South Hills Mon Valley June 2024

City Mission Hosts Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Women’s Shelter

Page 8

‘Mutt March’ Held on Main Street in Monongahela

Page 10

Thomas Jefferson HS Students Earn Second

Consecutive Allegheny County Envirothon Title

Thomas Jefferson High School students won first place at the Allegheny County Envirothon on April 26, 2024, and will compete in the statewide environmental competition in Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania.

Allegheny County Conservation District (ACCD) hosted 135 high school students representing 11 school districts at the annual competition at North Park. The winning team includes Reagan Sanderson, Lukeman El-Hajj, Hunter Houk, Kamryn Mull and Connor McCann. Thomas Jefferson teachers Dan Giger and Brian McClain are the advisors.

Every winning student received a scholarship for academic pursuits following high school funded with support from event sponsors.

"When students participate in Envirothon, they elevate their career readiness, gain valuable professional experience before graduating and are empowered to become action-oriented citizens," said Hayly Hoch Natural Resource Outreach Educator. "The Allegheny County Envirothon is only possible with the contributions of our sponsors who made this experience memorable for 135 outstanding students."

Envirothon is the largest environmental education competition in North America aimed at engaging local youth in natural resource conservation learning and stewardship challenges. This hands-on academic competition requires months of study and teamwork on five subject areas: soils/land use, wildlife, aquatic ecology, forestry and current issues.

Envirothon provides exposure to environmental career pathways through partnerships with the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission, Pa. Game Commission and the Allegheny County Parks Department.

“Today’s participating youth go on to become tomorrow’s leaders. Our aim is to move students beyond classroom learning and motivate them to meet the environmental challenges of the future. We encourage them to continue learning, take action in their own communities and pursue further education in environmental fields,” said Executive Director Heather Manzo.

Family Fun Night Event Being Held in Elizabeth on June 21

Are you ready for a night of fun for the whole family? Saints Joachim and Anne Parish will be hosting ‘Family Fun Night’ on Friday, June 21 from 5:00PM – 9:00PM. The event will be held at St. Michael Church, located at 101 McLay Drive in Elizabeth. Featured Food Trucks at the event will be Kona Ice, Hot Dawgs, and La Palapa, and there will also be Funnel Cakes, Popcorn, and Cotton Candy!Live Entertainment by Hillbilly Gravy, a local band, made up of undergrad and grad music students from Duquesne. They feature a mix of country bluegrass, funk, and rock. Guests will also enjoy Game Booths, featuring a wristband area - pay once, then play all night long! There will also be a Classic Car Cruise! E-mail Emily at youth@joachimandannediopitt.org for car cruise registration information. Plus, don’t miss our world famous Pittsburgh Cookie Table, raffle baskets and so much more!

Pictured is TJ's winning team, including advisors (PHOTO COURTESY ACCD)

PLACES to GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO

JUNE 1

CLOTHING, RUMMAGE AND BAKE SALE - The Olive Branch Baptist will hold a Clothing, Rummage and Bake Sale on Saturday, June 1 from 8:00AM to 2:00PM. The church is located at 296 St. Road 981 in Rostraver Twp. You can drop off, clean laundered used clothing to help with their fundraising by placing them in a plastic bag and leaving them on the porch at the rear of the building. Profits from fundraising by this group are used to help people in all kinds of need.

JUNE 2

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL - On Sunday, June 2, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Calvin United Presbyterian Church (307 Spring Street,

Brownsville) will be holding their annual Strawberry Festival. Included on the menu will be chicken salad croissants, ham BBQ sandwiches, strawberry smoothies, strawberries with shortcake/waffles and drinks. The public is invited to this church fundraiser!

JUNE 2 - 3

KITTEN SHOWER & ADOPTION

- Mon Valley Paws is holding an annual ‘Kitten Shower” and adoption event at Twin Lakes Park 219 Twin Lakes Rd. in Latrobe, Pa. For more information call 724-708-4196. June 24 Steel Plate Food Day to be held at the Steel Plate Restaurant 321 Schoonmaker Ave. Monessen, Pa. We will have a basket auction. For more information call 724-493-8305.

JUNE 5

FREE COMMUNITY PICNIC -

California United Methodist Church will be celebrating California Borough's 175th anniversary with a Free Picnic Community Dinner on Wednesday, June 5, at 6:00PM, at the Hollywood Pavilion, at 313 Third Street, California, PA. The pavilion is one block to the left of the church. Please bring a covered dish to share. Hot dogs will be provided by California United Methodist Church and drinks, by Key Bank. The dinner will be followed by a walking tour of historical sites downtown.

JUNE 6

GIANT OAKS GARDEN CLUB -

Monthly meeting, Thursday, June 6, 11:15, at St. David’s, 905 McMurray

Road. The program will begin at 1:00PM. The speaker this month is our own Bernie Katsur will offer a workshop to make a live “Mug” floral arrangement. Observers are welcome to watch, learn and have lunch. Register by calling Donna at 724470-6170. The luncheon fee is $6.

JUNE 7 - 8

ANNUAL FLEA MARKET AND BAKE SALE

- The First Presbyterian Church of Belle Vernon, Pa. located at 501 Fayette St. The church will be holding its annual flea market and bake sale on Friday and Saturday June 7-8 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The church kitchen will also be open with baked goods, snacks and lunch items Donations of items are being accepted. For more information call 724-929-7616.

JUNE 8

BOOK AND JEWELRY SALE -

The West Newton Public Library will hold a book and jewelry sale on June 8 in conjunction with the West Newton town wide Yard Sales. The event will be held from 8:00AM to 2:00PM in the parking lot of the library, located at 124 N. Water Street, West Newton. The rain date will be June 15. Large selection of hardcover, paperback, children’s, biography, non fiction, DVD's, audio tapes and free magazines. Fill TWO BAGS for just $5. Call 724-633-0798 for more information.

JUNE 8

HISTORY OF PRESIDENTIAL MARKETING CAMPAIGNS - The Monessen Public Library will host guest speaker, Steve Mihaly on Saturday June 8 at 12:00 noon where he will give a presentation entitled “Marketing The Presidency - 125 Years of Presidential Artifacts.” During the presentation, Steve will take the audience on a visual tour of interesting, and sometimes odd, items presidential campaigns have produced to entice folks to vote for them. For instance, the audience will see items such as William McKinley “Soap Baby Dolls,” Teddy Roosevelt “Big Sticks,” Franklin Roosevelt “Glow In The Dark Stove Pot Covers,” Dwight Eisenhower “IKE” sugar cubes distributed at restaurants, and a Richard Nixon shower head where the water comes streaming from his mouth! These are just a few of the 200 or so items that will be shown from his personal collection. There is no charge for attending and it is first come first seated. The Monessen Public Library is located at 326 Donner Ave, in Monessen, PA 15062. Call with any questions at 724-684-4750.

JUNE 8

WEST NEWTON COMMUNITY YARD SALES - June 8 2024. Sponsored by Community Redevelopment of West Newton CROWN. Contact to register at CROWN15089@yahoo.com

JUNE 8

BOOK AND JEWELRY SALE -

The West Newton Public Library will hold a book and jewelry sale on June 8 in conjunction with the West Newton town wide Yard Sales. (Our rain date will be June 15.) It will be in the parking lot of the library 124 N Water ST West Newton from 8am to 2pm. Our storage shed is bursting at the seams with books, hardcover, paperback, childrens biography, non fiction dvd's, audio tapes and free magazines. Fill TWO Bags for $5. 724-633-0798 for more information

JUNE 9

OFFICER DALE T. PROVINS, JR.

MEMORIAL BLOOD DRIVE -

10:00AM – 4:00PM at the Jefferson Hills Police Department at 925 Old Clairton Road, Clairton, PA.

JUNE 10

BLOOD DRIVE - The Bible Chapel - Rostraver Campus is hosting a blood drive on Monday, June 10 from 11:30am to 5:00 pm at 203 Johnson Ave. Belle Vernon, PA in the church gym. Call 1-800-Red Cross or visit RedCrossBoold.org and enter Belle Vernon to schedule an appointment.

JUNE

11

THE CLOTHES 4 U MINISTRY -

First United Methodist Church, 200 State Street, Belle Vernon will be open to the public on Tuesday June 11th and 25th from 9a,m, to 12 noon. Our summer clothes are out and ready to take. All donations of clean gently used clothing are accepted. Thank you for helping us help the people of the Mon Valley. Our clothes are strictly donations in and donations out, We do not charge.

PLACES

JUNE 11

GO THINGS to SEE STUFF to DO

SOUTH HILLS COIN CLUB

MEETING - Tuesday evening June 11, at 7:30 PM at the Bethel Park municipal building located at 5100 West Library Ave. in Bethel Park, Pa. All members and the general public are invited. This month's program will be on the history of the silver dollar. A 50/50 will be offered and children's prizes to be awarded. Applications are now being accepted for membership. For more information call 724-984-6611.

JUNE 15

FUN FEST - Thomas Presbyterian Church, located at 1068 Linden Road in Eighty-Four, will hold their ‘Fun Fest’ event on Saturday, June 15 from 9:00AM – 7:00PM. We have multiple activities going on that day. There will be a six-team baseball tournament starting at 9:00 AM. We are also going to have craft booths and Food trucks. Take a break from cooking and come on down.

JUNE 15

VENDOR & CRAFT SHOW -

Saturday June 15, 2024. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit The Autism Caring Center. Many vendors and lunch will be available.

Mingo Presbyterian Church 561 Mingo Church Rd. Finleyville, Pa. 15332

JUNE 17

ROSTRAVER SPORTSMEN

MEETING - Rostraver Sportsmen

and Conservation Association located at 539 Cedar Creek Rd. in Belle Vernon, Pa. will hold their monthly meeting on Monday June 17. 2024 at 7:30 PM. All members are encouraged to attend. Applications for membership are now being accepted from both men and women. For more information call 724-984-6611. rostraver sportsmen @gmail.com

JUNE 20

UNITED STATES FRACTIONAL CURRENCY - The monthly meeting of the Mon Valley Coin Club will take place at 7:00PM on Thursday June 20 at VFW Post 1409, 793 E. Main St., Monongahela. All members and the public are invited to attend. Discussion will be held on "United States Fractional Currency". A 50/50 will be offered and children's prizes will be awarded. Applications for membership are being accepted. For Additional information, call 724-503-8455 or 724-972-8464

JUNE 20

BLOOD DRIVE -The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive Thursday, June 20, 2024, from noon till 5:00 p.m. at the St. Mary's Hall (118 Church Street, Brownsville) which is adjacent to the parish office of the Historic Church of St. Peter and St. Cecilia. Appointments can be scheduled at 1-800-733-2767.

JUNE 21

FAMILY FUN NIGHT - Saints

Joachim and Anne Parish will be hosting ‘Family Fun Night’ on Friday, June 21 from 5:00PM –9:00PM. The event will be held at St. Michael Church, located at 101 McLay Drive in Elizabeth. Featured Food Trucks at the event will be Kona Ice, Hot Dawgs, and La Palapa, and there will also be Funnel Cakes, Popcorn, and Cotton Candy! Live Entertainment by Hillbilly Gravy, a local band, made up of undergrad and grad music students from Duquesne. They feature a mix of country bluegrass, funk, and rock. Guests will also enjoy Game Booths, featuring a wristband areapay once, then play all night long! There will also be a Classic Car Cruise! E-mail Emily at youth@joachimandannediopitt.org for car cruise registration information. Plus, don’t miss our world famous Pittsburgh Cookie Table, raffle baskets and so much more!

JUNE 22

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS -

The First Presbyterian Church of Belle Vernon, Pa. located at 501 Fayette St. will hold their annual blessing of the animals on Saturday June 22, at 10:00 AM. Donations will be accepted for the benefit of Mon Valley Paws. For more information call 724-929-7616.

JUNE 25

THE CLOTHES 4 U MINISTRY -

First United Methodist Church, 200 State Street, Belle Vernon will be open to the public on Tuesday June

25th from 9a,m, to 12 noon. Our summer clothes are out and ready to take. All donations of clean gently used clothing are accepted. Thank you for helping us help the people of the Mon Valley. Our clothes are strictly donations in and donations out, We do not charge.

JUNE 26

PREHISTORIC MONONGAHELA INDIAN VILLAGES -

Archeologist Bob Oshnock, will give a presentation “Monongahela Indian Village,” at 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 26 in the Community Rooms of the Jefferson Hills Borough Building. All in attendance are sure to discover many interesting and perhaps unexpected details about some of the first people who lived in Western Pennsylvania.

JUNE 26

SUMMER READING PROGRAM - The Belle Vernon Public Library will kick off their ‘Summer Reading in the Park’ program on Wednesday, June 26 at 11:00AM by presenting Magician Steve Haberman and his "Adventure Begins at Your Library." The program will be presented at the pavilion at Community Bank Park in North Belle Vernon. All communities are welcome. Attendees may want to bring a blanket or pillow to sit on. The library will host programs weekly in July on Wednesdays at 11:00AM. For more info, call the library at 724-929-6642.

Monessen Library Presentation on History of Presidential Marketing Campaigns

The Monessen Public Library will host guest speaker, Steve Mihaly on Saturday June 8 at 12:00 noon where he will give a presentation entitled “Marketing The Presidency - 125 Years of Presidential Artifacts.”

During the presentation, Steve will take the audience on a visual tour of interesting, and sometimes odd, items presidential campaigns have produced to entice folks to vote for them. For instance, the audience will see items such as William McKinley “Soap Baby Dolls,” Teddy Roosevelt “Big Sticks,” Franklin Roosevelt “Glow In The Dark Stove Pot Covers,” Dwight Eisenhower “IKE” sugar cubes distributed at restaurants, and a Richard Nixon shower head where the water comes streaming from his mouth! These are just a few of the 200 or so items that will be shown from his personal collection.

The presentation itself is not ‘political’ in nature, but more historical, with lots of laughs about the items, sprinkled in with some amusing stories about our past presidents. Audience members will enjoy it because it mixes history with fun and entertainment. There is no charge for attending and it is first come first seated. The Monessen Public Library is located at 326 Donner Ave, in Monessen, PA 15062. Call with any questions at 724-684-4750.

Crossroads Ministries Offering Free MEGA Sports Camp

Hey parents! Are you ready to drop a TON OF FUN right into your child’s summer?

Then the free MEGA Sports Camp is right for you!

Crossroads Ministries in Finleyville is offering kids aged 4 yrs. (and potty-trained) through 6th grade an awesome time in the middle of July! At the MEGA Sports Camp, kids will get to choose from several different sports and activities. Between sessions, kids will also enjoy upbeat rallies filled with energetic music, inspiring sports stories, and Bible stories to help character-building themes take hold in kids’ hearts. And most importantly, kids will discover God’s great love for them.

