Union Finley Messenger March 2012

March FREE! FREE!

Vol. 8, Issue 10

MARCH 2012

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com New Bethel Park High School Opens

Local High School Boys’ Basketball Wrap-up

Page 55

Page 57

Ringgold High School Presents “On The Town�

Page 52

“ 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

Sonshine Tree Preschool to Build Playground Honoring Joey Parrish

South Park Lions Bingo Set for March 24 The annual Chuck Peternel Memorial South Park Lions Club 4,000-Point Bingo is set for Saturday, March 24 at 7:15 p.m. at the Library Fire Hall, 6581 Library Road. The Lions are again teaming up with the South Park Hockey Boosters to host the Bingo. Besides Bingo, multiple door prizes will add to the excitement of the evening. The doors will open at 5 p.m., and Early Birds will start at 7:15 p.m. The $20 per-person ticket fee includes eligibility for many door prizes and bingo materials for all games, adding up to a 4,000point giveaway. Extra bingo packages will be available for purchase. For tickets and information, call 412-835-7114 or 412-655-3971, or see any Lion Member or South Park Hockey Booster. All Lions proceeds from the Bingo are donated by the South Park Lions Club to Lions International Charities, as well as national and local organizations and families in need.

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The Sonshine Tree Preschool has established a fund designated to purchase a playground fire truck and firehouse similar to the one shown in the accompanying photo.

This fire truck is being purchased in honor and memory of 5-yearold Joey Parrish. Joey was a student at the preschool in 2011 when he lost his battle with cancer this past December. He brought joy to all who knew him and is greatly missed. Knowing he enjoyed fire trucks, the preschool has decided to place this new fire truck playground equipment in his honor. If you would like to help, please send your tax deductible donation to â&#x20AC;&#x153;LBC/Sonshine Tree Preschoolâ&#x20AC;?; 81 Walter Long Road, Finleyville, PA 15332 and designate the funds to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fire Truck.â&#x20AC;?

If you would like more information about the Sonshine Tree Preschool, please visit our website at www.sonshinetreepreschool.com. The preschool is currently enrolling students for the 2012 - 2013 school year. For more information, please contact our preschool director, Rhonda Barner, at 724-348-1620.

Places To Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Local News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Municipal News . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Business & Merchant . . . . . . . . 30 Ask The Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Kids & Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Death Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Home & Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Local Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Food & Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

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

MARCH 1

MARCH 8

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

LAPSIT STORY TIME – Monongahela Area Library, 11 a.m. Introduction to the library for children 12 to 24 months to help build language skills and offer socialization with other mothers and toddlers. To register, call 724-258-5409.

MARCH 1-3

MARCH 9

ON THE TOWN – Ringgold High School auditorium, March 1–2, 7 p.m.; March 3, 2 p.m.

Leonard Bernstein’s musical featuring such classic hits as “New York, New York,” “Lonely Town,” “Some Other Time,” and “I Can Cook Too.” All seats are $5.

ST. PAUL’S FISH FRY – St Paul’s Anglican Church, Monongahela, 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available.

For more information, call 724-258-7792.

SUNNY BRIDGE NATURAL FOODS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION – Sunny Bridge Natural Foods, Speakers, samples, prizes. For more information, call 724-942-5800.

MARCH 2 FREE BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS – Peters Township Recreation Center, first Friday of each month, 8:45 – 10 a.m. For more information, call 724-745-6100.

ST. PAUL’S FISH FRY – St Paul’s Anglican Church, Monongahela, 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available.

For more information, call 724-258-7792.

ELIZABETH UNITED FISH FRY – Elizabeth United Methodist Church, every Friday during Lent. Lunch is served 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., and dinner 4 – 7 p.m. Dine-in or take-out. For faster service, call ahead for take-out at 412-384-7050.

ST. BENEDICT FISH FRY – St. Benedict the Abbot Church, All Fridays in March, except Good Friday. Eat in or take out. Dinner 4 – 7:30 p.m. Fish Fry Lunch is served 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

MARCH 3 GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTH – St. Francis of Assisi Church ball fields, Finleyville, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Girl Scout Troop 54031 will hold a drivethru cookie booth sale.

MARCH 4 SPAGHETTI DINNER – Pleasant Hills Borough Building Community Room, 1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Held by Pleasant Hills Lion Club. $7 for adults; $4 for children. Take-out service available. Bring donations of non-perishable food. To learn more, call 412-653-4220.

ADULT EDUCATION LECTURE SERIES – Beth Israel Center Synagogue, History, religion, politics and demographics of Afghanistan. For more information, call 412-655-2144.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTH – St. Francis of Assisi Church ball fields, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Also March 3; March 10–11 are rain dates if needed.

MARCH 5 MONONGAHELA DONORA AREA LIONS CLUB MEETING – Hoot Owls Athletic Association, New Eagle, 6:30 p.m. Call Lion Jim at 724-258-7230 for more information.

MARCH 7 BLOOD DRIVE – Saint Francis of Assisi, Finley Hall, Finleyville 1 – 6:30 p.m. To register, call Kathy Pitzer at 724-348-5361.

ELIZABETH UNITED FISH FRY – Elizabeth United Methodist Church, Elizabeth, will have fish frys each Friday during Lent. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., and dinner is from 4 – 7 p.m. Dine-in or take-out. For faster service, call ahead for take-out at 412-384-7050.

ST. BENEDICT FISH FRY – St. Benedict the Abbot Church, Peters Township. All Fridays in March, except Good Friday. Eat in or take out.

Dinner will be served from 4 – 7:30 p.m. Fish Fry Lunch is served 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

MARCH 10 GREATER PITTSBURGH HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOP AND CURRICULUM FAIR – South Hills Bible Chapel, McMurray, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Keynote speaker, learning sessions, vendors and used curriculum sale. For more information, visit www.wix.com/snsadams/gphwa.

FLEA MARKET – VFW Post 1409, Monongahela, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Glassware, toys, clothes, books, Christmas and household items, knickknacks, craft supplies, and more. For more information, call 724-258-3013 or 724-258-7476.

MASSAGE THERAPY – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Ave., West Mifflin, starting at 12 noon.

Full body massages for $1 per minute; you must make an appointment. Email Maria at massagelady833@gmail.com, or call 412-996-8962.

DANCE – American Legion, Monongahela, 8 – 11 p.m. Evening of fun and good music from Laurel Valley Country Band. $7 per person. For more information, call Luann at 724-258-6735.

MEN’S CULINARY CLASSIC – Washington County Agricultural Fair and Expo Center, Hall #1, 6 – 9 p.m. Amateur chefs share tastings of their specialty dishes, and compete for the “People’s Choice” award. $15 in advance and $20 at the door for adults, $7 for children under age 12 and children age five and under are free.

ART SHOW AND SALE RECEPTION – Lois Guinn Framing & Art Gallery, McMurray, 12 – 3 p.m. Features the artists of the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts. The show runs from March 10 through March 24.

WINTER CARNIVAL – South Hills Assembly of God Church, Bethel Park, 2 – 5 p.m. All proceeds go to help us rescue a child and build a well in Africa. For more information, call 412-835-8900.

TASTE OF TRAX – Trax Farms, Finleyville ( 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. A day of free sampling of Trax specialties. Numerous vendors will also showcase their great food.

MARCH 11 FUNDRAISING CONCERT – Ringgold Middle School Auditorium, 2 p.m. Hosted by Ringgold Band students, who will perform with the Greater Monongahela Area Community Band.

Tickets are $5 and are available from the libraries and historical societies and band members.

SPRING FLING WINE EVENT – Trax Farms, 2 – 4 p.m. Tickets $20; call 412-835-3246, ext.

114 to order. For more details, go to www.traxfarms.com/events.

MARCH 13 SOUTH HILLS COIN CLUB MEETING – Bethel Park Presbyterian Church, 8 p.m. For more information, please call 724-984-6611.

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— ANTIQUES APPRAISAL – Mt. Vernon of South Park, 1400 Riggs Rd., 1:45 – 4:15 p.m. Come join professional appraiser, Jim Gillespie. Appraisals given on a first-come first-served basis; time and space is limited.For more information, call 412655-3535 or visit www.mtvernonofsouth park.com.

TAKE-OUT MENU – Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God, Whitehall. Haluski, meatless vegetable lentil soup, and a traditional wedding soup with chicken and meatballs. $5 a quart with two dinner rolls. The Sisters Craft Shoppe will also be open. For more information, call 412885-7232 or visit www.osfprov.org.

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25TH ANNUAL CALENDAR PARTY – Doubletree Hotel, Greentree (formerly the Greentree Radisson), noon. Luncheon, cash bar, and gift auction with over 100 baskets. Prizes are spectacular. $30/person. Tickets can be reserved by calling the school at 412-833-0233.

SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA REGISTERED NURSES CLUB MEETING – Hamilton Presbyterian Church, Bethel Park, 9:30 a.m.

Mark Davis will speak on Celiac Disease. All registered nurses are welcome. Contact Judy at 412 980-5185 for more information.

SIMULCAST FINANCIAL WORKSHOP – Crossroads United Methodist Church, Bridgeville campus, doors open at 12 noon and broadcast is from 12:45 to 6 p.m. By money expert Dave Ramsey. The Total Money Makeover LIVE event is the largest event on personal finance in the U.S. Simulcast from Orlando. Register at www.crossroadsumc.org/bridgeville-campus.

WII DANCE CHALLENGE – Monongahela Area Library, Monongahela, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. For children in grades 1 – 5 p.m. For more information, please call the library at 724-258-5409.

MARCH 16 ST. PAUL’s FISH FRY – St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St., Monongahela, 11 a.m.

– 6:30 p.m. all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

ELIZABETH UNITED FISH FRY – Elizabeth United Methodist Church, Elizabeth, will have fish frys each Friday during Lent. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., and dinner is from 4 – 7 p.m. Dine-in or take-out. For faster service, call ahead for take-out at 412-384-7050.

ST. BENEDICT FISH FRY – St. Benedict the Abbot Church, O’Brien Hall, Peters Township.

All Fridays in March, except Good Friday. Eat in or take out. Dinner will be served from 4 – 7:30 p.m. Fish Fry Lunch is served 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

HEALTHY CONNECTIONS FREE CONFERENCE & FAIR – South Hills Assembly of God Church, Bethel Park, 9 a.m. – 12 noon. Four tracks will be presented: Senior Living (maintain your brain, senior resource help, communicating w/dementia patients), Personal Best (untangling relationships, overcoming anxiety/depression, financial health), Marriage and Love (five love languages, communication, conflict resolution), and Parenting (child development stages, creative discipline, boundaries w/kids). For more information, call 412-835-8900 or visit www.southhillsassembly.org.

UKRANIAN EGG DYE – Peters Township Recreation Center, 700 Meredith Drive, Venetia, 9 a.m. – noon. Fee: $5 resident/$8 non-resident plus material fee of $15. For more information, contact Lisa Whittaker at 724-942-5000.

MARCH 17 ROAST BEEF DINNER – Windover Hills United Methodist Church,South Park, 4 – 7 p.m. Cost is $8, adults; $4, kids ages 5 to 12 THE 7TH ANNUAL FINLEYVILLE PUB CRAWL - 8.00 p.m. Participating establishments include Peters Creek Pub, Roys by the Tracks, The Hunting Lodge, American Legion, Finleyville Moose, The Hackett Club, and Three Streets Grille. Bus shuttle service available.

MARCH 18 LADIES LUNCHEON – South Hills Country Club, Whitehall, doors open at noon, lunch served at 1 p.m. Chinese auction prizes and delicious cakes. $22 per person and include lunch, a uniquely designed table and favors, and a fashion show. For more information, contact Chellie Romano at 412-655-0394 or by e-mail at gjwhf3@gmail.com.

MARCH 19 WOMAN’S RETREAT – Nativity Parish in South Park, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Features noted spiritual writer and speaker Paula D’Arcy, who lost her husband and daughter in an automobile accident as a young wife. Cost is $25 and includes lunch.

To register, call 412-215-7743.

MONONGAHELA DONORA AREA LIONS CLUB MEETING – Campa’s Restaurant, 664 McKean Ave., Donora, 6:30 p.m. Feel free to join us to see what the Lions are all about, or call Lion Jim at 724-258-7230 for more information.

®

MARCH 23 ST. PAUL’S FISH FRY – St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St., Monongahela, 11 a.m.

– 6:30 p.m. all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

ELIZABETH UNITED FISH FRY – Elizabeth United Methodist Church, 317 Second Avenue, Elizabeth, will have fish frys each Friday during Lent. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., and dinner is from 4 – 7 p.m. Dine-in or take-out. For faster service, call ahead for take-out at 412-3847050.

ST. BENEDICT FISH FRY – St. Benedict the Abbot Church, O’Brien Hall, Peters Township.

All Fridays in March, except Good Friday. Eat in or take out. Dinner will be served from 4 – 7:30 p.m. Fish Fry Lunch is served 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

TIM SOLOBAY ROAST/FUNDRAISER – “The Senator Tim Solobay Roast: Fireman Under Fire!”, Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe, 5:30 – 10:30 p.m. Dinner and an auction including signed guitars from Kenny Chesney. Tickets are available at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum and are being sold individually ($150) or by tables of eight ($1,000). For more information, visit www.patrolley.org.

MARCH 24 PANCAKE/SAUSAGE BREAKFAST – Venetia Heritage Society is sponsoring a pancake/sausage breakfast from 8 am – noon. Adults $6, and children under age 10 are $3. Contact Esther for directions or more information at 724-348-6504.

MONTHLY CARD PARTY – Odd Fellows Hall, Gastonville, 6 – 9 p.m. Second Wednesday of each month. Sponsored by the Mon Valley

Rebekah’s. Light lunch served. Public welcome.

ANNUAL DINNER – Bethel Park Community Center. Hosted by Bethel Park Republican Committee. Speaker will be John Maher, State Legislator and candidate for Auditor General of PA. For more details, visit bpgop.com.

BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY – Wrights United Methodist Church, 788 Venetia Road, Venetia. To register, call 724-348-5718.

MARCH 24 SP LIONS CLUB BINGO – Library Fire Hall, doors open at 5 p.m., early bird games, 7:15 p.m.

Annual Chuck Peternel Memorial South Park Lions Club 4,000-Point Bingo. Hosted by the Lions and South Park Hockey Boosters. $20 perperson. For tickets, call 412-835-7114 or 412655-3971, or see any Lion member or Booster.

MARCH 27 LECTURE – Palace of Culture: Andrew Carnegie’s Museums and Library in Pittsburgh, Peters Township Public Library, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Register to attend by emailing programs@ptlibrary.org, or call 724-941-9430.

MARCH 28 WEST JEFFERSON HILLS HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING – Jefferson Hills Borough Building Community Room, Jefferson Hills, 8 p.m. Joyce Schmidt will present on antique toys owned by Thomas Blatchford, collector.

WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL OF PITTSBURGH PROGRAM – Peters Township Public Library, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Register to attend these programs by emailing programs@ptlibrary.org, or call 724-941-9430.

MARCH 29 LECTURE – Linking Up: Planning Your Trafficfree Bike Trip Between Pittsburgh and Wash–ington, D.C. Peters Township Public Library, Peters Township, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Practical advice on planning a traffic-free bike trip between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. To register, emailing programs@ptlibrary.org, or call 724-941-9430.

MARCH 30 ST. PAUL’S FISH FRY – St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 130 W. Main St., Monongahela, 11 a.m.

– 6:30 p.m. all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or take-out available. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

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

MARCH 30 ELIZABETH UNITED FISH FRY – Elizabeth United Methodist Church, 317 Second Avenue, Elizabeth, will have fish frys each Friday during Lent. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., and dinner is from 4 – 7 p.m. Dine-in or take-out.

Call ahead for take-out at 412-384-7050.

ST. BENEDICT FISH FRY – St. Benedict the Abbot Church, O’Brien Hall, Peters Township.

All Fridays in March, except Good Friday. Eat in or take out. Dinner will be served from 4 – 7:30 p.m. Fish Fry Lunch is served 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

MARCH 31 BIG BAND DINNER DANCE – Westwood Golf Club near Kennywood Park. Doors open at 5 p.m. with a cash bar, sit-down dinner at 6 p.m. and dancing at 7 p.m. Features the 17-piece Graham Grubb Orchestra with vocalist Gerri Hall, basket auction and a 50/50. Tickets are $40 per person. Call Jack Seckel at 412-655-7500, ext. 338. Call early for tickets.

FLEA MARKET – Finleyville Community Center, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Held by Finleyville Food Pantry. Tables are available for $10 each. Chinese auction and food available. For more information or a table, call 724-348-7821.

PSYCHIC FAIR – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Ave., West Mifflin, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Several different readers and massage therapist. Sale of metaphysical items, jewelry, stones.

SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER – Broughton Fire Hall, South Park, 3 – 7 p.m.

Hosted by Pleasant Hills Rotary. Cost is $8 for adults, and $4 for children 12 or under. Tickets may be purchased from Pleasant Hills Rotary members or at the door. Take-out service and drive-thru will be available. Any questions will be answered by Bill Young at 412-848-9158.

SAFE SITTER CLASS – McNary Conference Center, Canonsburg General Hospital, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. $45. To register, call1-877-284-2000.

SELF ESTEEM AND BODY TRANSITION WORKSHOP – The Chapel of Oneness, West Mifflin, 1 – 5 p.m. Cost of $35. For more information, visit www.empoweringyourdream.com or email info@empoweringyourdream.com.

EASTER EGG-STRAVANGANZA – Crossroads Ministries,10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. For families with children ages 1 through grade 5. Games and cake walk, 10 to 11 a.m. in the gym; crafts and puppet show, 11 a.m. – 12 noon in the church; Easter

NEED A NEW ROOF?

egg hunt, 12 noon in the gym. For more information, visit our website at www.crossroadsministries.com.

BAKE SALE – Jefferson United Methodist Church, Jefferson Hills, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Candy, cupcakes, cakes, pies and apricot, nut and poppy seed rolls will be for sale. You can pre-order Easter rolls: apricot and nut rolls are $9; poppy seed rolls are $10. Pick up date is March 31 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. To order, call 412 653-3222, option #3.

BUNNY HOP – Peters Township Recreation Center, Venetia, 10 a.m. – noon. Games, crafts and a visit from the bunny. Fee: $5 resident/$7 non-resident (ages 2 and up.) Call 724-942-5000 for more information.

BREAKFAST WITH EASTER BUNNY & EGG HUNTS – Trax Farms. Also Sunday, April 1; Good Friday, April 6; and Saturday, April 7.

Breakfast starts at 9:30 a.m. with hunts starting every 30 minutes from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Breakfast cost is $8. Egg hunts are $7. For more information, call 412-835-3246.

MYSTERY DINNER THEATER - DIAL M FOR MOTHER - The Valley Inn Volunteer Fire Dept.

Auxiliary is hosting a Mystery Dinner Theater at the Valley Inn Social Hall on March 31st, 2012.

The title is "Dial M for Mother". The cost is $25.00 per person and must be paid in advance.

For more information, please call 724-258-2180.

MARCH 31-APRIL 1 TROLLEY RIDE WITH THE EASTER BUNNY – Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, near Canonsburg. Rides depart every 45 minutes from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last ride at 4 p.m.). Also Friday–Saturday, April 6–7. Children can see live rabbits, and participate in an egg hunt. $9 for adults; $8 for seniors; $7 for children (ages 1–15); free for children under 1; and $35 family rate (2 adults/seniors and 4 children). For more information, visit www.patrolley.org or call 724228-9256. Group rates also available.

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

March 24 & 25

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Resident of Nottingham Says Ringgold Board Is Slighting the American Dream Eighty Four Resident Questions Logic of Recent School Board Decisions Dear Editor, As a resident with three children in this district, I am deeply concerned about the path the current school board has chosen to take. I can't find, anywhere, an explanation as to why the school board appears to be ignoring the fact that the structural engineering firm has put their name on the line, literally, by signing a letter that clearly says the current middle school is “structurally safe”. The taxpayers of this district deserve an explanation for this disregard of the facts. Additionally, if MEC and DEC do NOT pose any health dangers, why were they ever closed and why were residents of those areas so adamantly against a recent plan (that has since been abandoned) to put those kids back into those schools and use Carroll as the middle school?

The fact that the board appears to be planning to close a school that apparently doesn’t NEED to be closed, at least not in the immediate future makes no sense. I agree that the middle school is not likely to be a viable building long term, but the apparent urgency to get out of there and into, as I understand it, buildings that have many problems of their own doesn’t seem logical.

I understand that options are limited by our district’s financial resources, but as I understand it, even the “bare bones” repairs to those schools are quite costly and not likely to last long term, possibly necessitating more costly repairs in the not-so-distant future. I realize that even costly repairs are “cheaper” than building a new school, but given that we have been assured

that the current middle school is safe, it makes more sense to keep the kids where they are and plan financially for a longer-term alternative rather than throwing money at bad alternatives with no long-term value.

If I truly thought the middle school was unsafe, I would not send my kids there - I have a child there now and one who will be going there in the next few years. I am deeply concerned about reports I've heard of children who had persistent respiratory problems at MEC and DEC and how they are now doing much better, indicating that there is an air quality problem in those buildings.

As a secondary concern, I hear that many parents are planning to either cyber school their kids or move out of the district if this plan goes through.

Not everyone has those options, of course, but if those who do take advantage of them, that, as I understand it, takes revenue out of the district, as the district is billed for each child using the PA Cyber program.

Additionally, many are concerned that this decision makes our district less desirable and may ultimately result in further decline in tax revenue.

Those of us who don’t have every option open to us feel powerless to protect our children from being pulled out of schools in which they are currently safe and happy and, in some cases, bus them for an hour or longer to schools that are in worse shape and might possibly cause them respiratory problems.

If any of you can explain the logic in these decisions, please do.

Michelle Niziol, Eighty Four, PA

Dear Editor, By the time this goes to print, the Ringgold School Board will have made its decision, not just on the fate of the Ringgold Middle School building but the fates of our children’s safety and well-being.

But wait, by law the vote will not take place for three months after the public hearing. Three months’ worth of discussion and deliberation won’t be happening. The board majority has had their minds made up on this issue since long before they were sworn into office. This waiting game is nothing more than that, a game the board must play out.

The thought that these representatives have a mandate to fulfill is frightening. Where would our country be today if our elected officials did not

change their votes when presented with new evidence or conflicting ideas?

Indeed, that is the whole premise of our American Dream, that we will embrace new ideas and concepts. The Ringgold School Board is our small part of the whole picture.

The continued efforts to show the value in building a new school or a complete, to-code renovation for MEC have been in vain. The board is blatantly painting a poor financial picture and insisting that the needs of the people are being met, and that they won’t have to raise taxes. The taxes are still coming, folks, they will hit just about the time that we elect a new majority.

Gail Glaneman, Nottingham Township

Disappointed Mom Asks, Why Are We Closing Finley?

Dear Editor, The purpose for my letter is not to restate the facts, as we are already aware that the “simplicity” of these facts is not enough to make our school board realize there is no justification and or evidence at this point to close Ringgold Middle School (RMS/Finley). Having said that, we ask them…Why are we closing Finley?

This decision is being made by individuals with a purpose, perhaps political gain, some profit to be made, whatever that may be—only time will tell us for sure. All we know is that RMS is being forced to close its doors not because it is unsafe, as that was proven in the engineers’ report. So, again we ask, why are we closing Finley?

Have they forgotten this is a great school with great teachers, a foundation of learning for our children. Not too long ago, this school, Finley was CHO-

SEN to be the safest building for our children, what changed? The engineers’ report hasn’t changed, still safe. The only change that has occurred is we have a new school board, perhaps with their own agenda. If a new middle school is what we need, why sink money into two other buildings (MEC, DEC), that will eventually be closed again? Do what is right—have some money first, and keep Finley open until we can afford a new building.

By closing Finley, we are asking for displacement of teachers and children.

Has the board considered what our children want and need??? There will be endless costs to fix these buildings, longer travel times and, of course, HIGHER TAXES! Can you afford to give up more money? So, we ask, why are we closing Finley?

Michele Abel, Finleyville

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

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

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Union Township Parent Proposes Solution to Ringgold Dilemma Parent of Special Needs Child Will Fight for What’s Best for Ringgold Students Dear Editor: When I spoke at the open podium on February 21, 2012 at the Meeting of the Facilities, Planning, Transportation, and Construction Committee of the Ringgold Board of School Directors, Mr. Charles Smith repeatedly attempted to interrupt me. He apparently thought what I was trying to contribute was not “facilities” related. As President of Ringgold School Board, and also a selfproclaimed safety engineer holding a master’s degree, one should be stunned to witness time and again such a deficiency of listening skills. That being said, had he the courtesy to listen to me speak he would have heard my concern as a parent—how the conditions of two 80+-year-old “mothballed” buildings could potentially affect the health of our students. Because he didn’t take the time to hear me clearly, I would like to take the time to repeat myself for him.

As a parent of a current sixth grade student who will deliberately be placed in such appalling, unhealthy conditions, I am outraged. As a parent of the same sixth grade student who has Hypertrophic Cardio Myopathy, Long QT Syndrome, Noonan’s Syndrome and a multitude of other health issues, I am terrified. By law, I will be required to send my child to buildings that are old and in poor condition and may contain environmental conditions that will inhibit learning and pose increased risks to the health of not only my special needs child but the health of all of our children and staff.

