Union Finley Messenger December 2011

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DECEMBER 2011

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SENIOR GUIDE

Vol. 8, Issue 8

Page 54

INDEX: Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Home & Garden . . . . . . 42 People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Ask The Experts . . . . . . 52

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 School News . . . . . . . . . . 59 Food & Dining . . . . . . . . . 64 Kids & Family . . . . . . . . . 65 Entertainment . . . . . . . . 66 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Ringgold Class of 2012 Earns Page 62

Recognition Page 62

“ 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

Local Bridge to be Named in Honor of Monongahela Military Hero

South Park Women’s Club Holds 18th Annual Holiday Bazaar

State Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, said he is pleased that legislation he jointly sponsored to name a bridge after Carl E. Vuono unanimously passed the House and is on its way to the Senate. Daley worked with Rep. Rick Saccone, R-Allegheny, to honor a Monongahela native who retired from the U.S. Army as a four-star general and who served as chief of staff of the U.S. Army.

“General Vuono had a distinguished and illustrious military career that will go down in the history books as exemplary,” Daley said. “Even as he rose through the ranks, he never forgot his roots in the Mon Valley.”

The legislation (H.B. 1886) would designate the bridge that carries State Route 136 over the Monongahela River, connecting Forward Township to Monongahela as the General Carl E. Vuono Bridge.

Vuono graduated from Monongahela High School and the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. He went on to serve three tours of duty in Vietnam.

Vuono served as chief of staff to the U.S. Army and was mentor to former Secretary of State Colin Powell and Commanding Gen. David Petraeus.

“For his military valor, he earned numerous medals including the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star and the Army Distinguished Service Medal,” Daley said. The legislation moves to the Senate for consideration.

Members of the South Park Women’s Club hosted their 18th Annual Holiday Bazaar on October 23.

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On a beautiful, warm, sunny day, Sunday, October 23, the South Park Women’s Club held its 18th Annual Holiday Bazaar at the Home Economics Building in South Park. It was a busy afternoon with a crowd of shoppers looking for fall and holiday gifts and crafts. About 50 crafters offered their unique homemade wares, and about half of the vendors were new this year. SPWC also held raffles and a Chinese Auction, sold refreshments, and held a bake sale.

The club’s mission is to provide assistance to township residents in need and provide scholarships to women and students within the township to enhance their education and personal growth. The annual craft show is their largest fund raiser and helps to support their objectives and mission. The South Park Women’s Club thanks all of those who helped to make the day such a success, including the crafters and the people who attended.

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

When “That will never happen to me” happens.

UT Supervisor Thanks Constituents Dear Editor, I would like to take the time to thank the residents of Union Township for giving me the opportunity to serve you on the Board of Supervisors for a six-year term. I will go the extra mile for our residents to make this community a safer and better township to live in. I want to see our community grow. Again, I thank you very much for your support.

Sincerely, Brenda L. Cushey, Union Township

I’m ready to help.

There’s never a g for an a

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. ™

GET TO A BETTER STATE .

CALL ME TODAY.

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

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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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LOCAL NEWS

Work Certified Academy Provides Help for Jobseekers When Work Certified Academy opened in September of 2008, it was one of Washington County’s –best-kept secrets. The Academy offers a nationally recognized job training certification to any resident or employer in the county free of charge.

The brainchild of the Washington Greene County Job Training Agency, the Academy has certified over 400 jobseekers and provided training services to over 1,000 county residents and employers to date. Funded by the Washington County Local Share Account, the Academy offers an intensive two-week job training program that teaches jobseekers the skills that local employers are looking for.

The Work Certified curriculum was originally designed by employers and focuses on the soft skills that are so often barriers to success in the workplace. The Academy has added additional computer training to the program, as more employers have moved to online applications and higher standards for computer literacy for all employees.

In order to achieve certification, students must demonstrate proficiency in 52 competencies and pass an online exam with 80% or higher. The Academy is a hands-on experience for students.

Work Certified trainers work with students in the classroom, and a job developer helps with job placement after graduation.

In addition to the latest job search techniques, students learn the newest

resume trends and interview coaching strategies. The course also includes computer basics and an introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel.

Since the Academy began, it has successfully trained jobseekers of every age and background. The oldest graduate was 76, and more than 22 percent have college degrees or beyond. Most are high school graduates and have been displaced from their current jobs or are underemployed. Many are over 40 and are unsure of how to navigate the changing job market in the region. It often takes this group longer to find new employment, and they may need to update skills or change careers.

The only program of its kind in the country, Work Certified Academy is a unique community resource that has placed 89% of graduates in employment or higher education. Academy staff can also provide customized soft-skills training programs for Washington County employers.

In addition to the two-week classes held in Washington, the Academy staff also offers a series of one-day miniworkshops at the Mon Valley Career Link in Donora. Call the PA Careerlink to register at 724-379-4750.

Please visit our website at www.workcertifiedacademy.org or call us at 724-225-2551 for more information and a schedule of classes. The next class dates are December 5, 2011 or January 9, 2012. The Academy is located at 95 West Beau Street, Suite 115 in Washington, PA.

Elizabeth’s Grand Theater Offers The Nutcracker, A Holiday Tradition This classic children's ballet will delight the child in all of us on Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Why drive to downtown Pittsburgh when you can join us in the intimacy of the 200-seat Grand Theatre, 207 S. Second Ave., Elizabeth. You will be swept away by the fantasy of the strange and wonderful events that happen at the Stahlbaum’s annual Christmas party. Share Clara’s surprise as her mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer arrives at the party with three life-sized mechanical dolls and a special gift for her, a Nutcracker. Witness the heart-pounding battle between the evil Mouse King and the Nutcracker Soldier, who slays the Mouse King and saves Clara. Marvel at the dancing of the delicate Sugar Plum Fairy as she magically transports Clara to the delicious Land of Sweets.

For tickets, call 412-672-2200 or email askthedanceco@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.dancecoperformingarts.com. Buy your tickets early—last year’s shows sold out!

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“Stan the Man” Bridge Designation Now Official In less than two months, the Route 1077 bridge over the Monongahela River will officially become the “Stan the Man Musial” Bridge. Musial, a native of Donora, Washington County, was named National Baseball League MVP three times and made 24 All-Star appearances. Now known as the Donora-Monessen Bridge, the structure carries the C. Vance DeiCas Memorial Highway (S.R. 1077) over the Monongahela River in Washington and Westmoreland counties. Sen. Tim Solobay said a re-naming event is being planned, although details are still being worked out.

Musial, who played at Donora High School, went on to sign with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1938 as a pitcher. By the time he made his first major league appearance in 1941, he had been converted to the outfield and eventually accumulated more than 3,600 hits, including 475 homeruns. His three World Series titles were separated by service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After he retired in 1963, Musial became general manager of the Cardinals. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1969 and was awarded the “Presidential Medal of Freedom” in February 2011.

SEND US YOUR NEWS! Email: news@unionfinley.com

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LOCAL NEWS

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

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

DECEMBER 1 FOOD AND FRIENDS FREE MEAL PROGRAM – first and third Thursdays each month from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Thomas Presbyterian Church, 1068 Linden Road, Venetia. All are welcome. In the case of inclement weather, call Patti at 724-941-6609.

OPENING RECEPTION, JEFF EDWARDS GALLERY – 4909 Library Road, Bethel Park.

2011 Holiday Open House Exhibition.

Original Art by over 25 local artists.

Exhibition runs through January 7. Gallery Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, call 412-833-3306.

AUTHOR’S NIGHT – Pleasant Hills Library, Old Clairton Road, 7 p.m. Local authors will discuss their published works and have them available for sale and for signing.

Refreshments will be served, and time will be available to meet and greet the authors.

Registration is appreciated. For more information, call 412-655-2424 or email gealys@einetwork.net.

CANONSBURG LIGHT-UP NIGHT – Downtown Canonsburg light-up celebration, 5-7 p.m. DJ Kevin Simms will provide Christmas tunes. Guests enjoy games, horsedrawn sleigh rides throughout downtown.

DECEMBER 3 OPEN HOUSE – Historic Schoolhouse, 2600 South Park Road, Bethel Park, will be open to the public from 12 to 5 p.m. There will be art Galleries, craft shows, three artist studios, theater group, poinsettia sale, caricatures, demos (including painting with a live model), music and refreshments. Everything is free. For further information, please call Sally Cordis at 412-831-8156 or email scordis@msn.com.

CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW – South Park Mobile Estates Community Room, 120 Hidden Valley Dr., Finleyville, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Psychic reader, crafts, vendors, Chinese auction, baked goods and food.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Hoot Owls Athletic Association, 129 4th Ave., New Eagle, 9 a.m. to noon. Sponsored by the Monongahela-Donora Area Lions Club. Cost is $5 per ticket. Proceeds benefit local community projects. Those age eight and under are invited to sit and chat with Santa. Be sure to bring your camera for free photo opportunities. Call 724-809-8232 for tickets and information.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Event includes free picture with Santa (courtesy of Grilli Studio), two crafts, and pancake breakfast. Children are $8; adults $5. For more information and reservations, call the church office at 724-258-8300.

Friday evening festivities will be held December 2; for information, check for signs at the church.

SADECKY’S PUPPETS – The First United Methodist Church, 430 West Main Street, Monongahela, 4 p.m. The puppets will perform “The Carousel,” a show that not only entertains but also teaches the values of generosity and caring.

HO, HO, HO WITH THE WSO – first performance of the Washington Symphony Orchestra All Star Choir, Trinity High School, 231 Park Ave., Washington, 8 p.m. Adults are $20; children, students and seniors are $15.

Advance tickets available at Washington Financial, Citizens Library, online at www.washsym.org or by calling 724-2239796. Tickets also available at the door.

LOCKS OF LOVE EVENT – Jefferson Hills Library, Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, 1–4 p.m. Receive a free haircut by area professional hair stylists when you donate at least a 9inch ponytail to the Locks of Love organization, which provides wigs for children who have lost hair due to illness.

BREAKFAST WITH MARY AND JOSEPH – Thomas Presbyterian Church, 1068 Linden Rd, Eighty Four, 10-11:30 a.m. Celebrate Jesus’ birthday by eating breakfast with his parents, making a craft, playing games, and hearing about his birth, all before we sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus and eat cake in his honor. All ages are welcome. Come celebrate the true meaning of Christmas free of charge.

ANNUAL SANTA LUNCHEON – Part of the Old Fashioned Christmas in Canonsburg event. Additional activities: choral concert, craft making, hay rides and train rides, tours of the Canonsburg Fire Department. St. Patrick’s Parish Youth Ministry craft and vendor fair, Parish Hall, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Reservations are required for the luncheon.

Forms are available at the Our Town Cooperative office at 134 N. Jefferson Ave. and other locations in downtown Canonsburg or at www.downtowncanonsburg.org. For additional information contact the OTC Main Street office at 724-745-1515.

DECEMBER 3, 4 NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE – Grand Theatre, 207 S. Second Ave., Elizabeth, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. both days. Be swept away by the fantasy of the strange and wonderful events that happen at the Stahlbaum’s annual Christmas party. For tickets, call 412-6722200 or email askthedanceco@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.dancecoperformingarts.com. Buy your tickets early—last year’s shows sold out!

DECEMBER 4 TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY/HOLIDAY PARTY – Come to the Peters Township municipal complex to see Santa arrive in his shiny red fire truck. Enjoy the holiday sounds of the season, followed by visits with Santa, and crafts and refreshments in the library immediately following the tree lighting ceremony. All ages are welcome. Come out and meet your neighbors!

FROSTY’S FUN HOUSE – Peters Township Community Recreation Center, 2-4 p.m.. Let your little artist make a masterpiece you will cherish forever. Children ages 10 and under are invited. For more information, call 724942-5000.

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AND HOLIDAY PARTY – Peters Township Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 6 p.m. Held in partnership with the Peters Township Parks and Recreation Department. Followed by holiday caroling, refreshments, visits with Santa, and holiday crafts for children. For more information, call 724-941-9430.

SCOTTISH IRISH CELEBRATION – The Oliver Miller Homestead, Stone Manse Drive, just off the circle in South Park, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Fun-filled day paying tribute to Oliver Miller’s Scottish heritage. Scots dancing, games, food, bonfire, Scots Tea, historic crafts, and more. For more information, visit www.olivermiller.org or call 412-835-1554.

SOUP AND STROLL – Wright House Museum, 815 Venetia Road, Venetia, 12:30 to 6 p.m. Hosted by the Peters Creek Historical Society. Holiday event set in the 19th Century.

Dine on foods from the period, stroll the museum to see costumed re-enactors, enjoy lively dulcimer music, and tour the outdoor farmhouse. Admission tickets available at the door only. Takeout food will be available. For information, call 724-941-5710.

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December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 6 BEAD-A-THON – Jefferson Hills Public Library, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, 6–8 p.m. “The Bead Lady,” Kathy Shomo, author of Anyone Can Bead. Easy Techniques for Creating Jewelry, will provide instruction, beads, and other materials to make jewelry. Cost is based on the projects chosen. Registration fee is $5 and will be deducted from the price of your project. For more information, call 412-655-7741.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR – Concordia of the South Hills, 1300 Bower Hill Road, independent living social room, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Features vendors, crafts, a basket auction, and bake sale. For more information, call 412-2781300.

DECEMBER 7 ANNUAL HOLIDAY LUNCHEON – Peters Township Chamber of Commerce, Valley Brook Country Club. Call 724-941-6345 for reservations.

DECEMBER 8 EDIBLE HOLIDAY TREATS – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. For kids and parents of all ages. Make beautiful and edible holiday treats with your family. Register in the Children’s Department. For more information, call 724-941-9430.

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DECEMBER 10 PHCPC ILLUMINATION NIGHT – “Light the Christmas Spirit,” Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, 199 Old Clairton Road, Pleasant Hills, 5 to 8:30 pm.

Outdoor and indoor activities, including bonfires, free horse and carriage and trolley rides, music, dancing and singing, a live manger scene, food and a baked goods sale. Free shuttle buses will run from 4:30 to 9 p.m. from the Pleasant Hills Municipal Building and the Pleasant Hills Middle School. Donations of current non-perishable food items will be collected for the Cloverleaf Food Bank.

HOLIDAY MINUTE-TO-WIN-IT FAMILY EVENT – Pleasant Hills Library, Old Clairton Road, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Game challenges of varying degrees of difficulty for all ages using traditional holiday items. Each challenge must be completed in a minute or less. $2 fee per person; prizes, refreshments, holiday treat for children. Registration is required; call 412655-2424.

DECEMBER 9 CHILDREN’S WINTER HOLIDAY SHOW FUNDRAISER – The Heritage Players of Bethel Park perform, Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue, Bethel Park, 7 p.m.

Donations accepted at the door. For more information, please visit www.heritageplayers.org or call 412-831-6800, ext. 745.

TAKE CARE TIPS, CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER – Peters Creek Baptist Church, 6300 Library Road, South Park, 11 a.m.-noon.

Presenter Jennifer Antkowiak of KDKA, an award-winning news anchor, author, mother of five, coach and entrepreneur, is on a mission to make life easier for caregivers. Hear her personal journey to success, as well as her compassionate support for the caregiver in all of us. Light refreshments. Free event, but please make your reservation by December 7 by calling 412-833-6111 or email Pastor Keith Emmerling at k_emmerling@yahoo.com. For more information, visit www.peterscreekbaptist.com.

SHEPHERD’S VOICE “REJOICE! IT’S CHRISTMAS” CONCERT – Riverview Baptist Church, 405 Main Street, New Eagle, 7 p.m. Sacred and secular Christmas songs of past and present. Admission is free, but we will take a love offering to support the ongoing ministry of Shepherd’s Voice.

Refreshments will be provided following the concert. For more concert details, please call Saundra Bobnar at 724-258-4978.

DECEMBER 9, 10, 11 THE CHRISTMAS POST MUSICAL – South Hills Assembly of God Church, 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park, 7 p.m. Norman Rockwell illustrations come to life. Set in 1947, the story is inspired by two of Rockwell’s Saturday Evening Post covers.

Admission is free. For more information, call 412-835-8900 or visit www.southhillsassembly.org

HOLIDAY COOKIE SALE – Baldwin Community United Methodist Church, 5001 Baptist Road (across from Caste Village Shopping Center), 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Proceeds benefit missions for women, children, and youth.

BOOK SIGNING – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 10-11 a.m.

Dr. James McMurtry Longo, Professor of Education and Chair of the Education Department of Washington and Jefferson College, will premier and sign his new book From Classroom to White House: The Presidents and First Ladies as Students and Teachers.

Seating is limited, and registration is requested; please email programs@ptlibrary.org, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724-9419430.

GIFT WRAPPING PARTY – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 6–8 p.m. Having trouble sneaking around to wrap gifts for that special someone? Bring them to the library. We’ll provide the festive wrapping paper, tape, scissors, and bows—you provide the presents. For kids and parents of all ages.

Register in the Children’s Department. For more information, call 724-941-9430.

MON VALLEY CLOGGERS CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE – Macy’s court, Century III Mall, 7 p.m. Area’s most prominent cloggers.

Free lessons every Monday in January from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more information or to register, call Cliff or Pat Loehr at 412-384-6442, email Cloggin-Cliff@comcast.net, or visit MonValleyCloggers.com.

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM - AN OUTDOOR LIVING NATIVITY – Our Redeemer Lutheran Church,105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray, 6-8 p.m. This outdoor interactive walk commemorates the walk Mary and Joseph made long ago. Journey to Bethlehem with them, passing prophets and shepherds in the woods. Visit the Bethlehem marketplace for cider and snacks. Free and open to everyone. For more information, call 724-9417467.

DECEMBER 11 ADVENT PROGRAM – Saint Francis of Assisi Church, just North of Finleyville off Route 88, 7 p.m. The combined St. Francis of Assisi Choir and the Christmas brass ensemble of “Too Many Tubas” will present music, prayer, and scriptural readings. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

AFTERNOON WITH MRS. CLAUS – St. Peter’s Church, Brentwood, 12:30 p.m. Parents and kids of all ages will enjoy this enchanting storytelling hour by Mrs. Claus. Please register at 412-884-5225.

DECEMBER 13 SOUTH HILLS COIN CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY – monthly meeting, annual Christmas party, Bethel Park Presbyterian Church, 2999 Bethel Church Rd., 8 p.m. All members and the general public are invited. For more information, call 724-984-6611.

SOUTH PARK HISTORICAL SOCIETY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION – Library Social Hall, 6581 Library Rd., South Park.

Doors open at 6 p.m.; dinner served at 7 p.m.

The cost is $15 per person and includes a delicious buffet prepared by Cyd West-Comfort Catering and entertainment by Vocalist Johnny Fontaine. Reservations must be received by December 14. Members can contact Paul Kubis at 412-835-6826 for further information or concerns.

More Event Listings on page 6

®

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LOCAL NEWS

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

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

DECEMBER 13 TRINITY BELL CHOIR – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 7:30–8:30 p.m. The Trinity Bell Choir of Trinity United Methodist Church will provide a relaxing hour of beautiful holiday bell music.

Refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library after the performance. Register for this program at the library’s circulation desk or call 724-941-9430.

DECEMBER 14 SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEONS – Peters Township Community Recreation Center, 12 2 p.m. Luncheons are held at the recreation center on the second Wednesday of the month. Please bring a covered dish to share with everyone. For further information, call Lisa at 724-942-5000.

DECEMBER 15 TJ JAZZ BANDS PERFORMANCE – Christmas program for the Retired Men’s Lunch Group, Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, 199 Old Clairton Road.

Lunch is served at 12 p.m., and the program follows promptly at 12:45 p.m. The Retired Men’s Lunch Group meets the third Thursday

of the month. All men are invited to attend. A $6 fee is charged. Any men wishing to attend are asked to call the church at 412-655-4604.

WOMEN MONTHLY SOCIAL MEETING/ PHIPPS TOUR – WOMEN of Southwestern PA will celebrate their holiday social meeting with a candlelight tour of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Cost is $36 and includes bus transportation, food and admission. Guests are welcome. Reservations are required; call 724-344-1105.

JAM – Carroll Township American Legion, Monongahela. Wednesday nights from 8-11 p.m. $3 admission, great food, smoke-free, friendly atmosphere.

BAKE SALE – Jefferson United Methodist Church – 310 Gill Hall Rd., Jefferson Hills, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Variety of baked goods and trays. Mia Bella Candles and Popcorn Shirts.

Pre-order Christmas rolls by December 10; apricot rolls/$9 each; nut rolls/$9 each; and poppyseed rolls/$10 each. Deadline to order is Saturday, December 10, and put up date will be December 17. For more information, call 412-653-3222, option 3.

FAMILY ORNAMENT NIGHT – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 6:30–7:15 p.m. Make special ornaments with the whole family for the holidays. Add some sparkle to your holidays and your holiday gift giving. Register in the Children’s Department.

HOLIDAYS AND HOT COCOA – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 6:30–8 p.m. Decorate the Teen Room tree, make cookies, drink hot cocoa, and sing some of our favorite holiday tunes.

DECEMBER 18 “WINGS OF JOY” CHRISTMAS CANTATA – Hamilton Presbyterian Church, corner of Baptist and Hamilton roads, Bethel Park, 11 a.m. Chancel Choir and soloists will perform, accompanied by an orchestra directed by Devon Smeal. For questions, call 412-8842722 or visit hamiltonpresbyterian.org.

DECEMBER 19 CREATE A CHRISTMAS FLORAL CENTERPIECE – Jefferson Hills Library, Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, 6:30–8:15 p.m. Jim Carlucci of Della Robbia Florist, Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills will instruct. Cost is $45.

HOLIDAY MOVIE MARATHON – Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Road, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Holiday movies shown all day for kids and parents of all ages. Drop in for your favorite or stay for more. Bring a holiday snack to share and begin the week before Christmas in a special way. Register in the Children’s Department.

BOOK GROUP – Pleasant Hills Library, Old Clairton Road, 7 p.m. Ongoing club; new members welcome. This month’s selection is Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews.

DECEMBER 21, 22, 23 LIVE NATIVITY SCENE – Brightwood Christian Church front lawn, 5044 West Library Ave. and Center Street, Bethel Park, 69 p.m. Features costumed members of the congregation, a barn stage, and live animals in a fenced-in area. Hospitality table inside with hot coffee and cookies.. For more information, visit www.brightwoodchurch.org.

DECEMBER 30 QUARTET, GOSPEL PERFORMANCES – Lumber River Quartet of Lumberton, NC, will perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy, 411 4th Avenue, New Eagle, 7 p.m.

Crimson Stream, local southern gospel quartet, will open for them. For more information, call 724-379-4304.

DECEMBER 31 PSYCHIC FAIR – The Chapel of Oneness, 345 Regis Avenue, West Mifflin,10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stop in and see what the new year will bring for you. Psychics/mediums, Tarot card readers, a rune reader, and aura photographer.

Metaphysical items, books, jewelry, and gemstones for sale. Also, for a $5.00 donation to the Chapel you will receive a nice lunch. All donations are welcomed and help keep The Chapel a place for everyone to grow spiritually in many ways. For more information, contact Rachael Slifko at 412-770-4961 or the.chapel@verizon.net.

JANUARY 22 SOUTH HILLS TRAIN AND DIECAST SHOW – Library Volunteer Fire Co., 6581 Library Road, South Park, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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

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South Hills Friends of the Montour Trail 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 location of the Friends 2012 meetings is still uncertain. We have Along the Montour Trail, construction of the ramp from Triphammer Road to the Piney Fork requested the use of the South Park Bridge made significant progress in early Community Room on the second November with the placement and compaction of Tuesday of each month beginning on approximately 5,100 cubic yards of fill, most of it January 10 or 11, with an alternate from the removal of the Bebout Bridge in Peters request of the second Wednesday.

Township. Approximately 60% of the fill needed to complete the ramp has now been placed.

Individuals interested in attending the January 2012 meeting are encouraged to email davidoyler@verizon.net for confirmation of the day, place, and time of the meeting.

The December Friends meeting will be held on December 14 at 6:30 p.m. at 3321 Brownsville Extension, South Park. Individuals interested in attending should email the above address to confirm their attendance. 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.

Domestic Violence Victims Can Reach Out for Support As the weather changes, many people begin to look forward to the coming holidays. For victims of domestic violence, the coming holidays evoke feelings of dread. There will be no happiness. Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA can make this holiday season a safe one for victims of domestic violence and their children. All services are free and confidential. Support groups are available where you can talk with others about abuse. To find out more, in Washington County, call 724-223-9190 or 1-800-791-4000; in Greene County, call 724-852-2463; and in Fayette County, call 724-439-9500.

Local Author's Book Reveals Presidents as Students and Teachers A new book by Dr. James McMurtry Longo, Professor of Education and Chair of the Education Department of Washington and Jefferson College, explores the student and teaching experiences of presidents and first ladies from George and Martha Washington to Barack and Michelle Obama. Longo will premier his new book From Classroom to White House: The Presidents and First Ladies as Students and Teachers at the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, December 10 from 10-11 a.m. A book signing will follow the event. Seating is limited, and registration is requested. To reserve your seat, please email programs@ptlibrary.org, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

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Washington Area Humane Society In Desperate Need of Help and Donations for Pets Willowbrook Wash and Detailing, Route 51 in Belle Vernon, will be holding a fundraiser from December 1 through December 23. We will be collecting supplies and monetary donations. Please see the list of items requested below. For more information, call 724-379-7010.

• Adult dog and cat food (cans and bags) • Puppy and kitten food (cans and bags) • Toys (cat and dog) • Treats (cat and dog) • Baby food for sick cats and kittens (Gerber or Heinz #2 chicken and gravy) • Shampoo for dogs and cats/kittens and puppies • Powdered kitten/puppy formula • Cat litter (clay) • Dog collars and leashes • Dog houses • Flea products (cat and dog) • Carriers (any size) • Grooming supplies (clippers) • Heating pads • Medical supplies (tweezers, Q-tips, ear-cleaning solution, and 4x4 gauze pads) • Red brick for memorial walk • Washing or drying machines • Office supplies: pens, copy paper, colored paper, small envelopes, return envelopes, stamps, HP15 and 78 ink cartridges.

• Towels • Cleaning supplies: bleach, laundry soap, dish soap, paper towels, toilet paper, 39-gallon garbage bags, toilet bowl cleaner, mops, and buckets.

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Finleyville Area Food Pantry Donations Needed

Oliver Miller Homestead to Host Scottish Seasonal Celebration

In these times of economic hardship, the Finleyville Area Food Pantry is looking to the public for support to help with Christmas meals and gifts. Either financial or food items will be accepted at Finleyville Area Food Pantry, 3595 Washington Ave., Finleyville. All donations are accepted and appreciated.

Come join the Homestead Associates on Sunday, December 11, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. as they celebrate in traditional ways. The Homestead members will celebrate the Scottish festival of Hogmanay, a celebration of the end of the year and the beginning of the new. They will cook a haggis along with other traditional Scottish dishes. The superstition of first footing, when the first person into your home in the new year determines your fate that year, will be observed as will the firing of rifles to clean out the year and the gifting of oat cakes.

Traditional games will be demonJoe Pelan of South Park, Fred Bowman of Jefferson strated.