Come and Blaze a Trail at Crossroads Ministries’ MEGA Sports Camp, held July 8 – 12, every day from 9:00AM until 12:00 noon. Ready to sign up? Visit www.crsmin.com for more information and to complete a FREE registration form for your child(ren) today! Early registrants receive a FREE t-shirt and bag!

“A Beacon of Hope” City Mission Hosts Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Women’s Shelter

On Thursday, May 23 at 10am, City Mission held a private groundbreaking ceremony to showcase their plans to build a new 50-bed shelter for homeless women, helping to fulfill an urgent need in our community.

According to Dr. Sally Mounts, City Mission’s Chief Development Officer, “City Mission is forced to turn away an average of almost 60 women each month “due to limited capacity.”

“We have to turn away women each day, and this shelter will mean being able to say yes – less referrals and more opportunities to serve,” added Leah Dietrich, City Mission’s Director of Residential Programs. “This new space will be a beacon of hope and a place of healing and restoration. Lives will be changed, and the women will have a chance to start again.”

Construction of the facility, which will be erected within City Mission’s current campus in Washington, begins in late May and is expected to take a little over a year to complete. With a projected cost of 7.1 million dollars, it will house: childcare space, a family sleeping unit, individual sleeping units, and common areas -- including a living room.

“It is going to be a state-of-the-art facility,” according to Diana Irey Vaughan, President/CEO of City Mission. She added, “I’m very grateful for the individuals who have opened their hearts to provide the

necessary funding to care for homeless women in need.”

City Mission, a Christ-centered homeless shelter, has already raised $6.1 million through the generous support of the community in the form foundations, churches, personal and corporate contributions, and the local LSA funding, which was awarded in March.

“On behalf of the City Mission Steering Committee, we want to sincerely thank the various banks, foundations, companies and the many individuals who have made it possible to pay-off the City Mission's long-term debt and break ground for this much needed facility for homeless women here in Southwestern Pennsylvania,” said Walt Turner, a City Mission Board of Directors member and the Chairman of the Hope for Homeless Women Steering Committee.

The building of this new Women’s Shelter is truly a long-awaited dream come true for the Mission. “Back in 2012,” said City Mission’s President Emeritus, Dean Gartland, “we decided to embark on a journey to improve our facilities, expand our services, and build two new shelters: a shelter for homeless veterans and one for homeless single women. Over the past 12 years we have witnessed most of this vision being fulfilled. The remaining part of this vision is the new shelter for single women and to see this now

coming into view creates such a great sense of accomplishment. This is God at work and we are privileged to be a part of it.”

Roughly $1 million of funding is still needed for this vital project. A public campaign is currently underway to promote community support. Naming rights to sections of the building are still available. For more information on how you can support this effort, visit www.citymission.org/ hope or contact Dr. Sally Mounts at smounts@citymission.org or 724-7057122.

About City Mission: For over 83

years, City Mission in Washington, PA, has sheltered, healed, and restored the homeless to independent living— without discrimination. City Mission’s comprehensive program addresses both short-term needs like food and shelter, and long-term needs, including drug and alcohol counseling, mental health and medical treatment, legal aid, and employment training. City Mission’s goal is to help each man, woman, mother with children, or veteran who walks through our doors to become a healthy, productive member of society. With your help, we can help our residents renew their lives.

Pictured (L to R) Dr. Sally Mounts, City Mission’s Chief Development Officer and Diana Irey Vaughan, City Mission President and CEO. The new shelter will be called Sally’s Sanctuary in honor of Sally Mounts.

Breaking Ground - Pictured (L to R) Pat Slowey, donor; Walt Turner, City Mission Board Member; Electra Janis, Washington County Commissioner; Diana Irey Vaughan, City Mission President and CEO; and Camera Bartolotta, PA State Senator.

Picturred (L to R) State Senator Camera Bartolotta, Diana Irey Vaughan, and Dean Gartland (City Mission’s President Emeritus). Senator Bartolotta helped City Mission procure a $500,000 grant from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development

Water Pollution Poster Winners Announced in Rostraver Township

At the April 17, 2024 Rostraver Township Board of Commissioners work session, the Commissioners announced the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) poster winners.

In December and January, Rostraver Township staff visited both Marion and Rostraver elementary schools to give presentations on water pollution, and invited the students to submit a poster on ways they can reduce water pollution. The poster contest is an annual part of Rostraver Township’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Program. It is a program regulated by the EPA and DEP to address water pollution.

The students were tasked with creating posters to show simple things they can do in their daily lives to limit pollution ending up in our waterways like the Monongahela and Youghiogheny River. More information on the Rostraver Township MS4 program can be found on the Township website www.rostraver.us

Rostraver Township received 38 poster entries. The Board of Commissioners hosted a pizza party for all entries and presented awards and gift certificates to the winners.

FIRST PLACE WINNERS:

Mackenzie Morrison, “Keep the World Clean!”, Marion Elementary Delaney Naylor, “Clean Up!”, Rostraver Elementary

SECOND PLACE WINNERS:

Everly Burns, “Keep the Earth Clean!”, Marion Elementary

Stetson Pierce, “Save Water! Don’t Pollute!”, Rostraver Elementary

THIRD PLACE WINNERS:

Gianna Virginia Dawson, “Pollution Hurts!", Marion Elementary

Lilia Jones, "Don’t Pollute!”, Rostraver Elementary

The winning posters can be found on display at the Rostraver Township Municipal Building, the Rostraver Township Public Library, Rostraver Elementary School and Marion Elementary School. The Rostraver Township Board of Commissioners also thanked Mrs. Barkey, Mrs. Murphy, and parents/guardians at the meeting for encouraging the students to participate.

Book and Jewelry Sale in West Newton

The West Newton Public Library will hold a book and jewelry sale on June 8 in conjunction with the West Newton town wide Yard Sales. The event will be held from 8:00AM to 2:00PM in the parking lot of the library, located at 124 N. Water Street, West Newton. The rain date will be June 15. Large selection of hardcover, paperback, children’s, biography, non fiction, DVD's, audio tapes and free magazines. Fill TWO BAGS for just $5. Call 724633-0798 for more information.

Mark Your Calendar

Family Fun Night Event Being Held in Elizabeth on June 21

Are you ready for a night of fun for the whole family? Saints Joachim and Anne Parish will be hosting ‘Family Fun Night’ on Friday, June 21 from 5:00PM – 9:00PM. The event will be held at St. Michael Church, located at 101 McLay Drive in Elizabeth. Featured Food Trucks at the event will be Kona Ice, Hot Dawgs, and La Palapa, and there will also be Funnel Cakes, Popcorn, and Cotton Candy!

Live Entertainment by Hillbilly Gravy, a local band, made up of undergrad and grad music students from Duquesne. They feature a mix of country bluegrass, funk, and rock. Guests will also enjoy Game Booths, featuring a wristband area - pay once, then play all night long! There will also be a Classic Car Cruise! E-mail Emily at youth@joachimandannediopitt.org for car cruise registration information.

Plus, don’t miss our world famous Pittsburgh Cookie Table, raffle baskets and so much more!

Pictured (L to R) - Delaney Naylor, First Place Rostraver Elementary School; Everly Burns, Second Place Marion Elementary School; Stetson Pierce, Second Place Rostraver Elementary School; Lilia Jones, Third Place Rostraver Elementary School; Makenzie Morrison, First Place Marion Elementary School; Mrs. Murphy, Marion Elementary School holding Third Place winner Gianna Virginia Dawson.

‘Mutt March’ Held on Main Street in Monongahela

By Jill Runfola

A rainy day did not hold back the crowd of owners and their furry friends in attendance at the ‘Mutt March’ on Saturday, May 4, in downtown Monongahela. Said to be the largest dog parade in the Mon Valley, the large and small, but all adorable dogs walked down Main Street to Chess Park around 10:00AM, followed by food, vendors, a photographer, a costume contest, and a DJ on hand at Chess Park.

The event was sponsored by Monongahela Area Revitalization Corporation (MARC). Organizer Corrina Withrow explains that Susan Withers began the event a decade ago, but when she passed away, Withrow stepped in to take over.

If you’d like to volunteer for MARC or want to know more about upcoming events, please like them on Facebook.

Friends Of South Park Library Holding Fitness Classes Again This Summer!

For the past few summers, the “Friends” have had a special price for their summer fitness classes. They will once again hold their special price of “3 months of classes” for $99. This begins June 1 and runs until August 31. Come as often as classes are held in a week, try different classes or stick to one type of class. Do what you like each week.

Remember this is only for June, July, and August. September reverts to the regular price of 9 classes for $40. Room is air conditioned, plenty of parking at community center Bldg. located at the South Park Twp. Complex.

See list of classes, days, and times on friends’ “info’ stand at So. Park Library. Fran Campas is the teacher. Call Fran at 412-835-1157 for a pass, which you can get at first class. Cash or check is accepted for these passes. Make checks out for $99 to ‘Friends of S.P. Library.’ Classes are held Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday. Bring a friend, neighbor, family member. Wear comfortable clothing, shoes.

South Park Historical Society to Host Judge McCarthy

On June 18 at 7:00PM at the Library Fire Hall, The South Park Historical Society (SPHS) will host guest speaker The Honorable Michael E. McCarthy, Fifth Judical District of Pennsylvania. He will present "My Life as a 'Can-Do' Seabee". Come celebrate our 29th anniversary that night! As always, admission and refreshments are free!

Our group has written two books, which are full of pictures and each are available for $20 including tax. Purchase these books at South Park Library or at our museum on Pleasant Street. One book is about the creation of our Township, the coal mines, Montour RR, schools, churches and more. The second book covers the history of South Park County Park from the beginning through the Allegheny County Fair years. Many pictures and lots of history from long ago. The SPHS will be on our summer hiatus for July and August with no meetings or programs but we will resume on September 17.

‘Desi’, a small Terrier breed, is wrapped to dry from the rain by Pam Davis of Monongahela. Desi recently lost his doggie companion, ‘Lucy’.

‘Timber’, a Huskey, with owner Dawn Haywood of Dunlevy.

‘Cowboy’, a Great Dane, who is only 8 months old, receives love from owner Emily Curran.

These 3 ladies worked at the basket raffle vendor. L-R: Colleen Bullock and Emma Polonoli (both MARC volunteers) and Erin Ansell, CFS Bank Monongahela Manager.

Amanda Gabeletto (center), Director of Monongahela Area Library, with her husband, “Fetch,” the library mascot. They were offering photography services.

‘Gypsy’, a service dog acquired in Knoxville, TN, is very much loved by Jared and Hannah Sherlock of Monongahela.

Blood Drive in Belle Vernon Set for June 10

The Bible ChapelRostraver Campus is hosting a blood drive on Monday, June 10 from 11:30AM to 5:00PM at 203 Johnson Ave. Belle Vernon in the church gym. Call 1-800Red Cross or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter Belle Vernon to schedule an appointment.

California UMC to Hold Free Community Picnic

California United Methodist Church will be celebrating California Borough's 175th anniversary with a Free Picnic Community Dinner on Wednesday, June 5, at 6:00PM, at the Hollywood Pavilion, at 313 Third Street, California, PA. The pavilion is one block to the left of the church. Please bring a covered dish to share. Hot dogs will be provided by California United Methodist Church and drinks, by Key Bank. The dinner will be followed by a walking tour of historical sites downtown.

Thomas Presbyterian to Hold ‘Fun Fest’

On Saturday June 15 Thomas Presbyterian Church, located at 1068 Linden Road in Eighty-Four, will hold their ‘Fun Fest’ event from 9:00AM – 7:00PM. There will be multiple activities going on that day including craft booths and Food trucks. There will be a six-team baseball tournament starting at 9:00AM. Everyone is welcome!

Singles Group for College Grads Ages 50 Plus

The Association of University People (AUP) invites singles 50+, who are 4-year college graduates, to join them for activities and to meet new people. Activities include monthly dinners, social gatherings, concerts and day trips. Those interested can attend three activities as guests before joining. To obtain more information about AUP or become an AUP member, call and leave a message at 412-353-9088 or email

The History of the Silver Dollar to be Discussed at South Hills Coin Club Meeting

The monthly meeting of the South Hills Coin Club will be held on Tuesday evening June 11, at 7:30 PM at the Bethel Park municipal building located at 5100 West Library Ave. in Bethel Park. All members and the general public are invited.

This month's program will be on the history of the silver dollar. A 50/50 will be offered and children's prizes to be awarded. Applications are now being accepted for membership. For more information call 724-984-6611.

Magician Will Kick Off Belle Vernon Library Summer Reading Program

The Belle Vernon Public Library will kick off their ‘Summer Reading in the Park’ program on Wednesday, June 26 at 11:00AM by presenting Magician Steve Haberman and his "Adventure Begins at Your Library." The program will be presented at the pavilion at Community Bank Park in North Belle Vernon. All communities are welcome. Attendees may want to bring a blanket or pillow to sit on. The library will host programs weekly in July on Wednesdays at 11:00AM. For more info, call the library at 724-929-6642.

Thomas Jefferson's “Beauty and the Beast” Earns Best Musical, Total of Five Honors at 33rd Gene Kelly Awards

Thomas Jefferson High School’s production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ won five awards, including ‘Best Musical,’ at the 33rd Annual Pittsburgh CLO Gene Kelly Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theater. The event was held Saturday night, May 25 at the Benedum Center.

For the second time in three years, Thomas Jefferson’s musical theater students earned Best Musical honors in their budget category. TJ and Woodland Hills’ ‘Wonderland Pilot Production’ were the two finalists in Budget Category IV, the highest category. In 2022, TJ’s ‘Legally Blonde’ earned Best Musical, the first time the school had earned the top honor.

In addition to Best Musical, ‘Beauty and the Beast’ also won ‘Best Vocal Ensemble’ and ‘Best Crew/Technical Execution’ for the third consecutive year in its budget category. Thomas Jefferson also won ‘Best Lighting Design,’ an area that included senior Brady Bandik, who was selected the ‘Outstanding Student Artist’ among the six finalists from all participating schools.

Another TJ senior, Julie Evanchak, was the recipient of the ‘Christopher Rawson Kelly Critics Award’ and spoke at Saturday’s night’s ceremony.

Thomas Jefferson’s Beauty and the Beast was nominated in all eight Gene Kelly Awards ensemble categories for the second consecutive year, led by Best Musical.