I recognize that the current middle school is not a safe environment for the long term and that a solution is needed, but the engineers to whom Mr. Charles Smith said, “I pay you a lot of money,” currently deem it safe. Twice during the meeting, I directly asked, “What’s the rush?” and twice my question went unanswered. If the sky is falling at RMS and cars are going to be swallowed into sink holes within a year, then I understand the urgency. However, as far as I know, such is not the case. Would it be reasonable to ask this Board to slow down and educate themselves on all of the facts prior to spending thousands of our tax dollars to clean and prep these “mothballed” buildings? If the Board doesn’t know what the true costs are going to be, how can it possibly begin to decide that reopening these buildings outweighs the benefit of one new building?

There are several members of the Board attempting to intimidate and use bullying tactics at these public meetings. Ringgold has a zero tolerance bullying policy, which should also apply to the School Board members. Within six days, I’ve witnessed attempts to intimidate Mr. Carroll, Mr. Hayden, Mrs. Long, and Mrs. Ott as well as myself and others. As one can see from such public outcry, we will not tolerate any bullying nor will we be intimidated. We will continue to fight for what we believe is best for our children and our tax dollars.

Sincerely, Pamela R. Myers

7th Annual Finleyville Pub Crawl Set for March 17 The 7th Annual Finleyville Pub Crawl will be held Saturday, March 17, 8:00 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Finleyville Volunteer Fire Department.

Participating establishments include Peters Creek Pub, Roys by the Tracks, The Hunting Lodge, American Legion, Finleyville Moose, The Hackett Club, and Three Streets Grille.

Bus shuttle service will be available from 8:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m., from Finleyville to the Hackett Club and Peters Creek Pub.

Dear Editor, The bussing of the Ringgold students has never been the issue, as reported again in an article on Union Township wanting to succeed from Ringgold in the Observer Reporter.

They appear to want bussing to be the issue—it gets a bigger rise out of the Donora parents whose children are already bussed to Finley. Kudos to the Observer for dividing the district with inaccurate statements.

The problem is and has been the minimum $10 million price tag placed on a bare-bones renovation of MEC and DEC; that is a minimum of $10 million dollars for repairs that will make two schools that are currently closed viable for 5 years. Parents in this district are only trying to avoid the same problems with the poor school conditions returning again in 5 years, as there is no long-term solution on the horizon.

I am a resident of Union Township with a child in Gastonville, now RESN. I would gladly secede into another district so my child is not subject to the endless stream of poor ideas and wasteful spending proposed by this school board—a district where money is not squandered on repetitive architect studies and looks at the money on hand and finds a logical solution. Many of the districts surrounding us are in similar situations with aged schools; the difference is how the situations are resolved.

Spend money on real solutions not quick fixes, come up with a plant that

is the least disruptive to the education of students and think about the teachers. There are folks calling those who are complaining "rich whiners" and they could not be more wrong. Most of us in no way would be considered “rich.” We are working parents, we provide for our families as best we can, and we want an education for our children, not chaos.

Would you like me to come up with what I think a logical solution would be—money where my mouth is?

• Break ground at Finley and begin construction of an addition no later than April.

• Schedule the addition to be completed by August.

• At the start of the school year, move a section of classrooms into the new addition.

• Renovate the now-empty section of classrooms.

• Repeat the process until school is remodeled and ready for another 20 to 30 years.

This would allow the district to stagger costs. This also allows minimum impact to teachers and student body. No need to open closed schools, split students over and over, purchase additional busses, stagger start/end times, this list goes on and on…

Right now, are you saying my idea won’t work? What are your ideas?

Let’s put all ideas, good or bad, on the table.

Wendy Gabauer, Union Township

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Union-Finley Football Assoc.

Proud of 2011 Accomplishments Dear Editor, This letter is in response to Paul Chasko's article Mon Valley Midget Football League: A Season to Remember which appeared in the December 2011 edition of your publication. After reading the article and fielding many very angry phone calls, emails and texts from families within our organization, we, the Union Finley Midget Football Association Board, felt it necessary to respond.

The article seems to encourage divisiveness between the Ringgold and Union Finley organizations, and beyond that, seems to paint Union Finley in a bad light. If you are going to publish "A Season to Remember", then why not recap the exciting season that the participants of the Mon Valley Midget Football League experienced this season? With the success that both the Ringgold and the Union Finley organizations had this year, it could have been a great way to recognize the players and cheerleaders who participated. Instead, the article suggests that Union Finley should dissolve itself. Unfortunately, 2011 saw the demise of two organizations; to suggest further dissolution is disheartening.

This league is a club league, and thankfully none of the organizations within the league are affiliated with any school districts, even if competing under the "name only." Our organization is one of the cornerstones of this league, having just completed its 38th year of competition. With nearly 200 players and cheerleaders from Finleyville, South Park, Monongahela, Nottingham Twp., Peters Twp. and Bethel Park, Union Finley was founded on the premise of bringing communities together.

This league is about teaching the game of football and providing an opportunity for all kids to play. Sending half of the players to Ringgold - where the number of players equals ours - leaves twice as many players standing on the sidelines NOT playing, and the other half with nowhere to play.

This article, coupled with the negative

article that appeared in the October 2011 edition, prompted the need for this letter. Imagine how a Union Finley player or family member felt reading that "Ringgold ended up with the best players of both Donora and Monongahela and left the less talented players for Union Finley or other franchises to absorb .. " That is not something that anyone should be publishing in regards to youth sports. Ironically, the article doesn't mention that Union Finley teams were victorious in the Tiny Mite and Termite Divisions.

Our players are proud to be Bears, and they want and will graduate as Bears.

Those who attend Ringgold Schools had the option to play for the Rams this past year, and CHOSE to play for the Bears, and talent had nothing to do with their choice. It's about pride, doing things the right way, for the right reasons. It's about being a Bear.

The Union Finley Midget Football Association Board Members Publishers Note: The Mon Valley Midget Football League (MVMFL) is a fantastic organization for boys in the Mon Valley who intend to continue playing football at the JV and Varsity levels. Football is a highly competitive sport and at times can also be very polarizing when winning soon becomes paramount.

Late last summer the Union Finley Bears, The Donora Dragons and the Monongahela Wildcats went through a trying period that upset some coaches, parents and team administrators. Change is never easy. Reporting the news on any fallout from some of these changes is also not easy. The Union-Finley Messenger and Mon Valley Messenger regrets any interpretation of our articles that came across as negative towards any of the players, coaches or parents. This was not our intent.

Our best wishes go out to everyone in the MVMFL, and we look forward to publishing your news and photos this coming fall season.

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Lois Guinn Framing & Art Gallery Hosts Member Show for Upper St. Clair League for the Arts Lois Guinn Framing & Art Gallery at 3339 Washington Road, McMurray, is hosting an art show and sale featuring the artists of the Upper St Clair League for the Arts. The show runs from March 10 through March 24. Come for the opening reception on Saturday, March 10 from 12 - 3 p.m. to meet with the artists and enjoy refreshments. Lois Guinn Framing & Art Gallery is honored to show, and offer for sale, the art of our talented local artists. Come to see the variety of art and styles represented, and take home a piece of original art for your home. Upper St Clair League for the Arts, founded in 1974, is a group of South Hills residents dedicated to promoting an interest in all forms of art. They offer classes and workshops for those interested in exploring their talents. Contact Carrie Hutsko at 724-941-5001 for more information on the USCLA art show and sale at Lois Guinn Framing & Art Gallery in McMurray.

Community Action Southwest Offers Housing Counseling Workshops in March Community Action Southwest (CAS) will host two housing counseling workshops in March.

A Predatory Lending & Foreclosure Prevention Workshop will be held Tuesday, March 20 from 2 to 6 p.m. at CAS’ office located at 150 West Beau Street in Washington. This workshop is designed to assist families who are facing problems in securing or maintaining their homes through loan modifications or refinance options. The workshop will provide tools to effectively negotiate through loss mitigation for existing homeowners, which includes services to victims of predatory lending.

A Pre-Home Purchase Workshop will be held Tuesday, March 27 from 2 to 6 p.m. also at the agency’s office. Topics covered will include evaluating home purchase readiness, credit report analysis and repair, budgeting for mortgage payments, improving money management skills, selecting a real estate agent and the importance of home inspections.

Both workshops will be offered in partnership with the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency and facilitated by certified housing counselors.

Pre-registration is required for both workshops. For more information, call 1-877-814-0788, ext. 431.

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

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LOCAL NEWS

Community Action Southwest to Offer Free Income Tax Preparation and Filing to Qualified Area Residents Community Action Southwest (CAS) will once again offer free, basic, online income tax filing assistance to qualified working taxpayers in Washington and Greene counties who made less than $50,000 a year in 2011, regardless of the number of persons living in their household.

CAS operates its VITA Program in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service and through funding from the United Way of Washington County and the Greene County United Way. Additionally, the majority of volunteers who assist the taxpayers to file their taxes are students from Washington and Jefferson College and Waynesburg University. Volunteers are trained to assist taxpayers to receive the appropriate tax credits for which they eligible such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, a federally funded tax credit for low-income working individuals and families.

VITA sites will be open until April 5 in both counties. Appointments are necessary and will be available each week in Washington on Wednesdays from 1– 9 p.m. and in Waynesburg on Thursdays from 1 – 9 p.m. Satellite sites will also operate in Carmichaels, Donora, Canonsburg and Monongahela on various Tuesdays throughout tax season. To make an appointment, to get more information or to find out if you qualify, please call Jonathan at 724-225-9550, ext. 421.

Volunteer Opportunity in Peters to Help Cancer Patients Spend an hour or a half-day volunteering with the Wrapped in Love and Satchels of Caring Foundations at the Outpatient Care Center in Peters Township on Tuesday, March 6 from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers will be able to learn about the two foundations providing gifts to patients undergoing cancer treatment. Satchels of Caring Foundation provides unique handmade satchels filled with therapeutic and inspirational gifts, and the Wrapped in Love Foundation provides handmade quilts, crochet/knitted and no-sew fleece blankets to patients at local facilities. Volunteers are welcome to join these organizations at the Outpatient Care Center - Peters Township, 160 Gallery Drive, McMurray, to help make these one-of-a-kind gifts for patients. Light refreshments will be served. For more information about these caring organizations, visit www.satchelsofcaring.org or www.wrappedinlovefoundation.com.

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

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

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

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

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

All rights reserved.

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

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

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

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LOCAL NEWS

LESS

Road Traveled The

By Wild Willy Frankfort

St. Patrick’s Day… Bacon and Beer!

If you are a loyal and diligent reader of this column, you know that I write few of them dedicated to a monthly holiday. However, if you think back on the over 100 articles I’ve written, you will remember that I have dedicated a few to beer, the consumption of beer, beer making, and taverns. I feel it necessary to include March’s holiday, St. Patrick’s Day, and the association of beer… and bacon! What could be more festive or appropriate? This is a holiday that honors the Irish, one of the finest nationalities in the world; beer, the greatest beverage in the world; and bacon, the unequivocal finest meat in the world. ”Ah, but William “Wild Willy” William,” you say. “What does bacon have to do with Frankfort St. Patrick’s Day?” “Ah-ha!”, say I. “If you are into traditional Irish meals, bacon should be your meat of choice!”

Tradition has it that the day of March 17 is part of the Lenten season and should be enjoyed by attending masses in the morning and celebrating and feasting in the afternoon. The drink of choice, beer, and the food of choice, bacon and cabbage, are to be consumed throughout the festivities. Most folks associate fish with the Lenten season, but in Ireland where fish is often consumed daily, the church deemed traditional Irish bacon appropriate for the festivities. Irish bacon is similar to Canadian bacon in consistency but has a thin layer of fat around it that adds to the flavor when cooking. It is first cut into slabs, then fried and browned on both sides, then boiled with cabbage. It’s seasoned with salt and pepper, but in my family we always added a little cider vinegar for taste. It should be consumed with good pub ale or dark stout and a crusty sourdough or sweet pretzel-type bread. As you all know, I’m really into traditional meals and I enjoy beer with my meals and bread, but all of them should taste good together and meld into… well, a good nap. If you combine all of these things, the result should knock you on your kiester!

It’s strange how the Irish and St. Patrick’s Day have influenced our lives. On this specific day, you’re identified as “Irish” just for wearing green. In America, more beer is sold in context with this celebration than any other day… except for Super Bowl Sunday. This year, March 17 falls on a Saturday. Enjoy the day, but be safe.

Don’t drink and drive. (That’s why it’s called a pub “crawl!”) Remember that I have given you all another reason to enjoy bacon and beer together, and if you see this crusty old curmudgeon at the end of the bar, raise your glass high and offer a toast!

But never do it with light or green beer, or the gods will strike you!

The Finleyville Flaming Fedoras The Finleyville Flaming Fedoras enjoyed a delicious lunch at the new Castle Tavern South in Library.

They were celebrating Groundhog Day, February 2. Six more weeks of winter?

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LOOKING FOR SUMMER WORK? LIFEGUARD AT THE YMCA! Lifeguarding can be incredibly rewarding. It’s important to recognize aspects of the job that aren’t included in the Red Cross certification course. The Mon Valley YMCA is offering two lifeguarding courses: March 3, 10, 17 and 24 from 8 a.m.

- 2 p.m.; April 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.. Cost for Members: $250.

Cost for Non-members: $270 Please contact Amy Bozek at 724-483-8077 or amy@monvalleyymca.org with questions. Happy lifeguarding!

South Park Marching Band Boosters Host Ladies Luncheon The South Park Marching Band Boosters are pleased to announce its third annual Ladies Luncheon, "Girls Just Want to Have Fun!" The event will be held on Sunday, March 18 at the South Hills Country Club. Doors will open at noon, allowing plenty of time to take chances on the wonderful Chinese auction prizes and delicious cakes. Lunch will be served at 1 p.m. Tickets are $22 per person and include lunch, a uniquely designed table and favors, and a fashion show featuring the members of the marching band modeling designs from The Bridal Place in Finleyville, Tuxedo Junction in South Hills Village and hair by Philip Pelusi. All proceeds from this event will benefit the South Park Marching Band. If you would like more information on how to get involved, donate, or to purchase tickets, contact Chellie Romano at 412-655-0394 or by e-mail at gjwhf3@gmail.com. As another fund-raiser, the marching band will be selling Sarris Candy just in time for Easter. Please see a band member or call Judy Donatelli at 412-655-8065.

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Upcoming Events at Peters Township Recreation Center

Dr. Rob Rhoderick Announces Candidacy for Legislator

For more information, contact Lisa Whittaker, Peters Township Parks and Recreation Department, at 724-942-5000.

SPECIAL EVENTS • How To…Ukranian Egg Dye Come learn how to create these rare and beautiful eggs on Saturday, March 17, from 9 a.m. to noon. Fee: $5 resident/$8 non-resident plus material fee of $15 paid to instructor on the day of class. Participants also should bring two to three eggs at room temperature (not empty). Deadline for sign up is March 5.

• Bunny Hop Saturday, March 31, 10 a.m. to noon. Fee: $5 resident/$7 non-resident (ages 2 and up.) Pre-registration not required. Call 724-942-5000 for more information.

SENIOR PROGRAMS • AARP Senior Drivers Safety Program (for ages 50 plus) Classes review rules of the road, accident prevention and overcoming the effects of aging on driving performance. Must show proof you completed the previous eighthour class to attend the four-hour refresher class.

• Senior Movie Night Seniors age 50 and over are invited to the Recreation Center for Movie Night. Preregistration required. April 14 from 5-7 p.m. Fee: $2 (no charge for movie, fee is to cover snack). Deadline to register is April 9.

• Senior Luncheons Luncheons are held at the Recreation Center on the second Wednesday of each month from 12 - 2 p.m. We ask that you bring a covered dish and share with others. The second hour we provide entertainment or a lecture.

Dr. Rob Rhoderick, Owner/Operator of Rhoderick Chiropractic Clinic, Legislative Assistant for State Representative Bill Kortz and a Board Member of the Elizabeth Forward School District, has announced that he will seek the Democratic Nomination for State Representative in Pennsylvania’s 39th District.

Rhoderick also announced that he was stepping down from his position with Representative Kortz in order to run for office. The primary election will be held on Tuesday, April 24.

Dr. Rhoderick intends to take his small busiRob Rhoderick ness experience, his commitment to his community and his knowledge of legislative issues with him to Harrisburg. In addition to his professional experience, Dr. Rhoderick has also served as the Past President of the Charleroi Rotary Club, as a member of the Teamsters Local 205 and is currently the Democratic Chairman of Elizabeth Township.

“I believe that my commitment to my community is my greatest asset,” said Rhoderick. “I have lived in this district my entire life, and I am raising my family here. I want to be a part of making this region great again. I will work hard to create jobs and improve our schools.”

Dr. Rhoderick began his small business in 1997, and knows firsthand the challenges that business people face. He began serving as an unpaid legislative assistant to Representative Kortz in 2009 and became a paid LA in 2012 to better understand and help craft solutions to the challenges people in the Mon Valley are facing. Dr. Rhoderick ran and won a position on the Elizabeth Forward School District because he felt the cuts to public education were unfair and he wanted to do something about it.

“People in the Mon Valley have had to endure a lot of tough times, but we all know that with hard work we can bring this region back,” said Dr. Rhoderick, “I support the economic growth and workforce development that the Marcellus Shale industry offers. With strong leadership, we can turn this economy around.”

A lifelong resident of 39th District, Dr. Rhoderick grew up in Forward Township and now resides in Elizabeth Township. He is the father of two sons and is an active sports enthusiast who enjoys fishing and target practice.

Saint Francis of Assisi Blood Drive Is March 7 Mark your calendar! Saint Francis of Assisi will hold a blood drive on Wednesday, March 7 from 1 to 6:30 pm at St. Francis of Assisi – Finley Hall, 3609 Washington Avenue, Finleyville, just off Route 88 across the parking lot from the new church. To schedule your life-saving appointment, please call Kathy Pitzer at 724-348-5361. Walk-ins will be welcomed. Please bring ID with you on the day of the blood drive. Proper ID is required to donate blood. A Central blood Bank or military ID, driver’s license or passport are all approved forms of ID. A birth certificate, along with a picture ID that includes the donor’s full name also will be accepted.

E-mail your News Items to news@unionfinley.com

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LOCAL NEWS

March Events at Monongahela Area Library The following events will take place at the Monongahela Area Library, 813 West Main Street. For more information, please call the library at 724-258-5409.

In the activity room: Coupon Club meets Tuesdays, March 13 and 27 at 5:30 p.m. (coupons are also available for exchange at the circulation desk during library hours) Writer’s Group meets Wednesdays, March 7 and 21 at 6 p.m.

Library Trustees meet Wednesday, March 14 at 6 p.m.

Friends of the Library meet Monday, March 19 at 6 p.m.

Children’s Events: Wii Dance Challenge for children grades 1 – 5 on Tuesday, March 20 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

The Monongahela Area Library is answering the requests of area mothers by adding a Lapsit Storytime to the children’s programming. The program is intended as an introduction to the library for children 12 months to 24 months. Parents or grandparents/caregivers who bring the children will be active participants with the tots, guiding them through the finger plays, songs and activities. Each meeting will last only 20 -25 minutes, but time is planned into the schedule for free play or parents to interact and share.

The first meeting is on Thursday, March 8 at 11 a.m. Participants are asked to bring a blanket or comforter so that they can sit on the floor with the children, and pre-registration is required.

In addition to the new offering, a story time for children ages 30 months through 5 years is offered on Wednesday mornings at 11 a.m.

Gill Hall VFC Seeks Crafters and Vendors for Spring Show The Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Company located on Gill Hall Road in Jefferson Hills will have its annual Spring Craft and Vendor Show on Saturday, May 5. We are looking for crafters and vendors. The price per table is $25 with an additional $5 if electric is needed, plus a donation for the Chinese auction. The show will start at 10 a.m. and end at 3 p.m. Please email Patti Felix at pfelix453@aol.com or call at 412-655-9285 with any questions for request for application. No information, only booths.

Seventh Annual Men’s Culinary Classic Benefits Community Action Southwest The Seventh Annual Men’s Culinary Classic will be held on Saturday, March 10 from 6 - 9 p.m. at the Washington County Agricultural Fair and Expo Center in Hall #1. Amateur chefs – men only – share tastings of their specialty dishes, and compete for the “People’s Choice” award in several categories. The evening also includes a Chinese auction, raffle, and entertainment for the whole family. Tony DePalma from WJPA radio will also interview chefs and talk to guests throughout the evening as they sample food and vote for their favorites. Some of the top competitive categories each year are chili, appetizers, entrees, desserts and homemade beer. Anyone who is interested in competing as a chef and needs more information should contact the marketing office at 724-225-9550, ext. 408.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door for adults, $7 for children under age 12 and children age five and under are free. All proceeds from the event support Community Action Southwest and its efforts to help low-income individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency. For more information about Community Action Southwest, please visit our website at www.caswg.org.

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Senator Tim Solobay to Be Roasted Roast Will Benefit Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Pennsylvania State Senator and Canonsburg Fire Chief Tim Solobay will be the subject of a roast March 23 to benefit the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, Washington.

The event, titled “The Senator Tim Solobay Roast: Fireman Under Fire!”, will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m.

“Tim Solobay has been a great friend of the museum for many years and has a great sense of humor,” said Scott Becker, executive director of the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. “Tim’s been a public servant in many capacities, both in the public safety area as well as representing our region as Tim Solobay state representative and now as state senator.

He’s been such an advocate for the entire area, especially the trolley museum, that we thought this would be a great opportunity.”

A distinguished panel of “roasters” has been assembled for the event, including John Bevec, State Senator Jay Costa, Mark Solobay, Canonsburg Mayor David Rhome, State Representative Harry Readshaw, past roastees J. Barry Stout and J. Bracken Burns. Sr. Tripp Kline of The Three Rivers Auction Company will be the auctioneer, and Jeff Kotula, president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, will serve as Master of Ceremonies.

Senator Solobay recently stated, “I have been attending events at the museum for almost 15 years and am really pleased with the progress I have seen. I will say that my buddies are having too much fun anticipating this event, and I think I might end up with more arrows than General Custer!”

Proceeds from the roast will benefit the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. The museum was founded almost 60 years ago to preserve and interpret Pennsylvania’s Trolley Era. It provides a living history complete with trolley rides and a collection of 50 historic streetcars from throughout Pennsylvania and beyond.

Range Resources is the presenting sponsor, and the media sponsor is the Observer-Reporter. Corporate sponsors so far include Chesapeake Energy, Hilton Garden Inn, 84 Lumber Company, Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Alpha Energy Resources. Sponsorships are still available. We thank these sponsors for making this event possible!

Entertainment will be provided by noted entertainer Bobby Shawn. The roast will include dinner and an auction including signed guitars from Kenny Chesney and other famous artists as well as sports memorabilia and tickets to sports and entertainment events.

Tickets are available at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum and are being sold individually ($150) or by tables of eight ($1,000). Tickets include hors d’oeuvres, dinner and entertainment. There will be a cash bar. Part of the ticket price is a tax-deductible contribution. For more information, visit www.patrolley.org, email vsm@pa-trolley.org or call 724-228-9256.

Upcoming Events at Trax Farms Trax Farms is located at 528 Trax Road, Finleyville. For more information on any of these events, call 412-835-3246 or visit www.traxfarms.com. Hours are daily 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Spring store hours starting March 12 are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Breakfast with Easter Bunny & Egg Hunts Easter Breakfast with the Bunny & Easter Egg Hunts at the farm start on Saturday, March 31 and continue on Sunday, April 1; Good Friday, April 6; and finally, Saturday, April 7. The breakfasts start at 9:30 a.m. with hunts starting every 30 minutes from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Hunts are divided into three age-appropriate groups and patches. Breakfast with the Easter Bunny is $8. Each child will receive a filling breakfast of cereal with milk, mini donuts, orange drink and a fresh apple.

The child will then visit the bunny, make a fun craft, and enter our coloring contest. For parents, the garden café will be open with fresh coffee, muffins, bagels and more available. Egg hunts are $7. Tickets can be purchased over the phone or at our customer service desk starting March 5.

Spring Fling Wine Event Come join us Sunday, March 11 from 2 - 4 p.m. and learn which wines pair best with your spring meals. Guests will be served a light appetizer with each of their wines as a representative from Arrowhead Wine Cellers discusses how to accentuate spring dishes with the perfect wines. A wine gift basket will be raffled off to attendants. Tickets cost $20 and must be ordered by March 7. Call 412-835-3246, ext. 114 to order your tickets now. Proper ID required to enter the event.

Lenten Dinners Lenten foods are available 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. Salads and soups also available. Don’t forget to order your Easter ham early!

Taste of Trax Features Radio Disney Road Crew Show Trax Farms is opening up its pantry for Taste of Trax, a day of free sampling on Saturday, March 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Numerous vendors will showcase their great food. Try our fudge and other baked goods. At noon, Radio Disney’s energetic Road Show will perform an entertaining family-friendly show. Free Disneythemed scavenger hunt where participants can win a brand new Ipod Shuffle!

