Progress 2016 Edition II by Herald-Star

COMMUNITY, RETAIL, FINANCIAL SERVICES

PROGRESS II — SECTION A

MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

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Contributed

The main entrance to Franciscan Square will be across the street from the main entrance to Franciscan University.

New hotel, other hospitality services to transform University Boulevard corridor

A drive along University Boulevard in Steubenville reveals a transformation under way. By late summer it will significantly alter the first impression the city makes upon visitors and longtime residents. What had been 13 acres of unused land and mostly shuttered buildings along the former Green Strip, today is being turned into the first large-scale commercial complex Steubenville has seen in more than 20 years. Christened “Franciscan Square,” the hospitality complex will feature a new hotel flanked by two restaurants and a community green space, with the potential for phasedin construction of multi-use buildings that will cater to office and retail establishments. Evan Scurti, executive director of economic development with the Jefferson Coun-

ty Port Authority, sees Franciscan Square as a building block to large-scale job creation. “The new hotel and the retail and office options in the later phases of Franciscan Square are seen as pluses by large industrial companies. They want to have access to those services. They see them as signs of progress in a community, so this development builds up the whole economy.” Scurti calls the new enterprise “an important factor in the long-range viability” of Steubenville and surrounding communities.

Phase I—A New Hotel Construction on Franciscan Square commenced with the May 6, groundbreaking ceremony. With as many as 40 construction workers from various building trades on the job site on a typical day,

Phase I of the undertaking — the construction of the new hotel—is well under way. The first priority was to provide a solid foundation to support the new buildings, and so 18,000 cubic yards of soil were transported to the site, raising the ground as much as 8 feet in some areas. After the foundation for the hotel was poured, work began on the shafts for the stairwells and elevators, which were the first visible vertical structures. Flanking the hotel, pads are being readied with electrical, water and gas lines and other infrastructure necessary to support the restaurants. Posi-

tive discussions continue with a developer for this phase of the project. A massive retaining wall was built to hold back the hillside. The 17,600-square-foot minor marvel of engineering is a soil-nail type retaining wall. It is anchored by strategically engineered holes drilled into the hillside, some as deep as 50 feet. Each hole then was filled with a reinforcing bar and grout and further supported by the structural concrete facing. See SQUARE Page 2A ➪

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Square Continued from Page 1A

Within five years vegetation planted around the hillside shelf will render the wall all but invisible. The Inn at Franciscan Square This month, Franciscan University officials announced the official name for the hotel: The Inn at Franciscan Square. The Inn will be part of the Best Western Plus Hotels and Resorts portfolio and will be managed by Prospera Hospitality of Pittsburgh. The Inn will replace the present Best Western hotel on the north side of University Boulevard, which eventually will be converted into muchneeded student housing for Franciscan University of Steubenville. David Skiviat, vice president of finance and administration at the university, says that beyond the visual impact of a new retail complex in Steubenville, Franciscan Square “is about creating a sense of place and community.” He notes that a community green space in front of the Inn at Franciscan Square will be a prominent feature of the development. “This will be a gathering place for our community,”

he says. “A place where events can be held on summer evenings and activities at other times of the year can take place.” Design and Amenities The Inn at Franciscan Square will incorporate design features not found at other Best Western hotels. “The exterior colors, design themes and rooflines will give the hotel a Franciscan flavor,” incorporating themes from buildings on the university’s campus, says Skiviat. An interior designer from Pittsburgh will incorporate “unique colors, designs and Franciscan touches” to the lobby and other interior spaces. The materials and design patterns will create a high quality presentation — what designers refer to as “a singular experience” for guests that will accentuate the hotel’s distinctive character. Six of the hotel’s 113 rooms will feature upscale amenities and will be promoted as “premium rooms.” The Inn also will offer an indoor pool, an outdoor eating area, an outdoor gas fire pit

and other features typical of a full-service hotel, including a light breakfast service. The result, says Skiviat, will be “a special look and feel for guests” that makes for an enhanced hospitality experience. Community response to Franciscan Square has been “overwhelmingly positive” says Skiviat.

Speaking at the groundbreaking, Steubenville Mayor Domenick Mucci Jr. said that when combined with the ongoing improvements to the University Boulevard and state Route 7 interchange, the new commercial development “is a real game-changer. We now consider this to be a new entrance to Steubenville.” See SQUARE Page 10A ➪

Contributed

Architect’s rendering of phase I of Franciscan Square.

“The new hotel and the retail and office options in the later phases of Franciscan Square are seen as pluses by large industrial companies.” – Evan Scurti, Jefferson County Port Authority

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Contributed

In the summer of 2015, the terrain was raised by 8 feet, then work began on the foundation at Franciscan Square.

Work begins on one of the interior support beams to the new hotel at Franciscan Square.

“This (the community space in front of the Inn at Franciscan Square) will be a gathering place for our community. A place where events can be held on summer evenings and activities at other times of the year can take place.”

The retaining wall at Franciscan Square is anchored by dozens of strategically engineered holes, which were filled with reinforcing bars and grout.

– David Skiviat, vice president of finance and administration at the university

Contributed

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State of the local economy

Area leaders say surrounding counties offer different strengths

By MARK LAW Staff writer

Area leaders said they are confident about the state of the local economy, with counties boasting different strengths. Jefferson County government suddenly finds itself with an influx of sales tax dollars, Brooke County is banking on economic development around Beech Bottom once the proposed new bridge is built and Hancock County has seen the rebirth of used commercial property and the potential for thousands of acres of land. Jefferson County Com-

missioner Thomas Graham said an increase in consumer spending has led to an increase in funding for county government in the form of the 1.5 percent sales and use tax. “We are dealing with more money than we ever had this year,” Graham said. He believes the gas and oil industry is pumping more money into the local economy, whether it be in the form of land leases, payroll or items purchased. “The revenue coming into Jefferson County is a good sign, and we continue to look forward to that,” he

said. Graham said the increase in gross retail sales must also be benefiting the private sector. “To have that kind of sales tax revenue, some businesses must be doing good,” Graham said. During the economic recession in 2009, gross retail sales in Jefferson County averaged $52.42 million a month. The gross retail sales rebounded to

$66.4 million a month in 2014 and increased to $78.95 million a month in 2015.

“Even if we gave all the departments all they asked for we would still have a surplus. I’ve never seen

Graham said he has seen the county’s general fund budget as low as $11 million, but the budget this year will be around $15 million.

that,” he said. “We still need to be fiscally conservative and cautious. It is a positive trend and makes See COUNTIES Page 5A ➪

Contributed

The former TS&T Pottery site in northern Hancock County awaits further cleanup, but progress is being made toward its eventual redevelopment. BDC bought the property in 2012 and has spent four years putting together a complex funding package to enable site remediation and marketing to obtain a new end-user.

Contributed

Work crews were on site in March 2015 at the former Jimmy Carey Stadium property in Weirton to remove old fuel tanks and begin clearing the land. The site was purchased and Hancock County is working with the BDC to market the property.

