Union Finley Mesenger February 2012

Vol. 8, Issue 10

FEBRUARY 2012

February FREE! FREE!

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com WSO to Celebrate “Heroes�

Through Music Page 18

INDEX: Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 School News . . . . . . . . . . 52 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Entertainment . . . . . . . . 58 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Places To Go . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Food & Dining . . . . . . . . . 47 Children & Family . . . . . 48

Bentleyville Business Offers Assistance to Local Residents with Real Estate Problems Page 34

“ 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

Pleasant Hills Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner March 4

VFW Hosts Oldies Dance at Broughton Fire Hall March 3

The Pleasant Hills Lions Club will hold its annual Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, March 4 from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Hills Borough Building Community Room, 412 East Bruceton Road. The prices are $7 for adults and $4 for children 12 or under. Tickets may be purchased from Lions Club members or at the door. Take-out service will be available. All proceeds go to Lions charities, including aid to the less fortunate, particularly the vision and hearing-impaired, community organizations and projects, and school and recreational activities. Attendees at the dinner are asked to consider bringing donations of non-perishable food items, which the club will deliver to the local food bank. Anyone interested in learning more about the club or membership may call 412-653-4220.

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Join us for an Oldies Dance on Saturday, March 3 at Broughton Fire Hall, Cochran Mill Road, South Park. Doors open at 6 p.m., and food will be served from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Renewed Memories 2 will provide music from 7–11 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person; includes food, beer, pop and setups (BYOB). Evening of fun includes Chinese auction and 50/50 raffle.

Sponsored by VFW Post 1940, Broughton.

For more information, call 412-655-9922 or 724-344-6427.

New Eagle Volunteer Fire Department Hosts Valentine's Day Dinner Show The New Eagle Volunteer Fire Department is hosting their 7th Annual Valentine's Day Dinner Show with the Fabulous Hubcaps on Saturday, February 18, 2012. The event will be held at the New Eagle VFD Social Hall, 165 Chess Street in New Eagle. Doors open at 5 p.m. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35/person, which includes dinner, a show featuring the Fabulous Hubcaps, and dancing. All proceeds benefit the New Eagle Volunteer Fire Department. New this year, BYOB! There will be free beer and pop available and the kitchen will be open for snacks throughout the evening.

For tickets, or more information, please call Bill Tatar at the New Eagle Volunteer Fire Department during the day at 724-258-2117, or in the evening, at 724-258-6530.

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

FEBRUARY 9

FEBRUARY 2 FOOD AND FRIENDS FREE MEAL PROGRAM – Thomas Presbyterian Church, Venetia, 5 to 6:30 p.m. In the case of inclement weather, call Patti at 724-941-6609.

LECTURE ON SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER – Monongahela Valley Hospital Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center, 6 p.m. Also Thursday, March 1, at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX in Rostraver. To register, call 724-258-1333.

FEBRUARY 3 FREE BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS – Peters Township Recreation Center, 8:45 to 10 a.m. Courtesy of the nurses of Canonsburg General Hospital. For more information, call 724-745-6100.

CLASS FOR HOMESCHOOLED CHILDREN – Mingo Creek County Park Outdoor Classroom, park office, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For homeschooled children ages 5 to 11; no fee. To register, call 724-228-6867.

HERMINIE SLOVENIAN CLUB DANCE – Laurel Valley Country Club, 175 Palmer Drive, Ligonier, 8 - 11:30 p.m. Vocals by Luann.

PETERS TOWNSHIP GIRLS SOFTBALL REGISTRATION – Peters Township Recreation Center, 9 a.m. – noon. For Peters Township girls ages 6-18. Online registrations are being accepted until February 4. Late registration is effective February 5-29 (online only).

Coaches are needed. To register online, visit www.ptgirlssoftball.com.

FEBRUARY 4-5 SOUTH HILLS COIN SHOW – Crown Plaza Hotel, Pittsburgh South, 164 Fort Couch Road.

Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free admission. For more information, call 724-984-6611.

INDOOR FLEA MARKETS – Trax Farms, Finleyville, 10 a.m. 83 vendors selling antiques, gifts, collectibles, clothing, apparel, hobbies. For more information, call 412-8353246 or visit www.traxfarms.com.

FEBRUARY 13 VALENTINE CANDLELIGHT STROLL ON ARROWHEAD – Peters Township Recreation Center, Shelter 4/Arrowhead Trail, 6 p.m.

Registration deadline is February 7.

FEBRUARY 11

FEBRUARY 4 BINGOMANIA CHILDREN’S BINGO – Nativity School Cafeteria, South Park. Doors open at 5:15 p.m.; bingo begins at 6 p.m.

Hosted by Saint Katharine Drexel School.

Admission, $6; includes 12 regular games or auction tickets. For tickets, call 412-833-0223.

BETHEL CHURCH LEAGUE RECREATIONAL BASEBALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION – UFAAA (Union Finley) Registration, Finleyville Community Center, 10 a.m. to noon. Also register online. Contact UFAAA’s Ray Beckinger to secure your spot at 724-3486738 or randcbeckinger@msn.com, or call Bob Keibler at 724-518-6072.

FEBRUARY 5 SUNDAY BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER – Every Sunday through April 1, Elizabeth Township Fire Department #1 at the Blythedale Station, Buena Vista. 8 a.m. to 12 noon. For more information, call 412-956-2941.

FEBRUARY 7 ONLINE BANKING SEMINAR – Peters Township Public Library, 7 - 8:45 p.m. Fee is $5, and advance registration is required at the library circulation desk.

FEBRUARY 8 NEEDLE AND YARN CRAFT WORKSHOP – Citizens Library, 55 S. College St., Washington, 10 a.m. Reservations are required by calling 724-228-6867. Fee is $1.

BETHEL CHURCH LEAGUE RECREATIONAL BASEBALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION –UFAAA (Union Finley) Registration, Finleyville Community Center, Finleyville, 6 to 8 p.m. Contact UFAAA’s Ray Beckinger to secure your spot at 724-348-6738 or randcbeckinger@msn.com, or call BCL contact Bob Keibler at 724-518-6072.

VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE – American Legion, Carroll Township, Monongahela, 8 – 11 p.m. Admission is $7; vocals by Luann. For more information, call 724-258-6735.

MONONGAHELA WOMAN’S CLUB MEETING – Monongahela Presbyterian Church, 7 p.m. For further information on projects, programs, or membership, call 724-258-4502.

FAMILY VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE – Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Hall, Jefferson Hills. DJ Craig starts at 6 p.m. Advance tickets at Jefferson Hills Municipal Center, or contact Melissa Steffey at 412-980-4616 or melsteffey@gmail.com. $10/family or $15 at the door.

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

FEBRUARY 14

FEBRUARY 12

MVRCC LUNCHEON – Willow Room, Rostraver Township, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ben Taylor of Great Lakes Regional Office for Congressional and Public Affairs of the United States Chamber of Commerce will speak. Fee is $15/person; call 724-483-3507 for reservations or download a registration form at www.mvrchamber.org, and fax or mail it.

PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE BREAKFAST – St. Francis Church, Finley Hall, Finleyville, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Also visit the used book, CD and DVD sale. Adults are $6; children, $3.

Tickets available after Mass February 4 and 5 or at the door.

GLOBAL THREAT DISCUSSION – Peters Township Library, 7-8:30 p.m. Register in advance by emailing programs@ptlibrary.org or call 724-941-9430.

SUNDAY BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER – Every Sunday through April 1, Elizabeth Township Fire Department #1 at the Blythedale Station, Buena Vista. 8 a.m. to 12 noon. For more information, call 412-956-2941.

BETHEL CHURCH LEAGUE RECREATIONAL BASEBALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION – UFAAA (Union Finley) Registration, Finleyville Community Center, Finleyville, 6 to 8 p.m. Also register online. Contact UFAAA’s

TASTE OF TRAX EVENT – Trax Farms, 528 Trax Road, Finleyville, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sample Trax Farms’ specialties, Arrowhead Wines. For more information, call 412-835-3246 or visit www.traxfarms.com.

FEBRUARY 15

February 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— Ray Beckinger to secure your spot at 724-3486738 or randcbeckinger@msn.com, or call BCL contact Bob Keibler at 724-518-6072.

FEBRUARY 16 FOOD AND FRIENDS FREE MEAL PROGRAM – Thomas Presbyterian Church, Venetia, 5 to 6:30 p.m. In the case of inclement weather, call Patti at 724-941-6609.

FEBRUARY 17-18 HERITAGE PLAYERS PERFORMANCE – Bethel Park Community Center, 8 p.m.

“Bedroom Farce.” Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors. For more information, visit www.heritageplayers.org or call 412831-6800, ext. 745.

FEBRUARY 18 MARDI GRAS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE – Literacy Council of Southwestern PA, 27 S. College St., Washington. Cocktail hour starts at 6 p.m. Featuring Ruby Red and the Dirty Devils. Cajun and Creole food, king cakes, masks, beads, Chinese auction raffle, and silent auction. Tickets are $50 per person. Call 724228-6188 for more information.

FINANCIAL AID SESSION – Peters Township Public Library, first floor meeting room, 10:30 a.m. Preregistration required; email programs@ptlibrary.org, call 724-941-9430, or visit the library circulation desk.

PANCAKE SKATE & WHIRL – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., sponsored by North Strabane Township Parks & Recreation. North Strabane residents pay no admittance fee. Non-residents $3 and all participants are asked to donate a non-perishable food item. Pay $1 for skate rental.

7TH ANNUAL VALENTINE'S DAY DINNER SHOW - The New Eagle Volunteer Fire Department is hosting their Valentine's Day Dinner Show with the Fabulous Hubcaps on February 18. The event will be held at the New Eagle VFD Social Hall. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Dinner starts at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. $35/person. BYOB! For tickets, call Bill Tatar at 724-258-2117 or 724-258-6530.

FEBRUARY 18-19 INDOOR FLEA MARKETS – Trax Farms, 10 a.m. 83 vendors selling antiques, gifts, collectibles, clothing, apparel, hobbies and much more in events room. For more information, call 412-835-3246 or visit www.traxfarms.com.

FEBRUARY 19 DESSERT FESTIVAL – City Mission’s 18th Annual Sweet Sunday, Hilton Garden Inn – Southpointe, 1 to 6 p.m. Pre-sale tickets $4; admission at door is $5 and immediate family of 4 or more costs $20 maximum. Under 3 are free. Café and auction open at noon, dessert tables and Kids Korner open at 1 p.m., auction starts at 4:30 p.m. and other activities begin at 6 p.m. For more information, call 724-2289240 ext. 232 or visit www.citymission.org.

LOCAL NEWS

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SUNDAY BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER – Every Sunday through April 1, Elizabeth Township Fire Department #1 at the Blythedale Station, 1799 Blythedale Road, Buena Vista. 8 a.m. to 12 noon. For more information, call 412-9562941.

HERITAGE PLAYERS PERFORMANCE – Bethel Park Community Center, 2 p.m.

“Bedroom Farce.” Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors. For more information, visit www.heritageplayers.org or call 412831-6800, ext. 745.

desserts, a weekly “special” and more. Take-out dinners are available by calling 412-655-9966.

FEBRUARY 25

HERITAGE PLAYERS AUDITIONS – Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue, 6 - 8 p.m. For the suspense thriller, “Night Watch.” Auditions are for ages 18 and up with cold readings from the script and headshot and resume optional.

FEBRUARY 21

WINE AND BEER TASTING – Rolling Hills Country Club, 6:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit St. Katharine Drexel School students. Taste domestic and international wines and craft beers. Buffet dinner and silent auction. $50 per person or $95 per couple and must be purchased in advance. For more information, call St. Katharine Drexel School at 412-833-0223.

HERITAGE PLAYERS AUDITIONS – Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue, 7 - 9 p.m.. For the suspense thriller, “Night Watch.” Auditions are for ages 18 and up with cold readings from the script and headshot and resume optional.

SWPA RN CLUB MEETING – Hamilton Presbyterian Church, Bethel Park, 9:30 a.m.

Linda Organist, RN, BSN, MSN, CRNA will present “What’ s New in Womens’ Bladder Problems?” All RNs are welcome. Contact Judy at 412 980-5185 for more information.

FEBRUARY 24 - 25 HERITAGE PLAYERS PERFORMANCE – Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue, 8 p.m. “Bedroom Farce.” Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors. For more information, visit the website at www.heritageplayers.org or call 412-831-6800, ext. 745.

HERITAGE PLAYERS PERFORMANCE – Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue, 2 p.m. “Bedroom Farce.” Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors. For more information, visit the website www.heritageplayers.org or call 412-831-6800, ext. 745.

FEBRUARY 27

FEBRUARY 22 FISH FRY – St Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St., Monongahela, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

All Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

FISH FRY – St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Finley Hall, Rt. 88, Finleyville. Take-outs only from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Order by calling 724-3480803 the day of the fish fry. Dinners plus takeouts will be served from 2 to 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $7.50/adult and $5/child.

FISH FRY – Trax Farms, Finleyville. Every Friday during Lent until 5 p.m. Dinners include homemade coleslaw and your choice of macaroni and cheese or haluski for $7.99.

For more information, call 412-835-3246.

PSYCHIC FAIR – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Ave., West Mifflin, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Variety of psychics/mediums/tarot card/rune readers/aura photographer. Metaphysical items, books, jewelry, and gemstones for sale.

For more information, contact Rachael Slifko at 412-770-4961 or the.chapel@verizon.net.

FEBRUARY 26 SUNDAY BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER – Every Sunday through April 1, Elizabeth Township Fire Department #1 at the Blythedale Station, Buena Vista. 8 a.m. to 12 noon. For more information, call 412-956-2941.

MARCH 1 LECTURE ON SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER – Mon-Vale HealthPLEX at WillowPointe Plaza, Route 51, Rostraver, 6 p.m. Psychiatrist Amanda M. Rush, M.D., will discuss depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) at MVH’s free community Innovations in Medicine lecture series. Free parking; light refreshments. Reservations are required by calling 724-258-1333.

FISH FRY – Nativity Church of South Park.

Eat in or take out between 4 and 7 p.m.

Dinners include fried or baked fish, a choice of two sides, coffee or tea. 50/50, treasure chest raffle and bake sale. For more information, call 412-854-3133.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME – Monongahela Area Library, 11 a.m. For children ages 30 months through 5 years. Singing, free play or games, and a craft in addition to the books being read. To register, call 724-258-5409.

FEBRUARY 24 FISH FRY – Bethel Park American Legion, 3 – 8 p.m. All Fridays during Lent, eat in and take out. Upstairs will be open to the public. For more information, call 412-835-9690.

GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT DINNER – Canonsburg General Hospital McNary Conference Center, 6 p.m. Chaplain Rev. Cathy Peternel will host a dinner for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one. $6.50. To register, call 724-745-6100, ext.

4118.

FISH FRY – St. Thomas A’ Becket Church School, Jefferson Hills, 3:30 to 7 p.m. Every Friday in Lent, including Good Friday. Fish dinners shrimp dinners, fish sandwich, French fries, coleslaw, haluski, soup, homemade

®

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Rewards Should Result from Personal Effort Dear Editor, While on vacation for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, I was visiting my father-in-law, who resides in the Mon Valley. I picked up a copy of your newspaper out of curiosity and read the Letter to the Editor from Gene Kuban. I think Mr. Kuban needs to rethink his position on what “every human being everywhere” is entitled to.

What I think Mr. Kuban obviously doesn’t realize is that if you give someone something for free, what would be their incentive to ever stop receiving these government paid (which means it’s paid for by those of us who work for a living) entitlements and make it on their own? The answer is simple ... they wouldn't be motivated to stop. Not only that, but it would go above and beyond what is needed. Sound familiar? That's right; it’s exactly what is wrong with the current welfare system already in place.

My advice to Mr. Kuban is simply this: Go out and find a homeless person.

Move this person into your own personal residence, feed him, clothe him, and pay for his medical expenses for the remainder of his life. I’m sure you personally would have no problem whatsoever with doing this, right, Mr. Kuban? Also remember that before you start calling for cuts in military spending, remember this is the same military that keeps you safe and allows you the freedom to comment on what the government should be doing.

I have read the Constitution from beginning to end many times. I read that everyone has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I don't ever remember reading that they have the right to a home or healthcare. If you want these things, then you have the freedom and liberty to pursue them, not the expectation of receiving them without personal effort.

Jay Burbee Knightdale, NC

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 UnionFinley 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.

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Is the New Ringgold School Board the Last School Board?

Dear Editor, The actions and decisions of the current Ringgold School Board have left me wondering if they will be the same faces of the last school board?

Despite the opposition of the majority of the districts residents, it appears that they plan to move ahead with plans to close the current middle school, (Finley).

There is no debate that Finley has its share of problems, like most of the buildings in the district. However, their current plan to reopen DEC and MEC only a year after closing them due to the unfit conditions for students and a proposed 3 mills savings generated from closing those two schools is nonsensical.

The board wants to do what they call “bare bones” improvements to get the students into the buildings. They have ignored reports from the architects that they hired stating that Finley is safe. They have ignored queries about additional staffing costs, operating costs, transportation costs and maintenance costs to operate two buildings instead of one. They state they don’t have money for a new building and they don’t see a need for one since our enrollment has seen a constant decline. They are taking the backward thinking approach to the declining population problem. They are continuing to make poor decisions that make our district an unappealing place to live.

Any prospective home buyer’s first question is going to be, “What is the school district like?” Are they going to want to send their children to mold-ridden, asbestos-filled, dilapidated buildings? If they continue on with their plan, I feel they may see not only fewer home sales, but also more families taking advantage of cyber, private or charter schools.

They are making decisions that will determine the fate of this district and I don’t see it surviving such a monumental mistake. They are going to waste what little money we do have to make repairs that will hold those schools over for a few years and then what? We aren’t going to have any more money later if we aren’t generating any revenue. We may be following in the steps of other poorly run districts and may ultimately be forced to dissolve it completely.

Gwen St.Cyr, Union Township

Nottingham Resident Opposes School Board’s Plan Dear Editor, In December 2011, five new Ringgold School Board directors were sworn in. At their reorganizational meeting, newly elected Director Mr. L. Mauro introduced a plan to close the Ringgold Middle School (RMS) in Finleyville and send the students to the new Ringgold Elementary School South (RESS) building in Carroll Township. The Monongahela (MEC) and Donora (DEC) buildings, closed last year, would be reopened to house the displaced students from RESS. Mauro’s plan was passed, 7-2. This plan was later revised to leave RESS as is but close RMS and house the displaced students at MEC and DEC. It’s worth noting that this was the Board’s first meeting, yet they already put forth a plan for a new configuration for the school buildings. This occurred before they had the opportunity to review facility, financial, and curriculum information that would be required to make an intelligent decision regarding such a plan.

Many of the Board Directors that reflect the new Board majority have arrogantly stated, prior to taking office, that their agenda is to reopen MEC and DEC, regardless of public opinion, and that appears to be just what they’re doing. Mr. Chuck Smith, the newly elected Board President said he didn’t expect much public outcry over the decision to close RMS because four new

directors won by large majorities after having campaigned on frugality. He couldn’t have been more wrong. As soon as the Board made their intentions known at the December meeting, public outcry began. The Board held meetings on December 21 and 22, just before the Christmas holidays. Several residents attended these meetings, despite their busy schedules. A petition, signed by about 300 people that did not want RMS closed, was presented to the Board at the December meeting Workshops were held in January in which the Ringgold Interim Director of Maintenance and Architect, HHSDR, reported further details regarding the conditions at MEC and DEC. Their reports and the pictures they showed portrayed the conditions at these schools, and they are deplorable. Pictures of the schools so outraged parents that some demanded that their children were not sent to these schools. The Board appears to have ignored their complaints. After all, they have an agenda to complete.

The Board has said that they’re doing this because RMS is unsafe, yet their own engineer’s report states that the building is safe. They say that their plan saves money, yet from a financial standpoint we needlessly spend a minimum of $10M and lose the 3-mill tax savings realized from the closure of MEC and DEC last year. From an educational standpoint, this plan would likely necessitate curriculum cuts because staff would be shared between two schools. From a logistics standpoint, the plan doesn’t make sense because we would be bussing to two buildings rather than one. The $10M proposal did not reflect the increased maintenance and transportation costs and other facility renovations that would be required to house middle school students. So, please quit insulting our intelligence with your “concern” for our financial situation. If the Board was concerned with the district’s finances, they’d do the responsible thing and abandon this plan because in 5 to 10 years we’ll be right back to where we started – having to address the need to build a new school. The vision of the previous Board, on which Mr. Smith held a seat and voted to close the two elementary schools, was to build a new middle or high school. The architects stated that even if the Board decides to proceed with this plan today, the reopened schools will not be ready to house students in the fall.

At the Wednesday, January 18 meeting, the Board made a motion to hold a public hearing on February 29. The law requires the Board to hold a public hearing at least three months before the Board’s decision regarding the school closing. I ask the Ringgold School Board, what do you think is the purpose of this meeting? Do you believe that this meeting is to allow for public comment to influence the Board’s decision? Or, is the purpose of this meeting to meet the requirements of the law so that the Board can cast the vote that has already been determined? It appears that, regardless of public opinion, and facts to the contrary, the Board has decided to proceed with this plan. I was under the impression that the purpose of the public meeting is for the public to have input into the Board’s decision. So I ask – even if the Board goes through the MOTIONS of holding these hearings – Have they met the intent of the Law? Maureen Ott, Nottingham Township

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Too Many "Pauls" are Ruining America!

Ringgold Rams or Smithville Sheep??

Dear Editor: Let’s see, the school board President makes his living by running a bar and a trailer court. Board Member B is his brother, and B’s son and daughter-in-law are employed by the district. Member C is the President’s good ol’ buddy and allegedly on his group insurance plan. Member D is the President’s tenant in the trailer court. Member E is also related to the President, and Member F is E’s cousin.

Welcome to Smithville!! Not the latest Facebook game, but the current state of affairs in the Ringgold School District where the object is for Board President Chuck Smith and his family to maximize their control over the district at the expense of the resident taxpayers and students. Current rumors are that the positions for head of maintenance and athletic director are next in line for other family members or cronies.

King Chuck’s master plan also includes reopening school buildings in Monongahela and Donora that were closed last year. These buildings are over 80 years old, in need of significant repair, and the district taxpayers were saved 3 mills in annual taxes when they were closed. So the students will get old facilities and we’ll forfeit our tax savings. What’s behind this plan?

Could it be that Chuck is out to make the district pay for the previous Board not acceding to his family’s demands for approximately six times the market value of their property adjacent to the current high school when potential sites for a new school were being explored a couple years ago? Or is it a vendetta for his son not being hired as athletic director in 2010? Could it be that the next step is to spend the 30 to 50 million dollars needed to bring these facilities up to local building codes, and who knows where that money will end up? Or could it be that Chuck just likes to throw his weight around?

Residents of Ringgold, wake up and see how this Board intends to throw away your tax dollars. Not just the folks in Union and Nottingham Townships, but you too in Monongahela, New Eagle, Donora, & Carroll. Is this what you wanted when you voted for the Smith clan? Check out the architect’s report with pictures and estimates on the Ringgold website (www.ringgold.org) showing the deplorable condition of the Monongahela and Donora buildings, and decide for yourself.

Consider also how this situation will appear to an outsider thinking about moving to the area, and what effect that will have on all of our property values.