Dave Ramsey Simulcast Financial Workshop Scheduled for March 17 Come to Crossroads United Methodist Church in Bridgeville to see a live simulcast with money expert Dave Ramsey. The Total Money Makeover LIVE event is the largest event on personal finance in the U.S. Why? Because it's a high-energy presentation on financial principles that will change your life and it's fun! The LIVE simulcast from Orlando, FL takes place at our Bridgeville campus on Saturday, March 17. Doors open at 12 noon; broadcast is from 12:45 to 6 p.m.

Register at http://www.crossroadsumc.org/bridgeville-campus.

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March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL NEWS

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SOUTH HILLS FRIENDS OF THE MONTOUR TRAIL UPCOMING MEETINGS

AARP Tax Assistance and Tax Forms at PT Library

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 Rd., South Park. The March 2012 meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 13, and the April meeting will be on Tuesday, April 10.

A blue heron fishes Piney Fork Creek Individuals interested in the Montour Trail are from the Montour Trail in South Park encouraged to attend.

Township, February 12.

Additional information concerning the trail may be obtained at www.montourtrail.org.

Activities concerning the entire Montour Trail and links to the sites of other western Pennsylvania trails are also posted on the website.

In partnership with the AARP, tax assistance will be available at the Peters Township Public Library each Thursday through April 12. AARP Tax-Aides will provide this free service to help low- and moderate-income taxpayers who are age 60 years and older.

Appointments may be scheduled by calling 724-941-9430 or by visiting the library circulation desk. At the time of registration, the library will provide you a list of the forms eligible for preparation by the AARP Tax-Aide consultant, as well as a list of items you will need to bring when you arrive for your personal tax preparation session. It is recommended you visit the library to pick up both of the lists before your scheduled appointment.

As a community service, the library participates with the IRS and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to provide both federal and state tax forms for library patrons. To access federal forms, visit www.irs.gov; for help with federal tax questions, please call 1-800-829-1040; for help with federal tax forms and publications, please call 1-800-829-4059; and for help with state tax questions, please call 1-717-787-8201.

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Automotive

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Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Reopens March 30 After Winter Break The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum begins the 2012 season on Friday, March 30. The museum’s spring hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (last tour and ride at 3 p.m.) on Fridays and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (last tour and ride at 4 p.m.) on Saturday and Sunday. Tours begin on the hour with the Trolley Era orientation film, followed by a four-mile ride on an antique trolley and a guided tour of the Trolley Display Building, which houses nearly three dozen streetcars from Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and more.

Visitors may also view the “Streetcar Suburbs” photo exhibit and browse the museum store. An extended hourlong “Behind the Scenes” Trolley Display Building tour is offered once daily at 1 p.m. for an additional $4 fee (tour is suggested for adults). Operating streetcars include the museum’s 100-year-old open air trolley, car #1758 from Rio de Janeiro in Brazil; the “Streetcar Named Desire” from New Orleans; the beautifully restored Pittsburgh low-floor car 4398; as well as other vintage streetcars from Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

The museum continues its popular “Operator for an Hour” program, offered once a month April-November. The program allows participants to experience living history by operating an antique streetcar, including cars that ran in Pittsburgh. Also available are rentals of the museum’s new Events and Education Room for birthday parties, including the Mr. Conductor children’s parties, showers, anniversaries, business meetings, and company picnics. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for all audiences and ages.

Spring special events include Bunny Trolley, which runs March 31-April 1 and April 6-7. The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum offers educational programs for preschoolers to adults and always welcomes new volunteers. Those interested in educational tours or volunteer opportunities should contact the Lynne Thompson, Educator & Volunteer Coordinator, at educator@pa-trolley.org.

The museum is located at 1 Museum Road in Washington. For more information, visit www.patrolley.org, call 724-228-9256, or e-mail vsm@pa-trolley.org.

St. Katharine Drexel School Nativity Calendar Party The planning for Nativity’s 25th Annual Calendar Party is underway.

Mark your calendars, and join us for this year’s event on Sunday, March 18. The famous women’s-day-out fundraiser will be held at the Doubletree Hotel in Greentree (formerly the Greentree Radisson) with doors opening at noon. The day includes a hot luncheon, cash bar, and gift auction with over 100 baskets. Coordinators have been shopping since last year’s party ended, and prizes are spectacular.

This fundraiser benefits the students and families of St. Katharine Drexel School. Admission is $30/person. Tickets can be reserved by calling the school at 412-833-0233. We hope you’ll join us for a fabulous afternoon.

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Pleasant Hills Lion Club Spaghetti Dinner - March 4

Shauna D'Alessandro to Run for Pennsylvania’s 39th Legislative District

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 in inquiring about membership, may call 412-653-4220.

With the help of dedicated friends, grassroots supporters, and campaign volunteers, businesswoman Shauna D’Alessandro filed nominating petitions with more than 1,275 signatures for the GOP nomination on the ballot for Pennsylvania’s 39th Legislative District. In securing her place, she continues her commitment to making the District a better place to live and work, grow great jobs with benefits for working families, and provide a high quality education for our children.

“As a small business owner and CPA, I understand the challenges that small businesses face,” said Shauna D'Alessandro D’Alessandro. “I intend to advocate for smarter, simpler, and fairer tax policies that promote economic growth, job creation, and relief from unnecessary regulations.”

D’Alessandro added, “Having spent over eight years in service on my local school board, I also understand public education and believe strongly in local control. I have effectively allocated scarce resources to keep taxes low without compromising the educational excellence that our school district’s residents have come to expect.”

D’Alessandro is a 33-year resident of the 39th Legislative District, having lived in both Jefferson Hills and South Park. She has been married for 33 years to her husband, Ernie, and has three adult children. She is a member of St. Thomas a’ Becket Catholic Church.

St. Benedict the Abbot Church Hosts Family Lenten Fish Frys St. Benedict the Abbot Church in Peters Township invites you to our annual Family Lenten Fish Frys Fridays, March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 in O’Brien Hall.

Dinner will be served from 4 to 7:30 p.m. and will be eat-in or take-out. We will not have a Fish Fry on Good Friday. We will also have our Lenten Fish Fry Lunch, which includes a fried fish sandwich combo (sandwich, fries, cole slaw), fried fish sandwiches (only), and our weekly soup specials. Our lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will also be eat-in or take-out.

St. Benedict Church is located South of Bridgeville & Boyce Road, or north of Donaldson Crossroads, off of Rt.19 to Valley Brook Road, left on Friar Lane, and look for the red church sign.

March Events at Peters Township Library The following programs will be held in March at Peters Township Public Library.

Register to attend these programs by emailing programs@ptlibrary.org, at the library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Palace of Culture: Andrew Carnegie's Museums and Library in Pittsburgh Tuesday, March 27, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh Program - Wednesday, March 28, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Linking Up: Planning Your Traffic-free Bike Trip Between Pittsburgh, PA and Washington, D.C. - Thursday, March 29, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Friends of SP Library Accepting Donations for Spring Book Sale It’s not too soon to make plans to attend the Annual Spring Book Sale held by the Friends of South Park Township Library. Hope to see you at the Community Center, 2575 Brownsville Road in South Park Township beginning Thursday evening, April 19 from 6 to 8 p.m.; 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., with Friends providing the bag for you to fill with anything at the sale. Donated items can be brought to the South Park Township Library beginning March 24.

Girl Scout Troop 54031 Drive Thru Cookie Booth Sale Girl Scout Troop 54031 will hold a drive-thru cookie booth sale on the following dates: Saturday, March 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, March 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain date/if needed) Sunday, March 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain date/if needed) Booth will be located in the parking lot of St. Francis of Assisi Ball Fields, Finleyville, State Route 88 across from Ringgold Middle School.

All eight cookie varieties are available for $4 per box, cash only.

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Take a Trolley Ride with the Easter Bunny at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

Washington City Mission Hosts 18th Annual Sweet Sunday

The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum kicks off the 2012 season with Bunny Trolley starting March 31. Hop on over for a day of family fun and take a ride with the Easter Bunny on an antique restored trolley! Children will be able to see live rabbits from Washington County’s 4 Leaf 4-H club. Also, children can make a springtime craft and participate in an egg hunt. Visitors may also take a second trolley ride on the Easter Shuttle and tour the Trolley Display Building, which houses more than 30 streetcars.

Rides with the Easter Bunny depart every 45 minutes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last ride at 4 p.m.) Saturday and Sunday, March 31-April 1, and Friday and Saturday, April 6-7. The museum is closed Easter Sunday. Kids can also enjoy coloring, Thomas and Chuggington play tables, complimentary popcorn and pink lemonade, and the museum’s play trolley, car #225. Guided tours of the restoration shop and Trolley Display Building, which houses close to three dozen streetcars, will be available. Visitors can also view the Trolley Era orientation film and the “Streetcar Suburbs” photo exhibit.

Admission rates are $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $7 for children (ages 1-15), free for children under 1, and $35 for a family (2 adults/seniors and 4 children). For more information, please visit www.patrolley.org or call 724-228-9256. Group (20 or more) rate also available.

Record crowds packed the Hilton Garden Inn Main Ballroom at Southpointe on Sunday, February 19 from 1-6 pm to celebrate the 18th annual Sweet Sunday, from which proceeds benefit the ministries of the City Mission, southwest Pennsylvania’s Regional Homeless Shelter. Food and goodies galore to satisfy any sweet tooth possible were available at nominal costs Peters Township Newcomers & Neighbors Michelle for sampling and take out. People’s Rouillard, Donna Sherman, and Michele Blosel Choice and Judges awards were given for serve up Rice Krispy Treats on a Stick. the Best Dessert in Youth, Amateur, and Professional categories and for Best Decorated Booth. Continual entertainment, large auction baskets, and appearances by the City Mission Huggie Bear and Washington Wild Thing made an enjoyable afternoon for all in attendance while helping to better the lives of others.

The 2012 winners include: Best Bentleyville Leo Club members Ella Decorated Booth, Bentleyville Leo Club; Schaltenbrand, Merritt Heinrich, and Hunter Weaver sold out of their Peanut Butter First Place Youth, Bentleyville Leo Club, Wonders before the afternoon ended.

Peanut Butter Wonders; Second Place Youth Chartiers Crossroads Church Youth, Buckeyes; Third Place Youth, Avella Area High School National Honor Society; and Judges Choice, Bentleyville Leo Club, Peanut Butter Wonders. Amateur Winners were First Place, L. A. Sweets, White Almond Wedding Cake with Raspberry Crème Filling; Second Place, Peters Creek Baptist Church, Cupcakes on a Mission; Washington County Third Place, Lea Seder and Friends, No-Bake Commissioner Larry Maggi and Cookies; and Judges Choice, Peters Creek Baptist Mrs. Maggi enjoy the afternoon out with granddaughter, Ava. Church, Cupcakes on a Mission. Professional Winners were First Place, The Springhouse, Lemon Bars; Second Place, Bethel Bakery, Mini Cupcakes; Third Place, Hilton Garden Inn-Southpointe, Mini Sensations. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS Visit our website at www.unionfinley.com for more photos at this event.

Wietrzykowski Accepted to Edinboro University Kalee Wietrzykowski of Finleyville, daughter of Michael Wietrzykowski and Lisa Mincone, has been accepted to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. She currently attends Ringgold Senior High School. She will attend Edinboro in September 2012 with a major in criminal justice.

Kalee Wietrzykowski

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Peters Township Council Infuriated by New Shale Gas Drilling Law

By J.R. Brower

Members of Peters Township Council are in a furor over the passage of Marcellus Shale gas drilling legislation, House Bill 1950, which they say takes control of zoning authority over drilling away from local municipalities. The bill, also referred to as gas impact fee legislation, was passed by the state Senate on February 7, cleared the state House on February 8 and was signed into law by Governor Tom Corbett on February 13. On the same day, Peters Township Council began discussing the real possibility that they will band together with other communities to challenge the new law in court.

At risk is the township’s gas drilling ordinance passed in August, which limits drilling as a conditional use in parcels no less than 40 acres. The new legislation stipulates only 4 acres. The township ordinance also calls for road bonding with designated truck routes, restrictions on noise and pollution, fencing requirements and land restoration agreements. Under the new law, drillers are not required to attend local zoning public hearings and can establish new drilling sites based upon 500 feet setbacks from structures with no township permits required.

The law establishes fees, estimated to be around $190 million total, to be paid annually by gas drillers to the state that are supposed to partially filter down to local municipalities. However, it strips them of their authority to decide where drilling sites, compressor stations and pipelines can be located.

Under the law, municipalities would have to rewrite their ordinances to reflect the terms of the new legislation within 120 days. If municipalities don’t comply, they would forfeit the revenue from the impact fees and possibly be charged for drilling company legal fees incurred if they had to challenge local governments’ zoning rules. The law names the state Public Utility Commission to oversee municipalities’ compliance with the new regulations.

“Basically, they’re telling us the driller gets whatever it wants,” said Council Member David Ball, who spent several days in Harrisburg prior to the bill’s passage speaking to legislators and Lieutenant Governor Jim Cawley. He also met with executive council members of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS), and he said he was very disappointed with their accepting response to the legislation. Peters Township, as well as most other municipalities in the state, pays a fee to belong to this association, which is supposed to represent the best interests of local governments. However, Ball suggested that the township withdraw its membership. “It’s a waste of money,” he said. Council member Robert Atkison agreed, calling PSATS “just more Harrisburg bureaucrats.”

Ball and Atkison said they were especially disappointed with their local legislators Senator John Pippy, R-Moon, and state Representative John Maher, R-Upper Saint Clair, who would not support them in voting against the legislation. Atkison left a message with Maher’s office following the vote and said he was not surprised that the state senator did not call him back.

Ball continued, “I am very unhappy with the way they ramrodded this through. They’re more interested in fees than the impact on townships. It’s a sneaky bill, and it takes away all of our rights. They make it sound like we have some control, but we don’t. We need to fight for our right to zone.”

Council directed Solicitor William Johnson to review House Bill 1950 to examine all aspects of legalities within it. Johnson agreed “to see what we can challenge and then see what we can do about it.” He also mentioned the real likelihood that many municipalities would band together to challenge the law. Peters has already formed an alliance in that regard with Cecil and Robinson townships in Washington County.

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Complaints Aired at South Park Board of Supervisors’ Meeting

By Andrea Earnest

At the February meeting of the South Park Board of Supervisors, representatives from the Girl Scout Council of Western Pennsylvania attended to make requests regarding the organization’s Tree Planting Initiative, which hopes to plant over 10,000 trees statewide. The Girl Scouts would like to honor the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts and contribute to the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society’s goal of planting 1,000,000 trees by the year 2020.

Service Unit Manager Leslie Brueggman of the Girl Scout Council of Western Pennsylvania requested permission to donate trees for planting at Evans Field and other areas in the township. They would also like to offer the pencil-sized hemlocks and Eastern white pines to any business and organization in South Park. The planting will take place in April and May. They will coordinate with Karen Fosbaugh, Township Manager.

Jeff Kalpas, a resident, asked to speak about a matter that occurred last August, when he held a picnic and invited the police. Sergeant Terry Banas and Patrolmen Richard Griffith stopped by.

At the picnic, his daughter, son, niece, and two other friends “made a poor decision to pose on top of one of the township police cars” and posted the pictures on Facebook. Kalpas stated that it was a stupid thing to do, but it was not a criminal action. He said that, waiting until the last possible day, Deputy Chief Dennis McDonough ordered Sgt. Banas

to file charges against those involved, charging his son, daughter, and niece with criminal and misdemeanor charges and his son’s girlfriend and friend with summary offenses. The police also produced estimates from Litman Auto Body alleging that over $5,000 in damages were caused by the kids. Kalpas said he looked at the cars and could find no damages,.

A hearing was held in early February in front of Magistrate Pat Capalupo.

Fosbaugh and Supervisor Edward Snee had been subpoenaed. As the township does not interfere with police department affairs, they declined to drop the charges. Deputy Chief McDonough offered to withdraw the charges if the defendants agreed to perform community service, which they have already done regardless of the outcome of the hearing, agreeing to participate in the cleaning of the patrol cars. Kalpas requested that the Board of Supervisors initiate an outside internal affairs investigation over what he considers to be fraudulent charges and the actions of the Deputy Chief. He said if this is done, he will consider not assisting his family in filing a federal civil rights law suit against the South Park Police Department. He requested that the township consider not using Litwin Auto Body in the future. He requested that Deputy Chief McDonough apologize to the officers for the verbal reprimand they received.

Chairman David Buchewicz asked that Kalpas present his written statement to Township Solicitor Justin Tuskan. He also stated that the Board of Supervisors

does not interfere with the police department and that it is their responsibility to investigate and their jurisdiction. Chairman Walter Sackinsky agreed that it was up to the police department to investigate.

Richard Brunetti asked for information about the Area residents who recycle pose with Township Manager Karen cost of legal fees that the Fosbaugh, with South Park Township’s award for having the greatest increase in percentage of recycling over the last year. township spent on grievances during the last year.

Fosbaugh will provide them to him.

Action was taken to authorize the sale of a township-owned vehicle, a 1997 Lincoln Continental that was confiscated. The minimum bid will be $500, and the bid will open on Thursday, March 8, 2012, at 10 a.m. with the bid to be award- Local Girl Scouts hope to distribute and help plant trees in the South ed at the regular Board Park area as part of the organization’s Tree Planting Initiative. meeting on Monday, monies from the South Park Foundation March 12, at 7 p.m.

The Board authorized the employ- to purchase another 50 lights, at a cost of ment of 14 part-time employees for the $80,000 each (total of around 2012 Summer Recreation Program. $400,000), to light the entire length of Training requests and conferences were Corrigan Drive. Because they are solarapproved for police personnel, zoning powered, maintenance will be minimal.

South Park Township won an award commissioners, and board members.

Supervisor Edward Snee mentioned for having the greatest percentage of that Frequency Lighting has donated a recycling increase over the last year. solar-powered light for near the soccer Supervisor Sackinsky credited Karen field on Corrigan Drive. They are hoping Fosbaugh, Jordanna Lehman, and the to obtain corporate sponsorship or residents of the township for the award.

Aquatorium Update Provided at Monongahela City Council Meeting

By Ken Askew

A resident of Decker Street for fifty years complained that her Monongahela City real estate taxes have been miscalculated for many years. Her assessment included part of an adjoining lot, which she does not own. Furthermore, the rate applied was erroneous. She has already appealed her Washington County real estate assessment, and received a reduced bill from them. She wrote a letter to the City, but her dispute was rejected by the Real Estate Assessor.

Solicitor Bassi instructed her in the next

procedural step--filing an appeal, which will be reviewed by City Council.

At their monthly meeting held on February 8, 2012, Monongahela City Council accepted a letter of resignation from Monongahela Police Officer Robert Boyer.

Connie Russell was approved as a new member of the sewage authority board.

The City’s Red Cross Disaster Team is seeking more volunteers to join the group.

Councilman Ken Kulak reported that bids received for the Mounds

Project exceeded the preset budget ceiling for the third time.

An update of the Aquatorium renovation was provided by Councilwoman Claudia Williams. She emphasized that this is a $2M multi-year effort, made more complex by the fact that funding is comprised of six grants emanating from several organizations.

The objective of the effort is not to just make the facility better for Fourth of July celebrations, but to establish it as a widely-known destination point for boaters and land visitors. The seating replacement is complete. The new boat

dock and skateboard park are expected to be finished in the summer of 2012.

Williams recently received a notice from the Pennsylvania American Water Company that they are receiving applications for grants. Council approved the submission of an application for a walkway at the Aquatorium.

A representative of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will be in the East Main Street vicinity next week to pursue possible methods of stopping the flow of water from a nearby mine onto the pavement.

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Let's Talk Real Estate

by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner

Is New Construction Right for You?

By Roger Dolanch, Broker/Owner Existing homes are what they are. What you see is what you get. You are buying the home design, carpet, cabinets, fixtures, windows, siding and everything else that were someone else's choices. If an existing home may be well into its expected life span, you can usually purchase more square footage for less money than a new brand-new home. Additionally, you may be able to find an newer existing home that is decorated to your liking and is in move in condition with no further investment.

New construction, on the other hand, is a clean slate.

You select your lot, colors, cabinets, interior and exterior

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designs. This may seem ideal to many, but new construction has its own set of issues. For example, building a new home will take anywhere from 3 to 6 months, whereas you can move into an existing home upon closing.

Once you have made the decision that new construction is right for you a little research is in order.

If you elect to build on your own lot or parcel of land, you need to look into the cost of sewage, water and utility hook-ups, municipality set-back rules, zoning, driveway placement, building permits and many other details.

Will you be your own contractor (not recommended for everyone) or will the construction be hired out to a contractor? If you elect to build in a new development, you know that these considerations are already dealt with and the costs are already factored by the builder.

As you look at model homes, be aware that many of the features you see in the model, online or in the brochures are upgrades from the standard items. Builder's tend to put “top of the line” amenities in the models for marketing purposes. You will select which grade and cost of flooring, cabinets, bathroom fixtures, lighting fixtures and more as part of the process of pricing your package and contract.

Another thing to watch carefully is your mortgage.

Many builders have their own mortgage companies and may try to get you to use their mortgage product. They may offer “incentives” for using their mortgage and title services. Sometimes this is a good thing and sometimes you can actually save by going elsewhere. We recommend you shop a little and make sure that the mortgage they are offering you is competitive priced in today’s market. After all, you are going to live with that payment for 30 years.

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.

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724-348-7470 to join today!

If you are buying in a new development that is offering swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses or other amenities yet to be built, you may want to know what happens if the developer goes out of business prior to these amenities being completed. Also, is there a difference in the maintenance fees before and then after completion?

Some communities demand a bond from the developers to assure their completion in case of financial problems.

Know what assurances you have and get it in writing.

If you are asked to close prior to the finish of your home and things are not completed due to weather, you should ask for the money to finish these projects are held in an “escrow” account until completion. We all know that landscaping, sidewalks and driveways are difficult to complete during bad weather.

Many people are unaware that real estate professionals can help with the purchase of new construction as well as existing homes. Common sense says that it makes sense to talk to the real estate professional that can offer guidance in a variety of areas. We can help you locate land, compare new construction to available existing homes, and even help you work with the builder of your choice if that is your decision. We invite you to call any of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty professionals for the guidance you deserve!

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

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Nottingham Residents Discuss Seceding from Ringgold School District

By J.R. Brower

A raucous crowd of close to 80 residents filled the new meeting room of the Nottingham Township Board of Supervisors on February 20 to express their dismay over the present state of affairs in the Ringgold School District.

The residents are upset with many issues in the school district, but what appears to have brought the situation to a boiling point is the school board’s handling of the probable closing of Ringgold Middle School in Finleyville.

The Finleyville school has had reoccurring structural problems due to the fact that it was built above an abandoned coal mine on soil that contains pyrite, a mineral that is very unstable.

The result has been that floors have lifted causing cracks, and sinkholes have formed both around and under the building. Despite costly projects in the 1980s to remove the pyrite and a recent expensive roof repair job, the ground is still unstable, and water continues to leak through the roof and walls causing additional problems of mildew and mold.

The board’s plan for the fall is to send middle school students to old elementary schools in either Donora or Monongahela. Both of these schools are currently closed and reportedly in

states of disrepair. Nottingham parents noted that this fall, some children will have round-trip bus rides of over 40 miles every day.

Gail Glaneman of Nottingham Forest in her address to residents cited the school board’s “wasteful spending, careless regard to tax dollars and upheaval in the students’ lives as they are shuffled around like checkers.”

She pointed out that the school district has been inept in planning for new schools. For example, she recently found out that Ringgold does not even own the property for the site on which a new middle school would be built (its latest plan), a venture that she says is unlikely to happen.

“These school buildings are riddled with asbestos, mold, mildew and a host of other issues that will be given a band-aid fix, only to recur in time,” she said.

“We feel that it is in our best interests as homeowners, parents, taxpayers and responsible citizens to remove ourselves from this debacle. This is a wonderful place to live, and Nottingham Township is moving forward with positive programs and new facilities, but the township itself is decreasing in value by the association with Ringgold.”

William Verscharen of Valley View

Road said that the school board should be forced to delay their plans to move students around until other options are found. He suggested that the township seek a court injunction.

Joley Morgan of Munntown Road asked the board to give direction on how the township could secede from the Ringgold School District.

Chairman Peter Marcoline explained that because Nottingham is a separate entity from the school district, they have no authority and can’t lead the township to take the necessary steps to secede. “We can’t do it. You have to do it,” he said.

Marcoline pointed out that residents will have to take it upon themselves to create a secession petition that would have to be signed by over 50% of taxpayers in the township. The petition would then be presented in Common Pleas Court. Ringgold schools and the receiving school district would then present their cases to the court before it would be sent to the state Superintendent of Public Instruction for final approval.

Residents who spoke brought up the options of requesting to move Nottingham’s 600 students to either Canon-McMillan or Peters Township school districts, most favoring CanonMcMillan. However, it was mentioned

that student populations of both school districts are at full capacity or close to it. One resident added that both neighboring school districts have extremely high academic rankings compared to Ringgold.