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Counties Continued from Page 4A

the budget process easier.” Graham said he hopes more businesses invest in Jefferson County. He said the Jefferson County Port Authority is working on economic development prospects, adding a couple are on the verge of becoming a reality. He said some of the prospects can bring 20 to 40 jobs and others can be around 100. “We invite any employment opportunity, regardless of the number of employees,” he said. Graham overall is very positive about the state of the county. “I think it is the best I’ve seen in a long time. We can always do better, and that is what we strive to do,” Graham said. Brooke County Commissioner Tim Ennis is looking north and south for future economic development in the county. Ennis said the county still is feeling the pinch of the downturn of the steel industry, but the gas and oil industry activity has helped a little bit in the rebound. “We are concerned the gas and oil industry jobs are temporary, with a life expectancy of eight to 10 years,” he said. But Ennis is excited about the talk about a gas power plant locating somewhere in the county. Ennis sees development opportunities in Beech Bottom and along Three Springs Drive in Weirton. “We will see major economic development in southern Brooke County with the new bridge. We

see southern Brooke County having a major growth in economic development. The problem facing this area and all of West Virginia is having marketable land.” Ennis said there are 500 acres of developable land in the Beech Bottom area. He noted he believes the county made progress in 2015. “The folks in Brooke County will see more activity in 2016,” he said. The county’s budget has remained stable, with no significant increase or decrease in the last year. Ennis said it is difficult for economic development to result in more revenue for the county coffers. He said Weirton has seen an increase in its motel and hotel tax with oil and gas industry workers occupying hotel and motel rooms. Steubenville Mayor Domenick Mucci said the city continues to struggle financially but some end-of-theyear figures showed an increase in the wage and income tax. Mucci said the income tax brought in an additional $400,000 last year, attributable to the health care industry. He said the city has committed $15,000 to the county port authority to assist the county in economic development. “We will continue to support their efforts,” he said. Mucci said everyone thought the increase in the income tax was attributed to the gas and oil industry, but he noted the city has See COUNTIES Page 7A ➪

Contributed

The concept sit-down Domino’s on Pennsylvania Avenue opened as part of an effort of the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle. The BDC bought a former fire station and helped bring the Domino’s project to fruition.

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Gaslite offers new look outside, same great taste inside The Gaslite Restaurant, 820 Canton Road, Wintersville, has a new look out front but the same great taste inside. The recent purchase of a new sign, from a local company, has made the restaurant stand out on the busy road. The Petrella brothers ask everyone to remember to shop small, local and familyowned businesses. They encourage diners to stop at the Gaslite Mondays through Saturdays and let the Petrella family serve local families. For reservations and carry-out, call (740) 264-2225. Contributed

Counties Continued from Page 5A

not seen much of an impact from the that industry. He did say the city can see benefits from oil and gas industry workers when they live and shop in the city. Mucci said 2016 will be a challenging year for the city, adding department spending will have to be managed throughout the year. “As we more forward, we have to do so in the most costeffective way. City Council is analyzing the departments to provide the most cost-effect services,” he said. Mucci said the city does have some exciting business opportunities. He pointed to the Franciscan Square development on University Boulevard. He said once the construction phase is finished, the project will move to the employment phase. And there is a senior citizen housing project in the works in the city’s West End. “There are indications with the development office that economic-development opportunities will continue to happen. We have to make sure our infrastructure is available to support economicdevelopment opportunities,” he said. Mucci said there also is the development of a hotel along state Route 7, and the city is looking to develop a walking trail from Blum Park to the hotel. He added the Grand Theater restoration will bring entertainment to complement the events at Historic Fort Steuben. Mucci said on top of all the economic development efforts, the city must set crime fighting as a top priority. “It will continue to be a struggle. One way to address it is additional personnel, but that comes with an expense,” Mucci said. Hancock County Mike Swartzmiller said the county’s finances continue to be on solid ground, despite the continuing loss of revenue from gaming, especially at

the Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Casino. “We had a vision. We knew we couldn’t put all our eggs in one basket. We saved dedicated money for economic development,” Swartzmiller said. The commission set aside money for improvements to the county’s buildings, and he noted the courthouse was renovated, including a new roof and remodeling of the sheriff’s department. A new 911 and emergency management agency building has opened. An old retail store was renovated into offices for the magistrate court, and the prosecutor’s office was moved to a newer facility. “We are good for the next decade and won’t have to put money into the county’s buildings,” he said. Swartzmiller said the county had a dream of economic development. He noted officials went to a convention about 10 years ago where the message was counties can’t sit back and wait for economic development. “You can’t sit back and say it is coming,” he said. Swartzmiller said one way to make economic development happen is to improve the appearances of communities. He said the “curb appeal” of communities is being improved with the demolition of blighted buildings and structures. The county got involved with the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle and financially supported the organization’s economic development activities. Swartzmiller said the former Taylor, Smith & Taylor pottery in Chester was demolished, ending a 30-year eyesore. A spec building will be constructed on the site to spur economic development. The former football stadium in Newell was purchased and now is the location of a $5.5 mil-

lion automobile dealership. “Government has to be involved but government doesn’t have to be the first involved,” he said. Swartzmiller said the county wanted the private sector to be first in line to purchase the Newell property. When that didn’t happen, the county stepped in. The former football field off West Street in Weirton also was purchased and the county is working with the BDC to market the property. Also, the former fire station on Weirton Heights was turned into an eat-in Dominos pizza shop. “All the projects have worked,” Swartzmiller said. “We contribute all our success to Pat Ford and the BDC.” Swartzmiller said

the county also is looking to develop 1,300 acres of excess property at Mountaineer, and hopefully ArcelorMittal will offer about 1,300

acres of excess land. “We may be the smallest county in the state, but we may be able to market 1,300 acres of land to develop. We have

worked hard to make opportunities happen,” he said. (Law can be contacted at mlaw@heraldstaronline.com.)

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WHEELING — Main Street Bank had a record-setting earnings year in 2015 and is poised for further growth in 2016. The bank’s 2015 earnings were $4,040,000, representing $2.29 to its shareholders. Main Street Bank is currently ranked as the top-performing bank on a list of 62 community banks in northern West Virginia and Maryland. After less than 15 years of operation, Main Street Bank already has expanded to four locations and 65 employees and holds $31 million of capital. The bank opened its doors on June 20, 2001, at 2001 Main St., Wheeling, with 12 employees and $5.25 million of capital stock purchased by more than 400 local investors. The first new bank estab-

lished in Ohio County in more than 30 years, it became profitable very quickly, in only its ninth month of operations in 2002. In 2003, Main Street Financial Services Corp., the bank’s current holding company, was formed. The corporation now holds all 1,738,000 shares of the company stock. Main Street Financial Services Corp. stock is privately held by about 500 shareholders, the vast majority of it still held by local investors. As of Dec. 31, total assets for the corporation reached $362 million. Main Street Bank’s expansion began in 2005 when it opened its first branch in Wellsburg. The bank’s second Wheeling location opened in Elm Grove in 2008, and the Moundsville location opened

in 2012. Main Street Bank prides itself on its continued community support, one of the bank’s core values, which it has delivered on for 15 years. The bank has partnered with its neighbors in all of the communities it serves, supporting education, community events and civic and charitable organizations. Rich Lucas, president and chief executive officer of Main Street Bank since its opening in 2001, was pleased with the bank’s growth in 2015. He said, “Main Street Bank had an extremely successful year in 2015. We had record earnings again this year, double digit asset growth, strong growth in our loans and deposits, and still have the lowest fees for our services of any bank in the area.”

Whether you are planning Intuitiveness on buying or selling a home, Caring and concern choosing the right real estate Exceptional service agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll Mary Fran Kowalo’s accommake. plishments Please allow me to be your Voted 2009 — Best Real first choice at Estate Agent — The First Choice Weirton Daily Times Realtors ... I will Voted 2015 — be an indispensaBest Real Estate ble resource and Agent — The Weirgive you up-toton Daily Times date information Awarded 2009, about the hous2010, 2011, 2012, ing market in 2013, 2014, 2015 Top general, market Producer in sales for your property to Wheeling Board of other real estate Realtors agents, as well 2009-2012 Board as to the public of Directors for and surrounding Wheeling Board of MARY FRAN KOWALO communities Realtors and counties — State Director for and will know the best way to Wheeling Board of Realtors go about doing so. I can help 2011, 2012 and 2013 you objectively evaluate Largest Residential Sale buyer proposals, and then 2010 for Wheeling Board of finally help you close the sale Realtors in a professional manner. My 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 goal is to steer you through the Double Dip Award closing process to make sure 2012 and 2013 Wheeling everything goes smoothly. Board of Directors and State I Promise: Director for Wheeling Board Faithfulness of Realtors Integrity 2012 nominee for Best of Reliability the Best Realtor Satisfaction Also serves on the Public Trustworthiness Relations committees for the Cooperation Wheeling Board of Realtors Helpfulness and a member of the WellsOngoing support burg Chamber of Commerce.