In the acting categories, TJ’s Olivia Virgin was selected a Gene Kelly Awards finalist for ‘Best Actress’ and Kayleigh Johnson was named a finalist for ‘Best Supporting Actress’. Johnson was a ‘Best Actress’ semifi-

nalist in 2023. Aidan Oeler was a 2024 semifinalist in the ‘Best Actor’ category and Eli Fisher was a semifinalist in the ‘Best Supporting Acto’r category. There were six overall nominees in each of the acting categories

Members of “Beauty and the Beast” cast performed “Be Our Guest” during the Gene Kelly Awards, named for the legendary performer, who was a Pittsburgh native.

Beauty and the Beast was directed by Jim Benedek, who teaches Technology Education at TJ. Julie Tipton, a TJ English and theater educator, was the assistant director and Michele Stoicovy, who teaches family and consumer science at TJ, coordinated costume design. Thomas Jefferson music educators Julie Lucci (vocal director) and Jim Mirabella (orchestra pit director) also were members of the musical production team. Additional members of the Beauty and the Beast team include: Louis Smolenski (lighting director), Dave Herrington (sound director), Alana Wieclaw (dance choreographer), Jennifer Allan (business operations/publicity) and Renae Benedek.

In 2023, Thomas Jefferson’s production of “Anything Goes,” earned three Gene Kelly Awards and was one of two finalists for Best Musical in Budget Level IV. Ashley Caldwell was named Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Erma. For the second consecutive year, TJ’s musical theater students captured Best Vocal Ensemble and Best Crew/Technical

Execution in its budget level, moving up to Budget Level IV in 2023.

Two years ago, TJ’s production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical,” collected five Gene Kelly Awards, including its first Best Musical honor. Legally Blonde also won Best Scenic Design, Best Vocal Ensemble, Best Dance Ensemble and Best Crew/Technical Execution in its budget level.

The Gene Kelly Awards are presented by the Pittsburgh CLO and Michael J. Kara Family, with additional support from The Gismondi Family Foundation, Deloitte, Point Park University, PNC Bank, Highmark, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and the CLO Ambassadors.

Thomas Jefferson is the high school that serves the West Jefferson Hills SD community.

TJ students performing "Be Our Guest" from "Beauty and the Beast" at the Gene Kelly Awards at the Benedum Center on Saturday, May 25.

TJ students shown performing their musical earlier in the year

Peters Creek Historical Society

Announces 2024 Flag Garden

The Flag Garden at the Enoch Wright House is an annual project sponsored by the Peters Creek Historical Society. It is done to honor the memory of those who served in the military on Veterans Day, Memorial Day and July 4th. The community is invited to participate in this tribute. If interested, please send the name to be honored and a donation of $6 for the flag to the Peters Creek Historical Society, P.O. Box 208, Venetia, PA 15367, Attn: Donna.

PICNIC DATE SET

Mon Valley Area Rotary Clubs Collaborate for Training Session on Holistic Approaches to Treating Autism and Other Disorders

The society will host a picnic for members/guests at the Wright House, 6:00 pm, Monday June 24. Beverages and hot dogs are provided; members are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert.

DOCENTS WELCOME VISITORS

Docents of the Enoch Wright House, 815 Venetia Road, Venetia, will be on hand to welcome visitors and give tours on Saturday, June 22 from 12:00 noon to 3:00PM and on Tuesday, June 25 from 6:00PM -8:00PM. Take a step back in local history to learn about the pioneer family of Wrights and tour the unique ca.1815 home built by Enoch, a National and State Register Historical landmark!

For more information on the society, The Enoch Wright House and log cabin, check out the website:www.peterscreekhistoricalsociety.org.

Mon Valley Coin Club to Discuss "United States Fractional Currency"

The monthly meeting of the Mon Valley Coin Club will take place at 7:00PM on Thursday June 20 at VFW Post 1409, 793 E. Main St., Monongahela. All members and the public are invited to attend. Discussion will be held on "United States Fractional Currency". A 50/50 will be offered and children's prizes will be awarded. Applications for membership are being accepted. For Additional information, call 724-503-8455 or 724-972-8464.

The Mid Mon Valley Rotary Clubs recently hosted a training session on Holistic Approaches to Autism, ADHD, and Behavior with Dr. Kristan Weisdack presenting. Over 40 interested educators, parents and caretakers attended the six hour event at Penn Highlands Hospital Lombardi Conference Center free of charge. Dr. Weisdack provided valuable insight and tools for caring for children challenged by these disorders. This was a group service project of the Belle Vernon Rotary Club, Brownsville Rotary Club, California Rotary Club, Monongahela Rotary Club and West Newton Rotary, that work together providing service to local communities. During the workshop Belle Vernon Rotary President Brian Mentzer expressed thanks to BV member Dr. Weisdack for donating her time and expertise, Penn Highlands for providing the excellent venue and refreshments, and all Rotarians who coordinated this effort in honor of National Autism Month. Please find out more about Dr. Weisdack, autism and resources at BehaviorWorx of Southwestern PA.

Dr. Kristan Weisdack engages the attendees with behavior scenarios.

The Memorial Day Flag Garden at the Enoch Wright House in May

Rotary Clubs represented at the training, (left to right) Laurie Noll, Somerset, Debby Puglia, Chris Giannamore, Brian Mentzer, Kristan Weisdack, Tom Yoder, and Deb Keefer all of the Belle Vernon Rotary, Cherie Sears, California Club and Zone 33 Assistant Rotary Coordinator, Joe Orbovich, Crafton Ingram, and Michele Horvath, Canonsburg

Inaugural ‘Provins-Hummel Memorial Outing’ Set for June 29 at Butler’s Golf Course

The volunteer organizers of the first-ever 'Provins-Hummel Memorial Golf Outing' have unveiled their intentions to pay tribute and commemorate the legacies of two former local law enforcement officers.

Ofc. Dale Provins, Jr., a resident of Rostraver Township, was killed in the line of duty. He succumbed to his injuries from a June 3, 2020 incident when an oncoming vehicle crossed the center line and struck Ofc. Provins’ patrol car headon. The driver was charged with homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, driving under the influence, and drug possession. Provins was a proud U.S. Marine Corps and Pennsylvania Army National Guard Veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. He had served with the Jefferson Hills Borough Police Department for 15 years, an alumnus of California University of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania Western University), and was a third-generation police officer. He was also an active member of the Center for Fitness and Health in Rostraver Township. He is survived by his daughter, fiancée, parents, and siblings.

Michael Hummel was known to many as "Dr. Hummel," "Maj. Hummel," or "Ofc. Hummel." He was a resident of Coal Center and passed away in March of 2024. With pride and honor, Hummel served for 22 years in the United States Army, during which he was a part of several distinguished Army units including the 2/75th Ranger Regiment, the 101st Airborne Division, and served as a professor at the United States Military Academy, West Point. Throughout his military career, he earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Combat Parachutist Badge, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Air Assault Wings, Military Freefall Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab, among others. After retiring from the military, Hummel continued his service as a tenured Senior Professor of

Summer Car Cruises Planned at Thomas Presbyterian

Join us at Thomas Presbyterian Church 1068 Linden Road, EightyFour, for our car cruises this summer. Our car cruise dates are as follows: June 8, June 22, July 8, July 20, and August 3. Our cruises are from 5:00PM to 8:00PM. Come out and enjoy some good food, hear some great tunes and of course see some great-looking cars.

Criminal Justice and Security Studies at Pennsylvania Western University (California). Additionally, he served as a certified police officer in Pennsylvania, working part-time with both the Charleroi Regional Police Department and the City of Monessen Police Department. He is survived by his three children, Nathan, Joseph, and Katie.

Provins and Hummel shared similar career paths, both having served in the armed forces during the Gulf War, both having worked as law enforcement officers, and both having ties to California University of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania Western University).

The golf event is set to take place on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Butler’s Golf Course in Elizabeth Township. Participation is restricted to foursomes, with registration priced at $500 per team; individual sign-ups will not be accepted. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, a light breakfast, refreshments, and dinner, along with the opportunity to vie for awards and prizes.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information or to register, please contact provinshummel@gmail.com. It's recommended to register early as spots are expected to fill up fast. Upon registration via the provided email address, further details, including the registration form, will be provided.

Those wishing to contribute through donations, hole sponsorships, or volunteering for day-of activities are welcome to reach out to the committee using the email address provided above.

All proceeds from the event will benefit:

• ‘Dale Provins, Jr. Memorial Act 120 Scholarship’ at Westmoreland College in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, awarding a scholarship to assist a cadet enrolled in the Act 120 Municipal Police Academy.

• ‘Michael L. Hummel Memorial Scholarship’ at California University of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania Western University), awarding a scholarship to a junior or senior student attending the main campus and seeking a degree in criminal justice.

The 4th Annual Ofc. Dale T. Provins, Jr. Memorial Blood Drive is scheduled for June 9, from 10:00AM – 4:00PM at the Jefferson Hills Police Department at 925 Old Clairton Road, Clairton, PA.

Patriotic Decorating Contest in California Borough

Have you signed up for the ‘Red, White, and Blue’ Decorating Contest?

Show your spirit and patriotism by celebrating California Borough's 175th Anniversary by decorating your business windows, porches, and more! Colonial, Modern, and Traditional. Properties within the California Borough are eligible to participate. Register via email: 175CALPA@GMAIL.COM or call 724-938-1355. Judging dates are June 29 and 30. Winners will be announced on July 1 and celebrated at the community's 175th anniversary picnic on July 4.

West Jefferson Hills Historical Society's June Program to Discuss Prehistoric Indian Villages

Long before Europeans settled in Western Pennsylvania, Native Americans had already been residing here for centuries. Though long gone from the area today, these natives left behind many traces of their existence which archaeologists have uncovered. One nearby dig, led by archeologist Bob Oshnock, was that of Consol Site 36Wm100. Lasting for 16 years, the excavation consisted of two late prehistoric Monongahela Circular Villages located on a high hilltop above the Youghiogheny River in Sewickley Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

Curious about the story of these local Native Americans? Then attend a fascinating free program, “Monongahela Indian Village,” presented by Bob Oshnock, Jim Barno, and Scott Benack at 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 26 in the Community Rooms of the Jefferson Hills Borough Building. All in attendance are sure to discover many interesting and perhaps unexpected details about some of the first people who lived in Western Pennsylvania.

‘Fall Fest’ Event Set for September 7 in Elizabeth

The United Methodist Women of Central Highlands United Methodist Church, Elizabeth Township are gearing up for ‘FALL FEST 2024.’ This event will be held on Saturday, September 7, from 11:00AM to 3:00PM rain or shine in the rear parking lot of the church. Added new this year will be a Chinese Auction. We hope that each participant of FALL FEST 2024 will offer a basket for this auction. Each basket should have the name and business of the donor and be wrapped in clear cellophane.

Interested crafters, vendors, and food trucks can find detailed information and the registration form on the church’s website, www.chcumc.org. If any vendor crafter or food truck should have any questions, they may call the church office at 412-751-0511 and a member of FALL FEST 2024 will contact you.

While others retreat, we are moving forward.

Some publication’s numbers are falling behind. Your free community paper is moving forward. Readership of free community papers is now higher than paid daily papers, and continues to grow. Rather than being replaced by “instant” media, your local free community paper has become an important part of our neighborhood.

Another sign we’re working for you.

Free Papers

Bob Oshnock, pictured here at the Consol site archeological dig, will be the guest speaker at the WJHHS program on June 26

Belle Vernon Rotary Donates to Three Area Libraries

Belle Vernon Rotary showed its support for three local libraries at their May 9 meeting at Cedarbrook Golf Course. Rotarian Theresa McCulloch introduced representatives of three Belle Vernon area libraries for remarks, followed by check presentations by President Brian Mentzer and Rotary Members.

Library Board President Debi Tidholm spoke on behalf of the Frazier Community Library, a Perryopolis institution that began with a $1.5 million donation in 1948 from Mary Fuller Frazier, who grew up in Perryopolis. Formerly located in the Frazier High School Building, it is now located at 400 Liberty Street, Perryopolis, where only 25% of their collection can be displayed. They are looking for a permanent new location.

North Belle Vernon Library, represented by President Sally Myers and Treasurer June Exley was then introduced. The library services North Belle Vernon, Belle Vernon Borough, Washington Township and Fayette City. They provide many services to the community, including computers, and e books, The library is located at 505 Speer Street in North Belle Vernon.

Rostraver Library, represented by Kelly Yoskosky is located at 700 Plaza Drive, Rostraver, and also is responsible for the Smithton Public Library, located at 615 Center Street, Smithton. The library has numerous activities including a writers group, tiny tikes, storytime for children, adult crafts, a knitters group, a Lego club, etc. They bring in a representative from the Dept of Health monthly to present a program and their summer reading program, Adventure at your Library, is available online and at the library. Smithton library also is an active community center hosting a book club and family nights.

Published Monthly by Haniford Enterprises, LLC

P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

Phone/Fax: (412) 249-8177

E-mail: news@messengerpaper.com

The South Hills - Mon Valley Messenger is published during the last week of the month preceding the issue date.

It is available FREE of charge at over 425 area locations throughout the South Hills and Mon Valley communities.

Owner/Publisher/Editor

Douglas E. Haniford

Contributing Writers/Photographers

J.R. Brower, Colette Dell

Alice Harris

Charlotte Hopkins

Jill Runfola

Matthew Peaslee, Lois Thomson

Advertising: Charmaine Nebash

Editor: Matthew Peaslee

Distribution: Matthew Peaslee

Kara Prentice

Accounting and Business Administration: Judy Gramm

Promotions and Events: Kara Prentice

Art Director JMC Graphics lammienancy@aol.com •(412) 877-5321

Editorial Policy

The South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger publishes community news free of charge.

We welcome the submission of articles, news releases, community announcements, editorials and letters for publication.

The 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 15th day of the month preceding issue date.

© The South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger and Haniford Enterprises, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. We reserve the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at anytime. The opinions expressed in the Messenger are those of the author, and not necessarily of the Messenger.

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

Rostraver Library Donation - Pictured (L to R): Brian Mentzer, Fred Foster, Kelly Yoskosky, Brian Pirilla and Theresa McCulloch

North Belle Vernon Library Donation - Pictured (L to R): Brian Mentzer, Sally Myers, June Exley, Fred Exley, and Theresa McCulloch.

Frazier Community Library Donation - Pictured (L to R): Theresa McCulloch, Brian Mentzer, Leslie Uhren, Debi Tidholm, Frances Kranek, Sophie Shahan, Roseann Bowser, Pat McCulloch

Elizabeth Area Churches Hold Field Trip to Lancaster

Saints Joachim and Anne Parish in Elizabeth recently sponsored a field trip to Lancaster. The group visited an Amish Farm and the Sight and Sound Theater to see Daniel.