The supervisors pointed out that the petitioners would not only have to pay court costs and attorney fees, but if their petition succeeded, they would also be responsible to pay for Nottingham’s share of Ringgold’s debt burden, which is currently at $37,500,000. Marcoline said that although the idea of a petition sounds good at face value, “It is going to be costly.”

He and the other supervisors offered the residents the use of the new meeting room to get organized and will allow them to post information on the township website. Board members also said that they would write a letter reflecting the concerns of Nottingham resident, which they planned to present in person to the Ringgold School Board at a public hearing on February 29 at the middle school in Finleyville on that school’s closing. The school board will most likely hear from Union Township residents as well, who are also threatening to secede from Ringgold.

Trucks Damage More Yards in New Eagle

By Miranda Startare

At the February 7, 2012 borough meeting in New Eagle, Council discussed possible solutions to an ongoing problem in the city. Trailer trucks are using side roads within the city as shortcuts and are damaging property in the process.

The trucks have recently damaged residences’ yards off Route 136. The

tight turns required for these trucks to use some of these roads are likely causing the drivers to run over people’s property.

Council intends to place “No Trucks” signs in the areas involved.

Some of these signs are already in place in other locations affected in New Eagle. The goal is to try to keep these trucks on state roads.

In other business:

Borough Secretary/Treasurer Linda Hall read a new ordinance that allows the borough to charge a six percent interest rate on any amount of money owed to New Eagle. Included in this ordinance are fines, fees, costs, and penalties owed to the borough.

Council accepted a bid for a twiceadvertised property at 449 Third Avenue in New Eagle. The buyer, Thomas Gattrell, of Palm Bay, Florida

bid $3,500.

Council noted that a resident recently called to compliment the condition of the roads in the borough after a sudden snow on the previous Sunday.

The resident stated that the roads were clear in New Eagle, while they were not in surrounding communities.

Council was grateful for the crew’s work in maintaining the road’s conditions.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Magistrate Mills Addresses Elizabeth Council, Two New Council Members Seated for 2012, and Borough Seeks New Secretary

by Alice Harris

The January Elizabeth Council meeting began with a welcome to Councilwoman Robin Mains, newly elected to Council this year.

Guest Magisterial District Judge Beth Scagline Mills, Commonwealth Court 05-2-26, spoke on the need to warn children on improper use of cell phones and dangers imposed. For example, should a child send a nude photo via cellphone, he/she can be directly tracked to location if their GPS locator is on (if the GPS locator is off, 911 cannot locate by phone).

She has been visiting the schools to speak and is also available to speak to youth groups.

Also, in redistricting, two new courts: veterans court and sex offender court have been established with a 30-day comment period to evaluate. Judge Mills also reminded that her office has a wealth of information for veterans and that she is a notary and will notarize at no cost. Be sure to phone her office at 412-382-3050 to make sure she is there, and inform her secretary what you will need. Her office is located at 2611 Hayden Blvd. (Rt. 51 North) Suite #3, Elizabeth.

Guest Mary Black (who has been at several meetings the past months), in efforts to get the properties surrounding hers to better order, was informed there is no paper street and that those properties surrounding hers were owned. Efforts will be made to locate their whereabouts and whether they are still alive, and they will be back in touch with her with that information.

Guest Fire Chief Chad Rager inquired

Magisterial District Judge Beth Scagline Mills (right) swears in Ann Malady as the newest member of the Elizabeth Borough Council following the resignation of Councilman Butch van Fossen at the January council meeting.

under the “right to know” act what monies were received in the funding from FEMA for the 2010 snowstorm and that the fire company received nothing, although fire companies from other townships did. He was informed the borough did not recoup even a quarter to a third of the totals submitted. He asked to receive a copy of that information, which is available under the right to know act.

He also stated the fire company would like to at least recoup the $1,500 cost per building for the extra gas used to keep residents warm.

Fire Chief Rager also stated the Elizabeth Fire Company has a new fivespeed truck, currently have 40 active members and two juniors, and averages 10 firemen per call.

Guest Lynn Terbey, representing Riverside Veterinary, stated that Dr. Marybeth Cline would like to sponsor the light-up event in Elizabeth beginning

Christmas 2012 at no cost to the Borough. She also stated that anyone interested in helping is more than welcome. Dr. Cline’s gracious offer was accepted.

CSX has grants available for beautification and safety, to be looked into.

The termination of Robin Stockton Schmidt as borough secretary was approved.

John Snelson was approved as acting borough secretary. The vacant seat of a full-time borough secretary will be advertised with the salary and benefits commensurate with experience.

Councilman Duval stated that the engineering portion of Plum Street is done and has been submitted to COG. Help for power access by the Stephen Bayard Masonic Lodge is greatly appreciated.

The resignation of Councilman Butch

van Fossen was accepted. A motion to approve Ann Malady to fill his position for the second year of his two-year term was approved.

Construction for sewer separation has begun on lower Bayard Street.

A motion to purchase two repeater radios and one base for the streets department in the amount of $750 with a $50 monthly fee was approved.

Guest Dale Sutaria, owner of the BP Station, stated he wanted to open a Subway in his building but was defeated due to lack of population. In efforts to now open a sandwich shop, he stated problems with the building inspector losing his first application and not picking up the second, still in the borough office, until that day and that he has been waiting three months. Council stated they will make effort to consult the building inspector to try to speed things along.

Please see www.unionfinley.com for December 2011 monthly complaint totals for Elizabeth Borough Police.

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Peters Township Builders Frustrated Over No Sewer Taps

By J.R. Brower

Three builders addressed Peters Township Council at its February 13 meeting to express concern over a sewer tap-in ban imposed on the Peters Creek Sanitary Authority by the state Department of Environmental Protection. Ted Taylor, Mark Hoskins and Woody Welsh all said that they have been hampered by the ban, which has resulted in new homes standing vacant and lots remaining undeveloped. They asked Council to see what it could do to try to resolve the situation. “It has gotten to the point where it is a very serious situation,” said Hoskins. “Without tap-ins, we are out of work.” Taylor offered similar sentiments saying, “Since sewer permits are not being issued, we can’t get lots sold.”

Peters Creek Sanitary Authority (PCSA), which serves the Peters Creek watershed in the eastern half of the township, has been subject to scrutiny by the DEP as a result of its relationship with the Clairton Municipal Authority (CMA). According to Michael Silvestri, the CMA, which processes PCSA’s sewage, has been under a corrective mandate from the DEP to upgrade its facilities, hence the tap-in ban.

PCSA proposed a plan to build its own new sewage treatment plant in Union Township rather than continue sending their sewage to Clairton. “The DEP rejected their [PCSA’s] proposal for a new plant because they want the authority to work something out with Clairton,” Silvestri said. Because Clairton has not made an effort to improve its treatment plant, no new

taps can be issued. He said his efforts to try to mediate an agreement between Peters Creek and Clairton have “hit a brick wall.”

“Although we are actively trying to find alternatives, I don’t see a quick resolution to this,” he added. He said that he hoped that the PCSA Board could make some headway on the problem at upcoming meetings. He also suggested that the builders contact state legislators to see if they could do anything to help them.

In other business: Made the following board appointments – Toni Sulkowski to the Cable TV Board, Doyle Holliday to the Youth Commission and Stacey Noble as an alternate to the Zoning Hearing Board.

Approved a zoning change of a portion of Forest Lawn Gardens property from R-1A Residential to C-2 General Commercial to accommodate expansion by South Hills Honda.

Approved a resolution amending the sewage facilities plan for the Brush Run watershed to include the Tuscany Plan adjoining the Simmons Farm. The measure calls for sewers to be extended 1,500 feet from Justabout Road. The Tuscany Plan includes 18 large lots on a 51-acre parcel, and the developer will include a buffer zone of trees and shrubs between the subdivision and Simmons Farm.

Accepted the resignation of Tax Appeal Counsel Lane Turturice and accepted a proposal from Susan Key from the Peacock Keller Law Firm to perform tax appeal work for the township contingent on approval from the school district.

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Brentwood Baldwin Whitehall Chamber of Commerce Learn About Visionary Efforts

By Ken Askew

More than 40 members of the Brentwood Baldwin Whitehall Chamber of Commerce (BBWCC) gathered for a luncheon presentation at Calabria’s Restaurant in Castle Shannon to learn about two local visionary efforts.

On February 2, guest speaker Robert Yount, a Baldwin High School English teacher, told about an effort he has spearheaded called VISION Club (Volunteers in Service in One Neighborhood). Since Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, he has taken 6 groups of up to 53 teenagers to that area for a week of home reconstruction and repair. Their work has been done in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity, Rotary International, and the Brother’s Brother Foundation. For more informa-

The Brentwood Baldwin Whitehall Chamber of Commerce (represented by John Slater in the middle and Debbie Maddock at the right) presented a $5K check to Gregory Jones (left) of the Economic Development South at its meeting on February 2.

tion, Yount can be reached at 412-8857500, ryount@bwschools.net, or www.thevisionclub.org.

The second speaker was Gregory Jones, Executive Director of Economic Development South (EDS), a nonprofit organization. He described how EDS is

working to redevelop the Route 51 and Brownsville Road corridors to make them more attractive to new residents and businesses. EDS has focused on the transportation system, parking standards, zoning law updates, and landscaping. Its Shade Tree Commission plans to

plant 100-150 new trees in the area and will seek volunteer “tree tenders” to oversee their growth. At the meeting, BBWCC presented EDS a $5K check to further their projects. To contact EDS in Brentwood, call 412-884-1400 or email Greg@EconomicDevelopmentSouth.org.

For more information, visit www.EconomicDevelopmentSouth.org.

The next monthly meeting of the BBWCC general membership will be held at Salvatore’s Restaurant in Baldwin on March 1.

Also, a monthly Women’s Networking Meeting is held at the South Hills Country Club; the next one is planned for March 9. For more information about BBWCC and reservations for meetings, visit www.bbwchamber.com, e-mail secretary@bbwchamber.com, or call Mary Dilla at 412-884-1233.

Robert Bootay Resigns from Pleasant Hills Council to Prevent Conflict of Interest

By Ken Askew

After six years of service to the Pleasant Hills Council, Attorney Robert Bootay’s letter of resignation was announced at the Council meeting held on February 20, 2012. Bootay’s resignation was submitted to preclude any appearance of a conflict of interest between his legal practice, in which he represents residents appealing their property tax assessments, and his fiduciary duties on Council related to setting millage rates in the Borough. Applications for the position are being accepted.

Commendations were issued to Pleasant Hills Police Officers Gary Barr and Timothy McKown for stopping a burglary in progress at the Pittsburgh Gas Grill Company.

A resolution was passed to adopt Allegheny County’s Hazard Mitigation Plan as the official Hazard Mitigation Plan of Pleasant Hills Borough.

Council approved the filing of a grant application to the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County in the amount of $169,471 for improvements to the Pleasant Kingdom children’s playground.

Thirty sewer taps have been requested and approved for 2012, which are available upon application and approval of building permits.

Last month, Solicitor Jug discussed plans to place a sewer line under the CSX railroad tracks near the Curry Hollow Bridge. Subsequently, negotiations with CSX were completed, a construction contract was signed, and the work is scheduled to commence next month.

A Community Day Chairperson has been designated, and sufficient volunteers stepped forward to comprise the supporting committee. Thus, Community Day is scheduled for August 18, 2012. Although last year’s event finished at $4,500 in the red, surplus funds from previous years offset the deficit. The celebration is funded 50% by the Borough and 50% by donations from individuals and business sources.

Therefore, corporate contributions ranging from $150 to $500 are welcome.

The Baldwin EMS received a new ambulance, and Pleasant Hills Volunteer Fire Department took delivery of new squad truck. The new owner of 115 Dutch Lane planned to demolish a structure there but allowed the fire department to use it as practice for two days.

Police Chief Cunningham explained that five burglaries in the Borough last year had a common denominator—all occurred after a snowfall. The perpetrators went through neighborhoods offering to shovel snow; if no one responded to the doorbell or knocking, they assumed no one was home and targeted the house for a burglary. Cunningham suggested that neighbors watch out for each other to prevent crimes such as this and do not hesitate to report suspicious activity to the police.

Cunningham also told the story of a recent bank robbery at Citizen’s Bank on Old Clairton Road. Within six minutes of the alarm sounding, local police departments had the robbers in custody. Cunningham lauded the citizens on the scene who scooped up cash that the robbers had dropped and held it until they could hand it over to the police upon their arrival.

Representing a builder, Victor Rodriguez inquired about rezoning a 17-acre property next to Primanti Brothers Restaurant on Route 51, from R-2 to R-4. The builder hopes to build a four-story senior housing building, contingent upon approval of a rezoning application, which must be processed by the Borough Planning Commission.

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Finleyville Council Makes Difficult Choice Bob Roberts Appointed to Fill Vacant Council Seat

By Paul Chasko

The Finleyville Borough Council had a very tough decision to make at their February 1 regular meeting.

They found that deciding between two well-qualified and personable candidates for council was not an easy thing to do, particularly when both were sitting in front of them.

Finleyville is a very small community where everyone pretty much knows everyone else. Kim Schmidt and Bob Roberts both submitted letters of interest in the council seat made vacant by John Sechrist vacating an appointed seat to take the seat he won during the election. The four-member sitting council was forced by the requirements of law to make the best choice possible by direct appointment at this meeting.

Council members knew both candidates were well-qualified, with each having a keen interest in the well-

being of their community. President Tim Kegel attempted to evoke a motion out of someone for what seemed to be a long time. Even after each of the candidates spoke briefly as to their reasons for wanting to be council members, there was still no decision. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that the four-member council was split â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they simply couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bear to turn down either of the candidates. Finally, the pain of making the decision was eased somewhat by board member Irene Allridge announcing that she would most likely not be seeking another term and that the unsuccessful candidate could run for her seat in about a year.

This statement prompted Councilman Sechrist to floor a motion to appoint Bob Roberts. The motion was seconded by Irene Allridge and the roll call vote was unanimous.

Roberts was sworn in by Mayor Kutsek and took his seat, and the Finleyville Borough Council is once

again at five members. President Kegal strongly urged Schmidt to keep abreast of council business by attending meetings and to secure petition signatures to run for council.

In Other Business: Minutes of the last meeting were reviewed and accepted, as was the treasurerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report.

Mayor Mike Kutsek reported on public safety. He noted that dumpsters throughout the community were not being emptied regularly and that trash was building up around the Railroad Station. He also noted that the lawn mower repair shop porch was again overflowing with pieces of equipment.

The owner needed another notification.

He also reported the need for additional â&#x20AC;&#x153;No Parkingâ&#x20AC;? signs to keep lanes clear for snow plowing in the parking lot.

Two showcases need to be moved into the first floor of the borough building, and Len Maracinni is getting frames ready for the historical photos.

Mercantile taxes have not yet been paid by five businesses in the borough â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 31 was the deadline.

Solicitor Berggren reported that the presentation for the local share grant went well.

Police Chief Brian Tempest submitted reports for activities during January 2012 and all of 2011.

It was reported that the Southwest Regional Police Department cruiser was seen parked in New Eagle for an extended period of time, the implication being that they are not yet fully aware of their boundaries of service for Union Township and may be picking up speeders in New Eagle and stopping them in UT. A contract was signed with the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority for the installation of two bus shelters in the borough.

The mayor called for a committee to begin looking at repaving in the borough for next spring.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

Jefferson Hills Council Hires New Finance Officer /Treasurer /Assistant Secretary Reopened 2012 Budget Receives Final Approval

by Jim Caldwell

J. Andrew McCreery was hired by unanimous vote of the Jefferson Hills Borough Council at the regular meeting held February 13. Since 2006, he has been the accounting manager for Upper St. Clair Township. Picked from approximately 30 candidates, McCreery comes to the borough with excellent credentials. He graduated from Penn State in 2003 with a degree in philosophy, politics and economics; he earned his accounting degree in 2008 from the University of Pittsburgh; and in 2011 successfully passed the CPA exam. Interesting in his biography is the fact that, after college, he pursued a professional baseball career for two years with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

He resides in Mt. Lebanon with his wife, Jennifer.

Council likewise unanimously approved a $9.46 million 2012 budget, after it had been previously passed but reopened to solve two issues perceived as missing from the original version: approximately $250,000 in retroactive wages for the Teamsters Local Union 205 police contract and a large depletion of the borough’s contingency fund.

Throughout the month of January, members and staff worked studiously to trim the budget by $240,000 by reducing costs budgeted for conferences, moving monies allocated for a new truck from the general fund to the sewer fund and using about $175,000 from a refinanced bond to pay for HVAC units. The result was that no

programs were cut, taxes were not raised and the overall number was reduced from the original $9.7 million.

By a decree of the courts, the Borough adopted resolutions granting preliminary approval of the Washington Square Plan and final approval of its Phase I. Later in the meeting, the entire council denied the request from Southersby Development to use borough sales tax exemption for purchasing sanitary sewer extensions materials for the same Washington Square Plan. They also gave preliminary and final approval to the land development for the Pittsburgh Eye Institute. The borough solicitor was authorized to prepare an ordinance accepting the improvements with St. Thomas a’ Becket Church on Gill Hall Road. And, they authorized the execution of the Wastewater Treatment Agreement with Clairton, South Park and Peters Creek Sanitary.

Council members voted to update the Borough sanitary sewer connection fee, lowering it from $1,500 per connection to $1,325.40. Following this motion were two others approving the purchase of a Ford Sedan Police Interceptor vehicle and a Ford Utility Police Interceptor vehicle from Day Ford under the SHACOG Purchasing Alliance. The former was $31,862.00, the latter, $31,447.00.

Council reappointed Donna Schultz and Richard Bonacci to the Educational Service Agency until the end of 2014 and appointed Paul Calise to the Zoning Board until the end of 2015.

Clarification Regarding Peters Creek Sanitary Authority The article on the Nottingham Board of Supervisors meeting in the Municipal News section of the February Union-Finley Messenger contained misinformation concerning the jurisdiction of the Peters Creek Sanitary Authority (PCSA). The authority serves Union Township, Finleyville Borough and portions of Nottingham Township and Peters Township. Although PCSA interceptors pass through the Allegheny County municipalities of South Park Township and Jefferson Hills Borough on their way to the Clairton Municipal Authority, Peters Creek Sanitary Authority does not service those areas. We regret the error.

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Union Township Board Voices Opposition to Ringgold School Board Actions

By Paul Chasko

The facilities usage plan being considered by the Ringgold School Board that would ultimately result in reopening the old school buildings last used as Donora and Monongahela Elementary Centers and the closing of the existing Ringgold Middle School (Finley Middle School) came under critical discussion at the February 13 Union Township Board meeting.

The UT Solicitor, residents in attendance, and Earl Danielson, Quaker Engineering and Developer of Tuscany Estates in UT, joined in the discussion. The board and attendees all were critical of the actions of the Ringgold School Board.

There was not one statement made at the meeting in support of the school board’s proposed actions.

One of the sore points discussed was the lack of representation of Union and Nottingham townships on the current Ringgold School Board. One board member blamed voter apathy. Another proposed an obvious remedial action to eliminate “at large” school board seats and to return to a strictly regional representation from all communities in the school district. Another board member suggested that avenues be explored to immediately change the representation on the school board.

In the course of the discussion, the UT Board passed the following motions; all were approved by vote.

Approve Solicitor Makel’s attendance at the February 29 special meeting scheduled by the Ringgold Board to vote on the closing of the present Ringgold Middle School (Finley Middle School). [unanimous] Approved a resolution indicating UT’s opposition to the closing of Finley Middle School and the reopening of the MEC and DEC buildings to house middle school students citing as reasons: The plan not being cost efficient.

Failure to seek appropriate funds (grants) to replace the costs of the proposed renovations.

Ignoring the PLANCON process required by the PA Department of Education for new building construction and major renovations. [unanimous] To support whatever process is necessary to return the school board seating to regional seats only. [4 yes, 1 no] To begin investigating the possibility and procedures for UT seceding from the Ringgold School District to become part of another adjacent school district, either West Jefferson Hills, South Park or Peters Township. [unanimous]

Proposed 34.4% Bethel Park Tax Increase No Longer Necessary The Bethel Park Tax Repeal Petition Committee decided to cease all efforts to collect additional signatures for the tax repeal petition at their regular weekly meeting on Sunday, January 29. Their decision was based upon a public announcement by Council President Tim Moury at a public meeting on the 23rd that the 34.4% tax increase will no longer be necessary.

Dino Bello, a local businessman and organizer of the committee, said the petition drive was on track to exceed the 2,800 signatures that would have forced Municipal Council to repeal the tax increase within 30 days. Otherwise, a binding referendum would have been placed on a 2012 ballot so voters would have been able to determine the fate of the 34.4% tax increase. Council President Tim Moury announced that the staff had determined that there was an additional $1.3 million available for the 2012 budget that was not accounted for when the budget was passed in November with a 34.4% tax increase.

Because the tax increase would have produced $1.4 million, the newly discovered $1.3 million makes the tax

increase unnecessary.

A formal annual financial audit will be conducted in February by Maher Duessel, the municipality’s public accounting firm. It is expected that the audit will determine the exact final numbers. Bello stated, “We are declaring victory because our goal to stop the tax increase has been achieved without the need for a referendum.”

Many of the Tax Repeal Petition Committee members and supporters submitted many detailed questions and suggestions to Municipal Council and staff that resulted in further analysis by the staff. Many questions were based on a historical pattern of the revenues being understated and the expenses being overstated. If the 2012 property tax increase of 34.4% was passed, Bethel Park municipal property taxes would have increased a total of 52% since 2008.

Bello added, “We determined that there was no further need for us to continue circulating petitions and asking citizens for their support. Our goal has been achieved. We would like to thank all of the volunteers and all of the citizens that signed our petition.”

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Union Township Board Addresses Facilities Issues Act 537 Sewage Plan and Ringgold Issues Initiate Actions

By Paul Chasko

The Union Township Board of Supervisors took action they felt necessary at their February agenda-setting meeting to address issues of local concern regarding education and infrastructure facilities planning.

As was anticipated, written notification from the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) was issued to Peters Creek Sanitary Authority denying permission to construct a new sewage processing facility in UT. A letter to that effect dated January 20, 2012 from the DEP to PCSA was distributed and read at the February 13 UT Board meeting. Four critical points were addressed in the letter (excerpts): The option presented in PCSA’s Act 537 plan for a new sewage plant discharging into Peter’s Creek is denied, citing an unacceptable environmental impact on an impaired waterway (Peters Creek).

The alternative option presented in the Act 537 plan to maintain the connection to the Peters Creek interceptor that conveys sewage to the Clairton Municipal Sewage Authority (CMSA) treatment plant is the best environmental option. This is because the Clairton plant will be expanded, and the dilution in the Monongahela River is much greater than at the proposed Peters Creek location.

Federal regulations prohibit the state from issuing a permit for a new source that will cause or contribute to the

degradation of an impaired stream.

The existing cost analysis is invalid in that it does not consider the more restrictive limit that would be imposed due to the lack of stream assimilative capacity (the construction and operating costs may be higher to purify the effluent sufficiently to dump into Peters Creek).

The notification also stated that PCSA has 30 days to challenge this action by appealing to the Environmental Hearing Board.

A lengthy discussion followed as to how UT should respond to the PCSA Act 537 Supplement 1 and the DEP response letter. The discussion centered on somehow reaching a permanent solution to the sewage limitations in the Peters Creek watershed that becomes more serious each year, according to the Board and township engineer. Tuscany Estates Developer Earl Danielson voiced his concerns that once again PCSA has not released approval for new sewage taps in 2012.

He said this continuing problem is going to stifle further development in UT. Board members also voiced concern that the DEP may dictate a more costly solution that could drastically affect sewage rates for PCSA customers. Another issue discussed was the contention that the CMSA Board has never provided cost estimates in sufficient detail to estimate the impact their improvements may have on upstream customers. Uncertainty about the costs to upgrade the interceptor line between the PCSA system

and the CMSA plant and who should pay for it was also discussed.

The following motion was placed before the board by Steve Parish and seconded by Larry Spahr to the following effect and was unanimously approved: Authorize Solicitor Makel to dictate a letter to Samuel Harper, DEP Clean Water Program manager, indicating that UT opposes the option proposed by the PCSA to build a new sewage plant in UT. Authorize Solicitor Makel to dictate a letter to the DEP asking for a meet-

ing with representatives of all municipalities and agencies within the Peters Creek watershed to reach a workable solution to the sewage issue. It was also suggested that Representative Saccone and Senators Solobay and Pippy should be involved.

A lengthy critical discussion of the facilities actions being taken by the Ringgold School Board resulted in several motions (see the article in this issue and also in the Mon Valley Messenger – Union Township Board Voices Opposition to School Board Actions).

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

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

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7jh^cZhh BZgX]Vci CZlh UPCOMING SOUTH HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENTS Interested in establishing more business contacts? Learning how to grow your business? Gaining new insights? Consider joining the South Hills Chamber of Commerce.

On Tuesday, March 13 at 11:30 a.m. (lunch at noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; speaker at 12:30 p.m.), the Chamber will hold its monthly luncheon also at Andoraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant. Karen Mokwa, from Pittsburgh South Express Employment Professionals, will discuss recruiting, retaining and motivating the various â&#x20AC;&#x153;Generations in the Workplace.â&#x20AC;?