Hills, and Jim Willison of Bethel Park fire their long rifles to welcome in the new year at the annual close of The Homestead will be decoratthe season celebration at the Oliver Miller Homestead. ed simply with greens, pinecones, berries, and other natural materials. Members of the Bethel Park afternoon. This is a wonderful way to Middle School string orchestra will be end the year at the Oliver Miller playing in the barn. The focus in the Homestead. kitchen will be on puddings, as a The Oliver Miller Homestead, a hisChristmas pudding is prepared (both a toric landmark and Whiskey Rebellion boiled and baked variety). Historic site, is located on Stone Manse Drive, crafts such as spinning, weaving, quilt- just off the circle in South Park. For ing, and blacksmith work will be more information, visit www.oliverdemonstrated. Tours of the Stone miller.org or contact us at 412-835House, Log House, springhouse, forge, 1554. and barn will be given throughout the

Oliver Miller Homestead Celebrates Scots Sunday The Oliver Miller Homestead will celebrate Scots Sunday, a fun-filled day that pays tribute to Oliver Miller’s Scottish heritage, on Sunday, December 4 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The Homestead will feature Scots dancing, games, food, and talents. The Scots Dancers will perform traditional dances in the newly constructed barn. The bonfire will add to the atmosphere. A Scots Tea will be on display in the keeping room with more food being prepared in the open hearth fireplace. Spinning, weaving, quilting, and blacksmith work will be demonstrated. Tours of the Stone House, Log House, springhouse, forge, and barn will be given. The Oliver Miller Homestead, a historic landmark and Whiskey Rebellion site, is located on Stone Manse Drive, just off the circle in South Park. For more information, visit our website at www.olivermiller.org or call 412-835-1554.

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

Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce

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December Events at the Peters Township Public Library The Peters Township Public Library has announced the following events and activities for the month of December. For additional information, please call 724-941-9430.

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Party – Sunday, December 4 at 6 p.m. The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Party will be held in partnership with the Peters Township Parks and Recreation Department. Festivities will include lighting and decorating the outdoor township tree at 6 p.m., followed by holiday caroling. Refreshments, visits with Santa, and holiday crafts for children will also be offered in the library.

Edible Holiday Treats – Thursday, December 8 from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. For kids and parents of all ages. Make beautiful and edible holiday treats with your family. Register in the Children’s Department.

Gift Wrapping Party – Monday, December 12 from 6–8 p.m. Having trouble sneaking around to wrap gifts for that special someone? Bring them to the library. We’ll provide the festive wrapping paper, tape, scissors, and bows—you provide the presents. For kids and parents of all ages. Let your holiday spirit shine. Register in the Children’s Department.

Trinity Bell Choir – Tuesday, December 13 from 7:30–8:30 p.m. The Trinity Bell Choir of Trinity United Methodist Church will provide a relaxing hour of beautiful holiday bell music.

Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Library after the performance. Register for this program at the library’s circulation desk or call 724-941-9430.

Family Ornament Night – Thursday, December 15 from 6:30–7:15 p.m. Make special ornaments with the whole family for the holidays. Add some sparkle to your holidays and your holiday gift giving. Register in the Children’s Department.

Holidays and Hot Cocoa – Thursday, December 15 from 6:30–8 p.m. Start the holiday season in style in the Teen Room. We’ll decorate our Teen Room tree, make cookies, drink hot cocoa, and sing some of our favorite holiday tunes.

Holiday Movie Marathon – Monday, December 19 from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. For kids and parents of all ages. What better way to celebrate the season than by sharing your favorite holiday movies with your family? Even better, how about an all-day movie marathon at the library?

Drop in for your favorite or stay for more. Christmas cheer and good tidings await. Bring a holiday snack to share and begin the week before Christmas in a special way. Register in the Children’s Department.

Purchase Local Artist’s Christmas Cards for Charity Arlene L. Popko, known as the “Lady Behind the Paint Brush,” an artist and resident of Peters Township, is selling a holiday card titled “A Wreath of Christmas Legends,” with net proceeds benefiting The Fisher House Pittsburgh. Each package contains 10 cards and envelopes of the same design for $20 (shipping and handling included). The card, an original painting by Arlene, describes the symbolism of the herbs and greens used at Christmas.

To order cards, please email cards4charityusa@yahoo.com with your full name, mailing address, telephone number, email address, and the number of packages of cards desired (no credit cards please). All requests will be acknowledged with order and payment details. Deadline for ordering is December 10.

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Elizabeth Rotary Club Student of the Month

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Be A Real Live Santa Claus ...

The Rotary Club of Elizabeth is proud to announce Alexa Hospodar as this year's first Student of the Month.

This award recognizes students according to their service and community involvement. Alexa is a member of the InterAct Club at Elizabeth Forward High School. She has received the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA), and this summer she attended the RYLA Conference at LaRoche College. Alexa is also a member of the Math League, The Future is Mine, the Leos Club, and the Physics Club.

Her plans include college for pharmacy or engineering.

Bus Traveling to DC March for Life The High School Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville is sponsoring a bus for those wishing to participate in the “March for Life” to be held in Washington, DC on January 23, 2012. The bus will board at 5:45 a.m. and leave the St. Francis parking lot at 6 a.m. Allowing for a short stop in Breezewood, PA, the group should arrive in Washington around 10:30 a.m. A stop at the National Shrine and an 11 mass will precede the march from the National Mall to Capitol Hill, where the group hopes to meet with their representatives. The bus will leave DC at 4:30 p.m. and will stop for dinner. The bus will return to Finleyville around 11 p.m.Cost for the trip is $20, which covers the bus trip and a snack. Each traveler is responsible for a packed or a purchased lunch at Breezewood and the cost of dinner. For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Mary Jane Jurofcik at 724-348-4511 or jurofcik25@gmail.com.

Help Americans Less Fortunate This Christmas With the economy affecting so many families in the United States, we at Coldwell Banker have decided to create a fun product that can be shared by many Americans during the holidays, and with every purchase, you will be contributing to the www.1000forathousand.com Christmas campaign for needy families across the United States.

With the help of so many of you, one of our goals is to have companies purchase 1,000 stickers at $3 each to give 1,000 families funding for Christmas in 2011. Larger or smaller donations will also be accepted, and individual purchases are greatly appreciated, too. We will also add your name or company's name to our website if you would like to be recognized as a contributor.

We will be looking all over the country to find the families that really need this help. In fact, if you know anyone that really needs this kind of help please go to our website at www.1000forathousand.com and tell us about them or write a letter to us.

This is a creative idea with long lasting effects. We together will touch so many lives this year and we will continue this for as many years as we can. This is a big opportunity to be a real, live Santa Claus. You can make a difference for just $3.

New Sonogram Arrives at Monongahela Valley Hospital ED Thanks to the generosity of The Auxiliary of MonVale Health Resources, Inc., Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Emergency Department just received a state-of-the-art piece of equipment to better serve patients – a new portable bedside sonogram unit.

“This is the latest model and represents the standard in emergency medical practice,” said Brenda Walther, M.D., medical director of the Emergency Department (ED). “It will allow our doctors and nurses to do rapid assessment of trauma patients and could even potentially decrease the need to transfer patients out of the community to a trauma center.”

The equipment is called a SonoSite M-Turbo. ED Director Kelly Macheska, R.N., said that focused ultrasound examinations provide immediate information and can answer specific questions about patients’ conditions as well as assist with difficult procedures involving deep needle entry.

To the untrained eye, the new machine could be mistaken for a computer laptop sitting waist high atop a rolling IV stand. It weights less than seven pounds. The unit can be easily rolled to a patient’s bedside and fits easily into tight spaces filled with multiple medical staff members.

“The portable ultrasound will help reduce transfers, further increase patient safety and decrease

infection rates,” Macheska said. “It will really make a difference for our individual patients when we can get a quick read and determine if theirs is a trauma situation.”

Macheska said the main clinical conditions that could benefit from the new portable ultrasound include ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, central line placement, deep peripheral vein line placement, abdominal aortic aneurysm (weakened area of the body’s largest blood vessel) and thoracoabdominal (chest and abdomen) trauma.

“The MVH Emergency Department is already stateof-the-art, and this equipment has been on the ED wish list with its ability to provide an extra level of care,” said Dr. Walther. She added that this equipment will also help MVH attract and retain other talented physicians, who are using the portable tool in their training programs.

“I can appreciate how important this gift is to the ED,” said Ruth Antonelli, president of the Auxiliary and a licensed nurse. “I worked in a small ED in W.Va. smaller than MVH, and the faster you can help to diagnose patients or rule things out, the better.”

“As an independent hospital in the midst of fundraising for our substantial building projects, we appreciate these generous donations,” said Louis J.

Brenda Walther, M.D., (center) demonstrates how to use MVH’s new portable sonogram to visualize major blood vessels in the neck to more safely place a central IV catheter into the neck vein.

Student nurse intern Dawn Triscik of Monongahela is being examined, far left, and Kelly Macheska, RN, far right, assists.

Panza, president and CEO of MVH. “We are very proud of – and amazed by – how hard our auxiliary members work all year to help us improve patient care.”

The auxiliary has donated more than $3 million to Monongahela Valley Hospital in the last 33 years.

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Downtown Canonsburg Hosts Holiday Events Friday evening, December 2, downtown Canonsburg will be full of hustle and bustle, as a light-up celebration is being planned to ring in the holiday season from 5-7 p.m. DJ Kevin Simms will provide Christmas tunes, and guests can sing along, play a few games, and see a special guest! Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride throughout downtown, and plan to attend the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree in front of the borough building to end the evening.

The annual Santa Luncheon in Canonsburg is set for Saturday December 3, part of the Old Fashioned Christmas in Canonsburg event. Additional activities planned include a choral concert, craft making, hay rides and train rides, tours of the Canonsburg Fire Department, and some surprises! The St. Patrick’s Parish Youth Ministry is also holding a craft and vendor fair from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the parish hall. Reservations are required for the luncheon. Forms are available at the Our Town Cooperative office at 134 N. Jefferson Ave. and other locations in downtown Canonsburg or at www.downtowncanonsburg.org. For additional information contact the OTC Main Street office at 724-745-1515.

December Programs at the Pleasant Hills Library The Pleasant Hills Library will host an author’s night on Thursday, December 1 at 7 p.m. Local authors from Pleasant Hills and the surrounding communities will be available to discuss their published works and have them available for sale and for signing. Book subjects run the gamut of fiction and non-fiction. Authors in the South Hills interested in participating should contact the library at 412-655-2424 or email gealys@einetwork.net.

The Library will hold a Holiday Minute-to-Win-It event for families on Friday, December 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Game challenges of varying degrees of difficulty for all ages using traditional holiday items. Each challenge must be completed in a minute or less. Age-appropriate games will be available for every member of the family including adults. A $2 fee per person will be collected the evening of the event. Prizes will be awarded, and all children will receive a special holiday treat. Refreshments will also be served. Registration is required.

The Pleasant Hills Library sponsors two ongoing monthly book groups. New member are always welcome to participate, and extra copies of the month’s book selection are usually available for the asking at the front desk. The Murder and Mayhem Mystery Book Club will meet Monday, December 5 at 1 p.m. This month's selection is Sugarplum Dead by Carolyn Hart. The Book Group will meet Monday, December 19 at 7 p.m. This month’s selection is Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews.

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Mon Valley Cloggers to Perform at Century III Mall Clog dancing is a percussive dance easily described as “hillbilly tap dance.” The Mon Valley Cloggers are the area’s most prominent cloggers, having performed over 685 shows in southwestern Pennsylvania since organization in 1992. The cloggers will perform Christmas dances at 7 p.m., Saturday December 11, in Macy's court at Century III Mall.

The group also offers free lessons that will allow the beginner to try clog dancing before committing. Every Monday in January from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., lessons will be free. Those who continue pay $20 for each 10-week session. As dancers often have to travel a distance to find clogging, bring a friend or neighbor to accompany you. A companion will shorten the ride and you will have someone to share experiences. As an added incentive to learn clogging, if you come with a friend and both continue to the second session, it will be $10 each.

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

December Events at Peters Township Parks and Recreation Are you looking for something to do? Need to earn some community service hours? We could use your help here at the Peters Township Recreation Center. We have some upcoming events that could use the help of a few volunteers. For more information, contact Lisa Whittaker at (724) 942-5000 for more details.

Frosty’s Fun House - December 4, 2-4 p.m.

Join us for Frosty’s Funhouse at the Community Recreation Center for some holiday crafts. Let your little artist make a masterpiece you will cherish forever.

Children ages 10 and under are invited. Parents must remain with their children during the event.

Tree Lighting Ceremony/Holiday Party - December 6, 6 p.m.

Come to the Peters Township Municipal Complex to see Santa arrive in his shiny red fire truck. Enjoy the holiday sounds of the season, followed by visits with Santa, crafts, and refreshments in the library immediately following the tree lighting ceremony. All ages are welcome. Come out and meet your neighbors!

Senior Luncheons - Holiday Luncheon - December 14, 12-2 p.m.

Luncheons are held at the recreation center on the second Wednesday of the month, we just ask that you bring a covered dish to share with everyone. For further information, call Lisa at 724-942-5000.

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Monongahela Halloween Parade Provides Fun for All

Tracey, Reilly (3), and Alexis (7) won the small group prize.

Brownie Troop #51414 came all dressed up in costume, ready to participate in the parade.

Monongahela- Donora Lions club won the large group prize.

Ethan Doran (2) of New Eagle watches the fire trucks and parade participants pass by.

Residents from near and far gathered in costume on October 26 to enjoy Monongahela’s Annual Halloween Parade, sponsored by the Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce. The parade featuring the Ringgold High School Marching Band began at Chess Park, and judging for prize money took place at the Monongahela Aquatorium. PHOTOS BY RON PUDLOWSKI

Upcoming Events at Jefferson Hills Library Jefferson Hills Library plans the following events for December. All classes and events will take place in the Community Room at the Jefferson Hills Borough Building, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills. Please call 412655-7741 for more information, or register at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org.

Locks of Love Event – Saturday, December 3 from 1–4 p.m. Receive a free haircut by area professional hair stylists when you donate at least a 9-inch ponytail to the Locks of Love organization, which provides wigs for children who have lost hair due to illness.

Bead-a-thon – Tuesday, December 6 from 6–8 p.m. with the Bead Lady, Kathy Shomo, the author of Anyone Can Bead. Easy Techniques for Creating Jewelry. Shomo will provide instruction, beads, and other materials for her students to make beautiful jewelry pieces. Cost is based on the projects chosen. Registration fee is $5 and will be deducted from the price of your project.

Create a Christmas Floral Centerpiece – Monday, December 19 from 6:30–8:15 p.m. with Jim Carlucci of Della Robbia Florist on Gill Hall Road in Jefferson Hills. Cost is $45.

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Ghouls, Goblins, and Ghosts Take Part in FVFD Halloween Parade

Look who’s in the driver’s seat as Noah’s Ark rolls into the Community Center.

Guess where these folks blew in from?

The Ringgold High School Marching Band led the parade – check out the wind section.

It’s back to the Chain Gang for me folks.

By Paul Chasko

Halloween is pretty much history, but we can take a peek back at what a great time the kids had at the annual Finleyville Volunteer Fire Department (FVFD) Halloween Parade. There was the usual mix of ghouls, goblins, ghosts and a lot of cute little kids in not-soscary costumes. There seems to be a rule—the older kids get, the scarier they need to look on Halloween.

The parade began at 7 pm, led by the A scary rolling graveyard goes by.

Ringgold High School Marching Band in their Halloween costumes. The parade route took the kids and parents past the FVFD garage, which lit up Washington Avenue like daylight with its high-power light pedestal deployed from the top of the big pumper. Everyone in that area got a good look at the costumes.

The parade wound its way up to the Finleyville Community Center where the final judging took place. Members of the FVFD handed out prizes to the kids having the best costumes in various categories.

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

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Whitehall Place Celebrates Halloween

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By Charlotte Hopkins

Elizabeth Residents Love Halloween!

Whitehall Place Apartments celebrated Halloween with their residents as a way to show them appreciation.

To make Halloween extra special, they hosted a parade and passed out coloring books, crayons, and candy to the children. Verizon also joined in and set up a booth to pass out cookies and treats.

Elizabeth Borough's annual Halloween Parade was held on October 24 at 7 p.m., and in spite of rain earlier in the day the parade went on and was well attended by many trick-or-treaters in all sorts of costumes. Treat bags were distributed at the Elizabeth Borough Fire Company. PHOTOS BY ALICE HARRIS

Anabell Lopez-Richnafsky is ready to march in her pretty pink teddy costume along with the Great Pumpkin, Dmitriy Doroshenko-Bohanok.

The children of Whitehall Place were happy to march at the holiday parade. Pictured are (front) Abraham Doerve, Maline Tarley, (back) Annie Tarley, Elizabeth Doerve, and Thembi Mtingiza.

Gathering to enjoy treats at the end of the parade are Gracie Miller, Sarah Oris, Ronnie Lamb, and Madison McMeans.

A charming trio out for some Halloween fun together are Riley Stoken (Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz), Anna Jamison (Alice in Wonderland), and Aurora Musisko (Tinkerbelle).

The Telegdy Family: Hanna (pirate), Shelby (skeleton) Chase (pirate), Tracey (pirate), and Nadine and Paul as themselves, holding Morgan (bumblebee Pooh).

Shantel Baldensperger poses with her children, Bo (Mickey Mouse) and Brooklyn (Minnie Mouse).

Enjoying the parade are Melissa and Michael Hart and their children, Savannah (Wonder Woman), Addison (Rapunzel), and CJ (Bumblebee).

Whitehall Place Apartments teamed with Verizon to create a fun Halloween night for the children!

Monongahela Eat 'N Park Holds Fundraisers for Children's Hospital Sock Hop – December 1 at Hey Andy’s in Monongahela Holiday Bash – December 3 at the Monongahela Fire Hall Tips for Tots – December 7 at the Monongahela Eat ‘n’ Park, featuring teachers from Ringgold North and South.

Round Up, Round Up your Change for Children’s Hospital – December 8 through 12 at the Monongahela Eat ‘n’ Park.

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

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

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

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.

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

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Pleasant Hills to Celebrate Illumination Night This year’s Illumination Night, “Light the Christmas Spirit,” will be held at Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church on December 10 from 5 to 8:30 pm. Fun, excitement and old-time Christmas spirit await children, teenagers and adults as they enjoy both outdoor and indoor activities. Outdoors, bonfires will be gathering places for people to drink hot chocolate and apple cider and savor old-fashioned s’mores.

Returning annual favorites are free horse and carriage rides along Pleasant Hills’ picturesque streets and free trolley rides to view sections of the borough stunningly aglow with spectacular arrangements of Christmas lights and yard displays. Indoors, music, dancing and singing, a live manger scene, and other special attractions, such as balloon creations, will appeal to everyone. The Thomas Jefferson High School Chorus promises an uplifting performance. Refreshments, food and a baked goods sale will tease taste buds. While admission and entertainment are free to everyone, donations of current non-perishable food items will be collected for the Cloverleaf Food Bank. Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church is located at 199 Old Clairton Road, two blocks from the Pleasant Hills Cloverleaf. Caryl Drive (behind the church) will be closed, and parking on nearby streets is limited. Free shuttle buses will run from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. from the Pleasant Hills Municipal Building parking lot at 410 East Bruceton Road and the Pleasant Hills Middle School lot at 404 Old Clairton Road. While admission and entertainment are free to everyone, donations of current nonperishable food items will be collected for the Cloverleaf Food Bank.

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Monongahela Area Library Hosts Vendor Show

While adults shopped in the main section of the library, children enjoyed crafts and holiday entertainment in the Activity Room.

Plenty of girls and women enjoyed getting glamorous for the holiday event with feather extensions.

Monongahela Area Library recently held a fundraising event by hosting a vendor show. The vendor show was hosted by the Friends of the Library over the course of two days. An emphasis was placed on getting many local crafts people as well vendor reps. The Friends pledged the proceeds of the event to replacing the damaged ceiling tiles in the library that had mounted up over the time the roof was in need of repair.

Even Mrs. Santa Claus stopped by the Monongahela Area Library's Craft & Vendor show during the community's "Santa Claus is Shopping in Town" event. Here she's checking out the handmade dolls, aprons and eyeglass cases offered for sale by Irene Dzimiera.

SWPA REGIONAL SCIENCE BOWL REGISTRATION SOON TO BEGIN The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory (DOE/NETL) and the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), South Campus, invite your team to register for one of the premier scientific events for students - the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Science Bowl (SWPA)! The annual SWPA Regional Science Bowl will be held in 2012 and features a science and math competition as well as fabulous prizes.

Quiz tournaments are set up for high school and middle school divisions. Registration opens on October 1, and all high school teams must be registered by January 13, 2012 and middle school teams by January 20, 2012. The high school science bowl will be held February 25, 2012, and the middle school science bowl will be held March 3, 2012. Finals for the top four teams from both age groups will be held March 7, 2012.

The final competition will be held at NETL, located in South Park, PA. For more information, visit http://swpasciencebowl.com/. Become a fan on Facebook to receive valuable updates, deadlines, reminders, and other important information regarding the 2012 SWPA Regional Science Bowls. Then, face off against the other talented teams to see who represents the region at the national competition in Washington, DC!

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LOCAL NEWS

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Monongahela Hosts Light Up Night

Santa's cutest elf, Ethan Doran of Chicago, IL, took a break outside of "My Coffee Shop" after all the festivities. He was in town visiting relatives for Thanksgiving.

Connor David of Monongahela anxiously awaited Santa's arrival and started the line for pictures.

The Ringgold High School Marching Band led the arrival of Santa.

Dancers perform from The Dance Co.

by Lori of New Eagle.

Victoria Reichel of New Eagle enjoyed her first time on Santa's lap.

A Living Nativity was presented by First Baptist Church, including animals and a chorus.

By Miranda Startare

Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce along with People’s Natural Gas and Slagle Roofing, Inc. recently helped light up the city of Monongahela in preparation for the Christmas season.

The light up celebration “Santa Claus is Shopping in Town” was held on Friday, November 18, 2011 and included entertainment by local DJs, acoustic performers, and the Ringgold Marching Band. Dancers from The Dance Company by Lori of New Eagle also performed throughout the town. Businesses hosted open houses with free treats for visitors. Luminaries lined the streets from Dierken’s Pharmacy to New Eagle, and Christmas trees were on display decorated by local students, including those from Madonna Catholic Regional School and Ringgold Elementary South. PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA MILTON

PACKING COMPANY

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

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LOCAL NEWS

Finleyville Community Center Hosts Fall Fashion Show Finleyville Community Center hosted its annual fall fashion show, sponsored by Phyllis’ Fashions. The new fall clothing line-up was modeled and displayed and was then ready for immediate purchase by those that attended. To see the fashions, you can stop by either of Phyllis’ two locations, 602 W. Pike Street, Meadow Lands, or 1821 Lincoln Way, White Oak. PHOTO BY RON PUDLOWSKI

Take a Break from Holiday Cooking With Homemade Soup Take Out Take a break from holiday cooking with some homemade soup from the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God’s monthly Soup Take Out on Wednesday, December 7. December’s homemade choices include wedding, cheesy cauliflower or chicken and dumpling for $5 a quart with two rolls. Orders must be placed by Thursday, December 1, by calling 412-885-7232. Soup orders can be picked up on Wednesday, December 7 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Sisters’ Motherhouse, located at 3603 McRoberts Rd. The Sisters Craft Shoppe will also be open the evening of the Soup Take Out. Crafts offered include Steelers and baby items, holiday decorations, and the famous hand-crocheted scrubbers. The Craft Shoppe is also open 1-3 p.m. weekdays and 1-4 p.m. on Sundays for the month of December. All proceeds from soup and craft sales benefit the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God. For more information about the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God, please call 412-8857232 or visit www.osfprov.org.

Pats for Paws Raises $576 for Animal Friends Pet a dog. Help Animal Friends.

That was the theme of Pats for Paws, a charity fundraiser at Robert Morris University on November 18, conducted by Rebecca Lindberg, a 2008 graduate of Peters Township High School, and Lauren Butler of Grand Bahama Island. Both women are seniors at Robert Morris University. In exchange for a voluntary cash donation, students and facility at the university patted heads and rubbed bellies of dogs up for adoption by Animal Friends. The students also sold baked goods and raffled off gift baskets during the four-hour event.

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MVH’s Leaders Build Toys to Kick Off Toys for Tots Season While practicing team-building skills at a recent leadership conference, Monongahela Valley Hospital’s leaders transformed the Education Conference Center into a Santa’s workshop of sorts as they assembled toy tricycles to donate to the area’s Toys for Tots program.

After a half-day conference for the hospital’s ambitious sysU.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program tem-wide improvement effort Coordinator Wally Fronzaglio (left) poses with MVH’s called the Journey to John Bogdan and Doug Prentice with the toys assembled Excellence program, hospital

by MVH management during a recent teamwork exercise. leaders were divided into Bogdan and Prentice are the hospital’s Toys for Tots coordinators and Fronzaglio has been the local groups of six or more memToys for Tots coordinator for 23 years. bers. Each group was given a toy tricycle still in the box, which they assembled as a team using tools they had brought just for the purpose.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program Coordinator Wally Fronzaglio of Donora attended to witness the toy assembly, which has become a favorite annual event for the leaders.

Fronzaglio then accepted the Monongahela Valley Hospital leaders work to assemble toys for the local Toys for Tots program. They donated toys afterwards on are Marsha Chacko, diagnostic radiology supervisor; behalf of the Mon Valley Tim Hamstra, supervisor, special procedures; Leathernecks, a group of 167 Debbie Burkhardt, chief radiation therapist; and former Marines of all ages and Susan Betler, blood bank supervisor. walks of life that “does all the legwork” for the local Toys for Tots program. The group formed in 1986 to run a local collection program.

Fronzaglio said he looks forward to the MVH event because it serves as the official kickoff for the Toys for Tots campaign.

Anyone interested in contributing may send checks made payable to Toys for Tots by mail to Wally Fronzaglio, 204 Brokaw Ave., Donora, PA 15033, before December 15. Checks received after that date will be used for the 2012 drive. For more information on the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program, visit www.toysfortots.org. For information on the local program, contact Coordinator Wally Fronzaglio before 5 p.m. at 724-797-3824 or after 5 p.m. at 724-379-8888.

Learn English as a Second Language Rebecca Lindberg and Lauran Butler (center) organized the pats for Paws charity fundraiser for Animal Friends. Volunteers from the organization helped out.

Do you or someone you know need to learn English as a second language? Crossroads Ministries in Finleyville is offering free English as a Second Language classes for adults. All proficiency levels are welcome.

Classes will be offered on Mondays at 7 p.m. for a 10-week session starting on January 16. Please call 724-348-1620 to enroll, as space is limited.

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LOCAL NEWS

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All 4 Them Dog Rescue Joins Online Data Base of Adoptable Homeless Pets

Holiday Bazaar at Concordia of the South Hills

All 4 Them Dog Rescue, Bethel Park, has joined other area animal welfare organizations that list their homeless pets on Petfinder.com, the oldest and largest database of adoptable animals on the Internet. The site currently has over 359,000 homeless pets listed, and it is updated continuously.

More than 13,500 animal welfare organizations in the U.S., Canada, and other countries post their pets on the site. All 4 Them Dog Rescue pets may be viewed at www.petfinder.com/shelters/PA799.html.

A potential adopter enters search criteria for the kind of pet he or she wants, and a list is returned that ranks the pets in proximity to the zip code entered. Adoptions are handled by the animal placement group where the pet is housed, and each group has its own policies.

Concordia of the South Hills will host a holiday bazaar featuring vendors, crafts, a basket auction, and bake sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 6 in the independent living social room. Selections include knitted items, jewelry, purses, ornaments, and items on the holiday bargain table. For more information, call 412-278-1300. All proceeds benefit the CHS Caring Fund.

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LOCAL NEWS UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

HOME IMPROVEMENT

AUCTION

AMAZING OPPORTUNITY!!

MYLAN PARK EXPO 500 Mylan Park Lane., Morgantown, WV 26501

Sat., DEC. 10th @ 9AM From I-79, take Exit 155 toward WV-7. Turn Right onto Chaplin Hill Rd. Right onto Mylan Park Ln. Keep Left at fork to stay on Mylan Park.

