cleaner or safer than your tap water.

The list goes on. None can do what Nature’s Miracle can and also be maintenance-free. Check it out at www.betterwaternow.com today.

Bartman Inc. 257 W. Main Street, Monongahela, PA 15063 724-258-2215 724-225-1644 bartmaninc@verizon.net

Barkley – Ruth Darlene, 80, of Monongahela died Monday, November 28.

Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

Parrish – Joseph P. “JoJo,” 5, of Finleyville died Saturday, December 17. Arrangements under direction of Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

Bartman – Stella Ann, 81, of Monongahela died Thursday, November 17. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

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

Bejger – Mary (Mrochek), 94, of West Elizabeth died Thursday, November 24.

Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Rach – Marlene Louise, 76, of Monongahela died Monday, November 14.

Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

Brown – Shirley Ann, 74, of Monongahela died Friday, November 25. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

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

Caprol – Irene H., 89, of Monongahela died Friday, November 4. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

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

Crompton – Katherine Meredith, 80, of Columbus, Ohio, formerly of New Eagle, died Tuesday, November 1. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

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

Dagger – Kim Alexander, 60, of Jefferson Hills, formerly of Elizabeth, died Tuesday, November 22. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

Davis – Richard, 67, of Jefferson Hills died Friday, December 9. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Dean – Raymond Martin, 82, of Monongahela died Tuesday, November 29.

Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

Hnatnik – Frank Jr., of Monongahela died Saturday, December 3. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Large – Thomas, 87, of Jefferson Hills died Tuesday, November 15. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Lascala – Isabelle R., 89, of Monongahela died Sunday, December 18. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

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

Roesch – George, 54, of South Park, formerly of Large in Jefferson Hills, died Sunday, November 27. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Rush – Thomas, 65, of Elizabeth died Monday, November 14. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Sedan – Yolanda B., 83, of Finleyville died Saturday, December 10. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

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

Signorini – Alexander M., 93, of Monongahela died Saturday, November 26.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

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

Trumpie – Henry “Albert,” 88, of Forward Township died Saturday, November 26.

Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

————————————————————————————————————————— 42 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

unionfinley.com 43 January 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

————————————————————————————————————————— 44 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Union Finley Midget Football Association Secures a Winning Season The "Bearable Towels” were once again in full force this season, as the 2011 Union Finley Midget Football Association continued its winning tradition, as all four teams once again were either crowned as division champion or conference runner up.

The Tiny Mite Bears Flag Team, (5 - 7 year olds), finished the season as their conference champions. The 2011 Tiny Mites had a very special season, finishing the regular season with a 7 - 1 record.

The Bears stingy defense was the league’s best surrendering only 2 points in the regular season, while the offense finished as the league’s 3rd best. The Bears continued their success through two rounds of playoffs, and squared up against the Rostraver Leopards for the championship game. The Bears fell 6 - 0 in a very defen-

sive battle against the league’s top-ranked offensive team.

The Termite Bears (8 - 9 year olds) competed in a very competitive conference this year and managed to complete the regular season as the conference runner up. Although they finished 2nd in their conference, the Termites were unable to secure a seed for the post-season rounds, based on the competiveness of the division this season. Based on returning players, as well as those moving up from the Tiny Mite team, next season looks to be very promising for the Termites.

The Mighty Mites (10 - 11 year olds) captured the conference runner up trophy, finishing the regular season with a record of 5 - 3. By doing so, they earned a 6th seed in the playoffs. The Bears

came up short in their quest to move on the 2nd round of the playoffs with a hard fought loss the #3 seeded Rostraver Leopards. The 2012 season looks to be another successful season for the Bears based on returning talent and those players moving up from the Termite squad.

The Midgets (12 - 13 year olds), completed the regular season by capturing the conference runner up spot as well, also securing a 6th seed in the playoffs.

Their season ended following a very competitively played game against the Brownsville Falcons. The outlook for 2012 is very bright for this team next year based on the returning players’ playoff experience they have gained throughout the years as Bears.

The success of the 2011 season is directly attributed to dedication and hard working players, as well as the outstanding support that each team received from their cheerleading squads, family members, coaching staffs, and the multitude of parent volunteers who worked diligently each week to aid in a successful and fun season. Union Finley would also like to thank all of the corporate sponsors for their generosity and support during this very exciting season.

Union Finley has been successfully competing in the Mon Valley Midget Football League for 38 years. This program has been and continues to be a successful feeder program for the sur-

rounding school districts that the players from Union Finley represent. Many graduates of this program have gone on to be members of WPIAL and state championship teams for their school districts.

Registration is open to all boys and girls in the Finleyville, South Park, Monongahela, Bethel Park, Peters Township and Nottingham Township communities for Tiny Mite (flag, 5 - 7 year olds), Termites, (8 - 9 year olds), Mighty Mites (10 - 11 year olds), and Midgets (12 - 13 year olds) for both football and cheerleading. The league provides all equipment and uniforms.

Keep an eye out for advertisements for the 2012 season registration dates in future editions of this publication.

Please feel free to contact League President and South Park Resident Jody Stewart at 724-348-4935 if you have any questions.

SHARP SHOOTER West Elizabeth Girl Bags First Buck

On the first day of hunting season, 14-year-old Amber Brownfield of Glassport and West Elizabeth shot her first buck — a six-point. She is a student in South Allegheny School District.

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

SPORTS

Union Finley Tiny Mite Bears Score Championship Season

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

Cheerleader Grace Mucci is missing from the photo.

The 2011 Union Finley Tiny Mite Bears capped off their amazing season by capturing the conference championship and representing the community in the Mon Valley Midget Football League Championship Game. The Bears completed the regular season with an amazing 7 - 1 record, with their only loss being in week 7 against the Rostraver Leopards (2 – 0). The Bears posted 7 shut outs through the regular season, earning the #1 defensive rank in the league. The Bears offensive fire power amassed 144 points on the scoreboard throughout the regular season, earning the 3rd overall offense in the league.

This amazing performance during the regular season earned the Bears the conference championship and the #2 overall seed in the playoffs. The Bears also earned home field advantage for the 1st round of the playoffs. The Bears didn’t disappoint the home crowd, as they defeated a very competitive Charleroi team, 14 - 0.

The Bears advanced to the second round of the playoffs to square off against the always-tough Yough Cougars. The Bears kept their fans on their feet as they cemented their path

to the championship game by winning 36 - 8.

The Bears faced the #1 Seeded Rostraver Leopards in the championship game. The game remained tied 0 - 0 nearly to the end and looked as if it may have gone into overtime. However, Rostraver was able to break the tie and go on to win 6 - 0. The Bears fought valiantly until the final whistle, and although they walked off the field with heavy hearts, they held their heads high and deservedly so.

The Tiny Mite Cheerleaders were wonderful all season and throughout the playoffs. Their dedication and hard work was equal to that of the players, and it showed in the electricity and excitement they brought to the field every week.

It was magical season for a very special group of players. The Bears showed heart throughout the season; they exemplified great sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork, all of which are far more important beyond the football field. Most importantly, they played for each other and the name on the front of their uniforms— “Bears”—and the communities they represent. Great job, Bears.

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

unionfinley.com 45 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Automotive

————————————————————————————————————————— 46 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

School News St. Joan of Arc

Angelina Battistone, Lauren Luppe, Isabella Klee, Hailey Knoll, Cole Brdar, and Jonathan Lesko all wore their jammies for Polar Express Day/PJ Day at St. Joan of Arc School.

There’s always something happening at St. Joan of Arc School.

Check us out at 412-833-2433 or at mysjaschool.org.