Join the Chamber for valuable insight that Mokwa has developed to assist you in developing a more congenial, productive work environment. Cost is $20. Reservations must be made by March 11. For more information or to register, call the Chamber at 412-306-8090.

Lenzi Service Station Recognized as Business of the Month

Lenzi Service Station team proudly poses with their award from Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce recognized Lenzi Service Station as the February 2012 Business of the Month. Lenzi Service Station has been serving the community since 1943. They were chosen because they provide outstanding service to their customers. Gary and Debbie Lenzi have been actively involved in the community. They donate their time and effort in every Chamber event. The Lenzis plan to move their business to a larger location on E. Main St. in mid-2012.

MACC March Meeting Discusses Chamber Choice Insurance The Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce general membership meeting for March will be held on Wednesday, March 21 at noon at Monongahela Valley Hospital, Inc. Chamber Choice representatives will be our speaker. The cost for the luncheon is $11. Make reservations by Monday, March 14 by calling the Chamber at 724-258-5919. Please come and bring a friend or two. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be glad you did!

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

unionfinley.com 31 BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS—————————————————————————————————————————— UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Women’s Business Network Open to Area Women Business Owners The Women's Business Network is open to area women business owners and those in sales seeking networking opportunities to expand their contacts and share ideas to help grow their business. Meeting agendas include self-marketing, a business presentation by an individual member, a table topic discussion and networking. Each of the various local chapters meets twice a month on the following dates and locations: • The Mount Lebanon Chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, March 13 and 27, at 8:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza on Fort Couch Road. For more information, contact Sue Baumgart at 412-759-3965.

• The South Hills Chapter meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays, March 1 and 15, at 8 a.m. at King's Restaurant, 155 McMurray Road in Upper St Clair. For more information, contact Jennifer Ohrman at 412-531-5055.

• The McMurray Chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, March 14 and 28, at 8:30 a.m. at The Meadows (Bowling Alley), 210 Race Track Road, Washington. For more information, please contact Sallie Dunn at 724-503-4500.

The Washington Chapter meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, March 14 and 28, at 8:30 a.m. at Panera Bread, 108 Trinity Pointe Drive, Washington. For more information, please contact Jessica Kestler at 412-838-0064.

Lakeside Primary Care L Lake

Mary Parks Lamb, M.D.

Kristen Scalise Romesburg, D.O.

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Sunny Bridge Natural Foods Celebrates 10th Anniversary Sunny Bridge Natural Foods, one of Pittsburgh’s largest locally owned, all-natural product and organic food markets, announced it would be holding a 10th Anniversary Celebration. It will be open to the public and free for all attendees.

The open house will be held on March 1 - 3 during regular store hours at 130 Gallery Drive in McMurray. Each day during the anniversary celebration, customers will receive a 10% discount offered on all products, a variety of speakers, free samples, raffles, prizes and giveaways.

For additional information regarding the 10th Anniversary Celebration, please contact Gina Snyder at 724-942-5800 or visit the website at www.SunnyBridgeNaturalFoods.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

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— 32 unionfinley.com UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

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

FURNITURE & BEDDING 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 "Pothole" body, and outstanding motion isolation. Even so, traditional memory Highway Appliances foam technology hasn't changed much since it was invented more than 40 years 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: What is glaucoma?

A: Glaucoma is an eye disease where eye pressure begins to climb. This leads to damage to the optic nerve (the cable in the eye that carries information to the brain.) This damage is permanent, and if not treated, leads to permanent blindness. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States.

Glaucoma is called the "thief of sight."

Dr. Evan B. Dreyer Until the disease is fr along, there can be no warning signs at all. By the time the patient is aware of lost vision from glaucoma, it is generally too late to save their vision. The only way to prevent this is to catch the disease early, so that treatment can be started.

Q: How is glaucoma diagnosed?

A: Glaucoma can only be diagnosed by screening by a competent eyecare provider. The patient will not be aware that he or she has a problem until it is generally too late. If caught early, the disease can almost always be successfully treated and blindness prevented. The diagnosis is made by measuring the eye pressure, testing your side vision, and looking at the optic nerve.

Q: How is glaucoma treated?

A: There are many ways of treating glaucoma. These include drops, laser, pills and sometimes surgery. If caught early enough, glaucoma can almost always be stopped in its tracks.

Q: What if surgery is required?

A: There is no reason to leave the Mon Valley. Ask your optometrist for a referral to Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants. We provide state-ofthe-art glaucoma surgery, both by laser and in the operating room.

We would be happy to discuss the most modern techniques for the management of your glaucoma.

Evan B. Dreyer, MD

S U R G I C E N T E R

Glaucoma Cataract Consultants 17 Arentzen Blvd., Suite 201 Speers, PA 15022 724-483-3688

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.

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

DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT) AND IVG FILTERS Q: I’m 21 years old, and I was diagnosed with a blood clot in my leg after a long flight to London with friends. I was on birth control pills at the time and don’t take them anymore.

I had testing of my blood to see if there was anything in it that made me clot. This came back “normal.” This was about five years ago. A friend of mine was diagnosed with the same thing recently and she had to get a special filter put in called an IVC filter. Why did she have to have this and I did not?

Dr. Gennady Geskin

MD, FACC A: IVC filters are like screens that are placed in the inferior vena cava (a Jefferson Cardiology large vein in the body that returns blood back to the heart and lungs).

Association Board Certified in Vascular This prevents the clot from moving to the lungs and causing a puland Endovascular Medicine monary embolism (PE) or clot in the lung. IVC filters are a valuable tool in prevention of PE and can be placed with minimal complications or discomfort. These can be temporary or permanent. Practitioners who place these are responsible for appropriate use and monitoring of these devices. Patients who cannot take medications, commonly referred to as blood thinners, or those who have had recurrent blood clots despite the use of blood thinners have a clear indication of these devices. These devices are commonly placed by interventional cardiologists, vascular specialists and radiologists. Without further information, I assume your friend had an indication for placement and you may have not.

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

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

unionfinley.com 33 BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS—————————————————————————————————————————— UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

American Heart Association Presents Award to Canonsburg General Hospital American Heart Association representatives Diana Cummings, Division Director for Washington and Mon Valley, and Steve Dentel, BSN, RN, CPHQ, Senior Director of Quality Improvement Initiatives, presented the Get With the Guidelines Heart Failure Bronze Quality Achievement Award to Deborah Morris, R.H.I.A. Director, Quality Services, and Elizabeth Hardy, BSN, RN, Nursing Director 2-West, of Canonsburg General Hospital. The recognition signifies that CGH has reached an aggressive goal of treating heart failure patients for at least 90 days with 85% compliance to core standard levels of care outlined by the AHA/American College of Cardiology secondary prevention guidelines for heart failure patients.

Columbia Gas Awards Community Action Southwest a $5,000 Grant for Seniors Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. recently awarded Community Action Southwest (CAS) with a $5,000 grant to benefit seniors in Greene County. The funds will be used to support CAS volunteers who provide home delivered meals to homebound seniors and to assist low-income seniors with crisis situations.

“Columbia Gas is committed to ensuring that seniors stay safe and warm in their homes, and the programs provided by organizations like Community Action Southwest are indeed helping seniors,” said Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania President Carol Fox.

From Community Action Southwest, Stacy Stroman, Director of Senior Services, and Jeffrey Fondelier, Vice President of Operations, accept a $5,000 Grant from Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, presented by Annette Barker, Operations Center Manager.

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— 34 unionfinley.com UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

Wedding Guide The Magic Room NAPSI)—A joyful and at times heartbreaking new book offers insights into marriage, family and the lessons that parents pass on to their daughters about love.

The story takes place in Becker’s Bridal in Fowler, Michigan, a place that 100,000 brides-to-be from across the Midwest have made pilgrimages to. A mirrored room in this bridal shop, once a bank vault, is now called the “Magic Room.”

In “The Magic Room: A Story

A new book examines the hopes and dreams of women on the verge of commitment.

About The Love We Wish For Our Daughters” (Gotham), Jeffrey Zaslow takes readers to this remarkable small-town bridal shop to

explore the hopes and dreams that parents have for their daughters.

Zaslow came to Fowler not just to write about wedding gowns and what they represent. He came to understand the women wearing them, their fears and yearnings, and through them, he tells a larger story about the love between parents and daughters today.

In “The Magic Room,” Zaslow examines women on the brink of commitment, whose stories, secrets and memories will pull you in from the moment they first see their reflection in this iconic room.

“The Magic Room” is available wherever books are sold.

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One in every 10 weddings features an exotic locale, or at least a location neither the bride nor groom calls home. While there's no absolute explanation as to why destination weddings have started a bridal takeover, the hefty price of typical weddings is reason enough for many -- especially if Daddy isn't footing the bill.

"If done correctly, destination weddings can be a cheaper alternative for everyone. Guests don't have to buy expensive gifts, just a ticket. All the money spent on the wedding party, venues, refreshments, cake, reception and decor is significantly reduced if not cut altogether,"explains Nini Pardo, wedding planner at Stay in Costa Rica, an accommodations and rental management company.

The author of "Destination Weddings for Dummies," Susan Breslow Sardone, says the traditional American wedding costs an average of $28,082, whereas destination weddings average around $20,600.

"Some of the cost difference is definitely a result of resorts and hotels capitalizing on the trend. Many now offer the full wedding package with wedding planners, musicians, photographers, etc. We employ full-time wedding coordinators, like myself, to craft intimate weddings at our Los Suenos Resort," Pardo adds. "We've found it really appealing to budget-conscious brides."

Budget-conscious brides have become a trend as well, according to Patricia MacArthur, executive director of WeddingStar.com -- a go-to authority on all things wedding-related. MacArthur says more brides are trimming expenses by taking the DIY route for guest favors and some decorative elements.

An extra tip from the experts, when considering the perfect setting to make your vows and possibly trash the dress: look at locations that are one flight away from you and most of your guests. Direct flights tend to be cheaper and less hassle. To learn more about saying "I do" in Costa Rica, visit www.stayincostarica.com.

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ————————————————————————————————————————— 36 unionfinley.com

March 2012 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Kids & Family Fall Registration at Center Church Christian Preschool Center Church Christian Preschool, located in McMurray, is currently accepting registrations for the 2012-2013 school year. We have classes for children ages 2-5. Music, art, science, exercise, cooking and special programs are included.

Morning, afternoon, lunch and extended day programs are also available. For information, call Bonnie Kline, Director, at 724-263-2385.

Mon Valley YMCA Sets Date for March Sleepover The next Teen Movie Sleepover will be held on Friday night, March 30.

March's movie theme is Marvel Superheroes. We will be showing the Spiderman movies as well as Iron Man and X-Men. Movie sleepovers start at 8 p.m. at the Mon Valley YMCA and end at 7 a.m. Cost is $15 for YMCA members paid before March 28 and $20 after the deadline. Cost is $20 for non-YMCA members paid before March 28 and $25 after the deadline. For ages 9-16. Call our Youth & Teen director, Adoree DeLucaJohnson, for more information at 724-483-8077 ext.

206.

Saturday Night Live a Swimming Success at the Mon Valley YMCA Saturday Night Live at the Mon Valley YMCA is held the 2nd Saturday of every month from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

This is a great family night and wonderful way to make new friends or just meet a bunch of your old friends here to play.

There is swimming, gym sports, dodgeball, youth & teen center activities and of course, food every month.

Free for all YMCA members and $5.00 for guests of all ages. Nowhere else in the Mon Valley can you hang out with your family or drop your older kids off where they get to eat and have all of these activities, so come on out and join us!

Some kids enjoy the new water climbing mountain in the pool.

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

YMCA YAG Club Hosts Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser Deanna DeRose of Donora, Jessica Hindman of Belle Vernon, and Michelle Gulick of Carroll Township get ready for the sleepover.

Tiny Tots Enrollment at Ruby Daugherty Dance Studio Spring enrollment for Tiny Tots class starts Saturday, March 3 from 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon at Ruby Daugherty Dance Studio. Ages are young pre-school. Class includes fun with coordination, dance and tumbling, accompanied by a parent or older sibling. For more information, call 724-348-7476.

Caleb Radomile, president of the Youth & Government Club, cooking noodles.

Logan Styche and Taylor Jones get ready to serve spaghetti.

There will be an all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner on Saturday, March 10 at the Mon Valley YMCA to help raise money for the Youth & Government Club so they can attend their Model Conference at the PA State Capitol in Harrisburg in April. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at the door. Takeouts are also available. Dinner includes homemade spaghetti sauce, spaghetti, meatballs, fresh bread, salad, drinks and dessert. Dinner will be from 1 – 5 p.m. or until sold out!

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

KIDS & FAMILY

Upcoming Events at John McMillan Presbyterian Church Preschool John McMillan Presbyterian Church Preschool is currently accepting registrations for the 2012 - 2013 school year. If you are looking for a quality preschool program for your child within a loving, Christian environment, visit our school, meet our experienced teachers and discover why learning is fun at John McMillan.

Classes are available for children ages 2 through 5. Developmentally appropriate curriculum includes art, music, kindergarten-readiness activities, science, creative and outdoor play. Our Friday morning Parent and Tot classes are an opportunity for you and your two year old to enjoy a special time together. The Three Year Old Classes meet twice a week and the Four Year Old Classes meet on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Our four-day Transition Class is designed for the older preschool child who would benefit from another year of preschool prior to entering kindergarten. Kindergarten Plus is a fun enrichment program with a hands-on science and math focus for children enrolled in a traditional kindergarten setting.

John McMillan is located on Clifton Road in Bethel Park just minutes from South Park, Finleyville, Peters Township and Upper St. Clair. Enrollment is open to children of all faiths and from all surrounding areas. Tuition includes a sibling discount for those families enrolling more than one child. For further information or to arrange a tour, please call Pat Folino at 412-833-4704.

MOPS - Mothers of Preschoolers Invites New Members Are you a mom who is expecting, or has a child that is a newborn to kindergartener? Do you need to meet other moms and have some adult time? You are welcome to MOPS. We meet at Crossroads Ministries located 1 mile south of Trax Farms in Finleyville. Meetings are the 2nd and 4th Tuesday mornings of the month from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. Childcare is provided through the group by our MOPPETS program.

With great food and even greater conversation, meetings are organized around either a creative activity or a guest speaker; covering topics of parenting, marriage, homemaking and personal growth. The activities help you to decorate your life, and the speakers help you to decorate your spirit.

What have you got to lose, except the chance to make a few new friends? What do you have to gain, except leaving MOPS a stronger person than when you entered … ready to face whatever challenges motherhood or life will bring your way.

If you have questions, please feel free to call our MOPS Coordinator Chrissy McNees at 412-831-4875. You can also access Crossroads Ministries website at www.crossroadsministries.com.

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

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

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— 38 unionfinley.com UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

OBITUARY James W. Haines Sr.

Sports Aficionado Was Active in Community James W. Haines, Sr. died February 4, in Forbes Hospice, Pittsburgh, following a short illness.

He was born May 15, 1931, son of the late Walter C. and Mildred Richter Haines Mamula.

Mr. Haines was a graduate of Connellsville High School and remained on the class reunion committee to his death.

He started his career as “Cactus Jim,” a disc jockey at WCVI in Connellsville. He moved to Monongahela in 1958. While working for Metropolitan Insurance in 1976, he was honored as “Agent of the Year.” In 1983, he was conferred outstanding veteran award by Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. After his retirement, he continued his income tax business, until his death.

Throughout his life, he was active in many community activities, including chairman of the Monongahela Bicentennial in 1969, and was a member of St. Damian of Molokai Parish Transfiguration Church, Monongahela Elks, Past Veterans of Metropolitan Insurance Company and Monongahela Neighborhood Boys Club. He was on the board of United Way, Monongahela Sewage Authority and past president of MIDA, was chairman of Mon Valley Heart Fund, Mon Valley Progress Council and Mon Valley Education Association Board of Directors. He also volunteered for many years at the former Mon Valley Catholic High School, where he met many lifelong friends. In 1988, he was the recipient of the Monongahela Chamber of Commerce “Citizen of the Year” award and the 22nd Congressional District Award. He was a member of Pitt Golden Panthers, of which he took great pride.

His greatest love was his wife of 55 years, Ida Jane Waller Haines, who died June 30, 2009.

Surviving are a son, James W. Haines, Jr. and friend Maureen Mesing; daughters Jane Anne (David) Perecko and Cheryl DeRosa and friend James Long; six grandchildren, Jennifer Perecko, Darryl Perecko and fiancee Stephanie Wingerter, Leah (Marc) Berry, Gary DeRosa, Natalie (Anthony) Pisano and Gino DeRosa and fiancee Colleen Butela and their father and dear friend, Jeff DeRosa; a brother-in-law, Thomas Waller; and numerous devoted nieces and nephews and cousins. Deceased are a brother, Richard, and a sister, Marjorie.

Recent Local Death Notices AIELLO – Velma “Toots,” of Monongahela died Wednesday, January 25. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

ANDERSON – Carol J., 68, of New Eagle died Thursday, January 26.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

BAILS – Wallace E. “Butch,” 73, of Finleyville died Monday, February 6.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

BALOG – Mildred H. “Fritz,” 96, of Finleyville died Tuesday, January 31.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

BARKEY – George “Buck,” 86, of Monongahela died Friday, January 27.

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

BARTOLOTTA – Sophia M., 92, of Monongahela died Monday, January 23. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

BEDNER – Mary A. (Pelissero), 91, of Monongahela died Monday, February 6. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

BENTLEY – Josephine Polonoli, 83, of New Eagle died Tuesday, January 24. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

BISHOP – Irene J., 88, of Venetia died Sunday, February 12.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

CALLIHAN – Margaret “Peggy,” 80, of Newell died Wednesday, January 18. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

CERTELLI – Mary Jane, 90, of Coraopolis, formerly of West Elizabeth died Friday, January 6.

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

CHEW – Erma Mae, 82, of Monongahela (Forward Twp.) died Monday, February 13. Arrangements

under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

DAMICO – George M., of Monongahela died Thursday, February 9. Arrangements under direction of William A. Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle.

FERGUSON – John D., 84, of Monongahela died Sunday, January 22. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

HAINES – James W. Sr., 80, of Monongahela died Saturday, February 4. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

HOGG – Dorothy E., 91, of Finleyville died Saturday, February 18.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

GRICAR – Julia, 84, of Monongahela died Tuesday, February 7. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

HENDERSON – Donald E., 80, of Elizabeth, formerly of Monongahela, died Tuesday, January 17.

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

HOJO – Anna Cole, 97, of Monongahela died Friday, January 20.

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

HOLLIS – Veronica A. (Tater) of Monongahela died Thursday, January 19. Arrangements under direction of William A. Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle.

MICHLER – Arnold P., 83, of Eighty Four died Wednesday, February 1.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

NEWMAN – Bessie, 51, of Courtney died Tuesday, January 17.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

NONES – Renato “Reno,” 89, of Victory Hill in Monongahela died Sunday, January 1. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

PIETROBONI – Dominick R., 91, formerly of Monongahela, died Sunday, January 29. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

REICHEL – Helen (Selinsky), 80, of New Eagle died Sunday, January 15.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

SADLER – Thomas J., 84, of Monongahela died Sunday, January 15. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

SIMPSON – Leah M., 99, of Venetia died Saturday, January 25.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

SIMS – Jeffery D., 52, of Venetia died Saturday, February 18.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

SUTY – Frank, 80, of Finleyville died Wednesday, January 29.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

THOMAS – Thelma Mckeever, 86, of Monongahela died Friday, January 13. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

TOKAR – Marilyn Joyce, 77, of Monongahela died Tuesday, January 10. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

WAIN – Ethel G “Etsie,” 81, of Finleyville died Sunday, February 12.

Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

YOUNG – Ruth G., 90, of Monongahela died Tuesday, January 31. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

ZALADONIS – Robert A. Sr., 66, of Monongahela died Sunday, January 15. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home, Inc. in Monongahela.

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

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

Home & Garden Don’t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Home & Garden Guide Coming Next Month. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177

Spring

Home

&

Coming in April

Garden Guide

Call 412-249-8177 today for advertising opportunities.

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

Trax Farms Offers Tri-State Master Gardeners Lecture Series Spring is around the corner, so it’s time to start gearing up for the spring planting season. The Tri-State Master series of lectures scheduled for March 26 at Trax Farms allows gardeners to learn valuable information and tips only master gardens know. So register today, and make sure your gardening season goes off without a hitch. All proceeds of the event benefit the TAMGA program.

SESSION ONE Perennials - 9:30 - 10:20 a.m. - Learn about the plants that keep giving and giving year after year with Master Gardener Linda Steider.

Heirloom Flowers - 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.

- Learn about heirloom flowers (grown before 1940), their heritage and growing them from seeds with Master Gardener Dawna Kale.

Herbs - 11:25 a.m. - noon - Learn how to grow herbs in gardens and pots for year-round enjoyment and culinary uses.

Learn to use herbs in bee and butterfly gardens with Master Gardener Kelly Argent.

SESSION TWO Make A Creative Fairy or Mini Garden - 1 p.m. - Master gardeners will help you to create a charming fairy or mini garden using easy growing mini plants and herbs that will grow and bloom all summer long.

Registration fee is $15 for Session One, $25 for Session Two, or $35 for both sessions. Please pre-register with Hancock County Ext. at 304-564-3085. Class size is limited.

HOME & GARDEN

March 2012 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

UNION TOWNSHIP Thomas Sinnovich Estate of John Deans III Diane Dojcak Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. Kimberly Lopata Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. Maronda Homes Inc.

David Spinnenweber Daniel Campbell Shields Asphalt Raymond and Kelly Zigmond Wells Fargo Bank Mingo Boy Inc. Brian Chicchi

5114 Union St. 4 Evelyn Drive Rankintown Road 6815 Ridge Ave. 2148 Ranklintown Road 6068 Route 88 143 Viareggio Way

MONONGAHELA Marie Balogh

William Farthing

248 Poplar St.

NEW EAGLE New Eagle Borough 21st Mortgage Corp.

William Neil Volker Bret and Ilona Boyd

Chess St. 501 Memorial Ave.

$6,000 $10,000

CARROLL TOWNSHIP Federal National Mortgage Corp.

Samuel Fonner Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Dean Rebar Aurora Loan Services Inc. Daniel Diener

27 Prosperity St. 4 Sampson Ave. 62 Hazelkirk Road

$32,000 $1,249 by sheriff's deed. $24,500

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Barbara Bovidge

Micky Stash

Agnes Pencoske Maronda Homes Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. Arturo Castro Estate of James Storer Anthony Lettieri et al.

Judith Ann Yuhas Lewis Kearns Samuel Coccia Jr. Willa Kovacs Jacquelyn McGrew Estate of Joseph Kosloski Estate of William Fiore Estate of Helen Pavlik

Linda Chontos and Janice Lynn Ulinski Jeffrey and Dawn Repasky Richard Dell III and Nicole Dell Anthony and Maria Washburn Stephen and Christine Demetriadis Christopher Lettieri and Jessica Petro Thomas Puskaric and Hayley Robbins Lauren and Robert Holman Casey Mullen Angela Sabilla Jay Macanic Joshua Cole JJ Oil & Gas Inc. Joseph and Richelle Pecora

2216 Briarwood Drive $37,000 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $124,020) by sheriff's deed.

118 Broadlawn Drive $70,000 308 Kennett Drive $173,425 327 Kennett Drive $246,505 127 Larchfield Drive $145,000 204 Meadow Drive $139,000 312 Terrytown Drive $100,000 414 Cowan Drive $111,000 810 Everglade Drive $98,000 717 Greenock Buena Vista Road $72,000 814 E. Smithfield St. $57,500 Firden Lane $35,000 2124 Neal Drive $90,000 Water St. $1,326,000 925 Weigles Hill Road $111,000

FORWARD TOWNSHIP David LeDonne George Hepner

Dianne Curinga and Nicholas Curinga II 409 Oliver Drive Troy Yonkers Jr. 2650 Hepner Lane

$98,000 $20,000 $20,000 $63,699 $1,346 by sheriff's deed. $44,900 $175,520 $8,000

$150,500 $90,100

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

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

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

Buyer

Address

Price

CLAIRTON Rose Marie Weiss Helen Harbaugh Ralph Zimmerman Elizabeth Ann Collins et al.

Steel Blue LLC Geoffrey Davis Russell and Magella Williams Samantha and Charles David

Estate of William Jennings Wagner Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

Paul Wargo Jr. Estate of Joseph Vossel Harold Gouker

D'Alessandro Properties & Dev. LL Stephanie Lasich Mark Pogany and Harley Anne Allen Madeline Sporio Donald and Madalen Hoover

633 Farnsworth Ave. $15,000 1902 Polk Ave. $7,500 301 N. Fourth St. $5,500 875 Vankirk St. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $5,850).