KEEP CASH IN YOUR POCKET BY BUYING TOP QUALITY AT AUCTION!

www .pbauctions .com www.pbauctions .pbauctions.com KITCHEN & BATH: Kitchen cabinet sets by Silver Creek with all high end amenities..A MUST SEE, granite counters, sinks, faucets, showers, vessel sinks, tubs, drop in & pedestal sinks, top brand toilets & sinks.

FLOORING: Carpet rems in res, comm, berbers, plush, carpet padding, ceramic, 2 ¼” to 5” hardwoods in oak, maple, cherry, hickory, walnut, some w/ 15-25 yr. warranty! Travertine, marble medallions, laminates. EXTERIOR DOORS: P/H entrys in oak, mahogany, maple, & cherry, fibergls & steel, 1/2 & full view, leaded glass, 9 lts, sliding & patio. INTERIOR DOORS: P/H, raised, 6 panel in oak & pine, flush, bifolds, french. WINDOWS: Vinyl, new const & replace. TRIM: Casing, baseboard, crown, chair rail, spindles, handrails, newels, & stair parts in oak, pine, & primed. NAME BRAND TOOLS: Frame, finish, brad, & floor nailers, air comps, drills & saw kits. SPECIAL INT: A-grade pavers & stone, light fixtures, lock sets, lever door sets, entry locks, electrical supplies.

TERMS: Inventroy subject to change. Drivers license to register. cash, check or c/c.

7% buyers premium. AUCTIONEERS: Tim Paranzino #1564, Tom Paranzino #1475, Jim Kellner #1476, Don Braham #1802.

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Bright Lights Sparkle in the Rainy Night at Monongahela Valley Hospital On November 21 when the thermometer registered slightly above 40 F and there was a drizzle in the air, the community turned out for Monongahela Valley Hospital’s 27th Annual Light-Up Night Celebration.

“Everyone’s life is different and we all have our own joys and struggles. But as I look out among so many friends and neighbors, I see the spirit of this Valley,” said Louis J. Panza, president and CEO of MVH. Laura Hermann, age 6, of Monongahela, who’s The festivities began at 7 p.m. when been a very good girl, presented Santa with a Mr. Panza thanked Joseph’s Nursery long list of gift ideas at Monongahela Valley Hospital’s 27th Annual Light-Up Night event. from Monessen for providing the interior and exterior decorations as well as for donating the special gifts that the children received. Appreciation also was expressed to The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. for contributing many hours of their time to ensure that the evening was a success.

Ringgold High School’s Razz-Ma-Tazz singers provided the musical entertainment.

Two children of MVH employees pulled the giant light switch to light up the night. The children, who were selected by random drawing, included: Maggie Mateya, the 7-year-old daughter of Dennis Mateya, M.D. and Terri Mateya, a rehabilitation coordinator; and Clayton Smith, the 6-year-old son of Anne Smith, fund development assistant, in the Office of Fund Development.

The highlight of the evening was when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in their sleigh to spread holiday cheer.

South Park Township Collecting Toys for Tots South Park Township, in conjunction with the United State Marine Corps, is again participating in the Toys for Tots program. Collection boxes will be placed in the lobby of the South Park Township Administration Building and the South Park Township Library. Residents are asked to contribute only new toys. Toys are not to be wrapped in gift paper so that items can be sorted by the appropriate gender and age category. Toys will be collected until Friday, December 16.

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Let's Talk Real Estate

by ROGER DOLANCH Broker/Owner Century 21 Realty

LOCAL NEWS

ulation density.

The program boasts 100% financing, which translates to a 0% down payment requirement. Another huge advantage is that there is no Mortgage Insurance Premium to be paid either up front at closing or monthly over the life of the loan. This means that a buyer may qualify for a slightly higher purchase price. When compared to an FHA Insured mortgage you discover that the FHA requires a 3.5% down payment and has both up-front and monthly costs for the Mortgage Insurance Premiums.

Here are the basics: The house has to be located in a rural area as designated by USDA. Remember that urban areas (cities and most boroughs) do not meet the criteria. To determine the designated areas visit the USDA Website or contact one of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty professionals.

The household income must be moderate (not low income!) as determined by USDA. USDA will need to see the tax returns for the borrower and their spouse.

Again, to see if you qualify visit the USDA Website or contact one of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty professionals.

100% Financing Still Available Originally the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan programs were designed to assist buyers in the acquisition of rural farm properties.Today it is totally different because property eligibility is now determined by it's location within what the USDA defines as “eligible” areas. These areas cover a lot of territory within Washington, Westmoreland and Fayette Counties to name a few within our service area. It may be used to purchase single family dwellings, multi-units and there are even rural business programs available!

The program has some income limitations based on family size, income and area. That said, it is not considered a low income program. It is designed specifically for moderate income families to advance property ownership in areas of lower pop-

CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty Realtors of the Month Congratulations to Ellen Brawdy and Tom Jolley for the two-way tie for Century 21 Frontier Realty's Agent of the Ellen Brawdy Tom Jolley Month for October. Both bring their unique methods of helping their clients successfully buy and sell real estate. We are proud of their career accomplishments and their loyalty. Call today to ride the wave of their continued success.

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If it appears that the household income exceeds the moderate income thresholds established by USDA, don't throw in the towel just yet. USDA allows for deductions for child care and medical expenses as well as for children, students, handicapped, disabled, and elderly members of the household that will be living in the USDA guaranteed property.

This is not a farmer's loan! As a matter of fact the land value of the property can't exceed 30% of the appraised value.

The house has to be in fairly good condition. The appraisal type used is a FHA appraisal so make sure that there aren't any safety related challenges (i.e. missing banisters, peeling paint, exposed electric) The seller, if negotiated, may pay all closing costs and pre-paids (i.e. escrows for taxes and insurance). We have had USDA loans in which the home-buyer's only outof-pocket cost as part of the purchase transaction was to pay for a $450 appraisal report and credit checks.

If the house appraises for more than the purchase price the difference can be used to pay for closing costs and pre-paids (i.e. escrows) if not negotiated as paid by the seller. This is the only loan program currently available that allows for closing costs to be rolled on top of the purchase price.

The house can not have an in-ground pool.

USDA has no restriction on whether you are a first time home-buyer or move up home-buyer.

This loan program is only for primary residence (i.e. no second home or investment properties).

The minimum credit score is 620. In the old days USDA would ignore derogatory credit with a 620 score but has recently become much less lenient on this topic.

All property types including single family homes, town homes, modular, and even condominiums qualify for this loan program. Manufactured homes such as single and double-wide do not qualify!

There is no maximum mortgage amount, but the house does have to be considered moderate in size.

In conclusion, it's still possible to buy a home with a very minimal out of pocket expense! Just call one of our CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty offices to begin your first or even your next home purchase today!

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

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LOCAL NEWS

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WSO Expands Traditional Concert to Include “WSO All-Star Choir” Holiday traditions are something we all look forward to, and as 2011 comes to a close, the Washington Symphony Orchestra will take time for its traditional “Ho, Ho, Ho with the WSO” on Saturday, December 3 at 8 p.m. at Trinity High School.

According to WSO Music Director and Conductor Yugo Ikach, “Each December the WSO enriches one of the most memorable and joyous times of the year by presenting a concert to celebrate and begin the festivities on a happy note.”

Ikach has teamed up this year with two local choral directors, Trinity’s Marsha Owens and Quaker Valley’s Matt Boice, to offer the audience not only a great orchestral performance, but the first-ever “WSO All-Star Choir.” A select group of high school and college singers from the area will make up the choir to perform some special music and classic favorites. Another tradition at the December concert is the audience sing-along. This year the audience will hear some new arrangements by the WSO’s principal violist Andrew Adams.

The past two WSO December concerts have been sell-outs, so advance tickets are recommended. Tickets can be purchased at Citizens Library in Washington or any branch of Washington Financial, as well as online at www.washsym.org or call 724-223-9796. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

Daley Legislation Honoring Nathan Kennedy Moves in Senate Legislation introduced by state Rep. Peter J. Daley II, D-Fayette/Washington, that would name an interchange of Interstate 70 in Claysville after a fallen soldier was moved from the Senate Transportation Committee and is poised for consideration by Senate members.

The bill (H.B. 584) would name the Claysville interchange off of Interstate 70 for Sgt. Nathan P. Kennedy, who was killed April 27, 2010 in Afghanistan while serving in the U.S. Army. “This young man served his country with valor, integrity and courage,” Daley said. “He gave his life protecting and defending our country and the freedoms that we enjoy. We must never forget his life or his heroism.”

Kennedy was a 2004 graduate of McGuffey High School and a three-time section wrestling champion. He was an Army Ranger, serving as a sniper assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division based in Fort Carson, CO. “To his community, he was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend,” Daley said. “In naming this interchange after Kennedy we not only honor his memory and memorialize his patriotism and valor, but also we draw attention to the many brave men and women who today are serving their country.”

The legislation was unanimously voted out of the Senate Transportation Committee. The House already passed the bill. A favorable vote, without amendment, by the Senate is needed to advance the bill to the governor’s desk.

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LOCAL NEWS

LESS

Road Traveled The

By Wild Willy Frankfort

Bad Santa known to yell and scare Christmas is coming— the “bejesus” out of kids you can tell by all the decand adults. On a recent orations in the malls and field trip with my son and stores. We haven’t been his classmates, I had to inundated with “holiday” raise my voice… had not adds this year because the one problem with my economy doesn’t warrant group at all! My wife calls the investment. Sounds it the “Dad” voice. If I like a job for Krampus! used this voice around my “Who is Krampus?,” kids or their friends, bad you’re probably asking?

William “Wild Willy” things were about to hapHe is the mythical being Frankfort pen. For example, years who follows St. Nick around and inflicts fear and rebukes to ago while at a popular toy store, I was the children who make the naughty list. in an aisle of the store where the kids Sounds weird, but it’s true. I had no were running amuck! The parents idea of the name, but I guess you could were trying their best to deal with the sudden surge of “the I wannas,” but call me a modern-day Krampus.

Now, the mythical being mentioned nothing was working. My child saw the above bears a striking resemblance to mêlée and decided that he would stand the popular conception of the wicked up in the shopping cart and make a witch crossed with a goat… which even grab for the nearest toy. I simply used on my worst hair days I can’t pull off. “the Dad’s Voice” and said, “Sit down!”

But in my own genteel way, I try in Long story short, even some of the parevery way to emulate the attitude of ents sat down.

These days, it’s just enough to let dear ole’ Krampus.

I have been known to let my beard the beard grow long, wear a red hat and grow out, wear red clothing, and yell at carry a small pad and pen with me naughty children. This works in the wherever I go. I have been known to months before and after the Christmas point at them and start writing in my holiday and has even been known to notebook. I will not lie, I have made work by accident. To be quite truthful, some children cry… but I have made I have friends who have convinced their several mothers smile and have been children that I am Santa Claus. If you thanked by everyone.

Call me Krampus! Beware bad chilthink about it, it could be true. I have a great workshop. I become very scarce in dren—I have a pen, a naughty list, and the months before December. I make a “Dad’s Voice.” And I’m not afraid to gifts that are sent all around the world, use any of ‘em.

Please remember our veterans and and I have been known to make toys for children of all ages. (Insert “Twilight our service people overseas. Take the time to drop them a note or send a gift Zone” background music here.)

I am not Santa, of course, but really when you can. They’re doing their job could pull of Krampus. I am irked by to keep us safe so we can enjoy the holchildren behaving badly. I have been idays.

Clairton Meal on Wheels Needs Volunteers The Meals on Wheels program of Clairton is in dire need of volunteers. We need people to drive and/or deliver the food to homes. Currently we serve 80 85 individuals in West Mifflin, Pleasant Hills, Jefferson Hills, Glassport, and Clairton. Please help and call Ann at 412-233-6325 for more information.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Rams Club Hall of Fame Dinner a Gala Event Past Graduates and Current Students Honored

By Paul Chasko

The Rams Club “big event” of the year was a huge success, honoring past graduates and current students. Eight outstanding individuals were inducted into the Rams Club Hall of Fame, and a group of current Ringgold students were selected for outstanding achievement awards.

The Rams Club Hall of Fame dinner was held in the Ringgold High School cafeteria. After an enjoyable dinner, Master of Ceremonies Bradly Bassi got right down to business introducing a group of Ringgold students, each of which was selected to receive an achievement award for outstanding accomplishments in the arts, academics, and/or athletics at Ringgold High School. The students honored were: Chianti Sivek Jonathan Smith Chris Spahr Joey Wall Carlee Wiley Christina Wills Haley Mendola Jessica Mesina Olivia Meyer Rachelle Michalowski Lane Poziviak Shannon Robison Natalie Karpinsky Percy “Quad” Law Ashley Lenik Demetrius Louis Cory Lutz Brennah Martik Brent Davis Garrett Devenney Alexis Griese

Ram’s Club Hall of Fame inductees are (sitting) Paul Zolak, James Renacci, Deirdre B. Bair, Faye Irey (accepting for her husband Frank), (standing) Paul Adkins, Ron Paglia (accepting for Floyd France), Ashley Totedo Swanson, and Laura Magone.

Thirty-one Ringgold High School students received the Ram’s Club Achievement Awards.

Jarod Hancock Hunter Homa Connor Kane Tamika Arnold Kathryn Bandi Amanda Bickel Christina Brletich Steve Chappars Alfon Cook Rebekah Sipin After honoring current students, the following alumni of Ringgold and/or its predecessor schools of Donora and Monongahela high schools were honored by inducting them into the Ringgold Ram’s Club Hall of Fame. This year’s inductees are:

Sunshine Kids

Deirdre B. Bair – The critically acclaimed author of four published biographies for which she received the National Book Award and the Gradiva Award with two of her biographies chosen by the New York Times as “Best Book of the Year.”

Laura Magone – A filmmaker, photographer, author, and organizational development consultant. She worked previously for Duquesne University, where she led consulting and training activities.

Ashley Totedo – A 1995 graduate and basketball star of Ringgold High School.

An All-American Basketball Center at Shippensburg University, she was instrumental in the team winning four straight PSAC championships. She is now a lawyer, having graduated from the Duquesne University School of Law. Paul Zolak – A Donora native and 1965 graduate of Donora High School.

A stand-out athlete in both football and baseball. He pursued education and athletics at California University of Pennsylvania followed by a master’s degree from West Virginia University.

He later coached football and taught at Ringgold before entering his 20-year period as the Ringgold Athletic Director.

James Renacci – New Eagle native and 1976 graduate of Ringgold High School. He attended Indiana University of PA earning a BS in business. His business acumen led him to become owner and manager of 60 businesses. He now resides in Ohio and entered politics to become an Ohio Representative to the US House of Representatives.

Frank Irey, Jr. (Posthumously) – Born in Monongahela and a 1948 graduate of Monongahela High School. In his contracting/construction business, over 40 years he Irey Jr., Inc. constructed a multitude of roads, bridges, water plants, schools, hospitals, offices, stadiums, mining complexes, and amusement parks. He served as President of the Mon-Valley Progress Council for 30 years with a focus on pulling together coalitions for the construction of the Mon Valley Expressway. He passed away in 2002.

Floyd France (Posthumously) – Writer/reporter and later managing editor of the Monongahela Daily Republican for 43 years. Prior to that, he was a sportswriter. His interest in Mon Valley sports led to his founding of the Mon Valley Football Conference in 1925, which soon became the Big Five Conference including California, Charleroi, Donora, Monessen, and Monongahela. He was President of the Monongahela Area School Board and, after the Merger of Monongahela and Donora school districts, became the first President of the Ringgold School Board.

Paul Adkins – A tenor, he enjoys a career in the United States and abroad.

He has performed with 11 city-based opera companies, including a long list of symphonic engagements. His television credits include co-producer and featured solo artist in the international PBS broadcast of “The Musical Legacy of Roland Hayes.” He has been a frequent guest soloist on many telecasts.

He is an adjunct Assistant Professor for the University of the Arts, Philadelphia.

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

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Recent Local Death Notices Amoroso – Loretta R., 94, of Monongahela died Tuesday, October 25. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Ashcraft – Russell, 65, of Finleyville died Monday, October 10. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Bodzer – Betty, 54, of Elizabeth died Monday, October 17. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Burkholder – Harriett A., of Monongahela (Carroll Township) died Sunday, November 13.

Arrangements under direction of William A. Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle.

Castor – Hazel C., 96, of Finleyville died Saturday, November 5. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Cole – Jack, 65, of Monongahela died Monday, October 17. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Davis – Darlene Quarture, 63, of Finleyville died Tuesday, November 22. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Douglas – Robert, 59, of Monongahela died Friday, October 7. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Fedela – Josephine, 86, of Jefferson Hills died Saturday, October 22. Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Gilmer – James A., 42, of Monongahela died Thursday, September 22. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Hodgson – Charles I., 69, of Monongahela died Monday, October 10. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Kirsopp – Anna M., 84, of Finleyville died Monday, October 24. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Leech – Carol, 69, of Finleyville died Thursday, October 13. Arrangements under direction of Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

Lohr – Frances, 92, of Monongahela died Monday, October 24. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Lusk – David M., 82, of Monongahela (Victory Hill) died Monday, October 31.

Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Martik – Marian E., 84, of Monongahela died Sunday, November 6. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Patton – Irene W., 94, of South Park died Monday, November 21. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Pontier – Jospeh S., 94, of Monongahela died Thursday, October 20. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Redick – Paul L., 83, of Finleyville died Monday, November 21. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Schneider – William, 56, of South Park died Thursday, November 3. Arrangements under direction of Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

Sollosi – Mary Ann, 59, of Finleyville died Friday, November 18. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Timco – Howard E., 77, of Finleyville died Saturday, October 29. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Toth – George, 79, of Monongahela (formerly of Forward Township) died Friday, September 23. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Jones – Helen, 91, formerly of South Greensburg (daughter of Melanie Latimer of Finleyville) died Sunday, October 16.

Arrangements under direction of Slater Funeral Home in Jefferson Hills.

Valiani – Beatrice, 96, of Orange, VA (formerly of New Eagle) died Saturday, October 15.

Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Jordan – Mark M., 53, of Monongahela died Thursday, October 27. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

VanKirk – Frances, 67, of Finleyville died Saturday, October 29. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Kebles – George B., 62, of Finleyville died Monday, October 24. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.

Yuhasz – Barbara A., 58, of Monongahela died Monday, September 26. Arrangements under direction of Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

December 2011 ———————————————————————————————————————— Visit our website at www.unionfinley.com for more details on this meeting.

Union Township Supervisors Discuss Airport Ordinance and Roadslides

By Paul Chasko

What was to have been an agenda-setting meeting under the new two-meetingsper-month arrangement agreed to by board members last month was business as usual with a full agenda of regular business items prepared before the meeting.

There was a full slate of items that were addressed at the meeting, so it seems the Union Twp. Board will simply continue with two regular business meetings per month instead of one.

The only issue of any significance addressed was a limited action on enforcement of the Airport Hazards Ordinance violation by property owners having trees growing into the flight path of the Finleyville Airport runway as determined by PennDOT’s Aviation Division. Maps indicating the specific location of the trees in question were said to be completed by the UT Engineer and were requested by representatives of Finleyville Airport present at the meeting. There was a closed executive session at the end of the regular business meeting addressing the issue. Board Chairman Parish removed himself from the executive session during these discussions, as Parish property is involved. At the conclusion of the executive session, Solicitor Makel announced that items involving possible litigation were discussed.

Supervisor Spahr then made a motion that Union Twp. acquire the services of a land appraiser and have the approximately 10 acres involved appraised for current value. The motion carried. It was not made clear why Union Twp. needed to pay for an appraisal of this property, as the meeting was adjourned at that point.

Board Chairman Parish mentioned that slides are threatening township roads.

Slides are affecting Gilmore, Coal Bluff, McChain, and Pumpkin Center roads and

will be expensive to contain and repair. A house is also being threatened by the slide on Gilmore Rd. Work continues on the Road Bore/Cut Agreement that will be used in the township. The solicitor will draft the agreement using a specification provided by the township engineer and an existing agreement from another township. The agreement will define the base and top coating for any repair and dictate the length of the repair strip on either side of the cut or boring.

A holding tank request at 4026 Finleyville Elrama Rd. was discussed, and the solicitor recommended an escrow account to cover pump-outs and told the board it would be the property owner’s responsibility to contract for them. This prompted the solicitor to recommend using a holding tank agreement that could be drafted using a sample document that he (the solicitor) would supply. The decision on the holding tank was held until the next meeting when the agreement should be ready.

After adjournment, Supervisor Spahr commented on feedback that some residents were floating accusations that the supervisors wanted two meetings per month for the extra pay. He commented that their annual pay is capped by law at $2,500. He also commented that the board needs to make the township’s financial records more available to the public in some manner. Board Chairman Parish made it clear that he is not happy with the two-meeting arrangement. Following the meeting, he commented that in addition to paying the five supervisors to attend, the township will incur a significant increase in payroll costs for the solicitor, secretary/treasurer, engineer and zoning officers to attend. The vote for two monthly meeting may be revisited.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

Jefferson Hills Adopts Preliminary 2012 Borough Budget Councilwoman Janice Cmar Joins Budget Committee

By Jim Caldwell

With the tentative passage of the 2012 Jefferson Hills Borough budget at the regular meeting on November 14, council signaled that unless there are major, unforeseen circumstances they are not raising real estate taxes.

All six members present voted in favor; President Chris King had a work-related conflict and was absent.

Millage will remain at 5.63 for the coming fiscal year: 05.08 for general purposes, 0.45 for fire services, and 0.1 for ambulance services.

Councilwoman Jan Cmar volunteered to join her colleagues, Councilmen Tracey Khalil and Scott Albrecht, on an overseeing committee to assist the Borough Manager and Finance Officer in tracking the budget and keeping it tight without cutting necessary services. Vice President James Weber presided over the meeting and thanked her for offering her help.

Monies from the Pennsylvania Foreign Fire Insurance were distributed equally among the three volunteer fire departments in the Borough.

Jefferson 885 VFC, Floreffe VFC and Gill Hall VFC all received $35,495.82.

A number of motions passed, granting preliminary or final approval to various plans. Stosic Site land development was approved; Hunters Field received preliminary approval to revisions and final approval for Phase III. Phase 3B of Patriot Point was given the go-ahead for recording purposes.

A proposal was accepted for $4,900 to buy forks for Public Works’ end loader. Council accepted bids for the SHACOG Purchasing Alliance Fall Commodities and confirmed to them the borough’s intention to undertake Phase 6 of the Demolition Project.

And lastly, $45,174.91 was approved for payment to Soli Construction for the 2011 Sanitary Open-cut Repair Project.

The sale of surplus borough property – four used police cars, two dump trucks, and two lawn mowers – was authorized to the highest responsible bidders.

Of great note was the motion to

schedule a public hearing at 6:30 p.m. on January 4, 2012 for comments on the proposed ordinance to amend the Borough’s Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.

This amendment specifically deals with the zoning, safety and environmental concerns, placement, and traffic and noise of proposed Marcellus Shale wells in the Borough.

It identifies 13% of the Borough where drilling can take place far from hospitals, residential areas, schools, daycare centers, and nursing homes.

It also prohibits living quarters on site for drilling company employees. The ordinance will be discussed in detail at the meeting, unless the Pennsylvania State Legislature votes in December to limit a municipality authority in regulating Marcellus Shale drilling and granting lawmakers overriding power. Members of council voted to have the borough manager write a letter stating full opposition to this part of the pending bill and strongly urged Jefferson Hills residents to write letters.

During the fire report from Gill Hall VFC, Lt. Officer Mark Breier informed council that in September, Chief Adam Galis and he joined friends from the Mt. Lebanon VFD as well as local Jefferson Hills residents to form Team Gill Hall Fire. Together, they participated in the 5K Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes Run in South Park. This is a foundation to assist our nation’s veterans and in particular the families of Fallen Heroes. The Team finished the run in 27 minutes and was recently congratulated by the Foundation in person for having the largest participating team and best time. They were awarded a cash prize, which Officer Breier stated would be used toward purchasing better equipment for the department. The entire council expressed their congratulations with a round of applause.

Frank Sockman and John Albrecht (no relation to the councilman) were appointed to the Civil Service Commission, and Mark Pastore was re-appointed for a five-year term to the West Elizabeth Sewer Authority Board.

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Nottingham Landowners and Officials Take on Challenges of Natural Gas Drilling

By J.R. Brower

Two items on the agenda at the November 21 Board of Supervisors meeting confronted the reality that natural gas drilling has come to Nottingham Township and is here to stay. Earlier this year, Chesapeake Energy completed its first Marcellus Shale well on the Harbison property off Cooper Road. Presently, Range Resources is beginning drilling activities in the township. The township has had its drilling ordinance in place for over a year and even has its own lease in place with Range.

As the gas boom picks up intensity in Nottingham, landowners are starting to take notice. Drilling is limited to tenacre tracts per the ordinance, and many have already signed leases. On November 15, landowners from Nottingham and Somerset townships gathered at the Nottingham Municipal Building to hold an informal meeting.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss forming a landowners’ association to deal with various drilling issues.

Resident Jim Patterson e-mailed the Board of Supervisors to summarize the informal meeting and to request that they be allowed to hold future meetings at the municipal building. The board approved their request to hold quarterly meetings for the purpose of educating landowners about pertinent issues.

The other agenda item was acknowledgement of an Action Alert from the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors warning them of pending legislation in Harrisburg that usurps local authority over natural gas drilling regulation. The legislation (House Bill 1950 [PN 2689]), which already passed the House and is now in the Senate, as described in the alert contains sweeping and unprecedented provisions that would severely damage local government’s ability to deal with not just natural gas drilling activity but could extend to all local ordinances as

they pertain to this industry. Board Chairman Peter Marcoline said that he feels the legislation is influenced by the wishes of the natural gas industry.

Supervisor Todd Flynn agreed saying, “The state’s original intent is one thing, but what they put in afterwards is another.”

Range Resources has made no bones about the fact that they don’t like having to deal with local ordinances, which a spokesman compared to having to get a different driver’s license in each township where you drive. Range is currently challenging an ordinance in South Fayette, which they claim is prohibiting them from acting upon leases.

Flynn said he has already contacted state legislators about the legislation.

Marcoline suggested that the township draft a letter stating the board’s objections to the bill, which will be sent to appropriate legislators and Governor Tom Corbett.

In other business at their November 21 meeting, the board: • Announced the tentative budget for the year 2012 in the amount of $1,691,870. The tentative budget will be advertised with availability for inspection at the township office. Final adoption is expected to take place at the December 19 regular meeting.

• Acknowledged receipt of the Assessed Value Certification from the Washington County Department of Tax Revenue in the amount of $27,506,690.

• Acknowledged receipt of a letter from District Attorney Steven Topriani introducing the Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program, which can assist victims of crime with services including case status, compensation and case outcomes.

• Acknowledged receipt of a letter from Washington County-based Pet Search, an organization involved in animal rescue and placement, requesting that Nottingham Township make a donation.

Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Elizabeth Borough Council Notes ~ October 24, 2011

by Alice Harris

The October Elizabeth Borough Council Meeting opened with guest Mary Black stating she stopped back to check on the progress of complaints issued by her last month regarding the deplorable conditions of properties surrounding her home. Council assured her they are working on these issues and will get back to her soon.

A grant to cover 50% of the costs of new vests for officers whose vests are reaching expiration was announced by Mayor Householder. Officer John Snelson is looking into applying for additional grant monies in hopes to cover 100% of the vest cost.

Elizabeth Borough is heading toward ending this year in better financial shape than in recent years. Council asked that John Snelson (Police) and Rick Lewis (Borough workers) prepare

both a ‘needs’ and ‘wish’ list for the upcoming 2012 budget talks.