December was a busy month at St. Joan of Arc. Throughout Advent, additional prayer services, a mass, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation were all part of their religious preparation for the big day. Other festivities included Santa’s Brunch, where you could take a picture with Santa, read with Mrs. Claus or work on crafts.

At Santa’s workshop, the kids shopped until they dropped, showing that they know that the real spirit of Christmas is in the giving. Polar Express Day/PJ Day had the students dressing in their pajamas, drinking hot chocolate, and watching the Christmas classic Polar Express. The annual concert showed off SJA’s talent with singing and musical instruments. Afterwards, refreshments and Chinese auction tickets were sold to raise money for the school.

Our basketball season also started with the IB boys basketball team having its first home game at Nativity gym. Although no score is kept at this level, the team showed some amazing promise.

Email your School News to: news@unionfinley.com

Joshua Kosmach, Adam Vas, Regis Manion, and Laura Kutschke enjoy The Polar Express.

Tyler Lemansky, Tommy Quirin, and Zach Lemansky color pictures for Santa.

PETERS TOWNSHIP

SCHOOL NEWS PTHS Musicians Selected for County and PMEA Honors Eleven musicians from Peters Township High School have been selected to take part in the 2012 Washington County Band. The students listed below will collaborate with other students from area schools on February 4, with a concert to take place on February 17 at Trinity High School. The students earning this honor are: grade 10: Rebecca Brott, flute; Nathan Wolk, cornet; Julian Chalifour, oboe; grade 11: Maple Chen, horn; Adam Golding, tuba; Jeff Higgins, percussion; Carla Hoge, horn; Melanie Roberts, cornet; and grade 12: Jyssica Bachr, flute; Alex Clark, horn; and Dylan Devine, tuba.

Peters Township senior Michael Counihan and junior Richard MacKay have also been selected by audition to take part in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Honors Jazz Band West. Counihan plays trombone for the PTHS band, and MacKay plays vibraphone. The Honors Jazz Band concert will take place at Baldwin High School on January 7 at 7 p.m.

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

SCHOOL NEWS

Ringgold Students Hold Championship Debate

By Miranda Startare

Ringgold High School student recently participated in their biannual Championship Debate in front of an audience of teachers and students. This is the 13th year the school has held these debates. The two participating teams were the top-scoring teams from a preliminary round of debates held previously.

The resolution was “Student athletes should be tested for performance-enhancing drugs and controlled substances.”

The students on the teams were given debate lessons by their sponsor and

teacher, Linda Fetchen. The students work hard in preparing for these debates, and these same students often join the Youth and Government group at the YMCA or join the school’s mock trial team, according to Mrs. Fetchen.

The winning debate team was determined to be the “Negative” team, who argued against drug-testing of student athletes. The debate was moderated by the debate student coordinator, junior Mitchell Kohlburn. A panel of judges included Laura Piecknick (Charleroi High School teacher), Angela Gorman, and Sandra Bordini (retired teacher and debate team sponsor from South Park

unionfinley.com 47 ——————————————————————————————————————————

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

High School). Audience votes also helped determine the winning team.

Additionally, each team chose their “most worthy adversary.”

Harley Bobnar (Negative Team) and Cassie Lignelli (Affirmative Team) each received this distinction from their opposing teams along with a certificate of achievement.

Members of the Negative Team were: Harley Bobnar, Kelley Donovan, and Jamie Klebanski. Members of the Affirmative Team were: Lacey Gavalla, Cassie Lignelli, Adam Martin, and Matt Petras.

The students all gave a great debate performance and displayed preparedness while discussing the various sides of a thought-provoking current topic.

Previous topics of the school’s debate team have been: locker searches, smoking in public places, bringing troops home, Presidential Elections, capital punishment, space program, casino gambling, fetal stem cell research, etc.

The Ringgold High School Debate Team will hold its next debate in the spring and hopes to join Charleroi High School students to hold debates at both schools.

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

By Paul Chasko

The newly elected members of the Ringgold School Board on December 21 voted in a nearly solid block along with Board President Chuck Smith to employ architects HHSDR to perform yet another costly study - this one to investigate the possibility of new usage for existing school buildings. Near the end of the meeting, board member Bill Ellis placed a motion on the floor that proposed engaging HHSDR to explore the feasibility of: • Reopening the Donora and Monongahela school buildings (DEC and MEC) to once again house Ringgold Elementary students.

• Converting the Ringgold Elementary School South (RESS) to a middle school • Closing the Finley Middle School Building.

The motion passed 6-3 with the following votes: Yes: Charles Smith, Mariann Bulko, Bill Ellis, Carol Flament, Gene Kennedy, Robert Smith No: Chris Carroll, Larry Mauro, William Stein

The vote was preceded by lengthy comments from a number of parents each speaking against the conversion of the RESS to a middle school and returning the elementary students to the old buildings in Monongahela and Donora.

Their comments piled on one another along the same main points.

• There has been a very positive bonding between the children from Donora and Monongahela at the RESS. They are working well together, are happy in their new school building and do not want to be returned to the old buildings. The majority of parents do not want this, either.

• The taxpayers have spent a fortune renovating the RESS to a new modern elementary center – why now (four months after its opening) go to another costly renovation to convert it to a middle school?

• Some parents speaking at the meeting believe there are health issues in the old buildings – particularly with air quality. Specific instances were cited where breathing problems in children experienced in the older buildings lessened noticeably when the children moved into the RESS. These same par-

ents cited their concerns about mold and asbestos in the old buildings.

The thorny issue The Ringgold High School vocal group Razmataz performs unsettling the staat the Ringgold School Board meeting. tus quo continues higher than what may be estimated. A to be the condition of the foundation in long list of deficiencies in the DEC and some parts of the existing Middle MEC buildings was generated at a School building. Sensors are monitoring recent board workshop. the miniscule movements in the founA special board meeting will be held dation in various parts of the building. on January 11 to begin examining the Data is gathered (now at two-month cost estimates for the proposed changes. intervals) and reports are issued.

Residents/taxpayers are urged to attend Experts’ comments on the building conto voice their concerns. dition are interpreted differently; the The board has not acted to approve only certainty is that there have been the expansion and renovation of the minor movements in some parts of the Ringgold Elementary School North in foundations and walls for the past 10 or Gastonville, which would have added so years, and the building is still safe for six additional permanent classrooms. use according to the architect/engineers.

A positive reprieve at the meeting was Board members William Stein and the annual Christmas performance of Chris Carroll are concerned that the the Ringgold High School vocal group – costs for bringing the MEC and DEC Razmataz. See the photo. buildings “up to code” will be much Go to our website at www.unionfinley.com for more details on this meeting.

January 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— 48 unionfinley.com UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

Seniors

••• • • • •••••••

Forever Young Welcomes 2012 Here we are starting 2012 with our “still great” Forever Young Group. We’re looking forward to the New Year and hoping for a good one.

Our regular meetings during January will be on Tuesdays, January 3, 10, and 17 with catered lunches served. We’ll be getting together as usual at 10 am at the Finleyville Community Center, and January 10 will be our Supermarket/Grocery Bingo.

Tuesday, January 24 will be our covered-dish dinner with Rosemary Zrimsek acting as chairperson. Leslie Wright (Prime Time Health) will be visiting with us this month.

Happy January birthdays to Shirley Polacek, Mary Lou Reinheimer, and Vi Brinska.

Mary Kotula’s thought for the day: Do you realize that in about 40 years, we’ll have thousands of old ladies running around with tattoos, and rap music will be “The Golden Oldies” - OMG.

••••••••

Senior News from the Venetia Community Center The following information is for the Venetia Community Center located at 800 Venetia Road., Venetia. We are sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging.