132 New Jersey Ave. $13,500 406 Walnut Ave. $16,500 540 Ninth St. $37,000 101 N. Third St. $15,100 511-513 N. State St. $28,000

SOUTH PARK Tom Colella Inc. Heartland Homes Inc. Eric Spath Christina Burke Donna Skinta Stephanie Lammie aka Eiler Davd Ray Sandra Holmes

True North Properties LLC Tahir Mehmood John Carpinelli and Jessica Miklavic Eric and Emily Spath Nationstar Mortgage LLC Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trustee Amy Marie Piett and Mark Molly Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Dolores Circle 1191 Snee Drive 6488 Second St. 957 Holly Lynne Drive 2885 Amy Drive 6335 Helen St. 6574 Zupancic Drive 1718 Queens Drive

PLEASANT HILLS Robinson Fore Inc. David Reiss Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

Laverne Davenport

Glenn and Amy Labosco Kelly Collins Brooke Froehlich Kevin Cusick and Lisa Purtell

180 Roinson Drive 126 Senate Drive 325 Tara Drive 357 Temona Drive

When “That will never happen to me” happens.

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$12,000 $295,499 $111,000 $175,000 $1,684 by sheriff's deed. $1,856 by sheriff's deed. $148,900 $2,975 by sheriff's deed. $61,000 $129,000 $110,000 $180,000

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

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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

March 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

JEFFERSON HILLS Maronda Homes Inc. Maronda Homes Inc. Louise Harris Southersby Development Corp.

Maronda Homes Inc. Castor Farm Assoc. Inc. Southersby Development Corp.

Chad and Stephanie Appelt Marc and Tatiana Ziegler Bryan Baldauf NVR Inc. Andrew Robert Binek & Malinda Readshaw Donald and Catherine Housley NVR Inc.

27 Beagle Court 256 Pointer Drive 1643 Route 885 Independence Drive 137 Retriever Lane 4024 Castor Lane Taft Court

$270,609 $254,915 $91,000 $39,000 $250,750 $82,000 $49,000

NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP Kenneth Foster Jr. Kenneth Foster

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

Albert and Kathleen Bornemann

110 Fox Trot Drive Fox Trot Drive

$1,748 by sheriff's deed. $162,000

PETERS TOWNSHIP Ethel May Lindley Karen S P Kennell

William and Cecilia Pisarcik Karen S P Kennell and Kenneth Burney

Waldwell Group Fozco Vaughn Swartz Han Park Wadwell Group Frank Jezioro Linda Taylor Linda Taylor Evergreen Village Condom. Assoc.

NVR Inc. Scooter Properties LLP Keith and Mary Glivic John and Susan Quinlan NVR Inc. Bryan Barbour Tri River Design & Construction Inc. Tri River Design & Construction Inc. Central Penn Capital Management

367 Bower Hill Road $30,000 222 Clubview Drive $10 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $71,115).

Cortland Drive $240,000 1115 Hidden Valley Road $369,000 314 Molly Drive $448,000 106 Platinum Place $625,000 Rocky RIdge Road $91,325 204 Royalbrooke Drive $281,000 Turkeyfoot Road $150,000 Turkeyfoot Road $150,000 318 Village Green Drive $215,731

/FFER %XPIRES -ARCH

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

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

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller Anchor Corporate Develop. LLC et al.

Stambrosky Homes Inc. Benjamin Marcus Homes LLC Gerald Getz Pamela Zillifro Paul Reiber James Galloway Joel Daoust Cartus Corp. LLC Ann Meyers Bayard Crossing Corp.

Timothy Diener Linda Powell Thomas Mowchan Paul Salvatora et al.

Heartland Homes Inc. Susan Menzer et al.

Della Kairys Revocable Trust

Buyer Winfield Holdings LLC Robert and Denise Mulholland Vincent and Kelly Trupiano Shawn and Natasha Shipman David and Kristin Mareska Timothy and Gretchen Stewart John Folino Cartus Corp. LLC Raoul Martin and Margaret Blouin Nathan and Keri McCloskey NVR Inc. Carrilee Hemington Doug Strott Scott and Aycia Klipstine Marjorie Dickson and Richard Slazinski Marilyn Magnotti M3 Appalachia Gathering LLC Ryan Isaac Kanto and Sarah Sibley Kanto

Address Washington Road 304 Braeburn Drive 325 Buckingham Drive 320 Bunker Hill Drive 145 Hemlock Drive 237 Roscommon Place 125 Bridle Trail 346 Buffalo Ridge Road 346 Buffalo Ridge Road 124 Canterbury Lane Overlook Drive 140 Scott Lane 211 Village Green Drive 303 Friar Lane 106 Sherwood Drive 164 Shoreline Drive 976 Venetia Road 105 Wilhaven Road

Price

Now find R e from transact alStats ions your comm our www website! unity on .

Sea unionfin Visit Trans rch our R ley.com. eal acti curre ons page Estate nt an and home d archive find d sales .

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.

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

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

$8,320,000 $622,500 $948,000 $460,000 $375,000 $231,000 $344,000 $364,450 $364,450 $288,500 $84,855 $117,500 $365,000 $269,000 $222,000 $438,303 $165,000 $195,000

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

March 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

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

First United Methodist Church of Monongahela Lists Upcoming Events Join us to worship God and to walk with Christ at The First United Methodist Church of Monongahela located at 430 W. Main St., Monongahela with Rev. Ronald E. Fleming.

Sunday Morning Worship Service Schedule: 8:15 a.m. - Coffee and Conversation in the Chapel 8:45 a.m. - Early Worship in the Chapel 9:45 a.m. - Christian Education Classes for all ages 10:45 a.m. - Coffee and Conversation in the Chapel 11:00 a.m. - Morning Worship in the Sanctuary The church is sponsoring a free soup and sandwich lunch on Saturday, March 10 and again on Saturday, April 14 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. `Beginning on Ash Wednesday our church will again host Wednesday Lenten Luncheons of the Monongahela Ministerium. Many churches in our area will take turns providing the lunch and leading the worship service in our chapel after the meal. The cost of the meal is $3.

The schedule for the Lenten Luncheons: March 7 - First Christian Church March 14 - First Presbyterian Church March 21 - St. Paul's Anglican March 28 - St. Damien of Molichi April 4 - not yet determined Our church will host the community Good Friday Service this year on Friday, April 6 from 12 until 3 p.m.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Brentwood March Events and Happenings St. Peter’s Episcopal Church is located at 4048 Brownsville Road. Please call the church at 412-884-5225 or visit our website at www.stpetersbrentwood.org. Volunteer opportunities are available for nearly all events.

The first Sunday (of the month), March 4, the church offers a particularly youth-oriented and kid-friendly service at 10:30 a.m.

All Wednesdays in Lent, please join us for Lenten Potluck at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please visit our website at www. stpetersbrentwood.org.

All Thursdays in Lent, please join us to walk the Stations of the Cross at 7 p.m.

St. Peter’s Youth Group (SPYG) will meet March 7 for fun, faith and food, and will volunteer on March 4 at Shepherd’s Heart.

SPYG is open to all teens in middle and high school. For more information, please visit our website.

Babysitting will be offered Friday, March 16, from 6 to 10:30 p.m. PThe cost is $3 per hour for first child in a family, $2 for second child and $1 for each additional child.

“Take Control of Your Finances” simulcast will be presented by Dave Ramsey on March 17 from 11:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $39. For more information, please call the church at 412- 884-5225, or visit daveramsey.com/simulcast.

Zumba Classes are held on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. $6 per person.

All are invited to Morning Coffee at St. Peter's, a bereavement resource group, sponsored by John Slater Funeral Home. It meets on the second Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at the church. If you have questions, email communityservice@johnfslater.com, or contact the church, and we will put you in touch. Upcoming dates are March 8 and April 12.

Overeaters Anonymous meets at St. Peter’s most every Sunday evening at 7 p.m.

For more information, please contact the church.

“Worship 4 2Day” at the Hamilton Presbyterian Church An exciting new opportunity is available at Hamilton Presbyterian Church in Bethel Park. For those of you who would like to worship but are unable to do so on Sunday mornings, Hamilton now has an evening service, open to all who want to worship God. The new service is called “Worship 4 2Day” and starts at 7:07 p.m. every Sunday.

This will allow us to offer two completely different worship options to meet the needs of our community and our members, as we will still offer the traditional 11 a.m. worship service every Sunday morning, along with the alternative service Sunday evening at 7:07 p.m.

The evening service is contemporary in nature. Live musicians will play every Sunday. Preaching is informal, outside of the pulpit, with communion being offered frequently.

Sisters of St. Francis Offers Take-Out Menu March 14

Jefferson United Methodist Church Hosts Bake Sale

If you are fasting, or are just looking for a good meatless meal, look no further than the Sisters of St Francis of the Providence of God in Whitehall. For their monthly takeout on Wednesday, March 14, the Sisters will be offering haluski, a traditional dish of cabbage and noodles sautéed in butter and seasonings. The menu also includes a meatless vegetable lentil soup and a traditional wedding soup with chicken and meatballs.

All selections are $5 a quart with 2 dinner rolls. The Sisters Craft Shoppe will also be open. Crafts offered include Steelers items, hand knitted market bags, decorations, jewelry, crocheted blankets and the famous “scrubbers”—hand-crocheted pot scrubbers. For more information, call 412-8857232 or visit www.osfprov.org.

Jefferson United Methodist Church, located at 310 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills, will be having a bake sale on Saturday, March 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mia Bella Candles and Popcorn Shirts will also be available for purchase. You can pre-Order Easter rolls: apricot and nut rolls are $9; poppy seed rolls are $10. Deadline to order is Monday, March 26, and pick up date is Saturday, March 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To place an order, call 412 653-3222, option #3.

Join Crossroads Ministries for Easter Egg-stravanganza Come to Crossroads Ministries’ annual Easter Egg-stravanganza on Saturday, March 31 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This is free event for families with children ages 1 through grade 5. Activities are as follows: Games and cake walk - 10 to 11 a.m. in the gym Crafts and puppet show - 11 a.m. to 12 noon in the church Easter egg hunt - 12 noon in the gym, rain or shine.

For more information, please visit our website at www.crossroadsministries.com.

Nativity Parish Presents 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.

Elizabeth United Methodist Church Fish Fry Elizabeth United Methodist Church, 317 Second Avenue, Elizabeth, will have fish frys each Friday during Lent through March 30. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., and dinner is from 4 - 7 p.m. Dine-in or take-out. For faster service, call ahead for take-out at 412-384-7050. Available items include a fish dinner, shrimp dinner, or combo dinner for $7 - $9. Dinners include one side, coleslaw, roll, cake and beverage.

Fish sandwiches are $6, clam chowder, mac and cheese, haluski, coleslaw, or French fries are $2 each. Cake is $1. Dine-in beverages are free.

Upcoming Events at The Chapel of Oneness Sunday Services Every Sunday - 10:30 a.m. to noon, we gather to act as conduits to heal and be healed. We meditate. We share in a lesson of faith. We sing. We give messages. We celebrate spirit!

10:30 a.m. - Meditation 10:45 a.m. - Healing 11:00 a.m. - Lesson, prayer, announcements 11:50 a.m. - Gallery messages Psychic Development Classes Every Tuesday, we have psychic development classes from 7 to 9 p.m. and give messages.

Reiki Share Every Thursday night from 7 to 9 p.m., come and join us for a Reiki Share where we give and receive Reiki energy.

Everyone is welcome.

See www.thechapelofoneness.com for other events.

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

unionfinley.com 45 LOCAL WORSHIP UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

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

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

Enthroned! A Hearts to Worship Women’s Ministry Event will be held from 7-9 p.m. Friday, March 2. Praise and worship by Paul Housman and team.

Care for Caregivers, an Alzheimer’s support group, is held from 10-11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 3 and the first Saturday of each month.

Nothing’s Too Hard For God, the Sunday sermon series taught at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

by Pastor Jack Stepp, continues Sunday, March 4 with “No Illness is Too Difficult.”

God’s Most Prized Possession adult Bible teaching meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, in the 5th grade room. The free program is open to all adults.

HonorBound Men’s Ministry will hold a free men’s fellowship breakfast from 9 - 11 a.m. Saturday, March 10.

The Girls’ Connection Youth Group will sponsor a Winter Carnival for a Cause from 2 - 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 10. There will be food, games, crafts, face painting, laser tag, clowns, balloons, entertainment and more! All proceeds go to help us rescue a child and build a well in Africa.

“Lunch Bunch” Bible study and luncheon for ages 65+ meets from noon to 2 p.m.

Thursday, March 15.

Women Arise monthly meeting with worship, teaching and fellowship will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 15.

Healthy Connections Free Conference & Fair will be held from 9 a.m. - 12 noon on Saturday, March 17. Four tracks will be presented: Senior Living (maintain your brain, senior resource help, communicating w/dementia patients), Personal Best (untangling relationships, overcoming anxiety/depression, financial health), Marriage and Love (five love languages, communication, conflict resolution), and Parenting (child development stages, creative discipline, boundaries w/kids).

HOPE Cancer Support Group meets at 7 p.m. Monday, March 19, in the prayer room.

Jeremiah 29:11 Employment Transition Group is a support group for those who are searching for jobs. Network with others for prayer and encouragement from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20. Facilitators assist with resume writing, interview skills.

Join with other young adults ages 18-35 at 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 20 for Collision, an awesome worship and devotion night, a night that’s all about God!

The Ultimate Preschool Playday for children ages two through kindergarteners will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 24.

MMJF, an outreach of Come Together in Jesus’ Name, is a non-denominational ministry and open to all. For information, call Virgie Vidil at 412-384-4882 or Dolly Schneider at 412-384-6361.

March 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 and 11 a.m. with Communion served at the early service. Dates to remember: • Reverend Richard "Skip" Noftzger is our new interim minister and will preach at all services.

• Friday, March 9 is the date for our rescheduled Games Night. All are invited.

• Saturday, March 10 will be a church retreat.

• Girl Scout Sunday will be March 11, with our Girl Scouts participating in the service.

• Sunday, March 25 will be a church-wide congregation meeting.

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

• Signups for our summer mission trip to Louisiana continue.

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

• The Center Christian Preschool program has classes for children ages 2-5 Monday through Friday.

• 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.

• Pittsburgh Chinese Academy meets every Saturday.

• Junior and senior high school 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.

Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church Launches New Website The Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church proudly announces the launch of their new website, http://peterscreekupc.blogspot.com. The site has been in the works for several months and includes church updates, a photo gallery, a monthly newsletter, a calendar of events, a section on the church’s beliefs, weekly church bulletins, a church history section, and an interactive blog.

Peters Creek U.P. Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church U.S.A. (PCUSA) and has been designated by Washington Presbytery as part of a New Church Development. As such, the church is striving to adopt new programs that reach out to the community. One such undertaking is the Food and Friends free meal program, which is held the first and third Thursday of each month from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in conjunction with Thomas Presbyterian Church at the Christian Life Center, 1068 Linden Road in Thomas. All are invited to come and enjoy a fine meal, while getting to know some new friends. The meal is free but donations are accepted. There are also plans to begin a regular mid-week Bible Study, as well as two seminar series this spring.

The congregation of Peters Creek U.P. Church worships at the Venetia Community Center, the former Venetia Elementary School, located at 800 Venetia Road in Venetia. Services are held each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to join us afterwards for Sunday Brunch at 11 a.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month in the meeting room of King’s Family Restaurant on Route 19 at McClelland Road in North Strabane. Our pastor is the Rev. Dr. John Wiebe, and our pianist is Amy Doria. Feel free to contact us at 412-420-9506 or by email at peterscreekmail@gmail.com.

Fish Fry Scheduled at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Monongahela 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 all Fridays during Lent. Eat-in or takeout available. For more information, call 724-258-7792.

Wrights United Methodist Church March Events Wrights United Methodist will be holding a breakfast with the Easter Bunny on Saturday, March 24. Kids will enjoy breakfast, games, an Easter egg hunt and even a visit from a special bunny! Call 724-3485718 to register your children.

MMJF Elizabeth Chapter March Meeting Millie Thomas will be ministering at the Elizabeth Chapter of Mary & Martha Joy Fellowship (MMJF) meeting in Round Hill Presbyterian Church on Monday, March 19.

Fellowship at 6:30 p.m., with the meeting starting at 7 p.m.

MMJF Monongahela Chapter Invites All to March Meeting The Monongahela chapter of the Mary and Martha Joy Fellowship (MMJF) will hold its monthly meeting of praise and worship in the Parlor of The First Presbyterian Church of Monongahela, PA, located at the corner of Sixth, Main and Chess Streets, on Thursday evening, March 1, 2012. There will be refreshments and fellowship at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting starts at 7 p.m. There is no charge, but a free-will offering will be taken. Our guest speaker will be Rev. Georgia A. Morris. MMJF, an outreach of Come Together in Jesus’ Name, is a nondenominational ministry and open to all.

For further information, please call one of the following: Virgie Vidil at 412-384-4882, Dorothy Passarello at 724-258-6143 or Barbara Simpson at 724-258-4293.

Perrys Perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy The Perrys will be in concert at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy in New Eagle on Saturday, March 17 at 7 p.m.

The Perrys are known as one of the top groups in Southern Gospel Music today. In the 40 years that the Perrys have been on the road, sharing with audiences night after night, God has been faithful to provide them with everything they need to build their ministry into what it is today. From the moving lyrics of traditionally based songs, talented vocalists and musicians, to a genuine heart for the people touched so deeply by their music, throughout the years the Perrys have proven that they have what it takes to rise to the top of Southern Gospel music, and what a journey it has been.

The concert is free and a love offering will be taken. The church is located at 411 4th Ave., New Eagle. For more information, please contact Pastor Tom Stine at 724-6621259.

SEND US YOUR CHURCH NEWS!

Email: news@unionfinley.com

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

March 2012 LOCAL WORSHIP UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

Souper Bowl of Caring Since his hip replacement, Bob has gotten a real lift.

Bob Stoehr Hip replaced in July On the slopes by December

After 25 years of skiing, Bob

His new hip meant a return to his

didn’t want pain to keep him off

old form. When his surgery and

the hills. But his hips just weren’t

rapid rehab recovery were done,

cooperating. He tried to put off

Bob was ready to hit the slopes.

surgery, but when push came to

And with just a few trips down the

shove, he knew he wanted to trust

hills, he felt his skiing instincts

the future of his fun on the slopes

taking over since his pain was

to the best team he could find.

gone. He’s so grateful that he never

After talking to his friends, Bob

had to miss even one season of

knew exactly what to do.

what he enjoys the most.

St. Francis Parish Youth Group Work to Stop Hunger

By Paul Chasko

Members of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Youth Group spent time on Super Bowl weekend collecting funds after Masses in support of the “Souper Bowl of Caring”.

“Souper Bowl of Caring” is a national movement of young people working to fight hunger and poverty in their own communities around the time of the Super Bowl football game. In the weeks leading up to or on Super Bowl Sunday, Bethany Lewis, flanked by Elizabeth Abbott and young people take up a collection John Schneider, hopes to fill her “souper bowl” (many use a soup pot), asking for one with dollars for the hungry. dollar or one item of food for people in need. They give 100% of their donation directly to the local hunger-relief charity of their choice. The St. Francis Youth Group works with the Finleyville Food Bank, both in their collection efforts and in providing helping hands when needed.

In 2011, more than 260,000 youth participated, collecting more than $9.5 million in dollars and food for local hunger-relief charities – a total of over $81 million since the movement began in 1990. Part of the movement mission statement is that young people have the ability to serve and should be given the opportunity to lead their communities in helping others.

Blurred Vision?

TOLD YOU HAVE CATARACTS?

412-466-6800 To learn what Magee’s Bone and Joint Center can do to treat your arthritis, hip, knee or back pain,

call 412-641-8150 or visit UPMC.com/MageeBoneandJointCenter.

THE BONE AND JOINT CENTER AT

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

Dr. Thomas Findlan

www.pitteye2020.com

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

unionfinley.com 47 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER——————————————————————————————————————————

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; 48 unionfinley.com

FITNESS CLASSES BEGIN NEW CYCLE AT MON VALLEY YMCA The Mon Valley YMCA begins a new 8 week session of Balanced Body and Zumba classes on March 5. The Balanced Body Program, free to members and with a nominal fee for nonmembers, offers 40 weekly classes for all fitness levels.

Low intensity, beginner-level classes include YogaStretch on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. and Muscular Strength and Range of Motion on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. These classes work on posture, breathing, balance, strength and flexibility.

March 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;

Higher intensity classes include Basic Training on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6 p.m., which utilizes kettlebells, medicine balls, and heavy ropes. Total Body Training also offers participants a class to challenge their strength and endurance on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. Cardio Kick held on Tuesdays at 5:45 p.m. incorporates kick boxing moves into the workout.

Group cycle classes, appropriate for most fitness levels are offered 9 times per week. Everyone can pedal their way to good health on Mondays and Fridays at 6 a.m., Mondays through Thursdays at 5:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m., Mondays at 7:15 p.m., and Saturdays at 9 a.m.

Other moderate intensity classes

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include Strut, a low impact cardio class held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. and Step Aerobics held on Mondays at 7:15 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m. CardioFit, on Tuesdays, and Senior Swing, on Thursdays, offer the older active adults a chance to increase their endurance and burn calories.

These classes begin at 10:30 a.m.

Zumba is offered eight times per week. Beginner Zumba is held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. for those new to this Latin-inspired dance fitness class. Those ready to jump right in and shake it up can try it on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 5:45 p.m., Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m.

Check the complete schedule of classes at monvalleyymca.org.

TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS CLASS STARTS MARCH 14 Spring sessions for Tai Chi for Arthritis at the Outpatient Care Center - Peters Township, West Penn Allegheny Health System will begin on March 14. This six-week program is designed to help individuals suffering from arthritis relieve pain and swelling with exercise and meditation.

Tai Chi is an activity that improves balance, strength and coordination while teaching relaxation, helping patients who experience stiffness and discomfort associated with arthritis.

The course is sponsored by WPAHS' Integrated Medicine Program and Lupus Center of Excellence in cooperation with the Arthritis Foundation. The workshops will be led by J. Gurney Bolster, a certified fitness instructor with a master's degree in dance and movement therapy.

For more information, or to register for Tai Chi for Arthritis, call 412-DOCTORS (362.8677).

COMMUNITY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS Growing Through Grief: Rebuilding Hope is a six-week bereavement program offered free for anyone coping with the loss of a loved one. Experienced bereavement counselors create a welcome setting for those dealing with a difficult loss. Two sessions are scheduled: Jefferson Regional Medical Center, located at 565 Coal Valley Road, at the James Bibro Pavilion Conference Center on Mondays, April 9 - May 15 (May 15 is a Tuesday) from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Southminster House, located at 801 Washington Road, on Wednesdays, April 18 - May 23 from 1 - 3 p.m.

Space is limited to the first 25 attendees. Pre-registration is required. To register, please call the Family Hospice Bereavement Department at 412-5728829, or visit www.familyhospice.com.

Ongoing Support Groups: The Center for Compassionate Care, located at 50 Moffett Street, Mt. Lebanon on the third Monday of every month from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Southminster House, located at 801 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon on the second Tuesday of every month from 1 2:30 p.m.

Baldwin Community United Methodist Church, located at 5001 Baptist Road, Whitehall on the first Wednesday of every month from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

All groups listed are free to the public.

No registration required. For more information on these South Hills support groups, contact the Family Hospice Bereavement Department at 412-5728829.

Email your events to news@unionfinley.com

unionfinley.com 49 March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— HEALTH UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

Monongahela Valley Hospital Provides Comfort Kits for Young Patients A mother herself, Kelly Macheska, R.N., manager of Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED), knows all too well that an ambulance ride, a major medical procedure, or a visit to the ED can be a scary experience for children.

Macheska recently connected with a Connecticut company and secured 100 Guideposts for Kids Comfort Kits to help her young patients at MVH relax and feel less frightened.

Guideposts Outreach, a non-denominational, faith-based organization, distributes the kits to help children ages 4 to 13 through trying health care situaPlaying the patient, Stevie Macheska, age 7, tions. She said her staff gives the kits to places a sticker from the comfort kit he received children who are admitted to MVH and at MVH onto the lab coat of Emergency Department physician Sahadev Reddy M.D. to any child having a procedure in the Mother of the patient and ED Manager Kelly ED such as a lab draw or a CT scan. She Macheska (center) watch with Guideposts outsaid the kits help distract children and reach volunteer Joyce C. Krauchuk (right). take their minds off of their fears, their predicaments and any discomfort.

Macheska said her staff has already used the first 100 kits and she’s ordered another 100.

The kits, which cost Guideposts Outreach approximately $8 each, come with a sturdy, colorful keepsake box to store the contents plus a child’s other personal possessions. Other treasures include stickers, an inspirational prayer card, a special care journal with crayons to write or color, a personalized star sheet, a blue stress foam squeeze ball and a “My Special Care CD” with comforting music.

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, March 7 at 2 p.m. and repeated on Wednesday, March 21 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 guidelines. A question-andanswer session is also included.To register, call 1-888-877-5955 or 724-873-5955.

CGH OFFERS HEART SAVER CPR WITH AED TRAINING Canonsburg General Hospital will offer a HeartSaver CPR with AED (automated external defibrillator) Training class on Wednesday, March 7 from 6 - 9 p.m., in the McNary Conference Center.

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

Attendees will learn heart-saver, or adult, one-person CPR in addition to techniques for dealing with an obstructed airway; AED training; and relief of foreign body airway obstruction. 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.