I have been a life-long resident of Brooke County and am a graduate of Brooke High School. I attended West Liberty State College and earned a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education. I was a teacher in Brooke County for 35 years before retiring in 2010. My real estate education was obtained at Spruce School of Real Estate in Charleston, W.Va., in 2006. In 2014, I was selected to be a member of the Brooke County Real Estate Commission. I also was selected to serve with the Brooke Economic Development Association in 2015. I have been a full-time realtor for nine years, assisting my clients with all their real estate needs, while serving the counties of Hancock, Brooke, Ohio and Marshall. I promise to put you first in all of your real estate needs. Please allow me to “Find Your Way Home.” www.maryfrankowalo.com and www.firstchoicerealtors.com Cell: (304) 639-1253 Office: (304) 737-0037 Please visit me at our new location at 931 Charles St., Wellsburg. Think First Choice — The Right Choice!

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Mosti Funeral Home: Dedicated to

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STEUBENVILLE — As a community staple for the past 99 years, Mosti Funeral Home is dedicated to helping area residents plan their final arrangements as well as assisting families in honoring their departed loved ones. Established in 1917 by Eugene and Edith Mosti, the funeral home is proud of its well-earned reputation of caring, personal service and dedication to serving the families of the local area in the same manner, said Donald Mosti. He and his son, David, said respect and integrity are the key principles that have guided them as they have overseen the funeral home’s operations over the years. “Our mission is to serve families at their difficult time by providing professional, well-organized, quality personal services at a moderate price,” Mosti said. “A family’s customs, whether traditional or nontraditional, religious or

MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Contributed

For four generations, Mosti Funeral Home has been guided by two very important principles — respect and integrity for clients. The Mosti family includes, from left, Donald, Jared, Justin and David Mosti.

nonreligious, we will ensure the family’s wishes will be honored. The staff members at Mosti Funeral Home seek to ease families through this difficult decisionmaking process.”

Mosti Funeral Home Inc. is a modern full-service funeral home serving families of all faiths and traditions from two locations: Downtown at 321 S. Fourth St. and at the Sunset

Chapel at 4435 Sunset Blvd., which opened in 1997. The funeral home offers traditional funerals, cremations with viewinag and funeral services, direct cremations,

pre-need funeral planning and funding, cemetery monuments, pet cremations and a full line of pet urns, caskets and memorialization products. Donald Mosti has been a licensed embalmer and funeral director for more than 60 years. He holds licensure in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. His son, David Mosti, has been a licensed funeral director and embalmer for more than 30 years and also is licensed in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Both directors are active in the community and service organizations. David’s son, Jared, has earned his license as a funeral director and embalmer. David’s younger son, Justin, recently graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science and is currently serving a oneyear apprenticeship, working toward his licensure. Jared and Justin

are the fourth generation of the Mosti family to work at the family funeral home. Jared is a graduate of Catholic Central High School and Franciscan University of Steubenville, while Justin is a graduate of Catholic Central and West Liberty University. Mosti Funeral Home is a member of the Ohio Funeral Directors Association, the Belmont County Funeral Directors Association and the Ohio Embalmers Association. The Mosti family would like to thank those who have entrusted the funeral home with the care of their loved ones over the years. The caring and compassionate staff at Mosti Funeral Home are available to answer any questions concerning funerals, costs and pre-planning during a family’s time of need. They can be reached at (740) 264-4767, and for information, visitwww.mostifuneralhome.com.

Square Continued from Page 2A

Mucci credited cooperation between Franciscan

University and the Schools and other the project forward city of Steubenville, government entities during a 10-year Steubenville City for slowly pushing period. In the Jefferson County Port

Authority’s 2015 Year in Review, Scurti emphasized the project’s overall impact, saying,

“it not only strengthens Franciscan University, but it provides a modern, commercial gateway into the county seat and creates quality new jobs.” Framing of the hotel and interior construction has continued through winter with no significant weather or construction delays. The hotel is on schedule for a September opening. The conversion of the current Best Western into residence living space for 180 Franciscan students will begin in the fall and be ready for students in fall 2017. You can follow the latest activity about Franciscan Square at facebook.com/franciscansquare.

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Schuetz Funeral Home offers quality funeral arrangements at a discounted cost

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MINGO JUNCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Schuetz Funeral Home at 235 Clifton Ave. has been providing quality funeral arrangements at a discounted cost since it opened in August 2013. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When the bereaved go to a funeral home, the businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first question is how much do you have to spend and not what type of service would you like. At the Schuetz Funeral Home, we tell you our prices up front. It has helped us grow,â&#x20AC;? said Jeffrey Schuetz, owner. Schuetz said his staff works with families that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a lot of money to spend on a funeral service. He said it is important families come into the funeral home knowing what they can spend.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A death can be emotionally devastating and financially difficult. We are here to help with a welcoming and comfortable environment to receive family and friends. When it comes to preplanning for yourself and your spouse, or making final arrangements for someone you love, we provide quality and caring service to you and your family,â&#x20AC;? Schuetz said. Schuetz said the funeral home offers a range of personalized services to suit a familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishes and requirements. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can count on us to help you plan a personal, lasting tribute to your loved one, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll carefully guide you through the many decisions that must be made during this challenging time.â&#x20AC;?

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The funeral home also offers blankets with pictures of family members woven inside as a lasting tribute.

Schuetz also offers cremation services, grave markers, pet services and prearrangement needs.

As oil, gas industry grows, so does demand for heavy duty towing

By SCOTT MCCLOSKEY Staff writer

WHEELING â&#x20AC;&#x201D; As the oil and natural gas industry has grown dramatically throughout the Ohio Valley during the past few years, so has the demand for heavy duty towing and recovery services. Two well-established longtime towing companies â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Billâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Towing in Belmont County and Middle Creek Garage in Triadelphia â&#x20AC;&#x201D; are two such businesses that have experienced a significant increase in business during the past few years because of the dramatic increase in service calls pertaining to heavy vehicles associated with the oil and gas industry. Along with the increase in calls comes a variety of challenges in the 24-hour-aday towing and recovery business. Recovery can include anything from working with load stabilization, shift and rollover services to transporting and clean-up services. Chad Coulson, coowner of Billâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Towing, said it is obviously a matter of the numbers and geography. He said they have seen a significant increase in service calls regarding the oil and gas industry around East Ohio simply because there are a lot more heavy vehicles traveling more back roads and highways. Coulson said his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business saw an opportunity to expand its towing business in 2009 after the oil and gas business began to take hold around the Upper Ohio Valley about the same time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We saw there was an opportunity for us to expand. ... There are more vehicles on the roads â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and the roads they are traveling are not made for what they are doing, and that causes some problems,â&#x20AC;? he said. Billâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Towing expanded from its Bridgeport shop in 2010 by adding a heavy truck division in Industrial Park near Ohio University Eastern in Belmont County. He said by adding the Industrial Park location, the business was able to employ an additional 12 people. Coulson said along with a towing business comes a variety challenges â&#x20AC;&#x201D; some involving crucial decisionmaking. He said there

have been instances where they had to perform delicate load stabilization and shift services on accident scenes so emergency personnel could extricate a victim from a vehicle. He said many times they have to use large air bags in conjunction with tow trucks to shift and remove loads. Coulson and his brother, co-owner Ty Coulson, along with several other crew members, were recently honored by American Towman Magazine for actions they took in aiding rescue personnel on the scene of a tractortrailer accident during a snowstorm on Interstate 70 in St. Clairsville in 2014. They aided in lifting a large truck after a woman became trapped beneath it. Coulson said when they are dealing with such heavy loads in the oil and gas industry it can present a unique set of challenges â&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially when they find themselves working along such narrow back roads around the valley. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are on singlelane roads, where it is barely wide enough for a car and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to take a tractortrailer down though â&#x20AC;&#x201D; then if something happens, we have, say, 8 feet of roadway to work with,â&#x20AC;? he said. In addition, Coulson said they train many hours with stabilizing and recovery services with local fire departments throughout the year. He said they recently participated in a class at Belmont College that was geared specifically toward recovery services in the oil and gas industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They trained us and, in return, we trained them with what we can do â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so if there ever is an incident, we can work together,â&#x20AC;? he added. As a third-generation family towing business that offers 24-hour emergency towing and recovery services, Middle Creek Garage in Triadelphia also has seen a dramatic increase in demand for services during the past few years. Middle Creek Garage handles every aspect of the recovery, including stabilization, relocation, cleanup and transport services. Middle Creek Garage