We will be back to two meetings this month, one on January 12 and one on January 26. On January 12, our entertainment will be by Cyl Tenner. We will have our regular blood pressure screening by Sharon Hixenbaugh, a registered nurse from Caring Mission Home Care, followed by a delicious lunch being prepared at the Canonsburg Senior Center.

Our second luncheon on January 26 will feature guest speaker Harry Funk, a reporter from the Washington Observer. He will have us remembering some older sites in our community. It is a great feeling to look around and see something that has stood time with you. We will also have our regular blood pressure screening

by Lucy Corson from Family Home Health Service.

Anyone who has not been to our luncheons is more than welcome to come. The only requirement is to make a reservation by calling Erma Grego at 724-941-6956.

All seniors are welcomed.

Our thanks again go out to Susan Early’s Girl Scout Troop for such a wonderful job of decorating our center again for Christmas.

Birthdays for January are Betty Chong, Phyliss Fagin, Jim Leslie, Shirley Polacek, and Don Roach. A very Happy Birthday to you all.

SilverSneakers® Open House Slated at Mon Valley YMCA The Mon Valley YMCA will be hosting an Open House on Tuesday, January 31 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for all SilverSneakers® eligible members. The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is the nation’s leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. The program offers physical activity, health education, and social events for Medicare-eligible and group retiree members, usually those age 65 or older, but, in some cases, those of any age deemed disabled and receiving Medicare. Members receive a fitness center membership at no cost and access to our signature SilverSneakers® and Mon Valley YMCA balanced body exercise classes. Tours and raffles will be available. For more information, please call 724483-8077 or stop in to see if you qualify today!

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

unionfinley.com 49 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Kids & Family Registration Opens for Mon Valley YMCA Child Learning Center Preschool The Mon Valley YMCA is accepting applications for the 2012-2013 school year for preschool classes in its Child Learning Center. Registration for members and students currently enrolled in the Y preschool begins Tuesday, January 3, 2012.

Open registration begins Wednesday, February 1, 2012. Registration is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

Applications may be picked up in advance in the Y Business Office, but no applications will be accepted until the dates mentioned.

Three-day pre-K classes meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with a morning session from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and an afternoon session from 12:30 to 3 p.m. This program prepares students for their kindergarten experience by introducing the Zoo-Phonics curriculum. The program fully involves the student with phonemic awareness skills, the alphabet, and how to read, spell, and write in learning centers and group activities. Field trips, holiday programs, and guest speakers stimulate all levels of learning.

Two-day classes meet on Tuesday and Thursday with a morning session from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and afternoon session from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. There is also one afternoon class on Monday and Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30

p.m. This program introduces letters and numbers through puppets in the Letter People curriculum.

Teddy, Me & You is a very special program that introduces 2 1/2 year olds to the classroom with new friends and new experiences as Mrs. Joanna Stroh welcomes and nurtures the children as they learn to follow directions, listen and communicate during circle time and interacting with other students during playtime. Classes are for one hour one day a week either on Tuesdays or Thursdays.

The Mon Valley YMCA Child Learning Center Early Childhood Education Program is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and is a Keystone Stars facility. Teachers are certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The center meets Pennsylvania’s Early Learning Standards for academic, social. and physical skills that a child should develop throughout the course of the year and provides guidance for activities to support this development in the classroom and at home.

Learning centers in preschool classrooms are very special places that provide the perfect setting for children to learn, to grow, and to develop at their own pace. For additional information, contact the Y at 724-483-8077.

Su nshine Kids

Don’t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Kids & Family Section. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177

————————————————————————————————————————— 50 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Entertainment PUMP P U VOLU

by Mandy Withers-Kozlowski

JANUARY BALTIMORE HOUSE 412-653-9332 176 Curry Hollow Road, Pleasant Hills Tuesdays - Karaoke 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Thursdays - DJ Ed Lover/Karaoke 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

Fridays - DJ Ed Lover 10 -2 a.m.

Saturdays - Live bands

BOOTSIE’S BAR 412-672-1120 699 O’Neil Blvd., McKeesport Fridays - Ladies Night w/ DJ Chris DENNY’S ROADHOUSE 724-258-6232 3431 Rt. 136, Finleyville Mondays - Saturdays Exotic/Lingerie Barmaids 6 -2 a.m.

ELRAMA TAVERN 412-384-3630 1520 Rt. 837, Elrama 7 - Mark Cyler & The Lost Coins 9 - Full Moon Party w/ Karaoke

Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot! the

ME!

14 - Gil Snyder Combo 21 - Scott Spahr 27 - Todd Jones 31 - Bingo for Pens tickets Tuesdays – Bingo, 7:30 p.m.

20 - Whiskey Outlaws 21 - Gil Snyder Combo 27 - TBA 28 - A-Z Karaoke Thursdays - DJ Barto

FREDDIE’S II 412-833-1830 2789 South Park Road, Bethel Park 7 - Ali Barranti Duo 14 - Rusty Biker 21 - The Henhouse Roosters 28 - The Desperados Wednesdays - Texas Hold ‘em Tournament 7:30 p.m.

Thursdays - Tableside magician 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Saturdays - Live entertainment 9 p.m. - midnight

HOT HOUSE TAP AND GRILLE 724-258-4212 807 Dry Run Road, Monongahela Entertainment 9 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.

Wednesdays - Open stage Thursdays - Karaoke/DJ Fridays - Karaoke/DJ Saturdays - Karaoke/DJ

HEY ANDY SPORTSBAR AND LOUNGE 724-258-4755 1221 W. Main St., Monongahela 6 - Stone Horse 7 - The WeedRags 13 - Black Dog Hollow 14 - Black Magic

THE HUNTING LODGE 724-348-7984 3529 Washington Ave., Finleyville Fridays - Free juke box 8 -close Saturdays - Free juke box 8 -close THE KICKSTAND BAR & RESTAURANT 412-384-3080 1100 Hayden Blvd.

7 - Gil Snyder Combo 14 - Karaoke w/ Marty 21 - The Jades 28 - Karaoke w/ Marty

PIT STOP BAR AND GRILLE 412 -384 -7487 1473 Rt. 837, Elrama Saturdays - Free juke box, 9pm-1am RINKY DINKS ROADHOUSE 724-228-1059 339 Amity Ridge Road, Amity Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ The WeedRags, 8 p.m.-midnight RIVER HOUSE CAFÉ 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi 19 - Mystery Dinner ROCKIN’ WILLIES ROADHOUSE 724-745-8844 Rt. 19 South, Canonsburg Tuesdays - Jam Night with the Jam Band, all singers and musicians welcome.

TERRACE GARDENS 412-233-2626 1180 Woodland Ave., Clairton 6 - Paul & Ray 13 - Daniels & McLain 20 - Todd Jones 28 - Regular Joes Wednesdays - Karaoke with Eddie VALLEY HOTEL 412-233-9800 1004 New England Hollow Rd. (intersection of 837/Coal Valley Rd.), Jefferson Hills Fridays - Open Stage Night all musicians welcome.

ROY’S BY THE TRACKS 724-348-7118 3710 Rt. 88, Finleyville Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ Bill Couch Wednesdays - Karaoke w/ Brett Saturdays - Karaoke w/ Rickieoke or Matt Sundays - Karaoke w/ Rickieoke or Matt

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@unionfinley.com or visit www.myspace.com/ufmpuv

COMING IN FEBRUARY

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Children & Family

CALL TODAY FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: 412-249-8177

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

unionfinley.com 51 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Classifieds

arty P e at Priv Ads

E FRE

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

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

CALL THE UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER TODAY AT (412) 249-8177.

