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DECEMBER 2009
Visit us online at www.unionfinley.com SPECIAL SECTION:
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Vol. 6, Issue 6
Holiday Entertaining Guide Page 42
Help Those In Need This Holiday Season! Page 8
INDEX: Local News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Home & Garden . . . . . . . . 36 Your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Kids & Family . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Senior News . . . . . . . . . . . 56 School News . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Library News . . . . . . . . . . 66 Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
“ W E ’ R E T H E N E I G H B O R LY N E W S PA P E R ” Union Township • Finleyville • Gastonville • Eighty Four • Nottingham • Peters Township • Venetia • New Eagle • Monongahela • Elrama • Elizabeth • West Elizabeth • Jefferson Hills • Library • South Park
Spirit of Santa Grows Deep in the Southern Swamplands Cypress Santas Spread Christmastime Joy By Krista Ramsey
D
eep, down deep in the swamps and bayous of the south lie the roots of the cypress trees hanging overhead. Called “knees,” these roots grow out of the water or ground and are sometimes described as “nature’s sculptures.” Somewhere along the line, people began harvesting these roots, without causing any damage to the trees themselves. After a friend sent one to Phyllis Pastore, a lifetime resident of Jefferson Hills, she indulged in her fascination in the oddly shaped formations and began using them to create various types of Santas—creations she’s named “Santa’s Knees.” Tucked away in the outskirts of Jefferson Hills, Pastore has a pseudo-studio her husband Anthony created for her by enclosing their back porch. To make her original creations, Pastore orders the roots from Louisiana Cypress Products, which boils them, removes the bark, and dries them in a kiln. Upon receiving a fresh order, Pastore uses acrylic paints, and her imagination, to create patriotic, Victorian, Olde World, traditional, and even Steelers Santas. “The bumps become a bag of toys, his mittens, or trees,” says Pastore. “It just depends on what I see there that day.” She studies each one before beginning to paint, deter(See Cypress Santas, Continued on page 35)
Phyllis Pastore of Jefferson Hills creates “Santa’s Knees” from cypress roots in her home workshop.
OMH to Hold a ‘Frontier Christmas’ in South Park Come join the Oliver Miller Homestead Associates on Sunday, December 13, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. as they celebrate in traditional ways. The Homestead will be decorated simply with greens, pinecones, berries and other natural materials. The stone house will come alive with music as we feature Dorothy McClelland singing ancient and traditional carols with Phil Haines playing the viola and Greg Evans the violin. Members of the Bethel Park High School string orchestra will be playing in the barn.The focus in the kitchen will be on puddings. Spinning, weaving, quilting, and blacksmith work will be demonstrated. Tours of the Stone House, Log House, springhouse, forge and barn will be given. The Oliver Miller Homestead is located in South Park. For more information, visit www.olivermiller.org or call412-835-1554.
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Be Patient, Hold Out For Natural Gas Royalties Dear Editor; If you live here, chances are that the Chesapeake Energy Company and others are trying to lease the energy right under your property. Don't do it! Many people have agreed to 1 or 2% royalties, while others have reached in the neighborhood of 40%. Wait! Organize! Have a community meeting with your State Representative, David Levdansky, to determine the most advantageous agreement for all concerned. You will achieve better results with an organized effort coordinated by your Representative leader. Get David to get you better results than you can get by yourself. Just ask the people who agreed to 1%. Gene Kuban, Eighty Four, PA
Letters to the Editor can be submitted via e-mail to editor@unionfinley.com or by mail to P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332. All Letters to the Editor must be signed and must contain the author’s return address and telephone number for verification. Letters will be printed as submitted whenever possible; however, we reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and taste, and to refuse to publish any and all letters received. Letters to the Editor represent the unsolicited opinions of our readers and do not reflect the views or opinions of the UnionFinley Messenger, its owners, editorial board, or writing staff. No compensation is offered for any submission, and the author assumes all responsibility for the accuracy and ramifications of their submission.
Christmas Candle Centerpiece Class at Mingo Park The Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation will be offering a Christmas Centerpiece class on Saturday, December 5 at 10:00 a.m. The program will take place at the Mingo Creek Park Office. Participants will be making a bees wax candle to adorn a fresh pine holiday centerpiece. All supplies will be provided, please bring a pair of scissors and cutters. Reservations are limited and can be made by calling the Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation office at 724-228-6867. $15.00 per person. Mingo Creek Park is located 13 miles east of Washington off of Route 136.
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Road Traveled The
LESS
Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Department Craft Show Raises Funds
By Wild Willy Frankfort
Through Different Eyes
Barbara Bauman of Whitehall, displaying her “Creative Designs by Moi” handmade Christmas and fall craft items.
Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Department hosted a craft show on Saturday, November 7, which included a variety of vendors. “All funds raised here today go to help the department,” said Gill Hall VFD fireman James Gallagher.
Manning the bake sale table is fireman James Gallagher and his daughter, Lauren, of Jefferson Hills. Manning said that he had the “best seat in the house” (surrounded by homemade cookies and muffins!).
Lately you may have seen a few articles in the local newspapers about the find that Larry Gallant made along the Montour Trail. Larry believes that a stone monolith was erected at what is now the edge of Peters Creek several thousand years ago. He asked me, as President of the local historical society, to visit the site and give a few comments and thoughts on what he had found. I was more than glad to do this as I knew that Larry is very passionate about pre-history and anything that he might have found would be of some interest. We made our way down the trail and I William “Wild Wily” Frankfurt was surprised to find that there was in fact what appeared to be a, “standing stone” just off the path. It was after we had discussed what the stone might have been, that I noticed what looked to be the remains of a rock shelter. I imparted this information to my friend and a whole new set of ideas were formed. I have written articles in the past describing a group of native people who used stone to build structures. I have reported that the town of Brownsville was at one time known as, “Redstone Old Fort” and that there were at least three other sites known for having pre-historic stone forts in the area. My thoughts on Larry’s discovery were that the stone and others like it were part of some collapsed roof stones from the rock shelter. That the stones were erected there to offer protection from marauding tribes who may have been at war with those who inhabited this rock shelter. If you visit this area you will notice that it would not be hard to attack a shelter from the open plain that is the north of where the opening of the cave would have been. Spears and projectiles could be easily thrown into it from the opposite side of the creek or the water itself. Or it could have barred the easy access of large animals that might have lived in the area. We know that this is all possible. Remains and artifacts to this end have been found at digs in the area and to be quite honest, our area is littered with caves and early Indian villages. Larry Gallant looks at his discovery in the global sense. He holds that transient people moved across the world and exhibited common traits in building, tool making, and in some ways religious beliefs. It’s a common belief and makes sense when we add in the passage of time and geographical change and the nomadic tendencies of indigenous peoples. Having said this, it’s pretty cool that someone found this in our back yard. I am happy and honored that Larry asked me to participate in his find and I am happy that I could offer my thoughts and knowledge. Historical finds such as this are often made when a pair of, “fresh” eyes are brought to bear on a project. Those eyes could be young or old and any information offered can be taken into consideration. You don’t have to have great knowledge or college degrees to make a find… just great passion. I have spent years studying our colonial frontier. Larry’s interests and study are of the pre-historical era. What are yours? Read what you want and learn as much as you can. Do it at your own pace and maybe you will make a discovery. It could happen at any time or any place and often it happens when you least expect it.
Bunola Fire Company Lunch With Santa The Bunola Fire Company is sponsoring a "Lunch with Santa” on Sunday, December 13 from 11 am through 2 pm. Cost is $5.00 and includes lunch, crafts, a visit with Santa, and a drawing for prizes. Contact Peg Lazzari at 412-384-4035 for information.
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Many local children and families participate in the parade each year, marching down Library Road to show off their Halloween spirit.
The South Park Lions Club will celebrate their 50th anniversary next year.
49th Annual Eugene Ocepek Halloween Parade Sponsored by South Park Lions The South Park Lions held their 49th annual Halloween Parade on Sunday, October 25th. The parade was originated by and is named in honor of Eugene Ocepek, a founding member of the club. The parade route started from the David J Henney Funeral Home on Library Rd. and ended at the PAT parking lot in Library. Participants included children and parents from South Park and nearby communities, as well as fire engines from both Broughton and Library Fire Companies, members of the South Park High School Marching Band and the Kennywood trolley. All children participants received a Halloween candy bag, compliments of the Eugene Ocepek, a founding member Lions. Representatives of the South Park of the South Park Lions Club Woman’s Club awarded cash prizes for the still marches in the parade! most original costumes. The South Park Lions Club, which will celebrate 50 years of service next year, is a community service organization dedicated to providing services helping the sight-impaired. Contact the club Secretary, Walt Piemme at 412-831-1550 for more information.