Vice President Douglas Knollinger said the firm also has encountered a much larger demand over the past three years for specialized recovery and equipment services due to the oil and gas industry. While Middle Creek Garage covers most of the tri-state region, Knollinger said the company has been extremely busy responding to calls in Ohio, Marshall and Wetzel counties. He said once the oil and gas boom hit the valley a few years ago, his company decided to invest in additional equipment and trucks. The company recently purchased a heavy-duty, 65-ton tow and recovery truck with a large rotating crane.

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PROGRESS II — SECTION B

ʻPrayer is a big part of our lifeʼ Mark J. Miller

The sisters of the Franciscan Sisters Third Order Regular of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother take a moment to stand in front of the altar at the church at their monastery off county Road 46 in Toronto. The sisters spend hours praying and doing charitable works in the community, including hosting soup kitchens and meals and providing clothing for the poor.

Mark J. Miller

Sister Mary Catherine Kasuboski, left, and Mother Mary Ann Kessler said the sisters of the Franciscan Sisters Third Order Regular of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother do more than just pray. They also spend a significant amount of time going out in the community and performing charitable works.

Franciscan order very active in the community

By MARK J. MILLER Staff writer

TORONTO — The nuns at the Franciscan Sisters Third Order Regular of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother want their neighbors and the local community to know they are out in the community, doing good work and helping the poor whenever possible. Their home, off county Road 46, known as Our Lady of Sorrows, has been through lots of changes since the monastery was founded in 1995 off county Road 46 on Little Church Road. Mother Mary Ann Kessler said a lot of people don’t

realize the sisters are out there in the community, and the sisters want to let the community know they are active. “We wanted the local community to know what’s happened here in the past 20 years,” said Kessler, adding the sisters do spend about five hours per day, praying for mankind. “Prayer is a big part of our life.” Kessler said their prayers to God are considered a part of their community contribution, and prayer hours at the monastery equal 1,295 per

week, 5,180 hours per month, and 62,160 hours per year. “We pray for the entire community, and we also take prayer requests,” said Kessler, adding prayer requests can be submitted to the order’s website at www.franciscansisterstor.org. One of the other charitable

works is Samaritan House, 424 Washington St., Steubenville. “It’s a thrift store and emergency food bank,” Kessler said. “We also do L.A.M.P. That’s like a breakfast club.” Kessler said the event See ORDER Page 2B ➪

Jefferson County Board of Elections set for March 15 primary election 352*5( 66 3U L GH 3XU SRVH 3U RVSHU L W \

STEUBENVILLE — The Jefferson County Board of Elections is gearing up for the March 15 primary election. Diane Gribble, board of elections director, said the presidential primary brings out voters who may not have voted in the past several years. She said it is important for voters to remember it is a partisan primary, requiring the voter to choose which ballot — Democrat, Republican or Green Party — they will use to vote. “When they go into vote, they need to choose which party ballot they want to vote. Poll workers aren’t being nebby. The voters have to choose a party ballot,” she said. Some voters choose to only vote on an issue, requesting an issues-only ballot, but there are a limited amount of issues on the ballot and no countywide issue, Gribble said. Voters can choose an issues-only ballot in the Steubenville, Mingo Junction, Grant, New Somerset, Dillonvale, Smithfield, Bergholz, Georges Run, Rayland, Brilliant and Wells 1 and Wells 2 precincts. Daria Mackey, a board of elections employee, said voters choose their party affiliation during a partisan primary election. Mackey said there is a

misconception about an independent party. She said there is no independent party. Candidates can file as nonpartisan for a general election. Voters have until 9 p.m. on Feb. 16 to register to vote. Non-partisan candidates have until 4 p.m. on March 14 to file nominating petitions to be on the Nov. 8 general election ballot. Absentee voting will begin no earlier than Feb. 17. During this first week, it is recommended voters contact the board of elections at (740) 283-8522 prior to coming into the office to vote. Applications by mail for absentee ballots must be received by the county board of elections no later than noon on March 12. The board of elections will have the following extended hours for voting absentee: Feb. 17 through March 4, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.; March 5, 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.; March 7 through March 11, 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.; March 12, 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.; March 13, 1p.m. to 5 p.m.; and March 14, 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Gribble said all incounty absentee ballots must be postmarked with a date no later than March 14 or delivered in person to the board of elections office in the Towers, 500 Market St.,

MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

no later than 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. Gribble recommended voters ask the post office to hand cancel the envelope. There have been instances in Ohio where absentee ballot envelopes weren’t postmarked by the post office’s automated machines and weren’t counted in an election. Gribble said there is a misconception absentee ballots are only counted when a race is close. She said absentee ballots are counted first on election night and those results are posted in the first returns. Absentee ballots postmarked by March 14 and received after March 15 are counted with the vote certification, which is held about 10 days after the election. Provisional ballots cast on Election Day are first reviewed by the board of elections to see if the voter meets the qualifications. The qualified provisional ballots are counted during the vote certification. Gribble said voter turnout in the primary election having the presidential race usually isn’t that much higher than other elections. The

November general election for president usually has the highest voter turnout. “Shame on people for not taking advantage of voting. People have gone to war and died to guarantee our right to vote,” Mackey said. Gribble said the board of elections is desperately seeking poll workers, especially in outlying areas.

bad situation because we don’t have a lot of backup workers,” Gribble said. “Each election it is getting harder and harder. We have some very good poll workers who are very dedicated,” Mackey said. There will be a tempo-

Mackey noted the board of elections needs people who are willing to work on Election Day. “We want people who want to work the polls out of civic responsibility and not just work the polls for the money,” she said. Gribble said the board of elections appreciates workers who come back to the polls election after election. Poll worker training is scheduled for Feb. 24. Poll workers need to be registered voters. “If they make the commitment, they need to be there on Election Day. When someone commits and backs out at the last minute, it puts us in a

rary polling place change for this election only. Bloomingdale and Wayne precincts will move from the Unionport Volunteer Fire Department social hall at 3617 county Road 39, Bloomingdale, to the Wayne Township Community Center at 3281 county Road 39, Bloomingdale. Voters in the primary election will cast ballots for state representative for the 96th District, two county commissioner seats, prosecuting attorney, clerk of courts, sheriff, recorder, treasurer, engineer, coroner and county central committee for Democrats and Republicans.

Order Continued from Page 1B

begins at 10 a.m. every other Saturday at Holy Name Cathedral, at the corner of Fifth and Slack streets in Steubenville, and includes arts and crafts, packaged lunches and Bible lessons. On Fridays the sisters take pupils from Bishop John King Mussio Junior High School and have them assist servicing the poor, instilling the value of community service, Kessler continued. She added nuns also visit Serra Village in Weirton on a regular basis. “The facilities we visit are the nursing home and assisted living facility,” she said. “We do that weekly. We’re also involved at Franciscan University of Steubenville and the friars there.” “We have four sisters who are on campus,” said Sister Mary Catherine Kasuboski. The sisters also have a house in downtown Steubenville where they serve the needs of the poor, she added. In 2010, the Father of Mercy Chapel was built adjacent to the monastery.