The Smithville spin is that the current middle school is dangerously unsafe and must be closed ASAP, despite repeated inspections by structural engineers that conclude just the opposite – see the website for these too. This propaganda is nothing more than irresponsible scare tactics designed to get the project started and the money flowing before you wise up.

The unfortunate part of the controversy is that no consideration whatsoever is being given to the educational needs of the district students. What does it say about how Ringgold values education when its only vision is to provide students with just bare-bones, aging school facilities? Impacts on curriculum and staffing associated with the Smith master plan have not even been discussed.

So, Ringgold residents, come to the open Board meeting on Feb. 15, or the public hearing on the closure of the middle school on Feb. 29. See the arrogance of the Smiths in action for yourself. Spread the word – expose this offensive Board now. The taxpayers and students of this district deserve better.

Mike Ott, Nottingham Township

Dear Editor, I am writing in disagreement to Gene Kuban's letter in the January issue titled "Government Should Provide Basic Needs For All." Wouldn't that be nice?

Wouldn't it be great if everything was free, and everyone got all of their basic needs covered by the government without having to earn it or pay for it? What a utopian society that would be! Actually - what a Socialist, European society that would be. And we all know that Socialism only works until you run out of everyone else's money. Socialism has failed over and over again throughout history.

Where's the motivation or incentive for people to educate themselves and get a job? If all of our basic needs are going to be provided to us by the government ... (at the expense of higher taxes for those who actually work). Socialism rewards apathy and laziness, and punishes entrepreneurism and work ethic.

When Mr. Kuban says "government should legislate to provide these entitlements," where does he think the government is getting this money from? What he really means is that the government should pass laws to take money from those who have worked hard, and have earned it, and give it to those who haven't. In other words, "robbing from Peter to pay Paul." Well, it seems like there are increasingly more "Pauls" in the world today who feel entitled to a handout, and feel like they have a right to "Peter's" hard- earned money. People in this country need to stop looking for handouts, and start capitalizing on the freedom and the right to pursue happiness that this country offers. As the saying goes ... "Give a man a fish - he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, he will eat for a lifetime!"

Mr. Kuban's intention is a noble one. All good Americans don't want to see people go hungry, homeless, or without medical care. The United States is full of caring and giving people, and that's why we donate and give to charity and volunteer more than any other country in the world. There are plenty of nonprofit organizations, charities and churches that address these needs. Is there a need to do more - perhaps. Maybe our government can offer more tax breaks, deductions as incentives to high income earners and corporations to give even more to charity, or to invest their monies into distressed communities. This certainly is fairer than "confiscating" the money from those who work hard for it so that the government can subsidize housing and medical care for less educated and less motivated individuals. All Americans will gladly support those in need ... the elderly, the disabled, and economically disadvantaged children. But we are adverse to the government taking our money to provide entitlements and services to the apathetic and lazy, when the rest of us have to earn it!

And as for Mr. Kuban's suggestion to cut 20% of our military budget at a time when a large part of the world hates us, and when terrorist nations are developing nuclear weapons? Does that make any sense? Is 9/11 that far of a distant memory that he has forgotten how dangerous the world is? Our government needs to use our tax dollars to provide the strongest military in the world to protect our sovereignty and citizens, and to discourage attacks on U.S. soil. And then they should use our remaining tax dollars to maintain our infrastructure and municipal authorities (road repairs, bridges, water lines, community parks, etc.), and then they should get the heck out of the way and let the free market handle the rest!

Remember - A government that relies on Peter to pay Paul can always count on the voting support from Paul. Here is hoping that in November 2012, the "Peters" of this country wake up and get out to vote. Otherwise, the "Pauls" will continue to vote themselves free money and entitlements, and we will get four more years of this nightmare that could mean the end of the American Dream for all.

Tino Fischer, Glassport

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LOCAL NEWS

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Parents Incensed at Ringgold School Board’s Intentions

Prepare Your Sweet Tooth for City Mission’s Sweet Sunday Dessert Festival

Dear Editor, If you attended the Ringgold School Board meeting on January 18 and left before 11:30 p.m. believing that your concerns and earlier discussions actually would be taken into consideration, you were unfortunately mistaken. Once the board completed all of the published meeting agenda items and took a recess, its real agenda emerged. Motions were made to convene a public meeting on February 29 to vote on the closure of Ringgold Middle School (RMS, formerly Finley); the date of said closure will be determined at a later date. A motion was then made to begin work to make Donora Elementary Center (DEC) and Monongahela Elementary Center (MEC) usable. So, all of the talk of “four options being evaluated” and “no decision has been made” was deceptive on the part of at least one member of the board, who made the motions, and the six other members who voted with him to carry these motions, were likely aware of the real agenda.

This board is being disingenuous with its constituency about this matter. It’s obvious to me and the others who stayed to the abysmal end that this board keeps its own council, and the voters are not relevant. They claimed a mandate when there were only the number of candidates to fill the open positions on the ballot, and they were cross-registered so voting a party line netted those votes from any party. Once again, the board’s claims are disingenuous and deceptive.

One of the few truths purported by the board that evening was evident in Chuck Smith’s statements questioning future enrollment in the district. The things he put forth are going to be self-fulfilling prophecies, as people already do not move to this area because of the district’s poor ratings, and this trend will continue.

Mt. Lebanon’s schools are housed in very old buildings, and it is the number one rated district in the area. Their buildings have been well maintained, and the money wasn’t squandered on research into pipe dreams of boards bent on inaction. Their staff is well compensated, and the curriculum is first rate. Ringgold’s old buildings are dilapidated hulks, and the staff and curriculum suffer at every turn because of all the focus on where the education will happen. This continued approach will guarantee Mr. Smith’s predictions of continued decline, even should the Route 43 connectors to the airport and Pittsburgh be completed and spur economic growth in the district within my lifetime.

This board’s vision is short sighted, narrow minded, and all too typical of the education system in Pennsylvania. Please, if you are a resident of the district and want your opinion to count, attend the meetings on February 15 and 29. Make it known where you stand, and refuse to be ignored.

Mr. and Mrs. Chad Jones, Concerned Parents and Residents

City Mission’s 18th Annual Sweet Sunday Dessert Festival will be held this year on Sunday, February 19, at the Hilton Garden Inn – Southpointe. The festival began in 1993 when two board members saw the potential for having a family day of fun in the middle of the cold winter. What started off as a few desserts and auction items has grown into City Mission’s largest fundraiser, raising a net amount that increases each year. The net income for the 2011 Sweet Sunday was $98,000.

This year’s festival will include 22 youth, amateur and professional desserts, three celebrity judges and a guest emcee, as well as a café featuring lunch items, a Kids Korner, ticket auction with 45 gift baskets, and appearance by Huggie Bear – the City Mission mascot. Pre-sale tickets cost $4, admission at the door is $5, an immediate family of 4 or more costs $20 maximum, and kids under age 3 are free. Café and auction open at noon, dessert tables and Kids Korner open at 1 p.m., auction starts at 4:30 p.m. and other activities begin at 6 p.m.

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

Local Author Dedicates Book and Portion of Proceeds to Law Enforcement Heroes Union-Finley Messenger reporter Charlotte Hopkins of West Elizabeth started off the new year with the release of her new book Everything You Wanted to Know About the Heroes in Blue! The book chronicles the history of law enforcement and gives a peek behind the badge and into the lives of the men and women in blue, including Forward Township Officer Travis Stoffer and fallen heroes Officer Michael Crawshaw of Penn Hills and Officer Derek Kotecki of Lower Burrell.

Hopkins will donate a percentage of the sales— 10% going to the BJ McCombs Memorial Fund and another 10% going to Clairton Officer James Officer Shawn Revis of Jefferson Kuzak. BJ McCombs is the son of Officer Billy Hills Police Department was the McCombs. During a house fire, BJ suffered thirdinspiration for the book “Everything degree burns that covered his body. He passed You Wanted to Know About the Heroes in Blue”. away when he was 8 years old. Officer Kuzak of the Clairton Police Department was shot and paralyzed when he responded to a home invasion on April 4, 2011. The book is available onLulu.com, Kindle and Nook. After February 15, the book will be available through Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

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.

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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

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LOCAL NEWS

Carroll Township Residents Recognized for Recycling Efforts

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Historical Beauty of Elizabeth PNC Restored

State Rep. Peter J. Daley, D-Fayette/Washington, credited the residents of Carroll Township for their efforts to recycle, which has resulted in a state grant for the municipality. Carroll Township will receive a $5,049 grant based on the 480.9 tons recycled for calendar year 2009. This is up from the 357.2 tons the township recycled in 2008.

"It may take a few extra minutes to separate the trash, but the results are well worth it in terms of not only the environment but also economic growth in the Commonwealth," Daley said. "I applaud the residents and businesses of Carroll Township that were diligent in recycling. That effort has paid off in many ways.�

The grant was awarded by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection through its Recycling Performance Grant Program, which provides incentives to help communities increase the amount of materials recovered through recycling and to promote economic growth through job creation and market expansion.

Elizabeth Township Fire Department Hosts Sunday Breakfast Fundraiser Breakfast begins again every Sunday at the Elizabeth Township Fire Department #1 at the Blythedale Station, 1799 Blythedale Rd., Buena Vista.

Breakfast started January 8 and will run through Lent for 13 weeks concluding on April 1 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Please come help support our cause, and enjoy a good meal with friends. For questions or more information, please call 412-956-2941.

Elizabeth PNC Bank before removing the plywood that has covered its second and third floor windows.

Following the restoration, the appearance of the historical PNC Bank building in Elizabeth is greatly improved.

In keeping with the improvements to the Business District of Elizabeth Borough, the Elizabeth Branch of PNC Bank has removed the plywood that has covered the second and third floor windows of this building for years. These before and after photos show the huge difference this made to restore the historical beauty of this building and to positively contribute to the overall appearance of the Market and Second Street facades. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS

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Borough Code 150.1 requires all dog owners in Pleasant Hills to obtain a dog license for dogs 6 months of age and older the first business day of January and every year thereafter. Owners must show proof of rabies vaccine from a veterinarian. The dog license fee is $10 and applications are available at the Pleasant Hills Municipal Building, Administration Department, 2nd floor, Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Big Band Dinner Dance The Steel Valley Rotary’s Big Band Dinner Dance featuring the 17-piece Graham Grubb Orchestra with vocalist Gerri Hall will once again perform at the Westwood Golf Club near Kennywood Park on Saturday, March 31. The doors will open at 5 p.m. There will be a cash bar and a sit-down dinner at 6 p.m. Dancing will start at 7 p.m., and the event will include the famous basket auction and a fifty-fifty. All proceeds will benefit local charities. Reservations are suggested. Tickets are $40 per person and can be obtained by calling Jack Seckel at 412-655-7500, ext. 338.

Call early to attend this outstanding entertainment event.

PLEASANT HILLS PUBLIC LIBRARY OFFERS FEDERAL TAX FORMS AND ASSISTANCE Federal Tax Forms are available at Pleasant Hills Public Library, Old Clairton Road, and AARP Tax Help Volunteers will offer assistance there on Tuesdays from 12:30 – 8 p.m. starting February 7 through April 10. Helped is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 412-655-2424 for further information.

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL NEWS

“Friends” Gear Up for 2012 Spring Book Sale The Friends of South Park Township Library will be holding their Annual Spring Book Sale in the South Park Township Community Center, 2575 Brownsville Road in South Park Township beginning Thursday evening, April 19 from 6 to 8 p.m., and continuing on Friday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 21, the ever-popular “$5 a Bag Day” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friends provides the bag for you to fill with anything at the sale.

As you enjoy your wintertime reading, please keep Friends in mind and save your books for this upcoming sale, along with miscellaneous items stated below.

You can bring donated items to the South Park Township Library beginning March 24. Due to lack of storage space, we cannot accept items until this date and would appreciate you keeping all items in a clean, dry area so they will be in good, clean, saleable condition. Also, it’s important that you place all donated items in boxes due to limited space; book sale items need to be stored in the library lobby.

If you or someone you know have books and items and will not able to bring them to the library or plan to be moving before the above date, please call the library at 412-833-5585 to make special arrangements.

The following are items needed for the sale: all books (hardback, paperback, fiction, non-fiction, children, adult, school, educational, coffee table); old records, albums, books on tape, audio music tapes, CDs, DVDs, videotapes, video games, computer and electronic games and programs; and games, puzzles, toys and stuffed animals (should contain all parts and pieces and be placed in boxes taped shut).

Encyclopedia sets should not be more than eight years old. Friends do not accept magazines, small Reader’s Digests, National Geographics, jewelry or flea market/garage sale items and no longer accepts computer books, programs, discs, business or tax publications, manuals and directories older than one year.

Watch for upcoming Union-Finley Messenger issues for further details. For more information on Friends, please visit www.southparklibrary.org/spfriends.htm.

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Learn the Ins and Outs of Online Banking at PT Library According to a recent survey, 73% of online households – 58% of all U.S. households – reported paying a bill online at a biller or bank website in the last month. Have you hesitated to become part of this trend and would like to learn more? The Peters Township Public Library will host Kristen Painter, Branch Manager, Washington Financial Bank/Valley Brook, who will discuss how online banking makes it easy and convenient to check account activity, transfer funds, and pay bills.

Learn how to easily navigate these features on Tuesday, February 7 from 7 - 8:45 p.m. The fee for this program is $5, and advance registration is required at the library circulation desk.

Purchase a WAHS Valentine Card The Washington Area Humane Society is now taking orders for Valentine Cards! For $6, you can send your special someone a valentine and help the shelter, too! Your special someone will receive a picture of a shelter animal with your message inside. Please complete the form available online at www.washingtonpashelter.org/ and return your form to WAHS Valentine, PO Box 66, Eighty Four, PA 15330 by February 3 with your $6 donation.

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Peters Township Library to Host “Let’s Talk About It: Making Sense of the American Civil War” Peters Township Public Library will host a five-part reading and discussion series which will focus on making sense of the American Civil War. Peters Township Public Library is one of four Pennsylvania libraries chosen to partner with Pennsylvania Humanities Council. Readings selected for the program will provide a glimpse of the vast sweep and profound breadth of the Civil War. Registration for this program requires a commitment to attend the discussions on each of the following Sundays from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Peters Township Public Library: February 26, March 25, April 29, May 20, and June 24. Limited to 25 persons with valid Peters Township Public Library cards. Registration forms are available at the reference desk on the second floor of the library and must be completed in person by the participant. For more information, contact Pier Lee, at 724-941-9430.

Local Barbershop Quartets Offer Singing Valentines The championship Steel City Harmonizers barbershop chorus will once again send its quartets throughout the area to provide their popular Singing Valentines to the sweethearts of those who request them. Singing Valentine includes two romantic ballads, a rose and a box of candy. Quartets will sing in homes, restaurants, offices, retirement or nursing facilities, hospitals, stores – wherever the customer requests. The quartets will be available during the days surrounding Valentine’s Day. Singing Valentines start at $40, and proceeds are used to support the Pittsburgh Metro chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. To schedule, call 1-888-796-3008.

Upcoming Events at Trax Farms Taste of Trax Offers Samples of Delicious Eats We are opening up our pantry for a day of sampling, so come try our Trax Farms specialties. Numerous vendors, like Wind & Willow, Miller’s Mustard, Boars Head, Evelyn’s Edibles, Albert’s Meats, Schneider’s Dairy and more, also will showcase their wonderful eats. Free tasting of award-winning local winery Arrowhead Wines will be available as well. For those with a sweet tooth, come by and try our fudge and other baked goods. Come hungry. The Taste of Trax will be held 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturdays, February 11 and March 10.

Trax Farms Hosts Indoor Flea Markets Need something for the family to do during winter? There is no better place to turn than Trax Farms Indoor Flea Market. You are guaranteed to find something unique from the 83 vendors selling antiques, gifts, collectibles, clothing, apparel, hobbies and much more in our events room. Whether you're just browsing or ready to buy, there is something for everyone. Free parking and free admission make this the perfect excuses to get the entire family out of the house. The flea market starts at 10 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, February 4 - 5, 18 - 19, and March 3 – 4.

There are only 83 spots available for vendors, so come in to reserve your spot ASAP. For only $30, you get a 10 x 10 space available for the entire weekend. If you reserve and prepay for all three weekends, it’s only $27 per weekend. Spaces can be purchased with credit cards over the phone; however, these spaces will be assigned a spot number by the event coordinator at a later date. Please have your credit card ready when you call. Vendor must apply in person if they wish to select their own spot numbers.

Trax Farms Offers Lenten Dinners Let us do the cooking for you ... Lenten foods are available from our deli starting Ash Wednesday, February 22 and every Friday during Lent. In our hot case, baked or battered fish sandwiches and dinners are offered until 5 p.m. every Friday during Lent. Lenten salads and soups are also available. Don’t forget to order your Easter ham early.

The Jumbo Battered or Baked Fish Sandwich Dinner includes a battered or baked fish served on a fresh-baked bun with lettuce and tartar sauce with homemade cole slaw and your choice of creamy macaroni and cheese overflowing with a delicious cheese sauce or freshly cut cabbage and egg noodles, slowly cooked with slices of onion in farm-fresh butter—all of this for just $7.99 a dinner!

Trax Farms is located at 528 Trax Road, Finleyville (Rt. 88 between Library and Finleyville), and store hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. For more information, call 412-835-3246 or visit www.traxfarms.com.

Finleyville Pancake and Sausage Breakfast - February 12 St. Francis Church, Finley Hall, Finleyville will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on February 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pancakes, sausage and beverage - adults $6, children $3. All-you-can-eat pancakes; additional charge for extra sausage. Tickets available after Mass February 4 and 5 or at the door. Also visit the used book, cd, and dvd sale.

Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and the Columbiettes.

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL NEWS

Finleyville Vocelli Pizza Employee Wins Corporate Contest Taryn Burney, a cook/phone order taker at the Finleyville Vocelli's location, recently won the $2,000 grand prize in the company’s Mystery Shopper competition sponsored by Vocelli’s corporate office. For the contest, volunteers were selected to place orders at Vocelli Pizza locations in their delivery area and give feedback.

Employees receiving a 100% satisfaction score on their part in the survey, including Burney, were entered into a random drawing each month to receive prizes. At the end of the final month, all of the 100% participants went into a grand prize drawing for prizes including $2,000, $1,000 and an iPad. The photo shows her elated reaction to the news of her prize from Dan McSweeney at the corporate office. Congratulations, Taryn!

WCCF Raffling Penguin Tickets for Final Regular Season Game on Home Ice Washington County Community Foundation is raffling off four Pittsburgh Penguins tickets and a parking pass for the April 7 game against the Philadelphia Flyers at CONSOL Energy Center – the final regular season game on home ice. The game tickets, donated by rose plastic, are in section 119, row E – only five rows from the ice and behind the goal that the Penguins defend twice. Raffle tickets are $5 each. The winner will be determined by the first validated Pennsylvania Lottery number drawn at 7 p.m. on March 23, 2012.

Cumulatively, this annual raffle has raised over $20,000 to support a variety of grant-making funds of the WCCF. Proceeds from this year’s raffle will also benefit a variety of funds, including the arts fund, which supports performing, visual and creative arts, as well as cultural and historic projects in Washington County.

Raffle tickets are available for purchase through WCCF Trustees or by contacting the foundation at 724-222-6330 or marketing@wccf.net.

Heritage Players Announce Season The Heritage Players will present the comedy, "Bedroom Farce," February 17 and 18 and 24 - 25 at 8 p.m., and February 19 and 26 at 2 p.m. at the Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors.

The Heritage Players will hold auditions for the suspense thriller, "Night Watch," February 26 from 6 - 8 p.m. and February 27 from 7 9 p.m. at the Bethel Park Community Center. Auditions are for ages 18 and up with cold readings from the script and headshot and resume optional.

The Heritage Players announce the 2012 season: February, "Bedroom Farce"; May, "Night Watch"; October: "The Sound of Music"; and much more. For more information on any of the upcoming events, please visit www.heritageplayers.org or call 412-831-6800, ext. 745.

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

Give Daffodils.

Give Hope.

Amy Kaminski has been appointed chairperson of the 39th annual American Cancer Society Daffodil Days in Allegheny County. The fundraiser is expected to raise $480,000 locally and more than $4 million dollars in the state of Pennsylvania. Joining Kaminski on the committee organizing this event is co-chair Kelly Quesnelle, kickoff chair Alia Pustorino-Clevenger, social media chair Tim Hindes and sponsorship chair Ann Howley.

KDKA anchor Jennifer Antkowiak will once again serve as honorary chairperson in 2012.

The daffodil is the first flower of spring and is the perennial American Cancer Society symbol of hope for cancer patients throughout the community. The dollars raised through Daffodil Days enable the American Cancer Society to save more lives and create more birthdays by helping people stay well and helping people get well by finding cures and by fighting back.

Receive a bunch of flowers for a donation of $10, box of 500 for $500, or a half box of 250 for $250. This year also marks the addition of Shar N. Hope, the eighth in a special Boyds™ Bear collection designed exclusively for the American Cancer Society Daffodil Days, and Bear and a Bunch™ that can be ordered for a donation of $25. A Vase and a Bunch offering is available for $15. Also, you can help give comfort to a child in need in your community by delivering an anonymous Boyds Bear to them with a donation of $25 to Project Care. In addition, Gift of Hope offers a chance to deliver an anonymous bunch of daffodils and cancer information to a local cancer patient with a donation of $10 or more.

To place an order, call the American Cancer Society office at 888-2275445. The last day to place an advanced order is Tuesday, February 21; daffodils will be delivered the week of March 19 - 25.

St. Katharine Drexel School Council’s Annual Wine and Beer Tasting St. Katharine Drexel School Council’s Annual Wine and Beer Tasting will be held at Rolling Hills Country Club on Saturday, February 25 at 6:30 p.m. This year’s event will include domestic and international wines; craft beers; a buffet dinner featuring two entrees, pasta, salad and dessert; and the opportunity to bid on a number of generously donated items. Tickets are $50 per person or $95 per couple and must be purchased in advance. Tickets for this year’s event are limited. Attire is business casual; no jeans are permitted. You can also follow the event on Facebook “St. Katharine Drexel School Wine and Beer Tasting and Silent Auction.” For more information, please call St Katharine Drexel School at 412-833-0223. All proceeds benefit St. Katharine Drexel School students.

Angel Ridge Animal Rescue Offers Valentine Fundraiser and Sweetheart’s Special Valentine’s Day can sneak up on you after all the previous holidays have worn you out. We are ready to help you by making one task a little easier.

Save yourself the gas, the time, the rush, the lines, and the inconvenience of shopping for a Valentine! Let us send your special someone an original, custom-designed Valentine, and help support Angel Ridge Animal Rescue at the same time.

For a $5 donation, we will sign, fold, stamp, and mail your card on Friday, February 10, to your Valentine. All proceeds benefit Angel Ridge. Download a form from the Angel Ridge website at www.angelridgeanimalrescue.org/Vform.pdf. Fill out the form, enclose your check made payable to Angel Ridge Animal Rescue, and mail it to: P.O. Box 94, Meadowlands, PA 15347. We will take care of the rest. And thank you for sharing the love!

In addition, throughout the month of February, Angel Ridge is offering a Sweetheart’s Special on adoptions—$30 off the adoption price of all adult dogs. It’s so nice to have a warm dog next to you during those frigid winter nights. Come see who else is ready to go home and cuddle with you!

Mark These Dates for Meetings With State Representative Rick Saccone • Older and Wiser Living Wills and Power of Attorney Seminar Thursday, February 16 at 10 a.m.