Finleyville Chiropractor Hosts Christmas Toy Drive The Chiropractic Health Center in Finleyville is collecting toys for the Finleyville Salvation Army. The toys must be new and unwrapped, so the presents can be sorted for age appropriateness. "Can you imagine as a child waking up on Christmas morning with nothing under the tree from Santa?" asked Dr. Christine Wittman. "There are so many needy families in the area that will benefit from this toy collection." Toys can be dropped off at the Chiropractic Health Center at 3530 Marion Ave. in Finleyville on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. All toys will be given to the Salvation Army on Wednesday, December 16. For more information, call 724-348-6446 or email drwittman.com.
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PLACES TO GO . . .THINGS TO SEE. . . STUFF TO DO . . . DECEMBER 2 HEARTSAVER CPR - Canonsburg General Hospital will offer a HeartSaver CPR with AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Training class from 6 - 9 p.m., Wednesday, December 2 in the McNary Conference Center. Instructors for this class are certified by the American Heart Association. Participants will receive a two year certification after successful course completion. Registration fee is $25.00. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. To register, call toll free at 1-877-284-2000.
DECEMBER 4 TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS “SOUP & STROLL” - On the first weekend in December, the cherished elements of traditional Christmases past and present will once again combine when Peters Township’s national historic landmark, the 1816 Wright House, welcomes families to a holiday experience set in its 17th century Museum of Westward Expansion. On Friday, December 4th from 4:00 to 8:30 p.m., Peters Creek Historical Society hosts its fourth annual “Soup and Stroll” for all ages. Visitors will dine on a candlelight supper of hearty homemade soups, breads and desserts surrounded by candlelit walkways and rooms, fresh greens, 17th century decorations complete with sleigh and beautiful live music. Admission to the event is $8/adult, $5 children. Takeouts will be available also. For more information, call 724-941-5710. FREE BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS provided from 8:45 to 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 4 at the Peters Township Community Center. The screenings are provided courtesy of Canonsburg General Hospital. For more information, call the Community Relations Department at 724-873-5835. LEGISLATIVE INSIGHT BREAKFAST - The Washington County Chamber of Commerce invites members and their guests to attend our Legislative Insight Breakfast on Friday, December 4 from 7:45 to 9:00 a.m. at the Holiday Inn, Meadow Lands. Join us as we host the Washington County Legislative Delegation
to discuss current legislation and initiatives. The event will be moderated by Tonia Caruso, Comcast Local Edition host and WQED OnQ Contributor. Reservations can be made online or by contacting Debbie Sims at 724-225-3010 or debbies@washcochamber.com.
DECEMBER 4- 5 DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS - The “Dickens of a Christmas” event will be held in Monongahela during the weekend of December 4 – 5, 2009. Festivities kick off on Friday night, December 4 at 6:30 PM with the Ringgold Band playing in Chess Park. Activities at the fire hall will commence around 7:15 PM. There will be visits with Santa, entertainment, food booths, activities for children and more. The event will continue on Saturday, December 5 with the Gingerbread display continuing on display. A Santa Breakfast at First Presbyterian Church, 609 Chess St. Breakfast will be from 8:30 - 11:00 AM. Cost for the Santa Breakfast is $7.00 per child and $3.00 per adult and includes breakfast, two crafts, a visit with Santa, and photo taken by Grilli’s studio. Reservations for the breakfast are needed. Please call First Presbyterian Church at 724258-8300.
DECEMBER 5 FLEA MARKET - Multi-family indoor flea market at the South Park Mobile Estates office/hall on Saturday, December 5 from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Come rain, sleet, or snow. Just one mile south of Trax Farms, on Hidden Valley Drive, off of Rt.88 in Union Township/Finleyville. Look for signs. SAFE SITTER CLASS - offered from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the McNary Conference Center at Canonsburg General Hospital on Saturday, December 5. Safe Sitter is a medically oriented instruction series that teaches boys and girls, ages 11 to 13, how to handle emergencies when caring for young children. Babysitters learn basic lifesaving techniques, safety tips to prevent accidents, how and when to summon help, basic child care tips and age appropriate
activities. The cost of the program is $40 and includes all class material and a Safe Sitter tshirt. To register or for more information, call toll free 1-877-284-2000.
DECEMBER 5 – 6 BREAKFAST OR LUNCH WITH SANTA Trax Farms will be hosting breakfast or lunch with Santa on December 5, 6, 12 and 13. Breakfast starts at 9:30 a.m. and lunch starts at 1:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at our customer service desk. Cost is $8.00. Limited amount of tickets are available, so please buy your tickets in advance. Each child will get to visit Santa. They will also receive breakfast or lunch, do a craft, and receive a special treat. Bring your camera to capture some special moments. Refreshments will be available. (See our website for menu www.traxfarms.com)
DECEMBER 6 PETERS TOWNSHIP HOLIDAY HOME TOUR - If you’ve never gone on a Holiday Home Tour, this will be the year to do it. The tour will be held on Sunday, December 6 and runs from 12 Noon-5 p.m. All proceeds will benefit Watchful Shepherd USA, a child abuse prevention program. The tour, sponsored by Keller Williams Realty, will showcase five homes in Peters Township, Washington County, PA. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $30 or $35 on the day of the tour. FROSTY’S FUN HOUSE AND HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING - Join us at the Peters Township Recreation Center on Sunday, December 6, 2009 to make holiday themed crafts at “Frosty’s Fun House!” Event runs from 2 to 4 p.m. Admission is $2 per Resident / $3 Non-Resident (per child participating) An adult must accompany children. Also join us at the Municipal Complex for the annual Tree Lighting starting at 6 p.m. For more info: 724942-5000. SCOTS-IRISH PIONEER CHRISTMAS - The Oliver Miller Homestead in South Park will celebrate “Scots Sunday”, a fun-filled day that pays tribute to Oliver Miller’s Scottish heritage,
on Sunday, December 6, 2009 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The Homestead will feature Scots dancing, games, food, and talents. The Oliver Miller Homestead, a historic landmark and Whiskey Rebellion site, is located on Stone Manse Drive, just off the circle in South Park. It is open every Sunday through December 13, from 1:30 – 4:30 with the last tour beginning at 4. An admission of two dollars is asked. For more information and a map, visit our website at www.olivermiller.org or contact us at 412-835-1554. ERIC GENUIS IN CONCERT - St. Thomas A’ Becket Church in Jefferson Hills presents Eric Genuis in concert. Also featuring vocalist, violinist and cello. Eric is a composer, virtuoso, pianist and captivating performer. He is an internationally recognized classical musician, composer and performer. He will perform at St. Thomas A’ Becket Church in Jefferson Hills on Sunday, December 6 at 4:00 p.m. The public is invited. There is no charge, but a free-will offering will be accepted. SHEPHERD’S VOICE “SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS” - On Sunday, December 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Riverview Baptist Church, 405 Main St., New Eagle, PA, Shepherd’s Voice will present “Sounds of Christmas”, a program of Christmas music. Following the program, you’re invited to retreat to the fellowship hall where we’ll all enjoy light refreshments, of Christmas cookies and punch. Please mark December 6th on your calendar now so you won’t miss this special evening of fellowship, celebration and Christmas joy! TREE-LIGHTING CEREMONY AND CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY PARTY – At Peters Township Library, Sunday, December 6 from 68:00 p.m. Let’s gather outside the library for this annual tradition as we illuminate a giant ornament-filled tree! Follow us into the library for an evening of crafts and fun for the whole family to enjoy. Refreshments will be served and Santa will be there listening to special holiday wishes!
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DECEMBER 11
ANNUAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL SPAGHETTI DINNER - Once again, #2213 South Hills Elks’ Lodge opens the doors for the Annual Children’s Hospital Spaghetti Dinner on Monday, December 7. Homemade spaghetti plus salad, bread and delicious homemade desserts. Tickets sold at the door: $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under 12; ages 3 and under are free. Doors open at 5:00. Food service and fun is from 5-8 p.m. Take out available. Call 412-831-0616
GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT DINNER Canonsburg General Hospital Chaplain Rev. Cathy Peternel will host a dinner for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one, 6 p.m., December 11, McNary Conference Center. The dinner is open to the public and the cost of the meal is $5.50. Reservations must be made by December 6 by calling 724-745-6100 ext. 4118.
DECEMBER 9 NNCW MEETING - Christmas Party and Taxes: The December 9 (Wednesday) meeting of the Neighbor to Neighbor Community Watch Organization will be held at the St. Francis of Assisi General Purpose Building at 7:00 pm. Tax expert Anna Lilley will give a presentation on 2009 tax year changes and answer question. A Christmas party will be held after the presentation. All are welcome to attend, and if their situation permits, to bring a favorite desert or finger-food.
DECEMBER 10 ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP - will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 10 at Canonsburg General Hospital in the McNary Conference Center. The group will meet the second Thursday of every month. The meeting will be an opportunity for caregivers to share practical ideas in a supportive setting, connect with other families and learn from guest speakers. For more information, call 724-809-6679. RINGGOLD HIGH SCHOOL HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA - Start off your Holiday Season with the combined choirs and bands at Ringgold High School. Come and warm your heart with music of the season, both traditional and modern, from all over the world. The first annual Ringgold High School Holiday Extravaganza begins at 7:00; admission is free. December 10, 2009 at the High School Auditorium. Refreshments will be available.