The Borough engineer will check for any structural damage caused by the recent water line break at Grant St. Elizabeth Borough Police Department monthly complaints include: Accident 4; Alarm Business 1; Alarm Residence 1; Animal Complaint 2; Assist Officer 11; Assist Person 1; Attempted Break In 1; Burglary 1; Check Welfare 3; Civil 1; Criminal Mischief 2; DUI 2; Department Information 1; Disabled Vehicle 1; Disorderly Conduct; Disturbance 5; Domestic Verbal 5; EMS Call 14; Escort Detail 1; Fire Call 3; Harassment 3; Health Hazard 2; Juvenile Complaint 2; Lost Property 1; Miscellaneous 10; Missing Person 1; Retail Theft 1; Road Hazard 3; Shots Fired 2; Suspicious Person 1; Suspicious Vehicle 4; Theft 3; Unauthorized Use 1; Total: 95 calls.

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

MUNICIPAL NEWS

No Borough Tax Increase in 2012 for New Eagle

By Ken Askew

At their monthly meeting on November 1, 2011, New Eagle Borough Council announced that the 2012 budget includes no change in the Borough’s 34-millage tax rate. The 2012 budget of $591,275 is just slightly higher than the 2011 budget of $588,576. An increase of 10.91% for Police expenditures was offset by reductions of 0.96% in the General Government category, and 4.42% earmarked for Public Works. The Borough charge for garbage service remains at $95 per year.

Due to the resignation of Councilwoman Rona Berdar, effective October 4, 2011, William Sherry was sworn into office to complete the remaining two years of her term. A 10-year resident of New Eagle, Sherry was the only person to submit a letter of interest for the Council position.

The New Eagle volunteer firemen have selected June 9, 2012 as the next date for their annual car cruise.

To reduce speeding traffic, Council has been asked to install stop signs on Monroe St., at the 1st Ave. and 3rd Ave. intersections. Since the signs are not in stock, they will have to be ordered.

To facilitate removal of snow from Main Street when the accumulation is at least 5 – 6 inches, Council tasked Solicitor Berggren to develop an ordinance which would require that vehicles parked on Main Street during such weather conditions must be moved to Chess Street until Main Street is cleared of snow.

A question was asked as to whether New Eagle had an officially designated disaster shelter. Consensus was that the Firemen’s Social Hall on Chess Street would serve that purpose. However, a shelter as defined and approved by the Red Cross will not be pursued, due to their extensive contractual requirements.

Another question was raised, about the high cost of worker’s compensation insurance for the Borough. Council felt that their rate is indeed very high, but noted that the plan covers both the volunteer firemen and the two Borough employees. A factor in pushing up the rate is that the Borough has suffered three disability claims in the past ten years by their employees. Council has attempted to get insurance through other carriers, but only the current agency is willing to insure them.

Public Nuisances Discussed at South Park Township Board of Supervisors Meeting

By Andrea Earnest

Two of the previous three public nuisances were taken up at the November 14 Board of Supervisors Meeting. Action was taken on the property at 2828 Sebolt Road to reject the public nuisance as the repairs to the construction have been very positive, according to Code Enforcement Officer Gary Wargo. The Board agreed to table for 60 days any action on the property at 3897 Brownsville Road, as they have made good progress, but the owners discovered more inside work they must complete before finishing work on the outside of the property.

After a number of actions were voted on and taken, Police Chief Joseph F. Ferrelli reported that there were 480 service calls, 16 arrests, two traffic citations, no parking citations, 14 warnings, three reportable accidents, nine non-reportable accidents, 83 emergency calls, six fire calls, and six deer calls.

Vice-Chairman Walter C. Sackinsky thanked Township Manager Karen Fosbaugh and Administrative Assistant Jordanna Lehman for all their efforts to make the Halloween party successful. They estimated that between 150 and 175 children attended the event.

Full minutes of the meeting are available at the township office.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Elizabeth Borough to Update Zoning Ordinance

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On Monday, December 12, the residents of Elizabeth Borough are invited to attend a public meeting regarding updates to its existing zoning ordinance. The meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Elizabeth Borough Community Center located at 207 3rd Street.

This is the first of two public meetings that will be held for the project. The project began in September of 2011 and is anticipated to be completed next year.

Christy DeMuth of Mackin Engineering Company, project consultant states, “We are at a point where we are ready to present the draft zoning map, which shows the proposed updated zoning districts, to the public for review and comment. We have been working with a project committee to revise the current districts and uses to be more compatible with not only what is happening now, but also the desired vision for the community.”

The meeting will discuss the project background and why the Borough is undertaking an update to its existing zoning ordinance. Residents will be given the opportunity to comment on the proposed districts and uses and identify any potential issues or concerns that require special attention.

Larry Duvall, Elizabeth Borough Councilman emphasizes, “It’s important to remember that the Borough has had land use controls in place for many years.

What this process aims to accomplish is to update the ordinance to be consistent with what is happening in the community today.”

Mackin Engineering Company has been hired to facilitate the zoning ordinance update. For more information, please contact Christy DeMuth, Senior Planner at Mackin Engineering Company, at 412-788-0472 or cdemuth@mackinengineering.com.

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December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Peters Township Voters Defeat Drilling Referendum: Council Concerned with State Regulatory Proposals

By J.R. Brower

On November 8, more than 82% of the voters said “no” to a referendum question that would have banned natural gas drilling in Peters Township. A total of 5,196 “no” votes were cast versus only 1,105 “yes” votes. It is ironic that those who voted for the ban totaled less than half of the number of the 2,400 residents who signed the petition to get the measure on the ballot in the first place.

Both Council Chairman Robert Atkison and Vice Chairman David Ball expressed gratitude to the voters on being intelligent enough to fully understand the issues enough to defeat the referendum. Following the election, Atkison expressed dismay at the animosity of some of those who oppose

drilling and hoped that in the future the township could take on issues as one group.

The Peters Township Marcellus Shale Awareness group, which put the referendum on the ballot, gained national awareness in October through an article in the Wall Street Journal. Publicity resulted from trying to ban drilling entirely in a community by voter referendum, something that’s never been done before. Before the election, Council challenged the referendum in court to keep it off the ballot but was unsuccessful. Their contention was that the referendum’s passage would make illegal changes to the home rule charter, violate the township planning code and the state Oil and Gas Act, and invalidate prevailing state court decisions.

After the court rejected the referendum injunction in the weeks prior to the election, the township launched a direct mail campaign urging voters to vote against the referendum. The mailings stressed that if the referendum passed, it would essentially invalidate the township’s own natural gas ordinance, which is considered to be very strict. Also addressed was the inevitability that the ban would open up the township to millions of dollars in liability for legal challenges from both drilling companies and leaseholders. The mailings stressed the strong possibility of future tax increases to defend the lawsuits.

At their November 14 meeting, Council revealed that its members have been e-mailing legislators in Harrisburg stating their opposition to

proposed legislation that would essentially allow the state to take over natural gas drilling regulations and preempt municipal authority for zoning decisions. The measure, which has already passed in the House and is now in the Senate, would set a state standard for local zoning ordinances related to drilling and authorize the state attorney general to determine whether municipal rules are too strict.

Council voted 6-0 to approve a resolution opposing state preemption of zoning authority over gas drilling.

The resolution will be sent to legislators and the governor. In summing up Council’s response to the state’s proposal to take away local authority to regulate natural gas drilling activities, Atkison said, “We need to keep pressure on them.”

Peters Township Council Approves Lights for Soccer Field

By J.R. Brower

Despite objections from several members, Peters Township Council voted to approve a $204,000 lighting system for a soccer field at Peterswood Park. The action at their November 14 meeting took place after Council tabled a vote from September in order to determine that participation level of the soccer association and other youth sports groups and determine the cost of applying artificial turf on the field.

There were 11 bids, and the lowest was awarded to Schultheis Electric to contruct the Musco lighting system.

Peters Township Soccer Association President Jeff Crummie told council that his group was willing to contribute between $220,000 and $250,000 to the effort, but only if the township agreed to add artificial turf as part of the improvement project.

Assistant Township Manager Paul Lauer said that including the turf would

bring the total cost of the project up to $1.4 million. Money for the project has already been allocated through an $11 million bond issue that was approved two years ago. He said that although the field will be used primarily for soccer, it could also be used for football and lacrosse. He said that turf bidding will begin soon, and the field should be completed by fall.

Objecting to the expenditure was Councilman Robert Lewis, who is of the opinion that the township spends too much to accommodate youth sports.

“Most of the people in this community are not playing soccer,” he said. He commented that it is unbelievable that in light of the present economy the township would spend almost $1.5 million to light and turf a soccer field. He said that township officials should wait and discuss with the school district the possibility of soccer teams sharing a recently completed $4 million soccer field at Pleasant Valley Elementary

School.

Crummie told Lewis that the school district does allow the soccer association to use its fields, but school sports take priority, oftentimes resulting in scheduling conflicts. Councilmen Frank Arcuri and James Berquist supported the need for the field improvements. Arcuri said they would solidify the recreational needs of the township for the next five years. Berquist said that the improvements will “let us catch up with the growth of our soccer and football programs.”

In other business at their November 14 meeting, council: • Agreed to reduce the amount of a road repair damages payment request to Health Care REIT/Paramount Assisted Living from $28,000 to $20,000. The truck damage occurred on Crosswinds Drive during construction of the facility, which is now complete. Council agreed to lower the amount because the developer smoothed out a huge pile of earth

on the site and also made improvements on Crosswinds Drive by extending the cul de sac.

• Accepted with regret the resignations of Dennis McAteer from the Environmental Quality Board and Robert Jacobs from the Peters Township Sanitary Authority. McAteer has served since 2009, and Jacobs has served since 1993.

• Approved fuel bids through the SHACOG Purchasing Alliance for projected usage of 32,000 gallons of gasoline and 21,500 gallons of diesel fuel.

The lowest bidder was Glassmere Fuel Service, and the value of the contract was $152,346.

• Scheduled a public hearing on January 23 at the request of South Hills Honda, which wishes to expand its operation by purchasing 1.94 acres from Forest Lawn Gardens Cemetery. They are requesting that the property be rezoned from R-1 residential to C-2 commercial.

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Forum on Property Tax Reform Held in Finleyville Grass Roots Support Needed for House Bill 1776

By Paul Chasko

State Representative Rick Saccone and Representatives Jim Cox (R-129, Berks County) and Rep. George Dunbar (R-56 Westmoreland County) are supporting hearings and passage of House Bill 1776, which would totally eliminate property taxes and switch PA education funding to a consumption-based tax plan with more control on education spending at the school district level.

These representatives were in Finleyville on November 10 conducting an open forum on the subject of property tax reform and pitching for muchneeded grass roots support for passage of House Bill 1776, the Property Tax Independence Act. They were joined by David Baldinger, PTCC (PA Taxpayer Cyber Coalition) Administrator.

Baldinger is a walking information resource and avid supporter of the proposed tax plan.

The intent of the forum was to educate the public on the bill and to solicit

support for its passage into law. The most salient features of the bill were summarized at the forum: 1) The proposed Act completely Representative eliminates the Jim Cox (Berks County) taxing ability explains the goals of House Bill 1776. of local school boards. The only allowed tax would be an optional EIT or personal income tax for major projects, and that would be subject to a no-exception taxpayer referendum.

2) The Act would be funded through a moderate expansion of the sales tax base to include more goods and services that are not now taxed with basic necessities such as utilities, home heating fuels, and health-related expenses as exceptions.

David Baldinger, PA Taxpayer Cyber Coalition Administrator, and Representative Jim Cox discuss the tax issue.

3) The Act would increase the PA Personal Income Tax (PIT) by 0.92% from 3.07% to 3.99%. This is essentially a dollar-for-dollar swap for the elimination of the 0.5% EIT and local nuisance taxes.

4) Under the first phase of the plan, all school districts would initially receive 100% funding sufficient to meet all financial objectives, but a per-student expenditure level would be established for each district. This initial funding level will receive yearly base increases indexed to the rate of inflation. Upward or downward adjustments in funding will also be made to account for increases or decreases in student enrollment.

5) Proposed companion legislation to the Property Tax Independence Act will provide for a constitutional amendment, which guarantees that, once replaced, school property taxes would be gone forever and that future legislature could never reinstitute the taxing of our properties.

Further details of the plan are available at www.ptcc.us.

The state representatives and Baldinger are actively urging taxpayers to get behind the passage of the Property Tax Independence Act by signing one of the many petitions being circulated throughout PA supporting

Representative Rick Saccone keeps the forum moving along.

Representative Rick Saccone explains his point of view to one of the attendees at the Property Tax Forum held November 10 in Finleyville.

passage of the Act and writing to their state representatives, senators, and Governor Corbett adding voice to their support or by forming a local advocacy group. Representative Saccone stated that forums, like the one conducted in Finleyville, held throughout PA have clearly indicated that property tax reform is a major concern of taxpayers.

Representative Cox and Baldinger made it clear that past “partial fixes” were dismal failures and that action must be taken now. They urged taxpayers to go to the www.ptcc.us website to gather more details on this important legislation and to support its passage.

REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the January issue is

DECEMBER 10

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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No City Tax Increase in 2012 for Monongahela

By Ken Askew

Jason Beck, of Boy Scout Troop 1131, opened the November 9, 2011 meeting of Monongahela City Council by outlining a project he is proposing for his Eagle Scout project. He has offered to renovate the Mounds baseball field dugouts, by replacing the roofs and painting the walls. Council was pleased to approve the project.

Next, the Girl Scouts were represented by Cassie Lignelli, who proposed to establish walking trails for her Gold Award and senior project. The trails will be one and two miles long, centered at the Monongahela Library. Likewise, Council was enthusiastic about her idea.

Last month, Anthony Neccia, Jr. complained about excessive mud or dust on Route 837, where trucks exit the Monongahela Iron & Metal Company site.

The facility’s owner pledged to lay coarse stone at the exit to alleviate debris being tracked onto the highway, but failed to do so. Then, Neccia introduced the two new business owners of G&H Quality Auto Care, at 130 E. Main Street in Monongahela (former site of an Amoco gas station). One of the owners, Howard Henninger, spoke about his concerns for kids getting off the school bus on the busy road by his business, but was referred to Ringgold School District for future discussions for change. He also requested and was given the OK to place a jersey barrier across a back street near his business.

Carol Frye, of the Monongahela Area Historical Society was pleased to report that 150 people attended a book signing with her co-author Laura Magone, for their new historical book titled Monongahela City. Copies are available at the Society building at 230 West Main Street in Monongahela, or by calling 724258-6432, or on their website at www.monongahelahistoricalsociety.com Joe Muntan, Assistant Fire Chief in Monongahela, announced that the fire department will be conducting a boot drive on November 19 from 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. to raise funds for a local young girl with leukemia.

Sarah Phillips made yet another appearance to appeal for a crackdown on derelict buildings in the City. She asked those in attendance to raise their hands if they want to live near: A drug house? Junked cars? Too many vehicles crowded on a property? A backhoe or dump truck in a backyard? A tractortrailer? A backyard filled with junk, building supplies, carpeting, or toys? A front porch cluttered with junk? High grass? Overgrown bushes blocking the view? A property where taxes are not paid? Of course, hands did not go up.

Then, she requested that City ordinances be posted online, to make them readily accessible. When asked why community standards were not being maintained, she was told that Ordinance vioThe 2nd Reading of Bill 6-2011, “Police Pension Eligibility” was approved; no details were provided.

Councilman Tom Caudill submitted the following 2012 budget for consideration: $723,730 Public Affairs $1,183,817 Accounts & Finance $112,500 Public Safety $440,783 Streets & Improvements $69,600 Parks & Property $2,530,430 Total Expenditures $2,474,931 Total Income -2,530,430 Total Expenditures $ (55,499) Difference Nevertheless, the tax millage remains at 23 mills.

The Monongahela Library sent a thank-you letter to the City in appreciation of their donation to the Library roofing project.

Recycling bins will be installed at the Mounds recreation area and the Aquatorium by the end of the month. Proceeds will be earmarked for city parks.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has agreed to take corrective action along the hillside in the 800-block of Route 837, where 200’

of pipe is dumping wastewater from the old Black Diamond Mine.

Renovation of the Aquatorium is proceeding—new bleacher seats will be installed in two weeks.

Congratulations were extended to Mayor Bob Kepics and Councilman Ken Kulak on their re-election to office.

On November 18, Santa Claus will arrive at the City parking lot next to the Slovak Club at 6:30 p.m., followed by an appearance at First Federal Savings at 7:00 p.m.

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

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MUNICIPAL NEWS

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Bethel Metals Takes Strides to Remedy Problems in West Elizabeth

By Charlotte Hopkins

The West Elizabeth Town Council began their November meeting with a moment of silence to honor Veteran's Day. All members were in attendance for the meeting, except Councilman Frank Magill. The first order or business at the meeting involved Bethel Metals; stating that they have been unfairly judged in the past, the owners were in attendance to defend the actions of their company and their employees.

Two residents also were in attendance to discuss issues that they were having about pieces of metal falling off of trucks, heading toward Bethel Metals, and causing flat tires. Bethel Metals responded by saying that the residents do not know for certain that the metal came from their trucks. The dispute went as follows: West Elizabeth residents brought with them two plastic sandwich bags of metal pieces that they collected from the corner of Border Street to

Second Street, which have been causing flat tires to residents’ vehicles.

They asked if metal detectors could be used to gather the debris, claiming it should not be the responsibility of the residents to do it. Joyce Bucy stated that she talked to several neighbors who have been affected by the strewn metal bits and reported that the Dodds family had four flat tires, the Macintosh family had four flat tires, her neighbors had three flat tires, another resident had two flat tires, and Bucy, herself, had nine flat tires. Bucy went on to say that she knows it is not entirely from Bethel Metals and that she is looking for ideas to remedy the situation.

Solicitor Matt Racunas tried to mediate the situation and asked if Bethel Metals and the residents could work together. He asked Bethel Metals, if just for neighborly reasons and out of respect to the residents, whether they could ask those who are causing the problem to be courteous and a little more careful. He was also glad that they were in attendance because it was healthy for the public to hear their side of the situation and know that Bethel Metals has in fact been trying to remedy the problem.

The owners of Bethel Metals stated that they have no problem being neighborly and they are trying to remedy the problem for the community but feel they are being repeatedly attacked by the media and misjudged by the residents. They stated, their drivers haul “very little scrap” from their yard and they mainly haul prod-

ucts from Tube City to other jobs.

They have worked harder to clean the parking lot and make sure metal is not left out when they close. They also stated that if residents do see trucks drop metal parts on the road to call them immediately so that they can diffuse any future problems. They do send a truck through town to check for strewn metal, and they will increase the number of times they do such checks.

Bethel Metals was also offended and “highly insulted” at the notion that it accepts stolen items for recycling. The owners stated that they always notify authorities if they feel that someone brings stolen goods to them and that they tell the customer not to come back. For example, when a customer brought a stolen wheelchair to them, they contacted the police right away and the item was returned to the Pittsburgh resident from which it was stolen. They want people to know that they always cooperate with the police and have never condoned accepting stolen property.

In Other News: Firefighter Gary Halt announced that the West Elizabeth Fire Company will host a spaghetti dinner on Saturday, December 3 and a Breakfast with Santa Claus on Saturday, December 10. Halt stated, “I would like to see some of the council members come out and support us.”

Solicitor Racunas introduced Krisha Mackulin to the council members.

She works in his office and may be attending future meetings.

On December 13 and 14, Jefferson Hospital is sponsoring the event, “Tour of Lights,” for the senior citizens only. Buses will pick them up at the West Elizabeth Borough Building at 6 p.m. and take them for a tour around the neighborhoods and then to the Jefferson Hills Borough Building for cookies, punch, and coffee. They will then bring them back to the West Elizabeth Borough Building at 7:30 p.m. There is a sign-up sheet at the West Elizabeth Post Office and Borough Building for those interested in attending. Please remember this is only for senior citizens.

Tomko has completed work near the baseball field. Residents should have received a letter from the Sanitation Authority stating if they have personal damages they need to contact the Sanitary Authority. The work on Route 837 will be completed by a separate contractor.

At last month's continuation meeting, the board voted to make a donation to Jefferson Hills Ambulance for the 12 years that they served the West Elizabeth community. They have never asked for a monetary donation, but the board chose to do this to express their appreciation for the job that they do.

Brian Mason is meeting with Emergency Management Coordinator Bill Wolfgang to give details of what he can do toward the repair work needed at the Borough Building.

The Elizabeth Borough Police answered 34 calls in the month of October and issued 4 traffic citations.

Coming in January

HEALTH NUTRITION & FITNESS

Call today for advertising opportunities: 412-249-8177

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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7jh^cZhh BZgX]Vci CZlh Rostraver Women’s Club and Area Businesses “Help Neighbors�

This Holiday Rostraver Women’s Club, in collaboration with Greater Rostraver, Monongahela Area, and Mon Valley Regional chambers of commerce; Chaney’s Natural Health; and other local businesses would like to help our neighbors by giving to local families in need this holiday season.

We will be collecting new items until December 14 at the following drop off locations: Greater Rostraver Chamber, 606 Broad Ave., 2nd Floor, Belle Vernon; Mon Valley Regional Chamber, One Chamber Plaza, Charleroi; Monongahela Area Chamber, 212 West Main Street, Monongahela; and Chaney’s Natural Health, 138 West Main Street, Monongahela. Items collected will be packaged and distributed the week prior to Christmas.

Please be generous in your donations. In many instances, the recipient families may have children of varying ages. Please feel free to donate any item(s) you can, and items will be paired with the best family. Money also makes a great donation. All money collected will be used to purchase additional items or to offer financial support to recipient families, if possible. Checks can be made payable to Rostraver Women’s Club.

If you know a family in need or you are a family in need, please contact Tanya Chaney for more information at 724-328-2834 or chaneysadmin@gmail.com.

Golden Paws Congratulates Pet Styling Academy Graduates Golden Paws Pet Styling Academy wants to congratulate our recent graduates of its eight-week Pet Styling Program: Katelyn McDonough of Elizabeth and Krista Carpin of Dubois. The academy offers those interested in a career in pet grooming the opportunity to learn professional pet styling. For Krista Carpin Katelyn McDonough more information about the Golden Paws Pet Styling Academy, please call 412-279-9383 or visit goldenpawspittsburghpa.com.

Promotion Campaign for Mon Valley Messenger Wins National Awards Graphic Design by Ocreations, Founded by Bethel Park Artist Shawn O’Mara

By Tracy Fedkoe

Promotion for the Mon Valley Messenger won second place in the Independent Free Papers of America (IFPA) 2011 National Advertising Awards for the category Self-Promotion, Run in Paper. The campaign was designed by Ocreations, a boutique design firm founded in 2006

by Shawn O’Mara of Bethel Park.

"I wanted an 'attention grabbing’ visual that stopped readers in their tracks and caused them to take notice of our new publication, the Mon Valley Messenger,� said Doug Haniford, publisher.

Ocreations partners Jesse Mader and Shawn O’Mara went to work and came up with an old-timemovie poster theme for the graphics and used quotations, reviews, The Mon Valley Messenger was the second place winner of the Independent Free Papers and eye-catching type treatment of America (IFPA) 2001 National Advertising to carry out the look. “We didn’t Award in the Self Promotion, category. want this advertisement to look like other ads in the paper,� said Agency by the Media Association of O’Mara.

In addition to the second place win, Pittsburgh, and their campaign for the the Mon Valley Messenger’s “Be Wise� Pittsburgh Irish Festival won the 2010 campaign earned a third place IFPA American Marketing Association award in the category Self Promotion, (AMA) Marketer of the Year Award in Printed Material. This campaign was the Minority and Women Owned used to promote the Union-Finley Business category. They specialize in Messenger and Mon Valley Messenger graphic design of logos, brochures, by presenting facts on the value of advertisements, websites, and signs as newspaper advertising. The IFPA is a well as full catalogs, magazines, and national organization of hundreds of media production.

"I have been working with Shawn and publishers of independently owned free papers across the country and receives his ocreations staff for over seven years. nearly 1,000 entries each year for the They have been instrumental in helping ten categories of awards in promotion, my company achieve our marketing editorial, photography, website, and and promotional goals. Their creativity is award-winning, as evidenced by the design.

Ocreations has also recently won national recognition for the work done awards including the 2010 Best Overall on our behalf,� said Haniford.

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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, December 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, December 15 only this month, at 8 a.m. at King's Restaurant, 155 McMurray Road in Upper St Clair. For more information, contact Jennifer Ohrman 412-531-5055.

• The McMurray Chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, December 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, December 14 and 28, at 8:30 a.m. at Panera Bread, 108 Trinity Pointe Drive, Washington. For more information, please contact Jessica Kestler at 412838-0064.

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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Holiday Event in Monongahela Enjoyed by All The Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce, Slagle Roofing, Inc. and Peoples Natural Gas hosted the “Santa Claus is Shopping in Town” event on Friday, November 18, 2011. We would like to thank Dettores Pizza, Del Rosa’s Pizza, First Federal Savings Bank, First Niagara Bank, Hitch’s Hut and Direkens Pharmacy for their generous donations.

We would also like to thank students from Madonna Catholic Regional School and Ringgold Elementary School South for decorating the Christmas trees located in Chess Park and First Niagara Courtyard. The trees were donated by Lone Oak Farm, Monongahela, PA. We also would like to thank the Monongahela/Donora Lions Club & Ringgold Marching Band for escorting Santa Claus to his house located at First Federal Savings Bank. Santa passed out treats to all, while Grilli’s Studio was available to take photos with Santa. Santa was so busy he had elves from First Federal Savings Bank help him.

Luminaries led the path for Santa from Sheetz to the Tasty Twist in New Eagle.

A special thank you goes to the Country Clovers 4-H group, Ringgold Interact Club, New Eagle Bakery, Keystone Bakery and Bartman, Inc. Local business windows were beautifully painted by the Ringgold Art Students and Ms. Teresa Campa.

Many businesses in the community held open houses and raffles. We would like to thank everyone who contributed and made this a very successful event. We are grateful for the the music of DJ’s Rock It Randy, Disco Inferno ~ Bill Lemon & performance from DNA in Chess Park, as well as dances performed by the Dance Company by Lori and Carolers from the Ringgold Middle School Raz Ma Taz Choir.

The biggest hit was the live Nativity performed by the members of the First Baptist Church. Thank you for reminding us the reason for the season.

Again, many thanks to those who participated & to those who helped prepare for this event! Merry Christmas to all from the Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce.

McMurray Rotary Club Hosts Charity Gala The 9th Annual McMurray Rotary Charity Gala was held on Saturday, November 9 at Rolling Hills Country Club. Over 200 guests enjoyed an evening filled with fun, knowing that all proceeds raised from the event were going to benefit the local and international charities Rotary member Dr. Deb Lenart and guests had a great time that the group supports. at the Charity Gala held November 9.

Included in the event were live, silent, and Chinese auctions; complimentary wine tasting; a golf ball toss; and dancing to the live music of Steve Fazzini and Band. The club would like to thank all of the sponsors, donors, and attendees who made the evening such a success.

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West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce Requests Chinese Auction Items West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce is respectfully requesting Chinese Auction items for its annual fundraiser. The Chamber will be hosting an Annual Christmas Dinner on December 15. All proceeds of the Chinese Auction will be donated to the West Jefferson Hills School District Angel Project. This is a program utilized by the school nurses to help children in need to have warm clothes and shoes for the winter months. This program is completely funded by donations and the generosity of our school nurses. Please help us lend a helping hand this year by contributing to the success of our fundraiser for those less than fortunate.

Please call 412-292-8843 and we will gladly pick up your donation. We greatly appreciate anything that you can offer to us to auction off at the dinner. Thank you in advance for your time and generosity.

Chamber Golf Outing Raises Funds for Peters Township VFD

Replace an old freezer and chill out with a $25 rebate.

Kerry Burgan, Peters Township Chamber President, presented Noel McMullen of the Peters Township Volunteer Fire Department with a check for $9,000 from the 22nd Annual Chamber Golf Outing. Corporate sponsor of the 2011 outing was The Washington Hospital.