“We wanted the local community to know what’s happened here in the past 20 years. ” The sisters do spend about five hours per day, praying for mankind. “Prayer is a big part of our life.” – Mother Mary Ann Kessler

“The chapel’s open to the public,” said Kessler. “We have Mass at 7:15 a.m. Mondays through Fridays. “We also have a Lenten retreat, with registration at 8:30 a.m. and continuing until 4 p.m. March 19,” she continued, adding the public is welcome to attend, and the retreat will include lunch. “The theme is ‘God of Mercy.’ Pope Francis has named 2016 as the Year of Mercy.” To register, call (740) 544-5542. The monastery also will be hosting an open house from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 21, Kessler said. “That’s open to anyone. It’s a family-friendly event,” said Kessler, adding lunch will be served and a Mass at 4 p.m. “We invite people to come out and have fun as a family.”

Beech Bottom strives for development, quality of life

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BEECH BOTTOM — With progress made in revitalizing a former industrial site and plans for a new transportation artery between the village and Ohio, Beech Bottom officials hope to attract other new businesses to the community while enhancing the quality of life there. “We really want to get the word out that we are open for business,” said Mayor Becky Uhlly. Uhlly said she and others have been working to bring a grocery store to the village and she also would like to see a gasoline station open, noting the many drivers who travel through Beech Bottom on state Route 2 each day. She said the planned new Ohio River bridge in an area just north of the village will bring many more through the Beech Bottom area. The village celebrated the 60th anniversary of its incorporation in 2013. Its roots can be traced to Robert Miller, an Irish nailmaker who established a farm on 900 acres now occupied by much of the vilStaff Photo lage. Community members gathered outside the Beech Bottom Municipal Building for a candlelight vigil following the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut in 2012. Behind them is one of two monuments to the Ruby Greathouse, curator for the Brooke village’s military veterans at the site, which has been the setting of Memorial Day services and other public events. County Museum and Culture Center, said its name has been attributed to George Washington, who passed through the area while traveling down the Ohio River in the 1700s See BEECH BOTTOM Page 4B ➪

Staff Photo

Improvements to the Beech Bottom Municipal Building has been an ongoing project, with solar panels installed on the roof to reduce heating costs, a handicap-accessible ramp added several years ago and the creation of a handicap-accessible unisex restroom in the works.

Staff Photo

Linda Dowell, bottom, and Glenda Haddon, both of Beech Bottom, tackle a hillside along state Route 2 during one of Beech Bottom’s community cleanups. The cleanups and the Beech Bottom Neighborhood Watch program’s participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program have earned the village the West Virginia Make It Shine award for seven consecutive years.

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Beech Bottom Continued from Page 3B

and noted the beech trees along its banks. Following Miller’s death, the land was purchased by WhitakerGlessner Co. to build a steel mill. The company later merged with two other companies to form Wheeling Steel and built homes and a general store nearby for its many employees. Founded in 1890 and at the center of the community for many years, the Wheeling Corrugating Plant specialized in the production of steel roofing, siding and decking. Changes in the steel industry led to the mill undergoing five changes in ownership. The last owner, RG Steel, filed for bankruptcy in 2012, bringing a permanent closure to the plant. But the 480,000-square-foot facility got a new lease on life when it was acquired by the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle in partnership with Hackman Capital Partners of Los Angeles. Recently renamed the Beech Bottom Industrial Park, it’s now occupied by several businesses, including a handful of natural gas-related companies and Jupiter Aluminum, a Schiller Park, Ill.-based firm that had intended to purchase equipment from the plant’s paint line but decided instead to move in. Through various channels, including social media, the BDC continues to seek additional tenants for the spacious building as well as 120 acres of developable land between it and the Ohio

River. Beech Bottom officials also hope to secure a small section of land along the Ohio River to create opportunities for fishing and boating. Uhlly noted a section of the Brooke County Pioneer Trail, which links the Wheeling Heritage Trail and Wellsburg’s Yankee Trail, brings many bicyclists through the community. She said the village is a pleasant place to live, with relatively little crime and because it is adjacent to Route 2, is a short distance from several larger cities. Uhlly said she and other village officials have worked to enhance the quality of life there. She said state grants and local contributions have allowed the village’s police and fire departments to secure up-to-date equipment. Uhlly noted volunteers in the village’s Community Neighborhood Watch have been involved not only in watching for criminal or suspicious activity but in collecting litter and debris at local parks and other public places during seasonal cleanups. The group’s efforts, which also include collecting litter along Route 2 as part of the state’s Adopt-A-Highway program, have helped the village to earn the West Virginia Make It Shine Award for seven consecutive years. Also helping the village to earn that honor was the establishment of recycling bins into which residents may deposit glass, plastic,

aluminum, paper and cardboard. Uhlly said a dilapidated building enforcement committee was formed recently to urge owners of deteriorating structures to take action. “It’s not that we want to pick on anyone, but such buildings affect the quality of life for their neighbors,” she said, adding the committee’s efforts have led to some repairs and legal action against one out-of-town prop-

accessible curbs. Improvements during the last several years to the village’s Third Street and Hill Street playgrounds have included installation of new equipment, expansion of a basket-

erty owner. Uhlly noted council also agreed to eliminate building permit fees for home improvements costing less than $5,000 as an incentive for homeowners. Improvements to the Beech Bottom Municipal Building have been an ongoing project, with solar panels installed on the roof to reduce heating costs, a handicap-accessible ramp added several years ago and the creation of a handicap-accessible unisex restroom in the works. Uhlly said she and others hope to install an elevator to the second floor, so the village council’s meeting place could be moved from the small water office. She said council also has secured state grants and allocated village funds to replace deteriorating sidewalks and add handicap-

ball court to full size and through the efforts of Brooke High School students, the addition of a picnic shelter. With the help of the Neighborhood Watch program, Beech Bottom officials hold a community picnic at the Third Street Playground each summer. Uhlly said she would like to revive the street carnival that once was held on the street. The mayor and council are among Beech Bottom Primary School’s Partners in Education, a term given to businesses and other groups that lend support to the school in various ways. Uhlly said when they learned of children at the school who needed clothing, they purchased underwear and socks, items not stocked by the school’s clothes closet, for the youth.

Discovery Jewelers: Quality service for nearly 30 years Locally owned and operated by Chip and Chris Warren, Discovery Jewelers has enjoyed success for almost three

decades in Wintersville. At Discovery, you have the best of both worlds. “We are a hometown, independently

owned and operated jeweler and as a member of the Independent Jewelers Organization, the largest buying group

in the world, we have our finger on the pulse of the jewelry industry, worldwide,” Chip Warren said. He also stated that they travel twice a year to meet with his fellow jewelers for intense networking and shopping jewelry manufacturers from around the world. He is getting ready for another diamond-buying trip to Antwerp in April, and taking orders before he goes. “Diamonds are my passion,” states Chip Warren. For more than 15 years, Chip has traveled to Antwerp, Belgium, the diamond capital of the world, to shop for loose diamonds. He states that he works as a private diamond broker for his customers. Chip’s connections in the diamond trade of Antwerp allow him access to trade in offices along with some of the pillars in the world diamond trade. With more than 40 years in the jewelry industry, any and all questions will be