HOLIDAY DINNER DANCE - #2213 South Hills Elks’ Lodge. Make your holidays shine brighter dancing to the music of “Night Star” on Friday, December 11. Just want to dance $6.00 per person at the door. Reservations can be made by calling the lodge at 412-831-0616. Dinners served 5-8 p.m. Dancing starts at 8 p.m.
DECEMBER 11 – 13 CHRISTMAS MUSICAL - The Fine Arts Department of South Hills Assembly will present their Christmas musical, “Gloria! A Christmas Experience” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, December 11 and 12, and at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 13. Admission is free. South Hills Assembly is located at 2725 Bethel Church Road in Bethel Park. For more information, call 412-835-8900 or visit www.southhillsassembly.org.
DECEMBER 12 BAKE SALE - Jefferson United Methodist Church, 310 Gill Hall Road, will hold a bake sale on Saturday, December 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Cookie trays, cakes, pies, cupcakes, brownies, candy, apricot, nut & Poppyseed rolls. Pre-order Christmas rolls – Poppyseed $8.50, nut or apricot $8.00 each. Pre-order by phoning 412-653-3222 option 3. Pick-up for pre-orders: Friday, December 11 from 6-7 p.m. and Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
HOLIDAY WINE AND CHEESE TASTING Trax Farms, Arrowhead Wine Cellars and Boar’s Head present a “Holiday Wine and Cheese Tasting” on Saturday, December 12, 2009. The event will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m at the Trax Farms Event Room. Cost is $30.00 per person. Deadline for reservation is December 5, 2009. Call 412-835-3246 ext 114 for reservations. Age Limit: 21+ (proper identification required)
DECEMBER 14 OLDIES DANCE - Parents Without Partners is sponsoring an Oldies Dance on December 14 (Christmas Dance) from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at the Royal Place Restaurant, 2660 Library Rd. Music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s by D.J. Steve. Admission is $5 for PWP members and $7 for non-members. Cash bar, menu items available. For more information, call Barb at 412-8352688.
DECEMBER 12 – 13
DECEMBER 28
BREAKFAST OR LUNCH WITH SANTA Trax Farms will be hosting breakfast or lunch with Santa on December 12 and 13. Breakfast starts at 9:30 a.m. and lunch starts at 1:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at our customer service desk. Cost is $8.00. Limited amount of tickets are available, so please buy your tickets in advance. Each child will get to visit Santa. They will also receive breakfast or lunch, do a craft, and receive a special treat. Refreshments will be available. (See our website for menu www.traxfarms.com)
OLDIES DANCE - Parents Without Partners is sponsoring an Oldies Dance on December 28 (New Year’s Dance) from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at the Royal Place Restaurant, 2660 Library Rd. Music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s by D.J. Steve. Admission is $5 for PWP members and $7 for non-members. Cash bar, menu items available. For more information, call Barb at 412-8352688.
DECEMBER 13 LUNCH WITH SANTA – The Bunola Fire Company is sponsoring “Lunch with Santa” on Sunday, December 13 from 11AM through 2PM. Cost is $5.00 and includes lunch, crafts, a visit with Santa, and a drawing for prizes. Contact Peg Lazzari at 412-384-4035 for information. FRONTIER CHRISTMAS - Come join the Oliver Miller Homestead Associates on Sunday, December 13, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. as they welcome the winter season and celebrate in traditional ways. The Oliver Miller Homestead, a historic landmark and Whiskey Rebellion site, is located on Stone Manse Drive, just off the circle in South Park. It is open every Sunday through December 13 from 1:30 – 4:30 with the last tour beginning at 4. An admission of two dollars is asked. For more information and a map, contact us at 412-835-1554 or visit our website at www.olivermiller.org.
DECEMBER 31 GALA NEW YEARS EVE PARTY - #2213 South Hills Elks’ Lodge. Party hats, noisemakers, and champagne! Doors open at 6 p.m. for cocktails. A sit down dinner served promptly at 7 p.m. Choose from entrees: Filet and shrimp, stuffed chicken breast or crab stuffed salmon. Put on your party hat and dance to the fabulous music of “Teaser” music from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Toot your horn and toast the New Year with free champagne at midnight, then finish the evening with a luscious continental breakfast and one last dance. $50.00 per person includes 3 drink tickets available all evening. Tickets can be purchased Tuesday, December 1 from 7-9 p.m. at the Elks’ Lodge. Have your dinner selections in mind when you purchase your tickets. Make your reservations early. Come and join us to celebrate new beginnings in 2010. All are welcome! Call 412-831-0616. South Hills Elks Lodge #2213 is located at 2425 South Park Rd., Bethel Park.
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HELP THOSE IN NEED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Stop by to any of these generous local businesses and organizations in December to make a donation to help the less fortunate this holiday season. West Mifflin Imaging Partnering with Salvation Army to Keep Our Neighbors Warm this Winter
Finleyville Area Food Bank Seeks Holiday Donations
Bring in any new or gently used outerwear item to West Mifflin Imaging between now and Friday, December 18 and receive a free heel screening for osteoporosis. It's our way of saying thank you for helping us support our community this winter season! We would greatly appreciate any new or gently used outerwear items, from infant to adult. Outerwear items may include coats, sweaters, hats, scarves, gloves and boots. West Mifflin Imaging is conveniently located on Lebanon Church Road in West Mifflin, next to Target. Any questions, please call 412-650-7830.
Due to the bad economy and loss of jobs and high cost of food the food pantry is serving more and more families. We are trying not to turn anyone away. We are asking for your help to produce Christmas Dinners for the clients on our food bank list and we are also having a Christmas Dinner at our service center. If you can help please send donations to: Finleyville Food Bank , 3595 Washington Avenue , Finleyville, PA 15332 May God Bless you in a mighty way.
Jefferson Hills Church Kicks Off “One Warm Night” Charity Drive
Toys For Tots in the Mon Valley
By Charlotte Hopkins Davies Ford of Charleroi is partnering with the Mon Valley Leathernecks for their “Toys for Tots” drive. Toys can be dropped off at Davies Ford as well as 50 other locations throughout the Mon Valley. Toys will be distributed to children in need on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at the Donora Social Hall, located at 601 Meldon Avenue in Donora. Toy distribution will take place between 10 AM and 4 PM. For more information, call Wally at 724-379-8888.
Partnering up for the Toys for Tots program are Wally Fronzaglio (right), Head of Toys For Tots – Mon Valley Chapter, and Bob Crall, (left, sales representative at Davies Ford.
LifeForce Fitness is Helping Warm Others This Winter Please help us to help others by donating new or used gloves and new hats to help keep the homeless warm this winter. Donations can be made at LifeForce Fitness, 270 Curry Hollow Road, Pleasant Hills (formerly Gold's Gym) until December 31, 2009. Receive a FREE day pass or aerobic workout with your donation (limit one per person).
The Union-Finley Messenger is a proud member of the following organizations:
With cold weather fast approaching Christi Hughes Pastor Floyd Hughes of CrossRoads wrapping bread Community Church has began his annual to pass out; “One Warm Night” tradition. It started last baked goods year with people in the community coming were donated by West to the church for a winter coat, hat and Mifflin's Panera gloves. This year he has taken it one step Bread" further and is passing out coats and blankets to the homeless and communities in need. The "One Warm Night" volunteers are meeting at the CrossRoads Community Church, in Jefferson Hills on the last Saturday of each month. They start the night by wrapping baked goods donated by Hostess and West Mifflin's Panera Bread and Walmart. They then load their cars with a cooler of coffee and boxes of blankets and coats, as well as, hats, gloves and scarves and head into downtown Pittsburgh and other areas as needed. Pastor Hughes stresses that this is not just a church activity; that all are welcome to volunteer in the event. During the cold months, CrossRoads and the volunteers will be traveling to different areas in need and repeating his “One Warm Night” tradition. CrossRoads will also be collecting donations of coats and blankets of all sizes; throughout the winter months. If anyone in the community is interested in participating or would like to donate items; contact Pastor Hughes at 412-384-9278. Also, if you know a community who will benefit from “One Warm Night” please inform Pastor Hughes.
Emergency Clothing Available The Finleyville Food Pantry has clothing available for those in an emergency situation. Anyone in need is encouraged to call 724-348-7821. Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce
Finleyville Chiropractor Hosts Christmas Toy Drive The Chiropractic Health Center in Finleyville is collecting toys for the Finleyville Salvation Army. The toys must be new and unwrapped, so the presents can be sorted for age appropriateness. "Can you imagine as a child waking up on Christmas morning with nothing under the tree from Santa?" asked Dr. Christine Wittman. "There are so many needy families in the area that will benefit from this toy collection." Toys can be dropped off at the Chiropractic Health Center at 3530 Marion Ave. in Finleyville on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. All toys will be given to the Salvation Army on Wednesday, December 16. For more information, call 724-348-6446 or email us by visiting our website at drwittman.com.