Mon Valley Chamber Hosts Business Showcase The Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce held a Business Showcase at California University on November 16.

Included in the day’s activities was a tour of the university’s new Convocation Center.

Saving $25 on a new, ENERGY STAR® qualified freezer is just the start. You’ll also continue to save on energy costs as energy-efficient freezers can yield as much as $60 in lifetime energy savings.

See rebate form for details. Recycle your working freezer by calling JACO at 1-877-270-3521.

For other authorized recyclers or to learn more, visit energysavePA.com or call 1-877-928-8928.

PA Freezer Rebate with Recycling $25

42

West Penn Power Account Number (14 digits, identified on your monthly bill):________________________________ Total Purchase Price: $________________________________________ Name:_____________________________________________________ Street:_____________________________________________________ PA City:___________________________State:______Zip:______________

Email Address:_______________________________________________ Daytime Phone:______________________________________________ Style - chest or upright (circle one)

Defrost - manual or automatic (circle one)

Signature:______________________________ Date: _______________ By signing this form, I certify that I purchased the qualified appliance noted within for the West Penn Power (WPP) Service Address above, and I am a WPP residential electric customer. I am providing the requested information solely to be eligible to participate in WPP’s Rebate Programs and request that the personal information supplied by me be treated as confidential. I will allow a representative of West Penn Power to physically verify the product if requested.Allow 6-8 weeks for processing. ENERGY STAR qualified appliances can be identified by the ENERGY STAR label.

Customers may check the status of a submitted rebate by visiting rewardsbymail.com or calling 1-866-538-1204.

Questions about the rebate form should be directed to 1-877-928-8928. Rebate expires 12/31/11.

Your rebate request must include: • Completed and signed rebate coupon.

• Copy of your sales receipt dated 180 days or less.

• Copy of Energy Guide label from your freezer.

• Copy of Appliance Turn-In Order form available from authorized recycling agency.

Limit of 1 rebate coupon per household per calendar year.

New freezer rebate only available when replacing and recycling existing working unit. Visit our website for recycling rebate information.

Mail all required documentation to:

Freezer Rebate with Recycling Department 31041, PO Box 6110 Douglas, AZ 85655-6110

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Visiting Angels Washington PA/Pittsburgh West Present Alzheimer’s Seminar Visiting Angels Washington PA/Pittsburgh West will be holding a seminar Monday, December 5 at the Peters Township Library located at 616 E. McMurray Rd., McMurray, from 6 - 8 p.m. Local geriatric expert Elaine Dively will present “Understanding Alzheimer's Disease.” The seminar is free, and the public is welcome. Attendees will learn about Alzheimer’s disease and specifics on how to live with or care for someone who has it. They will also learn how to communicate with loved ones, common behaviors of someone with Alzheimer’s, safety issues, reasons they act the way they do, and ways to improve the quality of life for the Alzheimer’s patient and caregiver. This seminar is informative, and participants will receive detailed handouts to take home.

For additional information regarding this event or Visiting Angels Washington PA/Pittsburgh West, please contact Val Candee at 724-745-6857 or VisitingAngels.com/WashingtonPA.

Compulsive Eaters Anonymous Invites You 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 and free, and it works. Please keep coming back, no matter what!

Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Innovations Lecture Series Continues Urologist Jay A. Lutins, M.D., will be the next speaker at Monongahela Valley Hospital’s free community Innovations in Medicine lecture series, which features its physicians presenting educational health care talks.

Dr. Lutins discussed innovations in treating noncancerous prostate diseases on Tuesday, Nov. 15, at the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center.

He will repeat his Innovations presentation on Monday, Dec. 5, at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX on Jay A. Lutins, M.D. will be Route 51 in Rostraver. the guest lecturer at the Both Innovations programs are free and begin at 6 December 5th Innovations lecp.m.; light refreshments will be served. Reservations ture. are required by calling 724-258-1333 or by visiting the MVH website at monvalleyhospital.com.

In past Innovations talks, Dr. Lutins has spoken to large audiences on male urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction as well as female urinary incontinence.

MVH doctors have presented Innovations lectures each month to area residents since January of 2008. Attendees regularly submit ideas for future program topics.

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

HEALTH

MVH Offers Free Health Care Talks to the Public Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Innovations in Medicine lecture series continues in December with three MVH physicians presenting free, educational health care talks at the hospital’s Education Conference Center (ECC) in Carroll Twp. The doctors then repeat their programs at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX in Rostraver, just off of Route 51. Dates, physicians and their upcoming talks include: Monday, Dec. 5 – Jay A. Lutins, M.D., prostate disorders and treatments, HealthPLEX. Thursday, Dec. 8 – Vasu N. Malepati, M.D., smoking cessation, MVH ECC. Wednesday, Dec. 14 – Charles Lebovitz, M.D., advances in modern surgery, HealthPLEX. Wednesday, Jan. 4 – Vasu N. Malepti, M.D., smoking cessation, HealthPLEX. All programs begin at 6 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Make reservations for each Innovations program by calling 724-258-1333.

JRMC Holds Free Stroke Risk Screening

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

Gift Shop Holiday Open House - Friday, December 2 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. MVH Gift Shop. Take advantage of 30 percent off a great selection of gifts and clothing while enjoying refreshments and prizes courtesy of The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc. Baby Care Class - Monday, December 5 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Parents-to-be will learn baby care basics at this instructional session. For more information, call 724258-BABY (2229).

Innovations in Prostate Disorders and Treatment - Monday, December 5 at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver.

Join Dr. Jay Lutins, MVH urologist, while he discusses the latest treatments for noncancerous diseases of the prostate. To register, call 724-258-1333.

Justine Farmerie, Sue Mueller, Dave Graham, and Beverly Landrow spent the morning helping patients fill out forms and find direction to the test stations. Approximately 60 people received free testing.

A free Stroke Risk Outreach Screening Program, sponsored by Jefferson Regional Medical Center, was held on November 5 at the Blaine Hill Fire Hall, 409 Oxford Ave. in Elizabeth Township from 9 am - 1 pm. Clinical support was provided by Duquesne University School of Pharmacy.

Screening included a stroke risk survey, total choAnastasia Farmerie (patient) listens to instructions as Ryan lesterol, HDL, blood sugar Boro (right), Duquesne University School of Pharmacy student, prepares to prick her finger for the blood sugar and cholesterol readings, blood pressure tests and assures her it will just be a little “pinch.” Dr. Bob Laux check, carbon monoxide (center) teaches at the Duquesne School of Pharmacy and testing for smokers, body administers Clinical Support for the Outreach Program. fat analysis, and counseling on risk factors. Screening took approximately 30-45 minutes to complete and provided a patient guidance for possible medical issues. PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS

Understanding Your Meal Plan - Tuesday, December 6 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Learn more about food choices, dining out and how your eating habits affect your blood glucose control. Contact 724-258-1483 for more information and to register.

Breast Cancer Support Group Wednesday, December 7 at 6 p.m., ECC. This support group is free and open to all breast cancer patients and their families.

For more information, call 724-258-1455.

Understanding Your Blood Sugar Readings - Wednesday, December 7 from 6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Learn how to make sense of all those blood sugar readings you document.

Understand how your diet, medications, illness, and stress affect your blood sugars.

Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self Management Training is required. Contact the Center for Diabetes at 724-258-1483 to register.

Understanding Your Diabetes Medications - Thursday, December 8 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. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self Management Training is required prior to attending this class. Contact 724-2581483 for more information and to register.

Innovations in Smoking Cessation Thursday, December 8 at 6 p.m., ECC. Vasu Malepati, M.D., an ear, nose and throat specialist on staff at MVH, will discuss smoking cessation. To register, call the MVH Reservation Hotline at 724-2581333.

Managing Your Diabetes - Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, December 13, 14 and 15 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., ECC. A three-day, education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. To register, call 724-258-1483.

RSDS Support Group - Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m., ECC. The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Support Group is free and open to all persons with RSDS or related illnesses. For more information, call 724-929-9492.

Innovations in Advances in Modern Surgery - Wednesday, December 14 at 6 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver.

Charles Lebovitz, M.D., general surgeon on staff at MVH, will be discussing the technology and medical advancements that are integral parts of today’s operating room. To register, call 724-258-1333.

Breastfeeding Class - Monday, December 19 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229).

Cancer Support Group - Monday, December 19 at 7 p.m., ECC. For additional information, call 724-258-1704.

Arthritis Support Group - Tuesday, December 20 at 5 p.m., ECC. For more information, call 724-258-1321.

Advanced Carbohydrate Counting Wednesday, December 21 from 6 – 8 p.m., ECC. Diabetes self-management class that focuses on carb counting with everything you need to know. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1148.

MVH and Red Cross Blood Drive Wednesday, December 28 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., ECC. To register, call 724494-4090 or register online at redcrosslife.org.

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Home & Garden Play Dress Up With Your Bathroom (NAPSI)—When it comes to the bathroom, there are simple, stylish and budget-friendly ways to creatively dress it up. From the shower curtain to hooks or even your toilet paper, paying special attention to these seemingly ordinary, everyday objects is an easy way to make any bathroom an oasis.

Lifestyle and interior decoration pro Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan of Apartment Therapy has teamed up with the Cottonelle brand to share creative tips on how people can make the most of their bathroom.

FOR SOME FRESH IDEAS, SEE MAXWELL’S FAVORITE TIPS BELOW. • Long Is Luxurious. Make your bathroom look more elegant by making your shower curtain taller. Move your shower curtain bar up—right

below the ceiling—and install an extra-long shower curtain (or make your own). By closing the gap between shower curtain top and ceiling, you’ll eliminate an unsightly view and give the feeling of luxury and more space with taller walls.

• Swap Your Hooks. Towel hooks are easy to find and replace, but they are usually boring. Go shopping for some cheap, vintage hooks of different shapes and sizes, paint them all the same color and then hang them in a nice straight line. The detail and “collection” quality will make a big impact—even if they’re covered with towels.

• Flowers Always Impress. Fresh flowers in the bathroom OR even just ONE flower in a small vase on the bathroom sink or back of the toilet will make the room fresh and festive.

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 December 10)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the Union-Finley Messenger.

Anthony and Louisa Trello have been married for how many years?

What two cross country teams merged?

What was the Ringgold High School Class of 2012 recognized for?

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 November Pizza Puzzler winners!

JENNIFER RAYMOND - New Eagle • KIRSTINA POPEY- McMurray

• Roll Covers. Even small necessities, like your toilet paper, deserve storage in a modern roll cover. Just like how people care for their cotton swabs by storing them in a stylish container, people can care for their Cottonelle Clean Care toilet paper like never before with a modernized roll cover.

• Go with Color. Shower curtains and towels were made to carry colors and you can change your bathroom in minutes by coordinating and changing the colors here. Maxewell’s favorite lately? Deep brown towels and hand towels with a linen shower curtain.

To see more of Maxwell GillinghamRyan’s tips to transform your home, visit www.RespectTheRoll.com and learn how to get a Cottonelle brand designer roll cover.

Putting fresh flowers in your bathroom is a simple way to dress it up.

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller

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

3523 Washington Avenue Finleyville, PA 15332

Office 724.348.7470

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

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

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

Sponsored by Price

UNION TOWNSHIP Glenn Chris Van Voorhis Joanne Hoey Mary Kathryn Becker Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc. Harry Lytle et al.

Ronald Eley

Robert Van Voorhis Jr. and Jody Keffer Beth Henderson Mark and Mary Welsch Cher Moser Harry Lytle et al. and Judith Murray Brenda Brockbank Defazio

Mingo Church Road 4032 Finleyville Elrama Road 5 Pollock St. 37 Ramage Ave. 6 Morgan Lane 6606 Shady Ave.

$120,000 $63,000 $74,200 $39,000 $20,439 $190,000

MONONGAHELA Robert Collin MD Luella Ruth Southworth Reverse Mortgage Solutions Inc. Estate of Elizabeth Polaski Roger Wineland SIRVA Relocation Credit LLC

Helen Yuschak Carrie Miller Jason Jaki Nancy Harrison SIRVA Relocation Credit LLC Joshua and Nicole Mizerak

910 Lincoln St. 603 Mary St. 512 High St. 716 Sampson St. 518 Fourth St. 518 Fourth St.

$125,000 $79,000 $8,000 $117,000 $115,000 $115,000

NEW EAGLE Mary Lou Patterson Washington County Tax Claim Bureau

Shirley Mae Pager New Eagle Borough

160 First Ave. 449 Third Ave.

$13,000 $1,036 by sheriff's deed.

CARROLL TOWNSHIP Southern Ohio Coal Co. Donald Wargo Thomas Edwin Short Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Robert Smith

M3 Appalachia Gathering LLC Gina Jericho and Chris Cross Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Nellie Mammarella Brian Osborne and Ashley Zimmerman

144 Redds Mill Road 29 Surrey Drive 1205 Center Ave. 27 Spruce Alley 57 W. Monessen St.

$1,224,111 $199,000 $2,489 by sheriff's deed. $25,500 $93,000

ELIZABETH BOROUGH Jennifer Disman

Bayview Loan Servicing LLC

614 S. Second Ave.

$1,863 by sheriff's deed.

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Ellen Jeroski Matthias Schonlau Frank Zic Christine Abels Timothy Kugler

Richard and Sandra Dainty Chad and Helene Lino Jared Harper Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trustee Timothy Kugler and Robyn Yandrlic

303 Benchoff St. Birch Drive 818 Everglade Drive 2124 Lebanon Drive 3429 Long Hollow Road

Grace Penrod et al.

Audra Weiss Nadine Wallace Jason Mendicino et al.

Carla Murphy

Buena Vista Volunteer Fire Co. #1 Michael Holliday Daniel McCandless Garrett Lakits Wells Fargo Bank NA trustee

Steven Trumpe Estate of Elva Davenport Margaret Jackson Deutsche Bank Trust Co. Americas trustee Carolyn Beattie Ralph Stahley Jr. Maronda Homes Inc.

Federal National Mortgage Assn.

Fayette Resources Inc. Garret Walko Alex Kurta Robert and Marsha Killian Richard and Betsy Algeri Chad and Kherissa Withers

$115,000 $262,000 $145,000 $2,674 by sheriff's deed. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $6,903) Muse St. $6,500 137 Pineview Drive $159,000 1108 Schweitzer Road $8,000 225 Howell St. $97,000 4 Locust Grove Road $1,593 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $75,348) by sheriff's deed.

410 Monongahela Ave. $1,797 by sheriff's deed.

674 Simpson Howell Road $149,900 120 Thunderbird Drive $128,900 601 Burning Tree Court $123,900 304 Donna Drive $139,900 1903 Donner St. $129,500 329 Kennett Drive $243,700

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller FORWARD TOWNSHIP Frank Pascarella George Bucy CLAIRTON Estate of Sara Vitelli Residential Resources Inc. Alexander Claudiu Richard Petlock Estate of Pauline Branik Estate of John Papson Gregory Kuban Jr. Alan Sammartin et al.

SOUTH PARK Edward A & Mildred D Palmer Family Irrev Matthew Steele Roy Hostovich Jason Olexa Lloyd Ralph Hucke Jr. Jeffrey Duncan Jeffrey Ross Bank New York Mellon Trust Co. NA truste Elsie McCloud Gary Reese PLEASANT HILLS Estate of Joan Dosey William Slater Lawrence VanBibber JEFFERSON HILLS NVR Inc. NVR Inc. James Bahr Daniel Toboz Gill Hall Land Co. Dorothy McCall Maronda Homes Inc. Ned Karlovich Jr. Cynthia Patterson Gwyn Plaskon Southersby Development Corp.

Robert Johnson HSBC Bank USA NA trustee Phyllis Fazio NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP Dennis Givens Raymond Barley David Chipple Ronald Lindley et al.

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Address

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6015 Independence Drive 6039 Independence Drive 112 Camino Court 1505 Cherrywood Drive 4312 Harlin Drive 1234 Wall Ave. 18 Beagle Court 105 Pearson Road 1423 Council Place 120 Hollywood Drive Jackson Drive 608 Old Clairton Road 3016 Scenic Court 5024 Stilley Road

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HOME & GARDEN

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December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

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PETERS TOWNSHIP Brenda Defazio Matthew and Anna Hladek 163 Bittersweet Circle David Bowlin National Residential Nominee Services In 219 Doubletree Drive Danny Meadows GRSW Stewart Real Estate Trust 109 Golden Eagle Drive GRSW Stewart Real Estate Trust Jamie Hall 109 Golden Eagle Drive Irwin Alansky Robert and Harriet Dilly 268 Maplewood Drive McCloskey Land Development Co. Inc. Matthew and Stephanie Tomlinson 366 Pine Ridge Drive Richard Helbling Grant and Dana Bender 408 Scott Lane Virginia Jackson Eugene and Nancy Carole Milas 476 Sylvania Drive Tepco Inc. SVP Properties LLC 2917 Washington Road Rebecca Presto JBKT Real Estate Inc. 3694 Washington Road Laura Matarese David and Suzanne Palko 300 Waterside Drive Jessica Dotson Patrick and Tamara Kern 317 Buckingham Drive Jeffery Hruby Edward Josefoski 112 Cypress Court Frank Rizzo Jr. Stephen and Leslie Krueger 105 Dogwood Circle National Residential Nominee Services Inc. David and Jennifer Ploskina 219 Doubletree Drive Rebecca Lutz Eric and Jessica Drylie 105 Sandpiper Lane Kenneth Lash ZZ Holdings LLC 698 Venetia Road Williamson & Jefferson Inc. Anthony and Christine Belfiore 805 Ashwood Drive Fozco Scooter Properties LLP 1115 Hidden Valley Road Jacqueline S Gulbin Revocable Trust Robert and Maureen Stell 136 Johnston Road David Kammenzind Bank New York Mellon 2823 Locust Drive George Delestienne Melanie Schiller 296 McCombs Road Rebecca Elattrache Chris and Chanelle Bokelberg 212 Old Oak Road Richard Nalwasky Gene and Debra Sacco 229 Roscommon Place John Hoskins Prudential Relocation Inc. 218 Brookwood Drive Prudential Relocation Inc. Christopher and Stephanie Hallowich 218 Brookwood Drive Melissa Jones Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

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December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

HOME & GARDEN

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Safe Ways To Set Up Your Home For the Holidays (NAPSI) – Heeding a few hints from the experts at the Electrical Safety Foundation International can help you have a beautiful home for the holidays and a safer and happier new year: • If you are purchasing new decorations, shop only at reputable retailers that you trust.

• Make sure your decorations have been approved for safe use by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions that accompany your decorations.

• Carefully inspect each electrical decoration and extension cord before use; discard any damaged items. Cracked sockets, bare or frayed wires, and loose connections may cause a serious shock or fire.

• Never connect more than three strands of incandescent lights together to make a longer string.

• Consider getting LED lights, which use less power and burn cooler than traditional incandescents, allowing you to safely connect more sets.

• Avoid overloading electrical outlets, which can overheat and start a fire.

• Don’t pinch cords in windows or doorways or under heavy furniture.

• Keep cords out of walkways and high-traffic areas.

• If you get a live Christmas tree, check it for freshness. A fresh tree will stay green longer and is less of a fire hazard than a dry tree.

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• Avoid using candles when possible. Consider using battery-operated candles For safety’s sake, keep decorations, in place of traditional cangifts and other combustibles at dles. least three feet from heat sources • When decorating outside, or open flames. make sure all decorations and extension cords are marked for outdoor use.

• Always use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)-protected outlet outdoors.

• Exercise extreme caution when decorating near overhead power lines. Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder instead of metal. Keep yourself and your equipment at least 10 feet from power lines.

• Outdoor extension cords and lights should be kept clear of standing water and snow.

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Happy Birthday Jean Mondell Family Hosts a Surprise 100th Birthday Party

State Representative Rick Saccone presents Jean Mondell with a citation from the State House recognizing her 100 years.

Jean Mondell celebrates her 100th birthday with part of her extended family.

By Paul Chasko

Jean Mondell was the honored guest at a party celebrating her 100th birthday. The celebration took place at Finley Hall on the grounds of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish in Finleyville. It took some devious planning and execution on the part of her family, but Jean said the party was a complete surprise.

Mondell was born on November 5, 1911 and has been an area resident since the late 60s. She lives at home on Don Street in Union Township just outJean Mondell accepts a certificate of recognition side of Finleyville. Her husband Joe of her 100th birthday from Union Twp. Board Chairman Steve Parish. passed some time ago, but Mondell enjoys the company of her extended family, which includes 3 children, 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren. Jean has been very active in the community. She was an active member of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, helping with the bingo games and always contributing her time and talents to bake sales and other church activities. She was president of the Golden Agers for over 30 years and was instrumental in planning many of their trips. Her daughter, Mary Ann Book said her mom has kept active and worked hard all her life – probably the reason for her being with us today and celebrating her 100th birthday.

State Representative Rick Saccone attended the event and presented Jean with a citation from the State House acknowledging her 100 years. Steve Parish, Union Township Board Chairman, also presented Jean with a similar certificate of recognition from the Union Township Board of Directors. Also in attendance was Fr. John Gudewicz, who was Pastor of St. Francis Parish while Jean was so active in it. FR. Robert Boyle, the present Administrator of St. Francis Parish, was unable to attend due his recuperation from a recent injury.

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

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Anthony and Louisa Trello Celebrate 65 Years Anthony and Louisa (Lucci) Trello were married November 6, 1946 and are celebrating their 65-year anniversary. They have resided in South Park for the past 50 years and are the proud parents of 3 daughters, 5 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 1 great-greatgranddaughter.

Anthony grew up in Coraopolis. He is a World War II veteran with the 81st Wild Cat Division and served in the South Pacific. He retired after 30 years service from the US Postal Service. After retirement, Anthony helped in the family sausage business until the age of 84.

He is currently a member of the Golden Agers and the VFW Post 402 in Coraopolis. Louisa grew up in Homewood. She worked as a title clerk for 40 years for car dealerships.She was also secretary of the Democrat Party and served as the Judge of Elections for many years in South Park Township.

Anthony and Louisa enjoyed traveling to Italy and attending army reunions for many years. They celebrated their anniversary with their family. Congratulations, Anthony and Louisa on 65 wonderful years together.

New Eagle Woman and Niece Win in State-Wide Pageantry Competition Tiffany Laurel Forlai of New Eagle was crowned Over-All Grand Supreme in the America's Theme Pageant: Braves and Heroes, which was held in Harrisburg on September 18. Categories included beauty, outfit of choice, patriotic wear, and photogenic composite. Her niece, Candace Marie Schnore, received a large crown, banner, and toys in the 8-9 year-old beauty category.

Tiffany is a medical sales representative for Hearing Unlimited and a graduate of California University of Pennsylvania.

Candace is a third grader at Ringgold Elementary School North. She is the daughter of Stephanie Schnore of Washington and Chad Forlai of New Eagle.

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

St. Thomas A’ Becket Golf Outing Supports Building of New Church

By Colette Dell

On October 10, St. Thomas A’ Becket Church in Jefferson Hills had their Fifth Annual Golf-Outing at South Hills Country Club, with proceeds going to the church’s building fund.

Approximately, $40,000 was raised from this outing, and about $165,000 was raised from all five golf-outings, collectively.

The cost for each person who attended the event was $185, which included golfing, lunch, dinner, standup comedy entertainment, and the chance to win prizes. For those who The “new” St. Thomas A’ Becket Church on weren’t interested in playing golf, it was Gill Hall Road in Jefferson Hills will be com$40 per person to attend the dinner and pleted sometime in summer 2012. enjoy the entertainment. Ben Huber, cochairman of the event, said there was a nice turnout this year. “There were about 90 golfers, and about 70 came for the dinner,” Huber said.

Golfers received first, second, and third place prizes as well as “skill” prizes, and those who attended only the dinner had several chances to win sports memorabilia, a 16-inch TV, and vacation packages at an auction. Many St. Thomas A’ Becket Church Pastor of the prizes were donated, so the Rev. Bob (left) and Tom Kondrat take a church received “pure profit” when break from the busy golf outing. those things were auctioned off. Rev. Bob, the church’s pastor, said that the church has also had fundraisers such as raffles and donut sales, but this annual event has raised the most funds.

The building of the new church began around April 16 or this year, and the date of completion is expected to be summertime 2012. The parish is rebuilding for two reasons. The congregation is growing, and the current church building was only meant to be temporary. The new church will have a parish office, a daily mass chapel, and a social hall, in addition to a new sanctuary. The total cost of this project is expected to be about 7.5 million, and over 5 million has been raised as a result of all the church’s fundraisers.

According to Huber, the new church will be located closer to the main road, Gill Hall Road, and he believes that its new placement will attract more parishioners.

Those who attend the church have been very supportive of the golf-outing, but people from outside the church have helped as well. “We have fantastic support of non-parishioners,” Huber said. Corporate sponsors of the event and building fund have contributed throughout these past several years, and each received a certificate of appreciation from the church. “Even with tough economic times the parishioners have been real supportive,” Rev. Bob, said.

The next golf-outing is slated for Oct. 8, 2012, on Columbus Day. The church aims to hold the event on Columbus Day every year.

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Remember Loved Ones at CrossRoads Tree Decorating

By Charlotte Hopkins

Each year to start off the Christmas season, Pastor Floyd Hughes of CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills, hosts a Christmas tree decorating party that includes hanging decorations around the church, food, music, a movie, and activities for the children. This year, he is adding a twist to his celebration... a chance for people to pay tribute to someone special. All those who have someone that they would like to honor, be it a friend or family member that they lost, or a soldier who is away fighting the war, are invited to the annual party to hang an ornament on the tree as a tribute to them.

The service will be held on December 2 at 7:07 PM at the CrossRoads Community Church. As each person places their ornament on the tree, they will have the opportunity to say for whom they are hanging the ornament and how special that person is to them. That part of the Christmas decorating party will be recorded, and each person in attendance will receive a copy of the DVD.

How About a Big Dose of True Christmas Spirit?

The combined St. Francis of Assisi Choir and the Christmas brass ensemble of “Too Many Tubas” will present an Advent Program welcoming Christmas with music, prayer, and scriptural readings. Admission is free. Please come and join us for a celebration of Christmas. Everyone is welcome. We guarantee you’ll catch the Spirit. Sunday, December 11, 7 pm, Saint Francis of Assisi Church, Just North of Finleyville off Route 88.

Harmony Singers Present Holiday Concert The Harmony Singers of Pittsburgh will present a holiday concert under the direction of Cynthia G. Pratt on Friday, December 9, at 7:30 p.m. at the Brightwood Christian Church, 5044 West Library Avenue, Bethel Park.

The concert will feature favorite carols, Hanukkah songs, and holiday music.

Refreshments will be served following the concert. The concert is free and open to the public. A free-will offering to benefit the charitable and entertainment efforts of the Harmony Singers will be accepted. A basket raffle and holiday cookie sale will also take place.

The Harmony Singers are available to perform for civic, social, church, or business organizations. For information about the group or to reserve them for an event, call Judy Weddell at 412-833-6341 or visit www.harmonysingers.org.

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LOCAL WORSHIP

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

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

Holiday Cookie Sale at Baldwin Community United Methodist

December Events at Center Presbyterian Church in McMurray

December Events at Thomas Presbyterian Church

Baldwin Community United Methodist Women are having their annual cookie sale on Saturday, December 10 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The church is located at 5001 Baptist Road across from Caste Village Shopping Center. Proceeds benefit missions for women, children, and youth.

Center Presbyterian Church, located at 255 Center Church Road in McMurray, has worship services every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. with Communion served at the early service. We are located behind Rolling Hills Golf Course about two miles from Donaldson’s Crossroads.

Dates to remember for December: • Worship services are held every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., except on December 11 and 25 and January 1. There will be one 11 a.m. service on these three Sundays.