Local Worship

VBS Planned at the Bible Chapel in Rostraver

The Bible Chapel, located at 209 Johnston Ave in Rostraver Twp. is getting ready for its annual Neighborhood Vacation Bible School! This year’s theme is ‘Under the Sea Adventure.’ The event will be held June 24-28 from 6-8 PM at the Bible Chapel and children ages 3-10 are welcome to attend. Lots of fun and adventure await all who attend. For more info please contact Jacquline or Sondra at 412-9778590.

Rev. Thomas J. Burke- Pastor of Saints Joachim and Anne Parishes visits the pony Melody at an Amish Farm.

The field trip group shown at an Amish Farm

The group pictured outside the Sight and Sound Theater in Lancaster

Business & Merchant News

“Print Will Never Be a Dinosaur” Messenger Newspaper Celebrates 20 Years of Publishing

By Matthew Peaslee

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly one-third of new businesses fail within their first two years. And half of new businesses close their doors for good within the first five years. So, it is no small feat that a local community newspaper that printed their first issue back in June 2004 – at a time when newspapers were considered a dying breed, a dinosaur – has reached a milestone, celebrating their 20-year anniversary. The June 2024 issue of the South Hills – Mon Valley Messenger signifies the beginning of the company’s 21st year of publishing.

Launched as the Union-Finley Messenger in June 2004 by Haniford Enterprises, LLC, owner and publisher Doug Haniford had hoped to just operate a tiny community publication that kept residents informed about local events, municipal news and gave small businesses a voice to advertise.

“Our very first issue was 24 pages I believe, and our circulation was much smaller,” says Haniford. “We printed in mostly black and white, with just 1 added color blue on the front and back covers.” The paper was quarter-folded so that it was easier to mail, as the Messenger was bulk mailed to all addresses in Union Township, Finleyville and New Eagle. “Looking back, our premiere issue was very bland looking, no full color, and pretty small. But, boy was it beautiful!” Haniford said with a smile. “So much planning and hard work went in to getting that first issue done. To see it finally come to fruition was such a satisfying feeling.”

tough times when Haniford wasn’t sure if he would be able to continue.

In the 20 years since that premiere issue, the Messenger newspaper has grown significantly, and underwent a few makeovers, including some strategic changes in distribution, editorial content, and staffing. The coverage area also expanded as well starting with the introduction of Haniford’s second newspaper, the Mon Valley Messenger in August 2011. Eventually, due to some duplication of coverage, and cost efficiencies, Haniford chose to merge the UnionFinley Messenger and Mon Valley Messenger into one larger reaching newspaper. So in June 2014, the two newspapers were combined and re-branded as the South Hills – Mon Valley Messenger.

“We’ve definitely evolved over the last 20 years with some rebranding, and re-designs, and the launch of our website MessengerPaper.com,” said Haniford. “Like anything else, you need to adapt to the changing needs of readers and the marketplace.”

A BUMPY ROAD

Despite all of the positive feedback, loyal readers and even some national awards and recognition from newspaper trade associations, there were some

“Readership has never been a problem. But advertisers started going away from newspapers,” said Haniford. “Businesses felt they could get the same results by posting on their social media page – to people who already knew about them, or by just relying on word of mouth.” Haniford added, “Some of the larger local businesses had their hands tied, with their advertising being determined by a corporate marketing department in a different state that didn’t understand or recognize the strength of community newspapers, or the Messenger in particular. So, ironically, at the same time we were growing, with larger circulation and larger page count, and reaching more readers for advertisers to speak to, our ad sales revenue was declining. And since advertising is our only source of revenue, it was difficult to make ends meet.”

There were times that advertising revenue was so bad, that Haniford was concerned that he would have to cease operations and file bankruptcy.

“During the COVID pandemic of 2020 and 2021, we lost about 60% of our income. Businesses either closed their doors for good, or stopped advertising altogether, because they were not permitted to operate, or didn’t have the budget to invest in advertising because their sales were impacted as well.”

While the economy has slowly been climbing back from COVID, Haniford says the lasting impact on his newspaper remains. Page count had to be trimmed in half from an average of 80 pages per monthly issue, to 40 pages.

The very first issue of the Union-Finley Messenger – published June, 2004

The first copy of the Mon Valley Messenger –published in August 2011. (Continued on following page.)

(Continued from previous page.)

He also cut back on circulation, trimming about 7,000 copies a month.

“We had to make some tough decisions in order to continue operating. When revenue is not coming in, expenses need to be cut. We had numerous advertisers who just went out of business during COVID, or could no longer afford to advertise. We’ve not been able to replace that revenue, and therefore we’re stagnant right now at our page count of 40 pages, and 20,000 circulation.”

Haniford firmly believes that there is enough community news and information to share every month that he could easily publish an 80 page newspaper if the advertising revenue was coming in. “I still need to reject news stories and article submissions every month, because we can’t afford to print the extra pages to include them,” he says. “I could easily double our circulation to 40,000 copies or more, as there are plenty of locations that would carry our newspaper and fill in some circulation gaps. But I can’t afford to print that many papers when the advertising revenue just isn’t there right now.”

Lack of advertising sales revenue has also impacted staffing levels at the Messenger. “I used to have a regular group of writers, and a handful of advertising sales reps, but it’s difficult to pay people when the revenue is not coming in. I’ve been without an Admin Assistant for almost two years, so there’s nobody to answer the phones or reply to incoming e-mails in a timely fashion. Eventually these tasks fall back into my lap, and there’s only so many hours in the day for me to tackle everything. And how do we grow our advertising sales revenue, without any sales reps? Even so, we’ve found a way to push through and survive.”

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

Haniford still believes there will be a place for newspapers and other print publications long into the future.

“Nothing will ever replace the power of newspapers,” says Haniford. “We’ll never be a dinosaur in my opinion. Being able to read the news without needing a

Wi-Fi connection, or a battery, or waiting for an article to load, or being interrupted by pop-up ads or on-line surveys!” He added, “People can flip through a newspaper at their own pace, cut out an article, or a recipe, or a coupon or a picture of their kids and hang it on the refrigerator. The entire reading experience is just better with newspapers. You can feel the paper, and the pages make a distinctive sound when turned. Readers can underline or highlight a sentence with ink, scribble in the margin, stick a post-it note or use a bookmark.”

Haniford says that it’s newspapers that provided the very first “mobile” news source. “What’s more mobile that rolling up or folding a newspaper to take it with you? You can always come back to read it later, and pick-up right where you left off –without having to log back in again, or scroll to find your article, and hope it didn’t disappear.”

Even so, Haniford recognizes that people are getting their information from a variety of different sources these days, so he needs to make sure that we provide different platforms and options so that everyone can consume their community news in the manner they prefer.

“We have a nice website where people can read the very same news and information that is in our print edition, and we have a Facebook page with almost 8,000 followers. We’ll continue to adapt and change with the times, but our heart and soul will always be printed newspapers.”

A SINCERE APPRECIATION

Haniford wanted to make sure he thanked all of the people and business that helped his business reach the 20 year mark. “There are just so many people who have contributed to this newspaper,” said Haniford. “From local residents who just wanted to be involved in the community and write for their hometown newspaper, to seasoned and professional writers, and graphic artists who create the newspaper ever single month.” He added, “We have had some very loyal, longtime advertisers – some who have remained with us in every issue since

we started! They have been the backbone of support that allows us to keep going.”

Haniford wanted to send a special acknowledgment to some very key contributors over the years who have been instrumental to his success. “There have been numerous people who have helped get us to where we are today – so I can’t name everyone without missing somebody or forgetting someone. But I wanted to pay tribute to a few people in particular who deserve a special mention. Paul Chasko was one of my first staff writers who was very involved with the paper and contributed immensely to our local coverage. Paul passed away a few years ago, but he was a part of the original team that got us going.”

Haniford made sure that he acknowledged several others as well.

“Ken Askew our long-time circulation manager who just retired. Lisa Tomosky, my first Advertising Sales rep who really drove the revenue that helped our newspaper take off. John Mollenauer and Judi Robbins who helped pave the way for the launch of the Mon Valley Messenger, and Jerry Zahand a local business owner who always helped with advice, encouragement and ideas on how to succeed in business.

Krista Ramsey and Christen Stroh, two of my first Editors, Kelly Frost and Heather Latorre, who wore numerous hats, as well as J.R. Brower, Jim Caldwell, Alice Harris, Colette Dell, Miranda Startare, Samantha Milton, Mandy Withers-Kozlowski and Charlotte Hopkins – freelance writers who contributed so much of their time.

Julianne Eisel and Joan Buck who handle the bulk of our graphic design, and Kara Prentice who has done everything from being a writer, delivery driver and promotions manager.

And Judy Gramm who makes sure that our billing is accurate and on time, and Charmaine Nebash who has helped service our advertising accounts almost since we started, and the husband and wife duo of Roger and Tina Patterson who helped the paper in numerous capacities over the years.”

Haniford wanted to save his best for last – and thank his long-time Art

Director Nancy Lammie of JMC Graphics. “Nancy has been such a Godsend for me,” said Haniford. “She has stuck with me through thick and thin, and her patience is unbelievable. I don’t give her nearly enough time to do her job every month – unloading lots of late articles and last minute ads for her to lay out, but she always pulls through, and builds a beautiful newspaper that makes me proud every month. We would not be where we are today without Nancy. I can honestly say that!”

Haniford said he would be remiss if he didn’t mention members of his current team, who will continue to help the newspaper grow and continue serving the community into the future. “I believe we have a good group with us now, mixing in some long-time team members with some new ones like Matthew Peaslee, Jill Runfola, and Lois Thompson.”

There have been numerous other contributors to the Messenger over the last 20 years, and Haniford apologized for not naming everyone. “There have just been so many people who have helped, I couldn’t possibly list them all. Sometimes people stopped by for just for a few months, or sometimes just for a few years. So many people wanted to get involved and be a part of this. I’ve met so many great people.”

He closed our interview by adding that they are always looking for advertising sales representatives to help drive sales revenue, so that the newspaper can continue its mission to provide news and information to residents. “If you like talking with people, and have a bit of sales experience and drive, give me a call! We can always use more friendly salespeople! And if you enjoy reading the newspaper and want to keep it going – please encourage your local business to advertise, or if you are a business, give us a call, and let us show you how we can generate exposure for you. We hope to be celebrating a 30 year and 40 year anniversary in the future – but only local advertising support will determine how long we are around.”

School News...School News

BV Rotary Honors Students of the Month

The Belle Vernon Rotary honored ‘Students of the Month’ for 2024 from Frazier High School and Belle Vernon Area High School at Cedarbrook Clubhouse Grill on May 2.

Joined by their families for a dinner meeting, the students shared with members and guests their activities and future plans. Rotary members Chris Giannamore and Theresa McCulloch coordinated this event along with Frazier Interact sponsor Cindy Marr, and BVA Interact sponsor Amy Jennings. The students also heard the evening's speaker, Philip Renden, who retired as head of the Pittsburgh Division of the FBI, and Jack Wagner of the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs organization.

Henderson Named WJHSD Assistant Superintendent

The West Jefferson Hills Board of School Directors approved the appointment of Dr. William (Bill) Henderson III as the district’s Assistant Superintendent during a special Board meeting on Tuesday, May 7. Dr. Henderson will join the WJHSD administrative team after serving as Superintendent of the Frazier School District since July 2014.

He will replace Dr. Matthew Patterson, who is departing in late June to become Executive Director of Secondary Education and Instruction with the Fox Chapel Area SD. Henderson will begin his tenure with WJHSD beginning on July 1, 2024, but will be transitioning to the district over the next two months.

Henderson comes to the West Elizabeth, Jefferson Hills and Pleasant Hills communities with nearly 14 years of experience as a Superintendent and more than 25 years in K-12 public education as a teacher, building and district level administrator. In addition to his nearly 10 years with Frazier SD, Henderson previously was Superintendent at Southeastern Greene SD for four years.

“The West Jefferson Hills School District is excited to welcome Dr. Henderson as a member of our team. His leadership skills, academic expertise, and commitment to children will be an excellent addition to our schools,” said WJHSD Superintendent Dr. Janet Sardon. “We look forward to upcoming events at the end of this school year, and others throughout the summer months, for him to meet members of our staff, student body and community.”

“I am honored to be appointed by the Board of Directors to the Assistant Superintendent position of the West Jefferson Hills School District,” Henderson stated. “I look forward to working closely with the Board, Dr. Sardon, Dr. Patterson, the administration, and staff during my transition. I am also excited to work with the talented educators, administrators, students, parents and community stakeholders to continue fostering an environment of excellence and innovation within the West Jefferson Hills School District. Throughout this process, it was clear that there is a great amount of pride throughout the district and I am extremely excited to become a part of the TJ family.”

Dr. Henderson is a graduate of West Liberty State College and earned his Master of Education in Administrative and Policy Studies from the University of Pittsburgh. He also earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Administration from Point Park University and his Superintendent Letter of Eligibility from Gannon University. Henderson began his career teaching mathematics and physical education and was Frazier’s Athletic Director for nearly five years. He served as an elementary principal with the Charleroi SD and a middle school principal with the Bethlehem Center SD before moving into the Superintendent role with Southeastern Greene.

West Jefferson Hills has more than 3,400 students and is among the fastestgrowing districts in Allegheny County.

Dr. William Henderson, III

Frazier Students of the Month(Pictured l to r) Brianna Krall and Claire Domonkos.

Belle Vernon Students of the Month (Pictured l to r) Addison Hoffman, Melina Stratigos, and Alayna Horne.

Pleasant Hills Middle School Students Recognized by WJHSD Board

Nearly 30 Pleasant Hills Middle School students were recognized by the West Jefferson Hills School District Board for a variety of academic, artistic and athletic achievements during the May 21 monthly meeting.

Student Council officers Tessa Obiero and Luca Slebrich read the district’s Mission Statement and introduced the PHMS honorees, who received certificates from principal Dan Como and WJHSD Superintendent Dr. Janet Sardon.

Two PHMS Future Problem Solving teams, one in sixth grade and one in seventh grade, won their divisions at the Pennsylvania State Bowl and advanced to the International Future Problem Solving competition at Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind. from June 5-9.