OR E-MAIL YOUR CLASSIFIED AD TO CLASSIFIEDS@UNIONFINLEY.COM REAL ESTATE, RENTALS, HELP WANTED, AND A L L OTHER BUSINESS AD RATES – $8.00 (minimum) for up to 15 words, plus .35 cents for each additional word. Bold Type - .25 cents per word. Box - $1.50

-------- ADOPTION --------ADOPTION: Patty & Steve, Active, Creative Catholic Couple Hope to Connect with You, Birthmother, For Adoption Plan. Legal Expenses Paid. Let’s Text/Talk 973-477-9886 _______________________________________________________ PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert.

You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6296 _______________________________________________________ PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID.Abby's One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6292, 24/7 Void/Illinois _______________________________________________________

--------- AUTOMOTIVE ---------Buy Here! Pay Here! QUALITY USED CARS LOW Down Payments • NO Credit Check. • 724-379-5055 Mazda 6 Bumper - 2003-08 custom after market with metal grill $75. Phone 724-268-0315 . _______________________________________________________ Hyundai Accent - $4500.00. For more information, call 412-512-8437 or 412-417-5948 and ask for Charlotte. _______________________________________________________ 2004 Jeep Liberty - Sport 4x4 drive, new tires, new inspection, and garage kept. 85,500 miles, asking for $7500 OBO. For more information, call 724344-7238. _______________________________________________________ 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Minivan - 64,000 miles. A scooter lift is attached to the rear hatch and can be used to lift a wheelchair or scooter into van. Not used to transport people in and out of vehicle. Garage kept, lift only 2 years old.Asking for $8,000 but will negotiate. For more information, call 412854-5844. _______________________________________________________ 1999 Commodore mobile home. Exc. condition. Only 1 owner - bought brand new in 2001. Call 412-600-9061 _______________________________________________________ 2008 Jeep Liberty 4x4 - 30K miles, flat tow ready, modern blue pearlcoat exterior,3.6L V6 engine w/6 speed manual transmission,lots of extras,includes tow bar & auxiliary brake system. $20,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667. _______________________________________________________ 2003 Hyundai Accent - lt blue/station wagon, slim type, little over 15,000 miles, new brakes and rack. Car runs excellent. $8,500 final price. Call Charlotte at 412-417-5948. _______________________________________________________ Ford Farm Tractor - 1952, 8N, 12 volts, with brush hog. $2,500. 724-3485992. _______________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money.Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622. _______________________________________________________ 1999 Nissan truck-Frontier. 163,000 miles, Good condition. $5000 or B/O. 724-348-7637. _______________________________________________________ JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. _______________________________________________________

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! PayMAX pays the MAX! One call gets you a TOP DOLLAR offer! Any year/make/model. 1-888-PAYMAX-5 (1-888-729-6295) _______________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS: Cars/Trucks Wanted! Running or Not! We Come To You! Any Make/Model.

Instant Offer - Call: 1-800-569-0003 _______________________________________________________ WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI 1970-1980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ 1000, H2-750, H1-500, S1-250, S2-250, S2-350, S3-400 CASH. 1-800-772-1142, 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners. com _______________________________________________________ TOP CASH FOR CARS, Any Car/Truck, Running or Not. Call for INSTANT offer: 1-800-454-6951 _______________________________________________________

A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation! Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up. 800771-9551 www.cardonationsforbreastcancer.org _______________________________________________________ CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not,All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-4162330 _______________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK or SUV to Childhood Leukemia Foundation today. Tax Deductible, FREE towing, fast, easy Process. 877-754-3227 www.mycarfordonation.org _______________________________________________________

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

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

DONATE YOUR CAR to USO and HELP SUPPORT AMERICA’S TROOPS. Tax Deductible.

Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 1-888-444-8308. _______________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation,Tax Deductible, Free Towing,All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 888475-1825 _______________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND of AMERICA and help end CHILDHOOD CANCER. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher.

7 Days 1-800-469-8593 _______________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CANCER FUND of AMERICA to help SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher.

Call 7 Days 1-800-835-9372 _______________________________________________________ Donate Your Car! Civilian Veterans & Soldiers Help Support Our U.S. Military Troops 100% Volunteer Free same Day Towing.Tax Deductible. Call and Donate Today!

1-800-471-0538 _______________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR - HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing.

Call 7 days/week. Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408 _______________________________________________________

Reach 30,000 potential customers in the South Hills and Mon Valley communities! Advertise your business in the Union-Finley Messenger. Call for more information at 412-249-8177. Or e-mail to news@unionfinley.com. _______________________________________________________ FREE WEEK OF ADVERTISING... place your ad in over 1 Million households in free community papers in the Western Counties of Pennsylvania for 5 Weeks and get the 6th Week FREE! Visit www.macnetonline.com/ MICRONETS for more details or call 800-450-7227. _______________________________________________________ REACH CUSTOMERS IN THE MID-ATLANTIC STATES. Place your ad in over 5.2 million households in free community papers for 5 weeks and get the 6th Week FREE. Visit www.macnetonline.com for more details or call 800-4507227. _______________________________________________________

-------------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES -----------Home Business Opportunity - Seeking Brand Partners to distribute and promote Vemma, the most complete liquid nutrition program found anywhere. Earn income while promoting a healthy lifestyle! Set your own hours and work from home. Free marketing website. Learn more by visiting our website www.BodyFuel.Vemma.com _______________________________________________________ SEEKING PROFESSIONALS (FDIC Insured) Home Business Mobile Banking Platiform. Paid Daily. Will train, a must see. Take 15 min to hear about it 216649-1011 _______________________________________________________ Start Earning Right Now! $1000’s Weekly For Placing Ads Just Like This One. Get PAID DAILY! Call 1-800-818-4395 www.wow20000.com _______________________________________________________

-------------- COMPUTERS -----------COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724348-6837. _______________________________________________________ DELL LAPTOP computer, super fast, excellent condition. Internal wireless card, DVD/CD+RW. Premium software bundle. Six month warranty. Original cost: $2175. Must sell: $399. 717 653-6314 _______________________________________________________

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

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

We Will Train You! First Transit has positions available for CDL and Non-CDL Drivers. CDL DRIVERS should have Class B, Passenger and Air Brake endorsements; starting wages at $12.00 per hour. NONCDL DRIVER full time positions also available. Competitive wages starting at $8.50 to $10.00 per hour.

• FT Benefits - health insurance w/vision, paid holidays, paid vacations, etc.

• Paid Training • Must have valid PA Driver's License • Pre-employment physical & drug screen required • Must have a good 5 year driving history Please call Roy or Gary at 724-746-4342 or apply at:

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

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

Fleet Mechanic

National Company We are now accepting applications for a full time Mechanic with basic tools, Inspection license, and a good driving record (CDL preferred). Excellent benefits including health insurance, holidays, vacations. Paid Training. Experience with Fords and/or fleet vehicles a plus. Pre-employment physical and drug screening required. ASE bonus program.

Please apply in person, Mon- Fri, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or call and ask for the Maintenance Manager at:

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

————————————————————————————————————————— 52 unionfinley.com If you have a passion for cooking, we are looking for experienced line prep cook. Available day or evening, PT/FT. Email resume to: riverhousecafe@yahoo.com or call 724-565-5700 and ask for Trey. _______________________________________________________ Experienced/Accurate Car Representative Needed - he/she must be above 18 years old and must have good qualities to work. Interested applicant should please contact me at dg66008@gmail.com.

Experienced Hair Dresser Needed FULL or PART Time • 724-344-4656 Home Business Opportunity - Seeking Brand Partners to distribute and promote Vemma, the most complete liquid nutrition program found anywhere. Earn income while promoting a healthy lifestyle! Set your own hours and work from home. Free marketing website. Learn more by visiting our website www.BodyFuel.Vemma.com. or call 412-760-2291. _______________________________________________________ Belle Vernon - Salesperson - 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a highly motivated sales consultant who wants a career and not a job. The position is full time and no traveling required. Income is based on sales consultant abilities. If interested please call 724-929-5040 and fax resumes to 724-9296855. _______________________________________________________ Full-time position as a relationship developer, telesales professional.