• The second Sunday of Advent is December 4. The Chancel Choir and Youth Bells will participate in the service.

• The third Sunday of Advent, December 11, will be the annual church Advent musical presentation with the Chancel Choir and Chamber Orchestra.

• The annual Advent Breakfast and Christmas Pageant will be held on the fourth Sunday of Advent, December 18, with the Chancel Choir, Chancel Bells, Chime Choir, and Children’s Choir participating.

• Christmas Eve candlelight services will be held at 7:30 p.m. with the Chancel Choir. A second candlelight service will be held at 11 p.m. with the Recorder Ensemble.

• One Christmas Day service will be held at 11 a.m.

• One New Year’s Day service will be held at 11 a.m.

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

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

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

• Rada Cutlery will be available for sale this fall to support Presbyterian Women’s mission projects.

• The Church Auction Committee is accepting items for their ongoing e-bay auctions.

• 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. Junior and senior high groups meet Sunday evenings.

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

Thomas Presbyterian Church will be hosting Breakfast with Mary and Joseph, December 3 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. The church is located at 1068 Linden Rd, Eighty Four. Join us as we celebrate Jesus’ birthday by eating breakfast with his parents, making a craft, playing games, and hearing about his birth, all before we sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus and eat cake in his honor. All ages are welcome. Come celebrate the true meaning of Christmas free of charge.

Jefferson United Methodist Church Bake Sale Jefferson United Methodist Church, 310 Gill Hall Rd., Jefferson Hills, will host its bake sale Saturday, December 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For sale will be cookie trays, candy, cupcakes, cakes, pies and apricot, nut, and poppyseed rolls. Mia Bella Candles and Popcorn Shirt Company will also have items available for purchase. Pre-order Christmas rolls; apricot rolls/$9 each; nut rolls/$9 each; and poppyseed rolls/$10 each. Deadline to order is Saturday, December 10, and put up date will be December 17. For more information, call 412-653-3222, option 3.

Windover Hills UMC Upcoming Events Sunday Worship – 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Sunday School – 9:45 a.m., for all ages Precious Emmanuel Production – Saturday, December 17 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 18 at 7 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship – 4:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church; 7 p.m. family service at WHUMC; and 11 p.m. Communion and choir service at WHUMC Christmas Day Worship – 11 a.m. family service with blessing of the gifts Bible Studies: Discipline Bible Study – Monday at 6:30 p.m.

Advent Bible Study – Thursday at 10 a.m.

Advent Bible Study – Sunday at 9:45 a.m.

Check us out on our website at www.windoverhills.org or call 412-653-6899 for more information.

Lumber River Quartet to Perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy Lumber River Quartet of Lumberton, NC, will perform at New Beginnings Church of God of Prophecy, 411 4th Avenue, New Eagle, on Friday, December 30 at 7 p.m. Crimson Stream, local southern gospel quartet, will open for them. For more information, call (724) 379-4304.

Riverview Baptist Church Upcoming Events Riverview Baptist Church hosts Shepherd’s Voice as they present “Rejoice! It’s Christmas” concert Friday, December 9 at 7 p.m. at 405 Main Street, New Eagle. Shepherd’s Voice will

share a variety of both sacred and secular Christmas songs of past and present. The excitement in the community builds as we anticipate the release of their first Christmas CD “Rejoice! It’s Christmas.” The cost of the CD is $13 and is a great gift idea. To pre-order your CD now, call Debbie Harn at 724-2589041 or Connie Watkins at 724-489-4380.

CDs will also be available on December 9 at the concert. Admission is free, but we will take a love offering to support the ongoing ministry of Shepherd’s Voice. Refreshments will be provided following the concert. This is an event you won’t want to miss. For more concert details, please call Saundra Bobnar at 724-2584978.

December Events at CrossRoads Community Church It's that time of the year when CrossRoads Community Church is collecting coats, blankets, shoes, and warm socks from individuals, churches, and organizations within the community to be distributed monthly to those in need in downtown Pittsburgh. You can drop the items off at CrossRoads or call us at 412384- 9278 to arrange a pick-up. You are also welcome to join us on the second Sunday of each month starting in November through March as we go downtown to distribute the clothing and hot coffee. Even if you are unable to donate or assist with distribution, please share this event with others. If you want more details, please check out our website at crossroadsofjeffersonhills.com.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at Grace Lutheran Church The community is invited to worship at Grace Lutheran Church, located at 6810 Hilldale Dr., South Park on Saturday, December 24 at 4:30 p.m. The presiding minister is Rev. Jude Urso, Pastor of Windover Hills United Methodist Church. Invite your family and friends; all are invited to come to the Lord's Table for Holy Communion.

• Christmas Day Worship at Grace-South Park Christmas is the most holy day of the year. Everyone is invited to join us at Grace Lutheran Church for worship at 10:45 a.m.

Rev. Emilie Theobald-Rowlands, Local Interim Pastor for Grace, will preside at the Holy Communion service. All are welcome to come to the Lord’s Table to receive the Sacrament.

Nativity Scene at Brightwood Christian Church If you want to discover the true meaning of Christmas, visit the Live Nativity Scene at Brightwood Christian Church in Bethel Park on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, December 21, 22, and 23, from 6-9 p.m.. The Nativity Scene, a tradition presented on the front lawn of the church, features costumed members of the congregation, a barn stage, and live animals in a fenced-in area. There will also be a hospitality table inside the church at Campbell Hall to welcome anyone who wants to come in from the cold to enjoy some hot coffee and cookies. Bring your children and grandchildren; they will love you for it.

Brightwood Christian Church is located at 5044 West Library Ave. and Center Street in Bethel Park. For more information, visit our website at www.brightwoodchurch.org.

December Events at The Chapel of Oneness The Chapel of Oneness is located at 345 Regis Ave., West Mifflin. See www.thechapelofoneness.com for other events.

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 No church on December 25.

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.

Crossroads Ministries Christmas Services Crossroads Ministries will be having their Christmas Eve services at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Christmas Day service will be at 10 a.m.

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

LOCAL WORSHIP

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

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

Nothing’s Too Hard for God, the Sunday sermon series taught at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. by Pastor Jack Stepp, continues Sunday, December 4 with “No Relationship is Too Broken.” A new topic will be taught the first Sunday of every month.

Norman Rockwell illustrations come to life

The Fine Arts department presents The Christmas Post Musical at 7 p.m., Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, December 9, 10, and 11.

Set in 1947, the story line of The Christmas Post is inspired by two of Rockwell’s Saturday Evening Post covers.

this Christmas as the Fine Arts department presents The Christmas Post Musical at 7 p.m., Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, December 9, 10, and 11. Set in 1947, the story line of The Christmas Post is inspired by two of Rockwell’s Saturday Evening Post covers. The Christmas Post takes us into a world of ordinary Americans who, just like people today, need to rediscover their faith in Jesus and be reminded of what Christmas is really all about.

Admission is free.

Compassion Connection is again collecting new toys for their annual Toy Treasures program. Toys may be dropped off in the lobby of South Hills Assembly or Hillcrest Christian Academy, as well as various locations around the area. A pseudo store will be set up December 17 where parents can “shop” for presents for their children at 10% of the item’s retail value. Although this is a departure from the usual toy give-aways done by many at Christmas, we believe this method affirms a parent’s dignity and worth. Cash contributions are also accepted and will be used to purchase toys. Call to register.

Care for Caregivers, an Alzheimer’s support group, is held from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, December 3 and the first Saturday of each month. All family members are welcome to attend.

Join us for Christmas Eve Service at 6 p.m., Saturday, December 24 and Christmas Day service at 10 a.m., Sunday, December 25.

An Afternoon with Mrs. Claus An afternoon with Mrs. Claus at St. Peter’s Church in Brentwood is being planned for Sunday, December 11 at 12:30 p.m. Parents and kids of all ages will enjoy this enchanting story telling hour by Mrs. Claus. Please register by calling the church at 412-884-5225.

December Events for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Our Redeemer Lutheran Church is located at 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray. For more information, call 724-941-7467.

Journey to Bethlehem - An Outdoor Living Nativity - Saturday, December 10, 6-8 p.m.

This outdoor interactive walk commemorates the walk Mary and Joseph made long ago.

The Longest Night - A Worship Service for those feeling blue at Christmas - Thursday, December 22, 7 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship - Saturday, December 24. Holy Communion is offered at all Christmas Eve services.

Joyful Noise Christmas Eve is at 2:30 p.m.

This service is for children on the autism spectrum and their families.

Children’s Christmas Eve is at 4:30 p.m.

Designed for young children and families, though all people are invited.

Family Worship Service is at 7 p.m.

Candlelight Worship is at 11 p.m.

On Sunday, December 25, we will worship at 11 a.m. with a service of lessons and carols.

Hamilton Presbyterian Church Offers Alternative Service and Time With the New Year If getting to church is among your New Year’s resolutions, Hamilton’s Alternative Service may be what keeps you inspired.

Starting on Sunday January 8, 2012 and each Sunday thereafter at 7 p.m., the Reverend Emily Miller will lead the Alternative Worship Service. This service will be informal and Communion will be offered more often than in traditional Presbyterian services. There will be music appropriate to the service each Sunday.

All are welcome to come to this alternative service, no matter what your beliefs, creed, or church affiliation. The church is in Bethel Park at the corner of Baptist and Hamilton roads.

You may phone 412-884-2722 or visit hamiltonpresbyterian.org with any questions.

Hamilton Choir Christmas Cantata On Sunday morning, December 18, the Chancel Choir and soloists of Hamilton Presbyterian Church in Bethel Park will present the Christmas cantata “Wings of Joy,” accompanied by an orchestra directed by Devon Smeal. The wonderful music program at Hamilton continues to be directed by Obbie and George McClintock. If you love the

Christmas story and the music of Christmas, join us. Worship service will begin at 11 a.m.

For questions, call 412-884-2722 or visit hamiltonpresbyterian.org.

Bethel Israel Center Synagogue December Events Beth Israel Center Synagogue is a Conservative Jewish congregation that was established over 52 years ago. We are located at the Pleasant Hills/Jefferson Hills border at 118 Gill Hall Road.

Upcoming Events: Friday Night Services at 7:30 p.m., December 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 Saturday Night Hadalah Service with Rabbi Amy Greenbaum, December 17 at 7:30 p.m. Following services there will be refreshments and an Ask the Rabbi roundtable discussion.

Adult Education Lecture Series are Sunday evening, December 4 at 7:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. The speaker will be Mitchell Kaplan, who will discuss his historic novel By Fire, By Water.

Men’s Club on Sunday morning December 11 at 9:30 a.m. Bagel breakfast and interesting program.

Cooking Class on December 11 at 1 p.m.

Bread making with Carol Lang. $10 per person.

Chanukah Luncheon on Sunday, December 18 at noon. A delicious deli lunch with potato pancakes, coleslaw, apple sauce, donuts and beverages will be served ($18 for adults).

For more information, contact 412-6552144 or visit www.bethisraelpgh.org.

Upcoming Events at Peters Creek Baptist Church Peters Creek Baptist Church Caring Team presents Jennifer Antkowiak of KDKA from 11 a.m. - noon on Friday, December 9. She will be sharing Take Care Tips, Caring for the Caregiver. Make your reservation by December 7 by calling 412-833-6111 or email k_emmerling@yahoo.com. Peters Creek Baptist Church is located at 6300 Library Road, South Park. For more information, visit www.peterscreekbaptist.com.

December Events for Hamilton Presbyterian Church December 11 - Worship at 11 a.m. with Children’s Christmas program December 11 - Follxowing worship service, Hamilton Holiday Craft Show, 12 to 4 p.m.

December 18 - Worship at 11 a.m. with Christmas Cantata December 24 - Worship services at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. (service with Communion) December 25 - Worship service at 11 a.m. with Christmas Hymn Sing January 1 - Worship at 11 a.m., Happy New Year January 8 - Return to Sunday 11 a.m. serv-

ices with the addition of an alternative service each Sunday at 7 p.m.

All are welcome. If you have any questions, visit hamiltonpresbyterian.org or call 412884-2722.

Upcoming Events at The First Presbyterian Church of Finleyville Too Many Tubas will be providing special Christmas music for the worship service on Sunday, December 18 at 10:30 a.m.

The Candlelight Christmas Eve Worship Service will be on December 24 at 7 p.m.

If you would like more information, call 724-348-5689 or visit our website at www.firstpresbyterian.us.

December Events at Wright's United Methodist Church We invite everyone to come and celebrate the Advent Season at Wright's United Methodist Church. On Saturday evenings, the Faith Café Worship Service starts at 6:30 p.m.

The doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the Faith Café. Our Sunday morning traditional worship begins at 9:30 a.m. A children's message and children's church are available during the worship hour. Sunday school for all ages begins at 10:45 a.m. During the season of Advent, there will be a prayer and healing service each Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. On Thursdays, the same service is offered at Edwards Chapel United Methodist Church on Route 136 beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Join us on December 4 at 7 p.m. for a Christmas Musical Extravaganza, featuring Dan Lutes. A free will offering will be taken for the benefit of the "Imagine No Malaria," our United Methodist campaign to eradicate malaria in Africa.

A Children's Christmas Breakfast will take place on Saturday, December 10 from 9:30-11 a.m. for children through 5th grade.

Reservations can be made by calling the church office at 724-348-5718.

On Sunday, December 11 at 5 p.m., there will be a covered dish dinner followed by our annual variety show that will begin at 6. Our Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship will be held at 7 p.m. on December 24. Communion will be served and as open to everyone. Please join us.

The congregation of Wright's United Methodist Church would love to have you join us for any or all the events. The church is located at 788 Venetia Road, Venetia. The phone number is 724-348-5718.

Email your “Church News” to: news@unionfinley.com

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ORTHOPAEDICS

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

Q: What is an Orthopaedic Surgeon?

A: An Orthopaedic Surgeon is a physician that diagnoses and treats a variety of musculoskeletal ailments.

This includes disorders of the bone, cartilage, tendons, muscles, nerves and joints. We are able to take care of these both medically and/or surgically.

Q: What are some of the most common problems seen by an orthopaedist?

A: Arthritis of the knees, hips, and shoulders. Sports injuries, such as meniscus (cartilage) and ligament tears.

Rotator cuff tears and carpal tunnel syndrom.

Vince Ripepi, DO Orthopedic Surgeon

Q: What are some new developments in orthopaedics?

A: All of the joint replacements we have now last longer and many can be done through less invasive techniques. We have injections that can possibly rebuild worn-out joint surfaces. We can perform carpal tunnel releases through tiny incisions, and we can fix rotator cuffs with poke hole incisions.

Advanced Surgical Hospital 100 Trich Drive, Suite 1, Washington, PA 15301 724-884-0710

S U R G I C E N T E R

APPLIANCES

Advanced Orthopaedics Office 1200 McKean Avenue, Suite 106, Charleroi, PA 15022 724-489-0120

REAL ESTATE

Q: Why buy an infrared heater?

A: An infrared heater uses heat very similar to the sun and its silent technology will not disturb the home environment in any way. Infrared technology also does not use as much energy as the leading space heater. In fact, you'll get more heat from an infrared heater than you will from traditional heating options. Infrared heat also does not create a stuffy feeling as most heaters do because no air is being pushed around. Heat is distributed evenly.

Q: How can I improve the value of our home?

A: First and foremost, every home is a place to live and

"Pothole" Highway Appliances

Q: How are infrared heaters different from other heaters?

A: Most heaters heat the ambient air of the room via convection, which heats the air and circulates the warmth out into the room. An infrared heater transfers most of the heat through direct infrared radiation to heat up objects being hit by the radiation in the room. Therefore, you save money because the heater is heating you and not the whole room. The infrared heat will then penetrate your skin, warm you from beneath your skin, and radiate outward. Not only will the heater warm you, but it will also heat anyone near you because a portion of the heat will reflect off your skin.

Q: How do most people use infrared heaters?

A: Electric infrared heaters produce heat very quickly, and the heat is easily directed to the space in a very precise beam. Because you're not heating all the air in the entire room, electric infrared heaters use less energy to heat up the room at a much faster speed. Infrared heaters are great for instant heat on those chilly mornings. Save your feet from the cold tile on the floor in the kitchen or bathroom with an infrared heater!

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relax away from the outside world and a place to build cherished family memories. But a home is also an investMary Lou Enrietto ment – perhaps the most important investment you will ever make. There are many small steps you can take over the years to increase its value, comfort, and marketability should the time come to sell it and move. The following are some cost-effective ways to treat your home like the investment it is meant to be: • Curb appeal: First impressions are important, and regular maintenance shows. A well-kept lawn, tidy landscaping, neatly painted exterior, and a nice front door will show pride of ownership and pride in the neighborhood.

• Fresh paint: One of the most cost-effective boosts to any home is a fresh coat of interior paint. If selling your home is on the agenda, choose neutral shades.

• Update kitchen: Dated counters, cabinets, and floors can be a real turn-off to buyers. Investing in granite, tile, and/or remodeled cabinetry will increase your own enjoyment as well as make a major difference in resale value.

• Update windows: Double-paned windows are a worthwhile investment. They will shut out noise, help regulate indoor temperature, and add value to your home • Update baths: Attractive bathrooms are always noticed, and some updates can cost as little as $100.

Call one of our experienced agents at Northwood Realty Services for more detailed information and helpful hints.

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

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

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

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

ORTHOPAEDICS Q: My husband has been told he needs knee surgery and keeps putting it off. What are the risks of delaying knee replacement surgery?

A:. The goal of knee replacement surgery is to restore function and to decrease pain.

If the x-rays indicate, and your husband is symptomatic enough, he is a candidate for knee replacement surgery.

Delaying treatment means he will endure further pain and Dr. Allan Tissenbaum suffering, and while there’s no real risk in this delay, the arthritis in his knee may worsen over time. This may cause him to limit his activity because he’s in pain, which may present problems for recovery if he chooses to have surgery at a later time.

The better his motor function is before surgery, the better his knee will bend after surgery. This in itself is an important part of the physical therapy needed postoperatively.

Also, because he is in pain, he may find himself limping. This can cause problems in the other knee and/or also in the lumbar region.

Joint replacement surgery is major surgery. However, if conservative treatments have not helped and he’s still experiencing pain, joint replacement will help him return to a healthy lifestyle much sooner.

Most patients spend two to four days in the hospital, must be very patient and compliant with postoperative care and therapy, and can expect a complete recovery in two to six months.

Dr. Allan Tissenbaum is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Washington Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. For more information, visit www.washortho.com.

To be featured in our Ask the Experts column, call 412-249-8177

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Automotive

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SENIOR GUIDE Solutions for Seniors Struggling in Today's Economy (NewsUSA) - Turmoil in the economy. Skyrocketing jobless numbers. Budget cuts putting families at risk. And senior services being cut. And cut. And cut.

Whether it is nutrition, housing, or medical needs, seniors and their caregivers are now looking for new ways to keep themselves clothed, fed and housed. In fact, President Obama's full-year Continuing Resolution for 2011 included a 45 percent national cutback of Senior Community Service Employment Program funding from the fiscal year 2010 budget.

With federal funding at the top of the chopping block, many of our elderly don't have access to even one hot meal a day. Meals on Wheels, a non-profit agency, had to establish a waiting list at many of its sites across the U.S. this year.

While the world of senior nutri-

tion programs faces trying fiscal times, there are services out there to help.

Mom's Meals (www.MomsMeals.com), created by a family to care for their aging grandmothers, delivers fresh-prepared, nutritionally balanced meals right to the doors of those who need them most. At only $5.99 per meal, far less than the cost of a restaurant meal, Mom's Meals are designed by a dietician and chef and contain the proper nourishment for seniors.

While transportation options are also being cut, a little digging will show that certain agencies are working for the benefit of seniors.

At the 2005 White House Conference on Aging, transportation was identified as the third most important priority of seniors, right under reauthorization of the Older Americans Act (No. 1) and

matters pertaining to long-term care, according to the National Center on Senior Transportation.

The NCST has made it their mission to increase transportation options for older adults and enhance their ability to live more independently within their communities throughout the U.S. More about the NCST can be found at www.seniortransportation.net.

With these federal cuts also comes added financial burden on seniors and their families. To help, AARP offers their Money Management Program, a daily service to help low-income older or disabled people who have difficulty budgeting, paying routine bills and keeping track of financial matters. More information about it can be found at www.aarpmmp.org.

Seniors for Safe Driving Upcoming Events Seniors for Safe Driving presents highway safety education programs for Seniors 55 years of age and older. The highway safety programs are certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The successful completion of the program makes seniors eligible for a 5% discount on their automobile insurance premiums, across the board, for a period of three years. The discount is mandated by Pennsylvania state law; if you have never participated in a senior driving program before, you must attend a two-day program (also mandated). To qualify for a one-day program, you must have taken a senior driving program in the past. No exceptions.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS: Upper St. Clair - Community and Recreation Department, December 1, 9 a.m –1 p.m.

West Mifflin - Arrowood Retirement/Southwestern, December 6, 1-5 p.m.

McKeesport - Carnegie Library of McKeesport, December 15, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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SENIORS

Representative Saccone Hosts Free Senior Expo

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Home for the Holidays Free Web Conference Offered The Home for the Holidays free web conference is designed to help family caregivers recognize the signs that a senior might need more help at home.

Going home for the holidays often leaves family members shocked at the declining health or independence of a loved one. Warning signs can help make decisions that will keep your senior safe long after you’ve returned home.

To learn more about these signs, register for the free Home for the Holidays web conference moderated by a Home Instead Senior Care representative, hosted by American Society on Aging. The hour-long web conference will be offered on Monday, December 5 at 8:00 p.m. Visit www.caregiverstress.com/familyeducation to participate in the family caregiver web conference.

Representative Rick Saccone and Yong Saccone pose with Carolyn Williams of Clairton, who was a happy winner of an autumn wreath.

Dave Karchesky rolls up his sleeve for a free flu shot, administered by Capt. Jason McGeary of Elizabeth EMS.

Jennifer Kelly (right), representing PA Attorney General Linda Kelly’s office, advises Phyllis Trout (left) with needed information.

Jack Chastel and John Friedrich of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services test and advise seniors on sight issues.

State Representative Rick Saccone of the 39th District hosted an excellent Free Senior Expo on October 27 from 10 am- 2 pm at the Elizabeth Borough Fire Company Social Hall in Elizabeth. Residents of Elizabeth Borough, Elizabeth Township, Forward Township, Finleyville Borough, Jefferson Hills, Clairton, Carroll Township, New Eagle, Nottingham Township, South Park Township, Union Township, and West Elizabeth Borough were invited to attend.

Representatives from local organizations, state and federal agencies, and businesses provided information on insurances, health care, nutrition, and exercise.

Elizabeth EMS provided free flu shots. Door prizes and raffles were drawn throughout the day to provide additional enjoyment for seniors who attended.

PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS

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SENIORS

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Community Action Southwest Receives $10,000 Grant for Seniors from Columbia Gas Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. recently awarded Community Action Southwest (CAS) with a $10,000 grant to benefit seniors in Greene County.

Funds will be utilized to support CAS senior services efforts in three areas: to help low-income seniors in crisis, to purchase new furnishings/equipment for the newly relocated Waynesburg Senior Center, and to support volunteers who provide home delivered meals to homebound seniors.

In the photo are: Stacy Stroman, Director of Senior Services Community Action Southwest; Darlene Bigler, CEO, Community Action Southwest; Dan Cote, General Manager of Operations, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc.; and Leo Smith, Operations Center Manager, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc.

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.

There will be only one luncheon this month on December 8. Sharon Hixenbaugh from Caring Mission Home Care will offer blood pressure.

Canonsburg Senior Center will serve a Christmas luncheon. Anyone who has not yet attended is more than welcome to come; the only requirement is to make a reservation by calling Erma Grego at 724-941-6956. All seniors are welcome! The Caring Mission Home Care will provide entertainment.

We would also like to thank the Girl Scout Troop that did the decorating for our Halloween party. The girls did a fantastic job. It put everyone in a very festive mood; the spiders and all kinds of Halloween decorations that really brightened our dining room. Thanks again, girls - job well done!

All our best wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

December birthdays: Irene Aldridge, Bill Higbee, Lois McCloskey, and Dorothy Townsend.

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SENIORS

Ghosts, Ghouls and Witches Occupy Mount Vernon Personal Care Home

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Blurred Vision?

TOLD YOU HAVE CATARACTS?

412-466-6800 www.pitteye2020.com

Dr. Thomas Findlan

Mt. Vernon Personal Care Home South Residents Betty Rudis and Ann Marie Wondrock dressed for the Spooky Spectacular to celebrate Halloween.

New resident Ann Himber poses with Charlie Chaplin (Toaa Corso).

BY JIM CALDWELL

Residents at Mount Vernon Personal Care Home in South Park, Betty Rudis and Ann Marie Wondrock, proved last month that no place is safe from ghosts, ghouls, and witches on Halloween. The two dressed in costume to participate in the annual “Spooky Spectacular” held there on October 27.

Nancy Meyer, marketing director Kim Narolesky with her children, Logan and Evan, for the Five Star senior living resicelebrate with Annette Schutte in the 10-gallon hat dence, put it succinctly. “This is (behind her mom, Margaret). their home now, and we try to do things like they did in their own homes before.” Just like many of them did in the neighborhoods where they resided before living here, they invited children ages 12 and under to dress in costumes and come “to their door” at Mount Vernon for candy and games. The 60 or so Halloween guests paraded through the halls and through the rows of seats and wheelchairs in the community rooms to receive goodies in their bags, be admired, and bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Residents in the community room await their guests.

They came mostly from the South Park and surrounding areas, and some were children of residents and employees.

The festivities lasted for two hours from 6 to 8 and concluded with a fun show in the dining room by Cindy the Ventriloquist. The personal care home is at near capacity with 95 residents.

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

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SPORTS

SJA and SKD Cross Country Teams Merge

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Mon Valley Midget Football League A Season to Remember

By Paul Chasko

At the Midget game, Frazier moves the ball against Ringgold behind some good blocking.

Angelina Battistone, Lauren Luppe, Evan Marnik, Ryan Vas, Kylene Vas, Matthew Battistone, members of the combined St. Joan of Arc and St. Katherine Drexel cross-country team, and SJA Coach Erin Vas.

The merger of St. Joan of Arc’s (SJA) and St. Katherine Drexel’s (SKD) cross-country teams opened the competition to students in both schools in grades 2-8. The team ran in nine meets this season (SKD hosted two meets at Millennium Park) and the South Hills Invitational, which was hosted by Our Lady of Grace. Each runner completed every race they were in and improved their times at each race. Ryan Vas was the only student from SJA that ran in the Diocesan Championship held at Slippery Rock University’s cross country course at Cooper Lake. He ran in the JV boy’s race, competing against 232 second- to sixth-grade boys, and he finished the 1.8 mi course in 15 min. and 3 seconds. Angelina Battistone, Lauren Luppe, and Kylene Vas proved to be very competitive second-grade cross country runners.

They completed each course running in the JV girl’s races against girls in second to sixth grades.

Cheerleaders support the Bears Mighty Mite Team.

Donora's Michaux Bags and Tags Thanksgiving Turkey This 16-pounder with a perfect fantail is #34 for Mark Michaux since 1993. As of 2002 (spring/fall combo)—20 in a row.

Bears Mighty Mites run against Ringgold.

The 2011 season of the Mon Valley Midget Football League started out on a bumpy road with some significant changes. Norwin dropped out of the league, and East Allegheny was admitted to fill the vacated slot. We saw the Donora Dragons morph into a team carrying the Ringgold name (with the blessing of the Ringgold School Board).

We also saw the breakup of the Monongahela Wildcats with some players moving to the new Ringgold team and others players finding slots with other neighboring teams. The Monongahela Wildcats were carried in the season standings (0-8-0) even though there was no team. The coaches working with the Ringgold team players saw this change as inevitable as the player pools from Donora and Monongahela were becoming too small to support teams in all four age divisions.