Future Problem Solving State Champions:

6th Grade Team: Mila Downs, Nora Graff, Bailey Merrell, Alexa Thomas

7th Grade Team: Eli Doerfler, Austin Hinkle, Ollie Whitsel, Steven Wills

PMEA Elementary District Band:

Gabriella Bernardi, Jayden Brinker, Gwendolynn Cantley, Evan Giliberto, Ian Luciew, Aislinn Verbanick

PMEA Junior High District Band: Cullen Kesser, Ava Lobaugh, Kaitlyn Luff, Isaac Stiteler

PMEA Elementary String Fest: Leah Davis, Mya Schlott, Daniel Shin

PMEA Junior High District Orchestra: Gabriella Deleel, Alex Lauver

PMEA Elementary Sing Fest: Savannah Bell, Amelia Dann, Leighton DePierre, Arya Tilford

PMEA Junior High District Chorus: Ainsley Dukes, Giuliana Ziegler

School Record-Setting Track & Field Team:

• Josh Charles (broke the PHMS record in 800 meters; previously set in 2019)

• Adam Wilson (broke the 110-meter hurdles mark; previously set in 2008)

• 4x100 meter relay team (Broke the school record three times this season, topped by :47.87: San Aung, Sonal Bhandari, Sam Grogan, Jason Pradhan, Mason Solomon. Jason Pradhan also broke the PHMS triple jump mark).

Pictured are PHMS' two PA Champion Future Problem Solving teams, both of which have advanced to the International Future Problem Solving competition in June.

Go Green With Home Cleaners

(Family Features) If you’re among those looking for ways to clean your home while also going green, it may be easier than you think. Consider these easy and affordable solutions to help you live more environmentally friendly. You may be surprised to find you already have many of these household products on hand.

Baking soda: A natural, safe, effective and gentle solution, baking soda can serve multiple home cleaning needs. Make a paste of three parts

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Home & Garden

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

(Photo courtesy of Unsplash)

(Continued from previous page.)

baking soda to one part water. Rub onto silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining serving or decor pieces. Additionally, you can sprinkle baking soda on upholstery and carpet to get rid of odors.

Vinegar: With the acidity to help get rid of dirt and grime around the home, vinegar can be used to clean cloudy glassware. Simply soak paper towels or a cloth in full-strength white distilled vinegar and wrap around both the inside and outside of the glass. Let sit before rinsing clean. To remove lime deposits on your tea kettle, add 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar to the water and let it sit overnight. In the morning, boil the vinegar for a few minutes then rinse with water.

Lemons: With a fresh, natural smell, lemons have the acidity to remove soap scum, clean and shine brass and remove hard water deposits. Just spray some lemon juice on tile surfaces to remove soap scum or hard water deposits. Squeeze lemon juice on a cloth and use to polish brass around the home.

Houseplants: Plants serve as natural air purifiers. African violets and ferns are beautiful ways to help clear the air.

Other easy, green ideas for keeping your home clean include opening windows and doors while you clean to improve air quality and taking off your shoes when you come inside, which can help avoid tracking dust, dirt, pollen and more throughout the house.

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

HOME & GARDEN

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

CHARLEROI

Viking Acquisitions LLC Sterner Rousch Acquisitions LLC

Natalie M Radomile Calcek Danielle Hatalowich

Barry Schaum Daniel Kovic

David Foy trustee Joshua Kamara and Joy A. M. Boston Sayon

Andrew Kutz Zachary Evans and Emma Valla

CLAIRTON

Estate of Dolores Ferrero David Ferrero Exr and Dominique Highe 681 Miller Ave.

Eric Crable Dominic Ross 1138 Toman Ave.

Straub Property Mgmt LLC Burgh Port 2 LLC

Erin Bryner Yarris WC Home Access Owner PA LLC

VB Two LLC Burgh Port 1 LLC

VB 2 LLC Pitt Vision LLC

Abdul Rasheed Nasir Performance Is Altitude L.P.

Sharon Pacich 3Rs Partners LLC 121 N Fourth

Jennifer Paoletti Burgh Port 2 LLC

Tina Pariyer Dylan and Denitsa Vacher

Estate of Kathy Dimperio Burgh Port 2 LLC

Estate of Carol Brusco Dinean Benack

Alleg Cty Redev Authority Nicholas Nickolich

DONORA

Estate of R. Amatangelo Jr. Tony Rodriguez 533

Christopher Stuyvesant Amanda Toia

Tyler Daube Patricia Lynn Trumpie

2VIN Home Investments Sergio Afanador 1324 Meldon Ave.

ELIZABETH BOROUGH

Estate of James March Robert and Barbara Werner 4 Maple Ave. $80,520.

Estate of James Lee Barlow David Lloyd 725 Third Ave. $100,000.

Michael Warchola Andrew and Hannah Kuzma N Second St. $15,000.

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP

Alexander Caley Andrew and Hannah Kuzma Industry Road

$5,000.

Scott Bartek Timothy and Andrea Jackowski 1021 Deerfield Drive $290,000.

Patrick Finnegan Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 412 Elizabeth Ave.

$50,000.by sheriff's deed.

Harold Boone Jr. Gerald and Monica Lafrankie 510 Friendship Drive $187,500.

Fred Greco Mark and Veronica Bennett 120 Helena Drive $375,000.

Geoffrey Townsend Bowers Investment Realty LLC 500-502 Lincoln St. $99,000.

Michael Henry Christian and Edith Koeppen trustee 159 Karen Drive

Alfred Carter Olympus Energy LLC Railroad St.

$310,000.

$10,000.

DVS Properties LLC Diane and Bruno Lazzaris Stoneybrook Drive $130,000.

Jason Lancia Nyles Falatek 112 Styche St.

Joann Ruffing VRMTG Asset Trust 500 Terrace Drive

John Logas Tiffany Boal 1602 Haymaker St.

$20,000.

$75,000.by sheriff's deed.

$205,000.

Cordelia Holdings GP LLC Giant Penn LLC 5738 Smithfield St. $1. (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $1,100,000).

Tips to “Yard Your Way” This Summer

(NAPSI)—Homeowners can put their own spin on their personal outdoor space this summer by adopting a “yard your way” attitude, advises the TurfMutt Foundation, which is celebrating 15 years of advocating for the care and use of yards, parks and other green spaces.

The act of “backyarding,” which is using yards, parks and other green spaces for activities typically associated with indoor life, such as dining, working, entertaining and more, has gained traction in recent years. Now, as the weather warms, the Foundation encourages people to ratchet up their backyarding activities by identifying their personal style and personality.

“Your yard isn’t just for aesthetics,” reminds Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, “It’s purposeful and contributes to our and the planet’s well-being. We encourage you to design your space that shows off your sense of style and supports what is important to your family.”

Here are six ideas to “yard your way” this summer:

Keep business in the front (yard) & party in the back. If you live in a neighborhood with strict homeowner’s association regulations, you may feel hemmed in by

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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

JEFFERSON HILLS

HOME & GARDEN

Recent

Local Real Estate Transactions

MONESSEN

J & R Real Est. Hldgs LLC SFR Workforce Owner LLC

530 Ninth St.1459

Elaine Kerr trustee Darnell Howell 1150 Athalia Ave.

Shawn Prutz Jaromir Gigliotti 1404 Graham Ave.

Anne Marie Harvey Michael Howell 430 Indiana Ave.

Cheryl Vernet Angel Ramos and Norca Perez Rodriguez 117 Linden Ave.

Robin Galper Hansen John Williams 13 Montraver Drive

Estate of Richard Owens Joseph Burgman and Breanna Clouse 1310 Nash Ave.

Mary Fletcher William and Brian Bercik Oneida St.

$94,000.

$35,000.

$126,000.

$12,000.

$85,000.

$180,000.

$69,900.

$2,500.

Mary Fletcher William and Brian Bercik 12 Schoonmaker Ave. $2,500.

Salvation Army Bryan Buckingham 310 Schoonmaker Ave.

Jeffrey Imbrescia David Rice Jr. 413 Scott Ave.

Rocket Mortgage LLC 2C Investments LLC 1229 Walnut Ave.

Michael James Brandt Madeleine Fine 25 Westmoreland Drive

$60,000.

$95,000.

$25,750.

$119,900.

Adam Yarussi Blayne Michael Donovan 173 Pacific Blvd. $177,500.

Phyllis Rhodes Jacob Dudzinski 30 Arch St.

Ana Brandt Jenkins Katie Molek and Brady Andrew Kunsa 1076 Athalia Ave.

MONONGAHELA

John Bellicini Jules and Nicole Branch

416-418 E Main St.

$264,900.

$93,000.

$60,000.

Adam Wallace Touch of Class Properties LLC 519 E Main St. $165,000.

Gerald Moore Brian Nogy 406 Elm Ave. $255,000.

Elizabeth Gillingham Kevin and Francine Gibasiewicz Smith 140 Church St. $140,000.

Veterans Administration Jason Jaki 424 Otis St.

NORTH BELLE VERNON

Harry Jones Brett and Mary Berish

$80,000.

302 Fayette St. $250,000.

Brett Berish Alexis Bianco 420 Jones St. $200,000.

Mountaineer Timber Co. Elite Capital Corp. 140 Jean St.

NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP

NVR Inc. Brian Masci

122 Dana Drive

$60,000.

$308,620.

NVR Inc. Kenneth and Audrey Koerner 124 Dana Drive $341,525.

NVR Inc. Kevin Mark and Christine Marie Schultis 354 Dana Drive

Castlewood Fields L.P. NVR Inc.

374 Dana Drive

NVR Inc. Kevin and Andrea O'Laughlin 119 Dana Drive

Henry Glaneman Michael and Monica Calvert 116 Valley Road

PETERS TOWNSHIP

Eddy Homes Inc. Bruce and Jane Bevilacqua

271 Art Land LLC Brian and Jessica Welsch

490 Harvest View Drive

361 Juniper Way

Stephen Niedenberger Nanda Lal Lamichaney and Dil Maya Neupaney 258 Thompsonville Road

Est. of Jackson R. Brower Jr. Paul and Donna Watson 211 Brookwood Road

Daniel Burgman Timothy and Maya Newborn 125 Cidar Ln

Michael Hrycko Dylan Dzikowski and Cassandra Kostic 355 E McMurray Road

Mary Lou May Evan Patterson

Charles Kelly Angela Herisko

Keith Phillips Debra Weaver

Estate of Nelson Watson Jr. Ryan Patrick Jones

Kinsale Land Partners LLC Andrew Toner and Ashlee Olivo

$447,020.

$85,000.

$419,990.

$433,000.

$1,009,872.

$759,900.

$444,000.

$180,000.

$770,000.

$220,000.

116 Grouse Ct

206 Kousa Ln

124 Old Oak Road

140 Phillips Drive

311 Piedmont Drive

Marc Coleman Nicholas and Sidney Franczak 113 Pleasant View Drive

Stephen Dobscha Thomas Trax

Kinsale Land Partners LLC David and Melody Shearer

George Veselinovic Ryan and Camila L Eskew

Investors Mark Acq. LLC Keith Coyner Jr. and Staci Coyner

271 Quail Run Road

209 Rothaar Ct

104 Scarborough Ln

509A Villa Drive

James Manolakas 3836 Washington Road LLC Washington Road

Nicola D'Abarno Jonathan Hamm

Venetia Pointe Home. Inc. Marcia Hill Vastine

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what you can do in the public-facing areas of your yard. But you can use the backyard to really highlight your style, whether it’s cozy and family friendly or modern and sleek.

Be sensible & sustainable. What you choose to plant in your yard can affect climate change on a microlevel, and eco-conscious homeowners know selecting native plants is good for the environment. They are more resilient, require less water and promote biodiversity. BONUS: They are also easier to maintain.

Doing budget backyarding is OK. Your yard is full of cost-saving measures that budget-conscious families can take. Skip the fancy restaurant and dine alfresco on your patio. Host a family movie night on a blanket of backyard grass. Or consider trading a pricy weekend getaway for a backyard staycation.

Nurture biodiverse digs. Human-made and synthetic environments have changed the landscape, so pollinators and wildlife rely on yards and community green spaces to bring equilibrium to the ecosystem. Planting for these local critters can turn your backyard into a private nature preserve.

$235,000.

$580,000.

$140,000.

$205,000.

$240,000.

$349,900.

$212,900.

$195,500.

$550,000.

$2,768,838.

$170,000.

115 Grouse Ct

201 Settlers Ct

Angela Herisko George and Charisse Silvestros 324 Braeburn Drive

PLEASANT HILLS

Lisa Marie Vari Po Taw and Paw Ku

At Last Enterprizes LLC Joseph Kowalski

William John Winge Central Penn Capital Management LLC

Joseph Brendel Michael John Petrilli

134 Old Lebanon Church Road

330 Caryl Drive

327 Maize Drive

116 McClellan Drive

$256,500.

$419,000.

$1,375,000.

$175,000.

$270,000.

$165,000.by sheriff's deed.

$260,000.

DIY your lawncare…or don’t. If you are a weekend warrior who relishes DIY projects, taking care of your yard yourself can be an excellent choice. But there is no shame in your backyard game if you outsource yardwork so you can spend your time outside just enjoying your yard. You could also have a landscaping crew do the basic mowing and maintenance so you can spend your time enjoying gardening or just enjoying the yard.

Park it for outside time. Community greenspace and neighborhood parks make it possible to “yard your way” even if you don’t have an outdoor space to call your own. Want to sit under a shade tree and read? A community park often

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ROSTRAVER

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

Seller

Recent Local Real Estate Transactions

Thomas Igoe Scott Mohr 185 Mt. Pleasant Road $190,000.

Tiffany Schuster Adair Joseph Piper 558 Rosewood St.

RWS Land Co. Inc. Phillip Sinclair Landan Drive $115,000.

SOUTH PARK

L Capital LLC L Capital Properties LLC 870 Connolly Ave.

Patricia Wuenstel Barbara Johnston

Patricia Duffy Shyam Nepal

Carol Hindman Zachary Sovitski

Maya Nicole Beatty Bonacci Ventures LLC

Hidden Ridge Ct Unit 201

Hidden Ridge Court 202

Hawthorne Partners 2 LLC Kelvin and Jo Haga 4249 Hawthorne Drive

SPEERS

US Bank Tr NA trustee Shawn Dupain

UNION TOWNSHIP

Wilmington Savings Fund Society trustee Wayne Eremic

Estate of Thomas McCaffrey David Lynch

Richard Lee Ward PNC Bank NA

Dickey Joe Weekley EQT Production Co. 675 Little Mingo Road OG $20,252.

Kathleen Davidovich Brett and Danielle Bastianini 6079 Pleasant St.

WHITEHALL

Jeanne Amlumd Kris and Momoko Kitani 5411 Fieldcrest Drive $137,000.

Jonathan Novak Joseph Wanat and Taylor Balliet 4205 Hamilton Road $217,500.

Adam Marasco Lindsey Marie Gelles 4711 W Barlind Drive $209,000.

Kevin Amlund John and Jessica Carlson 5243 Caste Drive $245,000.

Robert Och Kristine Miller 3185 Longwood Drive $185,000.

Weyman Associates Castle Village Inc.