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Pink Pamper Benefit Event A Day of Pampering, Indulgence, Nurturing, and Kinship Raises Funds for Cancer Patient Assistance The Pink Pamper benefit event, which raises funds for Hillman Cancer Patient Assistance Fund, was held at the Crown Plaza Hotel near South Hills Village on Sunday, November 1. The festivities included a Chinese auction, a silent auction, and a cocktail reception. Local merchants contributed gift baskets, gift certificates, and products for raffle and sale. Participants could also enjoy free beauty seminars, massages, manicures, and hair styling. A small donaJoyce Pruni of South Park tion was models clothes from J. Jill. requested for all services. In addition, Central Blood Bank held a blood drive and many healthcare providers were on hand to showcase their products and services. Breast cancer survivors modeled clothes from J. Jill. Among the models was Joyce Pruni of South Park and Tanika Cromerdie-Daniels of KDKA News. Pruni is a five-year survivor and CromerdieDaniels is a 2 1/2-year survivor. Joyce Pruni and Tanika Cromerdie-Daniels are breast cancer survivors and participated in the Pink Pamper benefit event.
If you would like to donate time, money, or just learn more about the Pink Pamper, go to www.thepinkpamper.org.
Nativity Scene at Brightwood Christian Church Participating in a live Nativity Scene at Brightwood Christian Church are Leslie and Rob Browell, Shirley and Bonnie Wolowski, Shealyn and Ryleigh Steadman.
If you want to discover the true meaning of Christmas, visit the Live Nativity Scene at Brightwood Christian Church in Bethel Park. The Nativity Scene is a tradition at Brightwood Christian Church and it is presented on the front lawn of the church. The Nativity Scene uses costumed members of the congregation, a barn stage, and live animals in a fenced in area. This year it will be presented on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday December 21, 22 and 23, from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. There will also be a hospitality table inside the church at Campbell Hall to welcome anyone who wants to come in from the cold to enjoy some hot coffee and cookies. Bring your children and grandchildren; they will love you for it. Brightwood Christian Church is located at 5044 West Library Ave and Center Street in Bethel Park.
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Mon Valley Cloggers Offer Two Free Clog Dance Lessons
The Mon Valley Cloggers will offer 2 free clog dance lessons on January 4 and 11 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The 2 free lessons offer beginners a chance to try clogging (hillbilly tap dance) before purchasing clogging shoes. Those who wish to continue pay $20 for a ten week session. Graduates join our dance group and initially practice both Mondays and Tuesdays, at the same $20 for a ten week session. No partner is required. Call 412-384-6442 to register. Bring your smoothest sole, snug fitting shoes (for dancer safety, floor must be kept dry). The Mon Valley Cloggers are your neighbors and friends dancing to enjoy their common hobby. We are one of the few actively performing Clogger groups in Western Pennsylvania. Experienced dancers are always welcome. Our laminate dance floor is bigger than most stages where we perform. Seating for those not dancing is adjacent. There is a bath room; some dancers come directly from work and change outfits. You can learn more about our group by visiting our website, www.MonValleyCloggers.com.
Mon Valley Actors & Artists Prepare for Final Performance of the Year The students at Mon Valley Actors & Artists are getting ready to celebrate the holidays. Working on their acting and singing skills, the MVAA students are preparing for the December 30 performance of “Uh! OH! Here Comes Christmas.� This will be the end of the holiday session at the studio. Over the next six weeks, these actors will be working on the skills they need to tell the stories presented in their final performance. The students from the Mid-Mon Valley, including Donora, Monongahela, Belle Vernon, and Carroll Township, learning how to tell the story through acting and singing is the focus of this session. Using this wonderful play of stories by Robert Fulghum, author of “Everything I Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten�, the actors will learn how to make their audience laugh, cry, enjoy memories, and share the story of the real Christmas. The performance is scheduled for Wednesday, December 30 at the Schooner Youth Center with a 7:30 p.m. curtain. Tickets are $6 at the door, $5 in advance, and $4 each for groups of 10 or more. The winter 2010 session is ready for registration. The price for the 8 week session is $75 and is open to all levels of experience. It will begin Thursday, January 21, from 6 – 8 p.m. For more information, call Debi Anderson at 724-684-4034.
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Cut Your Own Christmas Tree at Lone Oak Farm Doesn’t quite seem like the Christmas you remember as a kid? Slow down, relax, and visit Lone Oak Farm for an old fashion holiday experience. Leave the fake tree in the attic and select and cut a real tree. Bring the family and roam the thousands of Fraser Firs, Douglas Firs, Canaan Firs, Concolor Firs, Norway Spruce, and Scotch Pines. Your perfect tree is out there and you can be sure it is fresh. A guide and an ATV are available to assist those with special needs. For those less adventurous, a large selection of fresh cut trees also available. While your tree is being prepped for your trip home be sure to visit Lone Oak 1815 vintage timber frame barn. You will find a
Bernie and granddaughter found the perfect tree for Ellie’s house.
selection of wreaths, swage, garland and tree supplies. Free hot chocolate and candy canes are also available. Best of all, Santa visits with kids of all ages on weekends. You’ll want to be sure to leave him with your Christmas wish list. Lone Oak Farm is located 1.8 miles west of the Monongahela Eat ‘n Park on Rt. 136 or 1.2 miles east of exit 44 of the Mon Valley Expressway. The farm is open weekdays from Noon until dark and weekends from 9 a.m. until dark. Tree prices are typically $35-$55 (memories are free and priceless!). Lone Oak takes pride in not selling sparkle trees, holiday trees, twinkle trees, etc. Lone Oak sells Christmas trees!
Matt Bucchianeri found one of Santa’s elves handing out candy canes in the pre-cut trees in the 1815 barn.
Emily Bucchianeri got a tree for her room.
Drilling a big tree for one of our stands.
Santa talks to kids large and small.
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Use Of Deadly Force Topic Discussed By The State Police At NNCW Meeting By Paul Chasko
It’s unfortunate that we need to concern ourselves with this subject but the society we live in seems to dictate that we be informed on self defense. Over 40 residents turned out for the Union Township Neighbor to Neighbor Community Watch (NNCW) meeting on November 4, to hear State Trooper Brian Burden speak on the use of deadly force. Trooper Burden’s presentation centered on the liabilities faced by homeowners who choose to protect themselves, family and home by keeping firearms in the home. Many who have rifles and/or shotguns in the home are hunters who’ve only had occasional thoughts about using them for protection. Others acquire handguns or long guns specifically for self defense. Under what situations is a home-owner justified in using a firearm in and around the home for self defense? This is the question that comes up most frequently and was answered by Trooper Burden. He admitted that there are a great many gray areas that depend on the situation, but in general, the use of deadly force is looked on as justifiable by the law if: There is forced entry and… if deadly force is immediately necessary to prevent serious injury, death, kidnapping or rape to you or a member of your household. But, and there’s always a “but,” you must keep in mind that there may come a time when you have to convince a judge and/or jury that the above conditions existed. Trooper Burden also admitted that in such a situation an individual would have little time to make rational decisions. He also said the best first steps if you suspect someone is trying to break in would be to call 911 and to keep the line open and warn the intruder that you’re armed and have called
Trax Farms For The Holidays! Trax Farms Store Is Ready For You! (To the tune of Santa Claus is Comin to Town) Oh you better stop by, be ready to shop, vegetables, candles, wine and the lot….. Trax Farms store is ready for you! Decorations and wreaths, poinsettias and trees – live, artifical, lit or just green…. Trax Farms store is ready for you!
PA State Trooper Brian Burden and NNCW Chairperson Linda Evans prepare to kick off the Nov. 4 meeting
the police. He also added that the use of deadly force is never justification to protect property and that we should all know by now to never open the door to a stranger. If a serious confrontation occurs outside the home then you must take every opportunity to retreat into the house or other area of safety. According to the Trooper, the law states that if you have an avenue of retreat, you must take it before you use deadly force and no, you cannot shoot someone outside and drag them back over the threshold. Forensics is certain to indicate this was done and you’d be in a heap of trouble. Some of the attendees thought as I did; that an intruder has more protection under the law than an armed homeowner. The next NNCW meeting will be on Wednesday, December 9 at 7:00 pm in the St. Francis General Purpose Building just off Rt.88 in Finleyville. Tax expert Anna Lilley will be speaking on income tax issues. There will be a Christmas party after the presentation. Anyone is welcome to attend. Attendees are asked to bring a favorite desert or finger-food for the party.
St. Clair Hospital Offers Note Cards of Neighborhood Scenes Just in time for the holidays, St. Clair Hospital’s newly designed Gift Shop is selling note cards featuring South Hills’ landmarks captured by Pittsburgh-bred artist Leroy G. Pettis. The Neighborhood Scenes note cards can be purchased in the Mt. Lebanon hospital’s Fourth Floor Gift Shop for $12.95, which includes a package of 12 cards, plus envelopes. Proceeds benefit St. Clair Hospital Auxiliary. Some of the familiar, local scenes available include the 1830 Log House in Upper St. Clair, Old St. Lukes Church in Scott Township, the Rennerdale Duck Pond, and Uptown Mt. Lebanon. The Gift Shop is open seven days a week. Call 412-942-4158 for more information.