Jefferson Hills Municipal Building, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills Join us for a free presentation on living wills and power of attorney presented in conjunction with the Allegheny County/Washington County Bar Association. For more information or to RSVP, please contact the Jefferson Hills district office at 412-653-1025.

• Coffee and Conversation Wednesday, February 22, at 6:30 p.m.

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February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL NEWS

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SOUTH HILLS FRIENDS OF THE MONTOUR TRAIL FEBRUARY MEETING

Washington Farm Bureau, Meadowcrest Helping With Food Drive

The South Hills Friends of the Montour Trail is a group of individuals interested in the maintenance, improvement and promotion of 11 miles of Montour Trail from Library (Milepost 35.3) to Clairton (Milepost 46.3).

The Friends meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the South Park Community room, located at 2675 Brownsville Road, South Park. The February 2012 meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 14, and the March meeting will be on Tuesday, Construction of the ramp from Triphammer Road to March 13. Individuals interested in the Piney Fork Bridge made significant progress in the Montour Trail are encouraged to 2011 with the placement and compaction of approxiattend. mately 5,375 cubic yards of fill, most of it from the Additional information concernremoval of the Arrowhead Trail Bebout Bridge in Peters Township and a portion of the adjacent ing the trail may be obtained on the embankment. Approximately 60% of the fill needed Montour Trail website at www.monto complete the ramp has now been placed. tourtrail.org. Activities concerning the entire Montour Trail and links to the sites of other western Pennsylvania trails are also posted on the website.

Meadowcrest Nursing Center in Bethel Park will be conducting a food drive for the Washington Farm Bureau. All food collected will be donated to the Washington County Food Bank. Donations of non-perishable foods will be accepted at Meadowcrest Nursing Center, 1200 Braun Rd., Bethel Park, from February 1 through March 31.

Used Flag Collections Attention, all residents of Finleyville and the Mon Valley: Boy Scout Troop 1452 is collecting any used, damaged and dirty American flags for a flag retirement ceremony in the spring. This is a good way to donate all your used flags. Councilman Steve Parrish will accept them at the Union Twp. Building on Finley-Elrama Road, or the Boy Scout Troop will collect them on Wednesday nights between 7:30 and 9 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Finleyville.

Monongahela Class of 1967 Plans Reunion The Monongahela Class of 1967 is planning its 45th year class reunion in September. We are inviting anyone who would like to help in the planning of this event. Anyone willing to help, please contact Kathy at 724-258-7399 or Patti at 724-782-0141.

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State Representative Saccone Hosts Emergency Responders Recognition Ceremony

Forward Township Volunteer Fire Department and State Representative Rick Saccone, Forward Township Fire Chief and Nominee Steven Pierce, and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Glenn Cannon.

Elrama Volunteer Fire Department and State Representative Rick Saccone, Elrama Fire Chief and Nominee Leonard Bailey, and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Glenn Cannon.

On Thursday, January 12, State Representative Rick Saccone hosted an Emergency Responders Recognition Ceremony at New Hope Assembly of God Church in Elizabeth Township. Many EMS, fire and police departments from the 39th district participated. During the ceremony, the church's worship band performed several musical numbers, and Glenn Cannon, Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, was the keynote speaker. Also, citations from the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives were presented to each of the nominees. Consol Energy sponsored dinner for the evening.

Monongahela Woman’s Club Plans Theme Party, Tea The Executive Board of the Monongahela Woman’s Club met at the home of President Marcia Barna on January 9. Upcoming projects were discussed, and the most immediate project on the horizon is the upcoming themed party. The party is scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 15 at the Monongahela Fire Hall. The festivities will begin at 1 p.m. and will include a Chinese auction and a light lunch. Some themes to be featured include Halloween, Cinco de Mayo, Easter, and Texas Hold-em. Tickets may be purchased from club members and will be sold for $20 each. Proceeds from the event will fund help to fund the club president’s project.

The Senior Girls Tea will take place early in May. This event features a luncheon, an opportunity for the club members to interact with the senior girls from Ringgold High School, and a guest speaker. This year’s speaker will be Kathleen Mancinelli. She is a retired teacher who has travelled extensively across the country. Mancinelli was very well received when she spoke previously at this event, and the Monongahela Woman’s Club is very pleased to have her return for this year’s tea.

The speaker for the February meeting will be Mark Francone from the Mon Valley Transit Authority. He is expected to speak about the authority, its transit program, and service in the Mid Mon Valley area. In keeping with efforts to address issues that concern members, Francone follows previous speakers from Pennsylvania American Water and Mon Valley Hospital.

The next meeting of the Monongahela Woman’s Club will be held at the Presbyterian Church on Monday, February 13 at 7 p.m. For further information regarding projects, programs, or membership in the Monongahela Woman’s Club, please call 724-258-4502.

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UT Resident Needs Yarn for Lapghans for Hospice Patients Lexi Herron, a longtime resident of Union Township and a retired teacher from Bethel Park Schools, now spends much of her time volunteering for the Fayette County Home Care & Hospice Center. Crocheting since eighth grade, Herron quickly volunteered her services to make lap blankets for patients at the request of her sister, Patty Leyshock, who is a dietician and diabetes educator at Uniontown Hospital. Last year, she made 38 “lapghans,” miniature Lexi Herron afghans for the lap, at lightning’s pace for patients at the hospice center. They and their families are really appreciative of the lapghans and many of the families keep them after they have lost their loved ones as a keepsake. Some of the hospice families have included the lapghans as part of the funeral experience.

Herron is in desperate need of yarn in order to continue this wonderful community service project. She would appreciate anyone who has leftover yarn from a project or would like to purchase yarn to make a donation to the cause. Contact her at Rodlexi@aol.com or 724-3488214, afternoons and evenings only, please. Thank you in advance for your support.

South Hills Coin Club Hosts Coin Show The South Hills Coin Club will hold their 52nd Anniversary Coin Show on February 4 and 5 at the Crowne Plaza - Pittsburgh South (across from South Hills Village). Admission is free. Door prizes will be given away hourly. For more information, please call 412-854-4022.

Needle and Yarn Craft Workshop Offered at Citizens Library The Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation is offering a Needle and Yarn Craft Workshop on Wednesday, February 8 at Citizens Library, 55 S. College St., Washington at 10 a.m. The project this month is an easy crocheted neck-warmer. You will need to bring one skein of yarn, color of your choice, and a size 6 crochet hook. Reservations are required by calling 724-228-6867. Fee is $1.

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2012 Shelter Rentals Available at Washington County Parks The Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation will begin accepting 2012 shelter reservations for Mingo Creek, Ten Mile Creek and Cross Creek County Parks beginning Monday, January 9. The Parks and Recreation office is located in room 101 of the Washington County Courthouse Square. Office hours are Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Beginning February l, reservations will also be accepted by phone with a credit card.

Reservations are on a first come - first served basis. Payment in full is due at the time of reservation. Permit applications are available at the following locations in Washington County: • Bentleyville Library • Brownsville Municipal Building • Burgettstown Borough Building • California Borough Building • Canonsburg Borough Building • Charleroi Chamber of Commerce • Curtis Pharmacy, Claysville

• • • • • • • •

Cross Creek Township Building Donora Borough Building Agway, Eighty - Four Giant Eagle, Finleyville Ten Mile Junction, Fredericktown McDonald Borough Building Monongahela Borough Building Peters Township Municipal Building • Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency Washington County shelter permit applications are available at the website www.co.washington.pa.us. Locate the menu on the left of the page, go to “Departments”, scroll to “Parks & Recreation” and click on “Downloads” and then “Shelter Permit Application” to print an application.

If you would like more information, please contact the Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation at 724-228-6867.

WSO to Celebrate “Heroes” Through Music Heroes are a part of our everyday life, but often their actions are taken for granted. The Washington Symphony Orchestra will offer a musical tribute to our everyday heroes at its February 11 “Heroes” concert at Trinity High School at 8 p.m.

WSO President Maryann Weinstein said, “Through the county’s 9-1-1 office, we have invited police, firemen, and EMS first responders from all townships and municipalities throughout Washington County to each select someone from their department to receive a pair of tickets to attend the February concert. It’s a small way to say ‘thanks’ to some of our everyday heroes.”

The WSO Facebook page is also encouraging people to write a few lines about their real life Ninth grader McKenna Barney heroes and why they are heroes. Several will be choof Venetia is the winner of sen at random to win a pair of tickets to celebrate at WSO's 2011 Young Artist the February 11 concert.

Competition and will receive a $500 prize.

Guest Conductor Dr. Marty Sharer, a California University of PA colleague of WSO Music Director and Conductor Dr. Yugo Ikach, will lead the orchestra in musical selections tied in to the hero’s theme. For instance, concert-goers will enjoy John Williams’ “Olympic Fanfare and Theme,” music from “The Magnificent Seven” of movie and television fame, as well as Beethoven’s “Eroica.”

“Heroes” will also feature ninth grader McKenna Barney from Venetia as the winner of WSO's 2011 Young Artist Competition held this past December. One of six student contestants in December’s competition, she will Dr. Marty Sharer will serve as guest receive a $500 prize for her piano solo perconductor at the February 11 WSO “Heroes” concert. formance of Mendelssohn’s “Capricio Brilliant, Opus 2.” She has already won several other music awards at her young age and has been studying piano since she was five years old. Barney is the daughter of Mary Fasnacht and Curt Barney. Her older sister, Jaden, won the Young Artist Competition two years ago.

Tickets for the concert are available at Citizens Library in Washington and all branches of Washington Financial bank, online at www.washsym.org, by calling 724-223-9796, or at the door.

Jefferson Hills Family Valentine's Day Dance Is February 11 The Jefferson Hills Recreation Board will host a Family Valentine's Day Dance on Saturday, February 11 from 6-9 p.m. at Gill Hall Volunteer Firehall, 1228 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills. Advance tickets can be purchased at Jefferson Hills Municipal Center, or contact Melissa Steffey at 412980-4616 or melsteffey@gmail.com. Tickets are $10/family or $15/family at the door. Please join us for a fun evening of dancing, contests, prizes and food. DJ Craig starts at 6 p.m.

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Welcome to John Pippy’s Senatorial District Finleyville, Nottingham and Union Twps.

Caught Up in the Politics of Redistricting

By Paul Chasko

You say you didn’t vote to have John Pippy (R) as your PA State Senator – no matter. Due to redistricting that was approved in mid-December, Finleyville, Nottingham and Union Townships will join Peters Township and others in Senator Pippy’s 37th PA Senatorial District.

This may not sit well with local residents and municipal leaders who elected Tim Solobay (D) and historically have presented a Democratic majority used to a more liberal dispensation of government funding. Not to say that Senator Pippy won’t represent us well, but it just won’t seem right to some folks that we didn’t pick our state senator with our votes. This will be a common reaction to the redistricting that was carried out by a senate committee that had a Republican majority of 7/4 and a house committee having a Republican majority of 15/10.

The State Legislative Reapportionment Committee approved the redrawn Senate and House Redistricting maps on December 12, and no further changes are expected – outside of any appeals to the PA Supreme Court.

On the congressional side of the reapportionment, other local impacts are being absorbed and in some cases contested. These are set by legislation – not

committee – and are more easily contested. For the first time in recent memory, Washington and Greene counties, which have so much in common, have been split into different congressional districts. Peters Township, which leads Washington County’s municipalities in population, was split into two PA congressional districts – districts 39 and 40. The Peters Township Council protested the change – evidently unsuccessfully. Statewide, similar reactions will be common to the reapportionment – local politicians don’t usually react well to local change that they haven’t initiated.

The reapportionment phenomenon occurs every 10 years after completion of a nation-wide census. The 2010 census triggered this look at reapportionment.

This is precisely why an accurate census was so important to all states, including PA. The PA census indicated a growth only 1/3 of the national average. The impact is that, on the national front, PA will lose a seat in the US House. The newly drawn 12th Congressional District will likely have US Representatives Jason Altmire and Mark Critz seeking votes for the same seat in the 2012 elections.

Folks in the affected boroughs, cities and townships may be looking at some unfamiliar names in the November elections.

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Let's Talk Real Estate

by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner

The Single Home-Buyer It is interesting to consider that the number of single home-buyers is virtually equal to the number of married couples purchasing homes in our area. Single people, whether divorced or widowed, young or older, have the same desire to build equity as couples do, and may discover that paying a mortgage can be less costly than rent.

They believe, and rightfully so, that they deserve that same sense of security and tax benefits that couples have historically enjoyed through home ownership.

Additionally, many first-time single buyers anticipate being able to possibly keep their first home as an investment property.

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A single home-buyer faces exactly the same financial qualifications as couples do, but generally speaking have only one income with which to qualify. Therefore, successful single buyers have learned to keep close tabs on their budgets and credit scores to make the loan process manageable.

Single home-buyers often select lower-maintenance homes to decrease the time and expertise devoted to maintenance. Many find condominiums and townhouses attractive because landscaping, snow removal, and possibly some of the exterior maintenance is covered by the homeowners association. Another consideration is the fact that these types of developments also provide a sense of personal safety in having neighbors close at hand.

Single-family homes are very attractive to single parents, but once again, maintenance is a real concern. Homes that require a lot of work simply place an added burden on such an already time-taxed individual.

We offer the following advice to single home-buyers: Think about your future. Do you look forward to marriage and a family, or are you at a stage in life where convenience is more important?

Consider your abilities. How much upkeep will be involved? Are you mechanically inclined, and do you have additional financial resources for repairs? If not, a “fixer upper” is not for you.

Comparison shop between types of lenders to locate a mortgage product and loan terms for which you not only qualify but that you can live with.

Realize that there is no such thing as a “perfect” home.

CENTURY 21® AGENTS are SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER. We’re Talking LIGHTNING FAST. Fast Like Find Your DREAM HOME – Blink – YOU’RE LIVING THERE. Okay, Maybe not that fast, but close.

OK, technology helps. We think our digital strategy is cool – we’ve even got an App for that. We create state-of-the-art technology so that you can spend your serious time building relationships. We like to think of it as high tech goes high touch.

Call

724-348-7470 to join today!

Buying any home typically involves some compromise between what you need and want and what you can practically afford.

Avoid over-buying! A large empty house that strains the budget and that you cannot afford to furnish is an emotional and financial drain. Being house poor is stressful.

Experts agree that your monthly payment should not exceed 28% of your pre-tax income.

Consider the potential resale value of your purchase. A two- or three-bedroom home is simply easier to sell than a one-bedroom home because of supply and demand.

Don't skimp on a home inspection! Instead of skipping an inspection entirely, or having a friend or relative look at the house, investing the $300 to $500 for a professional inspection can provide you a higher degree of confidence in your purchase and save you a lot of grief and money.

For many singles, and couples for that matter, the time is absolutely right for either that first-time purchase or a move-up opportunity. Interest rates at record lows, plenty of inventory to choose from and stable prices create an ideal buyer’s market. To get started, we invite you to contact any of our Century 21 Frontier Realty salespeople today.

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

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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New Eagle Borough Holds Reorganization Meeting

By Miranda Startare

New Eagle Borough Council held its annual reorganization meeting Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Several appointments were made and photos were taken by Grilli’s Studio of New Eagle.

Jack Fine was reappointed as president of the council.

New Eagle Borough Council members and borough Fine nominated Archie appointees pose for photo at the annual reorganization meeting Caseber to serve as vice presi- on January 3, 2012. Pictured left to right standing are: Cathy Pro (Tax Collector), Charles Wyandt, William Sherry, Brian dent, and Barry Williams was Tempest (Monongahela Police Chief), Barry Williams chosen president pro-temp. of (President Pro-Temp.), Timothy Berggren (Solicitor), and Linda council. New council memHall (Secretary/Treasurer/Administrator). Seated are: Jack bers were welcomed, includ- Fine (President and Constable), Glenn Petticord (Mayor), and ing Charles Wyandt and Archie Caseber (Vice President).

William Sherry. Paul Pro was also appointed as the borough fire chief design contest. Talyn Patton, a student at Elementary North and representative with the Mon Valley Ringgold (Gastonville) won the younger age cateSewage Authority.

Council held their first regular meeting gory. Ringgold High School student of the year following the reorganization Hayle Fosbrink won the older category. during which time two Ringgold stu- Both girls’ drawings are printed on Tdents were awarded for winning New shirts currently available for purchase at Eagle’s Centennial Celebration t-shirt the New Eagle Municipal Building on

Ringgold Elementary North student Talyn Patton is pictured receiving an award for a T-shirt design contest held in preparation for the 2012 New Eagle Centennial Celebration.

Ringgold High School student Hayle Fosbrink is pictured receiving an award for a T-shirt design contest held in preparation for the 2012 New Eagle Centennial Celebration.

Main Street. Centennial water bottles, mugs, and other merchandise is also available.

The soon-to-expire lease for the New Eagle Post Office was also addressed at the meeting. The owner of the building, Larry Kumpf, is currently in negotiations with the U.S. Postal Service trying to renew the lease, which is set to expire March 31. There are no plans currently

to close the post office and no one has contacted the borough concerning any closure.

The next regular meeting for New Eagle Council will be held Tuesday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRILLI’S STUDIO OF NEW EAGLE

NEED A NEW ROOF?

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

SRPD Has Busy Month Policing UT Lack of Prior Local Patrol Could be at Fault

By Paul Chasko

The Southwest Regional Police Department (SRPD) reported at the January 23 Union Township Board meeting that they’d made nine drug arrests in their first three weeks of patrolling in UT. SRPD Officer Steve Schwartz reported on the drug arrests, most of which took place in the UT Recreation Park on Brownsville Road. The park is mostly vacant for the winter months, and nearby residents had reported seeing suspicious vehicles there. Officer Schwartz reported that the majority of the individuals arrested were not residents of UT. He had been able to ascertain that drug dealers widely consider UT to be a reasonably safe place to conduct their illegal business (due to lack of local police for several years). As a result, the SRPD will continue to concentrate their efforts on this drug problem. Officer Schwartz also reported a DUI arrest, investigations into a death, a drug overdose, thefts from vehicles parked in the Route 88 “Park n Ride” and a number of traffic citations. He also reported that sections of roads in the township where vehicular speeding has been a problem will be set up for VASCAR speeding surveillance.

In related police business, SRPD Board Member Joseph DeBlassio notified the UT Board that because of bandwidth changes being made by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), SRPD must purchase new communications equipment to be used exclusively in UT. He emphasized that UT is not obligated by contract to purchase three needed transmitter/ receivers ($1,405 total), but if they choose to they would remain the property of UT. The Board agreed to ask our state representatives if any funding was available to purchase the hardware. All “first responders” are required to make these equipment upgrades.

A continuance of the January 9 workshop meeting was held prior to the

January 23 regular meeting with the road crew foremen and members of the road crew present.

Ideas were exchanged related to establishing a more formal road crew operation.

Recommended changes include more detailed record-keeping of materials and labor expended for each task, prioritizations of road crew projects, and scheduled reporting to the board by the road crew foreman. The need for a fifth road crew employee and a new chipper ($40,000) were also discussed.

The status of the DEP Act 537 plan (sewage) was discussed at the January 23 regular meeting. It was stated that the DEP doesn’t want another sewage plant emptying into Peters Creek, which seemingly quells any plans that Peters Creek Sanitary Authority (PCSA) and/or Jefferson Hills Borough had to build sewage plants. As UT cannot assume any additional debt service, it can’t even consider a sewage plant.

An expansion of the Clairton plant will likely be the DEP’s final direction. The UT Board authorized the engineer to prepare a draft of a letter to the DEP stating that they are in opposition of any new plant that would ultimately cause higher rates to UT residents.

The engineer said that the most costeffective course for UT is to stay with the West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority and Clairton via the PCSA. After a brief closed executive session to discuss litigation, the board approved a motion to write two checks ($500 each) to a professional appraiser to appraise the Parish property that has been at the center of the Finleyville Airport controversy for about 20 years (trees in the flight path). In a related matter, an appeal

by Mary Parish to the UT Zoning/Hearing Board regarding a violation notice of the Airport Hazards Zoning Ordinance (2008-11) was placed on hold until the attorneys involved determine whether a hearing is warranted in light of other actions underway.

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

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Elizabeth Borough Council Bids Farewell to Margaret Fleischauer

By Alice Harris

The December 27 Elizabeth Borough Council meeting opened with Guest Mary Black inquiring the status of unkempt properties surrounding her home. Attorney Matt Racunas, representing Solicitor McGrail’s office, stated they are still trying to figure ownership and responsibility. Solicitor McGrail will phone her with an update in the upcoming week.

Scout Dylan Donnelly was awarded a Letter of Commendation for his recent Eagle Scout Project work at Duke Park.

Elizabeth Police Officers John Snelson and Joe Kozarian were commended for apprehending the actor who attempted to rob the Elizabeth Dollar General on December 15.

Monica Douglas has been elected Vice President of Twin Rivers Council of Governments for 2012.

Complaints were issued by residents on Walnut St. for trash on the streets, both blown and spilled in pick-up, and for a non-paying resident placing his trash with a paid resident for pick up.

Nickolich Sanitation will be contacted to clean up the trash. For those who do not pay their bill and for trash on the streets, citations will go out in January. Due to a 10% increase, cost for a garbage sticker will be $380 for 2012.

Residents have been inquiring about when 5th Street will be paved.

Due to a bare-bones budget, there will be no tax increase for Elizabeth residents for 2012. A balanced budget of $724,117 was set for 2012.

Residents near the CSX tracks have been experiencing stronger than normal vibration from passing trains. Mayor Householder inquired about a yield and stop sign both on the same pole. Robin Miller met with the new trainmaster, who will be scheduling a meeting with fire, police, and borough personnel to make sure the area is safe.

An inquiry was made on the warranty for potholes. It is believed the warranty is for two years but will be checked further.

An application for a grant to repave Grant St. has been submitted.

Scheduling for the Wylie baseball field will be held in late February. Advertising

Councilwoman Robin Miller presents Eagle Scout Dylan Donnelly with a Letter of Commendation for his Eagle Scout Project work at Duke Park.

Outgoing Councilwoman Margaret Fleischauer was presented with a gift from Council in gratitude for her Council service to Elizabeth Borough.

signage at the field also will be discussed at this time.

A motion to stop the contracts for cell phone providers for borough employees was approved.

Additional power for Plum Street will be provided via a meter accessed from the basement of the Steven Bayard Masonic Lodge. Empty storefronts on Plum Street are being creatively marketed in hopes for new tenants.

A grant for storm water separation at Bayard Street that will go under the CSX railroad tracks has been awarded. The Sewage Authority will match the grant for this project.

An announcement in an Elizabeth church bulletin stated the borough does not allow the Salvation Army to collect in town, which is not true. A letter will be written to the Salvation Army Corporate Offices stating they are welcome to collect in Elizabeth.

Council extended appreciation to outgoing Council member Margaret Fleischauer for her service to Elizabeth Borough, and also congratulated her on her new position as President of Mon Valley Arts.

PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Eagle Scout Anthony Donatelli Proclaimed at January South Park Board of Supervisors Meeting

By Andrea Earnest

A Presentation of Proclamation was presented to Eagle Scout Anthony Donatelli for becoming an Eagle Scout at the January meeting of the South Park Board of Supervisors Meeting. To achieve this status, Donatelli constructed a fire pit and benches at Windover Hills United Methodist Church. All of the South Park Supervisors proudly congratulated him.