300 Weyman Road $1. (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $22,143).

Jon Homer Bryan Stein 5013 Brownsville Road $220,000.

Zexing Cheng Gage and Emma Bowman 102 Providence Way

Marlex Properties LLC Libby Cataldo and Caitlin Elizabeth Reitz 4819 Rolling Hills Road

L Capital LLC L Capital Properties LLC 4527 W Brightview Ave.

$280,000.

$219,900.

$317,505.

NVR Inc. Kiana Harris 265 Chesna Drive $304,050.

Dolores Bell Janet Obrien 50 Hennig Drive $236,700.

Jeffrey Collier Kendon and Katelyn Freeman 4914 McAnulty Road $180,000.

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offers these kinds of resting spots. Want to do a little hiking but not travel hours out of town? An urban trail system is an excellent opportunity to hoof it close to home. You can even stake a claim to your own patch of nature and try your hand at growing things through community gardening programs.

To learn more about creating the yard of your dreams, visit TurfMutt.com and sign up for the e-newsletter. Look for Mulligan the TurfMutt on the CBS Lucky Dog television show.

ASK EXPERTS the ASK EXPERTS

ASK EXPERTS the ASK EXPERTS

If you have questions for our expert, send your questions to SOUTH HILLS-MON VALLEY MESSENGER, P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 or e-mail news@messengerpaper.com

MATTRESSES AND BEDDING

Q: What is the new “hybrid” mattress made by Serta iComfort, and what are the benefits of owning one?

A: Serta’s iComfort Hybrid mattresses combine our latest breakthrough in gel memory foam technology with our most advanced innerspring support systems. Your body will benefit from pressure point relief, added body support and temperature regulation from our exclusive EverFeel® Triple Effects™ Gel Memory Foam. Mattress-wide comfort and support is achieved with our Duet® Coil System with BestEdge® Foam Encasement. iComfort Hybrid Mattress Features:

• EverFeel® Triple Effects™ Gel Memory Foam - Advanced material that is infused with Titanium gel beads. Millions of these beads help dissipate heat for a more comfortable sleeping temperature, and provide added support to points of your body that need it the most.

• Duet® Coil System with BestEdge® Foam EncasementIndividually wrapped coil support system, with each coil consisting of a responsive outer coil that conforms and cradles your body; and a firmer coil that gives more support in reaction to weight and body movement.

Visit Highway Appliance today to browse our selection of Serta iComfort Hybrid mattresses, and see for yourself.

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

NEUROPATHY TREATMENT

South Hills Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers

Now Have Hope

Tri State Neuropathy Centers, one of the largest neuropathy treatment practices in the USA is currently scheduling patients at their Castle Shannon office, located at 3757 Library Road.

Dr. Michael Renk, Tri State Neuropathy Centers

Over 30 million Americans suffer from neuropathy and its debilitating symptoms of painful cramping, burning and tingling, difficulty walking, numbness, and even interruption of sleep. Neuropathy has a devasting effect on normal activities that most people take for granted and enjoy. Some of the most common causes of neuropathy are related to diabetes, medications, chemotherapy, and back issues.

“Peripheral neuropathy is a chronic and progressive disease,” said Dr. Michael Renk of Tri State Neuropathy Centers. “Left untreated, peripheral neuropathy will only get worse. It is best to treat it early.”

Since 2013, the eight regional Tri State Neuropathy Centers have steadily grown and successfully treated over 12,000 patients with an advanced technology protocol that addresses the causes of neuropathy rather than the symptoms. The program is noninvasive, painless, drug-free, and is FDA-approved.

Have Tri State Neuropathy Centers help you get back to enjoying all the activities that you love.

To schedule an initial no-cost consultation, call 412-207-2398. Learn more at www.marydancedin.com.

Find out how Tri State Neuropathy Centers program can help you get back to enjoying all the activities that you love.

To schedule an initial no-cost consultation, call 412-207-2398. Learn more at www.marydancedin.com.

"Pothole"

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Q: Why getting a colonoscopy could be the best way to find the answer and save your life in the process.

A: What is one of the greatest success stories in modern medicine, the death rate from colorectal cancer has decreased significantly in the last 30 years. There has been a 2% decline in the rate of colon cancer among Americans every year for the last 15 years.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) develops in the colon or rectum and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 140,000 new cases of CRC were diagnosed last year and more than 50,000 died from the disease.

By Dr Nicholas Bellicini Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates

According to recent studies, both the incidence and mortality of CRC are declining due to improved screening efforts and early detection. However, numerous studies have shown that even greater reduction in CRC could be achieved if more people receive screening colonoscopies.

Nearly all colon and rectal cancers start out as small polyps that can become larger and progress to dysplasia and cancer.

Several different types of polyps can form in the colon, but the most common and important are adenomas. These are the polyps that most often transform into cancer. The goal of CRC screening exams is to detect and remove adenomas before they progress.

Numerous tests are available for CRC screening, but the gold standard is the colonoscopy. For the procedure, the patient is comfortably and safely sedated, and a thin, flexible rubber scope with a tiny camera is inserted into the rectum and advanced gently around the colon. Colonoscopy detects most small polyps and almost all large polyps and cancers, which are then removed and analyzed. The typical exam lasts only 15-20 minutes.

In 2018, the American Cancer Society changed the recommendation for both men and women at average screening risks to begin screening at age 45 instead of 50. If no polyps are found, the exam should be repeated every 10 years. Repeat exams may be considered sooner with people with increased risk factors, such as family history of colon cancer, African Americans, smokers, obesity, or people with inflammatory bowel disease. Age should not be a cut off per multiple societal recommendations. People who are in good health and with a life expectancy of more than 10 years should continue regular colorectal screening through the age of 75.

Dr Nicholas Bellicini is a board certified Gastroenterologist in private practice serving patients in the Mon Valley, South Hills and city of Pittsburgh, including Spartan Surgical Center, South Hills Endoscopy Center, St Clair Hospital and UPMC Mercy.

Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates 100 Stoops Drive Suite 320

SURGICENTER

Monongahela PA 15063

724-565-5164

Local People News

South Park Author Releases Latest Novel

Together - Rated #1 Hot New Release by Amazon

Amazon has rated Jim Caldwell’s latest novel, Bound Together, as the number one rated “New Hot Releases in African dramas and plays.” The South Park independent author explains that it is most likely because one the two main protagonists goes to Rwanda for the Peace Corp. His story in part one of the novel has many descriptions of the land, the customs, taboos and trivia about that section of South Africa. He becomes a victim of the long, historical, racial feud between the Tutsi and Hutu, still remembering the genocide in the early nineties.

However, the second part of the new book is centered on the other central character. The back cover summary teases it like this: “A recent college graduate from Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania, Brock Ziegler stood tall in his prime, athletic and muscular. More than any other exercise, he had a passion for running, including that Friday, days before beginning his two year commitment to the Peace Corps in Rwanda.

Lovable and rambunctious, Alexander was the bright light in Dana and Quentin’s eyes, their first-born. Feeling safe and secure in his car seat, the fourteen-month-old, with a childish giggle, reached up to his mom for his favorite snack, a cup of Cheerios. On the road that fatal morning, was there some unearthly design that predestined the two to be bound together for life?”

When asked to describe the storyline further, Caldwell put it this way: “There are bonds that are natural such as parents and family; bonds that are chosen such as marriage and friends and bonds that life’s traumas create.”

Bound Together is available on Amazon at this shortened direct link: https://tinyurl.com/Bound-Together

AMRHEIN, Patricia (Balash), 95, of Bethel Park, died on May 4. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

BECKER, Shirley, C., 88, of South Park, died on May 10. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

BERCIK, Marcia, 64, of Fallowfield Township, died on May 11. Arrangements by HoganMelenyzer Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Charleroi.

BRUNO, Sam, 83, of New Eagle, died on May 17. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

BURKHARKT, Mary, Theresa, 87, of Bethel Park, died on May 8. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

CAMPISI, Joseph, JR., 67, of Bethel Park, died on May 6. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

CECOTTI, Carolyn, J. 82, of West Mifflin, died on April 27. Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc., South Park Township.

COWDEN, Bethoe, Lewis, 95, of Pleasant Hills, formerly of Clairton, died on May 14. Arrangements by Stephen D. Slater in Jefferson Hills.

CUMMINGS, Michael, C., “Pop,” 72, of South Park, died on May 10. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

DEVORE, Robert, J., 85, of Canonsburg, formerly of Penn Township, died on May 3. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

DOWLING, Mary Joann, 86, of West Newton, died on May 2. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

DULAC, Michael, D., SR., 76, of Monongahela, died on May 9. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

Recent Local Death Notices

FERENCIC, Dolores “Do,” 88, of Bethel Park, died on May 11. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

FREELANDER, Marlene, F. 81, of West Mifflin, died April 28. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

FRERE, Raymond, “Bud,” 68, of Carroll Township, died on May 4. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

GEORGE, Linda, Stevens, 77, of Jefferson Hills, died on May 18. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

GESSER, George, M., 75, of Elizabeth, served in U.S. Marine Corps., died on May 9. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

HANUS, Deborah, Ann, (Urban), 63, of New York City, formerly of Finleyville, died on April 29. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

HARDEN, Larry, B., 80, of Bethel Park, died on May 9. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

HINSON, John, 71, of Bethel Park, died on April 30. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

HUWEART, Chris, 48, of Belle Vernon, died on May 17. Arrangements by Carl J. Spallino Funeral Home in Charleroi.

JANCUSKI, Mary Ann, 77, of Finleyville, died on May 14. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

JASINSKI, John, 100, of Donora, died on May 18. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

KARRENBAUER, Donald, W., 85, of Eighty-Four, died on May 4.

Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

KUSH (Reola), Norma Lee, 89, of Bethel Park, died on May 12. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

LAMMIE, Robert, 73, of Bethel Park, died, on May 10. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

LEACH, Regis (Hop), JR., 92, of Monongahela, died on May 18. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

LEE, Edward, 64, of Monongahela, died on May 15. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home in Monongahela.

MATTHEWS, Donald, 56, of Jefferson Boro, died on May 16. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

MARTIN (Beck), Judith, A., 87, of South Park, died on April 29. Arrangements by David J. Henney Funeral Home, Library.

MCGRIFF, Myesha, Shareese, 30, of Coal Center, died on May 7. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

MCKERNAN, Janet Ann, 84, of Pleasant Hills, died on May 19. Arrangements by Stephen D. Slater in Jefferson Hills.

MCQUEARY, Curtis, Wayne, 57, of Jefferson Hills, died on May 8. Arrangements by Stephen D. Slater in Jefferson Hills.

MILLER, Dolores, “Dolly,” 94, of Whitehall, died on May 15. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

MORRIS, Regina, 75, of Finleyville, died on May 9. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

NAGEL, William, A., JR., 87, of Elizabeth, died on May 7. Arrangements by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc., South Park Township.

NICOLO, Dr. Enrico, 79, of Jefferson Hills, died on April 28. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

PARNELL, (Revetta), Laurie, J., 68, of Monongahela, died on April 30. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home, Monongahela.

PASCARELLA, Joseph, L., 79, of Monongahela, died on April 28. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home, Monongahela.

RILEY, Thomas, Gordon, Sr., 89, of North Charleroi, died on May 1. Arrangements by Hogan-Melenyzer Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Charleroi.

SHAFFER, Joel, E., 64, of Finleyville, died on April 28. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

SHAW, Frank, “Gene,” E., 83, Former Navy Vet., of Bethel Park, died on May 9. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

STOTESBERY, Ted, 56, of South Park, died on April 30. Arrangements by Paul L. Henney Memorial Chapel in Bethel Park.

SUTY, James, R, JR., 52, of Finleyville, died on May 2. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

TARBELL, James, “Jim,” 64, of South Park, died on May 2. Arrangements by Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home in Pleasant Hills.

WATKA, Kenneth, A., 62, of Monongahela, died on May 2. Arrangements by Marshall Marra Funeral Home, Monongahela.

WILKES, Diana, 78, of Peters Township, died on May 8. Arrangements by Kegel Funeral Home, Finleyville.

Classifieds

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Reach over 50,000 local readers

To submit a FREE private party classified ad, write down your ad on paper, or an index card, and mail to: The Messenger, P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

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* NOTICE: FREE private party classified ads are not accepted over the phone. Voice-mail messages for FREE classified ads will not be accepted, and messages are not able to be returned. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. REAL ESTATE, RENTALS, HELP WANTED, AND ALL OTHER BUSINESS AD RATES –

The Messenger has established a maximum limit of Five(5) FREE classified ads per issue per private party or individual. Any ads submitted that exceed this maximum will require payment. Our FREE classified ads are intended to be a community service for private party or individuals selling personal goods and items.

Any classified ads that are deemed to be from a resale shop, thrift store, flea market, reseller or other retailer are considered “business” ads, and do not qualify for the FREE classified ads. ________________________________________________________________________

** FREE CLASSIFIED AD POLICY – The Messenger has established a maximum limit of Five(5) FREE classified ads per issue per private party or individual. Any ads submitted that exceed this maximum will require payment. Our FREE classified ads are intended to be a community service for private party or individuals selling personal goods and items. Any classified ads that are deemed to be from a resale shop, thrift store, flea market, reseller or other retailer are considered “business” ads, and do not qualify for the FREE classified ads.

1983 FORD MUSTANG - 5.0, T-tops stick shift. Less than 58,000 miles. Must see this beauty. Serious callers only. 724-802-2305 ask for Val.

2008 KEYSTONE COUGAR - 5th wheel. 27/5 length. Excellent condition garage kept. Must sell. $8,500 obo. Call 412-508-7048 and leave call back number.

2011 CAN AM SPYDER RT - Limited, 22,000 mi, custom paint and seat, excellent condition, $8,200, 724-344-2020

HARLEY DAVIDSON CHROME TOOLBOX –Old school, teardrop. Softail. $50. 724-4660628

1989 CADILLAC SEDAN DEVILLE –104,000 miles, need some body work and mechanical work. $950. 724-929-9448

AUTO RACING MAGAZINES - Rare vintage. Twenty “Speed Age” issues c 1951 thru 53. Call for details. $60 all. Munhall, 520-2715869.