The smells of Trax Farms bakery – of cookies, cake and pies. Get Deli treats that cant be beat – turkey, ham, and many sides. Gifts for the season, shippers of fruit, baskets and candies, lots of good loot…. Trax Farms store is ready for you! So pick up your stockings, tree skirts and chimes, handmade décor of sweet smelling pine… Trax Farms store is ready for you! Christmas Blessings are wished from all of us here, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year….. Trax Farms store is ready for you! Breakfast or Lunch with Santa Trax Farms will be hosting breakfast or lunch with Santa on December 5, 6, 12 and 13. Breakfast starts at 9:30 a.m. and lunch starts at 1:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at our customer service desk. Cost is $8.00. Limited amount of tickets are available, so please buy your tickets in advance. Each child will get to visit Santa. They will also receive breakfast or lunch, do a craft, and receive a special treat. Bring your camera to capture some special moments. Refreshments will be available for parents to purchase in the café. (See our website for menu www.traxfarms.com)
Holiday Wine and Cheese Tasting Trax Farms, Arrowhead Wine Cellars and Boar’s Head present a “Holiday Wine and Cheese Tasting” on Saturday, December 12, 2009. WOW your guests with delicious ways to entertain this holiday season! Learn how to make fabulous appetizers with Boar’s Head Specialty Cheeses. Bring a friend as your holiday gift to him and her. Discover the joys of winemaking and so much more. The event will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m at the Trax Farms Event Room. Cost is $30.00 per person. Deadline for reservation is December 5, 2009. Call 412-835-3246 ext 114 for reservations. Age Limit: 21+ (proper identification required) Indoor Winter Flea Markets Trax Farms will hold Indoor Winter Flea Markets during January, February and March 2010. Watch your mail in December for information regarding dates and how to become a vendor!! Visit Us! Trax Farms is located at 528 Trax Road, Finleyville, PA (Rt. 88 between Library and Finleyville). 412-835-3246. www.traxfarms.com DECEMBER Store Hours Dec. 1 - Dec. 23: Daily 9-8 Sun. 9-6 Dec. 24: 9-4 Dec. 25: CLOSED Dec. 26: 8-6 Dec. 27 – 10-6
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Lights! Camera! Action! Film Production Crew Sets Up Camp at Ringgold High School By Paul Chasko On Sunday, November 15, the Ringgold High School parking lot had a new look. Part of an auto chase scene for a new film – “Love and Other Drugs” was being shot on the section of Rt. 136 from the High School to the intersection at the top of the hill. The scene was to be shot from a helicopter and a special movie chopper was parked on the baseball field waiting for one of the “takes”. The Ringgold High School parking lot was loaded with equipment trucks and a fancy looking trailer lined with doors that I assume were dressing rooms. There was a tent complex at the football field that looked as though it might be for a staging area for the movie folks between “takes.” Security chased me out before any of the major players arrived on scene. The movie being filmed features Jake Gyllenhall and Ann Hathaway. It’s a Twentieth Century Fox production and is directed by Edward Zwick who also directed “Glory” and “Legends of the Fall” among others. The movie drama is scheduled to be released in 2010. This portion of Route 136 will also star in the film.
Tents were set up behind the band bleachers to accommodate all the movie folks between “takes”.
Dickens of a Christmas Event in Monongahela December 4 - 5 The “Dickens of a Christmas” event will be held in Monongahela during the weekend of December 4 – 5, 2009. Plenty of wonderful holiday activities for the entire family! Festivities kick off on Friday night, December 4 at 6:30 PM with the Ringgold Band playing in Chess Park. Santa Claus will arrive to greet those in attendance and light the community Christmas tree. Father Christmas will also arrive with Dickens, and explain how he represents Christmas past and acknowledges Santa Claus as Christmas present. Dickens and Father Christmas will invite those to the antique shops as well. Everyone will be encouraged to visit the gingerbread display at the Presbyterian Church and then are invited to come to the Monongahela Fire Hall for the rest of the evenings acitivites. Activities at the fire hall will commence around 7:15 PM. There will be visits with Santa, entertainment, food booths, activities for children and more. The event will continue on Saturday, December 5 with the Gingerbread display continuing on display. A Santa Breakfast at First Presbyterian Church, 609 Chess St. Breakfast will be from 8:30 - 11:00 AM. Cost for the Santa Breakfast is $7.00 per child and $3.00 per adult and includes breakfast, two crafts, a visit with Santa, and photo taken by Grilli's studio. Reservations for the breakfast are needed. Please call First Presbyterian Church at 724258-8300 by Nov. 24.
Bake Sale at Jefferson United Methodist
The camera folks set up shop in the Ringgold High School Parking Lot.
Jefferson United Methodist Church, 310 Gill Hall Road, will hold a bake sale on Saturday, December 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Cookie trays, cakes, pies, cupcakes, brownies, candy, apricot, nut & Poppyseed rolls. Pre-order Christmas rolls – Poppyseed $8.50, nut or apricot $8.00 each. Pre-order by phoning 412-653-3222 option 3. Pick-up for pre-orders: Friday, December 11 from 6-7 p.m. and Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas rolls will also be available at the bake sale should you not preorder.
Home School Support Group A "Home School Support Group" will be held at "The House" in West Elizabeth, located on 4th street next to the Presbyterian Church. The group will meet the first and third Friday of each month at 12:30 pm. The support group is for parents of children who are home schooled or participating in Cyber School; as well as parents who are considering this type of education. Parents can exchange ideas for lesson plans, ask questions and be there to support each other! For further information contact Charlotte Hopkins at 412-587-1628
A member of the film crew relaxes with a magazine as he waits for the actors to arrive.
Washington City Mission Receives Donation From Motorcycle Club The Blue Knights Motorcycle Club of the Washington Masonic Lodge No. 164 F&AM recently presented Washington City Mission with a check for $1,000 from the proceeds they raised in their recent motorcycle run. Pictured to the right (Front, l to r) are Doc Jones, Mission Vice President Dean Gartland, Dave Richards; (back row) Bill McComas and Bill Wyland.
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Trax Farms Fall Festival By Paul Chasko
From late September thru the end of October, the Trax Farm Fall Festival has become an annual stop for families looking for an ideal Fall fun experience close to home. Pumpkins – every size and shape to fit any kid’s fancy – great food – games – a petting zoo, and more. Check out the photos and see what a fun Fall these folks had. (PHOTOS BY PAUL CHASKO AND SCOTT MCCURDY)
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A Scots-Irish Pioneer Christmas at Oliver Miller Homestead The Oliver Miller Homestead in South Park will celebrate “Scots Sunday”, a fun-filled day that pays tribute to Oliver Miller’s Scottish heritage, on Sunday, December 6, 2009 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The Homestead will feature Scots dancing, games, food, and talents. The Scots Dancers will perform traditional dances in the newly constructed barn, and guests will be invited to join in the fun. The bonfire will add to the atmosphere. A Scots Tea will be on display in the keeping room with more food being prepared in the open hearth fireplace. Historic crafts such as spinning, weaving, quilting, and blacksmith work will be demonstrated. Tours of the Stone House, Log House, springhouse, forge, and barn will be given throughout the afternoon. The Oliver Miller Homestead, a historic landmark and Whiskey Rebellion site, is located on Stone Manse Drive, just off the circle in South Park. It is open every Sunday through December 13, from 1:30 – 4:30 with the last tour beginning at 4. An admission of two dollars is asked. For more information, visit www.olivermiller.org or call 412-835-1554.
South Park Women’s Club Christmas Dinner Since the beginning of the 2009-2010 club year, the South Park Women's Club members have been busy with community projects, a successful Holiday Bazaar and interesting and fun-filled monthly meetings. Now it's time to celebrate. SPWC members will put on their holiday party clothes and gather together for an evening filled with dining, entertainment and prizes. This year's Christmas Dinner will be held on December 10th at Peter's Place in Bridgeville. The SPWC would like to wish everyone a very happy holiday season and extend an invitation to join the Club when we resume our monthly meetings in January 2010.