Al Banscott of Bethel Park had hoped to construct a business on property he owns on Piney Fork Road. However, his plans have not worked out. He had asked for help from the township in receiving an exemption for the tax on the property but was informed that he would have to go to the county for an appeal. It was suggested that he have the property appraised or talk to Dave Oyler from the Montour Trail about the property owners adjacent to the property to see if they have any interest in it.

The owner of the property at 920 Cochrans Mills Ext. asked for an exten-

Chairman Buchewicz presented the Proclamation to Eagle Scout Anthony Donatelli.

sion on work to be done on his property to avoid the property being declared a public nuisance. A special meeting was held before the Board of Supervisors Meeting on this action, but the owner had not been able to get to the meeting.

He asked for an extension into September, as there is a lot of work to be done and he is doing it himself.

Chairman David Buchewicz said that they would handle the action later at the meeting at it was an agenda item.

Paul J. Gitnik of Keevican Weiss

Banerle & Hirsch L.L.C. was appointed Temporary Solicitor for the township for the year 2012.

Action was taken on the public nuisance at 3897 Brownsville Road. All the supervisors have viewed the property and were satisfied with the work that has been done. The public nuisance was rejected. The property at 920 Cochrans Mills Ext. was discussed. None of the supervisors were willing to grant the owner an extension into the fall of 2012.

It was decided to grant a 60-day extension. At that time, if improvements are made the Board will consider granting another extension.

Action was taken to authorize the preparation and advertisement of bids for the 2012 Roads Program, establishing the bid opening for Tuesday, March 6, at 10 a.m. Action was also taken to authorize the preparation and advertisement of bids for the 2012 Township-Wide Sanitary Sewer Program, establishing the bid opening for Tuesday, March 6, at 11 a.m. Action on these bids will be taken at

the regular meeting on Monday, March 12, 2012.

Other actions that were taken at the meeting are available at the township office.

Supervisor Edward Snee said that he had been contacted by residents about large tree branches on wires. He asked that anyone who sees these branches please call the township. The main concern is that heavy snow will freeze the branches, which will then become heavier and break power lines, leading to power outages. He has also received calls about leaves clogging up catch basins and asked that residents also contact the township about this.

Chairman Buchewicz asked that anyone who would like to get involved with the Friends of South Park let them know.

They meet the third Wednesday of the month at the Buffalo Inn. The purpose is to ensure that the managers and administrators downtown understand the problems in the park and what improvements can be made.

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2012 Budget Reopened at Jefferson Hills Borough Council Meeting

By Jim Caldwell

The final item on the January 9 regular Jefferson Hills Council Meeting was a vote to reopen the Borough’s 2012 budget, which had already been approved in December. Although President Chris King leaned toward not reopening, he expressed that he would side with the will of all the members.

The motion passed unanimously, after several members discovered two oversight numbers missing in the previously passed budget. There was the sum of $322,000 in retroactive pay for the 2010-11 local union police contract not accounted for in the document as well as another $540,000 from the contingency fund used to balance the budget.

Moreover, there was a $100,000 deficit for 2011 due to settlement of a 10-year lawsuit regarding sewer sheds.

Concerning this, Councilman Tracey Khalil explained that it was “an unplanned budgetary expense.”

Looking to correct the missed items and adopt a new budget within the next 30 days, he said “We just want to run (the borough) like a business, and that’s what we’ll do.”

Before this motion passed to re-examine the budget, Council had already voted six to one to adopt the fixed salaries, compensation and wages to Borough employees for 2012 as well as amend certain fees. In both cases, Councilman James Weber was the dissenting voice.

Pennsylvania Municipal Service Company was designated to collect the delinquent taxes for 2011 and prior years. A schedule of reasonable costs in connection with this service was approved as authorized by Act 511 and amended by Act 7 in 2007.

The Mastroianni Site Plan received approval for land development. The Clairton Sewershed Act 537 was adopted. And Council authorized proposing an ordinance to update the Borough Sanitary sewer connection fee.

Dave Crawford was appointed by Council as the representative to the SHACOG Franchising Authority Board and the Joint Rate Review Board.

Councilman Scott Albrecht was appointed the alternate representative.

In a final appointment of the night, David Raff was reappointed to the Library Board of Directors until 2014.

Buono Brothers Memorials and Friends Donate Engraved Stone to Elizabeth Police Department Buono Brothers Memorials of Dravosburg and Friends of Elizabeth Borough Volunteer Fire and Police departments presented the Elizabeth Borough Police Department with a stone engraved with its emblem, the Police Officer’s Prayer, and an eternal light. The Prayer, which The new stone in front of the Elizabeth Police reads: “Lord, I ask for courage. Courage Department is engraved with its emblem, the to face and Conquer my own fears.

Police Officer’s Prayer, and an eternal light.

Courage to take me where others will not go. I ask for Strength of body to protect others and strength of spirit to lead others. I ask for dedication. Dedication to my job, to do it well. Dedication to my community to keep it safe. Give me Lord, concern for others who trust me. And compassion for those who need me. And please Lord through it all .. Be at my side ...” (Author Unknown) Buono Brothers Manager Tracy Hrehocik said the Friends came to her wanting to do something nice for someone who had recently suffered a loss, and Buono Brothers wanted to do something in return for Elizabeth while honoring police and firemen everywhere who risk their lives for others daily. A similar stone was presented to the Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Company, which will be unveiled late in the year. The Elizabeth Police stone stands at the entrance to the Elizabeth Borough Police Department. PHOTO: ALICE HARRIS

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

Pleasant Hills Council Welcomes Three New Members

By Ken Askew

The three new Pleasant Hills Councilmen spent the day of January 16 touring and learning about the Borough’s infrastructure, then attended their first Council meeting that evening. Three councilpersons’ terms of office expired in December 2011 (Jan Nevling, James Funkhouser, and Greg Parks) and were replaced by Joe Esper, Dan Soltesz, and Greg Smith at the January meeting. Bill Trimbath is Jan Nevling’s successor as council president.

Solicitor Fred Jug reported on a draft Facility Encroachment Agreement that council is contemplating with the CSX railroad. The agreement will require Pleasant Hills to pay CSX $4K per year to install and utilize a sanitary sewer pipeline under the railroad tracks near the Curry Hollow Road Bridge. Terms of the agreement regarding liability insurance are under scrutiny. Because PennDOT is planning to repair/replace the bridge in the near future, the two construction plans must be coordinated.

A performance bond of $70K for the Crown Center development will be reduced to $-0- subject to the developer instead providing a required 18month maintenance bond in the amount of $21K (15% of the cost of the work).

Engineer Ned Mitrovich discussed the likelihood that the federal government is formulating new standards for future highway signage, which will be passed down to states then further imposed on local municipalities. The

new requirements may include better retro-reflectivity of signs (e.g., STOP, speed limit, street name, school signs), break-away design of poles in case of impact accident, and larger font size of the characters. New STOP signs and poles are estimated to cost about $100 and $25, respectively. Because Pleasant Hills has 253 STOP signs in the borough, just that category alone could cost over $30K plus installation labor.

Consequently, council may consider setting up a separate reserve fund to pay for these anticipated expenses.

To date, no one has offered to serve as chairperson for the annual Community Day event in August, so planning is already behind schedule, which places the event itself in jeopardy. An additional 12-14 volunteers are needed to serve on the committee.

The fire department received only one bid to perform necessary body work and other repairs on a fire truck; the work will be done in Missouri.

William Plunkett of the Baldwin EMS (covers Pleasant Hills, Baldwin, West Mifflin, and Whitaker) reported they responded to 8,712 calls in 2011. The least number of calls in December were logged on the 26th. The organization has just received two video laryngoscopes, which provide a view of the airway for placement of intubation equipment; it is expected to be used 100 times next year. They received a letter from the family of an elderly woman who needed their services twice recently, in which they highly praised Paramedic Travis Grosch for his “kindness and compassion” in caring for the woman.

West Elizabeth Town Council Swears in Re-Elected Members At the January West Elizabeth Town Council meeting, the new council members were sworn in by Magistrate Beth Scagline Mills. Those included were Vice President Frank Magill, Steve Hallam, Darryl Celestino and Susan Pershing. Each member will serve two years on the town council.

Also discussed at the meeting were plans for building a township website for the community to post community events, notices for due garbage bills and law enforcement and council news.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

Police News Dominates Monongahela City Council Meeting

By Ken Askew

National news events have influenced the thinking of a resident of New Eagle, who spoke at the Monongahela Council meeting on January 11, 2012. Referring to the increased incidence of violence against police officers throughout the country, he urged Council to create a Citizens’ Review Board, wherein citizens could air their complaints about whatever is bothering them, before something escalates into a regrettable situation.

To the contrary, instead of speaking about the public’s treatment of law enforcement, a resident of Donora attended to speak about law enforcement’s treatment of the public. He admitted to being a relative of two individuals who have been recently dismissed from the Monongahela Police Department.

Since then, he has received two traffic citations, and his 70-year-old brother was arrested for disorderly conduct. He felt that his family has now been singled-out for harrassment by the police. Neither brother had ever been in trouble prior to their relatives’ dismissal. Police Chief Brian Tempest responded that the accuser demanded that a citation be “fixed”, which he refused to do, and explained that an appeal of the citation could be made to the Magistrate.

A Monongahela resident complained that a house is undergoing a major renovation in the 500 block of Park Avenue, and the owners are piling up the gutted material on their steps and on the lawn, creating an eyesore. The

matter will be referred to the Code Enforcement Officer for resolution.

Chief Tempest reported that an individual has been arrested, who is the likely culprit in recent thefts from unlocked vehicles. The 18-year-old’s name was found on a pawn shop list where he sold a stolen GPS device; his hearing will be held in two weeks.

Council went on record as being in favor of re-opening the Monongahela Elementary School. In an unrelated action, a new recycling bin has been installed at this location.

Progress continues at the renovation of the Aquatorium. Installation of new bleachers is complete, and security cameras will be affixed soon.

Donations will be accepted for the installation of commemorative benches in public places throughout Monongahela, such as the one currently in front of the fire station.

The new member of Council, Bill Hess (replacing Daryl Miller) intends to pursue grant funding for a new emergency siren system, which was lost when the former City Hall was torn down.

Monongahela City Council has made its annual request to Washington County for Community Development Block Grant funds for the following: $ 50K Home Rehabilitation $ 30K Code Enforcement Demolition $100K Street Reconstruction $ 20K Sewage Project $ 75K Gazebo Roof $ 25K Tennis Court Resurfacing $ 25.3K City Garage $325.3K TOTAL

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Finleyville Council Reorganizes for 2012

By Paul Chasko

The Finleyville Council met on January 2 and held their reorganization meeting on the same evening along with a regular business meeting as was advertised. No tax hikes will be made in the borough, and Tim Kegel remains president of the council. John Sechrist was elected to serve as council vice president. The council also voted to retain Sandy Mayak as secretary/treasurer and Tim Berggren as council solicitor. The borough will continue to contract with the Monongahela Police for local police protection. Residents were reminded to use 911 for emergency police calls and to inform the 911 responders that they reside in Finleyville.

Mayor Kegel, Jessie Seliga and Irene Allridge will continue to hold the council seats that were uncontested in the last election. In the last election, Sechrist won the four-year seat formerly held by Mary Lytle; council will need to appoint someone to the seat vacated by Sechrist until the next election. The council will be looking for a Finleyville resident to fill the empty seat on council. Mayor Kutsek mentioned that several individuals are in consideration. As required by law,

the regular meeting day for 2012 was announced to be the first Wednesday of each month.

In the regular meeting, Mayor Kutsek asked that letters be sent to all businesses in the borough carrying notifications of the $300 business tax owed by every business operating in Finleyville. He also mentioned that it’s an obligation of landlords to notify the council when a new business is moving onto their premises.

According to the mayor, there are 70 taxable businesses in the borough.

Council’s goal is to have the first floor of the renovated borough building also serve as the Finleyville Historical Center. Len Maracinni was placed in charge of all historical photos being collected by council. Glassenclosed cases are being acquired to house and protect the photos.

According to Mayor Kutsek, Maracinni will lead maintenance of the Finleyville Historical Center.

The secretary/treasurer will be conducting borough business from the renovated borough building on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3 pm beginning in January. Use of the office had been delayed by the need for new electrical, phone and computer lines running to the business office.

Monongahela Police Release Annual Crime Statistics Report for 2011

By Ken Askew

Publish your news for FREE! PRESS RELEASES, EVENTS, HAPPENINGS, ORGANIZATION NEWS OR BUSINESS NEWS. Mail: Union-Finley Messenger, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone or Fax: • 412.249.8177 • Email: news@unionfinley.com

The Monongahela Police Department reported that 60,801 miles were logged on their five police cruisers during 2011. Within their jurisdiction of Monongahela, New Eagle, and Finleyville combined, there were 4,667 calls made to the police, resulting in 51 categories of 4,070 offenses.

Only one criminal arrest was made in each of the following categories: Criminal Attempt, Motor Vehicle Theft, Bad Checks, Aggravated Indecent Assault, Institutional Vandalism, Statutory Sexual Assault, Retaliation Against Witness, and Deceptive Business Practices.

Visit our website at www.unionfinley.com for more Monongahela Crime Statistics for 2011.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Nottingham Board of Supervisors Supports Peters Creek Sanitary Authority Improvements

By J.R. Brower

Nottingham Township has committed itself to plans by the Peters Creek Sanitary Authority (PCSA) to improve their facilities.

By unanimous approval at their January 16 meeting, the board approved a resolution to adopt the Act 537 Plan Supplement that provides for an official Sewage Facilities Plan to address sewage services, water contamination and environmental health hazards. Peters Creek Sanitary Authority (PCSA) currently provides services for Nottingham Township, Union Township, Finleyville Borough, southeastern Peters Township and several municipalities in Allegheny County.

PCSA’s main objective is to get started on plans for their new multi-million dollar sewage treatment plant that may be constructed in northern Union Township. If the site gets the go-ahead from Union Township and the state Department of Environmental Protection, it most likely will be built on Snee Road, upstream from the confluence of Piney Fork Run and Peters Creek according to a PCSA contact.

The state DEP requested that Peters Creek Sanitary Authority address issues concerning “headwaters discharge,” which refer to improvements in sewage treatment necessary to modernize facilities, taking into account new residential development and gas drilling activities as well as “environmental justice,” which refers to tradeoffs with the Clairton Municipal Authority, who recently separated

Earth tones continue the theme of the exterior with brown, orange and red mixed bricks surrounding light tan textured block.

itself entirely from the city of Clairton.

Communities downstream from PCSA’s proposed treatment plant in Union Township will, in the future, have to choose between using Clairton Municipal Authority sewage facilities or establishing their own sanitary authorities. Completion of PCSA’s proposed treatment plant in Union probably won’t happen for at least five years, and Nottingham Board of Supervisors Chairman Peter Marcoline looks forward to the improvements that he feels will make the whole system “more cost effective”.

In other business, the Nottingham Supervisors: Held a public hearing and adopted Amendment G to Ordinance 50 in regard to application procedures for conditional use applications. The amendment lessens the cost to applicants by reducing the number of public hearings from two to one. The Planning Commission would still make recommendations. Applicants

Sneak Previews of the New Nottingham Municipal Building Photos courtesy of Doug King

requiring variances, such as home-based businesses, would go through this streamlined amendment process.

Extended the solid waste collection and Sharp contrasts highlight the architectural design transportation agreement of the interior reception area. for one year with Waste Management, which expires on March to attend the Pennsylvania Recreation 31. The rate is $13.91 per home per and Park Society Conference that will be held March 17-21 at Seven Springs. month.

Approved a request by Jim Patterson Authorized the advertisement for a joint meeting of the Planning to use Nottingham Township facilities Commission and the Agricultural on February 15. Patterson coordinates Security Area Advisory Committee on a landowners group from Nottingham February 13. The purpose of the meet- and Somerset townships that discusses ing is to review modifications to the oil and gas issues.

Informed meeting attendees that existing agricultural security area.

Approved a request by Chip Zelch construction of the new municipal and Ed Nemec of the Recreation Board building is now completed.

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February 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGERâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

7jh^cZhh BZgX]Vci CZlh Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Business & Merchant News Section. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177

Washington Community Federal Credit Union Opens Branch in Canonsburg

Ribbon cutters at Washington Community Federal Credit Union included Canonsburg Chamber of Commerce President Karen Imperatore-Kovac, State Senator Tim Solobay, WCFCU CEO Ed Orisko, WCFCU Board President Chuck Rogers, Canonsburg Mayor David Rhome and State Representative Brandon Neuman.

By J.R. Brower

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce invited members and their guests to attend a ribbon cutting at Washington Community Federal Credit Unionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new office in Canonsburg on January 19. Over 40 employees and guests enjoyed appetizers and cocktails, courtesy of the newest of its three offices at 151 East Pike Street. The main office is located at 45 Griffith Avenue, Washington, and the other is located at 440 Racetrack Road, Meadow Lands.

The conveniently located Canonsburg branch offers membership to the not-forprofit financial organization for the unbelievable low fee of just $5. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Members are essentially investors in our credit union,â&#x20AC;? said Chris George, who is compliance and IT director. He explained that employees of the Washington Steel Corporation founded WCFCU in 1971. Currently, there are over 10,000 members, who hold over $80 million in assets. The financial group is strongly capitalized, and members are insured up to $250,000.

Canonsburg Mayor David Rhome, Police Chief R.T. Bell and other borough officials attended the hospitable ribbon cutting. Newly elected County Commissioner Harlan Shober was there as well with other state legislature members. WCFCU CEO Ed Orisko cordially greeted guests and addressed the attendees following his introduction by Branch Manager Donna Astuto and Marketing Director Amanda Grolemund.

The Canonsburg branch phone is 724-916-0115, and prospective members can apply online at www.WashingtonCommunityFCU.com.

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

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Monongahela Shopping is Now “Twice as Nice” Thanks to New Business

Lakeside Primary Care L Lake

Mary Parks Lamb, M.D. Participating in the ribbon-cutting were (left to right): Owner Elayne Shanahan, her friend Aimee Hallas, and Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce representatives Kimberly Ruffcorn of First Federal Savings, Tanya Chaney of Chaney’s Natural Wellness, Delmar Zenobi of Delmar Signs, and two friendly giraffes.

Kristen Scalise Romesburg, D.O.

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By Ken Askew

If you’re in the mood to peruse a great eclectic collection of home furniture, furniture accessories, and room accent pieces, then “Twice as Nice” is your next stop.

Located in downtown Monongahela, this store has consignments, resale items, and antiques. They also buy gold and silver.

Twice as Nice opened its door on November 18, 2011, in the former Dierken’s Pharmacy location. The store owners are George Hare and Elayne Shanahan; she has 40 years of antiquing and retail experience. Prior to opening the store, Elayne sold similar items on eBay. Their objective is to provide total customer service--the old-fashioned way.

Inventory comes from upscale resale boutique shops in Manhattan, the Fashion Hunters (on the Bravo TV channel), and local sources. Additionally, Mr. Hare’s other occupation as a bridge builder affords him opportunities for interstate purchases. His hobby is refurbishing antique cars and trucks.

Classes are planned in jewelry making and repair, stained glass art, furniture refinishing, and craft making.

Prices for the wide array of treasures range from $.50 to $2K. Gift certificates are available. Acceptable payment methods are cash, check, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover.

Twice as Nice is open Tuesday thru Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Their address is 246 West Main Street, Monongahela, PA 15063. They can be contacted at 724-292-8000, or by e-mail at twiceasniceconsignment@hotmail.com.

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

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1001 Waterdam Plaza McMurray, PA

724.969.1001 Please call or visit our website for more information

www.lakesideprimarycare.net

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Vinny’s Pizza Opens Its Ovens in Clairton

By Mike Ference

There’s a new pizza joint in town, and it’s not for wimps who like a delicate crust.

“At Vinny’s Pizza,” says Jake Holmes, shop manager.

“We make a thicker crust and cover it with our homemade garlic butter, and it’s been a big hit.”

Vinny’s, located at 448 St. Clair Avenue, Clairton, has been open since November 6 and the locals are already regulars. “We sell pizza slices all day for a buck. The school kids love them, and so do the delivery guys and contractors,” says Holmes.

But a great pizza shop is not judged on pizza alone. “Our Philly cheese steaks and Italian hoagies do a nice job of bringing customers back week after week,” adds Holmes. Vinny’s Pizza offers all the favorite toppings, including Capicola and sun-dried tomatoes. Customers can choose from a traditional, gourmet, BBQ, spinach and chicken, chicken bacon and ranch, Hawaiian, and steak pizzas. Steak, grilled chicken, and house salads are always fresh and available for pickup or delivery. Sides include onion rings, chicken tenderloins, stuffed jalapeno peppers, breaded mushrooms, and cheese sticks. Chicken wings come doused with seasoned salt or homemade sauces, including BBQ (regular, honey, or spicy), hot sauce, or spicy mustard, and are even served Thai style.

Holmes is already planning on expanding the menu. “As far as business, so far, so good. We look forward to being here a long time,” he said. Vinny’s Pizza is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm and is closed on Sundays. Vinny’s offers free delivery to surrounding areas. To order, call 412-945-3262.

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

Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce

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McFeed-N-Seed: New Owners, Same Trusted Service

By Heather Kelley-Latorre

If you live in Finleyville, or drive through Finleyville via Route 88, you know where the McFeed-n-Seed Store is right across the tracks.

The store has recently had a change in hands, but the change has been subtle. Bill and Jaime Cameron of Finleyville purchased the business in September, but much remains the same.

The shop itself is well organized and clean.

They have in stock numerous quality brands of feed for most livestock and pets: chickens, “The Bills” of McFeed-n-Seed: sheep, horse, rabbit, pigs, cats and dogs.

Employee Bill Jarosz, and Owner “Birders” can still find select feed blends as Bill Cameron with his well as mix their own blend from the extensive two-year-old son, Billy Jr. wild and exotic bird seed selection: economy and premium blends, safflower, black oil sunflower, and thistle. Also remaining steadfast is knowledgeable employee Bill Jarosz, as the Camerons believe Jarosz is a “staple” at McFeed-n-Seed. Always “insightful,” they could not have the store without him. As animal lovers, the Camerons also still have the two resident shop cats. A bit skittish, but no doubt they keep the place well “moused” when no one is there.

Bill Cameron, a true outdoorsman and fishermen, fits this business well. The Camerons say they “have so many things we want to do,” Billy Jr. helps out with the family or improve on, at the shop. One new service business. As a family-oriented business, they offer is a delivery option. Bill is currently the Camerons say McFeed-n-Seed is delivering cord wood, and feed can be deliv“big on supporting our community ered monthly or weekly. Their goal is to and small business owners.” remain competitive with big box stores, so they’ve also expanded their selection of higher quality domestic and farm feed.

Customers can also place large and specialty orders with discounts on tonnage.

Check out their selection or schedule delivery by calling (724) 348-9203. Store hours are Monday thru Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday 9 am–5 pm. Follow them on facebook under “McFeed-n-Seed.”

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U.S. Chamber of Commerce Presents “State of American Business”

Bentleyville Business Offers Assistance to Local Residents with Real Estate Problems

The Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce February luncheon will feature Ben Taylor, Great Lakes Regional Office for Congressional and Public Affairs of the United States Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, February 14 from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Willow Room in Rostraver Township.