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

March 2012 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER—————————————————————————————————————————— HEALTH

CANONSBURG GENERAL HOSPITAL OFFERS BASIC FIRST AID COURSE Canonsburg General Hospital will offer a Basic First Aid Course from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 3. The course instructor will teach proper first aid procedures for breathing emergencies and the care and treatment of bleeding, heart attacks, shock, wounds, poisoning, burns, bone fractures, frostbite and other medical emergencies.

This basic first aid course offers a two-year certification through the American Heart Association. The fee is $25 and includes a first aid manual. Please call tollfree 1-877-284-2000 to register for the program.

FIT TIP: What Causes the Heel Pain?

As a person gets older, the plantar fascia becomes less like a rubber band and more like a rope that doesn't stretch very well. The fat pad on the heel becomes thinner and can't absorb as much of the shock caused by walking. The extra shock damages the plantar fascia. Damage to the plantar fascia may cause it to swell, tear or bruise. You may notice a bruise on your heel or that your heel is swollen. Most people with plantar fasilitis say the pain is like a knife or a pin sticking into the bottom of the foot.

If you have either flat feet or a high arch, ask about using orthotics, or arch support inserts for your shoes. You will need to be fitted for them. For more information, call the Wellness Chiropractic Center at Southpointe at 724-743-4500.

MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL MARCH EVENTS Monongahela Valley Hospital is sponsoring a variety of informative programs during March. 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, March 1 at 1 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-258-1455.

INNOVATIONS IN SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER – Thursday, March 1 at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. Amanda M. Rush, M.D., an adult and child psychiatrist, will discuss the symptoms and treatments of SAD, a mood disorder. To register, call the MVH Reservation Hotline at 724-2581333.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR DIABETES MEDICATIONS – Thursday, March 1 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Gain a better understanding of how your diabetes medications work and learn the effects diabetes medications have on your blood sugar readings. Call 724258-1483 to register.

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, March 6 – 8 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. This is a three-day, two-hourper-day education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. To register, call 724-258-1483.

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION CLASS – Wednesday, March 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. Four-week series of prenatal education classes. Free to Valley Women’s Health patients and a small fee applies to nonpatients. Call 724-258-2229 ext. 25.

RSDS SUPPORT GROUP – Tuesday, March 13 at 11 a.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-929-9492.

AUXILIARY SOUP-ER LUNCHEON – Thursday, March 15 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. would love to have you join them for lunch in the comfort of the Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center.

.

OSTOMY SUPPORT GROUP – Thursday, March 15 at 2 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-258-1773.

MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE – Saturday, March 17 at 4:30 p.m., ECC. Musical Mysteries & More and the Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc., present “Thugs, Mugs and .38 Slugs.” Experience fun entertainment, a delicious meal and free parking. Tickets are $30. Call 724-9293192 for reservations and information.

BARIATRIC SURGERY INFORMATION SESSION – Tuesday, March 20 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. In cooperation with Magee-Women’s Hospital, MVH is offering a free informational program on bariatric surgery. Call 412-641-3632 or 412-802-8299 to register for this program.

MANAGING YOUR DIABETES – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, March 20 – 22 from 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. A three-day, twohour per day education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. To register, call 724-258-1483.

GENE AND BOOTS CANDY SALE – Thursday and Friday, March 22 – 23 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., ECC. An array of sweet treats and gifts will be available for purchase.

Free parking is available.

BREASTFEEDING CLASS – Monday, March 26 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. For more information, call 724-258-2229 ext. 25.

ADULT CPR INSTRUCTION – Tuesday, March 27 from 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. Adult CPR 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.

ADULT FIRST AID – Thursday, March 29 from 6 – 9 p.m., ECC. Adult first aid classes are offered by the hospital in conjunction with the Valley Health and Safety Training Center. $30 fee payable to To register, call 724-684-9536.

ADVANCED CARBOHYDRATE COUNTING – Wednesday, March 28 from 9 – 11 a.m., ECC. Diabetes self-management class that focuses on carb counting. To register, call 724-258-1148.

BARIATRIC SURGERY INFORMATION SESSION – Thursday, March 29 from 6 – 8 p.m., ECC. In cooperation with MageeWomen’s Hospital, MVH is offering a free informational program on bariatric surgery.

Call 412-641-3632 or 412-802-8299 to register.

MULTIPHASIC BLOOD ANALYSIS – Saturday, March 31 from 7 to 10 a.m., ECC. This 36-function screening costs only $25.

Testing will take place in the Community Room. To register, call 724-258-1282.

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Seniors FOREVER YOUNG â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH EVENTS Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s getting closer to spring and nicer weather but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always fair weather for our â&#x20AC;&#x153;Forever Youngâ&#x20AC;&#x153; group. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be meeting every Tuesday during March. We get together at 10:00 am at the Finleyville Community Center.

The first three Tuesdays will be our catered lunches. March 13 will be our monthly grocery bingo. Bingo is played every Tuesday with three â&#x20AC;&#x153;Early Birdâ&#x20AC;? games at 10:30. Lunch is at noon. On March 20 during our regular meeting, Leslie Wright from Prime Time Health will take up duties once again as our guest speaker. Our covered dish dinner will be held on March 27 chaired by Rosemarie.

A happy March Birthday to Louise Carden.

Time waits for no one. Treasure every moment you have â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Think Happy!

unionfinley.com 51 SPORTS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER 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;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘

â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘

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

As usual we have two luncheons coming upâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the first one is on March 8, and the second one is scheduled for March 22.

The first luncheon on March 8 will feature speaker Sam Bear from Senior Life, which helps people to age in place (wherever you live at home or in an apartment).

Question-and-answer period with refreshments and desserts to make a more interesting program. Everyone is welcome. All you need to do is make the required reservation by calling Erma Grego at 724-941-6956.

The second luncheon is scheduled for March 22 and will feature Master Gardener Coordinator Laura Delach from Penn State. Her topic will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;How we can start our gardening plans and dreams?â&#x20AC;?

A special thank you goes to Girl Scout Troop #51915, under the leadership of Susan Early, for all the beautiful decorations for Valentine's Day. It really adds a festive flair to our meetings.

Birthdays for March are as follows: Johanna Buri, Evelyn Jozekowiz, and Marion Spar. Happy Birthday and many more!

Blood pressure screenings are done from 11 a.m. to noon at both luncheons and are a great and important service in which to take part.

State Representative Rick Saccone and his wife joined the residents of Mt. Vernon of South Park Senior Living for a Valentine Bingo. Rep. Saccone called the numbers and brought prizes for all participants.

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School News dated January 12 indicated that many repairs would be needed and contained a long list of deficiencies in each building and cost estimates to complete 1) bare bones repairs and 2) extensive repairs and renovations to bring the buildings “up to code,” including ADA compliancy (see table).

Ringgold School Board Actions Questioned Union & Nottingham Parents Steamed Over Loss of Control A motion to reopen two run-down, 80-year-old buildings previously closed by the prior Ringgold School Board has sidetracked a forward-moving plan that would have satisfied Ringgold School District facility requirements for the next 25 to 30 years.

Here was the plan as proposed and put in place by the prior board.

• Close the Carroll Middle School and completely renovate the building, converting it to a modern elementary center. This was accomplished.

• Close the Monongahela and Donora Elementary centers (MEC and DEC), moving students to either the Ringgold Elementary School North (RESN) in Gastonville or the Ringgold Elementary School South (RESS) – the renovated Carroll Twp. Middle School. This was accomplished.

• Acquire property and build a new middle school somewhere in the district with a section to include offices for the administration.

• Close the existing Finley Middle School and the existing administration building.

• Expand the RESN (Gastonville) to include six additional classrooms.

• Dispose (by sale) all old buildings not in use (Finley Middle School, the current administration building in New Eagle, DEC and MEC).

• Renovate the RESN (Gastonville), bringing it to the same condition and quality as the RESS in Carroll Twp. It was a great plan that would have eliminated the need for major projects for another 25 to 30 years and minimized operating costs–what happened?

Step 1 and 2 of the plan were completed. The renovation of the old Carroll Middle School was completed as planned and named Ringgold Elementary School South (RESS). The RESS was opened for use in the fall of 2011 and is a gem of a school—ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant and meeting all modern safety and health codes with up-to date electronic learning systems. It’s the one significant and notable accomplishment of the prior school board.

Step 3 was tough. The prior school board dithered on a location and design of the new middle school building for over a year, and the momentum was lost.

The plan was further stymied by a recession that triggered cutbacks in state and federal funding for new construction. The prior school board passed the baton to a new school board that has a much more conservative plan—patch up what we have and make it do. There are three remaining members from the prior school board that are trying to revive the original development plan in some form, but they are now the minority. They’d like to leave things in the status quo for several years building up the district’s capital reserves, but the new board majority instead elected to scrap the plan.

Late in 2011, the board authorized the district architect engineering firm, HHSDR, to evaluate reopening the old MEC and DEC buildings for use. The report

DEC MEC

Age Yrs.

Bare Bones Repairs 5-10 Yr. Life

81 87

$ 4,466,000 $5,498,000 $9,964,000

Extensive Renovation 25-30 Yr. Life $13,728,000 $16,307,000 $30,035,000

The estimates in the above table are from the HHSDR report. The “extensive renovation” column does include ADA compliance. Neither column includes financing costs. The two buildings are in bad shape. In this case, “patching it up” will be pretty expensive to extend the building life for only 5 to 10 years (according to HHSDR report).

At the February 15 board meeting, the “new majority board” passed a motion directing HHSDR to work with the Facilities Committee to develop the scope of work to be performed to the MEC and DEC buildings to house grades 5-8 and, after approval of the work scope by the board, to develop construction documents and bid packages for all related work.

Why don’t Nottingham and Union townships have representation on the board?

No one from the two townships chose to run. If a return to strictly “regional representation” is desired, a voter referendum will have to dictate the change, and new candidates will need to step forth. Meanwhile, the sitting board is following its own plan.

Go to our website www.unionfinley.com and search on “Ringgold Facilities News” for more up-to-date details.

Ringgold High School Presents “On The Town” Ringgold High School presents Leonard Bernstein’s effervescent, feel good, full of dance, musical On The Town, featuring such classic hits as “New York, New York,” “Lonely Town,” “Some Other Time,” and “I Can Cook Too.” Performance times at the Ringgold High School auditorium are March 1 and 2 at 7 p.m. and March 3 at 2 p.m. All Seats are $5. Tickets can be purchased from cast members or at the door.

Students (front row) Walter Sloan, Haley Mendola, (back row) Sarah Krempasky, Jared Hancock, Eli Macugoski, and Olivia Meyer star in On The Town, presented at Ringgold High School March 1-3.

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Madonna Catholic Regional

SCHOOL NEWS MCRS Celebrates Catholic Schools Week

A group of Mrs. Miller's second grade students pose on "Career Day" during the annual Catholic Schools Week held in February at Madonna Catholic Regional School in Monongahela, PA. The entire school participated, and the students' career choices included doctors, nurses, police officers, chefs, musicians, teachers, trainers, and many more. Madonna Catholic Regional School is currently accepting registration for the 2012-2013 school year for Pre-school-8th grade. PHOTO BY MIRANDA STARTARE Three students from Mrs. Fusina's fourth grade class pose on "Career Day" in front of essays written by them and their classmates about their careers of choice.

Shown here from left to right are Frankie Startare (film director), Mickey Falappi (attorney), and Shane Simpson (archaeologist). PHOTO BY MIRANDA STARTARE

Madonna Catholic Regional School’s 2nd Quarter Honor Roll GRADE 8 Highest Honors - Maria Loftis and Katie Sendek High Honors - Michael Hudak and Taylor Smydo GRADE 7 Highest Honors - Matt Agostoni High Honors - Maggie Rider Honors - Isaac Petrosky, John Stablein and MacKenzie Stablein GRADE 6 Highest Honors - Jenna Albert, Sophie Burkholder, Gabrielle Fronzaglio, Sarah Grandinette, Aislyn Lee and Nathan Schollaert High Honors - Olivia Behanna, Rachael Funtal, Lena Galilei and Lindsey Koziel Honors - Taylor DeLattre, Christina Ferrari, Luke Greaves and Hannah Williams

A group of 4th graders don Valentine’s Day attire as they await their class party.

Cousins Lena Galilei and Maria Loftis pause for a picture at the MCRS Snow Ball Dance.

8th grade basketball players Katie Sendek and Erin Guzik were honored at their last home game.

Registration for students age 3 to Grade 8 is open at MCRS - located at 731 Chess St.

PETERS TOWNSHIP

SCHOOL NEWS The Gallery Features Photos by PTHS Students Students in the Peters Township High School photography classes will exhibit their work in the main lobby of the Peters Township Public Library until March 8 during library hours. “The Gallery” is a display of hundreds of student photographs from the classes and club at the high school. All are welcome to attend.

Over 100 students contributed work for this exciting event. The Photography Club officers are: CoPresidents, Jillian Eby and Allie Peters Township High School photography class Schlafman, and Board Members, Jenn students Reid Elattrache, Jenn Coffey and Allie Coffey, Emily Cocco, Reid Elattrache Schlafman prepare for “The Gallery” exhibit. and Sarah Yoest.

For more information about The Gallery, contact the club sponsor, Erin Boni, at bonie@pt-sd.org.

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Mt. Vernon Elementary Selected as Outstanding Title 1 School Mt. Vernon Elementary, part of the Elizabeth Forward School District, was recognized as an Outstanding Title I School at the Annual Pennsylvania Association of Federal Programs Coordinators Improving Schools Conference. The method of choosing Mt. Vernon is based on the PSSA scores from the Title I students at that building. The conference was held during the first week of February at Station Square in Pittsburgh.

Nicholas Fekula Selected to Play Football for Princeton Elizabeth Forward senior Nicholas Fekula signed a letter of intent to further his education and play football at Princeton University. Nicholas’s proud family joined him for the signing.

Mr. Fekula, Nicholas Fekula and Mrs. Fekula (seated), Head Football Coach Mr. LeDonne, and Natalie Fekula attended the signing to Princeton University.

Kickball for Kidneys Students at William Penn Elementary School of the Elizabeth Forward School District raised $1,445 to donate to The National Kidney Foundation. Mike Piper and Tony Seruga, pictured with physical education teacher Mr. Alper and Principal Mr. Simala, won the drawing for the autographed posters of Pittsburgh Steeler Mike Schneck.

Tap into the power of the Messenger.

Call today to learn more. 412.249.8177

Greenock’s January Hero Officer Ron Makosey Greenock School's Olweus Salute to Heroes continued with a presentation on Friday, January 31.

Officer Ron Makosey, representing the Elizabeth Township Police Department, talked with all students, stressing the importance of safety and that police officers are your friend. He spoke about being a good neighborhood citizen and that good citizens are not bullies. Officer Makosey reiterated Officer Makosey of the Elizabeth Police Department the four goals of the Olweus Bully Program and with Mrs. Kahler. explained to the students how important it is to always tell responsible adults when they see someone being bullied. Sincere thanks to the Elizabeth Township.

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

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

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New Bethel Park High School Opens

St. Joan of Arc

By Tracy Fedkoe

St. Joan of Arc Makes a Strong Showing at the PJAS St. Joan of Arc students walked away with four second-place awards and one first-place award at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science. Seventh grader Mary Kutschke won her first place award for her science project entitled "Regular-Fat vs. Low-Fat Foods". Twenty-two classmates participated in her study. Kutschke will be competing in the state finals.

SJA Students winning awards at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science are (top) Steven Ennis, Kiersten Lewis, Mary Kutschke, (bottom) Ty Brdar, and Emily Figliola.

Saint Joan of Arc Works on Service During Catholic Schools Week Saint Joan of Arc School students used Catholic Schools Week as an opportunity to give back to the community. Students and As part of Catholic Schools Week, (top) Desiree teachers spent the day making Saether, Maria Gagetta, Cheyanne Sorocman, Mrs. over 75 lunches for those in need.

Louann Davis (principal), (bottom) Cassidy Zandier, and Logan Pazin made lunches for those in need.

The younger students took time to decorate lunch bags for their prospective recipients. Students then took those lunches to the South Hill Interfaith Ministry to assist in distributing them.

Saint Katherine Drexel/Saint Joan of Arc Combined Team Takes Section Title The combined boys varsity basketball team SKD Dragons won their section by beating The SKD Dragons (top) Assistant Coach Ed Bigley, John St. Sylvester 57-35, bringing Selep (SKD), Coach Dave Pudup, Steve Ennis (SJA), their record to 12-1. Although Assistant Coach March Shrier, Andy Adamski (SKD), they play Bishop Leonard St. Assistant Coach Nick Valetti, (middle) Devin Gilfoyle Mary of the Mount next week, (SKD), Logan Beardsley (SKD), Joe Belmont (SJA), Carlos their win Saturday sends the Jess (SJA), (bottom) Nick Minshall (SJA), Michael Bigley (SKD), Scott Ennis (SJA), and Nick Westine (SJA).

Dragons to the playoffs.

Playoffs start the first weekend in March at Central Catholic High School. Once again, the Dragons "Bring the HEAT!" Way to go Dragons!

In February 2008, the Bethel Park Board of School Directors approved the construction of a new 326,000-squarefoot high school building, and almost exactly four years later the doors opened on January 30, 2012. The new school is one building, a huge change from the previous Bethel Park Campus built in 1959, which consisted of eight buildings. Several options were investiThe lobby features a 24-foot Blackhawk gated including renovating the old Mascot on terrazzo flooring. buildings and connecting the gym and auditorium with an academic wing, but a new construction was the most economic and least disruptive option. The total cost of the project will be nearly $91 million, paid for by a 25-year bond.

The new school is dedicated to Dr. Thomas Knight, former superintendent, who passed away in July and was instrumental in making this project happen.

The high school has many exciting features including a 1286-seat auditorium The new Bethel Park High School features a with orchestra pit and acoustic ceiling courtyard, which looks inviting from a 4th floor classroom. panels, a small theater/large group instruction room, television studio, and a 700-seat cafeteria with food court style serving lines. The athletic wing features a 2450-seat full-submersion gymnasium with 1/8 mile walking track around the top and a four-sided scoreboard. The swimming pool is eight lanes with two diving boards and has seating capacity for 286 spectators. The outdoor courtyard is equipped with tables for lunch and an outdoor theater or classroom.

The design was chosen to meet the educational needs of students in the future and foster collaborative learning. The academic wing features 96 classrooms on four floors, which are organized by subject area. Each classroom is equipped with an interactive projector with media controller that can turn any surface into a computer screen and the desks are five-sided to allow for flexible grouping.

Designed to be Green Globe certified, the building includes many energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly features, including a daylight harvesting system. During construction, 95% of the materials were recycled. Full completion of the project is expected in November 2012, when the existing buildings are removed to add additional practice fields and parking areas.

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— 56 unionfinley.com UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER ——————————————————————————————————————————

Section 4 Girls’ Hoops – Winter Wrap-up Second Gobbler Season Announced State Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, announced that Pennsylvania hunters will have the opportunity to harvest a second spring gobbler this season and to purchase a second tag. A second tag can be purchased until midnight on April 20, which is the day before the oneday season for junior license holders and those participating in the Mentored Youth hunting program. Through the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing System, hunters can now go to any licensing agent and purchase their second spring gobbler tag. Also, tags can be ordered online through the PA Game Commission’s website: www.pgc.state.pa.us.

General hunting license holders are entitled to take one spring gobbler per year. Those who decide to purchase the extra tag are extended the opportunity to bag two spring gobblers. However, hunters may only purchase a single extra tag, as the season bag limit remains at two spring gobblers per year. Daily bag limits also apply, where a hunter may take only one bird per day. The fee for this extra tag is $21.70 for Pennsylvania residents and $41.70 for non-residents.

The 2012 spring gobbler season is set to run from April 28 to May 31.

Legal shooting time for the first half of the season (April 28-May 12), as well as the April 21 youth hunt, lasts from one-half hour before sunrise until noon. The second half of the season (May14-31), shooting hours are extended to one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour past sunset.

South Park Roller Hockey League to Hold Registration for 2012 Season The South Park Roller Hockey League (SPRHL) will have registration events on the following dates: • Thursday, March 15 at the South Park Community Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, March 28 at the South Park Community Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Registration forms can be found at www/eteamz.com/sprhl. New players must show proof of age with birth certificate. Returning players may send in their registration form to the address indicated on form.

Age groups are as follows: 18 & under, 14 & under, 12 & under, 10 & under, and Learn To Play.

Cost is $85 for Learn to Play; all others, $125.

Season begins with skill skate for team placement during the week of April 16.

Games begin in May. Any questions can be directed to Darren Marynchak at 412-348-4911 or dmarynchak@comcast.net or Brian Campolong at 412-854-2067 or bjcampolong@verizon.net. Anyone interested in coaching or helping with the league should contact Darren or Brian.

Bentworth, Monessen and South Park Win Section Championships

By Paul Chasko

Local girls’ varsity basketball teams have wrapped up regular season play with 3 teams bringing home the gold as section champions and 11 out of 15 local teams making the WPIAL playoffs.

Every year at this time, I pull together the standings of the 16 varsity teams that are local to the “Messenger” readership. This season, the local girls’ basketball teams did well. “Messenger” congratulations go out to the girls’ basketball teams of Bentworth, Monessen and South Park – the 2011-2012 champions of their sections.

The Lady Eagles of South Park continued their winning tradition with a 10-0 section record and 19-1 overall regular season record - a really impressive season. They locked up the Section 4 AAA Championship several weeks back. This team will be a top seed in the WPIAL playoffs games and will be a strong contender for the AAA State Championship. Their scoring ratio against section teams was 1.70.

Our congratulations also go out to the Lady Greyhounds of Monessen. At 12-0 in Section 4A and 18-3, overall they’ll certainly be a threat to other teams making the WPIAL playoff games. With a scoring ratio of 2.25/1 against section opponents, they should do well in the playoffs. Their only close game of the season was a defensive win against Clairton 39-32. The Greyhounds may see the Clairton girls again in the playoffs.

The Bentworth Lady Bearcats shot well enough all season to come out on top, winning the Section 4AA Championship. Their defense allowed

Ringgold gets a shot against the South Park defense.

South Park defends on a Ringgold drive in a mid-season game.

the scoring ratio to drop down to 1.35/1 in play against section opponents. This may come back to bother them in the playoffs, where they’re certain to see some hot shooting teams. They had problems defending against both Washington and Beth Center.

As the playoffs progress, you can keep track of your favorites on www.unionfinley.com. And look for updates here.

Go to our website at www.unionfinley.com for summery for local season

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

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Local High School Boys’ Basketball Wrap-up Bentworth, Clairton, Monessen and Serra Catholic Win Section Championships

By Paul Chasko

Local boys’ varsity basketball teams have wrapped up regular season play. Some are in the WPIAL playoffs and are looking forward to the state PIAA playoffs. At least four teams have a good chance of advancing into the PIAA tournament.

Here’s a snapshot look at how local boys’ varsity basketball teams did during the regular season. I’ve included Serra Catholic as a local team because it’s the closest Catholic high school and many local kids attending Serra. “Messenger” congratulations Tough to get a shot off over a tall go out to the teams, coaches, parents and school guard in this early season game. administrators of Bentworth, Clairton, Serra Catholic and Monessen for winning their section championships. With identical section records, Clairton and Serra boys‘ teams are sharing the Section 4A championship.

The close of the boys’ regular season followed the Monessen girls’ last game, but it was already evident that Monessen High School made a WPIAL clean sweep in basketball. The Monessen girls won the 4A Section Championship with a 12-0 record. The Monessen boys won the Section 3AA championship, also with a 12-0 record in regular season play. The boys’ team scoring ratio against section opponents was 1.44 with Wilkinsburg (75-72) and Seton LaSalle (60-56) posing the only real threats to Monessen’s unbeaten record.

Not to be outdone, the Bentworth boys’ team also finished unbeaten in Section

3A. Their trophy will match that of the Bentworth girls’ basketball team, which won the Section 4AA Championship – they’ll make a nice set of bookends in the Bentworth trophy cabinet. The Bentworth boys’ team outshot their section opponents by a 1.46 scoring ratio, with Eric Schoedel accounting for a good portion of the points scored. We’ll be looking to see if Bentworth can extend their scoring into the post season.

Serra Catholic and Clairton are sharing the Section 4A Championship spotlight – both with identical 9-1 section records. Not surprisingly, their only losses came against each other. Other section games for these two teams were pretty much in the bag. The season for Clairton came down to the last game of the year – against Serra. They lost an earlier game against Serra 63-65, and another loss would lose the championship. The stakes for this February 10 game couldn’t have been higher. Clairton’s aggressive play won this game 76-64 and a share of the Section 4A Championship – what an exciting finish for both of these great teams. They’ll see each other again in the post season.

Check back with us on our website www.unionfinley.com and click on sports to get updates of local teams in post-season basketball. You’ll also find section results - find how your local teams did in their respective sections.