Take a Trolley Ride with Santa and See Toy Trains at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Ride the Santa Trolley at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum and join in an annual tradition that is fun for the whole family! Children take a trolley ride with the jolly old guy in red and make sure that he has their Christmas list, while parents and grandparents enjoy caroling and the scenic view from a beautifully restored vintage streetcar. Dates for Santa’s visit to the PA Trolley Museum are December 5-6, and December 12-13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last trolley with Santa leaves at 4 pm). After taking a ride with Santa, check out our huge, multileveled Lionel toy train layout featuring O scale trains and trolleys in our Visitors’ Center. The museum is pleased to again participate in the “Toys for Tots” campaign. Bring an unwrapped toy with a minimum value of $10 and received a free admission. We are accepting toys through December 13th. Trolleys and Toy Trains will be November 27-December 28, Fridays and Mondays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. -5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday January 2-3 11a.m .- 5 p.m. (Note the museum will be closed Dec 25). Come ride our festive trolleys, decorated for the season, then come and experience our beautiful multi-leveled Lionel toy train layout featuring 8 running trains and trolleys in our Visitor Education Center. Make a stop at the museum store for unique railway oriented gifts. Admission is $9 Adults, $8 Seniors (62+) and $5 for Children ages 3-15, under age 3 is free. There is also a special family rate of $30 that includes two adults and up to four children. Admission includes trolley rides, exhibits, and the Museum Store. Directions: Take I-79 to exit 41, Race Track Road, or take US Route 19 to Race Track Road. Left at Pike Street and then follow PA Trolley Museum signs approximately 3 miles to the museum. For information, call 724-228-9256 or visit the website at www.pa-trolley.org.
The planting team gets all the work done in about three hours.
The finished product. It was worth all the work!
South Park Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Garden In South Park Township Recognized By Andrea Earnest
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society has awarded the Community Greening Award to Ms. Carolyn Savikas, of Hilldale Drive, for her work and that of all those who participate in the planning, planting, and maintenance of the garden at the corner of Ridge Road and Maple Springs Road near the entrance to South Park. Ms. Savikas is the Garden Steward, but she credits many other people and groups with much of the work to make the garden come to life. Receiving recognition at the awards banquet are The garden is a joint project of the (l to r) - Margie Rea, South Park Garden Club; Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, the Carolyn Savikas, Garden Steward of the awardSouth Park Garden Club, the Board of winning garden; and Patricia James, Director of Supervisors, and other members of the Education of the Pennsylvania Horticultural township. While the Garden Club has the Society of Pennsylvania. responsibility for the planting and maintenance, the Board of Supervisors, and Bruce Beaver, Public Works Director, are a great help to the project each year. Mrs. Savikas also credits the Teacher Sponsor, Mr. Michael Surovchak of the Interact Group at South Park High School, and their members for a lot of the labor that goes into planting the garden, as well as volunteers who just like to show up for work on planting day. The garden’s conception begins the August before the planting. The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has more than 140 community gardens in Western A total team effort - It took a lot of hard work Pennsylvania. They make the layouts, order from individuals and groups to develop and plant the flowers, and send the drawings after getthe award winning garden. ting input from the community gardeners. Ms. Savikas accepted the award at a ceremony on Sunday, November 1, at the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy headquarters on Washington’s Landing. Margie Rea of the South Park Garden Club also accepted the award, which will be displayed in the township office. If you would like to help plant or maintain future gardens, please contact Ms. Savikas at carriesavikas@verizon.net.
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Ruffed Grouse Society Presents Arlene Popko With Conservation Award On November 12, 2009 the Covered Bridge Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society, based in Washington County, presented Venetia resident and artist Arlene L. Popko their Conservation Award for her commitment and dedication to habitat improvement in Western PennsylThe Covered Bridge Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society: vania. Front row (l-r): Arlene Popko, Kenn Popko, and Brian Hanna. Back row: Bruce Barnhart, Scott Thompson, Dave Levy, Over the years she John Brandstatter, and Larry Souleret has donated original watercolor paintings of covered bridges in the Washington Country area to the RGS chapter for their fundraising events, which have made a significant impact in the conservation and restoration of grouse and woodcock habitat. Arlene is a signature member of the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society. The Ruffed Grouse Society is the one international wildlife conservation organization dedicated to promoting conditions suitable for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and related wildlife. Information on the RGS, its mission, management projects and membership can be found on the web at www.ruffedgrousesociety.org.
A Wonderful Momento Memorial Trees in Finleyville Cemetery The Lanes in Finleyville Cemetery are being lined with trees that are from six to eight feet tall when planted and in just a few years will be tall enough to start to shade the stark landscape of the cemetery grounds. Even now they lend a new and pleasant appearance to the cemetery grounds. The trees are meant to be living memorials to be dedicated to those buried there or for any remembrance. To commemorate one of the trees as a memorial, a bronze plaque is lettered with the commemoration and installed permanently at the base of the tree. Those wishing to adopt one of the trees as a living memorial may contact Bob McClure at (412) 860-5329 for details.
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Recent Local Death Notices Affinito – Jemmie, 97., of Monongahela (Carroll Twp) died Monday October 12. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Bishop – John W, 90., of Venetia died Monday November 9. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. “Hobo” Karen Wilson (wife of District Justice Mark Wilson)
Randee Lynne Cowden, a new member dressed for the “Hobo” night
News from the Monongahela Women’s Club Monongahela Woman's Club started their new Club year on September 14, 2009 with a covered dish feast and installation of new members that included Carla Anerson, Patricia Bellora, Darla Beveridge, Patty LaBrasca, Lil Lusk, Chrissy Mendola, Toni “Hobo’s” Amy Brown, Candance McConnell, Moffit, Kathy Santina and Randee-Lynne Claudia Yedinak and Joan Weiss Cowden. A beautiful recitation was give by Betty Brooks for the devotion. All of the meetings are held the second Monday of the month at the First Presbyterian Church in Monongahela. The October 12th meeting was a night of Hobo Bunco with Club members dressing as hobo's and playing the Bunco game. Devotions were by Vicki Sento. Committee chair, Mary Ann Ghilani, and her committee decorated the tables in a fall theme and had pumpkins desserts for all. At the meeting, plans were made for the upcoming hot pepper jelly sale and updates were made on the donations for the "Coats for Kids" campaign. President Kathy Richardson gave the report on the fun time that the members enjoyed on the bus trip to Christmas in the Woods in Ohio and talked about making this an annual event.
Peters Township Frosty’s Fun House and Holiday Tree Lighting Join us at the Peters Township Recreation Center on Sunday, December 6, 2009 to make holiday themed crafts at “Frosty’s Fun House!” Event runs from 2 to 4 p.m. Admission is $2 per Resident / $3 Non-Resident (per child participating) An adult must accompany children. Also join us at the Municipal Complex for the annual Tree Lighting starting at 6 p.m. Musical entertainment and a visit from Santa, arriving on a fire truck! Refreshments served in the library immediately following the Tree Lighting ceremony. For more info: 724-942-5000.
Ringgold High School Holiday Extravaganza Come start off your Holiday Season with the combined choirs and bands at Ringgold High School. Come and warm your heart with music of the season, both traditional and modern, from all over the world. The first annual Ringgold High School Holiday Extravaganza begins at 7:00; admission is free. December 10, 2009 at the High School Auditorium. Refreshments will be available.
Bercik - Joseph, 90., of Elrama died Thursday October 8. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Dubovsky – Anna, 97., of Levittown, Formerly of Monongahela died Sunday October 25. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Greenwald – Gary A, 48., of Wexford died Monday October 26. Arrangements under direction of Bautz Funeral Home in New Eagle. Haywood – Lucetta, 90., of Monongahela (Carroll Twp) died Thursday October 22. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Henze – Karen S, 50., of Finleyville died Friday October 30. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. Kapusta – John J, 88., of Finleyville died Monday November 2. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville. Koval – James D, 67., of Finleyville died Tuesday November 3. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.
Lepovich – Helen “Betty”, 83., of Monongahela (Carroll Twp) died Tuesday October 6. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Louttit – Charles Stanley, 81., of Monongahela died Saturday October 3. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. McKeen – Charles William, 73., of Monongahela, Formerly of Hazelwood died Wednesday October 7. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Mentzer – Linda, 65., of Monongahela died Saturday October 17. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Pintar – Dora, 87., of Canonsburg, Formerly of Finleyville died Thursday October 8. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Power – Joseph Gerald “Jerry”, 72., of Monongahela died Monday October 26. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Reimer – Miriam R, 87., of New Eagle, Formerly of Binghampton, New York died Tuesday October 13. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Smith – Devida, 88., of New Eagle died Friday October 23. Arrangements under direction of Frye Funeral Home in Monongahela. Vickers – David B, 53., of Finleyville died Friday November 13. Arrangements under direction of Kegel Funeral Home in Finleyville.
Room/Gym Rental Available at the Peters Township Recreation Center Looking for a room to rent for your group meetings, seminars, and staff training? Rooms are available at the Peters Township Recreation Center. Rooms are also available for rental for events such as birthday parties or showers. Spaces available can accommodate groups as small as 15-25 people up to 75-80 people. For more information, contact Jim Moodispaugh, Facility Supervisor for fees and availability. You can also check prices and space rentals information on our website at www. peterstownship.com; under Township Departments, Parks & Recreation, Community Recreation Center, Facility Request pdf. form. If you would like additional information, contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 724-942-5000.