Ben Taylor The Charleroi Board of Trade, organized in 1902, is one of the charter members of the national chamber. The Board of Trade eventually evolved into the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the Chamber organization has maintained its membership with the US Chamber for 100 consecutive years. It is one of the original 200 founding members, including the Reading and Philadelphia chambers of commerce.

Attendees can make reservations at a cost of $15/person and may register by calling the Mon Valley Regional Chamber office at 724-483-3507 or by downloading a registration form at www.mvrchamber.org, which can be faxed or mailed.

A few years back when Ken George, who resides in Bentleyville, found himself out of work and looking for a job, he started reading financial books while trying to improve his situation. Ken, along with his wife, Carmina, a NICU nurse, founded Quaker State Properties, LLC in 2009 to help clients with real estate problems that seem to be so prevalent everywhere today. The team works in the local areas to help support the betterment of the surrounding communities. Quaker State Properties seeks to purchase foreclosures, estates needing liquidation, apartment buildings and properties that have fallen into disrepair. They then fix them up to be attractive again and resell or rent them, bringing pride to the community. They offer many options from cash purchases to programs that help landlords to retire. As the business grows by local demand, it also is working to build Acquire Realty to offer more services for their customers, which they hope to open soon.

Ken and Carmina George of Bentleyville While continuing to work their day jobs and raise their sons, have run Quaker State Properties LLC since 2009. the Georges are working hard as young entrepreneurs while trying to help people. Just last year, they helped Bentleyville Council recognize the need to hire South West Regional Police Department. Anyone needing help with any property situation or to discuss options can reach Ken or Carmina via the Quaker State Properties website (http://www.quakerstateproperties.com) or by phone at 724-239-3000 or 724986-3728.

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

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER It all starts with newspapers. www.newspaperlinks.com THIS MESSAGE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THIS NEWSPAPER AND THE NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA® The Walt Disney Company is committed to Reading Together. For more information, log on to www.disneyhand.com/readingtogether

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PSYCHIATRIST FEATURED IN MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INNOVATIONS LECTURE SERIES

DIABETIC EDUCATION CLASSES AT THE CANONSBURG GENERAL HOSPITAL

Cold temperatures and less daylight can definitely make us grumpy about winter, but for many, being down or feeling blue every fall and winter could be more than simple discontentment with the climate.

Join Monongahela Valley Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new psychiatrist Amanda M. Rush, M.D., when she discusses depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) at MVHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free community Innovations in Medicine lecture series in February and March. Innovations features MVH physicians presenting free seminars to educate our residents about important health care issues. Dr. Rush will discuss Dr. Amanda M. Rush SAD on Thursday, February 9, at the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center. She will repeat this Innovations presentation on Thursday, March 1, at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX at WillowPointe Plaza on Route 51 in Rostraver. Both Innovations programs are free and begin at 6 p.m.; parking is also free and light refreshments will be served. Reservations are required by calling 724-258-1333.

Canonsburg General Hospital will offer Diabetic Education Classes at the Outpatient Care Center in Peters Township from 1 - 2:30 p.m. during the month of February as follows: February 7 - Introduction to Diabetes/Monitoring and Managing Your Diabetes February 14 - Diet Management of Diabetes/Benefits of Exercise February 21- Medications of Diabetes/Insulin Pumps February 28 - Preventing Eye Complications/Foot Care The purposes of these classes are to bring together people who are coping with diabetes and to share information. They are free of charge and open to diabetics and their families. The outpatient center is located at 160 Gallery Drive, Washington. Registration is limited, so please call 877-284-2000 to reserve you seat.

Canonsburg General Hospital will offer a Pediatric Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) with Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training class on Thursday, February 2, from 6 - 9 p.m., in the McNary Conference Center.

Instructors for this class are certified by the American Heart Association.

Attendees will learn infant and child CPR, AED training and methods to relieve choking. Infant safety in the home also will be discussed. Participants will receive a two-year certification after successful course completion.

Registration fee is $25. Class size is limited, and pre-registration is required. To register, call toll free at 1-877-284-2000.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Health Section. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177

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CANONSBURG GENERAL HOSPITAL OFFERS PEDIATRIC CPR WITH AED TRAINING CLASS

Blurred Vision?

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412-466-6800

Dr. Thomas Findlan

www.pitteye2020.com

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

HEALTH

Snap Fitness South Park Introduces $10,000 Lose Weight Challenge Now that New Year’s has come and gone, the motivation to stick with those resolutions may be fading. Snap Fitness in South Park is helping members stay on track and lose those unwanted holiday pounds with an 8-week $10,000 Lose Weight, Feel Great Challenge. To help members get started on their path to better results, the club is also offering a limited time first-month-free joining offer.

“This can be the most frustrating time of year to reach your fitness goals,” said Barbara Devine, Manager of Snap Fitness in South Park. “The initial excitement from New Year’s has worn off, and now the key is finding the motivation to stick with it. We make it easier by offering a nearby club that’s open 24/7 so you can work out on your schedule, and our month-to-month memberships remove a lot of hesitation. Plus, participation in our $10,000 Lose Weight Challenge is free for all Snap Fitness members. Last year, the average member lost seven pounds and found the experience to be fun and rewarding.

The competition kicks off March 1 and runs through April 30. It includes regular private weigh-ins, tips and weekly goals, personal trainers available to answer your questions, free online meal planning and local and national prizes for the biggest losers. Plus, not matter how much you lose, you could win $250 just for participating.

For more information or to arrange a tour of the club, call 412-595-7879 or visit snapfitness.com/southparkpa. For more information on the challenge, visit www.snapfitness.com/lose.

Fitness Tip...Fitness Tip...Fitness Is salt bad for you?

Salt is not bad for you if used appropriately—the salt shaker at the dinner table is not the problem. The danger lies in the convenience and frozen packages and fast foods, which have a very high sodium content. Currently, 2,300 milligrams is the recommended amount. A teaspoon of salt is close to the 2,400 milligrams.

Salt is basically sodium chloride, two essential minerals required by the body that help communication between cells and many of the required processes. It is very much responsible for the fluid balance in our bodies. Salt is naturally occurring, kosher or Epsom; it can come from the sea and from minerals.

For nutritional information, call Dr. Geno Pisciottano at 724-743-4500.

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

MUTSCHLER ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE OFFERS EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS The staff of the Mutschler Orthopaedic Institute will offer a free informational session for people who are considering total knee or hip replacement surgery.

The free program will be held on Wednesday, February 1, at 2 p.m. and repeated on Wednesday, February 15, at 5 p.m. in the McNary Conference Center at Canonsburg General Hospital. Topics covered include arthritis, joint replacement surgery, pre-operative, operative and post-operative care, anesthesia, Pain management guides for the recovery period and physical therapy. A question and answer session is also included. To register, call 1-888-877-5955 or 724873-5955.

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more.

412.249.8177

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

HEALTH

Community Invited to MVH’s “Operation Sneak Peek” Tour With most of its $25 million expansion project all but hidden from view at the back of the campus, Monongahela Valley Hospital will host “Operation Sneak Peek” to show off its new surgical suites, which are part of the project.

Community members are invited to tour two of the four new surgical suites on Sunday, February 19 from 1 to 4 p.m. The addition containing the new suites adds approximately 12,750 The community is invited to a free tour of square feet to the hospital and is part of Monongahela Valley Hospital’s new surgical the hospital’s largest renovation and suites called “Operation Sneak Peek” on Sunday, February 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. Newly installed expansion project since MVH was built equipment extends from the ceiling of one of in Carroll Township in 1978.

MVH’s new operating suites. The addition conOperating Room staff will be on hand to taining the suites adds approximately 12,750 explain the state-of-the-art equipment square feet to the hospital. and how it will benefit patient care.

As the expansion project continues, existing surgical suites will also be updated and the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) will be expanded for optimal surgical care, patient recovery and privacy.

The hospital broke ground on the $25 million project in April 2011.

Visitors may also get a peek at the remaining portions of the expansion project still under construction, which span several floors and two separate buildings.

February 2012 ——————————————————————————————————————————

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

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP Thursday, February 2, at 1 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-258-1455.

BABY CARE CLASS - Monday, February 6, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., MonVale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Parents-to-be will learn baby care basics. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229), ext.

25.

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, February 7 – 9, from 8:30–11:30 a.m., ECC. A three-day, two-hour-per-day education series that focuses on diabetes selfmanagement and care. To register, call 724-258-1483.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP - Wednesday, February 8, at 6 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-292-9404.

INNOVATIONS IN SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER - Thursday, February 9, at 6 p.m., ECC. Find out if you’re suffering from more than just the winter blues. To register, call 724-2581333.

RSDS SUPPORT GROUP - Tuesday, February 14, at 11 a.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-929-9492.

ADVANCED CARBOHYDRATE COUNTING - Wednesday, February 15 from 6– 8 p.m., ECC. Diabetes self-management class that focuses on carb counting with everything you need to know. To register, call 724-28-1148.

.

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP Thursday, February 16, at 2 p.m., ECC. Learn about The Natural Way: Supplement Use with Diabetes. Advanced registration is required by callingv724258-1483.

COMMUNITY TOUR OF NEW MVH SURGICAL SUITES - Sunday, February 19, from 1 – 4 p.m., Hospital Main Lobby.

Preview the new state-of-the-art surgical suites as part of MVH’s $25 million expansion project. Light refreshments will follow in the new Conference Dining Room.

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, February 21 – 23, from 6 – 9 p.m., MonVale HealthPLEX. A three-day, two-hour per day education series that focuses on diabetes self management and care. To register, call 724-258-1483.

MVH AND RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE - Thursday, February 23, from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., ECC. To register, call 724-494-4090 or online at redcrosslife.org.

INFANT AND CHILD CPR - Thursday, February 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. ECC. The $40 fee is payable to VHSTC and advance registration is required at 724-684-9536.

BREASTFEEDING CLASS - Monday, February 2,7 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. Partners and grandmothers are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229), ext. 25.

ADULT CPR INSTRUCTION Tuesday, February 28, 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.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR MEAL PLAN - Tuesday, February 28, from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver.

Builds on the education received in the Managing Your Diabetes program. Learn more about food choices, dining out, and how your eating habits affect your blood glucose control. Completion of the threeday Diabetes Self Management Training is required prior to attending this class.

Contact the Center for Diabetes at 724258-1483 to register.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR READINGS - Wednesday, February 29, from 6- 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Learn how to make sense out of all those blood sugar readings you document. Understand how your diet, medications, illness, and stress affect your blood sugars. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self Management Training is required prior to attending this class. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of the class. Contact the Center for Diabetes at 724-258-1483 for more information and to register.

unionfinley.com 39 February 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Death Notices BANAHASKY – Edward J. Sr., 87, of Finleyville died Tuesday, January 10.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

MCVAY – Irene J. Frederick, 78, of Monongahela died Monday, January 2.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

BAVUSO – Samuel J., 82, of Monongahela died Friday, December 23. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

MELLOR – Paula June, 55, of Stow, Ohio died Friday, December 9. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

BIDDLE – Sheridan Arnold Jr., 84, of West Elizabeth died Friday, January 13.

Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

O’BRIEN – Richard A., 60, of New Eagle died Sunday, December 25. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

BENTLEY – George L., 83, of Shire Oaks section of Elrama died Saturday, December 24. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

OSTRANDER – William J. Jr., 91, of Finleyville died Wednesday, December 28.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

BOWERS – Roy Paul, 53, of Monongahela died Friday, December 16. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

PARKS – Robert Edward, 48, of Monongahela died Wednesday, January 11.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

BRUNELL – Maurice Louis, 71, of Stewartstown, formerly of Bethel Park, died Sunday, December 18. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

POPICH – Andrew J. Jr., 58, of Monongahela died Monday, December 26.

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

CAIN – Grace M., 78, of New Eagle died Tuesday, January 10. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

CLERIHUE – Lynne A., 62, of Finleyville died Tuesday, January 3. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

DEROSA – John Sr., 80, of New Eagle died Friday, January 6. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

FALORIO – Florence Antionette, 87, of Monongahela died Saturday, December 10.

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

GHILANI – MaryAnn (Bartolini), 57, of Monongahela died Wednesday, January 8.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

GREEN – John R. Sr., 80, of Monongahela died Wednesday, December 28.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

JENKINS – Jackie V., 62, of Kittanning died Thursday, December 28. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

SMITH – Ronald Roy, 74, of Monongahela died Sunday, January 15. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

THOMAS – Thelma McKeever, 86, of Monongahela died Friday, January 13.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

TORTORICE – Terry “T-Bird”, 43, of West Elizabeth died Saturday, December 31.

Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

VERES – John T., 86, of Finleyville died Tuesday, December 27. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

VOELKER – Hazel Belle, 90, of Monongahela died Saturday, December 17.

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

WHOOLERY – David, 56, of Monongahela (Forward Township) died Tuesday, January 10. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

WRAY – Eleanor E., 77, of Monongahela died Friday, January 10. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

LIVI – Stanley A., 96, of Washington died Friday, January 6. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

ZEMBO – Barbara Marie, 84, of Monongahela died Sunday, December 18.

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

MARTELLO – Mafalda, 89, of New Eagle died Thursday, January 12. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

ZONCA – Anita J., 96, of Monongahela died Thursday, December 29. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Automotive

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

HOME & GARDEN

February 2012 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

More than 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

Buyer

Address

Price

UNION TOWNSHIP JPMC Specialty Mortgage LLC Maronda Homes Inc. Mary Esselstyn

David Bayne Meghan Graham Deutsche Bank National Trust Co.

19 Jefferson St. 154 Cinque Terra Place 6068 Route 88

$72,000 $138,730 $3,355 by sheriff's deed

MONONGAHELA Tracy Traverso Robert Porter Donald Daniels Teri Pisitelli Maryann Anthony Kathleen Sadler Louis Frank Ali PNC Bank Sammy Mele

Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Federal National Mortgage Assn.

PNC Bank Darlene Garrick Deborah Lenzi Theodore Klorczyk Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Oldenburg Property Management Inc. David and Jane Anne Perecko

402 Second St. 430 Carson St. 449 Francis Ave. 1030 Stanton Ave. 804 Fourth St. 779 Kennedy St. 419 Second St. 449 Francis Ave. 1020 Lincoln St.

$1,182 by sheriff's deed $1,160 by sheriff's deed $1,309 by sheriff's deed $42,421 $100,000 $79,900 $2,139 by sheriff's deed $5,900 $30,000

CARROLL TOWNSHIP Lee Davis Debra Dixon John LaCarte Estate of Helen Yakimyshin Estate of Lena Hudak

Keith Carson and Angela Fronzaglio Gerald and Barbara Maisano Damon Nicodemus and Audrey King Johanna Marie Bullard Barbara Lutka

17 Lookout Ave. 786 Route 481 104 Sunset Ave. 73 Locust Ave. 1244 Highland Road

$110,000 $5,000 $162,500 $163,000 $155,000

ELIZABETH BOROUGH Richard Mark Barbara Hafer Bayview Loan Servicing LLC

Neal Sibley Amy Fisher Katherine and Scott Jamison

311 S. Third Ave. 400 Bayard St. 614 S. Second Ave.

$42,900 $58,000 $90,000

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Housing & Urban Development Maronda Homes Inc. Peter David Janicki et al.

Robert Madden David Lesko Matthias Schonlau Estate of Irene Gaydos Estate of James Robert Harbaugh Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trustee Anthony Washburn Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

John Kapolka

Rebecca Reichenbach Marc and Kathleen Vasko Vincent Wirbicki Kyle Loschke Garrett Morningstar Duane Boden Gerald Koebler and Geraldine Corbett Justin Pany Danica Mannion Braden and Allison Shipe Anthony Hutskow II Joshua Sabo

309 Donna Drive 216 Williamsburg Drive 618 Elizabeth Ave. 407 Highland Drive 2050 Ridge Road Birch Drive 206 Clover Drive 2444 Greenock Buena Vista Road 2124 Lebanon Drive 800 Simpson Howell Road 165 Grouse Drive 514 Wylie Ave.

FORWARD TOWNSHIP Alonzo Howell Alonzo Howell

Bruno and Lynette DelBianco Gregory and Patty Cox

Sunfish Road Sunfish Road

$1,500 $24,000

WEST ELIZABETH Alleen McLaughlin et al.

Paul and Jenna Gilbert

909 Seventh St.

$79,000

CLAIRTON Richard Pearson Louis Rock Ivan Begg Catherine Curry estate et al.

Glenn Thomas Allegheny County Housing Authority

Janaya Barr Michael and Barbara Natter Dean Maksin Jr. John William and Linda Genevieve Donnelly US Bank NA trustee Cityplace Center LLC

337 Baker Ave. 621 Farnsworth Ave. 513 Locust Ave. 404 N. Sixth St. 705 Walnut Ave. Maple Ave.

$56,500 $232,940 $40,000 $138,000 $59,560 $4,000 $124,900 $85,000 $134,000 $180,000 $100,000 $99,900

$59,900 $28,750 $72,000 $25,000 $1,837 by sheriff's deed $100,000

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

unionfinley.com 41 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

Mark Mihal Mark Pazo Girard Sidone Anthony Valente Huntington National Bank Charles McCaughey et al.

Gina Jenkins James Vibostak Don McIntosh

Mihal Properties LLC Edward and Elizabeth Guballa Prime PA Properties LLC Shawn Patterson Olena Chepizhko and Petr Fastovskiy Sharon Mick and Jennifer Granato Lisa Galloway Carol Properties Pittsburgh LLC Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

930 Miller Ave. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $35,334) 713 Waddell Ave. $9,200 605 Lafayette Drive $28,000 253 Shaw Ave. $10,000 237-239 Waddell Ave. $5,000 533 Farnsworth Ave. $19,900 1004 McPherson Ave. $25,000 869 Vankirk St. $12,000 406 Walnut Ave. $1,767 by sheriff's deed

SOUTH PARK Dennis White Delia Zupancic estate et al.

Heartland Homes Inc. Estate of Margaret Smith Estate of Nelle Valdiserri Georg Ann Matise Dan Zheng Darrin Shaffer Thomas Moses trustee et al.

True North Properties Group LLC Estate of Nancy Betz William Paul Jr. Wadwell Group Mary Elizabeth Levy

Ronald and Julie Smith Jason Huenefeld Keith and Vanessa Costantino Charles and Jennifer Partyka KAI LLC Michael Roth and Gina Quirin Josef Berletic and Jocelyn Graff Kathy Reinecker Cenobio Munoz Valladares Thomas and Christine Kress Celeste Petursson Green Chase Properties 2 LLC Heartland Homes Inc. Andrew Rostoky

921 Bideford Drive 6519 Brownsville Road 1230 Snee Drive 6404 Helen St. 6431 Library Road 1309 Royal Park Blvd.

2417 Bonnie Dell Drive 900 Hidden Ridge Court Unit 301 2951 Ridge Road 283 Dolores Drive 1824 Edward Drive 1403 Greenbriar Court 1194 Snee Drive 150 Sylvania Drive

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

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$263,000 $143,900 $286,861 $80,000 $100,000 $168,500 $241,000 $103,000 $12,750 $174,900 $150,000 $167,000 $64,000 $143,200

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

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

HOME & GARDEN

February 2012 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

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

Buyer

Address

Price

PLEASANT HILLS Stephen Smith Robert Skelly et al.

Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Danny and Debra Brown

Peter Petrovich Jacqueline Mooney

Peter and Tracey Safran Xiao Ming Yang

James Coll Karl Rothey Nancy Bundy Robinson Fore Inc. Estate of Veronica Sadowski

Patricia and Karl Rothey Dustin and Nicole Johnson Christine and Jonathan Davis Jason and Amy Thomas Jerold and Kimberly Wagner

$1,704 by sheriff's deed $31,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $291,564) 642 Inglefield Drive $250,000 245 Tara Drive $45,100 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $149,643) by sheriff's deed 322 Dutch Lane $280,000 114 Steiner Drive $330,000 151 Revere Drive $122,500 171 Robinson Drive $49,500 234 Temona Drive $105,000

JEFFERSON HILLS Maronda Homes Inc. Payne Hill LLC

Terence and Jennifer Oates Payne Hill Phase 2 LLC

31 Beagle Court 101 Payne Hill Road

Larry Williams Donna Breault Castor Farm Assoc. Inc. Metropolitan Savings Service Corp.

Pete Sideris William Kunkel Jr. Gill Hall Land Co. Estate of Mary Jean Provins Matisic Donna M Conwell Revocable Living Trust

Joshua Scott Edward Markunas Donald and Catherine Housley Greenfield Abers LLC Louis Ramsey Kathryn Susan and Ian Steimer Sean and Kris Weldon Paul and Mary Rose Petrun Dean Barron et al. and Raymond Klos

220 Congress Drive 115 Dutch Lane

$247,710 $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $315,315) 503 Payne Hill Road $145,000 1419 Route 885 $117,500 4024 Castor Lane $82,000 1633 Route 51 $225,000 584 State Route 885 $134,000 436 W. Deer Park Drive $190,000 3317 Woodwind Drive $308,800 1039 Riverview Drive $85,000 207 Stilley Road $80,000

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

unionfinley.com 43 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP Evelyn E Lechner Trust Suzanne Baumgard Henry Tamburri George Severns Jr. Steven Bavaro Yaser Nubani David Jobkar

B & J Properties Western Pennsylvania LL Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Michelle Kerna and Daniel Steiner Nicholas Foglia Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Denise Kuhn Charles Layman

PETERS TOWNSHIP Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Heartland Homes Inc. Maura Lauth Estate of Alveria Guzik Miriam Kramer Miller Allen Clingan Florence Celento S & T Bank Chad Brogley

John Allen Glud III and Angela Lynne Glud Lee and Angela Pilling Sharon Vollmer Joan and Barbara Lynn Cisko Geno and Cynthia Levi Gerald and Judith Prado Miriam Rall and Dawn Bollinger Mucho Mad Peters Assoc. L.P. Darren White

Address 46 Vista Lane 23 Yohe St. 63 Blair Ave. Greenleaf Court 209 Pinenut Drive 607 Muntown Road 127 Valley Road

Price $170,000 $1,346 by sheriff's deed $117,022 $61,000 $1,302 by sheriff's deed $95,564 $279,500

324 Buckingham Drive $698,390 428 Longleaf Drive $586,567 167 Roscommon Place $183,000 3109 School Place $145,000 132 Scott Lane $110,000 205 Overlook Drive $100,000 403 Soctt Lane $109,900 3380 Washington Road $1,522,700 141 Hemlock Drive $16,300 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $81,885) NVR Inc. Peter and Kristina Ploskina 107 McIntosh Drive $349,930 NVR Inc. Christopher Pinelli & Colleen Starcevic Pinelli 117 McIntosh Drive $294,891 Alfred Cagni William and Michelle Thomas 310 Turkeyfoot Road $382,000 Now find Edmund Jooste Jignesh and Shardaben Patel 104 Abbey Court $378,000 Re from transact alStats 84 Financial L.P. Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Buckingham Drive $1,317,730 ions your Hardy Credit Financing L.P. Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Buckingham Drive $1,450,000 our w commun www ebsite! ity on Alyce Brennan National Transfer Services LLC 205 Rock Run Road $420,000 .

Searc unionfinle Visit National Transfer Services LLC Rodd and Nicole Henry 205 Rock Run Road $420,000 Trans h our R y.com.

Dorothy Riechers William Damon III and Diane Damon 130 Scenery Circle $225,000 eal acti curre ons page Estate Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Dennis and Melanie Mountain 119 Woodcrest Place $250,000 nt an and f d i n a d r ch home sales ived Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>. .

Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.