“We have our finger on the pulse of the jewelry industry, worldwide.” – Chip Warren, owner of Discovery Jewelers

answered on how to find that perfect diamond at Discovery. Discovery Jewelers offers a wide variety of jewelry in unique styles that are as diverse as his customers. If it’s new, and different – you’ll find it at Discovery. ... rings, pendants, earrings, pearls all designed to give anyone that distinct style that will set them apart. Discovery Jewelers became a part of technology to assist customers in finding the perfect engagement ring with the introduction of the exclusive iPhone, Android and Facebook applications. These state-of-theart apps feature a selection of engagement rings and allow customers to browse through the unique styles from the convenience of their mobile device or

computer. No more sending low-quality pictures with a mobile phone to send to friends; each ring features a hi-def 3D image that can be rotated at a desired speed to view the ring from every angle. Customers can even view the ring on a human hand and change the metal from yellow to white gold to cater to any desired style. If customers can’t decide on one ring, they can choose a few and send to their friends and families to have them vote on their favorite ring. “Today’s bridal customers want everyone involved in the process of choosing a ring and they are used to sharing their every thought and memory in an instant on their mobile phone or their Facebook status. So why not combine the two to make searching for an engagement ring a fun and memorable experience for everyone,” said owner Chip Warren. “We hope these applications will help reach customers using the language they understand and use every day.” Chip Warren has a reputation in this area for being able to create jewelry of his customers’ desires. His advice, always from the heart, is to help people through the process with the end product being a gem to be cherished for generations. And coming this summer ... something new and different. Besides on Cadiz Road in Wintersville, they can found on Facebook and at www.DiscoveryJewelers.com.

ESTATE & FUNERAL PLANNING GUIDE Have Our Service in Your Home Town

Schuetz Funeral Home Full Service, Casket & Vault: $4,999 Viewing & Cremation: $3,199 Cremation & Urn: $1,195

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2016

Mingo Junction, OH 740-317-7282

All types of services for all types of people.

BLACKBURN Funeral Homes

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

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- 3 Locations -

Hopedale 324 High Street

Over 70 Years

740-937-2461

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3219 Main Street • Weirton

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740-768-2300 Over 25 Years

grecohertnick.com Funeral Director, John Greco

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740-946-3351

YOUR

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FUNERAL HOME

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304-387-1288

Alvin L. Arner III, F.D. Douglas A. Arner, F.D.

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Wellsburg & Follansbee, WV 304-737-3551 • 304-527-1717 www.chambersandjames.com Eric L. Fithyan, FD - Owner/L.I.C.

Established in 1900

“Offering low cost cremation services and now pet cremation services at our onsite crematory”.

“Your Home Town Florist Since 1875”

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Angels • Afghans • Designs for Sympathy Needs Susan Freshour, owner

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52 W. Main St., Richmond, OH

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Blaschalk Wilson Funeral Home

712 Third Street Brilliant, Ohio

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Dunlope-Shorac Funeral Home

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(740) 282-2717

215 Fernwood Rd., Wintersville, OH

(740) 264-0563

The Shorac Funeral Homes have been providing quality service to the people of the Ohio Valley for more than sixty-five years. We appreciate the privilege of serving serving your family at the most difficult times.

173 N. 4th St., Steubenville

740-282-4525 807 Franklin St., Toronto

740-537-1117

EVERHART-BOVE FUNERAL HOMES Funerals • Cremations Pre-Arranged Funerals

Daniel B. Bove, Jr. Funeral Director

Visit www.everhart-bovefuneralhomes.com 685 Canton Rd. Wintersville

264-5252

110 West Main St. Richmond

765-5252

285 Second St. Bergholz

768-2271

Since 1917

Over 95 Years of Service.

James Funeral Home marking 100 years of quality service

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Chambers and James Funeral, Pet and Cremation Services have led in progress. Progress came in many different directions and many different aspects when you talk about the funeral homes serving the funeral and cremation industry, said owner Eric Fithyan. The most notable progress came when the National Funeral Directors Association announced Chambers and James as West Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only Pursuit of Excellence winner, ranking them in the top percentage of funeral homes internationally. The award was based on the funeral homesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commitment to strict ethical and professional standards and outstanding service to the families they serve and the community as a whole. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This was an honor that we are very humbled to receive as staff members, and also on behalf of our communities,â&#x20AC;? said Fithyan. In addition to the award, the funeral homes have received numerous other honors, including proclamations from U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin III, D-W.Va., and West Virginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin acknowledging their progress and success. The readers of the Herald-Star and Weirton Daily Times have named them Best of the Best Funeral Home of the Ohio Valley. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These awards from the readers of our communitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; major newspapers resound in our minds and really make the staff feel wonderful. It is one thing to get thank you cards, but the readers actually took time to

MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Staff Photo

James Funeral Home has been meeting the funeral needs of Brooke County area residents for 100 years. Eric Fithyan, its present owner, has brought the funeral home into the 21st century, earning it and its sister funeral home, Chambers Funeral Home, many honors for its service to the community.

name us No. 1 and that thanks will never end,â&#x20AC;? Fithyan said. The funeral homes have evolved over the years to reflect new trends and unique services, such as cremation and pet services. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Funeral homes have made major changes over the years, and James Funeral Home is celebrating its 100 years of service this year,â&#x20AC;? he said. Opened in 1916 by John T. James and Lydia â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ellaâ&#x20AC;? Johnson James, it was Follansbeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first funeral home. The Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; families were immigrants from Wales who started making furniture and caskets just north of the present Cedar Lodge. In the early 1920s, the family saw a need for a larger facility and moved to 756 Main St., near the present

site of Alco Furniture. Finally in the mid-1930s, the home of the superintendent of Follansbee Steel at 1245 Main St. was purchased and remains the funeral homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location. Ownership changed through the years to local families dedicated to service, including Judson and Norma Garner in 1939 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; who managed the funeral home with the help of Wirt Davis and Clyde Walnohas. Later it was acquired by Fred and Floyd Chambers, owners of Chambers Funeral Home in Wellsburg, who carried on that tradition. The Chambers family expanded the funeral home, creating four large viewing rooms and making numerous other upgrades. The funeral homesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; progress and service to the

Contributed

In its 100th year of service to the community, James Funeral Home has undergone many changes. Pictured is a vehicle used by the James family who founded the longtime business.

community continues today under Eric Fithyan, a young professional who acquired both in late 2011. Fithyan said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was honored to have the Chambersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; family select me as the fourth owner of the historic James Funeral Home and their Chambers Funeral Home of Wellsburg. It has always been my dream to work and live in the communities that I have called home.â&#x20AC;? Under Fithyansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; direction, James Funeral Home has made progress with numerous awards, building upgrades and the red carpet service training of his staff. Numerous people drive by the funeral home in Follansbee and see the progress made through it historical roots. Chambers and James Funeral Homes have adapted to the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changing

needs, including a growing number of families selecting cremation, as an exclusive provider of Cremation with Care; veterans and family memorial care. As remembrance planners, Fithyan and his staff understand the complex nature of each service and are able to make each a unique celebration of the deceasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. Fithyan said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am proud of the way we serve our community through our unique service of exclusive providers, and also the way we give back to the community that gives so much to us, from Operation Valentine to Sweaters to Veterans (projects supporting veterans) to the proper retirement of U.S. flags. We are proud and honored to say, we have made progress and for that our communities are a better place.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are proud to provided high-quality, affordable coal supplies to our electric utility customers, and to provide over 7,000 high SD\LQJ ZHOO EHQHĂ&#x20AC;WHG MREV QDWLRQZLGH Âľ Robert E. Murray Chairman, President, and &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHU

Murray Energy Corporation 46226 National Road St. Clairsville, Ohio 43950 740-338-3100 info@coalsource.com www.murrayenergycorp.com