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Peters Creek Historical Society Holiday Event Celebrate a Traditional Christmas With a “Soup & Stroll” On the first weekend in December, the cherished elements of traditional Christmases past and present will once again combine when Peters Township’s national historic landmark, the 1816 Wright House, welcomes families to a holiday experience set in its 17th century Museum of Westward Expansion. On Friday, December 4th from 4:00 to 8:30 p.m., Peters Creek Historical Society hosts its fourth annual "Soup and Stroll" for all ages. Visitors will dine on a candlelight supper of hearty homemade soups, breads and desserts surrounded by candlelit walkways and rooms, fresh greens, 17th century decorations complete with sleigh and beautiful live music. Costumed professional re-enactors and Father Christmas will pose for pictures. Strolling the bedecked museum, its beautiful grounds and log cabin enhance this popular holiday experience. Featured this year is a display of creches from around the world from private collections. Visitors may also visit our "Creative Holiday Garden Room” decorated by Faux Real Style Services where hand-crafted gift items will be available. Admission to the event is $8/adult, $5 children. Takeouts will be available also. For more information, call 724-941-5710.
Monongahela/Donora Area Lions Club Seeking Members Interested in who Lions are? What Lions do? Stop by Monongahela Volunteer Fire Department on Monday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m. New Charter Club forming – members wanted. Become part of the Monongahela/Donora Area Lions Club.
Celebrate the Season in the Magic City of Charleroi Plan a trip to Charleroi on Saturday, December 5. Vote for your favorite holiday display in this year's "Festival of Trees". Don’t forget to check out the work of CASD art students painted throughout town. Everyone is invited to visit with Santa at the Charleroi Elks Club, write a letter to Santa and send some holiday wishes to our service men and women overseas. The schedule of events is as follows: 11:00 a.m. - Hometown Holiday Parade 12:00 p.m. - Lunch with Santa, Charleroi Elks Club - tickets $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Ticket price includes lunch, photo with Santa and holiday craft 1:00 p.m. - Holiday Music Festival Charleroi Market House Additional details can be found on www.teamcharleroi.org or contact the TEAM at 724-483-3070.
ASK the
EXPERTS
THESE AREA SERVICEPROVIDERS ARE HERE TO ANSWER ALL YOUR QUESTIONS...
MEDICAL CARE Q Falls are common in the winter months as ice and snow frequently cover our sidewalks, streets, and steps. How should I care for an injury and when should I seek medical attention?
A. After a fall, assess the area that hurts. Remove any Mary Parks Lamb, MD obscuring clothing. Check for lacerations or scrapes that could Medical Director Urgent Care Center be bleeding, and if they are present, apply pressure and elevate. If the wounds are deep and the bleeding cannot be controlled, seek medical attention right away. For a non-bleeding wound, follow the principles of "RICE" therapy - rest, ice, elevation, compression. Rest the injured area. Apply ice for 15 minutes at a time every 2 hours initially and then 2-3 times per day for the first 72 hours after an injury. Compress the area with an ace bandage to decrease swelling. Elevate the injured part to decrease blood flow to the injury. If pain is excessive, you are unable to sleep because of the pain, you are unable to bear weight on an injured lower extremity, or the injury does not seem to be improving, seek medical attention. Urgent Care Center affiliated with The Washington Hospital 3515 Washington Road, Krebs Center, McMurray 724.969.4321 www.theurgentcarecenter.org
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Q What's better, whole house or point of use water filtration? A. Good question, and you can get the right answer from the doctor. I think most people know Dr. Oz from the Oprah Winfrey show. He now has his own show "The Dr. Oz Show" and gives medical advice on a variety of subjects. He recently aired an episode called "Don't Drink the Water". You can find it on the internet if you Google "Dr. Oz water". He notes that most people know about the Tim Bartman hazards of drinking tap water and buy bottled water. What they Owner Bartman’s One Hour don't know are the hazards about bathing in it. He say's your skin is like sponge and absorbs the chemicals in the water, especially when you use very hot water. When you use hot water your pores open up more and absorb more. When you take a steamy bath or shower you are breathing the impurities directly into your lungs and blood stream. Check out the 7 minute Dr. Oz video and be more informed. You can also give use a call at 724348-7880. Bartman Inc. 257 W. Main Street, Monongahela, PA 15063 724-348-7880 • bartmaninc@verizon.net
If you have questions for our expert, send your questions to UNION FINLEY MESSENGER, P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332 or e-mail news@unionfinley.com
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LOCAL NEWS www.unionfinley.com
Enter The 2nd Annual ‘Gingerbread Creation’ Contest The First Presbyterian Church of Monongahela is holding their 2nd annual “Gingerbread Creation Contest.” Spend some quality time with your family, youth group, scout troop or friends in the kitchen exploring your creative talents and challenging your imagination, by making a gingerbread creation. OFFICIAL CONTEST RULES: • Entries and their foundations shall not exceed 2ft by 2ft. • Foundations must be sturdy for easy transport. • Entries must be made of edible materials with the exception of the foundation. • Entries should be original designs. The use of store-bought or gingerbread house kits may effect judging JUDGING INFORMATION: • Judging will be based on overall appearance, originality, creativity, and architecture, and adherence to the official contest rules. • Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. • The creation receiving the most popular vote will also receive a prize. • Judging will be held Friday and Saturday during public viewing hours. • Winners do not need to be present and will be called by 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 5th. • The decisions of the judges are final. (this is just a fun community activity) PUBLIC VOTING INFORMATION: • During public viewing hours, tickets may be purchased to vote on your favorite creation. Friday December 4, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM Saturday December 5, 8:30 AM - 12 noon Sunday December 6, 9:30 AM - 12 noon DROP OFF/ PICK UP: • Entry forms can be completed when you drop off your creation, or locate an entry form on www.1stpresbyterianmonongahela.com • Drop off times: Wednesday, Dec 2nd and Thursday, Dec 3rd from 6-8pm, or by appointment. • Entries must be removed from First Presbyterian Church by Sunday, December 6th at 12:30 pm. Houses not picked up will become the property of First Presbyterian Church. For any questions please contact Jordan Curry at 724-258-5837
Cal U Celebrates Homecoming By Alice Harris Saturday October 17, 2009 saw alumni, students, and townspeople gather at the gorgeous campus of California University of Pennsylvania for its 2009 Homecoming weekend. Festivities were celebrated throughout the campus and town, and in spite of cold temperatures and rain the streets were lined with people for its annual Homecoming Parade. (PHOTOS: ALICE HARRIS)
Always smiling, Homecoming King Davis Slagle and escort Natalie Hennings make for a very handsome couple!
California University Marching Band in cold weather gear, while the twirlers brave the elements.
The entrance to the beautiful California University campus displaying a welcoming Homecoming banner against fall foliage.
The brightly colored “We The People” float featured 'President Ronald Reagan' addressing a gathering of Patriots.
California University ROTC carry a huge flag in tribute to U.S. soldiers.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 21 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
That Old House
“Profiling historic, old or unique homes throughout the area”.
By William “Wild Willy” Frankfort
Santa’s Workshop Location: Main Street, Monongahela, PA Owner: Christopher Kringle I have no picture for this article. The reason… Santa’s workshop will not be up until after Thanksgiving Day, and that is well after the deadline for our monthly newspaper. You see, the tradition of advertising and displaying Christmas decorations before turkey day has only been with us for less than ten years.
Few businesses back in the nineties dared to advertise or decorate before Thanksgiving. It was thought by my generation that if you did jump the gun and advertise Christmas to early, it was the attempt of big business to pressure the consumer. “Greed” was the word used to describe that business. Today the norm is to advertise just after Halloween and skip the decorations for Thanksgiving all together. The term “Holiday shopping” is now used and two holidays are combined. This cuts the cost of advertising and two turkeys are now on the mind of the consumer in November, one bird for each holiday dinner. Two for one specials on yams and cranberries and
so on. I’ll be honest with you all and tell you that I was hoping that the workshop was up and Santa was outside. It would have made a great photo, me sitting on Santa’s lap, but it was not to be. I can not say I wasn’t disappointed when I saw a workman working on the ATM machine outside instead of the jolly elf’s hut. I was transported to a time when there were no malls, when gift shopping was done in the evening and on Saturdays. (Nothing was open on Sunday. You went to church.) I remember getting my picture with Santa. Every major department store had one and you may see three or four in one day.
I remember getting dressed in my good Sunday cloths to visit Santa and my sisters crying in every photo taken. In effect, I went looking for a photo and got a ride back in time. So instead of showing your kids or grand kids the picture that should accompany this article, take them on a ride back in time. Tell them what a visit with Santa was like for you as a child. Let them know that you had dreams of the gifts you would receive. So, when your out shopping, weather it be at the mall or when passing through town. Take time to visit Santa’s workshop and tell the kids your story. Memories are what make Christmas special.
** If you live in an old house, or know of an old, unique or historic house in your town a n d w o u l d l i k e t o h a v e i t p r o f i l e d a s p a r t o f t h e “ T h a t O l d H o u s e ” f e a t u r e i n t h e U n i o n - F i n l e y M e s s e n g e r, p l e a s e c o n t a c t u s a t 4 1 2 - 2 4 9 - 8 1 7 7 , o r e - m a i l u s a t n e w s @ u n i o n f i n l e y . c o m.