Responsible for calling prospects on a regular basis to gain appointments with prospects and follow-up on needs and expectations. Strong clerical skills utilizing MS Office. Canonsburg location. Send resume to 724-916-4777 or jobs@staffmastersinc.com. _______________________________________________________ Babysitter/Nanny for Summer – let your kids sleep and play in the neighborhood. American Red Cross certified experienced, reasonable, references.

Call Kelsey at 724-348-6528.

SLAGLE ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION, INC. NEEDS... Experienced Roofers to join our team.FULL-TIME.Must have valid driver's license.STOP IN or CALL 724-258-6901. 208 W. Main Street, Monongahela.

Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency seeks an experienced Tourism Sales & Marketing Manager. Successful candidate will lead all outside sales and marketing efforts of the Agency to consumer, travel trade, sports, small meeting and corporate markets, as well as assisting in daily destination marketing functions performed by Agency staff. Extensive overnight travel is required, some weekend work also necessary. Degree and hospitality sales experience required, enthusiasm for tourism in Washington County essential.

Salary, incentive bonus and benefits package offered. Interested candidates respond immediately to info@visitwashington countypa.com or by fax at 724228-5514.

HELP WANTED! Experienced P/T Cook AND P/T Waitress The Hunting Lodge • 724-348-7984 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a Salesperson. They must have experience in the sales field and is willing to work 10 hour days. If you are interested please send resume to pauljunior@422 homes.com. If you have any questions please call 724-929-5040. _______________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

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

-------------- FINANCIAL / INSURANCE ------------South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842.

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.

Cooks and drivers wanted! Pitstop Bar and Pizza Shop. 412-384-7487. _______________________________________________________ LIFE & HEALTH AGENTS TO SELL COMPREHENSIVE SENIOR PORTFOLIO. Outstanding Commission Schedule, Ongoing Lead Program. Commission Advances. Immediate Vesting. CONTACT Chris@ManorWest Marketing. com.

717-392-6888 _______________________________________________________ Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with children. Part time or full time positions available. Please call Tammy at 724-348-6565 _______________________________________________________ Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts. Ability to multi-task. Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred.

Will train. Call 724-348-8844. _______________________________________________________ EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS WANTED FOR OUR VAN DIVISION: Heavy Run Between Wisconsin to McConnellsburg, PA, Flex home time. 99% NoTouch Freight.Paid Vacation,401K Savings Plan/Vision/Dental/ Disability/Health Ins. Offered. Class A CDL, 2 yrs OTR exp. good MVR/References recq. Call Ruth/Mike TTI, Inc. 1-800-558-2664 www.TTItrucking.com _______________________________________________________ EARN EXTRA CASH WEEKLY!! Work from home as an envelope stuffer. No experience required. Call 1-855-220-1722 or go to www.earncashweeklynow.com (void in SD) _______________________________________________________ Mystery Shoppers Needed Earn up to $150 per day Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 888-912-6028 _______________________________________________________ PROCESS Mail! Pay Weekly! FREE Supplies! Bonuses! Genuine! Helping Homeworkers since 1992! Call 1-888-302-1522 www.howtoworkfromhome.com _______________________________________________________ PHONE ACTRESSES FROM HOME Best Pay-Outs, Busy System Weekends a Must! Land Line/Good Voice 1-800-403-7772 lipservice.net Seeking career-oriented professional with current PA insurance licenses for full time position. Property & Casualty license a must; willing to train for Life/Health license. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume’ to 724-258-5880.

HELP WANTED!

Industrial service company in South Park looking for qualified mechanics and customer service representatives!

Service Technician

Customer Service Rep

• • • • •

• • • • • •

3-5 years experience PA inspection license Safe and professional Ability to troubleshoot Knowledge about trucks, snowplows, salt spreaders, and trailers

1-2 years experience as a CSR Ability to multi task Organized and thorough Receiving and stocking product Computer knowledge Light housekeeping

Full and Part time open now!

Full Health Care, Vacation, and Paid Holidays!

Email resume to: trailertechnicican@comcast.net

CD ALTERNATIVE - Current Annuity rates from 3%- 5.05% first year guaranteed depending on the amount of deposit and length of contract. Call 724-731-0071.

Buried in Credit Card Debt? Over $10,000? We can get you out of debt quickly and save you thousands of dollars! Call CREDIT CARD RELIEF for your free consultation 1-866-767-5932 _______________________________________________________ Need Fast CASH? Short term loans up to $1500 deposited into your bank account OVERNIGHT! Call for quick approval. 877-290-0052 _______________________________________________________ CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY REMOVE IT! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys. Minimum $5000 in debt to qualify. Call 1-866-652-7630 _______________________________________________________ AVOID BANKRUPTCY! Settle debts for less.Call if more than $15,000 of credit_______________________________________________________ card debt. (800) 699-9740

--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS ----------Feel the difference with Nature’s Sunshine Products. Healthy Opportunities! www.mynsp.com/jrobbins or call: 412-708-7329 _______________________________________________________ ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-440-8352 _______________________________________________________ ****TAKE VIAGRA/CIALIS? SAVE $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only $99! Call now, Get 4/BONUS Pills FREE! Your Satisfaction or Money Refunded!

1-888-796-8870 _______________________________________________________ TAKE VIAGRA? SAVE $500! 100mg,/Cialis 20mg. 40+4 FREE, PILLS. Only $99.00 Discreet. 1-888-797-9024 _______________________________________________________ TAKE VIAGRA/CIALIS? SAVE $500! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only $99!

Call now & Get 4 BONUS Pills FREE! Your Satisfaction Guaranteed! 1-888-7779242 _______________________________________________________

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

Call 724-929-3891. _______________________________________________________ Fine China by Treasure House, Fleetwood 43 pieces, service for 8, plus extras, dishes are off white, edged with silver band, small pink roses and green leaves in center. Must see to appreciate quality and condition. $150.00 Call 724-929-3891. _______________________________________________________ Penguin vs.Flyers tickets! (2) last game of year! Best offer! Text to 412-7805998. _______________________________________________________ Wurlitzer Church Organ - free! 2 level keyboard, floor petals, great condition, you haul. Call 724-258-9115, ask for Karen. _______________________________________________________ Stag Rotary Treadle Sewing Machine - overhauled, excellent condition. $35.

Call 412-233-3152. _______________________________________________________ Bed Frame - Full size with (4) Legs and Rug Rollers. New in box. $40.00. For more information, call 724-684-5531. _______________________________________________________ Cub Cadet – 12–14 HP - 40 Inch Cut comes with snow blower attachment and garden discs. $800 or BO. Call 724-322-2458 for more information. _______________________________________________________ CB Ham Radio – realistic, with all cords and mic. $25 Pro 20120 programmable 40 channels. Call 724-322-2458 for more information. _______________________________________________________ 1989 Classic Cadillac – Fleetwood, 19k miles. Garage kept. Never used in winter-mint condition. Silver. Asking for $9000. Taking offers. For more information, call 724-322-2458. _______________________________________________________ Oak Country Furniture - Oak Country Dresser (6 drawers), $160.00. Oak Country Chest Drawers (6 drawers),$100.00.Like new.Buy separate or together.

For more information, call 724-322-2458. _______________________________________________________ Cemetery lots. Lafayette Memorial Park. Garden of Serenity. 4 lots at $5,400.