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Don’t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Home & Garden Section.

For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177

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

February 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

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

Upcoming Events at Wrights United Methodist Wrights United Methodist will again be hosting Kids Night Out. KNO is a fun children’s ministry held on Wednesday evenings and is open to kids ages 3 years to fifth grade. Our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 29 from 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. The fun will continue through March 28. You can call the church office to register your children or with any questions at 724348-5718.

Join us at Wrights United Methodist church for a Lenten Bible study titled “24 Hours that Changed the World” by Adam Hamilton. The study will focus on the last 24 hours of Jesus’ life.

Discussions will include The Last Supper, Condemned by Righteousness, Jesus, Barabbas and Pilate and Crucifixion, to name a few. The Bible study will begin on Wednesday, February 29 and continue on through Lent. Call the church office to register or with any questions.

February 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 served at the early service.

We are located behind Rolling Hills Golf Course about two miles from Donaldson's Crossroads.

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

Signups for our summer mission trip to Louisiana continue. See Becky Boyer for details.

Central Blood Bank accepts blood donations in the church basement every Thursday and Saturday.

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

The Church Auction Committee is

accepting items for their ongoing eBay auctions to support our youth mission trip next summer.

Presbyterian Women’s Circles meet every month. Penny jars to support our “Trees for Haiti” mission are located in the Gathering Place.

If you would like 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.

Our church supports several mission 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 at 724-941-9050.

Upcoming Events at Ruthfred Lutheran Church GriefShare is a network of thousands of grief recovery support groups meeting around the world to help individuals walk the journey of grief and be supported on the way. The heartfelt daily prayers, meaningful reflections, insightful videos and Scripture verses will comfort and strengthen you on your personal journey through the grief process. God did not intend for you to walk the path of grief alone.

• Our GriefShare Support Group begins on Monday, February 6 at 7:30 p.m. for 13 weeks at Ruthfred Lutheran Church, South Park Road at Patterson, Bethel Park. Please visit our church website at www.ruthfred.org for more information or visit www/griefshare.org.

• Walk Thru The Bible - New Testament Seminar will be held on Sunday, March 11 at Ruthfred Lutheran Church from 12:30 - 6:30 p.m. Visit www.ruthfred.org for more information and registration form.

St. Thomas A' Becket Fish Fry During the Lenten Season, St. Thomas A' Becket Church in Jefferson Hills will hold its Fish Fry beginning the first Friday of Lent in its school at 139 Gill Hall Road on February 24 .

Following that, the Fish Fry will be scheduled every Friday in Lent. Hours are 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., including Good Friday. The menu includes fried fish dinners, baked fish dinners, shrimp dinners, fish sandwich, French fries, coleslaw, haluski, soup, homemade desserts, a weekly “special” and more.

The special for Good Friday will be pirohy - pierogy. Take-out dinners are available by calling 412-655-9966.

Hamilton Presbyterian Church Begins Bible Study for Today’s Women In today’s world, if you have experienced doubt, temptation, losses, family problems, or personal inconsistencies, this study is for you!

Hamilton Presbyterian Church will begin the Beth Moore Bible Study, “A Heart Like His: Seeking the Heart of God Through a Study off David,” on Tuesday January 31 at 10 a.m. The same Bible study will also be offered Wednesday evenings, beginning February 1 at 7 p.m. Both classes will be held in the church lounge and all are welcome.

This study is an 11-week adventure that focuses on the promise that God will never give up on us. With Beth Moore’s guidance, we plan to explore how David’s life proves this promise to be true. Known in the Bible as “the man after God’s own heart,” David will delight and disappoint us. We’ll want to be just like him at times and nothing like him at others.

Hamilton Presbyterian Church is located at the corner of Baptists and Hamilton roads in Bethel Park. For additional information, call the church office at 412-884-3370.

Ash Wednesday Fish Fry at St. Francis of Assisi Parish St. Francis of Assisi Parish of Finleyville will hold their annual Ash Wednesday Fish Fry on Wednesday, February 22. Take-outs only will be from 12 Noon to 2 p.m. You can place your order by calling 724-348-0803.

Dinners plus take-outs will be served from 2 to 6:30 p.m. The fish fry will be held in Finley Hall on Rt. 88 in Finleyville. Ticket prices are $7.50/adult and $5/child.

Nativity Church Ash Wednesday Fish Dinner Nativity Church of South Park is sponsoring an Ash Wednesday Fish Dinner on February 22. You can eat in or take out between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Dinners include fried or baked fish, a choice of two sides, coffee or tea. 50/50, a treasure chest raffle and bake sale. For more information, call 412-854-3133.

Fish Fry at St. Paul's Anglican Church 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. Fish, shrimp, crab cake, fish dinners and sandwiches, soups, coleslaw, french fries, zucchini strips, homemade desserts, and beverages. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Ash Wednesday Services Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray will hold Ash Wednesday services at 12:15 and 7:30 p.m. For additional information, call 724-941-7467 or visit the church’s website at www.ourredeemerpeters.org.

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

February Events at Beth Israel Center Synagogue Beth Israel Center Synagogue provides weekly and holiday Jewish religious services, educational and instructional programs, and emotional, spiritual and social support activities throughout the year. Our lovely facility is located on five acres of land at the border of Pleasant Hills and Jefferson Hills at 118 Gill Hall Road. We have a large kosher kitchen that has made food preparation possible for functions such as baby naming ceremonies, memorial services, bar mitzvahs , bat mitzvahs, confirmations, Chanukah luncheons, Sisterhood meetings, Men’s Club pancake breakfasts, summer picnics, special anniversary celebrations, and social hours after lectures and religious services.

Sisterhood has published two excellent cookbooks containing the outstanding recipes of its members. A copy of the latest book may be ordered for $15 by calling the office at 412-655-2144. For information about our events or membership, contact the office and visit our website at www.bethisraelpgh.org.

Upcoming Events: Friday Evening Services – February 3, 10, 17 and 24 at 7:30 p.m.

Rabbi Amy Greenbaum – On February 17, services will be led by Rabbi Amy Greenbaum with the Shabbos lecture given by Dr. Martin Pomerantz.

Men’s Club Breakfast Meeting Sunday, February 12, at 9:30 a.m.

Adult Lecture Series - Sunday night, February 26, at 7:30 p.m. The lecture will feature Rabbi Mark Mahler discussing “The Creation Story: Judaism's Blueprint for History.” The series is sponsored by Louise and Bill Hunt in

Dr. Howard Lang and Rachel Weinblum relax in the remodeled library at Beth Israel Center.

Shirley Ravets, fundraising chairperson, and Bonnie Harrison, financial secretary of Sisterhood,coordinate the silent auction at Beth Israel Center’s Chanukah luncheon.

memory of Roy and Judy Joseph. All lectures are open to the public and free.

Refreshments and social hour will follow services.

Special thanks to Carol Lang for her excellent cooking class, Bob Burack for being chef at the Men’s Club pancake breakfast, Shirley Ravets for being chairperson of the Chanukah Luncheon’s silent auction, Bonnie Harrison for her assistance with the auction and Dr. Martin Pomerantz for his interesting lecture at services on Friday, December 30. The luncheon and cooking class were sponsored by Sisterhood. The co-presidents of Sisterhood are Janet Selsley and Dr. Joan Glickstein.

Woman's Retreat with Paula D’Arcy Nativity Parish in South Park presents a Woman’s Retreat with noted spiritual writer and speaker Paula D' Arcy on Saturday, March 17 from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Paula lost her husband and daughter in an automobile accident as a young wife. She has written Gift of the Red Bird, Waking Up to This Day, Seeking With All My Heart and others. The theme of the retreat is Healing Our World from the Inside Out. Cost is $25 and includes lunch.

To register, call 412-215-7743.

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February 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

ASK ASK the

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

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

EYE CARE Q: What is a cataract?

A: A cataract is the clouding of the human lens within the eye. There are several types of cataracts, but they all have adverse effects on vision, such as glare, poor night vision, difficulty reading, and eventual decline of vision.

Q: Can you please explain how iComfort Sleep Systems by Serta is any different than a standard memory foam mattress

A: Today, many people prefer a memory foam mattress

for its pressure-relieving comfort, ability to conform and adapt to each person's body, and outstanding motion isolation. Even so, traditional memory foam technology hasn't changed much since it was invented more than 40 years "Pothole" Highway Appliances ago. While it can provide great comfort to many, others find that memory foam mattresses can sleep too hot, sink in too deeply or make it hard to adjust sleep positions in the night. Isn't it about time that someone reinvented memory foam?

Introducing the new iComfort Sleep System by Serta, featuring our Cool Action™ Gel Memory Foam - the world’s first memory foam infused with the support and cooling touch of Serta’s MicroSupport™ gel. This revolutionary new memory foam is designed to deliver superior pressure relief and more targeted support while sleeping cooler than ordinary memory foam. Plus, it is antimicrobial and dust mite resistant to help protect your mattress from potential allergens.

COOL ACTION™ GEL MEMORY FOAM

Q: How are cataracts diagnosed?

A: Your local optometrist will inform you if a cataract is present. As your optometrist provides your routine eye care, he or she will carefully examine you for the presence of cataracts. The human lens is located inside the eye, behind your pupil (iris), so dilating the pupil with drops is helpful in detecting especially the earlier forms of cataracts.

FURNITURE & BEDDING

James P. Mondzelewski, MD Glaucoma Cataract Consultants

What makes iComfort technology better than ordinary memory foam? Serta’s Cool Action Gel Memory Foam is designed to feel like traditional memory foam...only better! What makes our Cool Action material different is the MicroSupport gel, which is infused into premium memory foam to create an extremely comfortable, more supportive and cooler sleep surface.

The iComfort® Sleep System offers a variety of options so you can find the level of comfort and support that is perfect for you. Choose from four different models with distinct feels ranging from cushion firm to luxuriously plush.

Visit Highway Appliances today and let us show you the how the iComfort Sleep System by Serta can improve your sleeping experience.

Q: Do I need surgery right away if I have cataracts?

A: No. With the most common form of cataract, at least initially, changes in glass-

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es will compensate for the change in focus induced by the cataract. Given enough time, however, glasses will no longer improve your vision and a referral for cataract surgery will be required.

Q: What if surgery is required?

A: There is no need to leave the Mon Valley. Ask your optometrist for a referral to Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants. We provide state-of-the-art cataract removals at Spartan Surgical Center. We perform no-stich, no-patch, outpatient cataract removals utilizing the very latest technology in the world. Most patients experience improvement of vision within hours or days, experience no pain, and can resume everyday activities within 24 hours. Options are now available that allow for the virtual elimination of glasses. You can discuss this advanced technology with your referring optometrist. We will always discuss with you any of these advanced options prior to scheduling of your cataract removal procedure.

S U R G I C E N T E R James P. Mondzelewski, MD Glaucoma Cataract Consultants, Vista One, Suite 201, Charleroi, PA, 724-483-3688

CARDIOLOGY Q: I have been treated for an irregular heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation for a couple of years and have to get blood work to check my clotting levels. What can you tell me about these “new drugs” that don’t require blood work?

A: Over the last several months new anticoagulants (blood Dr. Gennady Geskin MD, FACC thinners) have been FDA approved and you may have seen Jefferson Cardiology them advertised. It is true these do not require routine Association Board Certified in Vascular blood tests. They also do not have the food interactions that and Endovascular Medicine Coumadin (warfarin) has. These medicines reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. There are risks and benefits to these new medications, Pradaxa (dabigatran) and Xarelto ( rivaroxaban). If you are interested in learning more and finding out if these medications are right for you, contact your healthcare provider for more information Jefferson Cardiology Association Suite 403, 575 Coal Valley Road Jefferson Regional Medical Center Medical Office Building, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 (412) 469-1500 • www.jeffersoncardiology.com

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Food & Dining

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Children & Family Peters Township Public Library Offers Daily Programs for Children and Families The Peters Township Public Library offers special programming and resources for children and their families on a daily basis.

The library takes great pride in its continued efforts to promote family togetherness. Their programs such as family story time, movie nights, holiday story times, and craft nights enable families to spend quality time together.

The library also offers technology experiences for the young and the young at heart. The LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer, a durable child-friendly learning tablet, is one of the many popular items available for check out.

Experience with your child our interactive Tag readers and Junior Tag readers, a best-selling reading system that brings books and games magically to life. Get a new Wii for Christmas? Nothing brings the family together like a fun game. The library has games available for loan to use with your Wii, Xbox 360 or Nintendo DS. It will not be a long, dull winter—the Peters Township Public Library offers everything you need to settle in for a long winter’s night or a place to go for a warm winter’s program! For more information about library programs and resources, call 724-941-9430 or visit the Children’s Department.

How Can I Help My Child(ren) Deal with Grief?

Talking to children about death must be focused on each individual child's developmental level and sensitive to the child’s capacity to understand and comprehend the particular situation.

Children will watch and be aware of the reactions of adults around them and how they are dealing with their grief.

Children may respond with shock, regressive behaviors, acting out, or repeatedly asking the same questions over and over in an effort to understand something with which they are having difficulty.

BELOW ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP CHILDREN DEAL WITH THEIR GRIEF: * Ask the child to tell their story. Be a good listener. * Remember that all children deal with grief differently. * Acknowledge that grieving is a process, not an event. It will take time. * Don't lie - it doesn't help the child through the healing process. * Give the child appropriate information for his/her understanding level. * Encourage children to ask questions, and answer them honestly and appropriately. * Remember that a child will need ongoing and long-lasting support through this process. * Understand and express to the child that grief is complicated. * Be aware of your own grief. Family counseling and support may be helpful. * Help children understand changes in their friends and families’ behavior, and let them know this is not personal or a permanent change in their relationship.

* A child may need some help with options to offer support to those they love. You might recommend making cards or drawings, helping with chores or homework, errands, shopping, cleaning, etc. depending on their age and level of ability. * A child who is frightened about attending a funeral should not be forced to go. Children should be allowed to express feelings about their loss and grief in their own way. This might be in the form of lighting a candle in honor of the deceased loved one, saying a prayer, making a scrapbook, reviewing photographs, or telling a story.

Many resources are available—from books to counselors to community organizations—that can provide guidance. Your efforts will go a long way in helping your child get through this difficult time.

If you need or would like additional support, do not hesitate to contact Celtic Healthcare’s bereavement team.

We will be happy to help you and your child(ren) deal with this difficult time If you would like to read more of Celtic Healthcare’s 4-part Series on Grief, please visit celtichealthcare.com.

You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Homeschooled Children Can Discover Animal Architecture in Outdoor Classroom The Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation is offering a Homeschool Outdoor Classroom at Mingo Creek County Park. The program will be held on Thursday, February 9 at the Park Office. Two sessions are available: Session I will begin at 10 a.m., and Session II will begin at 1 p.m.

Have you often wondered how animals are able to survive our winters? Join us as we discover animal migrations, hibernations, and adaptations. We also plan to hike in search of some critters and the signs they leave behind. Dress accordingly for the weather and hiking, as we hope to venture outside!

Please note that this program is designed for homeschooled children ages 5 to 11. Pre-registration is required and can be made by calling the Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation Office at 724-228-6867. There is no fee for this program.

Mingo Creek Park is located 12 miles east of Washington off of Route 136.

Peters Township Public Library Offers Free Financial Aid Guidance The Peters Township Public Library will offer a free FAFSA Completion Session on Saturday, February 18 at 10:30 a.m. in the first floor meeting room.

This workshop, for college-bound seniors and their parents, provides the opportunity to get personalized help completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the chance to ask questions related to the financial aid process.

Session information will be provided by Jayeann Harr, Higher Education Access Partner the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA).

Preregistration is required for this program; email programs@ptlibrary.org, call 724-941-9430, or visit the library circulation desk.

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

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

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Seniors

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•••• • • • • •••••

Forever Young Hello from our small but terrific group, Forever Young. We meet every Tuesday in the Finleyville Community Center at 10 am. We had a wonderful time at our three regular luncheons last month and had a lot of fun at the January 10 Supermarket/Grocery Bingo. We also enjoyed a great covered-dish dinner on January 24. Leslie Wright from Prime Time Health visited with us at our January 17 luncheon and gave us “12 Tips to a Healthier 2012.”

Looking forward to February, we have catered luncheons scheduled for February 4, 14 and 21. Leslie Wright will be visiting with us again on February 21, and on February 28 we’ve scheduled another covered-dish dinner chaired by Rosemarie Zrimsek.

Happy Valentine’s Day from Forever Young. You mean the world to someone. The heart that loves is always young.

••••••••

February Meeting of the Retired Men's Luncheon Group of Pleasant Hills There can be problems with even the simplest estate, will or trust agreement. At the February meeting of the Retired Men’s Luncheon Group of Pleasant Hills, we will hear a presentation on the difficulties that can occur (with some examples from the news) and how to avoid them.

The meeting will be held at noon on Thursday, February 16 in the Fellowship Hall of the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, located at the corner of Old Clairton Road and Audrey Drive in Pleasant Hills.

Cost for the lunch is only $6. For additional information, or to indicate your intention to attend, call the office of the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church at (412) 655-2000. Please call by Friday, February 10 to be included in the lunch order.

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.

Just a little information about our center—as you know, it was once the Venetia Elementary School (the red brick building) and now it is the Venetia Community Center. We have our luncheons there twice a month, sponsored by The Agency on Aging. Meals are prepared at the Canonsburg Senior Center, then we send a volunteer to bring the hot meals to our center. The only requirements to attend are that you must be a senior (age 60 or older) and must make a reservation ahead of time, as it is a catered meal. Reservations can be made by calling Erma Grego at 724-941-6956.

We have blood pressure screenings from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. The first screening is done by Sharon Hixenbaugh from Caring Mission Home Care, and the second screening is done by Lucy Corson from Family Home Health. We then have a delicious hot lunch from 12 noon to about 1 p.m., followed a 50/50 drawing. We then have a speaker or some fun activity, after which, if time allows, we play Bingo, rounding out a fun and pleasant afternoon. Come and join us.

Our first luncheon in February will be held on the 9th. A Valentine party will be held by Amanda Pierce from Manor Care located in Peters Township. Our second luncheon will be on February 23. The program will be presented by one of our own members, Don Roach (a tenor soloist), accompanied on the piano by another member, Elizabeth Jefferies.

Birthdays for February are Carolyn Dagg, Ron Dagg, Kathy Fink, and Erma Grego. Anniversaries are Bob and Irene Gordon.

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Washington City Mission Appoints New Director of Programs City Mission announces the appointment of Kenneth Heater as its new Director of Programs.

Heater started his new responsibilities on October 24, 2011. He will lead the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programming and staff (case management, clinical counseling, medical, shelter, and kitchen) for the consistent achievement of its mission and program objectives.

The program seeks to assist each client in identifying the barriers to their independence and then connect the client to the proper services that will reduce or eliminate those barriers. This includes housing, employment, income development, spiritual life and recovery, noted Dean Gartland, City Mission President/CEO. Kenneth Heater Heater brings over 17 years of executive management experience, including 11.5 years with homeless and addiction recovery missions. He most recently served in addiction recovery as Executive Director of Las Vegas Rescue Mission in Las Vegas, NV, where he was well respected in the community. He is described as "... a man who lives his passion for serving and helping others" by Robin Joyce, Pastor, Canyon Ridge Church, and "... a community-minded leader with strong ethics and character" by Ricki Barlow, LV City Councilman. Prior to his work with Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Heater served 10 years in addiction recovery as Executive Manager with Helping Up Mission, Baltimore, MD, and 6 years as Director of Public Affairs with Washington Bible College, Lanham, MD.

Birth Announcement Ethan Kozlowski

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Be Left Out of The Union-Finley Messenger S c h o o l N e w s S e c t i o n . For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177

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Finleyville Resident Named to Hope College Deanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s List Jillian Conner, daughter of Jeffrey and Cynthia Conner of Finleyville, has been named to the deanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list for the first semester of the 2011-12 school year at Hope College. To be named to the deanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list, a student must have a minimum 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

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Ethan Michael Kozlowski was born November 7, 2011. Baby Ethan weighed 7 lbs., and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Mandy and Jeramie (Peen) Kozlowski of Elrama.

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February 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

School News Bmarc School of Driving Offers Driving Classes to Elizabeth Forward Students

Elizabeth Forward Middle School Student Kylie Giel Organizes Fundraiser to Benefit Children's Hospital Free Care Fund Kylie Giel, a sixth grade Elizabeth Forward Middle School student, recently organized a fundraiser to benefit the Children's Hospital Free Care Fund. Students from the middle school and William Penn Elementary donated over $500 combined to this worthy cause.

Elizabeth Elementary Students Win PennDOT Aviation Art Contest Elizabeth Forward elementary school students, District 11 winners of the statewide PennDOT Aviation Art Contest are Kaelyn McClain, a fourth grader at Central Elementary School, and Christian Guinto-Brody, a third grader at Mt. Vernon Elementary School. The students were honored for their artistic achievements by PennDOT's District 11 Executive Dan Cessna on Thursday, January 5. They were recognized for their work demonstrating the contest theme of “Aviation's Value to My Community.” More than 900 entries in each of 11 engineering districts were received.

Each winning student received a mounted enlarged copy of their entry and a certificate signed by the transportation secretary. Each school also received a mounted copy to display. For more information or to see the winning entries, visit www.dot.state.pa.us and click on “Aviation & Rail Freight” to the Bureau of Aviation.

The Bmarc School of Driving, located in the Elizabeth Learning Center on Second Street in Elizabeth, is offering theory classes to students through classroom instruction or online beginning at age 15. A Pennsylvania state learner’s permit is not required to take the theory course. Students may choose to take six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction separately (scheduled individually).

Students must obtain a Pennsylvania state learner's permit prior to beginning any behind-the-wheel instruction and must be 16 years of age. Both the theory and the wheel instruction can be taken separately. Only current high school students enrolled in the Elizabeth Forward School District may participate in the “30+6” program, which eliminates making an appointment at a driver's licensing center to take the driver’s test. Students enrolled in the program are eligible to take their driver’s exam with one of the certified instructors.

Students participating must complete the 30 hours of instruction and an additional six hours of behind-the-wheel prior to testing. Students meeting all requirements and skill levels need to take the driver’s exam will be tested at no charge.

Complete driver’s licensing requirements can be found at www.dmv.state.pa.us/centers. Phone 412-956-0222 or visit www.bmarcschoolofdriving.com for additional information. Parental authorization is required.

Elizabeth Forward Middle School National Junior Honor Society Chapter Takes Service into the Community The Elizabeth Forward Middle School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society participated in a holiday community service project in conjunction with Mt. Vernon of Elizabeth Assisted Living. On December 1, 6 and 8, students had the opportunity to create festive holiday wreaths with elderly residents. While making the wreaths, residents were able to enjoy the students’ company. In addition, club members created and distributed holiday cards to each resident.

NJHS members were also involved in a Thanksgiving food drive as well as the district-wide holiday food drive. Students are also active within the middle school community, and seventh and eighth grade students currently serve as peer tutors.

In the coming months, members are looking forward to becoming more involved with various community causes. The purpose of NJHS is to not only create enthusiasm for scholarship but also to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, to develop character and to encourage good citizenship in the students of secondary schools.