Go to our website at www.unionfinley.com for a summary table of how our local high school basketball teams fared in the 2011/2012 season

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Entertainment PUMP P U VOLU

by Mandy Withers-Kozlowski

MARCH Baltimore House 412-653-9332 176 Curry Hollow Rd., Pleasant Hills 3 - Smoking Section 10 - Midlife Crisis 17 - Refuge 24 - Dancing Queen 31 - Vinyl Static Tuesdays - Karaoke w/ Judy 9 p.m.1 a.m. @ Lounge Thursdays - DJ Ed Lover 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

Thursdays - Karaoke w/ Judy 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Lounge Fridays - DJ Ed Lover Bootsie’s Bar 412-672-1120 699 O’Neil Blvd., McKeesport 3 - Twelve Noon 10 - Big Tony & Co. 17 - St. Patrick’s Day Bash w/ DP 31 - Weathered Soul Denny’s Roadhouse 724-258-6232 3431 Rt. 136, Finleyville (corner of Ginger Hill Rd. & Rt. 136) Mondays - Saturdays -Exotic/ Lingerie Barmaids, 6pm-2am Eck’s Restaurant & Lounge 724-310-3570 1574 Fourth Street, Monongahela 1 - White Rose Karaoke 2 - White Rose Karaoke 3 - DJ Bob 8 - White Rose Karaoke 9 - DJ Bob 10 - DJ Bob 15 - White Rose Karaoke 16 - White Rose Karaoke, St. Patrick’s Day Special 17 - DJ Bob, St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot! the

ME!

19 - Mon Valley Jazz Band Spring Tour (6:30-9 p,m,) 22 - White Rose Karaoke 23 - DJ Bob 24 - DJ Bob 29 - White Rose Karaoke 30 - White Rose Karaoke 31 - DJ Bob Elrama Tavern 412-384-3630 1520 Rt. 837, Elrama 3 - Winter kickball game @ Elrama ball field, 12 p.m.

10 - Karaoke Sing-a-long 17 - St. Patrick’s Day Party 23 - The Regular Joes 30 - Todd Jones

Thursdays - Karaoke /DJ Fridays - Karaoke /DJ Saturdays - Karaoke /DJ The Hunting Lodge 724-348-7984 3529 Washington Ave., Finleyville Fridays - Free juke box, 8 p.m.close Saturdays - Free juke box, 8 p.m.

The Kickstand Bar & Restaurant 412-384-3080 1100 Hayden Blvd.

3 – Mother’s Little Helper 11 - Brother Jeep and Old Shoes 17 - Karaoke with Marty 24 - Karaoke with Marty 31 - Karaoke with Marty

Freddie’s II 412-833-1830 Maxwell’s Restaurant & Lounge 2789 South Park Road, Bethel Park at The DoubleTree by Hilton Thursdays - Magician 6:30-8:30 pm Meadowlands 724-222-6200 Hey Andy Sportsbar and Lounge 340 Race Track Road, Washington 724-258-4755 Fridays, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m., 1221 W. Main St., Monongahela Saturdays, 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m.

2 - Black Dog Hollow 2 - Sputzy 3 - Broken Spoke 3 - DJ Johny Fever 9 - Elderado Kings 9 - The Kim Alexandra Band 10 - Black Magic 10 - Video DJ Adam Miler 16 - Rusty Biker Band 16 - Harold Betters 17 - DJ Barto 17 - DJ Lanican 23 - Fungus 23 - Terrance Vaughn Band 24 - WeedRags 24 - Video DJ Adam Miler 30 - A-Z Karaoke 30 - Renewed Memories Band 31 - Violent Peaches 31 - DJ Johny Fever Thursdays - DJ Barto Pit Stop Bar and Grille Hot House Tap and Grille 412 -384 -7487 724-258-4212 1473 Rt. 837, Elrama 807 Dry Run Road, Monongahela Saturdays - Free juke box, 9-11pm 3 - Aaron Duda/Solo 17 - St. Patrick’s Day Party w/ Irish Rinky Dinks Roadhouse Music & Karaoke, all day 724-228-1059 Wednesdays - Open stage 9 p.m. all 339 Amity Ridge Road, Amity musicians/singers/comics welcome 2 - Davisson Brothers Band

3 - Ruff Creek 10 - Hillbilly Gypsies 16 -TBA 17 - Ruff Creek 24 - Justin Fabus Band 31 - Chris Higbee River House Caféé 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi Entertainment - 9:30 pm - 1:30 am 3 - Dave Iglar Band 10 - Steeltown 17 - St. Patrick’s Day Celebration 22 - Mystery’s Most Wanted (ticketed event) 24 - Lady and the Tramps 31 - Gil Snyder Combo Rockin’ Willies Roadhouse 724-745-8844 2476 Washington Road, Canonsburg Tuesdays - Jam Night with the Jam Band, all singers and musicians welcome Roy’s By The Tracks 724-348-7118 3710 Rt. 88, Finleyville 2 - Variety Lie 9 - Lindsay Neal and Kickback 16 - Bill Ali 23 - The GumBand 30 - Matt Barranti 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 10 - DJ Stan 17 - DJ Ben 24 - Lucky Me 31 - DJ Russ Wednesdays - DJ Russ Thursdays - DJ Ben Fridays - DJ Crene

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

Terrace Gardens 412-233-2626 1180 Woodland Ave., Clairton 2 - Paul & Ray 10 - EZ Action 16 - Chuck Corby 23 - Todd Jones 30 - Regular Joes Wednesdays – Karaoke Three Streets Grille 724-348-8030 3540 Washington Ave., Finleyville 2 - Plinko Night 3 - Vinyl Static 10 - Lady and the Tramps 17 - Pub Crawl 24 - Sea of Heads 31 - Sidewinder Tuesdays - Free pool, free darts, Texas Hold ‘em Thursdays - Ladies Night w/ drink specials The Trolley Stop Inn 412-835-9600 6247 Library Rd., Bethel Park 13 - March Madness Valley Hotel 412-233-9800 1004 New England Hollow Rd., Intersection of 837/Coal Valley Rd., Jefferson Hills Fridays - Open Stage Night, all musicians welcome[RTF bookmark start: }_GoBack[RTF bookmark end: }_GoBack

March 2012 —————————————————————————————————————————

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

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

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--------- AUTOMOTIVE ---------Tall White Cap for 8-Foot Bed - 1992 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck.It wil probably fit other 8-foot bed trucks. It is in excellent condition. $400 or best offer. For more information, call 412-384-6262 or e-mail kjmil er37@yahoo.com. _________________________________________________________________ RV for Sale - 2007 25ft. Gulfstream Motorhome, 1 slide, well equipped and maintained, low mi_________________________________________________________________ leage, new inspection. $40,000 OBO. Call 724-258-4280 or 724-554-8109.

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 gril $75. Phone 724-2680315. _________________________________________________________________ Hyundai Accent - $4500.00. For more information, call 412-512-8437 or 412-417-5948 and ask for Charlotte. _________________________________________________________________ 2004 Jeep Liberty - Sport 4x4 drive, new tires, new inspection, and garage kept. 85,500 mi_________________________________________________________________ les, 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 wil negotiate. For more information, call 412-854-5844. _________________________________________________________________ 2008 Jeep Liberty 4x4 - 30K miles, flat tow ready, modern blue pearlcoat exterior, 3.6L V6 engine w/6 speed manual transmission,lots of extras,includes tow bar & auxiliary brake system. $20,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667. _________________________________________________________________ 2003 Hyundai Accent - lt blue/station wagon,slim type,little over 15,000 miles,new brakes and rack. Car runs excellent. $8,500 final price. Call Charlotte at 412-417-5948. _________________________________________________________________ Ford Farm Tractor - 1952, 8N, 12 volts, with brush hog. $2,500. 724-348-5992. _________________________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars,trucks,etc., with or without title,all worth money.Also,local and long di_________________________________________________________________ stance towing. Call 412-498-1622.

1999 Nissan truck-Frontier. 163,000 miles, Good condition. $5000 or B/O. 724-3487637. _________________________________________________________________ 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: 1-800-4546951 _________________________________________________________________

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.

I_________________________________________________________________ nstant Offer - Call: 1-800-569-0003

--------- AUTO DONATIONS ---------A-1 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 Towi ng! 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 1-800-5780408 _________________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CANCER FUND of AMERICA to help SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS.Tax Deducti ble. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 7 Days 1-800-835-9372 _________________________________________________________________ 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 1-800-4698593 _________________________________________________________________ Donate Your Car! Civilian Veterans & Soldiers Help Support Our U.S. Military Troops 100% Vol unteer Free same Day Towing.Tax Deductible. Call and Donate Today! 1-800-471-0538 _________________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to USO and HELP SUPPORT AMERICA’S TROOPS.Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 1-888-444-8308. _________________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing,All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 888-475-1825 _________________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation! Most highly rated breast cancer chari ty in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up. Call 1-800-402-7119 _________________________________________________________________

-------------- BUSINESS TO BUSINESS -----------Reach 30,000 potential customers in the South Hills and Mon Valley communities!

Advertise your business in the Union-Finley Messenger.Call for more information at 412-2498177.

Or e-mail to news@unionfinley.com. _________________________________________________________________ FREE WEEK OF ADVERTISING... place your ad in over 1 Mil ion households in free community papers in the Western Counties of Pennsylvania for 5 Weeks and get the 6th Week FREE! Vi_________________________________________________________________ sit www.macnetonline.com/MICRONETS for more details or call 800-450-7227.

REACH CUSTOMERS IN THE MID-ATLANTIC STATES. Place your ad in over 5.2 mil ion households in free community papers for 5 weeks and get the 6th Week FREE.Visit www.macnetonl ine.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 Good Money! Weekly! Homeworkers needed NOW! Details: Rush Long SASE: NHA, 28 E. Jackson, #F-458, Dept. NANI, Chicago, IL 60604-2263 WWW.EASYBABYCASH. COM _________________________________________________________________ Start Earning Now! $1000's Weekly For Placing Free Online Classifieds Just Like This One. Get Paid Daily! Call 1-800-818-4395 www.987wow.com _________________________________________________________________ WORRIED ABOUT GAS PRICES? Get Paid Daily,FDIC Insured Very Low Cost,11 yr.old company 24/7 18 min call 214-261-5396 or www.43440.wavetenvideo.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. _________________________________________________________________

-------------- 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 wi_________________________________________________________________ th 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.

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. 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.

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.

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 skil s utilizing MS Office. Canonsburg location. Send resume to 724-916-4777 or jobs@staffmastersinc.com. _________________________________________________________________ Babysitter/Nanny for Summer – let your kids sleep and play in the neighborhood.

American Red Cross certified experienced, reasonable, references. Call Kelsey at 724-3486528.

HELP WANTED! Experienced P/T Cook AND P/T Waitress The Hunting Lodge • 724-348-7984 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a Salesperson.They must have experience in the sales field and is wil ing 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 wil 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@visi_________________________________________________________________ twashingtoncountypa.com or by fax at 724-228-5514.

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— 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 skil s.Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred.Wil train. Call 724-348-8844. _________________________________________________________________ Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with chi ldren. Part time or full time positions available. Please call Tammy at 724-348-6565 _________________________________________________________________

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

Ability to multi-task. Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred. Will train.

Call 724-348-8844.

Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts. Ability to multi-task.Strong leadership qualities and people skil s.Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred.Wil train. Call 724-348-8844. _________________________________________________________________ Seeking career-oriented professional with current PA insurance licenses for full time position. Property & Casualty license a must; wil ing to train for Life/Health license. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume’ to 724-258-5880. _________________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily. Get paid to shop pt/ft. Call now 1-888-7500193. _________________________________________________________________ MOVIE EXTRA. Earn up to $300 per day. No experience required.All looks and ages. Call 1800-981-4925. _________________________________________________________________ Excellent weekly income processing our mail! Free supplies! Helping homeworkers si_________________________________________________________________ nce 1992. Genuine! 888-302-1522 www.howtowork-fromhome.com ** ABLE TO TRAVEL ** Hiring 10 people,Work- travel all states,resort areas.No experience.

Pai d training/Transportation provided. 18+ 1-888-853-8411 www.protekchemical.com _________________________________________________________________ Mystery Shoppers Needed Earn up to $150 per day Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retai l & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 888-380-3513 _________________________________________________________________ NOW HIRING: Employees needed to assemble products at home.No selling,any hours.$500 weekl y potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 Dept. MAC-6811 _________________________________________________________________ 2012 FEDERAL POSTAL POSITIONS - NOW HIRING! $13.00-$36.50+/hr., Full Benefi ts/Paid Training. No Experience/Call Today! 1-800-593-2664 Ext. 141 _________________________________________________________________ SEEKING 10 PEOPLE! FDIC Insured Product! Paid Daily! Training Provided,10 yr old business 15 min call provided 214-261-5396 or www.43440.waveten.net _________________________________________________________________ DRIVERS NEEDED! 1 YR OTR Experience Required. Home Weekly in select areas.TOP PAY! Pay per Miles or 70% + 100% FSC.Average $2.21/Mile. (651) 815-0235.

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.

We Will Train You!

-------------- FINANCIAL / INSURANCE -------------

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:

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. _________________________________________________________________

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

We buy structured settlement and annuity payments. Get a $1,000 cash advance for your payments. Call 877-536-3703 today!

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.

CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY REMOVE IT! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys.

Minimum $7000 debt to qualify. Call 1-866-652-7630 _________________________________________________________________ LAWSUIT CASH Auto Accident? All cases qualify! Get CASH before your case settles! Fast Approval . Low Fees. (866) 709-1100 www.glofin.com _________________________________________________________________ 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! Call 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 ------------

DRIVERS

First Transit, Inc.

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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

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

Hide-a-way Hose Real - w/150' hose. $40. 412-655-1831. _________________________________________________________________ Aqarium and Accessories - 29 gal. $50.00. 724-810-1152 after 5 p.m. _________________________________________________________________ Black & Decker 16" Electric Hedge Trimmer - $15. 412-655-1831. _________________________________________________________________ 2_________________________________________________________________ Glass Top End Tables - $25 for both. 412-655-1831.

Black Marble 6-sided Table - $20. 412-655-1831. _________________________________________________________________ Buffet - $10. 412-655-1831. _________________________________________________________________ Recliner - wine colored, extra wide, 2 yrs old, $175. 412-655-1831. _________________________________________________________________ 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.

Li_________________________________________________________________ ke 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 724929-3891. _________________________________________________________________ Cemetery lots. Lafayette Memorial Park. Garden of Serenity. 4 lots at $5,400. Selling for $2,400.

724-938-7307. _________________________________________________________________ FREE! – Upright Piano. Union Township.You haul. For details, call 724-348-7557. _________________________________________________________________ MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA MATTRESSES T-$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY LIFETIME WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800ATSLEEP1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM _________________________________________________________________ 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 _________________________________________________________________

----------- ITEMS WANTED -------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.

Collecting miscellaneous items for the needy. Call Louise at 724-483-8600. _________________________________________________________________ All old jukebox by Wurlitzer, Seeburg,AMI, or Rockola. Pre-1962 vintage only. Non-working is OK. Call 724-914-1693 or email RPESQ@YAHOO.COM. Local collector from Monongahel a. _________________________________________________________________ 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 724941-5420. _________________________________________________________________ Misc. Items Wanted - 30x30x15 Greenhouse kit and supplies to build greenhouse; Small camping trailer - reasonable; Water storage tank (5,000 or 3,000 Gal tank); Used water storage tank; Old farm fencing. 724-344-8784. _________________________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. Also, local and long di_________________________________________________________________ stance 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 724-348-6203.

JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T.Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. _________________________________________________________________ YEARBOOKS "Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks1900-1988. yearbookusa@yahoo.com or 972-768-1338." _________________________________________________________________

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

March 2012 ————————————————————————————————————————— Wants to purchase mineralsand 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 $24.00.Shipping Paid.

Habl amos espanol 1-800-267-9895 www.selldiabeticstrips.com _________________________________________________________________ WANTED JAPANEESE MOTORCYCLE KAWASAKI 1967-1980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, ZIR, KZ1000MKII, W1-650, H1-500, H2-750, S1-250, S2-350, S3-400 Suzuki GS400, GT380, CB750 (69.70) CASH PAID. 1-800-772-1142, 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners.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.cash4diabeticsuppl_________________________________________________________________ ies.com WANTED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. ANY KIND/BRAND. UP TO $22.00/Box. SHIPPING PAID. HABLAMO ESPANOL. 1-800-266-0702 ww.SellDiabeticstrips.com _________________________________________________________________ WANTED YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS Unexpired Any Kind/Brand.Up to $22.00 per box.

Shi pping Paid. Hablamos espanol. 1-800-267-9895 / www.SellDiabeticstrips.com _________________________________________________________________ WANTED ALL MOTORCYCLES — PRE 1980. Runing or not. Cash paid. 315-569-8094 _________________________________________________________________

----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-825-7233. _________________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 4 only 25x36, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Selling For Balance Owed! Free Del ivery! 1-800-462-7930x192 _________________________________________________________________ CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY. Instant offer: 1-800-8645784 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.

Are you paying TOO much for your PRESCRIPTION?SAVE 90% by ordering through our Canadi an pharmacy. $25 off and FREE SHIPPING CALL (888) 437-0414 _________________________________________________________________ WORK ON JET ENGINES - Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program.

Fi_________________________________________________________________ nancial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866)453-6204 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 _________________________________________________________________ Dish Network lowest nationwide price $19.99 a month. FREE HBO/Cinemax/Starz FREE Bl_________________________________________________________________ ockbuster FREE HD-DVR and install. Next day install 1-800-459-1781 $$OLD GUITARS WANTED$$ Gibson,Fender,Martin,Gretsch. 1920's to 1980's. Top Dollar pai d.Toll Free: 1-866-433-8277 _________________________________________________________________ Frustrated with Dial-Up? Highspeed Satellite Internet is here. $0 down and $49.99 per month.Avai lable at your Home TODAY! DIRECTV also available. Call 1-888-920-2127 _________________________________________________________________ **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.fixj_________________________________________________________________ ets.com 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! 877-276-3538 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$20/mo. CALL NOW! 800-314-9361 CA$H PAID-UP TO $23/BOX for unexpired,sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 2 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. SE HABLA ESPANOL. Emma 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4Di abeticSupplies.com _________________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

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 _________________________________________________________________ DIRECTV $29.99/mo $0 Start Costs! Free HBO CINEMAX SHOWTIME STARZ! FREE HD/DVR! Free Installation! We’re “Local” Installers! 800-355-4203 _________________________________________________________________ Dish Network $19.99/mo! Free HBO+Showtime+Cinemax+Starz+Blockbuster! Free HD/DVR! Next Day Install! Ask About Internet/TV/Phone Bundles! 800-732-0574 _________________________________________________________________ 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 _________________________________________________________________ Enjoy Better TV 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) 5942251 _________________________________________________________________ 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 _________________________________________________________________ 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 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! 1-866-634-5056 Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $69 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 i_________________________________________________________________ Heater® Heat 1000 sq. ft. for about 5 cents an hour! Free Shipping! Call 1-888-435-0688 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc.Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 866-983-3264 _________________________________________________________________ DISH Network delivers more for less! Packages starting at $24.99/mo, Local channels included! FREE HD for life! Free BLOCKBUSTER® movies for 3 months. 1-888-691-3801 _________________________________________________________________

------------- NOTICES ---------Golfers Wanted - Wednesday & Friday, traveling golf league. Call 412- 680- 8408 or signup_________________________________________________________________ on the Internet at www.GarryOwenPittsburgh.org.

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. _________________________________________________________________ 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 call 412760-2291. _________________________________________________________________ (4632 US RT 40, Claysville) $244,900 - Commercial Building, Offices,Warehouse, 5000+ SF.All Equip. included! Make offer!! Lisa Mull, Prudential Preferred Realty 412-854-7200 ext 228 or 724-678-2454. _________________________________________________________________

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ATTENTION Diabetics with Medicare Join America`s Diabetic Savings Club and receive a FREE diabetic bracelet. Membership is FREE. Qualify for meter upgrades, prescription delivery and free giveaways. Call 1-888-474-3420 _________________________________________________________________ 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.midatlanticbids.com _________________________________________________________________

------------- PETS ---------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! 724249-5777. _________________________________________________________________ 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 412855-4678. _________________________________________________________________ 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. _________________________________________________________________ Rabbit Hutches - Taking orders for custom made, heavy duty, outdoor rabbit hutches.

Del ivery extra. Call for details. 724-239-2196 or 724-239-2593 _________________________________________________________________

------------ REAL ESTATE -------Warehouse For Lease - Contact owner directly at 724-483-4500 or 724-433-6541. Price negotiable. Includes office space and parking, 3 bay doors for easy loading/unloading, all utili_________________________________________________________________ ties present, fantastic location.

House For Sale - small home in New Eagle with garage and shed. Totally updated, and in pri_________________________________________________________________ stine condition. $52,000 and may consider a rent to own. Call Jack at 412-841-0777.

Mobile Home for Sale - 2 bedroom, carport, shed, all appliances, in South Park Mobile Estates, Finleyvil e. $13,500 OBO. Call 724-825-6433. _________________________________________________________________ 6 Corner Lots for Sale - 30 x 100 each,place plan,Donora near Palmer Park,sewage availabl e. Call 724-379-5693. _________________________________________________________________ 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 412466-4817 to see. _________________________________________________________________ House for rent - Monongahela,822 Marne St.,2 bedroom,very clean,big 2 car garage,very ni_________________________________________________________________ ce 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.

Cal l 724-350-5983. _________________________________________________________________ FOR SALE – Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everythi ng. 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 DeniseMarasco@HowardHanna.com or call 4125617400. _________________________________________________________________ Apt for Rent - 2 BR, 2nd flr., country, private, by itself. Laundry rm. & porch. Lots of parking.

Updated.

No pets. $525+. Call (412) 384-5406. _________________________________________________________________ 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.

Cal l 412-600-9061 _________________________________________________________________ 2008 Tioga 31M Motorhome - 12,200 miles, like new, loaded, dual slide, 6.8 V10 engine, 5_________________________________________________________________ speed automatic, many upgrades-too many to list. $62,000 OBO. Call 412-384-4667.

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@genindustries.com. _________________________________________________________________ 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 partiall_________________________________________________________________ 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.

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

New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negoti able. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773. _________________________________________________________________ Available Now!!! 2-4 Bedroom homes Take Over Payments No Money Down/No Credit Check Call 1-888-269-9192 _________________________________________________________________ ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment.

Call now 800-250-2043. _________________________________________________________________ Stop Renting Lease option to buy Rent to own No money down No credit check 1-877395-0321 _________________________________________________________________ 100 ACRE TEXAS LAND SALE- 70% Discount! $0/Down,$195/month.Was $64,500.Now $19,500!! No Credit Checks. Owner Financing. Money Back Guarantee. Great Mountain Vi_________________________________________________________________ ews. FREE color brochure. 1-877-284-2072 GEORGIA LAND- NEW YEAR SALE! Beautiful 1acre-20acres homesites.Amazing weather, Augusta area (Washington County). Low taxes. Low down Payment, Financing from $149/month. Call Owner 706-364-4200 _________________________________________________________________ LOTS & ACREAGE ABSOLUTE FARM LAND SALE! 2/11 ONLY! 5 acres - $19,900 10 acres - $29,900 Gorgeous Catskil s location! Woods,views,meadows! All mineral rights! 50% below market value! No closing costs! Register today! (888) 738-6994 _________________________________________________________________ ABANDONED STREAMSIDE FARM! 25 acres - $49,900 Water front, woods, meadows, State Land nearby! 30 mins from Albany! Seller pays closing costs! Call NOW! (888) 7386994 www.NewYorkLandandLakes.com _________________________________________________________________ LOTS & ACREAGE ABANDONED FARM SALE! 25 acres - $39,900 Farmhouse/Barn $79,900 3 hrs NY City! Hardwood timber, adjacent to State Land, huge stream! Half market value AND seller pays closing costs! (866) 495-8733 _________________________________________________________________ 20 ACRES! GREAT INVESTMENT! Only $99/mo. $0 Down, Owner Financing, NO CREDIT CHECKS! Near El Paso,Texas,Beautiful Mountain Views! Free Color Brochure.800-755-8953 www.sunsetranches.com _________________________________________________________________ FOR SALE. Investment Property; Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534.

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

Ameri can Red Cross Certified, Experienced, Reasonable, References. Kelsey: 724-348-6528. _________________________________________________________________ General Hauling - Driver and 7 ton dump truck for hauling dirt,stone and etc.Local area only.

For more information, call Denny at 724-348-5162. _________________________________________________________________ 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 _________________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-825-7233. _________________________________________________________________ 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! 724-2495777. _________________________________________________________________ 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. _________________________________________________________________

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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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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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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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.

WEEKEND GETAWAY! Deep Creek, Maryland. 5 Bedroom Home for Rent. *Ski Wisp*, Call Dave at 412.427.3691 for more details! _________________________________________________________________

COMUTER 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.

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.

AFFORDABLE WATERPROOFING! Large Local Company. Lifetime Transferable Warranty.

BBB Award Winner.WINTER RATES AVAILABLE!! (PA377) Call Today 1-800-343-2357 _________________________________________________________________

----------- 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. _________________________________________________________________

Monthly Pizza Puzzler!

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 March 10)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the Union-Finley Messenger.

Who will be the subject of a roast to benefit the PA Trolley Museum on March 23?

When is the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum reopening after winter break?

Who was named February Business of the Month by the Monongahela Chamber of Commerce?

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 February Pizza Puzzler winners!

ROBERT MANCZ - McKeesport • BARBARA LUPORI- Monongahela

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Food & Dining

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