The Union Finley Bears remain the only team in the league not having a connection, at least by name, to a specific school district. The Bears have a mix of players from Union Township, Finleyville, and South Park Township.

Another change that seems natural to many folks would be for the Bears organization to become a South Park Team within the Mon Valley Midget Football League, releasing players residing in the Ringgold School District to the New Ringgold Team. The only concern with this move might be too many players on the Ringgold Teams, resulting in limited playing time for many kids. Parents, coaches, and league administrators would need to give this move some serious thought – if it’s even being considered

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

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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School News Middle School Receives $500 Grant Elizabeth Forward Middle School was recently awarded a $500 grant from Mon Valley Petroleum in partnership with Exxon Mobile. The grant will provide for new lab equipment and support materials in the new pre-biology curriculum.

EF Cheerleaders Score Grand Champion Award and Other Awards Elizabeth Forward’s cheerleaders on both the varsity and middle school squads scored first place at the Norwin Cheerleading Competition on Sunday, November 13. Middle school cheerleader Jaice Bright received a Stand Out Award. Varsity cheerleaders Kylie Tobasco, Taylie Biro, and Sam McDermott also received Stand Out Awards. The varsity squad received the highest score of school teams and the highest score of the entire day, rewarding them with the Grand Champion Award. The squad also received specialty awards of Best Tumbling and Best Dance. Kudos to all the EF Cheerleaders!

Elizabeth Forward Middle School Honors Veterans

The Elizabeth Forward Middle School Choir performed The Glory.

Iraq War Veteran SFC Justin Warden was the honorary guest speaker.

EF Students Attend District One Honors Choir Seven talented musicians from Elizabeth Forward High School attended District One Honors Choir Festival on November 4-5 at Seton Hill University. The festival concluded with a standing-room-only concert in Seton Hill’s new performing arts center in downtown Greensburg. The 128-member choir was selected through audition process in September.

Elizabeth Forward had a phenomenal showing with 7 students selected in auditions representing over 30 school districts. “I am so proud of my students’ success,” said Angie Berna Milliren, EF High School Choral Director. “This experience is one they will remember for years to come!”

Sergeant First Class Ryan Bahnemann Visits Greenock Primary School The Olweus Anti-Bullying Program allows students to meet local heroes, and Greenock Elementary School has invited a hero to visit the school each month. On November 1, Sergeant First Class Ryan Bahnemann visited Greenock Primary School, as SFC Bahnemann is the father of one of its first graders. He showed pictures, talked with the children about his tours in Afghanistan, and answered numerous questions.

Walter Levdansky places a red flower on the Table of Remembrance.

Albert Roll rises in respect at the singing of the National Anthem.

Elizabeth Forward Middle School held its Annual Veterans Day Assembly in conjunction with the Blaine Hill VFW Post 7632 and American Legion Post 553 on Friday, November 11. Guest speaker was Iraq War veteran SFC Justin Wardman. The event also included a flag presentation by Captain Julius Simon, USAFX, a Pow/Mia Ceremony, and the Veterans rise and salute at the Posting of Colors. presentation of a Table of Honor and Remembrance. Jennifer Meliton sang the National Anthem, and the Middle School Symphonic Band and Choir performed. The ceremony ended with a flag folding presentation, the playing of Taps

by Mark Maurer, and the Retreat of Colors. A highlight of the ceremony was a Powerpoint presentation by middle school students, featuring interviews of Veterans who spoke poignantly on their experiences, its impact on their lives, and the cost of the freedoms that we enjoy. PHOTOS BY ALICE HARRIS

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SCHOOL NEWS

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Bower Hill Read-a-Thon Raises More than $22,000 PETERS TOWNSHIP

SCHOOL NEWS Pleasant Valley Kids Tour Fire Safety House Peters Township Firemen were on hand at Pleasant Valley Elementary on October 27 - 28 to provide a lesson on fire safety for all students. The students toured the Fire Safety House, which details the potential risks that are in our homes in the living room, kitchen, and bedroom. The students helped to identify the fire risks, talked about how to avoid fire, and practiced exiting the house if a fire should occur. The visit was sponsored by the Pleasant Valley PTA.

PTHS Media Department Takes 2nd place in RMU Film Challenge A team of Peters Township High School media students has earned second place in the 24-Hour Film Challenge sponsored by Television and Video Teachers (TVT) in conjunction with Robert Morris University.

Students were given a genre, a prop, and a quote at 3 p.m. on Friday, October 21 and had to write, story board, shoot, and edit a short film incorporating all three within 24 hours. The PTHS team consisted of Rachel Berquist, Elise Bigley, Ryan Kruppa, Mandy Nerone, Kasey Norton, Christian Nossokoff, Troy Richert, Lindsay Spinabelli, Hannah Squeglia, and Jessica Szymanski. The students were under the direction of media teachers Robin Hodgin-Frick and Kevin Bastos.

Peter Township Students Earn National Merit Commendation Nine students from Peters Township High School have been named Commended Students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation in the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These students are David Bayani, Michael Counihan, Matthew Dixon, Ryan Duane, Andrew Irwin, Jennifer Mikec, Timothy Palacios, Danielle Steitz, and Jingxu Yang. These students are among 34,000 of the nation's highest scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT and will receive a Letter of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.

Students at Bower Hill Elementary read for a total of 257,068 minutes in their recent Read-a-Thon, raising more than $22,000 for the Bower Hill PTA and programs at the school. Overall, more than half of the Bower Hill students read for at least 400 minutes in the 12-day reading event.

The two top readers and the two top money collectors at each grade level were recognized on a special edition of the school’s morning announcements (B-TV) on Thursday, November 3. The winning students were:

Top Readers: Kindergarten: Sydney Shock (am) and Alaina Filoon (am) First grade: Benjamin Small and Steven Suchko Second grade: Aaron Sanders and David Bunton Third grade: Bridgette Shock and Matthew Beller Top Fundraisers: Kindergarten: Zoe Lipinski (am) and Ethan Rosenfelder (am) First grade: Nicholas Sell and Alexis Pirosko Second grade: Rachel Schreiber and Delaney Gosnell Third grade: Jack Van Zandt and Madeline West The classrooms that read for the most minutes and those who collected the most money received a reading nook bean bag from the PTA. All students who participated in the Read-a-Thon also received a medal for their participation; 100% of the Bower Hill students received a medal this year. The event was organized by the Bower Hill PTA and event chairpersons Maura Kelly and Ellen Garcia.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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Madonna Catholic Regional School Honor Roll

McMurray Elementary School Students Earn Calcu-Solve Honors Eight students from McMurray Elementary School took part in the Calcu-solve tournament at Duquesne University on November 18. Of the From McMurray Elementary School, (front) Garrett Langley, Julie 240 students who participated, Bocetti, Tyler Bove, teacher Alyson Boyer, (back) Wen Quan Zheng, McMurray's Wen Quan Zheng finished Pratiik Kaushik, Joe DeWitt, and Luke Mary participated in the Calcu-solve tournament. third overall. In addition, the team, which also included Pratiik Kaushik, Julie Bocetti, and Tyler Bove, finished third in the team competition. McMurray’s second team of Garrett Langley, Shruthi Shivkumar, Luke Mary, and Joe DeWitt finished sixth in the event. Teacher Alyson Boyer organized the teams.

GRADE 8: Highest Honors - Maria Loftis and Katie Sendek High Honors - Michael Hudak and Taylor Smydo GRADE 7: Honors - Matthew Agostoni, Isaac Petrosky, and Maggie Rider GRADE 6: Highest Honors - Jenna Albert, Olivia Behanna, Sophie Burkholder, Gabrielle Fronzaglio, Rachael Funtal, and Sarah Grandinette High Honors - Lena Galilei, Lindsey Koziel, Aislyn Lee, and Nathan Schollaert Honors - Louie Amati, Taylor DeLattre, Michelle Flament, and Hannah Williams

Madonna Catholic Regional

SCHOOL NEWS Mismatched clothes, the sillier the better, during Red Ribbon Week.

Mrs. Hawk and some of her first graders donned hats Crazy Hat Day.

Elaina Serrao, Morgan Motycki, and Rita Urko are shown with some of the numerous fall art projects that adorn the halls of MCRS. Red Ribbon Week was a hit at MCRS. Second graders Nathan Peters, Chloe Pordash, Gabby Serrao, and Aleah Siwula proudly display a giant red ribbon.

For All Saints Day, students chose a saint to learn about and dressed as that saint for Mass. Shown are Lindsey Koziel as St. Anne, Alyssa Guzik as St. Lucy, Sarah Grandinette as St. Joan of Arc, and Aislyn Lee as St. Bernadette.

Students in grades 5 and 6 had an awesome field trip to Round Hill Farm. Christina Ferrari is pictured feeding one of the horses.

Kindergarten students Ethin Fries and Makayla Harger are doing "Pumpin Math" with the help of 8th grader Maria Loftis.

The MCRS "When The Saints Go Marching In" float took 3rd place in the Monongahela Halloween Parade. Some of the "Saints" are shown ready to march!

Orange, black, and Halloween shirts replaced uniforms and Emma Lorenzo, Anthony Amati, Katie Brady-Bishop, Brenna LaMendola, and Sarah Glaneman are enjoyed the day.

Students in grades K & 1 enjoyed a great trip to the Monongahela Fire Station as part of October Fire Safety.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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REN Students Honor Veterans

Ringgold Class of 2012 Ranks Highest in District’s History on PSSAs The day offered one group performance after another!

By Paul Chasko

Congratulations go to Ringgold’s Class of 2012, which scored the highest on the PSSAs in the district’s history. Pictured are (standing) Martin Harris (English teacher), Derek McCormick, Nicole Fonner, Marina Sendek, Joshua Gudenburr, Keenan Delien, Rebecca Penn (English Teacher), and (kneeling) Rachel Roberts (English Teacher and Department Chair).

Ringgold High School Class of 2012 was ranked to have the highest Pennsylvania System of School Assessment scores in Ringgold history. The 2011 Pennsylvania State Target Proficiency levels were 72% for reading and 67% for math. The results showed that Ringgold surpassed these targets, with 81.6% of students scoring at the proficient or advanced levels in reading and 78.2% of students scoring at the proficient or advanced levels in math. Those are big leaps between the target numbers and the score numbers.

The following students in the class of 2012 scored advanced on both math and reading for the PSSAs: Robert Baloga, Kayla Bracken, Briana Burney, Keenan Delien, Garrett Devenney, Erik Dinardo, Jordan Drischler, Emily Eikey, Marissa Elliott, Zachary Fischer, Nicole Fonner, Chrisney Fronzaglio, Andrew Funtal, Bethany Gardner, Nicolas Greaves, Emily Grove, Kristen Guballa, Joshua Gudenburr, Jared Hancock, Emily Harger, Jennifer Hennel, Connor Kane, Eric Klebanski, Eli Macugoski, Samuel Martin, Christopher McConnell, Darryl McCorkle, Ashley Necciai, Roxanne Oglesby, Brittanny Parnell, Alexander Powell, Anthony Rich, Rebecca Robich, Shannon Robison, Angela Selby, Francis Seliga, Marina Sendek, Todd Sherred, William Sutyak, Jennifer Tolliver, Anthony Trocano, and Andrew Urko. Congratulations!

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

Students, teachers, and aids at the Ringgold Elementary School North (REN) worked hard for two weeks to put together a program honoring local veterans.

On Thursday, November 10, they played host to 87 local veterans from all five branches of the armed forces.

The students carefully fold the flag.

The veterans gathered in a “hospitality room” and were treated to light refreshments. After the entire REN student body had settled into their seats in the auditorium, the veterans were escorted to their seats by the color guard of the Mon Valley Shipmates. The program was basically a musical tribute to the veterans. The first porThe girls at Ringgold Elementary School North tion of the program had are ready to celebrate Veterans Day. the 5th and 4th grade choral groups singing an “Armed Forces Medley” and American Everyday. A formal welcome from Principal Mark Alberta was preceded by Mrs. Coleen Tolliver singing God Bless America.

The next part of the performance consisted of the children’s grade level performances. Each grade, including kindergarten, performed their musical tributes to the veterans with the other students waving their small American flags. After the musical performances, the veterans enjoyed a video presentation highlighting achievements of the various branches of the armed forces.

The program closed with a tribute to the fallen members of the armed forces with a moment of silence, the playing of taps by Veteran Lee Hemmings and the singing of God Bless America by everyone in the auditorium – a great afternoon for the veterans and students alike.

For additional photos on this event, please visit the photo gallery on our website at www.unionfinley.com.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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Changing of the Guard Current Ringgold School Board Meets for the Last Time

By Paul Chasko

The November 16 meeting of the Ringgold School District Board of Directors was the last for this board.

On December 5, the newly elected School Board Directors will be sworn in and take their seats. A reorganization meeting will take place, during which officers of the new board will be elected and old business will be addressed. The next regular meeting of the new board will be on December 21. The members of the new board are: Mariann L. Bulko Christopher D. Carroll William Ellis Gene Kennedy Lawrence L. Mauro Charles H. Smith Robert Smith William C. Stein ?

Because Ellis was elected for both an “at large” seat and a “district seat,” the

ninth board member will be by appointment and will likely be the new board’s first order of business.

Superintendent Gary Hamilton presented certificates of appreciation to Denise Kuhn and William Stein for their extended service on the Ringgold School Board—Kuhn for 20 years of service and Stein for 8 years of service.

The board adopted a resolution to file documentation with the Department of Community and Economic Development related to the incurring of debt to help finance a project for the Mon Valley Career and Technology Center. The resolution also authorized the execution and delivery of other necessary documents and the taking of other necessary actions. The project will address badly needed repairs and renovations to the MVCTC. A discussion ensued when a motion appeared on the agenda to award contracts for additions and alterations to Ringgold Elementary School North

(Gastonville). The work would include 6 additional permanent classrooms and some renovations to the existing building. The contracts to 4 companies were valued at a total of $1,916,500. Board member Chuck Smith questioned whether it would be a good move to approve a significant expenditure as a final action of the sitting board. He favored postponement to allow the new board to make the decision on December 5.

Representatives of the architects, HHSDR, pointed out that the delay would likely impact the scheduled completion next August, but nevertheless the board voted to table the contract awards passing the decision on to the new board.

A discussion once again over the

alleged failure of Turner Construction to prevent out-of-spec work on the RES (Ringgold Elementary School South) renovation project grew heated. Flooring in some classrooms needs to be repaired/redone by Mucci Construction. Unfortunately, floor tile and cabinetry were installed over the flooring and will now have to be removed at extra expense. Smith felt Turner should have caught this as part of their role in overseeing the work.

The discussion resulted in an executive session called by Stein to allow solicitor Berggren an opportunity to discuss litigation stemming from the problem. It was unclear whether or not Turner had reported the problem to the administration in a timely manner.

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

St. Joan of Arc St. Joan of Arc kindergartens had a great time showing off their costumes. Pictured from left to right are Adam Vas, Regis Manion, Gabrielle Petruska, Laura Kutschke, Caroline Quirin, Kate Ezar, Dani Mack, and Josh Kosmach.

This year’s St. Joan of Arc’s Cross Country Team was one of the youngest ever. Pictured from left to right are Angelina Battistone (2d), Lauren Luppe (2d), Evan Marnik (4th), Ryan Vas (4th), Kylene Vas (2d) and Matthew Battistone (4th).

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

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

Noah and Lisa Mitchell enjoy some family time at the Pastries with Parents event.

St. Joan of Arc School Enjoyed a Fantastic Fall St. Joan of Arc School had a busy fall with numerous events, fundraisers, and sports. Both cross country and volleyball teams finished their seasons. A Book Fair fundraiser brought in over $300 in books to the school library and classrooms. Halloween brought out all sorts of characters at the parade. Parents came to school early to enjoy the annual Pastries with Parents event, great for working parents. Students wore silly socks and dressed in red for Drug Awareness Week. Third graders learned a lot about the Revolutionary War period in Pennsylvania on their field trip to Oliver Miller’s Homestead. Students remembered to be thankful for what they have and to be generous to others. They built the Caring Wall with the items obtained from their food drive. First and second graders gave their time and possessions as they raised money at the annual Trading Post, where they sold their things to raise money for the St. Joseph Indian Orphanage.

The St. Joan of Arc band gained 17 new members this year. Pictured left to right are Robbie Mattews, Jenna Dinkfelt, Cassie Zandier, Arainna Yanovich, Clair Brdar, and Mrs. Racke.

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Food & Dining

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December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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Kids & Family Children’s Activities Planned During Holiday Season at Monongahela Area Library The Monongahela Area Library will host a variety of children’s programs and activities during the month of December, some related to the holiday while others are far from celebrating a holiday theme.

First up is a wax paper window ornament craft on Saturday, December 3 from 11 a.m. to noon, and a Victorian-style candy horn craft from 1 – 2 p.m. The programs are intended to tie-in with the community’s children’s holiday programs at the Presbyterian and Methodist churches in town that day.

On Wednesday, December 14 a reindeer craft activity is planned for all school aged children from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is requested for the activity by calling the library to ensure enough material is on hand.

Tuesday through Friday, on the week between the holidays the library will have children’s games available for play from 12 – 3 p.m. each day including Wii games.

A featured activity during game week will be a Captain Underpants inspired guessing game.

That same week on Tuesday evening, December 27 from 6:30 until 8 p.m. the library will host a Family Fun night with a snowman craft and snowman snack.

Children ages 3 – 10 and their parents are invited to attend.

The following night the American Girls club will gather at 5:30 p.m. for the holiday meeting.

For more info on any of the programs, please call the library at 724-258-5409.

YMCA Daycare Center Supports Cancer Awareness The providers of the infant/toddler room came up with the idea to teach the little ones of a special reason why we wear pink in October. The group made handprints on a huge pink ribbon, wore pink shirts, and made magnetic breast cancer ribbons to take The Tiny Tots at the Mon Valley YMCA, Carroll Township, helped home. Everyone at celebrate and support breast cancer research on October 26. the YMCA wore pink that day, and the picture of the children and providers now hangs in the hallway. Children participating in the event included Steven Zelinsky, Sharley Walters, Michael Boardnax, Jessinia Hughes, Brody Shanefelter, Cooper Murry, and Morgan Ellsworth. The providers of the program were Kathy Foster, Carol Foor, and Heather Seefried.

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

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Entertainment PUMP UP

the

Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot!

VOLUME!

by Mandy Withers-Kozlowski

DECEMBER

16 - Christmas Celebration –“Reminiscing the Holiday Inn Days” Karaoke/DJ 8:30PM-1:30AM 17 - Terrance Vaughn- One Man Band 31 - New Years Eve Celebration w/ DJ Dr. Johny Fever 9:30PM-1:30AM

Altman’s Tavern 412-653-6440 611 Old Clairton Rd, Pleasant Hills 2 - Occasional Reign 3 - Rick Purcell 10 - Billy Price 15 - Karaoke 23 - Todd Jones 29 - TJ Jazz Reunion 31 - New Years Eve Party

Eck’s Restaurant & Lounge 724-310-3570 1574 Fourth Street, Monongahela 2 - White Rose Karaoke 3 - DJ Bob 8 - White Rose Karaoke 9 - DJ Bob 10 - DJ Bob 16 - White Rose Karaoke 17 - DJ Bob 23 - White Rose Karaoke 30 - DJ Bob 31 - New Years Eve Party - No Cover Free Buffet - DJ Bob

Baltimore House 412-653-9332 176 Curry Hollow Rd, Pleasant Hills 3 - Smooth Groove 10 - Refuge 17 - Uptown Rhythm and Brass 31 - New Years Eve Party w/ Night Life Tuesdays - Karaoke 9-1 Thursdays - DJ Ed Lover 10-2 Fridays - DJ Ed Lover/Karaoke Contest 10-2

Elrama Tavern 412-384-3630 1520 Rt 837, Elrama 3 - JD Taylor 10 - Mark Cyler & The Lost Coins 17 - Scott Spahr 22 - Christmas Party w/ Todd Jones 31 - New Years Eve Giveaway Bash

Bootsie’s Bar 412-672-1120 699 O’Neil Blvd, McKeesport 3 - Steeltown 10 - Weathered Soul 17 - Big Tony & Co. 24 - Closed at 7PM 31 - New Years Eve Bash w/ DJ Chris

Freddie’s II

Denny’s Roadhouse 724-258-6232 3431 Rt. 136, Finleyville (corner of Ginger Hill Rd & Rt. 136) Mondays - Saturdays - Exotic/Lingerie Barmaids 6 -2

DoubleTree by Hilton PittsburghMeadowlands 724-222-6200 340 RaceTrack Road, Washington 2- Sputzy, formerly of Modern Man 8:30PM-12:30AM 3 - DJ Lance Freeman 9:30PM-1:30AM 9 - Jack Pettit Band 8:30PM-12:30AM 10 - DJ Dr. Johny Fever 9:30PM-1:30AM

412-833-1830 2789 South Park Road, Bethel Park Saturdays - Live Entertainment 9pm midnight 3 - Ali/Barranti Duo 10 - Rusty Biker 17 - The HenHouse Roosters 20 - Christmas Party with DJ Paul 31 - New Year's Eve Celebration - open jukebox, champagne toast, hats & noisemakers Wednesdays - Texas Hold'em Tournament 7:30PM Thursdays - Tableside Magician 6:30 8:30PM

Hey Andy Sportsbar and Lounge

Rinky Dinks Roadhouse

Terrace Gardens

724-258-4755 1221 W Main St, Monongahela 1 - 50’s Night Sock Hop 2 - Gil Snyder Combo 3 - Lindsay Neal and Kickback 9 - The Jades 10 - The Nancy McKeen Bluz Machine 16 - Refuge 17 - A-Z DJ/Karaoke 23 - Matt Tichon 24 - Closed 30 - DJ Barto 31 - Steeltown Thursdays - DJ Barto

724-228-1059 339 Amity Ridge Road, Amity 2 - The WeedRags 10 - Ruff Creek 17 - Davisson Brothers Band 31 - New Years Eve Party w/Ruff Creek Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ The WeedRags

412-233-2626 1180 Woodland Ave, Clairton 3 - EZ Action 9- Chuck Corby 16 - Todd Jones 31 - New Years Eve Regular Joes Wednesdays - Karaoke with Eddie

Hot House Tap and Grille 724-258-4212 807 Dry Run Road, Monongahela Entertainment 9:00PM - 1:30AM 31 - New Years Eve Party w/ DJ/Karaoke Wednesdays - Open Stage all musicians welcome Thursdays - Karaoke/DJ Fridays - Karaoke/DJ Saturdays - Karaoke/DJ

The Hunting Lodge 724-348-7984 3529 Washington Ave, Finleyville Fridays - Free Juke Box 8-close Saturdays - Free Juke Box 8-close

Jackson’s Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe 724-743-5005 1000 Corporate Drive, Canonsburg 9 - John Galt Theory

The Kickstand Bar & Restaurant 412-384-3080 1100 Hayden Blvd 3 - The Jades 10 - Old Shoes 17 - Karaoke 31 - New Years Eve Party w/ DJ

Pit Stop Bar and Grille 412 -384 -7487 1473 Rt. 837, Elrama Saturdays - Free Juke Box 9-11PM

River House Café 724-565-5700 506 McKean Ave., Charleroi Entertainment - 9:30PM - 1:30AM 3 - Scotty Spahr 10 - FastBack 17 - Black Dog Hollow 23 - WeedRags

Rockin' Willies Roadhouse 724-745-8844 2476 Washington Road (Rt. 19 South), 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 - Bill Ali 9 - Bucky 16 - Fynal Tyme II 31 - New Years Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ Bill Couch Wednesdays - Karaoke w/ Brett Saturdays - Karaoke w/ Rickieoke or Matt Sundays - Karaoke w/ Rickieoke or Matt

Stage I 412-233-3636 428 N State St, Clairton Hard Rock Fridays

Sylvester & Tweeties 412-384-0800 8800 Roberts Hollow Rd Rt 51 S, Elizabeth 10 - Todd Jones 9:30-1:00 31 - New Years Eve Party w/ Sapphire and Dinner Buffet

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

Three Streets Grille 724-348-8030 3540 Washington Ave, Finleyville 10 - Dallas Marks 17 - Lindsay Neal and Kickback 31 - New Years Eve Party w/ DJ

Valley Hotel 412-233-9800 1004 New England Hollow Rd Intersection of 837/Coal Valley Rd, Jefferson Boro 1 - Gerald McGrew 3 - Jimmy Adler 10 - Chuck Corby 15 - Gerald McGrew 17 - Valentino Vasquez Fridays - Open Stage Night - all musicians welcome

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

Classifieds

unionfinley.com ———————————————————————————————————————— 67

ty Par e t a Priv Ads

E FRE

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

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

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

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

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Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 1-888-444-8308. ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, Truck or Boat to HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND, Free 3 Day Vacation.Tax Deductible, Free Towing,All Paperwork Taken Care of. 1-888-475-1825 ___________________________________________________________ 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 Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR - Free Next Day Pick-Up. Help Disabled Kids. Best Tax Deduction.

Free Vacation Gift. Call Special Kids Fund 7 days/week 1-866-448-3865. ___________________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR – HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing. Call 7 days/week. Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CANCER FUND of AMERICA to help SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS.Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. Call 7 Days 1800-835-9372 ___________________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR to CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND OF AMERICA, and help end CHILDHOOD CANCER. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. 7 Days 1-800-469-8593 ___________________________________________________________ Donate Your Car! Civilian Veterans & Soldiers Help Support Our U.S. Military Troops 100% Volunteer Free same Day Towing. Tax Deductible. Call and Donate Today! 1800-471-0538 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- BUSINESS TO BUSINESS ------------

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Reach 30,000 potential customers in the South Hills and Mon Valley communities! Advertise your business in the Union-Finley Messenger. Call for more information at___________________________________________________________ 412-249-8177. Or e-mail to news@ unionfinley.com.

FREE WEEK OF ADVERTISING... place your ad in over 1 Million households in free community papers in the Western Counties of Pennsylvania for 5 Weeks and get the 6th Week FREE! Visit www.macnetonline.com/ MICRONETS for more details or call 800-450-7227. ___________________________________________________________ REACH CUSTOMERS IN THE MID-ATLANTIC STATES. Place your ad in over 5.2 million households in free community papers for 5 weeks and get the 6th Week FREE. Visit www.macnetonline.com for more details or call 800-450-7227. ___________________________________________________________

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-------------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES -----------Finleyville - Animal Feed Business for Sale. Call for information 412-551-0664. ___________________________________________________________ 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 ___________________________________________________________ NOW HIRING: Employees needed to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 Dept. MAC-6811 ___________________________________________________________

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

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---------------- EMPLOYMENT -------------If you have a passion for cooking, we are looking for experienced line prep cook.

Available day or evening, PT/FT. Email resume to: riverhousecafe@yahoo.com or call 724-565-5700 and ask for Trey.

Experienced Hair Dresser Needed FULL or PART Time • 724-344-4656 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. ___________________________________________________________ Home Business Opportunity - Seeking Brand Partners to distribute and promote Vemma, the most complete liquid nutrition program found anywhere. Earn income while promoting a healthy lifestyle! Set your own hours and work from home. Free marketing website.Learn more by visiting our website www.BodyFuel.Vemma.com.or call 412-760-2291. ___________________________________________________________ Belle Vernon - Salesperson - 422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a highly motivated sales consultant who wants a career and not a job.The position is full time and no traveling required. Income is based on sales consultant abilities. If interested please call 724-929-5040 and fax resumes to 724-929-6855. ___________________________________________________________ Full-time position as a relationship developer, telesales professional.