Participants included Nicholas DeRoss, Greg Sutek, Ryan Martin, Trae Landy, Emily Brown, Michael Calabro, Allison Shaner, Lacey Strotman, Carly McCall, Kayla McCall, Tyler Prah, Veronica Fallert, Marissa Janicki, Gabby Dinello, Zachary Martik, Abby Vuick, Mariah Delbianco, Stephanie Thornton, Chloe Fine, Meredith Charles, Jenna Kelly, Gail Gronlund, Haley West, Danielle Thompson, Alyssa Marks, Allyson Youkers, Jacob DeMaio, Emma Stragand, Seth Ulm, Callie Stoffer, Bryer Cochenour, Brooke Kelly, Ian Watson, Kevin Trasp, Savanna Cousino, Kalyn Combetty, Michael Weimerskirch, Shelby Nigon, Maranda Mosley, Julianna Jones, Madison McMeans, Sara Bankovich, Madison Stepanik, Nicola Molea, Madison Porter, Colin Pastor, Ryan Lee, Nathaniel Casturo, Holden Sczerba, and Tyler Breda.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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MADONNA PETERS TOWNSHIP

SCHOOL NEWS

SCHOOL NEWS

MCRS is holding a used book sale to raise money for the Monongahela Area Library.

The cold weather may force recess indoors, but the students enjoy their free time.

The Peters Township High School Music Department held its annual Meatballs and Music fundraiser at the high school on Saturday, January 21. The event included a Chinese auction and spaghetti and meatball dinners for musically inspired dining or take-out. Tom and Karen Ellis of Carroll Drive enjoyed a band concert that included their daughters. Senior Kim Ellis played saxophone, and junior Krisy Ellis played flute.

Saint Katharine Drexel School Bingomania

Everyone at Madonna Catholic Regional School is excited about basketball season.

Saint Katharine Drexel School is hosting Bingomania children’s bingo on Saturday, February 4 at Nativity School cafeteria, 5811 Curry Road, South Park.

Doors open at 5:15 p.m.; bingo begins at 6 p.m. Admission is $6 and includes 12 regular games or auction tickets. Everyone entering bingo must have a ticket. Other festivities include auction baskets, door prizes, face painting, games, and an array of tempting dinner items. For tickets, please call the school at 412833-0223. Please get your tickets early. Only a limited supply of tickets will be available at the door.

Sixth grade boys at MCRS enjoy working on a group project.

Coming in March

Wedding Guide

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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Taxpayers and Parents Upset With Ringgold School Board: Proposed Changes in Building Use Infuriates Many Parents

By Paul Chasko

The newly elected majority of the Ringgold School Board seems determined to reopen Donora Elementary Center (DEC) and Monongahela Elementary Center (MEC), which were closed after the 2010/2011 school year. Most of them promised to take this action in public forums while campaigning for school board director seats, so within hours of being sworn in in late December 2011, they floored and passed a motion to evaluate the reopening of MEC and DEC, to convert the newly renovated Ringgold Elementary South (RES) building into a middle school and to close the Finley Middle School. Due to the overwhelmingly negative response from RES parents, Board Member Larry Mauro rescinded his previous motion. He instead floored another motion at a special meeting on January 11, 2012 to have the architects (HHSDR) examine the possibility of reopening MEC and DEC for combined use as a middle school with grades 5 and 6 in one building and grades 7 and 8 in the other.

His motion also included not engaging the architects to examine converting RES back into a middle school. HHSDR has completed the preliminary evaluation and reported on its findings in workshops held on January 11 and 18.

This preliminary evaluation was sufficiently detailed to put a price tag of $4,466,000 on the DEC repairs and $5,498,000 on the MEC repairs (roughly a $10 million project). These costs do not include any financing or operating costs.

Further, they do not include costs for repairs of any hidden problems that may be uncovered after work begins. HHSDR states that these costs will make “bare bones” repairs necessary to provide middle school use for only a 5-10 year period. The report also included costs for complete renovations similar to those done on the RES building with a 25-year building life projection. These costs were estimated at just over $30 million (approaching the cost of a new building).

The HHSDR report on the condition of the DEC and MEC buildings has been posted on the Ringgold School District website www.ringgold.org (click on facilities and construction information). The report details all the problems with the two old buildings that would need to be addressed if they are to be reopened. According to Architect Greer Haydon, the top sections of the DEC walls will need to be reconstructed, as the walls are bowing out near the tops where the supports for the roof are tied into the walls. In addition, the air handling systems are not operating properly and there are asbestos-bearing materials in the building, although testing indicated that the asbestos is not currently airborne. These buildings and their mechanical systems are not in good condition. The lists of required repairs are pages long. The report prompted one board member to question why our children were in these buildings as recently as the 2010/2011 school year.

Complications with transportation created by the use of the DEC and MEC buildings were also briefly discussed. Start times in the schools would need to be staggered

to avoid the necessity of purchasing as many as 22 new school buses. It was disclosed that even with staggered starting times, a few new buses would need to be purchased.

At the end of the January 18 regular board meeting, three motions were floored and passed in modified form that could begin the process of repairing and reopening the MEC and DEC buildings. Board Member and former Board President Bill Stein, who has been against the reopening of these buildings, called the actions “sheer arrogance and idiotic,” especially in light of all the negative response from district residents.

Board member Chris Carroll echoed his sentiments – but they are in the minority.

This controversy over facilities actions has been exacerbated by the economic uncertainties and cutbacks in state and federal education funding. It seems clear from financial studies that the school district cannot afford to build a new stand-alone middle school at this time. Uncertainty as to the life expectancy of the existing middle school further complicates the situation. Another action at the last board meeting was to have more frequent measurement and reporting of the minute movements in the foundation of the existing middle school. If the existing middle school could be declared (with some degree of confidence) to have a safe life expectancy of 5 years, then the idea of reopening the MEC and DEC buildings could be set aside and the $10 million or more for their repair could be saved for a future new middle school building.

A debt analysis for the school district was also presented at the January 18 meeting.

It was disclosed that, depending on bond market conditions, the school district could assume up to $19 million in additional debt. Near the end of the meeting, Board Member Marianne Bulko placed a motion on the floor to have an architect determine if, within the constraints of available funding, a middle school annex building could be built, connected to the existing high school, and share, at least for now, some of the high school’s facilities (e.g., library, auditorium, swimming pool, gym).

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

RMS Band Hosts Concert to Benefit Local Museums The students in the Ringgold Middle School Band are hosting a fundraising concert on Sunday, March 11, 2012. The concert will be performed by middle school students and the Greater Monongahela Area Community Band.

Ringgold Community Ringgold Middle School band members pictured in front of one of the Donora Smog displays. groups that will benefit from the concert proceeds are: the Donora and Monongahela Area Historical Societies and the Donora and Monongahela libraries.

Recently, the RMS band students visited the Donora Smog Museum in December and the Monongahela Museum in January. They are using information from these visits to help choose musical selections to be performed in the concert.

Tickets are $5.00 and are available from the libraries and historical societies as well as the middle school band members. The March 11th concert will start at 2 p.m. in the auditorium of Ringgold Middle School in Finleyville, PA.

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February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

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Monongahela Eat'n Park Raises Money for Local Charity

Ringgold Elementary Center North Hosts Science Fair

Third grade winners were Tyler Smida, Shannon Callihan, and Kristen Gamble.

On December 1, 2011, Monongahela Eat’n Park Restaurant held a contest called “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader,” between Ringgold Elementary School North & Ringgold Elementary School South, from 5 to 9 p.m. to benefit Children’s Hospital Free Care Fund. They raised $1,626 between both schools, with Ringgold Elementary School South winning the contest.

On December 7, 2011, Monongahela Eat’n Park Restaurant held Tips for Tots at the restaurant, during which teachers from Ringgold Elementary School North waited on tables. The tips collected that evening went to the Children’s Hospital Free Care Fund. They collected $1,181. Through these functions, Eat’n Park raised a grand total of $44,730.

Fourth grade winners were Jenna and Leah Sargent, Danika Evans, and Nick Henson.

Ringgold Elementary Center North held its annual Science Fair during the week of January 9. Open to students in third, fourth, and fifth grades, 68 individual/group projects were submitted by 95 students.

Throughout the week, participants met with the judges to present their projects and perform experiments.

Fifth grade winners were Tanner Smida, Erik Judging this year was handled by Obringer, Tairen Bundy, Eli Schoedel, Trent Gerard, retired teachers Gary Anselmino Mathew Fedorek, Nick Kolano, and Ethon Hamrick.

(Science, Finley Middle School) and Ernie Koontz (Chemistry/Physics, Upper St. Clair High School). Carnegie Science Center donated free passes to the first place winners.

The 2012 winners are: • THIRD GRADE: 1st place - Tyler Smida - Chemical vs. Organic Fertilizer 2nd place – Shannon Callihan – It’s Electric 3rd place – Kristen Gamble – How Oil Spills Affect Ocean Water and Wildlife • FOURTH GRADE: 1st place – Jenna and Leah Sargent – Egg in a Bottle 2nd place – Danika Evans – Where Should You Store Your Popcorn?

3rd place – Nick Henson – Chemical Reaction Poppers • FIFTH GRADE: 1st place – Tanner Smida – Toxic vs. Non-toxic Cleaning Products 2nd place – Nicholas Kolano – Freezing Rates of Liquids, and Trent Gerard – Adhesive Tape Strength (tie) 3rd place – Eric Obringer/ Eli Schoedel – Catapult, and Mathew Fedorek/Tairen Bundy/Ethon Hamrick – Balloon Rocket (tie)

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Union Finley Area Athletic Association 2012 Spring Season Registration Registration for the Union Finley Spring 2012 Baseball and Softball season will be held at the Finleyville Community Center on Marion Ave. in Finleyville on Wednesday, February 8 from 6 - 8 p.m.; Sunday February 12, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; and Wednesday, February 15 from 6 - 8 p.m. All new players must provide a copy of their birth certificate at registration. Full uniforms will be included in the registration fee. This is a full-participation recreational league, and all kids play! The spring season starts in April. We offer tee ball, baseball, slow pitch softball and fast pitch softball. The age divisions are determined by the players age as of April 30, 2012 for baseball and January 1, 2012 for softball. Players are welcome from Union Township and ALL other surrounding communities!

SJA Goes Crazy for Basketball

Coach Pudup lays out the game plan to the Varsity Dragons.

Eighth grader Steve Ennis gets ready for a foul shot.

St. Joan of Arc has had a great start to its basketball season. The boys varsity team is a combined team with St. Katherine Drexel under the Dragon banner. Under the direction of Coach Seventh grader Joey Belmont Pudup, they are currently undefeated in looks for the open man. their section. The JV team has a winning record. Although no scores are kept at this level, the Saint Joan of Arc Instructional Basketball Team has been making a great showing. SJA Little Dribblers are also in full swing—they are also combined with St. Katherine Drexel under the Saints banner. Here, first and second graders learn the basics of dribbling and playing the game of basketball. There’s always something happening at St. Joan of Arc School. Check us out at 412-833-2433 or at mysjaschool.org.

Keystone Football Conference is History

By Paul Chasko

What was pegged as one of the weaker football conferences in the WPIAL has disappeared in an extensive realignment by the WPIAL Board of Control last month. The biggest changes have come in Class AAA and Quad-A with both going from four to three sections.

Of special interest to readers of the “Messengers” is the new AAA Section 1, Keystone Football which has yet to adopt a name. It will Season Action, 2011 hold nine teams: Albert Gallatin, Belle Vernon, Elizabeth Forward, Laurel Highlands, Ringgold, Thomas Jefferson, Trinity, Uniontown and West Mifflin. It’s very similar to the section that was in place several years back and makes a lot more sense relative to limiting team travel time. Derry, Franklin Regional, Hollidaysburg and Greensburg Salem have been relegated to Section 3. These were long drives for Mon Valley teams.

Ringgold Athletic Director Ron McMichael, in light of these changes and having to face perennial powerhouse Thomas Jefferson once again in regular season play, feels that Ringgold will do well in the new section. They’ll have to do extremely well to compete against TJ and West Mifflin next season. Five teams from each nine-team section will make the playoffs, plus one wild-card team creating a 16team field in each AAA and Quad A playoff bracket.

Also of local interest—in class A, Monessen has been moved into the Black Hills Conference along with California, Bishop Canevin and Imani Christian. They’ll now compete in regular season play with Brentwood, Carlynton, ChartiersHouston, Clairton, Fort Cherry and Serra Catholic, which fill out the new 10-team Black Hills Conference.

One other significant change is that the season openers will be conference games rather than a meaningless non-conference game.

Union Finley Midget Football Association 2012 Registration Come and join the Bear Nation! The Union Finley Midget Football Association is holding registration for returning and new football players and cheerleaders for the 2012 Season. Returning Player and Cheerleader registration will be on Sunday, March 10 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. New Player and Cheerleader registration will be Sunday, March 17 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Registrations for both dates will take place at the Ringgold Middle School cafeteria. Your age on the date of July 31 determines the age group you will be in.

Please bring copy of birth certificate. We look forward to having you join our organization. Should you have any questions, pcontact Sherrie Garry, U.F.M.F.A President, at 724-258-8816. Thank you, and see you on at registration.

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

SPORTS

SP Starlet Cheerleaders Win Championship in State Competition The South Park Starlet Cheerleading Squad members are (first row) Elise Spath, Hannah Ferguson, Olivia Stofik, Brianna Balcer, Jewels Lanetz, Cyerra Magnotta, (second row) Julia Palus, Jordan Fiorentini, Angela Carey, Meghan Smith, Alexa Greer, Kamryn Kostelnik, (third row) Sammie Denner, Anna Pavlik, Madison Fiorentini, Madison Raymond, Taylor Roche, Jessica Joos, Lexa Smith, (fourth row) Alyson Fisher, Brooke Hamilton, Zelda Antantis, Jenna Nymick, Ava deStefon, Lea Francis, and Riley Stitch. Head coaches are Kristie Berzansky and Steffani Stofik, and assistant coaches are Mickey Denner and Tara Fulton.

South Park Youth Cheerleading Association is proud to announce that its Starlet Competition Cheer Squad was named PA State Cheerleading Champions in the PeeWee Division for 2011. The girls traveled to Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Kovalchick Arena on November 19 to compete against schools from across the state. This is the first time South Park competed at the PA State Cheer Championships. This competition completed the season for the girls.

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Bethel Church League Presents 2012 Recreational Baseball League Bethel Church League Baseball welcomes all participants in the area, particularly those in the Finleyville, Union Township and Thomas areas. The Thomas Youth League has decided to play farther away for many families, so those affected are welcome to join BCL as individuals or as a group. Finleyville maintains entries in the BCL and invites all players interested to contact BCL Board Member Ray Beckinger or the UFAAA President to gain more information or to register.

UFAAA (Union Finley) Registration: • Wednesday, February 8, 6 to 8 p.m.; Sunday, February 12, 10 a.m. to noon; or Wednesday, February 15, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Finleyville Community Center, 3547 Marion Avenue.

• Ruthfred Lutheran Church on South Park Road in Bethel Park on

Sunday, January 29, from 1 to 3 p.m.

• Online, using the spring registration form downloaded from website. Games are played locally in Finleyville and Bethel Park (Simmons Field) BCL Registration includes: • Optional indoor preseason batting sessions • Uniform, including hat, shirt and socks • Good coaching (for which you may volunteer!)

• Manager/coaching training day • Lots of caring and lifelong memories.

Space is limited.

Please contact UFAAA’s Ray Beckinger to secure your spot at 724-348-6738 or email randcbeckinger@msn.com, or call BCL contact Bob Keibler at 724-5186072.

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Entertainment PUMP P U VOLU

by Mandy Withers-Kozlowski

February

American Legion 724-258-6735 Carroll Twp., Monongahela 11- Valentine’s Day Dance 8-11 pm $7 admission, Vocals By LuAnn Baltimore House 412-653-9332 176 Curry Hollow Rd, Pleasant Hills 3 - DJ Ed Lover 10 - DJ Ed Lover/Karaoke Contest 17 - DJ Ed Lover/Karaoke Contest 24 - DJ Ed Lover/Karaoke Contest Thursdays - DJ Ed Lover Sundays - Live entertainment Bootsie’s Bar 412-672-1120 699 O’Neil Blvd., McKeesport 4 - Sick Sense 18 - Weathered Soul 25 - End of View Fridays - Ladies Night w/ DJ Chris Denny’s Roadhouse 724-258-6232 • 3431 Rt136, Finleyville Mondays - Saturdays - Exotic/lingerie barmaids 6 p.m. -2 a.m.

Eck’s Restaurant & Lounge 724-310-3570 1574 Fourth Street, Monongahela 2 - White Rose Karaoke 3 - White Rose Karaoke 4 - DJ Bob 9 - White Rose Karaoke 10 - DJ Bob 11 - DJ Bob

the

ME!

16 - White Rose Karaoke 17 - White Rose Karaoke 18 - DJ Bob 21 - Mardi Gras Special 23 - White Rose Karaoke 24 - DJ Bob 25 - DJ Bob

Altman’s Tavern 412-653-6440 611 Old Clairton Rd, Pleasant Hills 3 - Shari Richards 4 - Sputzy 16 - Karaoke 17 - Occasional Reign 18 - TJ Jazz Alumni 25 - Johnny Vann

Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot!

Elrama Tavern 412-384-3630 •1520 Rt. 837, Elrama 4 - Mark Cyler 11 - DJ/Karaoke 18 - Todd Jones 21 - Fat Tuesday Bing Bash 25 - Beach Party w/ Scott Spahr 28 - Bar Bingo for Pens tickets 29 - Leap Day specials Tuesdays - Bar Bingo, 7:30 p.m.

Freddie’s II 412-833-1830 2789 South Park Road, Bethel Park Live entertainment, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

4 - Ali/Barranti Duo 11 - Rusty Biker 16 - Wine Tasting 18 - The Henhouse Roosters 21 - Mardi Gras Party with DJ Paul, 8 p.m.

25 - Desperados Wednesdays - Texas Hold ’em Tournament, 7:30 p.m.

Thursdays - Tableside Magician Jason, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Hey Andy Sportsbar and Lounge 724-258-4755 1221 W. Main St., Monongahela 3 - Bill Ali & Matt Barranti 4 - Open juke box 10 - The Gum Band 11 - Dirty Sanchez 18 - TBA 24 - TBA 25 - Refuge Thursdays - DJ Barto 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 The Hunting Lodge 724-348-7984 3529 Washington Ave., Finleyville Fridays - Free juke box, 8 pm-close Saturdays - Free juke box, 8 pmclose The Kickstand Bar & Restaurant 412-384-3080 1100 Hayden Blvd.

4 - Karaoke w/ Marty 11 - Dave Iglar Band 18 - Karaoke w/ Marty 25 - The Loco Motives King of the Hill Steakhouse Interstate 70, exit 32B, Bentleyville 1 - Rock-it Randy DJ 8 - Gil Snyder Combo 10 - DJ Jerry J 15 - Rock-it Randy DJ 17 - DJ Russ 18 - Rock-it Randy DJ 22 - Rock-it Randy DJ 24 - Rock-it Randy DJ 25 - DJ Jerry J 29 - Rock-it Randy DJ Olde Large Hotel 412-384-9950 510 Oak Rd., Jefferson Hills 3 - The Jades Old Trails 724-225-0848 669 National Pike East, Washington 3 - Monkey Junk 18 - Shovelhead 24 - Monkey Junk Pit Stop Bar and Grille 412 -384 -7487 1473 Rt. 837, Elrama Saturdays - Free juke box, 9-11 pm

Fridays - DJ Crene Rinky Dinks Roadhouse 724-228-1059 339 Amity Ridge Road, Amity 3 - Davisson Brothers Band 4 - Ruff Creek 11 - Hillbilly Gypsies & The Weed Rags 18 - Ruff Creek 25 - Chris Higbee

Sylvester & Tweeties 412-384-0800 8800 Roberts Hollow Rd., Elizabeth 9 - Karaoke w/ Rock-It-Randy 11 - Valentine’s Dinner and Dance Nite w/ Sapphire band 23 - Karaoke w/ Rock-It Randy 25 - Todd Jones, 9:30 p.m.

River House Café 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi Entertainment, 9:30 pm - 1:30 am 4 - Stonehorse 11 - Crosstown 23 - Wine Tasting 25 - Jinx

Terrace Gardens 412-233-2626 1180 Woodland Ave., Clairton 3 - Chuck Corby 10 - Ziggy Daniels 17 - Todd Jones 24 - Regular Joes Wednesdays - Karaoke with Eddie

Rockin’ Willies Roadhouse 724-745-8844 2476 Washington Road, Canonsburg Tuesdays - Jam Night with the Jam Band; all singers and musicians welcome

Three Streets Grille 724-348-8030 3540 Washington Ave., Finleyville 4 - Sea of Heads

Royal Place 412-882-8000 2660 Library Rd. (Rt. 88), 4 - Raising Mother Kane Roy’s By The Tracks 724-348-7118 3710 Rt. 88, Finleyville 3 - Bucky 10 - Bill Ali 17 - Ruff House 24 - Matt Barranti Band Wednesdays - Karaoke w/ Brett Saturdays - Karaoke w/ Rickieoke or Matt Sundays - Karaoke w/ Rickieoke or Matt Sweeny’s Steakhouse 724-929-8383 1713 Rostraver Rd., Belle Vernon 4 - DJ Stan 18 - Refuge 25 - DJ Stan Wednesdays - DJ Russ Thursdays - DJ Ben

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

The Trolley Stop Inn 412-835-9600 6247 Library Rd., Bethel Park Fridays – Magician, 7-9 p.m.

Valley Hotel 412-233-9800 1004 New England Hollow Rd., Intersection of 837/Coal Valley Rd., Jefferson Hills 4 - Locomotive Fridays - Open Stage Night, all musicians welcome

February 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

unionfinley.com 59 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

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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

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--------- AUTOMOTIVE ---------DODGE - 2001, Ram 1500 Cargo Van. 107K miles. White. Stereo, A/C. Runs solid! Great work van. Huge cargo space for hauling and storage. $2,500 firm. Call 412-760-2291. ___________________________________________________________ Mazda 6 Bumper - 2003-08 custom after market with metal grill $75. Phone 724268-0315 . ___________________________________________________________ Hyundai Accent - $4500.00. For more information, call 412-512-8437 or 412417-5948 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 724-344-7238. ___________________________________________________________ 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 412-854-5844. ___________________________________________________________ 1999 Commodore mobile home. Exc. condition. Only 1 owner - bought brand new in___________________________________________________________ 2001. Call 412-600-9061.

2008 Jeep Liberty 4x4 - 30K miles, flat tow ready, modern blue pearlcoat exterior, 3.6L V6 engine w/6 speed manual transmission,lots of extras,includes tow bar & auxiliary brake system. $20,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667. ___________________________________________________________ 2003 Hyundai Accent - lt blue/station wagon,slim type,little over 15,000 miles,new brakes and rack. Car runs excellent. $8,500 final price. Call Charlotte at 412-4175948. ___________________________________________________________ Ford Farm Tractor - 1952, 8N, 12 volts, with brush hog. $2,500. 724-348-5992. ___________________________________________________________ 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. 724348-7637. ___________________________________________________________ JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T.Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ___________________________________________________________ TOP CASH FOR CARS, Any Car/Truck, Running or Not. Call for INSTANT offer: 1800-454-6951 ___________________________________________________________ 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 ___________________________________________________________

--------- AUTO DONATIONS ---------DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation! Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up.800-771-9551 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: 1-888-416-2330 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR - HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing. Call 7 days/week. Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR SUPPORT OUR VETERANS & U.S. TROOPS ! #1 MILITARY SUPPORT CHARITY! 100% Volunteer Free same Day Towing.Tax Deductible. Call and Donate Today! 1-800-471-0538 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CANCER FUND of AMERICA to help SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS.Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 7 Days 1800-835-9372 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND of AMERICA and help end CHILDHOOD CANCER. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. 7 Days 1-800-469-8593 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK or SUV to Childhood Leukemia Foundation today.