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Celebrating its 80th year

Weirton chamber sees continued growth for the area

WEIRTON — This is a milestone year for the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce, which, despite some challenges in recent years, continues to see a great deal of growth in the TriState Area. “We’re 80 years in, and still going strong,” Chamber President Brenda Mull said. “There is a lot happening in our area.” The recent relocation and expansion of Hancock County Auto in Newell, as well as the upcoming growth of Barney’s Bakery at its new location on Three Springs Drive, are just a taste of what has been going on in the area in the last year. Mull also noted the expected opening of a Dairy Queen in Weirton, and said she has been told the Plaza Theater will reopen in the spring following a year of renovations. A new development, currently under way near the former Wal-Mart location on Three Springs Drive, is expected to provide for several new business opportunities in the community. “I think it’s going to be huge,” Chamber Board Chair Richard Saxon noted. In addition, there is continuing growth at the Villages at Colliers Way, which has seen the opening of several new businesses in the last few years — including Spicy Gringo’s and a treatment center operated by Northwood Health Systems — and the expansion of services in and around Weirton from Weirton Medical Center, which now has operations in the Northern Panhandle and

“We’re 80 years in, and still going Weirton, the High Business strong. There is a lot happening in our School Symposium, Ladies area.” Day at the Chamber – Brenda Mull, Weirton Chamber of Commerce president

areas of Ohio and Pennsylvania. “Their footprint is growing,” Saxon said. “They’re doing a lot.” Saxon also noted a diversification effort at Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack and Resort, which he said is doing more to attract entertainment opportunities, as well as conferences and other events. Some smaller, locally owned businesses — both new and old — also have experienced growth as they find ways to offer unique products or even reinvent themselves, such as the Weirton Book Co., which recently introduced lines of ice cream and shaved ice, along with its books and established candy, candles and gift card products. Mull also pointed to Savvy Divas, Serendipity Boutique and JJones Evening Wear, which bring nationally known designer fashion to the area, and the new La Cucina restaurant, providing fresh, homemade Italian cuisine. Saxon pointed that growth for any area business is good for the entire community, attracting new patrons who then visit other local establishments. “The businesses we have in the community really feed off each other,” Saxon said. The chamber itself has experienced growth of its own, with Mull noting 51 new members in 2015, and some

new programs such as Hog Wild in the Hollow and plans for an inaugural golf tournament July 25 to assist in continuing efforts to enhance the community Christmas light program. These join annual programs such as Leadership Weirton, Youth Leadership

and the annual Chamber Membership Banquet. The Weirton Chamber continues to monitor all levels of government in the event any decision may affect the local business community. Mull cited Weirton’s Business and Occupation Tax as an area the chamber fought, saying they have some hope that tax will eventually be

reduced or eliminated with the new 1 percent sales tax being implemented later this year. “We stay in communication with the state chamber so that we can keep our businesses informed,” Mull said. “Contrary to what some might believe, we do not always agree with

the federal and state chambers’ decisions on some matters. We respectfully try to follow their lead, but sometimes the decisions they make are not always what is best for the businesses here in the Ohio Valley, and these are the businesses we represent and look out for.”

“Business and professional people working together to make your community a better place for everyone to live and work.”

GROWING STRONG BRENDA MULL AMBER NEST STEPHANIE O’BRIEN President

Office Manager

Member Services

3174 Penna. Ave. Suite 1 • Weirton, WV 26062

Phone: 304-748-7212 Fax: 304-748-0241 www.weirtonchamber.com info@weirtonchamber.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

Ohio Valley Business & Service

Directory Paul Babela, Assistant Vice President of Lending NMLS#1072303

298 Union Street phone (740) 769-2377 ext. 206 P.O. Box 217 fax (740) 769-2686 Mt. Pleasant, Ohio 43939 www.peoplesbmp.com

email pdb@peoplesntionalbankonline.com

Imperial Agway

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED Pet Food, Wild Bird Food, Lawn & Garden and Feed Supplier 400 Main Street, Imperial, PA

724-695-7388 www.imperialagway.com

Stephen Spurlock 331 Main Street, Wintersville, OH

740-264-5729 HOURS: 9AM-5PM

1-800-LASHLEY

Contracting Co., Inc. Your Full Service Financial Institution With Eight Convenient Offices Located in the Ohio Valley We Have All You Need To Succeed! 1-800-427-4835 www.firstchoiceamericacu.org

Federally Insured by NCUA. Membership Eligibility Required.

Crane Service • Machinery Moving Barge Loading & Unloading

L&J BOWERS, Inc River Terminal/Ohio River Mile 65.5 Main Office 324 Two Ridge Road, Wintersville, Ohio 43953

740-264-7731 Fax 740-264-7737

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Pytash Tractor: Quality sales and service since 1973

Contributed

Pytash Tractor Sales and Service in Toronto carries a variety of brand name equipment with financing options available. Kubota’s top-selling Z122E Kommander zero-turn lawn mower offers commercial-grade performance that’s easy to use and easy to own, according to owner Tom Pytash.

TORONTO — Pytash Tractor Sales and Service is a lawn and garden equipment and ATV dealer that only handles the best products in the industry, according to owner Tom Pytash.

As a Polaris Star Dealer, Pytash carries the Polaris line of ATVs and Rangers. Customers also can find Kubota tractors and equipment with financing as low as 0 percent

available. Pytash keeps a number of recognizable brand names in stock, including Honda power equipment; Toro landscape and commercial equipment; STIHL chain-

saws, trimmers, blowers, cut-off saw; and more at the store. They boast one of the largest selections of zero-turn tractors in the area and carry Gravely tractors and equip-

g n i n i D Directory

“Your Tropical Dining and Meeting Place” ARE YOU TOO BUSY TO COOK? TRY OUR CASABLAN CA ROOM

CALL OUR RIBLINE: 748-1150 Store Hours Daily 11 AM - 11 PM & Sunday Noon - 10 PM

380 Three Springs Drive Weirton, WV 26062

TRY OUR

MEALS TO GO

(DRIVE THRU WINDOW)

Also Try Our -

• Daily Lunch Specials • Philly Cheese Steak • Specialty Salads • 8oz Burgers • Ribs - Steaks - Seafood - BBQ Wings • Gift Cards Available

GIOVANNI’S

GRANATO’S Imported Foods & Deli • Sliced Meat/Cheese Trays • Hoagies • Veggie Trays • Party Snacks 1610 Pennsylvania Ave., Weirton, WV

304- 748-7797 LARGE ONE TOPPING FOR $10

“A TASTE of Italy”

GIOVANNI ROSSI Owner, Operator

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE SPAGHETTI DINNER WITH SALAD 3013 Pennsylvania Ave., Weirton

304-224-1513 • • • •

Pasta Salads Steaks And More

4052 Washington Street, Weirton, WV

304-797-7272

DOWNTOWN BAKERY “You Can Taste The Difference.”

3810 Main St., Weirton, WV

151 S. 4th St., Steubenville

304-748-1179

PHONE 283-1138

The Original Steve’s Fish and Chips

Colerain IGA

We specialize in Freshly Breaded Fish and Shrimp. Carry out orders and delivery only. 233 South 4th Street, Steubenville, Ohio 43952