Selling for $2,400. 724-938-7307. _______________________________________________________ BEDS!!! Pillow Tops, Plush, Memory Foam. 10 YEAR WARRANTIES!!! New, still in factory plastic. FULL $179. QUEEN $199; KING $245 (Twins Available) IMMEDIATE DELIVERY!!! CALL (412) 494-7351 _______________________________________________________

SURREY FOR SALE! 3-Seated, Horse Drawn: $1,500. • Horse Back Riding Lessons. • Riding Horses for Sale! www.logcabinstables.com. 724787-4817.

FREE! – Upright Piano. Union Township. You haul. For details, call 724-3487557. _______________________________________________________ CLARINET, FLUTE, VIOLIN, Trumpet, Trombone, Amplifier, Fender Guitar $70. ea. Cello, Upright Bass, Saxophone, French Horn, Drums $190. ea. Tuba, Baritone, Others. 1-516-377-7907. _______________________________________________________ MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA MATTRESSES T-$299 F-$349 Q$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY LIFETIME WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP 1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM _______________________________________________________

----------- ITEMS WANTED -------Wanted to buy - large roll top desk. Call 724-348-0506. _______________________________________________________ Canning Jars Wanted. Reasonable. 412-403-2753. _______________________________________________________ Wanted to Buy. Silver Coins. 1964 or older. Will pay 20-times face value! Call Dave at 724-941-5420. _______________________________________________________ Misc. Items Wanted - 30x30x15 Greenhouse kit and supplies to build greenhouse; Small camping trailer - reasonable; Water storage tank (5,000 or 3,000 Gal tank); Used water storage tank; Old farm fencing. 724-344-8784. _______________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622.

WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me. Jim Gillespie at 412979-7050 or home 724-348-6203.

JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. _______________________________________________________ WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me. Jim Gillespie at 412-9797050 or home 724-348-6203. _______________________________________________________ WANTED YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS Unexpired Any Kind/Brand. Up to $22.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Hablamos espanol. 1-800-267-9895 / www.SellDiabeticstrips.com _______________________________________________________ Motorcycles Wanted – CASH PAID! Select watercraft, ATV, snowmobiles.

FREE National Pickup – NO HASSLE! 1-800-963-9216 www.SellUs YourBike.com. www.USAPowerSportsMI.com Mon-Fri 9am-7pm CST. _______________________________________________________ FAST PAYMENT for sealed, unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS-up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. Call today & ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com _______________________________________________________ WANTED DIABETES TEST STRIPS Any kind/brand. Unexpired up to $22.00.

Shipping Paid Hablamos espanol 1-800-266-0702 www.selldiabeticstrips.com _______________________________________________________ YEARBOOKS "Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks1900-1988. yearbookusa@yahoo.com or 972-768-1338." _______________________________________________________

----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-825-7233. _______________________________________________________ MEDIATION - Are you involved in a dispute and do not know the next step to take to get it resolved? Mediation is an option. Has your spouse filed for divorce and you need help in managing the decisions that need to be made? Do you have a consumer dispute? Do you have a conflict in your neighborhood? Do you have a conflict within your family and you need an impartial third party to help the family solve the problem? Then it is Time 2 Talk. As a mediator with 30 years experience, I can help you to talk it out, and negotiate decisions that get the problem resolved. My name is Deidre Kuban and it is Time 2 Talk.The initial 30 minute consultation with me is at no cost to you. Resume and references available on request. Call me at 412-726-1514 or email kuban231@comcast.net.

January 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— ACR METAL ROOFING - GO GREEN - tax credits agricultural,commercial,residential. Building packages, top quality, low cost, FREE literature. acrmetal.com, 800-325-1247 _______________________________________________________ Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $49 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 866-752-5908 _______________________________________________________ DISH Network delivers more for less! Packages starting at $24.99/mo, Local channels included! FREE HD for life! Free BLOCKBUSTER® movies for 3 months.

1-888-691-3801 _______________________________________________________ HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED? Contact Woodford Bros., Inc. for straightening, leveling, foundation, and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN / www.woodfordbros.com MDHIC #05-121-861 _______________________________________________________ HEATING BILLS! Save up to 50 percent off your next heating bill. Advanced Portable Infrared iHeater® Heat 1000 sq. ft. for about 5 cents an hour! Free Shipping!

Call 1-888-435-0688 _______________________________________________________ Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 Percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www.PersonalCreations.com/Bliss or Call 1-888-867-5127 _______________________________________________________ PROFLOWERS- Looking for a Holiday Gift that will really impress? SPECIAL OFFER 20 percent off qualifying gifts over $29 from ProFlowers! Offer ONLY available at www.proflowers.com/Vase or call 1-888-380-2449 _______________________________________________________ RED ENVELOPE - Give great. Find the perfect holiday gift that tells a story.

Shop early and save an additional 20 percent. Visit www.redenvelope. com/Spirit or Call 866-690-0745 _______________________________________________________ SHARI`S BERRIES - Order Mouthwatering Gifts! 100 Percent satisfaction guaranteed. Hand-dipped berries from $19.99 s/h. SAVE 20 percent on qualifying gifts over $29! Visit www.berries.com/berry or Call 1-888-770-1867 _______________________________________________________ VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg!! 40 Pills 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement,Discreet Shipping.Only $2.70/pill.Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-888418-6450 _______________________________________________________ Wrap up your Holiday Shopping with 100 Percent Guaranteed, delivered-to-the-door Omaha Steaks - SAVE 67 percent PLUS 2 FREE GIFTS! 26 gourmet favorites ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 888-904-8728 or www.OmahaSteaks.com/gift65, use code 45102EMS _______________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 4 only 25x36, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Must Move Now! Selling for Balance Owed! Free Delivery! 1-800-411-5869 x 42 _______________________________________________________ IMMEDIATE OPENINGS. Private Security agents needed for escorting clients to special events, providing in-home security services. Specialized Training provided.

Call Now! 1-615-228-1701 www.psubodyguards.com _______________________________________________________ GET TOP DOLLAR FOR YOUR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES on a NEW television show from the producers of AMERICAN IDOL. Contact us at FinalOfferCasting@gmail.com or 818-480-7178 _______________________________________________________ DIRECTV $29.99/mo $0 Start Costs! Free HBO CINEMAX SHOWTIME STARZ! FREE HD/DVR! Free Installation! We’re “Local” Installers! 800-3554203. _______________________________________________________ DIRECTV $0 Start Costs! 285+ Channels! Starts $29.99/mo FREE HBO/Showtime/Starz/Cinemax 3 Months + FREE HD Channels + FREE HD/DVR Upgrade!

FREE Installation! $0 Start! (800) 329-6061 _______________________________________________________ FREE GAS! Receive $300 Gasoline Savings! Gasoline Stimulus program Provides $300 gas savings to participants of driving survey. Local Stations–Major Brands! Call Now 877-898-9029 _______________________________________________________ Get TV & Internet for UNDER $50/mo. For 6 mos. PLUS Get $300 Back!select plans. Limited Time ONLY Call NOW! 866-944-0906 _______________________________________________________ CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS- up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. FAST payment. Ask for Emma 1-888-7767771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com _______________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid.We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960 _______________________________________________________ **OLD GUITARS WANTED!** Fender, Gibson, Martin, Gretsch, Prairie State, Euphonon, Larson, D’Angelico, Stromberg, Rickenbacker, and Mosrite. Gibson Mandolins/Banjos.

1930’s thru 1970’s TOP CASH PAID! 1-800-401-0440 _______________________________________________________ DIRECTV – up to $31 off/mo.! 150+ Channels & FREE SHOWTIME for 3 mos -_______________________________________________________ ONLY $29.99/mo for one year. New customers Call NOW! 866-397-2788

CLASSIFIEDS

Get trained to fix jets at campuses coast to coast for jobs nationwide.