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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. 888-475-1825 ___________________________________________________________

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

Or___________________________________________________________ e-mail to news@monvalleymessenger.com.

REACH CUSTOMERS IN THE MID-ATLANTIC STATES. Place your ad in over 5.2 million households in free community papers for 5 weeks and get the 6th Week FREE. Visit www.macnetonline.com for more details or call 800-450-7227. ___________________________________________________________

-------------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES -----------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 ___________________________________________________________ FREE book and CD reveal secret to making money in real estate without cash or credit in today's crappy economy. Supplies limited. Call 1-800-591-0848 NOW! ___________________________________________________________ NOW HIRING: Employees needed to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 Dept. MAC-6811 ___________________________________________________________ SEEKING PROFESSIONALS (FDIC Insured) Home Business Mobile Banking Platiform.

Paid Daily.Will train, a must see.Take 15 min to hear about it 214-261-5396 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- COMPUTERS -----------COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837. ___________________________________________________________ DELL LAPTOP computer, super fast, excellent condition. Internal wireless card, DVD/CD+RW. Premium software bundle. Six month warranty. Original cost: $2175.

Must sell: $399. 717 653-6314 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- 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 -----------Part time insurance sales and service position in Mon Valley area. Current PA Property & Casualty and/or Life & Health licenses preferred but not required. Salary commensurate with experience. Please fax resume to 724-258-5880. ___________________________________________________________ Caregiver needed part-time for older Finleyville woman. CNA or experienced preferred. Please call Anne at 724-348-5162. ___________________________________________________________ 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. ___________________________________________________________

MEAL COORDINATOR Immediate opening. Food service experience.

Plan & coordinate all phases of meal preparation for twice monthly free meal program. 25-30 hours per month. Salary negotiable. Reply: Peters Creek Food & Friends PO Box 37 Venetia, Pa. 15367 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. ___________________________________________________________ Belle Vernon - Salesperson - 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a highly motivated sales consultant who wants a career and not a job.The position is full time and no traveling required. Income is based on sales consultant abilities. If interested please call 724-929-5040 and fax resumes to 724-929-6855. ___________________________________________________________ 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.

DRIVERS - MATTHEWS BUS COMPANY is hiring School Bus and Van Drivers for the following School Districts: West Jefferson Hills, Peters Twp, Sto-Rox and Keystone Oaks. Pre-employment drug screening and fingerprinting are required. School Bus Training will be provided. For an application or more information, please contact 412-384-8810. EOE. 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 724348-6528.

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.

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. ___________________________________________________________ Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency seeks an experienced Tourism Sales & Marketing Manager. Successful candidate will lead all outside sales and marketing efforts of the Agency to consumer, travel trade, sports, small meeting and corporate markets,as well as assisting in daily destination marketing functions performed

by Agency staff. Extensive overnight travel is required, some weekend work also necessary. Degree and hospitality sales experience required, enthusiasm for tourism in Washington County essential. Salary, incentive bonus and benefits package offered.

Interested candidates respond immediately to info@visitwashington countypa.com or by___________________________________________________________ fax at 724-228-5514.

February 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— HELP WANTED! Experienced P/T Cook AND P/T Waitress The Hunting Lodge • 724-348-7984

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. ___________________________________________________________ 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 724348-8844. ___________________________________________________________ Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with children. Part time or full time positions available. Please call Tammy at 724348-6565 ___________________________________________________________ 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

CLASSIFIEDS

Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts.

Ability to multi-task. Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred. Will train. Call 724348-8844. ___________________________________________________________ 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. ___________________________________________________________ MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily.Get paid to shop pt/ft.Call now 1-888750-0193. ___________________________________________________________ Excellent weekly income processing our mail! Free supplies! Helping homeworkers since 1992. Genuine! 888-302-1522. www.howtowork-fromhome.com. ___________________________________________________________ Owners earn 5K a week, Off each weekend, dry van, 877-290-9492 northandsouthexpress.com ___________________________________________________________ Out of High School? 18-24 girls and guys needed. Travel all across America. Paid training, travel and lodging. 877-646.5050 ___________________________________________________________ Mystery Shoppers Needed Earn up to $150 per day. Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 888-380-3513 ___________________________________________________________ LIFE & HEALTH AGENTS TO SELL COMPREHENSIVE SENIOR PORTFOLIO. Outstanding Commission Schedule, Ongoing Lead Program. Commission Advances.

Immediate Vesting. CONTACT Chris@ManorWestMarketing.com 717-392-6888 ___________________________________________________________ AVON AGENTS WANTED! Start Your Business today. 1-800-206-0799 www.propeL92.com Seeking career-oriented professional with current PA insurance licenses for full time position. Property & Casualty license a must; willing to train for Life/Health license. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume’ to 724-258-5880.

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

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-------------- FINANCIAL / INSURANCE ------------South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at______________________________________________________________ (412) 835-4842.

CD Alternative - Current Annuity rates from 3%- 5.05% first year guaranteed dependi ng on the amount of deposit and length of contract. Call 724-731-0071. ______________________________________________________________ LAWSUIT MONEY NOW for injury/accident cases. Pay us only if you win. Quick approval. No credit check. No monthly payments. Lawyer operated. 1-877-953-8631 www.excellegalfunding.com 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.

Need Fast CASH? Short term loans up to $1500 deposited into your bank account OVERNI GHT! Call for quick approval. 877-290-0052 ______________________________________________________________ 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 1-866-7675932 ______________________________________________________________

--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS ----------Feel the difference with Nature’s Sunshine Products. Healthy Opportunities! www.mynsp.com/j robbins or call: 412-708-7329 ______________________________________________________________ ****TAKE VIAGRA/CIALIS? SAVE $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pil s, for only $99!

Cal______________________________________________________________ l now,Get 4/BONUS Pil s FREE! Your Satisfaction or Money Refunded! 1-888-796-8870 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 bacteri______________________________________________________________ al infection! Call 888-440-8352

-------------- ITEMS FOR SALE -----------Stag Rotary Treadle Sewing Machine - good condition, $25. Call 412-233-3152 ______________________________________________________________ Broyhill high back couch & chair 125.00/obo. Huge white leather chair 75.00.Brown bathroom hamper 10.00. Round oak kitchen table 35.00. Pink ottoman 25.00. Card table w/2chairs 15.00. Triple Fat Goose coat 40.00. Geniune Chinese cashmere coat 30.00.

New wave oven w/carry case, never used, 80.00. Call 724-579-2223. ______________________________________________________________ Propane Construction Forced Air Heater - with 20# propane tank. Used for only 5 hours.

Like new, $75. For more information, call 724-239-4463 ______________________________________________________________ Thomas Electric Organ - with Playmate Color Glo,rhythm volume foot pedals and bench.

Very good condition, $75. Call 724-239-4463 for more information. ______________________________________________________________ Fish Aquarium and all accessories, ready to use.$50.00.724-810-1152, call after 6:00. ______________________________________________________________ Old Tricycle - American Flyer, genuine maple wood, red and white, 18" x 17", made in USA, make offer. 724-785-4987 ______________________________________________________________ Suitcase Full of Costume Jewelry - pins, earrings, necklaces, rings, $100. 724-7854987. ______________________________________________________________ Art______________________________________________________________

by J. Girardet signed 1882 framed original print only $85. Call 724-222-3973.

Coat - Men's size 38, all weather, fur type lining and collar, light brown, new. $20. Call 724-929-3891. ______________________________________________________________

Dietary Aids Full Time

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 412-780-5998. ______________________________________________________________ Wurlitzer Church Organ - free! 2 level keyboard, floor petals, great condition, you haul.

Cal______________________________________________________________ l 724-258-9115, ask for Karen.

Stag Rotary Treadle Sewing Machine - overhauled,excellent condition.$35.Call 412233-3152. ______________________________________________________________ Bed Frame - Full size with (4) Legs and Rug Rollers. New in box. $40.00. For more informati on, call 724-684-5531. ______________________________________________________________ Cub Cadet – 12–14 HP - 40 Inch Cut comes with snow blower attachment and garden di______________________________________________________________ scs. $800 or BO. Call 724-322-2458 for more information.

CB Ham Radio – realistic, with all cords and mic. $25 Pro 20120 programmable 40 channel s. 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 724-3222458. ______________________________________________________________ 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, cal______________________________________________________________ l 724-322-2458.

Cemetery lots. Lafayette Memorial Park. Garden of Serenity. 4 lots at $5,400. Selling for $2,400. 724-938-7307.

SURREY FOR SALE! 3-Seated, Horse Drawn: $1,500. • Horse Back Riding Lessons. • Riding Horses for Sale! www.logcabinstables.com. 724787-4817.

FREE! – Upright Piano. Union Township.You haul. For details, call 724-348-7557. ______________________________________________________________ MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA MATTRESSEST-$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY LIFETIME WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800ATSLEEP1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM ______________________________________________________________

----------- ITEMS WANTED -------All tubes for radio/tv, radio tube tester and similar test equipment, and also collecting tube amplifiers by Fisher, McIntosh, Marantz, Pilot, Scott, others. 724-914-1693 or email RPESQ@YAHOO.COM. Local collector from Monongahela. ______________________________________________________________ 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. Wil 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 lo______________________________________________________________ ng distance towing. Call 412-498-1622.

WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me. Jim Gil espie at 412-979-7050 or home 724348-6203. ___________________________________________________________ JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T.Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ______________________________________________________________

February 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— YEARBOOKS "Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks1900-1988. yearbookusa@yahoo.com or 972-768-1338." ______________________________________________________________ Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ______________________________________________________________ WANTED DIABETES TEST STRIPS Any kind/brand. Unexpired up to $22.00. Shipping Pai______________________________________________________________ d Hablamos espanol 1-800-267-9895 www.selldiabeticstrips.com FAST PAYMENT for sealed, unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS-up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. Call today & ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com 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.

WANTED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. ANY KIND/BRAND. UP TO $22.00/Box. SHIPPING PAI______________________________________________________________ D. HABLAMO ESPANOL. 1-800-266-0702 www.SellDiabeticstrips.com 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 ______________________________________________________________

----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-8257233.

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.

FREE HD FOR LIFE. DISH Network! Packages starting at $19.99 for 12 months Cal______________________________________________________________ l PMG Dish for all options and details 1-877-482-6732 $$OLD GUITARS WANTED$$ Gibson,Fender,Martin,Gretsch. 1920's to 1980's. Top Dol______________________________________________________________ lar paid.Toll Free: 1-866-433-8277 CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY.Instant offer:1-800864-5784 ______________________________________________________________ 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.fi xjets.com ______________________________________________________________ ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnl ine.com ______________________________________________________________ **OLD GUITARS WANTED!** Fender, Gibson, Martin, Gretsch, Prairie State, Euphonon, Larson, D’Angelico, Stromberg, Rickenbacker, and Mosrite. Gibson Mandolins/Banjos.

1930’ s thru 1970’s TOP CASH PAID! 1-800-401-0440 ______________________________________________________________ AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available Call AIM (888) 686-1704 or visit www.fi xjets.com ______________________________________________________________

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

CLASSIFIEDS

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice.Job placement assistance. Computer available.Financial Aid if qualified.

Cal______________________________________________________________ l 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com Bundle & Save on your CABLE, INTERNET PHONE, AND MORE. High Speed Internet starti ng at less than$20/mo. CALL NOW! 800-314-9361 ______________________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid.We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960 ______________________________________________________________ CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS- up to $17/Box! Most brands.

Shipping Prepaid. FAST payment. Ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsuppl ies.com ______________________________________________________________ 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 ______________________________________________________________ DIRECTV $29.99/mo $0 Start Costs! Free HBO CINEMAX SHOWTIME STARZ! FREE HD/DVR! Free Installation! We’re “Local” Installers! 800-355-4203 ______________________________________________________________ EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business,*Criminal Justice.Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-5100784 www.CenturaOnline.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 ______________________________________________________________ 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.

Li______________________________________________________________ mited Time ONLY Call NOW! 866-944-0906 Reach over 20 million homes nationwide with one easy buy! Only $2,395 per week for______________________________________________________________ a 25 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com WORK ON JET ENGINES – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career.FAA approved program.

Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866) 854-6156. ______________________________________________________________ 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 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 ______________________________________________________________ BEDS!!! Pillow Tops, Plush, Memory Foam. 10 YEAR WARRANTIES!!! New, stil in factory plastic. FULL $179. QUEEN $199; KING $245 (Twins Available) IMMEDIATE DELIVERY!!!

CALL (412) 494-7351 ______________________________________________________________ ACR METAL ROOFING - GO GREEN - tax credits agricultural, commercial, residential.

Bui______________________________________________________________ lding 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 866-7525908 ______________________________________________________________ HEATING BILLS! Save up to 50 percent off your next heating bil . Advanced Portable Infrared iHeater® Heat 1000 sq. ft. for about 5 cents an hour! Free Shipping! Call 1-888435-0688 ______________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group,Inc.Today! BBB Accredited.Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation.866983-3264 ______________________________________________________________ DISH Network delivers more for less! Packages starting at $24.99/mo,Local channels in______________________________________________________________ cluded! FREE HD for life! Free BLOCKBUSTER® movies for 3 months.1-888-691-3801 CLARINET, FLUTE, VIOLIN, Trumpet, Trombone, Amplifier, Fender Guitar $70. ea. Cello, Upright Bass, Saxophone, French Horn, Drums $190. ea. Tuba, Baritone, Others. 1-516377-7907. ______________________________________________________________ VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg!! 40 Pil s 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement,Di screet Shipping.Only $2.70/pil . Buy the Blue Pil Now! 1-888-418-6450 ______________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 4 only 25x36, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Must Move Now! Selling for Bal______________________________________________________________ ance Owed! Free Delivery! 1-800-411-5869 x 224

------------- NOTICES ---------The Monongahela Class of 1967 is planning our 45th year class reunion in September. We are inviting anyone who would like to help in the planning of this event.

Anyone wil ing to help, please contact Kathy at 724-258-7399 or Patti at 724-782-0141.

The next meeting is on Tuesday, January 31 at 6:00 p.m. at Paul Lacko’s home on Route 136. ______________________________________________________________

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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 412-225-1664, e-mail info@ceahowpa.org or visit www.ceahowpa.org. It's simple, free and it works. Please keep coming back no matter what! ______________________________________________________________ LOST – Wedding Ring. Men’s. White Gold. Lost while driving along Rt. 88 near Mingo Church Road, Finleyvil e.Very sentimental and important. Reward offered. If found, please cal______________________________________________________________ l 412-760-2291.

ATTENTION Diabetics with Medicare Join America`s Diabetic Savings Club and receive a FREE diabetic bracelet. Membership is FREE. Qualify for meter upgrades, prescri______________________________________________________________ ption delivery and free giveaways. Call 1-888-474-3420 Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $49 extra for screen or motherboard replacement.CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 866-7525908 ______________________________________________________________ (4632 US RT 40, Claysville) $244,900 - Commercial Building, Offices, Warehouse, 5000+ SF.All Equip.included! Make offer!! Lisa Mull, Prudential Preferred Realty 412-8547200 ext 228 or 724-678-2454. ______________________________________________________________ HEATING BILLS! Save up to 50 percent off your next heating bil . Advanced Portable Infrared iHeater® Heat 1000 sq. ft. for about 5 cents an hour! Free Shipping! Call 1-888435-0688 ______________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group,Inc.Today! BBB Accredited.Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation.866983-3264 ______________________________________________________________ Business Owners! What do you get when you place an ad in 360+ publications, eight states, and 5.3 mil ion circulation? RESULTS! Call 800-450-7227 or visit www.macnetonlin______________________________________________________________ e.com GOT BIDS?We provide local government with a way to find competitive providers at a cost effective price. Targeted Print and Online Solutions by State and Region. www.midatla______________________________________________________________ nticbids.com WANTED ALL MOTORCYCLES — PRE 1985. Runing or not. Cash paid. 315-569-8094 ______________________________________________________________

------------- PETS ---------New Zealand White Rabbits - $25 each for pet or for meat. Call 724-239-2196. ______________________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer. Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted dogs!

724-249-5777. ______________________________________________________________ Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care,daily cleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month.

(724) 348-8028. ______________________________________________________________ ANGELS FOR ANIMALS.Collecting Aluminum Cans for an on-going fundraiser.(Please no steel, no pie tins, and no aluminum foil.) Also selling Enjoy & Entertainment Books for $25.00 each. For pick up of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724-941-5737. ______________________________________________________________ Dog Training: If your dog isn’t coming to you, you should be coming to me. AKC, Schutzhund, canine good citizen and therapy dog experienced - contact karyn727@comcast.net or 412-855-4678. ______________________________________________________________ Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth,excellent care,daily cleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month.

(724) 348-8028. ______________________________________________________________

------------ REAL ESTATE -------Mobile 2 Bedroom Home - $18,250.Live in West Mifflin or move to a different location.

Terrific condition, air conditioning, breakfast bar and stools, kitchen table and chairs, kitchen is equipped with electric stove, dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator. Neutral carpeting throughout home, some draperies and bay window in kitchen. Has a covered porch.

Call 412-466-4817 to see. ______________________________________________________________ House for rent - Monongahela, 822 Marne St.,2 bedroom,very clean,big 2 car garage, very nice porch, possible rent to own, no pets, $600 per month. Call 412-296-1999. ______________________________________________________________ Mobile home for sale - 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, mobile home and 3 lots for sale. Located at 2 Wood Alley in Carroll Twp. Off Rt. 837, Monongahela. Owner financing considered. $35,000. Call 724-350-5983.

FOR SALE – Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534.

Apartment for rent - 3 bedroom downstairs apartment located at 230 Donnan Ave., Washington, gas furnace and/or electric baseboard heat, large corner yard, $500 per month plus utilities. First and last month's rent required. Call 724-258-9115. ______________________________________________________________

RENTAL PROPERTY FOR SALE - Charleroi, 2-unit, side by side duplex.

Covered front and back porches. Huge backyard. Across from playground.

813-815 Crest Ave. Newly remodeled. New kitchen, cabinets, flooring, new carpet, freshly painted throughout. Updated electric service and wiring. New water heaters. Both units are fully rented with long-term tennants. Solid cashflow. Great opportunity! Asking $59,900. Call 412-760-2291.

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 Deni seMarasco@HowardHanna.com or call 4125617400. ______________________________________________________________ Apt for Rent - 2 BR,2nd flr.,country,private,by itself.Laundry rm.& porch.Lots of parkin______________________________________________________________ g. Updated. No pets. $525+. Call (412) 384-5406.

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 Ivil today at 724-483-1600 or email him at lease@genindustri______________________________________________________________ es.com.

Building for Rent – 40x60 commercial bldg for rent at 780 Bentleyvil e Rd., Charleroi, PA.______________________________________________________________ Located just off I-70, Exit 32B, Bentleyvil e. 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 412-3844667. ______________________________________________________________ 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 ki______________________________________________________________ tchen and carpeting. Big yard. Call 724-348-5162.

Charleroi Sale or Lease - Renovated 3-Story Building.Commercial lease income.Also, turnkey bar/restaurant. Call: 724-531-1175. ______________________________________________________________ Office Space For Rent – Finleyvil e.1,300 square feet.Former site of Healthy Directions. $800 + Electric. 412-999-7163.

FOR SALE. Investment Property; Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534.

MONONGAHELA - For rent,one,two bedroom apartment,complete with appliances,laundry facility, etc. Secured locked building, quaint and quiet. Close to bus line. One bedroom parti al y 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.

Monongahel a. 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 wil 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 843-236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ______________________________________________________________ New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negoti able. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773. ______________________________________________________________ Available Now!!! 2-4 Bedroom homes Take Over Payments No Money Down/No Credi t Check Call 1-888-269-9192 ______________________________________________________________ Stop Renting Lease option to buy Rent to own No money down No credit check 1877-395-0321 ______________________________________________________________ ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide.Low down payment.

Call now 800-250-2043. ______________________________________________________________ ABSOLUTE FARM LIQUIDATION! Jan 21st! 10 acres - $29,900 25 acres - $49,900.

Huge stream, pond, fields, big timber, across from public land! 3 hrs NY City & 1/2 hr Albany! Call to register NOW & get $1,000’s in Buyer’s credit! (888) 738-6994 www.

NewYorkLandandLakes.com ______________________________________________________________

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CLASSIFIEDS

*FARM LIQUIDATION SALE! Jan 21st! *40 acres - HOUSE/BARN - $149,900 Handyman farmhouse, huge barn, pond, stream! 3 hrs NY City! 1/2 hr Albany! Call NOW to register & recei ve HUGE buyers' credits! (866) 495-8733 ______________________________________________________________ CATSKILLS MINI-FARM! 23 acres - $199,900 Handyman farmhouse, huge barns, gorgeous meadows, mtn views, mins. to skiing. Less than 3 hrs NY City! Reduced to 1/2 market______________________________________________________________ value! (888) 738-6994

------------ SERVICES ----------BABYSITTER / NANNY For Summer - Let your kids sleep in & play in the neighborhood.

American Red Cross Certified, Experienced, Reasonable, References. Kelsey: 724-3486528. ______________________________________________________________ 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 wil not teach you. Lessons are only $18 per______________________________________________________________ session. Please contact Chad at 724-747-8722, or email cecampsey@gmail.com.

General Hauling - Driver and 7 ton dump truck for hauling dirt, stone and etc. Local area onl______________________________________________________________ y. For more information, call Denny at 724-348-5162.

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.

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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.

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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/.

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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.

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South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns.FREE E-Filing.10 Years Experience.Located in South Park.Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842 ______________________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-8257233. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

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.

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. 724-348-6837.

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.

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.

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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.

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----------- VACATIONS ---------------Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach wil provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfrontcondo rentals.com/Paradise Resort. htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843-236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ______________________________________________________________ WEEKEND GETAWAY! Deep Creek, Maryland. 5 Bedroom Home for Rent. *Ski Wisp*, Call Dave at 412.427.3691 for more details! ______________________________________________________________

READER ADVISORY: Reader Advisory: the National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment” but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home.

Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars.

800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

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.

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----------- TIMESHARES ---------------Ask yourself, what is your TIMESHARE worth? We wil find a buyer/renter for CA$H NO GIMMICKS JUST RESULTS! www.BuyATimeshare.com Call 888-879-8612 ______________________________________________________________

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 February 10)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the Union-Finley Messenger.

When is the City Mission’s 18th Annual Sweet Sunday Dessert Festival?

What is the name of the Eagle Scout who was recognized at the South Park Board Meeting?

What is the date Monongahela Valley Hospital is inviting the community to preview its new surgical suites?

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 January Pizza Puzzler winners!

BARBARA GILMOUR - Washington • DOE HODINKO- Clairton

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Think it’s easy to dodge millions of flu germs traveling at 100 miles per hour?

Protect yourself with a flu shot.

Healthy Directions’ flu vaccine protects against the influenza A and B viruses and H1N1.

Only $25

Major insurance accepted

Walk-in

Finleyville Giant Eagle, 3701 Route 88, Finleyville, PA, 724-348-6699 Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; (Lab opens at 7 a.m. Monday-Saturday) Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

mvhhealthydirections.com