(740) 282-3261

740-635-3770

Full Service Bakery & Deli

* Weekly Specials! * 72690 US Rt. 250, Colerain

HOURS: Mon-Sat 7am - 9pm; Sun 8am - 6pm

ment. “Kubota tractors are our most popular item,” Pytash said. “We offer the best service around.” Zero-turn mowers have been growing in popularity because they’re easy to handle, highly maneuverable and precise when cutting closely around obstacles like landscaping, saving effort on weed whacking later. Pytash also offers used equipment and repair services. A family-ownedand-operated business since 1973, Pytash Tractor Sales has been voted the No. 1 ATV/Tractor dealer in the region numerous times in local media, he noted. The business was founded by Tom’s parents, Frank and Delores Pytash, and has stayed in the family since. Tom’s sisters, Cheri and Pat, continue to help out with the business today, alongside about 10 experienced employees. Also, in 2015, Kubota Tractor Corp. honored Pytash Tractor with Kubota’s Premier Award of Excellence as part of the company’s dealership certification program. The certification program was created by Kubota’s senior leadership

team in conjunction with its National Dealer Advisory Board to recognize dealers around the country that are providing customers with the “ultimate Kubota experience” from top quality equipment, to sales and financing, customer satisfaction and best-in-class service. “Whether it is landscapers, contractors or large property owners, today’s customers expect equipment dealers to be top-notch, full-service partners. Kubota’s Award of Excellence program recognizes dealers that are already there, meeting and exceeding customers’ expectations,” says Todd Stucke, vice president, sales, marketing and product support for Kubota. “Simply put, they are our very best, and they’ve set the bar high. For that, we thank and applaud them.” Unique to Kubota’s Award of Excellence program is its designation criteria. The advisory board and Kubota worked together to narrow down the criteria to core elements related to customer sales and service support excellence, that are See PYTASH Page 11B Á

Droverʼs Inn offers a modern menu in an historic setting

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

WELLSBURG — In its 30th year, Drover’s Inn continues to offer a diverse menu with tasty, modern entrees in a cozy, historic setting. The restaurant is at 1001 Washington Pike (state Route 27), a few miles from state Route 2 in Wellsburg. Owned by Mark Cooper, the restaurant includes three separate dining areas on the first floor; two private dining areas, each with seating for up to 16, on the second floor; and expanded the kitchen to increase its efficiency. They have added smoked beef brisket, pulled pork, salmon and baby back ribs to the menu. Drover’s Inn is best known among Brooke County and Western Pennsylvania residents for its variety of wings — buffalo garlic, honey barbecue, sweet and hot oriental, mild, medium, hot, suicidal, atomic, hurt me and a recent addition, butter garlic — all also available with cajun flavoring. It also offers broasted half-chicken and breaded fantail shrimp, orange roughy or New York strip steak dinners; assorted sandwiches and salads; and several desserts, including homemade fruit cobbler with ice cream, chocolate cobbler, turtle cheesecake and Milky Way silk pie. Its variety of appetizers includes chicken fingers, beer-battered shrimp, jalapeno “bottle caps,” breaded zucchini sticks, deep fried pickles and fried cheese ravioli. The tavern at Drover’s Inn may remind patrons of the pubs of old England seen in movies. On the National

Contributed

Drover’s Inn’s blue room, left, seats 32 and includes a fireplace and display of colored glassware, while the inn’s red room seats 36 and includes a fireplace.

Register of Historic Places, Drover’s Inn was built in 1848 as a resting place for drovers herding livestock along the Washington-Wellsburg turnpike when West Virginia was still a part of Virginia. Antique furniture and colorful glasswork displayed there are reminders of its historic roots. The restaurant itself has four dining areas: The blue room, which seats 32 people; the red room, which seats 36; the sitting room, which seats 14; and the back dining area, which seats 36 and includes two televisions and a fully stocked service bar. The blue room and the red room have fireplaces. Over the years Drover’s Inn has been a meeting place for various groups and has helped families to celebrate various occasions, including holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and weddings (for See DROVER’S Page 11B

Drover’s Inn on state Route 27 near Wellsburg is known for its assortment of wings, smoked and broiled entrees and cozy atmosphere, including separate dining areas and an English-style tavern downstairs.

HEALTH GUIDE

2016

Leg Pain - Fatigue - Swelling - Infection - Ulcers

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Senior Living Community

A Caring Environment That Offers Comfort, Security & Fellowship 100 Wyngate Dr., Weirton, WV 26062

Call For A Tour (304) 723-7004

Contributed

DAVE PETRAS MASSAGE

129 Reichart Ave. Wintersville, Ohio

(740) 381-6424 PATRICK H. MACEDONIA, M.D. One Ross Park, Ste. 101 Steubenville, OH 43952

740-283-3993 www.DrPatMD.net

Specializing in Non-Invasive Aesthetic Procedures including:

BOTOX, Facial Fillers, Micro Laser Peels, Facial Rejuvenation, Microdermabrasion, Laser Hair Removal, Laser Vein Removal, OBAGI Skincare, Latisse, Smartlipo Fat Reduction, Skin Tightening

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CONTINUING Healthcare Solutions Michelle Bowman

Director of Admission / Marketing

phone 740.264.5245 • fax 740.264.5284 mbowman@continuinghc.com

Sienna Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

250 Cadiz Road, Wintersville, OH ContinuingHC.com

352*5( 66

Hancock County Savings: Maintaining its role as ʻthe community bankʼ since 1899

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10B

Hancock County Savings Bank, FSB, opened its doors in 1899 as a mortgage lending company, dedicated to fulfilling the American dream of home ownership. In 2016, after 117 years of serving the community and helping customers to buy, build or refinance their own homes, Hancock County Savings Bank still maintains its role as “the community bank.” The bank has worked hard to earn and maintain the trust of its customers and is proud of its sound,

secure and stable business philosophy. In addition to its mortgage loan products, Hancock County Savings Bank offers a convenient construction loan, which is a perfect solution for anyone who is planning to build a home. With fixed rates, no points, low closing costs, and four construction loan options, this loan is an attractive solution to a customer’s mortgage needs. Bank President and CEO

MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

Catherine Ferrari stated, “Since we do not sell our loans, customers know and can be reassured that we will be here to assist them for many years. We believe that ‘trust is earned,’ and we take that responsibility very seriously.” Besides offering a wide range of mortgage and consumer lending, savings and checking services, Hancock County Savings Bank and its employees, collectively and individually, support the area com-

munities through their involvement with area schools and charitable and community groups. Their Charitable Foundation supports the needs of local groups and charities through a formal grant program, with total contributions over the past 16 years of more than $650,000. Grant applications are available on the bank’s website or at any bank office. The 2016 applications must be submitted by Sept. 30, with the award

ceremony scheduled by December 2016. Ferrari stated, “We are dedicated to fulfilling the dream of home ownership, providing a fair return on deposits and making our community a better place to live. We work hard to contribute to a better community and take great pride in this commitment. We are not just located in this community, we are a part of it, and we want to be part of the reason that it continues to grow and prosper.”

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MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2016

11B

Mark J. Miller

Foster Funeral Home ready to serve Jeff and Jay Foster of J.E. Foster’s Funeral Home Inc., with locations at 701 Findley St., Toronto, and 107 Hill St., Smithfield, are ready to serve families in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Foster’s can be reached by calling (740) 5373900. For information, go to www.jefosterfh.com.

Pytash Continued from Page 8B

the most critical for longevity, segment growth and overall business success. In order to be recognized with a Kubota Premier Award of Excellence a dealership must meet all requirements and achieve at least an 80 percent compliance percentage of all the core elements. “This is the inaugural year of Kubota’s Award of Excellence program and it is already setting a high standard that will pave the way for

Drover’s Continued from Page 9B

rehearsals and small receptions). Cooper said the restaurant makes a romantic setting for Valentines Day dates. For the warmer months it offers a picnic shelter for those who want to take their gatherings outside. Cooper said the restaurant often is visited by patrons of nearby golf courses and Brooke Hills Park. Drover’s Inn is open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and noon to 7 p.m. Sundays. It’s available to groups of 20 or more on Monday and Tuesday evenings and for lunch on any day, Cooper said. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling (304) 737-0188, but walk-ins are welcome. For a full menu and other information, visit the restaurant’s site at www.droversinn1848. com.

sustained growth and market segment leadership,” Ray Villarreal, Kubota director of dealer development, adds. Pytash Tractor Sales and Service is at 8003 state Route 213 in Toronto, about 8 miles north of Steubenville. It’s open Mondays

through Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays. Contact the expert staff at Pytash Tractor Sales and Service by phone at (740) 544-5620 or visit PytashTractorSales.com for more information about their products.