Financial aid if you qualify. Call AIM (888) 686-1704 or visit www.fixjets.com _______________________________________________________ GET YOUR DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com _______________________________________________________ WORK ON JET ENGINES – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career.

FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance.

Call AIM (866) 854-6156. _______________________________________________________ EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance.Computer available.Financial Aid if qualified.SCHEV certified.

Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com _______________________________________________________ HANDS ON Aviation Career – Become an Aviation Maintenance Technician.FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified -Job placement assistance.

Call AIM (877) 206-1503 _______________________________________________________ Reach over 20 million homes nationwide with one easy buy! Only $2,395 per week for a 25 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com _______________________________________________________ EnjoyBetterTV DISH Network Authorized Retailer Offers, FREE HD for Life, Packages from $19.99/mo. Includes locals, 3 HD receivers free. Restrictions Apply.

Call NOW!! (877) 594-2251 _______________________________________________________ AT&T U-Verse for just $29.99/mo! SAVE when you bundle Internet+Phone+TV and get up to $300 BACK! (Select plans). Limited Time Call NOW! 1-866-944-0906 _______________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY. Instant offer: 1-800-864-5784 _______________________________________________________ ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified.

Call 800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com _______________________________________________________ WORK ON JET ENGINES - Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866)453-6204 or visit www.fixjets.com _______________________________________________________

------------- NOTICES ---------Compulsive Eaters Anonymous - H.O.W.is a free,12 Step program for people who have a problem controlling their eating. We have meetings every day throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. For more information, call 412-2251664, e-mail info@ceahowpa.org or visit www.ceahowpa.org. It's simple, free and it works. Please keep coming back no matter what! _______________________________________________________ Monongahela Class of 1967 - planning 45 year class reunion in September 2012.We are inviting anyone who would like to help in the planning of this event to please contact Kathy at 724-258-7399 or Patti at 724-782-0141.Next meeting_______________________________________________________ is Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m. at Paul Lacko's home on Route 136.

LOST – Wedding Ring. Men’s.White Gold. Lost while driving along Rt. 88 near Mingo Church Road, Finleyville.Very sentimental and important. Reward offered.

If_______________________________________________________ found, please call 412-760-2291.

Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $49 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 866-752-5908 _______________________________________________________ ATTENTION Diabetics with Medicare Join America`s Diabetic Savings Club and receive a FREE diabetic bracelet. Membership is FREE. Qualify for meter upgrades, prescription delivery and free giveaways. Call 1-888-474-3420 _______________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing.

Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation.

866-983-3264 _______________________________________________________

------------- PETS ---------New Zealand White Rabbits - $25 each for pet or for meat. Call 724-2392196. _______________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer. Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted dogs! 724-249-5777. _______________________________________________________ Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care, daily cleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month. (724) 348-8028. _______________________________________________________

unionfinley.com 53 ——————————————————————————————————————————

ANGELS FOR ANIMALS. Collecting Aluminum Cans for an on-going fundraiser.

(Please no steel, no pie tins, and no aluminum foil.) Also selling Enjoy & Entertainment Books for $25.00 each. For pick up of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724-941-5737.

Dog Training: If your dog isn’t coming to you, you should be coming to me. AKC, Schutzhund, canine good citizen and therapy dog experienced contact karyn727@comcast.net or 412-855-4678.

Office Space For Rent – Finleyville. 1,300 square feet. Former site of Healthy Directions. $800 + Electric. 412-999-7163.

FOR SALE. Investment Property; Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534.

House for rent - Monongahela, 822 Marne St., 2 bedroom, very clean, big 2 car garage, very nice porch, possible rent to own, no pets, $600 per month. Call 412-296-1999. _______________________________________________________ Mobile home for sale - 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, mobile home and 3 lots for sale.

Located at 2 Wood Alley in Carroll Twp. Off Rt. 837, Monongahela. Owner financing considered. $35,000. Call 724-350-5983.

MONONGAHELA - For rent, one, two bedroom apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc. Secured locked building, quaint and quiet. Close to bus line. One bedroom partially furnished. Monongahela. Call 724-258-3179. _______________________________________________________ One, Two Bedroom Apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc.

Secured locked building, quant and quite. Close to bus line. One bedroom partial furnished.

Monongahela. Call Natalee Amati 724-244-8579 or 724-258-3179. _______________________________________________________ FOR RENT - Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfront condorentals.com/ Paradise Resort.htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507.

FOR SALE – Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534.

New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negotiable. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773.

Apartment for rent - 3 bedroom downstairs apartment located at 230 Donnan Ave.,Washington, gas furnace and/or electric baseboard heat, large corner yard, $500 per month plus utilities.First and last month's rent required.Call 724-2589115. _______________________________________________________ 1 flr brick house - a/c & generator. 715 Lincoln Ave., Bentleyville. $160,000.

Call 724-239-3647. _______________________________________________________ 1 Bedroom Apartment for Rent - in the Union Twp. area. Fenced in big yard in a quiet neighborhood. Reasonable rent and clean. Please email me at Budlife3@hotmail.com or call 724-993-0731. _______________________________________________________ Westmoreland County Space for Lease - Located at 1100 South Main Street, Greensburg, is Westmoreland Crossroads with 22,000 Square Feet of prime space available for lease. The holidays are coming and Westmoreland Crossroads offers fantastic storefront suites with abundant parking and direct access to Route 30 and Route 119.Westmoreland Crossroads has a prime location within a high-traffic area and affordable monthly rates. Don't let the cool weather fool you, we have time to put you in the space you need. Call Matthew Ivill_______________________________________________________ today at 724-483-1600 or email him at lease@genindustries.com.

1 Bedroom Apartment - for rent in the Union twp. area. Fenced in big yard in a quiet neighborhood. Reasonable rent and clean. Please email me at Budlife3@hotmail.com or call 724-993-0731. _______________________________________________________ Small house for rent. Country setting. Suitable for one person. Includes sewage and garbage. Close to Rt. 43. No pets. $550 per month. 724-785-2955 _______________________________________________________ Residential lot. South Park. $30,000. Ridge Road. For details email DeniseMarasco@HowardHanna.com or call 4125617400. _______________________________________________________ Apt for Rent - 2 BR, 2nd flr., country, private, by itself. Laundry rm. & porch.

Lots of parking. Updated. No pets. $525+. Call (412) 384-5406. _______________________________________________________ (4632 US RT 40, Claysville) $244,900 - Commercial Building, Offices, Warehouse, 5000+ SF. All Equip. included! Make offer!! Lisa Mull, Prudential Preferred Realty 412-854-7200 ext 228 or 724-678-2454. _______________________________________________________ Building for Rent – 40x60 commercial bldg for rent at 780 Bentleyville Rd., Charleroi, PA. Located just off I-70, Exit 32B, Bentleyville. Call 724-258-9115. _______________________________________________________ 1999 Commodore mobile home. exc. condition. Only 1 owner - bought brand new in 2001. Call 412-600-9061 _______________________________________________________ 2008 Tioga 31M Motorhome - 12,200 miles, like new, loaded, dual slide, 6.8 V10 engine, 5 speed automatic, many upgrades-too many to list. $62,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667. _______________________________________________________ House for Rent - Newly remodeled older 3 or 4 bedroom house for rent in Peters Twp/Venetia. Extra room could be den or bedroom. First, last and security deposit required and credit check. Monthly rent $1200.00 plus utilities.

Separate 1 car garage with room for storage or workshop. Has refrigerator, stove and hook ups for washer and dryer. New kitchen and carpeting. Big yard. Call 724-348-5162. _______________________________________________________ Charleroi Sale or Lease - Renovated 3-Story Building. Commercial lease income.