PA ANTIQUE CAR LICENSE PLATE - Antique historic car purple plate in my name, ready for transfer. $100. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION JACK - to remove and install automatic and manual transmission, 800lb capacity. New in box. $150. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

2009 HARLEY DAVIDSON DYNA SUPER GLIDE - 17,000 miles, Python pipes, Detachable bags and windshield, New tires and battery. Super tuner. Many other extras. Excellent condition. $7,400. 412-217-8800

FORD MODEL A – Rear end, 1928 – 1933. Complete. $150. 412-833-6870

TOYOTA CAMRY – Rear factory spoiler. Beige. $60. 412-819-0659

TIRES – Four(4) Michelin X Tour A/S. 10/32, driven only 200 miles. On Toyota chrome wheels, 205/65/15. $600. 412-819-0659

12-FOOT SMOKER CRAFT DEEP V – Life jackets, oars, paddles, anchors, swivel seat. $300. 724-610-8399

KIA SOUL FACTORY RIM & TIRE – 2016, full size. 205/60-16. Brand new. Purchased for use as a spare. Will fit 2014-2016. Jack unit included. 724-244-1134

BOAT CUDDY CABIN – 1982 Chris Craft Scorpion, 21-foot, 350 Mercruiser, 260 HP IO, dual wheel trailer and all accessories. Runs great and good condition. $8,500. 412-384-0952

TIRES – (4) Goodyear Wrangler 255/65/17, Blackwall tires. Like new. $500. 412-9734803

RADAR DETECTOR – Excort. Discontinued. Paid $500 years ago. Sell only $50. 724366-9524

JEEP ‘MOPAR’ BIKE RACK – w/ 2-inch receiver, holds 2 bikes. $125. 412-3844374

FISHING BOAT – 1995 Aluminum, Deep V. Grumman trailer, shore lander, Yamaha 20HP outboard tiller arm, 2007 livewell, depth finders, battery and charger, perfect shape. Smooth and fast. $3,500. Callo Chuck, 724348-6289

TRUCK BED COVER – Foldable vinyl cover for GMC or Chevy. 6ft bed, 3 years old. Good condition. $100. Lv. Mssg. 412-655-7853

71 CHEVY – Tr. C30 Dully, 350 V8 Auto, 3 speed with OD, 8 ft. bed. Call Billy. 724-7975086

CONVERTIBLE CARS - 1950’s/60. 724986-3152

CHROME WHEELS - 18”/ 2015 MKZ. 724986-3152

REACH 50,000 POTENTIAL CUSTOMERSin the South Hills and Mon Valley communities! Advertise your business in the South Hills - Mon Valley Messenger. Call for more information at 412-249-8177. Or e-mail to news@messengerpaper.com. GET 2 WEEKS FREE OF ADVERTISING when you purchase 2 weeks. Learn more at macnetonline.com or give us a call at 800450-6631.

CHILDCARE - SUNSHINE KIDS INC. is NOW HIRING INFANT/TODDLER TEACHERS and TEACHER’S AIDES. Please contact Ms. Tammy at 724-942-1009 or tmain@sunshinekidsinc.com

ADVERTISING SALES – Meet with local business owners. Be friendly, smile, and educate them on how newspaper advertising will help their business. Training provided. Get involved with your community newspaper. Work from home, make your own hours, and have fun creating effective advertising programs for your customers. Call 412-2498177 and ask for Doug. Or, e-mail letter of interest or resume to dhaniford@messengerpaper.com

CUSTODIAN - Thomas Presbyterian Church is hiring a Part-Time Weekend Custodian. This position is for 15 hours per week. Coverage is Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Please email Office@ThomasPres.org for more information or call 724-941-8910.

VOCELLI’S PIZZA AT COOL SPRINGS — Hiring ALL positions. 412-882-2222

HOUSEKEEPER & CLEANING SERVICEneeded $600/Weekly. Working Days: 3days. Time Schedule: 7AM - 1PM. Email: presidentsen@gmail.com

CARPENTERS & LABORERS - J&D Waterproofing and home improvements are hiring carpenters on the home improvement side and foreman/labor on waterproofing . Please call ASAP. 724-746-8870. We’ve been in business 82 years

AUTO & TRUCK MECHANIC - Help Wanted, Part Time. 724-350-5983

LABOR HELP WANTED – Full or part time work. Some carpentry, plumbing, electrical experience helpful. Need drivers license and must pass drug test. 724-350-5983

LOOKING FOR EMPLOYMENT - in the months June, July and August. Available for the Monongahela Pa. area only. Will babysit one child and/or pet for a few days a week. Call Lori at 724-469-1631 or email lopfer205@gmail.com. Please leave voicemail when calling.

Life Insurance---the last tax-free wealth transfer left. For a quote contact Jim Driscoll at 412-343-1100 Driscoll Insurance Enterprises. Proudly serving the Pittsburgh region since 1949.

ADULT MOBILITY SCOOTER - $500. 412881-7392

WHEELCHAIR – Adult, Invacare. $25. 412881-7392

PEMF – Pulsed Electro Magnetic Field is the natural healing and energizing of your body using the patented KLOUD Biotech at home system. Call Glenn Schreiber (412) 913-8954

GOLF CLUBS – With new bag, and many extras. $75. 412-884-3598

GOLF PULL CART – Nice. $10. 412-8843598

BOOMBOX – AM/FM/CD, like new. $35. 412-629-0713

SONY AND MEMOREX BOOMBOXES –AM/FM/CD/Cass. Like new. $50. 412-6290713

SPEAKERS – 15 sets. All sizes. $10 to $40. Offers accepted. 412-629-0713

TURNTABLE – Audio Technica, new. $249. Also have other turntables. 412-629-0713

HONEYWELL – True Hepa for allergies. $125. 412-629-0713

HUMIDIFIER – Vicks, Cool mist, like new. $40. 412-629-0713

U.S. PROOF SETS – 80’s, 90’s, and 2000’s. $8 each. 724-938-8482

FREE ORGAN – Ideal for church. Call 10:30AM – 8:30PM, 412-880-8104. MEN’S SKETCHERS – 11.5, extra wide. In box, never worn. Khaki color. Paid $80 –asking $25. 724-713-8157

CLASSIFIEDS

3 PERSON TENT – 7x7, grey, MarlCont, brand new, never taken out of box. $25. 724-713-8157

VINTAGE CROWBARS – (12) assorted sizes, ranging from 1 foot – 2.5 feet in length. $25 OBO. 724-713-8157

KEN GRIFFEY JR – Autographed baseball glove. Left handed. 724-938-8240

COMMODORE 64 C – Computer. Two(2). 724-938-8240

PRINTER – Panasonic KX-F1600. 724-9388240

WORK BENCH – 5 drawer, 5’ x 3’ x 2’. $40. 724-938-8482

DISPLAY CASE WITH GLASS – handmade, oak finish. Top 48” x 25” x 8”. $25. 724938-8482

SENTRY SAFE – 22” x 17” x 13” $20. 724938-8482

CANVAS DROP CLOTH - 12’x15’ heavy wt., new $20. 412-655-7137

CAR COVER - Honda CRV/Passport/Odyssey $25. 412-655-7137

SPORT CLIMBERS - pair of over-boot. $10. 412-655-7137

CARHART WORK PANTS - size 33x32, never worn, 3pr. $30. 412-655-7137

STACK-ON GUN/STORAGE CABINETDunham’s 21x10x55, new, $70. 412-6557137

PERFECT GLASS BOTTLES - 3/32 oz., $12. 412-655-7137

EXTENSION LADDER – 24’ Aluminum. $40. 724-938-8482

WEAPONS – Nicely sporterized 30-40 Krag Rifle. Russian T-44 folding bayonet carbine. Two(2) 30 round strips of Japanese machine gun ammo. Norway Bayonet with sheath. Will trade for German WWII pistol. 724-330-5041

FLY ROD – Orvis T.L.S. Power Matrix, 4 piece, 9 ft, 5 wt. line. New in original case. $230. 724-684-5169

FLY ROD – Orvis Silver Label, 9 ft, two piece, wt. 5 oz. Brand new in case. $230. 724684-5169

SPITTOON – Union Pacific Railroad. Excellent condition. $50. 724-684-5169

COMBINATION SOCKET SET – 1/4" and 3/8” drive, SAE and metric. 40 pieces. $25. 412-751-5688

CIRCULAR SAW – and blades. $25. 412751-5688

HAMMER DRILL - $20. 412-751-5688

DAISY BB GUN – Model No. 99. Very old. 724-938-8240

STEREO TAPE RECORDER – Akai, X-1800 SD. 724-938-8240

DETACHABLE WINDSHIELD – Sportster. Clean. $150 firm. 724-466-0628

STAINED GLASS LAMPS – Five(5), mint cond. Retail for $1,200. Sell all for $450. 412-341-3677

CYCLONE FENCE – 265 feet, posts, rails and all hardware. $2,500. You haul. Tom –Uniontown. 843-685-6034.

REFRIGERATOR – Side by Side. $225. Tom – Uniontown. 843-685-6034.

MICROWAVE – Countertop. $45. Tom –Uniontown. 843-685-6034.

ELECTRIC STOVE HEATER - $50. Tom –Uniontown. 843-685-6034.

OVER THE RANGE HOOD - $85. Tom –Uniontown. 843-685-6034.

AC DELCO – Supercharger oil, #12345982, 4 oz. 2 for $5. 412-425-0342

WELDING PANTS – 40” x 30”, new. $5. 412-425-0342

WELDING JACKETS – Medium, Large, and Extra Larger. $10. 412-425-0342

BLUE WORK PANTS – Aramark, 40” x 30” and 36” x 30”. $8. 412-425-0342

FIRE BLANKET – New. $20. 412-425-0342

KITCHEN AID MIXER – with many accessories. $500 value new. Selling for only $200. 724-366-9524

TOMATO STAKES – Mine roof bolts, 8 ft., ultimate stake, strong. Lasts forever. $10 each. 724-366-9524

COFFEE TABLE – On rollers, made by Ashley, Oak wood, large in size. Paid $500 – selling only $75. 724-366-9524

GLASS WINDOW – 4x4. Only $25. 724366-9524.

ENTRENCHING TOOL - Soldiers shovel carried on person. East German Army. A quality copy of the US Army tool. Excellent condition, $25. Munhall. 520-271-5869

TIN LITHO TOY MODEL - San Francisco Cable Car with correct colors in ads. About 1:32 scale, friction motor. Excellent condition. $25. Munhall. 520-271-5869.

AXE - made by Plumb, used, 33.5 inches long. Very good condition. $20. Munhall PA. 520271-5869

BOOK: “OUT OF THIS FURNACE” - A Historic novel of early Eastern European immigrants and their lives in America's steel industry. Setting in Braddock, PA $10. Munhall, PA 520-271-5869

KITCHEN AID PASTA ROLLER SET - (3 rollers) for KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Like New - $50.00. Call 412-678-9615.

FREEZER - upright, white, good cond. $100 724-945-5282

CLOTHES RACK - on wheels, heavy duty,adjustable,$45 724-945-5282

ELECTRIC RANGE - white, good cond. $50 724-945-5282

BICYCLE - Diamond Back,"Topanga", 26 inch, mountain bike, good cond. $50 724-945-5282

SHOTGUN - Stevens .410 single shot, v.g. condition $325 724-945-5282

WOOD HEADBOARD - Fits Single to King Size Bed. $10. 412-833-5629

LAMPS - Two Metal Table Lamps. $5 each. 412-833-5629

JEEP RENEGADE T SHIRT - New Gildan Large, Florescent Orange and Green $15. 412-535-3744

LAWNBOY GRASS BAG ATTACHMENT - for Platinum Mower Used. $15. 412-535-3744

BATHROOM SINK BOWL - Newport 17” x 19” White, New In Box $30. 412-535-3744

SHOTGUN - Stevens 410 single shot,very good cond. $290, 724-344-0599

SHIP HOTEL SOUVENIR AND BOOKCeramic plate with ship’s picture, book on Ship from beginning to end. Several vintage postcards. $50 all. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

VINTAGE PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD CALENDAR - Original 1941, complete, includes all months. Very good condition. $50. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

STAR TREK NEXT GENERATION MOVIE POSTER - by Paramount Pictures, 1991. 26” H X 73” W. NCC 1701-D excellent condition, $20. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

BINGO GAME - Monte Carlo. Vintage 1950's. $5. Call 724-684-5531.

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES WANTED

The MESSENGER is the premier community newspaper in the South Hills and Mon Valley area of Pittsburgh. We are a free, monthly publication seeking to expand our coverage, and grow existing territories.

The MESSENGER is looking to add experienced Sales Representatives to our growing team of professionals. Candidates should possess: Strong sales and/or customer service skills, ability to offer clients advice on ad content and design, handle several projects at once, work on a deadline, familiarity with Mon Valley area, reliable transportation, flexible schedule, computer with internet access and a personable, friendly attitude. Preferred candidates will possess: Prior newspaper or media experience, good communication and presentation skills and be motivated, determined and persistent. Interested applicants should email us at dhaniford@messengerpaper.com with a resume and cover letter, or mail to P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243.

KNIFE SET - 11 pcs w/Cutting Board. NEW. Reg $40 Asking $5. Call 724-684-5531.

SEWING MACHINE - in Wood Desk Cabinet w/2 Drawers & Expanding Top. Plus Wood Chair w/Drawer. Very Nice. $25. Call 724684-5531

BARBECUE TOOLS - Set of 4 w/Long Handles. Stainless Steel(USA) $5 for set. Call 724-684-5531

LIGHTHOUSES - 7 Different types/collectibles/sizes. 2 light up. All for $10. Call 724-684-4695.

GLASS - Fenton Hobnail Milk Glass. Salt/Pepper Shakers + Butter Dish w/Cover + Syrup Creamer. Exc. Cond. $70. Call 724684-7250

VINYL LP COLLECTION - 200 albums, 60s70s rock/pop, jazz, comedy. Call for list. 724809-5746

AUTOGRAPHED TIM SMITH CLIMAX BOTTLE - (empty) from Culpepper, Virginia location. $10. 724-809-5746

HARLEY DAVIDSON CHROME TOOLBOX –Old school, teardrop. Softail. $50. 724-4660628

AUTO RACING MAGAZINES - Rare vintage. Twenty “Speed Age” issues c 1951 thru 53. Call for details. $60 all. Munhall, 520-2715869.

PA ANTIQUE CAR LICENSE PLATE - Antique historic car purple plate in my name, ready for transfer. $100. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION JACK - to remove and install automatic and manual transmission, 800lb capacity. New in box. $150. Munhall, PA. 520-271-5869.