Responsible for calling prospects on a regular basis to gain appointments with prospects and follow-up on needs and expectations. Strong clerical skills utilizing MS Office. Canonsburg location. Send resume to 724-916-4777 or jobs@staffmastersinc.com. ___________________________________________________________ Babysitter/Nanny for Summer – let your kids sleep and play in the neighborhood.

American Red Cross certified experienced,reasonable,references.Call Kelsey at 724348-6528.

SLAGLE ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION, INC. NEEDS... Experienced Roofers to join our team.FULL-TIME.Must have valid driver's license.STOP IN or CALL 724-258-6901. 208 W. Main Street, Monongahela.

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

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

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

422 Homes in Belle Vernon is looking for a Salesperson. They must have experience in the sales field and is willing to work 10 hour days.If you are interested please send resume to pauljunior@422 homes.com. If you have any questions please call 724-929-5040. ___________________________________________________________ Cooks and drivers wanted! Pitstop Bar and Pizza Shop. 412-384-7487. ___________________________________________________________

unionfinley.com

———————————————————————————————————————— 68 Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with children.Part time or full time positions available.Please call Tammy at 724-3486565 ___________________________________________________________ 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. ___________________________________________________________ 2011 FEDERAL POSTAL POSITIONS - NOW HIRING! $13.00-$36.50+/hr., Full Benefits/Paid Training. No Experience/Call Today! 1-866-477-4953 Ext. 141 ___________________________________________________________ EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS WANTED FOR OUR VAN DIVISION: Heavy Run Between Wisconsin to McConnellsburg, PA, Flex home time. 99% No-Touch Freight.

Paid Vacation, 401K Savings Plan/Vision/Dental/ Disability/Health Ins. Offered. Class A CDL, 2 yrs OTR exp. good MVR/References recq. Call Ruth/Mike TTI, Inc. 1-800-5582664. ___________________________________________________________ DRIVERS EXPERIENCED OTR DRIVERS VAN DIVISION: Runs 48 states, heavy from WI to Philadelphia-Baltimore-MD area. Flex home time. 99% No-Touch.Top Pay! Vacation/ 401K/ Vision/ Dental/ Disability/ Health.Require Class A CDL,2 yrs OTR exp. good MVR, references. Call Ruth/Mike TTI, Inc. 1-800-558-2664 ___________________________________________________________ EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED AVON AGENTS WANTED! Start Your Business today.

Call NOW for Holiday Cash! 1-800-206-0799. ___________________________________________________________ LIFE & HEALTH AGENTS TO SELL COMPREHENSIVE SENIOR PORTFOLIO. Outstanding Commission Schedule, Ongoing Lead Program. Commission Advances.

Immediate Vesting. CONTACT Chris@ManorWest Marketing.com 717-392-6888 HELP WANTED! Experienced P/T Cook AND P/T Waitress The Hunting Lodge • 724-348-7984 MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily.Get paid to shop pt/ft.Call now 1-888750-0193. ___________________________________________________________ PROCESS Mail! Pay Weekly! FREE Supplies! Bonuses! Genuine! Helping Homeworkers since 1992! Call 1-888-302-1522. www.howtowork-fromhome.com ___________________________________________________________ Out of High School? 18-24 guys and girls needed.Travel American Hot spots. Paid training, travel and lodging. 877-646.5050 ___________________________________________________________

CLASSIFIEDS

FREE Groceries! Receive $2000 in Grocery Savings! Grocery Stimulus Program provides $2000 savings to participants of shopping survey. ALL MAJOR AND LOCAL supermarkets! Call 877-301-1682 ___________________________________________________________ Process mail! Pay weekly! Free supplies! Bonuses! Genuine opportunity! Start immediately! Helping Homeworkers since 1992. 1-888-302-1516. www.howtoworkfromhome.com

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

$384 DAILY* AT HOME COMPUTER WORK - LIMITED POSITIONS. Start making money today by simply entering data for our company, No Experience Needed, training provided. www.AtHomeComputerWork.com.

Seeking career-oriented professional with current PA insurance licenses for full time position. Property & Casualty license a must; willing to train for Life/Health license. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume’ to 724-258-5880.

-------------- FINANCIAL / INSURANCE -------------

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.

EARN EXTRA CASH WEEKLY!! Work from home as an envelope stuffer. No experience required. Call 1-855-220-1722 or go to www.earncashweeklynow.com ___________________________________________________________ $1,000 WEEKLY* PAID IN ADVANCE! MAILING OUR BROCHURES From Home.

100% Legit Income is guaranteed! No Selling! Free Postage! No Experience Needed, Full guidance & Support. www.MailingBrochures Income.com ___________________________________________________________ $1000 WEEKLY* PAID IN ADVANCE!!! WE NEED HOME WORKERS TO MAIL OUR COMPANY BROCHURES. www.HelpMailingBrochures.com ***WORK AT HOME*** MAKE $500 / $5,000 MONTHLY - FREE Training & Support!!! www.WorkFromHomeConnection.com ___________________________________________________________ $1500 WEEKLY* AT HOME COMPUTER WORK Make Money By Simply Entering Data For Our Company. No Experience Needed! www.AtHomeComputerWork.com ***HOMEWORKERS GET PAID DAILY*** NOW ACCEPTING: www.CashTakingSurveys.com ___________________________________________________________

South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842. ___________________________________________________________ CD Alternative - Current Annuity rates from 3%- 5.05% first year guaranteed depending on the amount of deposit and length of contract. Call 724-731-0071. ___________________________________________________________ Buried in Credit Card Debt? Over $10,000? We can get you out of debt quickly and save you thousands of dollars! Call CREDIT CARD RELIEF for your free consultation 1866-767-5932 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.

Business Owners? Self-Employed? Tired of hassle with banks to secure working capital? We will show you how to be your own bank. 1-855-922-2453 tchelf@eaglefinancial.biz www.findoutmorenow.com (passcode - TC25) ___________________________________________________________ AVOID BANKRUPTCY! Settle debts for less. Call if more than $15,000 of credit card debt.

(800) 699-9740 ___________________________________________________________ CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY ELIMINATE IT! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys.Need a Minimum $5000 in debt to qualify.Call 1-866-652-7630 for___________________________________________________________ help! $$CASH NOW FOR FUTURE PAYMENTS! We will buy your Annuity, Structured Settlement, Royalties or Mortgage Note. Call R&P Capital 1-800-338-5815 ___________________________________________________________

--------- HEALTH / MEDICAL / FITNESS ----------Feel the difference with Nature’s Sunshine Products. Healthy Opportunities! www.mynsp.com/jrobbins or call: 412-708-7329 ___________________________________________________________ Ensure 'Plus', choc., strawberry and vanilla. $25.00 a case. Call 724-3484676. ___________________________________________________________ ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-440-8352 ___________________________________________________________ DIABETIC TEST STRIPS WANTED: Cash for unopened, unexpired boxes of Diabetic Test Strips. All Brands Considered. Prepaid U.S. Mailing label provided. Trustworthy buyer.

God Bless. Call Caleb 1-800-869-1795 or 574-286-6181 ___________________________________________________________ ****TAKE VIAGRA/CIALIS? SAVE $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only $99! Call now,Get 4/BONUS Pills FREE! Your Satisfaction or Money Refunded! 1-888796-8870 ___________________________________________________________

-------------- ITEMS FOR SALE -----------Penguins Tickets - Penguins vs.Flyers, last game of the year.Open for offers,text to___________________________________________________________ 412-780-5998.

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

Call 724-258-9115, ask for Karen. ___________________________________________________________ Stag Rotary Treadle Sewing Machine - overhauled, excellent condition. $35. Call 412-233-3152. ___________________________________________________________ 7'___________________________________________________________ Balsam Pine Tree - 923 tips w/650 clear lights. $125 cash only. 412-997-3869 Bed Frame - Full size with (4) Legs and Rug Rollers. New in box. $40.00. For more information, call 724-684-5531. ___________________________________________________________ Cub Cadet – 12–14 HP - 40 Inch Cut comes with snow blower attachment and garden discs. $800 or BO. Call 724-322-2458 for more information. ___________________________________________________________ CB Ham Radio – realistic, with all cords and mic. $25 Pro 20120 programmable 40 channels.

Call 724-322-2458 for more information. ___________________________________________________________ 1989 Classic Cadillac – Fleetwood, 19k miles. Garage kept. Never used in wintermint condition.Silver.Asking for $9000.Taking offers.For more information,call 724322-2458. ___________________________________________________________ Oak Country Furniture - Oak Country Dresser (6 drawers), $160.00. Oak Country Chest Drawers (6 drawers), $100.00. Like new. Buy separate or together. For more information, call 724-322-2458. ___________________________________________________________

Leather Jacket - Misses, size 10, black, zip out lining, dressy style, excellent condition. $25. Call 724-929-3891. ___________________________________________________________ Fine China by Treasure House - Fleetwood 43 pieces, service for 8, plus extras, dishes are off white,edged with silver band,small pink roses and green leaves in center.___________________________________________________________ Must see to appreciate quality and condition. $150.00 Call 724-929-3891.

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

Call 724-929-3891. ___________________________________________________________ Cemetery lots. Lafayette Memorial Park.Garden of Serenity.4 lots at $5,400.Selling for $2,400. 724-938-7307.

SURREY FOR SALE! 3-Seated, Horse Drawn: $1,500. • Horse Back Riding Lessons. • Riding Horses for Sale! www.logcabinstables.com. 724787-4817 FREE! – Upright Piano. Union Township.You haul. For details, call 724-348-7557. ___________________________________________________________ BEDS!!! Pillow Tops, Plush, Memory Foam. 10 YEAR WARRANTIES!!! New, still in factory plastic.FULL $179.QUEEN $199; KING $245 (Twins Available) IMMEDIATE DELIVERY!!!

CALL (412) 494-7351 ___________________________________________________________ CLARINET, FLUTE, VIOLIN, Trumpet, Trombone, Amplifier, Fender Guitar $70. ea.

Cello,Upright Bass,Saxophone,French Horn,Drums $190.ea.Tuba,Baritone,Others.

1-516-377-7907. ___________________________________________________________ MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA VISCO MATTRESSESWHOLESALE! T$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY 25 YEAR WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP 1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR. COM ___________________________________________________________

----------- ITEMS WANTED -------Wanted to buy - large roll top desk. Call 724-348-0506. ___________________________________________________________ Canning Jars Wanted. Reasonable. 412-403-2753. ___________________________________________________________ Wanted to Buy. Silver Coins. 1964 or older. Will pay 20-times face value! Call Dave at___________________________________________________________ 724-941-5420.

Wanted - Treadmill. Good running condition. Incline is a must! Reasonable. 724258-8324. ___________________________________________________________ Misc. Items Wanted - 30x30x15 Greenhouse kit and supplies to build greenhouse; Small camping trailer - reasonable; Water storage tank (5,000 or 3,000 Gal tank); Used water storage tank; Old farm fencing. 724-344-8784. ___________________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622.

WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me. Jim Gillespie at 412979-7050 or home 724-348-6203.

JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T.Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ___________________________________________________________ WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me.Jim Gillespie at 412-979-7050 or home 724348-6203. ___________________________________________________________ WANTED YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS Unexpired Any Kind/Brand. Up to $22.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Hablamos espanol. 1-800-267-9895 / www.SellDiabeticstrips.com ___________________________________________________________ WANTED DIABETES TEST STRIPS Any kind/brand. Unexpired up to $22.00.

Shipping Paid Hablamos espanol 1-800-266-0702 www.selldiabeticstrips.com ___________________________________________________________ FAST PAYMENT for sealed, unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS-up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. Call today & ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com ___________________________________________________________ YEARBOOKS "Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks 1900-1988. yearbookusa@yahoo.com or 972-768-1338." ___________________________________________________________

----------- MISCELLANEOUS --------Bus Tours - Niagara Falls, no passport needed, New York City Express, December 2 - 4, 2011, $449 per person, Rockettes Xmas Spectacular included. Call 724-2928043 or 412-513-4020 for details. ___________________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up.Call:724-8257233. ___________________________________________________________ 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. 1888-691-3801 ___________________________________________________________ ACR METAL ROOFING - GO GREEN - tax credits agricultural, commercial, residential. Building packages, top quality, low cost, FREE literature. acrmetal.com, 800-3251247 ___________________________________________________________

December 2011 ———————————————————————————————————————— 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..

Christmas Trees Wholesale 5-10ft. Douglas Fir and Scotch Pine. Also, Landscaping evergreens.Central Pa.D & H Tree Farm,dandhtreefarm.com (814) 3455055 mrtree@gotmc.net ___________________________________________________________ PRICES REDUCED!!! EXOTIC FARM ANIMALS "MINIATURES" Donkeys, Horses!!!!

ALSO, SCOTTISH HIGHLAND CATTLE View complete list www.WindingCreeksFarm.biz Call 717-926-8806 ___________________________________________________________ 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 ___________________________________________________________ QUALITY WATERPROOFING! Large Local Company. Lifetime Transferable Warranty.

BBB Award Winner.Attorney General Approved 377. 1-800-343-2357 ___________________________________________________________ VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg!! 40 Pills 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. Only $2.70/pill. Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-888-4186450 ___________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 5 only 25x30, 30x38, 40x60, 45x74, 50x102. Must Move Now! Selling for Balance Owed! Free Delivery! 1-800-211-9593 x 62 ___________________________________________________________ DISH Network More Choices, More savings! FREE HD FOR LIFE. Packages starting at $24.99 for 12 months w/60 channels 1-888-444-7854 Restrictions apply. Call for details ___________________________________________________________ FREE GAS! Receive $300 Gasoline Savings! Gasoline Stimulus Program provides $300 gas savings to participants of driving survey.Local Stations - Major Brands ! Call now 877-898-9027 ___________________________________________________________ Dish Network lowest nationwide price $19.99/MO. FREE HBO/Cinemax/Starz FREE Blockbuster FREE HD-DVR and install. Next day install 1-800-306-5814 ___________________________________________________________ ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home.*Medical,*Business,*Criminal Justice.Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-4943586 www.CenturaOnline.com ___________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 4 only 25x36, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Sell For Balance Owed!

Free Delivery! 1-800-411-5869 x272 ___________________________________________________________ $$OLD GUITARS WANTED$$ Gibson,Fender,Martin,Gretsch.1920's to 1980's.Top Dollar paid.Toll Free: 1-866-433-8277 ___________________________________________________________ FREE Groceries! Receive $2000 in Grocery Savings! Grocery Stimulus Program provides $2000 savings to participants of shopping survey. ALL MAJOR AND LOCAL supermarkets!

Call 877-301-1682 ___________________________________________________________ Get trained to fix jets at campuses coast to coast for jobs nationwide.Financial aid if___________________________________________________________ you qualify. Call AIM (866)453-6204 or visit www.fixjets.com CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY. Instant offer: 1800-864-5784 ___________________________________________________________ CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY GET IT REMOVED! New program utilizing Consumer Protection Attorneys. Need a Minimum $5000 in debt to qualify. Please call 1-866652-7630! ___________________________________________________________ **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 high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program.Financial aid if qualified – Housing available.CALL Aviation Institute of___________________________________________________________ Maintenance (888) 686-1704 ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available.

Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com ___________________________________________________________ AUTHENTIC NEW TEMPURPEDIC MATTRESS CLEARANCE! 20-30% OFF FACTORY RETAIL PRICING- FREE SHIPPING - NO TAX CALL 813-889-9020 FOR DETAILS- LIMITED SUPPLY CALL NOW! ___________________________________________________________ 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

CLASSIFIEDS

CASH PAID for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS- up to $17/Box! Most brands. Shipping Prepaid. FAST payment. Ask for Emma 1-888-776-7771 www.cash4diabeticsupplies.com ___________________________________________________________ DIRECTV $0 Start Costs! 285+ Channels! Starts $29.99/mo FREE HBO/Showtime/Starz/Cinemax 3 Months + FREE HD Channels + FREE HD/DVR Upgrade!

FREE Installation! $0 Start! (800) 329-6061 ___________________________________________________________ DIRECTV Fall Special! Free HD, 3 mos FREE HBO|Showtime| Starz|Cinemax, NFL SUNDAY TICKET™ Free with CHOICE XTRA or above – Pkgs from $29.99/mo. Ends 11/23/11!

Call 866-397-2788 ___________________________________________________________ Get TV & Internet for UNDER $50/mo. For 6 mos. PLUS Get $300 Back!-select plans.

Limited Time ONLY Call NOW! 866-944-0906 ___________________________________________________________ GET YOUR DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com ___________________________________________________________ HANDS ON Aviation Career – Become an Aviation Maintenance Technician. FAA approved program.Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance.Call AIM (877) 206-1503 ___________________________________________________________ Reach over 20 million homes nationwide with one easy buy! Only $2,395 per week for a 25 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com ___________________________________________________________ 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. ___________________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDING SALE! US National Steel now selling directly to the public. CLEARANCE SALE on all prefabricated kits. FREE SHIPPING! 1-800-917-7080. ___________________________________________________________ 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 ___________________________________________________________ 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) 594-2251 ___________________________________________________________

------------- NOTICES ---------Compulsive Eaters Anonymous - H.O.W.is a free,12 Step program for people who have a problem controlling their eating. We have meetings every day throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. For more information, call 412-225-1664, e-mail info@ceahowpa.org or visit www.ceahowpa.org. It's simple, free and it works. Please keep coming back no matter what! ___________________________________________________________ Monongahela Class of 1967 - planning 45 year class reunion in September 2012.

We are inviting anyone who would like to help in the planning of this event to please contact Kathy at 724-258-7399 or Patti at 724-782-0141. Next meeting is Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m. at Paul Lacko's home on Route 136. ___________________________________________________________ LOST – Wedding Ring.Men’s.White Gold.Lost while driving along Rt.88 near Mingo Church Road, Finleyville. Very sentimental and important. Reward offered. If found, please call 412-760-2291. ___________________________________________________________ ATTENTION Diabetics with Medicare Join America`s Diabetic Savings Club and receive a FREE diabetic bracelet. Membership is FREE. Qualify for meter upgrades, prescription delivery and free giveaways. Call 1-888-474-3420 ___________________________________________________________ SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation.

866-983-3264 ___________________________________________________________

------------- PETS ---------14 New Zealand White Bunnies - $15 each.Also,2 female New Zealand white rabbits for sale for $25 each. If interested, please call 724-239-2196. ___________________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer. Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted___________________________________________________________ dogs! 724-249-5777.

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

(724) 348-8028. ___________________________________________________________ ANGELS FOR ANIMALS. Collecting Aluminum Cans for an on-going fundraiser.

(Please no steel, no pie tins, and no aluminum foil.) Also selling Enjoy & Entertainment Books for $25.00 each. For pick up of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724941-5737.

Dog Training: If your dog isn’t coming to you, you should be coming to me. AKC, Schutzhund, canine good citizen and therapy dog experienced contact karyn727@comcast.net or 412-855-4678 Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth,excellent care,daily cleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month.

(724) 348-8028. ___________________________________________________________

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------------ REAL ESTATE -------House for rent - Monongahela, 822 Marne St., 2 bedroom, very clean, big 2 car garage,very nice porch,possible rent to own,no pets,$600 per month.Call 412-2961999. ___________________________________________________________ Mobile home for sale - 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, mobile home and 3 lots for sale.

Located at 2 Wood Alley in Carroll Twp. Off Rt. 837, Monongahela. Owner financing considered. $35,000. Call 724-350-5983.

FOR SALE – Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534 Apartment for rent - 3 bedroom downstairs apartment located at 230 Donnan Ave., Washington, gas furnace and/or electric baseboard heat, large corner yard, $500 per month plus utilities. First and last month's rent required. Call 724-258-9115. ___________________________________________________________ 1 flr brick house - a/c & generator. 715 Lincoln Ave., Bentleyville. $160,000. Call 724-239-3647. ___________________________________________________________

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1 Bedroom Apartment for Rent - in the Union Twp. area. Fenced in big yard in a quiet neighborhood. Reasonable rent and clean. Please email me at Budlife3@hotmail.com or call 724-993-0731. ___________________________________________________________ Westmoreland County Space for Lease - Located at 1100 South Main Street, Greensburg, is Westmoreland Crossroads with 22,000 Square Feet of prime space available for lease.The holidays are coming and Westmoreland Crossroads offers fantastic storefront suites with abundant parking and direct access to Route 30 and Route 119. Westmoreland Crossroads has a prime location within a high-traffic area and affordable monthly rates. Don't let the cool weather fool you, we have time to put you in the space you need. Call Matthew Ivill today at 724-483-1600 or email him at lease@genindustries.com. ___________________________________________________________ 1 Bedroom Apartment - for rent in the Union twp. area. Fenced in big yard in a quiet neighborhood. Reasonable rent and clean. Please email me at Budlife3@hotmail.com or___________________________________________________________ call 724-993-0731.

Small house for rent. Country setting. Suitable for one person. Includes sewage and garbage.

Close to Rt. 43. No pets. $550 per month. 724-785-2955 ___________________________________________________________

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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December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

Residential lot. South Park. $30,000. Ridge Road. For details email DeniseMarasco@HowardHanna.com or call 4125617400. ___________________________________________________________ Apt for Rent - 2 BR, 2nd flr., country, private, by itself. Laundry rm. & porch. Lots of parking.

Updated. No pets. $525+. Call (412) 384-5406. ___________________________________________________________ (4632 US RT 40, Claysville) $244,900 - Commercial Building, Offices, Warehouse, 5000+ SF.All Equip. included! Make offer!! Lisa Mull, Prudential Preferred Realty 412854-7200 ext 228 or 724-678-2454. ___________________________________________________________ Building for Rent – 40x60 commercial bldg for rent at 780 Bentleyville Rd.,Charleroi, PA. Located just off I-70, Exit 32B, Bentleyville. Call 724-258-9115. ___________________________________________________________ 1999 Commodore mobile home. exc. condition. Only 1 owner - bought brand new in___________________________________________________________ 2001. Call 412-600-9061 2008 Tioga 31M Motorhome - 12,200 miles, like new, loaded, dual slide, 6.8 V10 engine, 5 speed automatic, many upgrades-too many to list. $62,000 OBO. Call 412384-4667. ___________________________________________________________ House for Rent - Newly remodeled older 3 or 4 bedroom house for rent in Peters Twp/Venetia. Extra room could be den or bedroom. First, last and security deposit required and credit check. Monthly rent $1200.00 plus utilities. Separate 1 car garage with room for storage or workshop.Has refrigerator,stove and hook ups for washer and dryer.

New kitchen and carpeting. Big yard. Call 724-348-5162. ___________________________________________________________ Charleroi Sale or Lease - Renovated 3-Story Building. Commercial lease income.

Also, turnkey bar/restaurant. Call: 724-531-1175. ___________________________________________________________ Office Space For Rent – Finleyville. 1,300 square feet. Former site of Healthy Directions. $800 + Electric. 412-999-7163.

FOR SALE. Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534 MONONGAHELA - For rent, one, two bedroom apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc. Secured locked building, quaint and quiet. Close to bus line. One bedroom partially furnished. Monongahela. Call 724-258-3179. ___________________________________________________________ One, Two Bedroom Apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc.

Secured locked building, quant and quite. Close to bus line. One bedroom partial furnished.

Monongahela. Call Natalee Amati 724-244-8579 or 724-258-3179. ___________________________________________________________ FOR RENT - Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony.For complete weekly and seasonal pricing,visit the website - www.oceanfront condorentals.com/ Paradise Resort.htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843-236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507.

New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negotiable. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773.

AUCTION TENNESSEE LAND 440Ac/88Ac Meigs, Monroe Co; Offered Divided Small & Large Tracts ONLINE NOW www.LandAuction411.com (931) 796-3505 Middle Tennessee Realty & Auction, LLC TN5576-10%BP ___________________________________________________________ LOTS & ACREAGE ADIRONDACK MTNS. 5 ACRES Adjoins State Land / Horse Trails Snowmobile / ATV Trail system ONLY $22,900 CALL NOW (877) 471-4286 Land Videos at mooseriverland.com ___________________________________________________________ LOTS & ACREAGE NY FARM LIQUIDATION! 10 acres - $24,900 Best views in the County! Just north of the PA border! Nice meadows,stonewalls 100% buildable! Won't last at this price! (866) 495-8733 ___________________________________________________________ REAL ESTATE-HOUSES FOR SALE UPSTATE NY MINI-FARM! 9 ac Farmhouse/Barn - $124,900 Nice old farmhouse,15,000 sq ft.barn,beautiful upstate NY setting 3 hrs NYC! Fields, views! Call NOW! (888) 738-6994. www.NewYorkLandand Lakes.com ___________________________________________________________ Stop Renting Lease option to buy Rent to own No money down No credit check 1877-395-0321 ___________________________________________________________ ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. Low down payment.

Call now 800-250-2043. ___________________________________________________________ ARIZONA RANCH Lots! 50%OFF! 15AAA+ View Lots $0Down! Starting $99/mo!

Guaranteed Financing! Near Tucsons Intl Airport www.sunsiteslandrush.com 1-800659-9957 PromoCode CPF ___________________________________________________________ Available Now!!! 2-4 Bedroom homes Take Over Payments No Money Down/No Credit Check Call 1-888-269-9192 ___________________________________________________________ 40 ACRES, COLORADO $19,500! $200 down, $200/month. Surveyed, good road, easy access to fishing rivers, streams, lakes. Near ski areas and mountain recreation, Owner, 806-376-8690 diane.steed@att.net ___________________________________________________________ 20 ACRES To Live On ONLY $99/mo. $0/Down. No Credit Checks, Money Back Guarantee, Owner Financing. Near Growing El Paso Texas. Beautiful Mountain Views!

Free Color Brochure. 1-800-843-7537. www.sunsetranches.com ___________________________________________________________

------------ SERVICES ----------BABYSITTER / NANNY For Summer - Let your kids sleep in & play in the neighborhood. American Red Cross Certified, Experienced, Reasonable, References. Kelsey: 724-348-6528. ___________________________________________________________ South Hills Tax Preparation - ALL 1040 TAX RETURNS ONLY $75! FREE State & Local Returns. FREE E-Filing. 10 Years Experience. Located in South Park. Call Rich Diffenbach at (412) 835-4842 ___________________________________________________________ Certified Dog Trainer.Private Lessons. I use positive reinforcement techniques and can help with any problem solving and obedience. Discounted rate for rescued/adopted___________________________________________________________ dogs! 724-249-5777.

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

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.

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.

SIDING WINDOWS ROOFING MEREDITH HOME IMPROVEMENTS. 30 years in business. If you need vinyl siding, roofing, windows or soffit and fascia done professionally, with no problems afterward and done at a reasonable price, we are the company to do it! We are so confident in your satisfaction that we require no money until the___________________________________________________________ job is completed. www.MeredithHome Improvements.com (412) 831-9991

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

----------- VACATIONS ---------------Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home.2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfrontcondo rentals.com/ParadiseResort.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. ___________________________________________________________ Bus Tours - New York City Express, December 2 - 4, 2011, $449 per person, Rockettes Xmas Spectacular included. Call 724-292-8043 or 412-513-4020 for details. ___________________________________________________________ WEEKEND GETAWAY! Deep Creek, Maryland. 5 Bedroom Home for Rent. *Ski Wisp*, Call Dave at 412.427.3691 for more details! ___________________________________________________________

READER ADVISORY: Reader Advisory: the National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds.

Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment” but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars.

800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

December 2011 ————————————————————————————————————————

UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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unionfinley.com

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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER

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Think it’s easy to dodge millions of flu germs traveling at 100 miles per hour?

Protect yourself with a flu shot.

Healthy Directions’ flu vaccine protects against the influenza A and B viruses and H1N1.

Only $25

Major insurance accepted

Walk-in

Finleyville Giant Eagle, 3701 Route 88, Finleyville, PA, 724-348-6699 Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; (Lab opens at 7 a.m. Monday-Saturday) Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

mvhhealthydirections.com