Also, turnkey bar/restaurant. Call: 724-531-1175. _______________________________________________________

HOUSES FOR SALE - UPSTATE NY FARM SACRIFICE! 40 ACRES - $139,900.

Old farmhouse, barn, pond, 900 ft. stream front, adjacent to County Land! Owner must sell by year’s end! Call (888) 738-6994 NOW! _______________________________________________________ 20 ACRES To Live On ONLY $99/mo.$0/Down.No Credit Checks,Money Back Guarantee, Owner Financing. Near Growing El Paso Texas. Beautiful Mountain Views!

Free Color Brochure. 1-800-843-7537 www.sunsetranches.com _______________________________________________________ ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment. Call now 800-250-2043. _______________________________________________________

Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care, daily cleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month. (724) 348-8028. _______________________________________________________

------------ REAL ESTATE --------

------------ SERVICES ----------Private, guitar or drum lessons available in the Mon Valley area. Lessons can be taught in the comfort of your own home, or at our location. Begin learning the songs you really want to learn the first lesson! Learn tips and tricks tabs will not teach you. Lessons are only $18 per session. Please contact Chad at 724-747-8722, or email cecampsey@gmail.com.

BABYSITTER / NANNY For Summer - Let your kids sleep in & play in the neighborhood. American Red Cross Certified, Experienced, Reasonable, References.

Kelsey: 724-348-6528. _______________________________________________________ South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842 _______________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer. Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted dogs! 724-249-5777. _______________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724825-7233. _______________________________________________________ DVD Transfer/Home Movies – Home Movie Transfers and DVD Montage Creations by Deb Cheplic. 8mm and Super 8mm projector movies transferred to DVD! Frame by frame digital transfer, with amazing clarity. No hidden costs/set up fees.Add music and chapter menus. 724-258-5336. http://web.me.com/dcheplic. _______________________________________________________ COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-3486837. _______________________________________________________ SIDING WINDOWS ROOFING MEREDITH HOME IMPROVEMENTS. 30 years in business. If you need vinyl siding, roofing, windows or soffit and fascia done professionally, with no problems afterward and done at a reasonable price, we are the company to do it! We are so confident in your satisfaction that we require no money until the job is completed. www.MeredithHome Improvements.com (412) 831-9991 _______________________________________________________

————————————————————————————————————————— 54 unionfinley.com

CLASSIFIEDS

MEDIATION -Are you involved in a dispute and do not know the next step to take to get it resolved? Mediation is an option. Has your spouse filed for divorce and you need help in managing the decisions that need to be made? Do you have a consumer dispute? Do you have a conflict in your neighborhood? Do you have a conflict within your family and you need an impartial third party to help the family solve the problem? Then it is Time 2 Talk.As a mediator with 30 years experience, I can help you to talk it out, and negotiate decisions that get the problem resolved. My name is Deidre Kuban and it is Time 2 Talk. The initial 30 minute consultation with me is at no cost to you. Resume and references available on request. Call me at 412-726-1514 or e-mail kuban231@comcast.net.

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

LOCAL BUSINESSES, MERCHANTS AND SERVICES BANQUET FACILITY/ SOCIAL HALL FINLEYVILLE AMERICAN LEGION – Morrison-Ritchie Post 613. 3537 W. Morrison-Ritchie Post 613. 3537 Washington Avenue, Finleyville. “We are dedicated to helping our veterans and our community.” Offering entertainment and a banquet room that accommodates 75 people. For more info, stop in and visit the lodge, or call 724-348-5608.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

CATERING CATERING- ITALIAN SPECIALTY AND GOURMET CATERING LLC. Been est. 35 years. Catering corporate or personal events. Parties from 20 to 5000.

Offering over 25 banquet facilities. All buffets are professionally decorated. Fast service. Reliable and plentiful. Featuring Breadworks breads. BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY EVENTS EARLY. 412-341-4626. www.iscatering.com ______________________________________

COMPUTERS COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow?

Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

DVD TRANSFER/ HOME MOVIES HOME MOVIE TRANSFERS AND DVD MONTAGE CREATIONS BY DEB CHEPLIC. 8mm & Super 8mm projector movies transferred to DVD! Frame by frame digital transfers, with amazing clarity. No hidden costs/set up fees. Add music and chapter menus. 724258-5336. http://web.me.com/dcheplic/.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

GARAGE DOORS WUENSTEL BROTHERS GARAGE DOOR COMPANY – Second Generation family owned. Since 1977.

Residential Replacement Specialists. 3526C Cliff Street, Finleyville. 724-348-7550. (PA-HIC 009388). ______________________________________

GUTTERS ZUBASIC BROS. HOME IMPROVEMENTS – New Seamless Gutters & Repairs 724-941-7833.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

----------- VACATIONS ---------------Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfrontcondo rentals.com/Paradise Resort. htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ___________________________________________ WEEKEND GETAWAY! Deep Creek, Maryland. 5 Bedroom Home for Rent. *Ski Wisp*, Call Dave at 412.427.3691 for more details! _______________________________________________________

READER ADVISORY: Reader Advisory: the National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds.

Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment” but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars.

800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

Monthly Pizza Puzzler!

JEWELERS SOUTHLAND JEWELERS - Family Owned - GOLD = $$$ Every day for Gold, Silver, Plantinum, Coins & Diamonds; Estate & Antique Jewlery & Watches (Includes Famous Designers); Contemporary Metals Jewelry Collection (Stainless Steel/Gold – Ceramic – Tungsten – Titanium; Zable Bead Theme Bracelets (Beads are compatible w/ all bracelets); $25 OFF a $100 purchase (New Purchases only. Excludes repairs); Repairs/Appraisals done on site; Layaways available. Route 51 – next to TC Customized. 412384-8400. www.southlandjewelers.com.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

PLUMBING FRYE BROTHERS PLUMBING - Registered master plumbers. Residential and Commercial. Locally owned and operated. Fully insured and certified. Ed Frye (412) 841-6008. www.fryebrosplumbing.com.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

RESTAURANT THE KICKSTAND BAR & RESTAURANT – Open Daily 3 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Daily Specials; Homemade Soups.

1100 Hayden Blvd. 51 South. 412-384-3080.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– THE KICKSTAND BAR & RESTAURANT - Open Daily 3 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Daily Specials; Homemade Soups.

1100 Hayden Blvd. 51 South. 412-384-3080.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Win a FREE Large “Grande” 1-topping Pizza from 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 Union-Finley 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 “GRANDE” 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 Union-Finley Messenger; Haniford Enterprises LLC, or Vocelli Pizza are not eligible.)

• Official Entry Form •

(Deadline for entries is January 10)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the Union-Finley Messenger.

Which Post Office is in risk of closing?

What is the name of the new massage business that opened in Monongahela?

When will the new Nottingham Township Municipal Building open?

Name: Address: Phone Number: Entry forms should be submitted to: Union-Finley Messenger, Attention: “Monthly Pizza Puzzler,” P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332

Congratulations to our December Pizza Puzzler winners!

TERESA KUSCH - Washington • RANDI MARKOVITZ- Jefferson Hills

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

unionfinley.com 55 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Food & Dining

————————————————————————————————————————— 56 unionfinley.com

January 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Think it’s easy to dodge millions of flu germs traveling at 100 miles per hour?

Protect yourself with a flu shot.

Healthy Directions’ flu vaccine protects against the influenza A and B viruses and H1N1.

Only $25

Major insurance accepted

Walk-in

Finleyville Giant Eagle, 3701 Route 88, Finleyville, PA, 724-348-6699 Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; (Lab opens at 7 a.m. Monday-Saturday) Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

mvhhealthydirections.com