TACTICAL FOLDING POCKET KNIFE - 14 function. $12. 724-809-5746

AT&T TRIMLINE TELEPHONE - 210, corded, white. Needs no power. $10. 724-8095746

PENCIL SHARPENER – Sunbeam, Mr. Sharpy, Vintage Battery Powered, works fine. $15. 724-809-5746

RIFLE - Savage 12 22-250 varmint rifle w/ heavy stainless fluted barrel and synthetic stock. Includes a 6x24 Tasco varmint scope and sling. Like new, excellent condition. $800. Ammo available at additional cost. 724-2639540

SHOTSHELLS - 1 box of .410 #6 shot $23. 724-344-0599

LEAD SHOT - good quality, #7 1/2, 25 lbs, $40. 724-344-0599

CEMETERY PLOTS – Two(2) plots, Lafayette Park, Route 40. Veterans or Civilians. $1,000 cash for both. 724-938-7988

GENERATOR – Auto-Lite, 6V-DC, single pulley. $25. 412-833-6870

FRUIT PRESS – Wooden, w/ 14-inch diameter bowl. $200. 412-833-6870

CLASSIFIEDS

CEMETERY PLOTS – Two(2) in Jefferson Cemetery. Located in the Garden of Presidents, tier #131C and spaces 1 and 2.

$1,000. 412-885-1351

HALLMARK ITEMS – Got first 1980 item. 412-464-0913

MISC ITEMS – Sears Bikes, 2 VCR Players, VCR Tapes. 412-464-0913

AQUARIUM – 55 Gallon, good for reptiles. $50. 412-819-0659

MOTOR – Older Johnson, 9.5, outboard. Starts and runs. Needs a mechanic. $150. 724-610-8399.

ELECTRIC MOTOR - Minn Kota. Like new.

$50. 724-610-8399

MOTOR – 9.5 Tohatsu, Outboard. 2018 bought new in 2019. 4-stroke. Low hours. $1,400. 724-610-8399

FISH TANK – 55 gallon, with metal stand. Some accessories also for quick set up. $100. 724-344-8691

AIR TANK – 5-gallon. $10. 412-425-0342

BAND SAW – Hand held, 13 Amp. $90. 412-425-0342

RECIPROCATING SAW – With rotating hand. $15. 412-425-0342

CHEST FREEZER – 15 cubic feet, good condition. $100. 412-916-0600

FISH TANK – And accessories, air pumps, filters, heaters, gravel, hoods, tanks, grass, plants, power filters. 724-258-8086

BENCH TABLE SAW – Task Force, 10-inch, with stand new in box. 724-258-8086

DRILL PRESS – 8-inch, 760-3070 RPM, with light. Never used. 724-258-8086

BARBIE DOLLS – 24 from the 1990’s, plus furniture, cases, clothes, accessories. Good condition. $100 OBO. 724-942-0883

BOAT CUDDY CABIN – 1982 Chris Craft Scorpion, 21-foot, 350 Mercruiser, 260 HP IO, dual wheel trailer and all accessories. Runs great and good condition. $8,500. 412-3840952

COUNTER TOP OVEN – Jeffrey Zakarain. New. $50. 412-881-7392

ADULT MOBILITY SCOOTER - $500. 412881-7392

WHEELCHAIR – Adult, Invacare. $25. 412881-7392

DOGGIE STEPS – two(2) sets. 3 steps on each. $15 for both. 412-881-7392

LAWNMOWER – Toro, with bag. $100. 412881-7392

STEELERS FRAMED POSTER – Super Bowl

XL Champs. 39” x 27”. Perfect. $20. 724929-8259

STEELERS – ‘Pittsburgh Pride’ Champs IX, X, XIII, XIV, XL. Framed. 39” x 27”. Perfect. $20. 724-929-8259

DEER HEAD PICTURE – Silver frame, 16” x

20”. Great for Mancave. Perfect. $5. 724929-8259

JEFF GORDON – Indy Winner, Postal Poster, specialty letter, collector plate, and diecast car. All only $20. 724-929-8259.

12-FOOT SMOKER CRAFT DEEP V – Life jackets, oars, paddles, anchors, swivel seat. $300. 724-610-8399

TIRES – (4) Goodyear Wrangler 255/65/17, Blackwall tires. Like new. $500. 412-9734803

PIRATES BOBBLEHEADS – Five(5) Pittsburgh Pirates, Tom Gorzelanny bobble heads in original boxes. Year 2008. All for $5. 724-929-8259

LORD OF THE RINGS POSTER – 27” x 40” –original movie poster. Super. Only $10. 724929-8259

ATTACK OF THE CLONE POSTER – 27” x 40” – Actual movie poster. Terrific. Only $10. 724-929-8259

MUSIC CD’S – 151 CD’s mostly classics, easy listening. All for only $10. 724-9298259

NORTH BELLE VERNON GRADS – Framed photo of 1946 graduating class. 78 years old in perfect condition. $10. 724-929-8259

COOKBOOKS – 25 Hardback cookbooks and 25 cooking magazines. All in good shape. Only $10. 724-929-8259

HEIRLOOM PLATES – (3) Franklin Mint, gold rimmed, 1992. American Eagle. Only $5. 724-929-8259

CROSS BOW – Barnett 400, 3 new bolts, cocking rope, scope, plyno hard case, $200 OBO. 724-970-9974

SLOT MACHINE - $20 OBO. 724-970-9974

CRAFTSMAN 75TH ANNIVERSARY – 3/8” drive racket. $25. 412-425-0342

PRO SET – Desert Storm collector cards. $10.00 412-425-0342

STAMPS – Savings Bond stamps. $7. 412425-0342

RUGER – Mark I Bull Barrel, Xtra Mag., box and papers. $425. 412-953-7770

REMINGTON – Model 1100, 12 Ga. 26” vent. Barrel, improved Ck. $625. 412-953-7770

REMINGTON - .22 model 582 with Tasco 3x9 scope. $325. 412-953-7770

SEWING MACHINE – Singer. Universal case, new, unopened. $45. 724-941-5292

SEWING MACHINE – Singer. Talent model 3323. New, unopened, in box. $145. 724941-5292

LAWN BORDER – (90 pcs.) Black, metal, 8.5-inches long x 10” H, interlocking. Covers 64 feet. $150, OBO. 724-970-9974

BARBELL OLYMPIC WEIGHT SET – 300 pounds. (2) 25lb, 1-inch hole plates; (8) 10lb, 1-inch hole plates; (4) 5lb. 1-inch hole plates. EIZ Curl Bar – (2) 45lb. dumbells; (2) 35lb.

dumbells; (2) dumbbell bars; (1) Goal Gym 20lb. Kettle Ball. $700 OBO. 724-970-9974. OLD WOODEN – High back rocking chair, with wooden table. Only $50. 724-366-9524

BENCH GRINDER – Black & Decker, 5”. $30. 724-366-9524

PATIO FURNITURE – Wood, with cushions. $100. 724-366-9524

RADAR DETECTOR – Excort. Discontinued. Paid $500 years ago. Sell only $50. 724366-9524

GIRLS BIKE – 12-speed. Pink and white, good condition. Needs 2 tires. $25. 412831-8998

TREESTAND – Climbing Stick, 26 feet. Never used. $30. 412-831-8998

HUNTING BLIND – 2-man popup. Never used, in box. $50. 412-831-8998

ICE SKATES – Mens, black, size 9.5. $15. 412-831-8998

FLOOR JACK – 2 ton. Needs repaired. $20. 412-831-8998

VINTAGE MAGAZINE ADS FRAMED - ready to hang 1940’s 50’s, also whole magazines in great shape in plastic sleeves. 412-4779333 between 10am and 4 pm.

OLD COOKIE JARS - perfect condition. 412477-9333 between 10am and 4 pm. Can send pics.

STARTING LINE-UP FIGURINES - 412-4779333 between 10am and 4 pm. Can send pics.

RUG SCRUBBER - Bissell Deep Clean, new in box. $175. 724-348-5103

5 QT. STAND MIXER - Kitchen Aid Aqua Sky. $200. New in box. 724-348-5103

5 TIER STEEL SHELVING UNIT - 74x48x18. $75. New in box. 724-348-5103

SHOP LIGHT - 48" $20. New in box. 724348-5103

AMERICAN POWER PULLEY - 2 ton capacity $50. New in box. 724-348-5103

GLASS - Fenton Hobnail Milk Glass. Salt/Pepper Shakers + Butter Dish w/Cover + Syrup Creamer. Exc Cond. $70. Call 724684-7250

WOOD LATHE - Floor model. FA FAGAN & EGAN Co. Model 400. Good condition. $600.00 or best offer 724-929-3742.

VINYL LP COLLECTION - 400 albums, 60s70s rock/pop, jazz, comedy. Call for list. 724809-5746

CORDLESS DESKTOP S520 KEYBOARDwith LX5 laser mouse, Logitech. $18. 724809-5746

E-mail your ad to classifieds@ messengerpaper.com today!

COMPUTER MEMORY (RAM) - (4)2GB

DDR3 SDRAM at 13333MHZ. $10. 724809-5746

WINDOW SCREENS - Andersen casement. Two each of three sizes. Price for all. $20. 724-809-5746

AT&T TRIMLINE TELEPHONE - 210, corded, white. Needs no power. Two available. $20. 724-809-5746

PUSH GOLF CART - 3 wheel. Like new. $50. 724-825-0772

LIGHTHOUSES - 7 Different types/collectibles/sizes. 2 light up. All for $14. Call 724-684-4695.

SEWING MACHINE - in Wood Desk Cabinet w/2 Drawers & Expanding Top. Plus Wood Chair w/Drawer. Very Nice. $25. Call 724684-5531

GOLF CLUBS - Wilson 1200 - bag and cart, good cond. $35 724-945-5282

CEDAR CHESTS - (2) $75 each o.b.o. 724945 -5282

ADOPT A REAL FRIEND. We'll make you smile. Satisfaction guaranteed. Washington Area Humane Society 724 -222-7387

FINLEYVILLE BREWING – Old Beer bottles and memorabilia items from Finleyville Brewing wanted. Will pay top dollar! Call 424-215-9385

WANTED ANTIQUES – Sterling silver, old Christmas decorations, old lamps, oriental rugs, paintings, crocks with blue decorations, gold jewelry. Jim Gillespie at 412979-7050 or home 724-348-6203.

20 OR 22 FOOT OPEN BOW SKE BOAT4.0 or bigger motor. Must be in very good condition. Call 724-331-8566.

BUYING SPORTS CARDS – Baseball Cards, Basketball Cards and Football Cards. Don’t throw out that old box of cards from your kid or ex-husband! Give me a call first. Paying Cash. 412-760-2291

BUYING VINTAGE - Sportscards, autographs, old ticket stubs, items from Forbes Field, and Pipers and Condors items. 724205-8620

OLD HOT WHEEL CARS - Redlines made by Mattel. Has the red ring on the tires. Made from 1968 to 1977. I mainly collect them during this era. Mostly any condition. A few or your entire collection, I am willing to look at them. Can meet, or ship. Have a PayPal account. 724-984-9085 please text or call.

OLD INSULATORS - buying porcelain or glass insulators used on utility poles or along RR tracks, also lightning rods. 724782-0539

AUTHENTIC WWII ARMY FIELD JACKET –M65 Regiment jacket, olive. XL. Lv. Mssg. 412-667-8154.

DOGGIE STEPS – two(2) sets. 3 steps on each. $15 for both. 412-881-7392

CHIHUAHUA DOG – Looking to adopt or buy healthy, young (up to 2 years old.) 412567-3952.

FREE GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES - to Forever Homes! 1 Male,1 Female. Excellent temperament! House trained with very good trainable natures & perfect for families with children and other pets! I will not rehome to just anyone. PLEASE email me first at: stephaniechristensen59@gmail.com before Text (312) 932-7651

ADOPT A REAL FRIEND. We'll make you smile. Satisfaction guaranteed. Washington Area Humane Society 724 -222-7387

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 $30 each. For pickup of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724-941-5737.

BCEMETERY PLOTS – Two(2) plots, Lafayette Park, Route 40. Veterans or Civilians. $1,000 cash for both. 724-9387988

CEMETERY PLOTS – Two(2) in Jefferson Cemetery. Located in the Garden of Presidents, tier #131C and spaces 1 and 2. $1,000. 412-885-1351

BURIAL LOTS FOR SALE - 2 Each Side by Side. Monongahela Valley Memorial Park. The Garden of Devotion. $4,600 for both, includes Deed Transfer Fee. Contact: Kim Riffle 301-655-4508.Korif063@gmail.com

CEMETERY PLOTS – (2) at Mon Valley

Servicing the South Hills and entire Mon Valley Residential • Commercial Exterior • Interior Discounts for veterans and senior citizens Call Glenn at (412) 913-4327 or EPSGlenn@gmail.com www.elitepaintsolutions.net

HOME MOVIE TRANSFERS

PHOTO MONTAGE CREATIONS

8mm, Super 8mm, and16mm Projector movies, transferred digitally, frame by frame, for superior clarity. New equipment for 2016. No projector flicker - reasonable rates. VHS, VHS-C, mini-DV, and 8mm tapes transferred to DVD. Photos/slides scanned to montage DVD of special events. One of a kind gifts. 724-2585336 dcheplic@ gmail.com. Website: www.dcheplicmovietransfers and montages.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/debcheplicmovietransfersandmontages/

Memorial Park located in the Garden of Devotion section, 61A, spaces 3 & 4.

$1,000 each. 724-208-9569

MONOGAHELA VALLEY MEMORIAL PARKGarden of the Cross, Burial Lot No. 125-B, Section G, Plots 1,2,3,4. Current value $1,695.00 each. Willing to sell all 4 at 20% discount. 724-872-6270

SERVICES

BRICKLAYER – Chimney repair, glass block windows, 50 years experience. 724-3318566

June’s Housecleaning

Reliable. Honest. References. Weekly or Bi-weekly. Move-ins and Move-outs. 412-651-1794

IT

HANDYMAN SERVICES -electric, plumbing, all your handyman needs. Call 412-253-5163

Monthly Pizza Puzzler!

Win a FREE Large 1 Topping Pizza from Bethel Park 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 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 1 Topping pizza from Vocelli Pizza. Remember to look for a new Monthly Pizza Puzzler every month, and send in your entry form! (*Good only at Bethel Park Cool Springs location. One entry per household per month. Employees of the The Messenger; Haniford Enterprises LLC, or Vocelli Pizza are not eligible.) Please redeem any Pizza Puzzler winning certificates at the Bethel Park location address below. 1001 Cool Springs Dr, Bethel Park, PA 15234

• Official Entry Form • (Deadline for entries is June 15)

Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger. What school district named Dr. William Henderson III as Assistant Superintendent?

When is Family Fun Night in Elizabeth?

How many years has the Messenger paper been published?

Name:

Address:

Phone Number:

Entry forms should be submitted to: South Hills-Mon Valley Messenger, Attention: “Monthly Pizza Puzzler,” P.O. Box 13363, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

Congratulations to the winners of our May Pizza Puzzler contest! Debbie Sweeney- West Mifflin • Jan Klett - Bethel Park

Automotive

Tile | Floor oor