Happy Holidays! The entire staff of CENTURY 21 Frontier Realty wishes to extend our holiday greetings to all of the communities we serve for everyone to enjoy a safe and bountiful Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
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Making it Happen Local Committee Members and a Generous Donation Helped Close the Gap For New Eagle Veterans’ Memorial By Paul Chasko The November issue of the Union-Finley Messenger contained an article on the dedication of the new veterans’ memorial in New Eagle Borough. It was mentioned in the article that there were many individual contributors who donated to the project. At one point in time however, even with all of the individual contributions, the project funds were still falling short and it didn’t look as though work could start in time for a veteran’s day dedication this year. Even with grants, donations, a spaghetti dinner and a barbeque, the fund raising project was now in its fourth year and still short of the $75,000 total cost. Then one day, by a casual comment, the Joe Hardy
family was informed about the funding shortfall and just like that, a check was written to bring the fund to where it needed to be - and the donation was not insignificant. This was not an easy project and the members of the War Memorial Committee who saw it through deserve a great deal of credit and thanks from the community in general. Its members were Jake Simoncelli (now deceased), Archie Caseber, Rich Scerrill, Bill Peart, Larry Anselmino and Jack Fine. Now that the memorial is complete, the War Memorial Committee has dissolved and handed the reins for enhancements and
The New Eagle Veterans’ Memorial
maintenance to the New Eagle Community Action Group. Commemorative engraved pavers for the walkway facing the memorial can be obtained through a donation by contacting Linda Hall at the New Eagle Borough Building at 157 Main Street – Phone: (724) 258-4477. The pavers can be dedicated to anyone – not necessarily a veteran.
Sounding The Alarm Monongahela Fire Department Asks Public to Show Up and Support Their Request For Funding By Ken Askew Whether its 2 PM or 2 AM, when there is an emergency in the City of Monongahela the firehouse horn sounds and the pagers beep. Many of the 33 volunteer firefighters come to the firehouse, hastily put on their gear, and respond—as evidence of their pride, dedication, and commitment. Many times this occurs during family functions, holidays, or just after they fall into a slumber. Now the volunteers are sounding the alarm for the public’s support at the next City Council meeting. Because of the current economic slump, the fire company is finding it much harder to raise funds. What does it take to keep a volunteer fire department operating today? It now costs the fire department approximately $15K to outfit and train just one firefighter. Despite years of cost-cutting measures at the department, it still has an operating budget of nearly $280K. Utilities alone for one year can be as high as $50K. To help offset the day-to-day operating costs such as utilities and building maintenance, the fire department relies solely on donations, whether it comes from the annual fund drive, cash bashes, monthly tickets, or its annual carnival. In recent years, these fund-raising activities have not provided as they formerly did--in part
due to the faltering economy and the opening of local casinos. The firefighters have gone before City Council in the past several years to ask for financial help, but to no avail. At the last Monongahela City Council meeting, Councilman Tom Caudill praised Council and the Mayor for possibly reducing taxes by 2 mills. Before that, the fire department met with Council at a Work Session regarding the 2010 budget, where they asked Council for a 1 mill share (about $33K - $35K) of tax revenue. Council is considering the request. Assistant Fire Chief Joe Muntan explains that “This is an issue that has affected a lot of Pennsylvania volunteer fire departments. According to the National Volunteer Fire Council, one volunteer firefighter saves the city $39,400 per year versus hiring a full-time firefighter, and the department as a whole saves the city almost $2M per year.” Furthermore, he says Pennsylvania state guidelines allow the fire department to request as high as 3 mills for operating costs. Previously, Council claimed they generously provided help to purchase insurance, fuel, and maintenance for the fire trucks. Due to the Third Class status of the City, the fire trucks are owned by the City, and therefore must provide the afore-men-
tioned items. Muntan clarified that the City government formerly bought the fire trucks, gear for firefighters, radios, and pagers-- but the fire department is now responsible for part of the truck payment, plus all of the other expenditures. The public and Council need to understand that the firefighters are so busy trying to fund-raise, that they are not able to get their required training. The state and federal government have put new training demands on firefighters in order to receive grants. Even though grants do not cover most operating costs, they do help in buying firefighters their necessary gear and costly maintenance projects. But Muntan stated there is at least 200 hours of training per firefighter needed to gain the certifications to obtain grants to help offset the cost of equipment. The city budget is not finalized yet, and Council members are still considering the 1 mill allocation for the department. The volunteer firefighters are asking the public to please come to the next Monongahela City Council meeting (December 9th at 7:00 PM) and voice their support for the department; they need citizens and business owners to attend the Council meeting and encourage Council to show the Mon Valley and the state just how much the volunteers are needed and appreciated.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 23 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
Elizabeth Borough Granted Local Historic Status Unexplained Sinkholes on Patterson Avenue to Be Investigated By Alice Harris The October 27, 2009 meeting of Elizabeth Borough Council opened with the recognition of guests signed in to speak. Guest Floyd Sorg questioned about a wall that was removed in the demolition of the property adjoining his that is now allowing mud to build up in his drains. Monica Douglas stated that everything in the demolition was completed according to specifications. Guest and Elizabeth Borough Fire Department Deputy Chief, Charles Smith, stated that complaints of junk cars parked inside the secured fenced area at the Waterworks building are used for fire training purposes. Council stated that the Fireman need to keep Council updated to what they are doing so there is no miscommunication and also to make effort to stay safe so there is no danger and no one gets hurt. Guest David Graham of the Elizabeth Township Area E.M.S. announced a free Stroke Risk Screening clinic sponsored by Jefferson Hospital, the Elizabeth Health Council, and E.T.A.E.M.S. will be held on December 5, 2009 from 10 am-2pm at their facility located in Swiss Alpine Village on Rt. 48. Free tests will be available, as well as educational handouts and giveaways. Ages 18 and up are welcome to attend. Although not necessary, registration is preferred at 412-469-7100. Light refreshments will be provided. Parking is free. In other Business: • Elizabeth Borough has been awarded Local Historical District Status by the
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Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation. The designated area is two blocks in the Second Avenue business district from Market to Strawberry Streets. In lieu of this award, a proposal for the EACDC to draft a letter to apply for National Historic Status was approved. The Elizabeth Township Area E.M.S. Board of Directors has dedicated a bench to memory of the late John Yacura, Mayor of Elizabeth and a member of their board and of whom they were very proud. The bench can be seen at their facility on Rt. 48. Troup 99 of the Boy Scouts of America, Mt. Vernon/Elizabeth will hold their annual campout at the Elizabeth Dock on December 5-6. The Borough’s Annual Light Up Night will be held on December 5. The Christmas Parade begins at 7 pm with line up starting at 6:30. Permission for the County to conduct an Energy Audit for the Borough (financed by a block grant) was approved. Hostility towards the Borough Secretary over parking tickets was discussed. If it gets out of hand, a disorderly conduct citation will be filed. Other options for collection parking ticket fees were discussed. First and Seventh Streets in Elizabeth will be monitored by the Police for speeding vehicles, as well as First and Water Streets in West Elizabeth will be, also. The discussion of building a salt shed before cold weather arrives resulted in several possibilities for a storage facili-
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ty. Due to lack of funds, Councilman Chad Rager suggested to fix the water drainage problems at the Waterworks Building (currently being used for salt storage) and decide better facilities as funds become better available. Rats have become a problem in Walker Heights. The County Health Department and the Building Inspector have been contacted to look for the source of where the rats are originating. Councilman Chad Rager suggested sending someone from the Streets Department to Rat Control school for education on how to handle these problems when they arise. The cause of mysterious sinkholes on Patterson Ave. needs to be determined. Mining has been ruled out as no mines were in that area. The yard at 100 Patterson Ave is also sinking. Glenn Engineering (through GOG) has been contacted to investigate this situation as an idea to why this area is sinking needs known prior to digging to look for the cause. Councilman Chad Rager was approved to write a letter asking West Elizabeth Lumber to donate wood to be used to construct a pavilion at Wylie Field that could be leased to the public for picnics, etc. and would help Recreation with funding for other projects. He will return to Council to discuss further if this request works out. Councilwoman Mary Van Fossen inquired to use CDBG funding from COG to fix Maple Ave. A motion to designate the Makin Engineering Study as the planner of
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record for the development of Elizabeth Borough was approved. An organizational meeting of the Zoning Hearing Board was scheduled for November 7 at 7:00 pm at the Borough Building. Councilman Larry Duval requested copies of zoning ordinances and municipal zoning codes to have available for Board members. Prior to approving a contract for animal control for 2010-11, Council has invited the current contractor, Ken Feree, to December’s meeting to discuss what happens when an animal is picked up. The current hold period is 48 hours. Councilman Duval stated he would like an animal who happens to get loose to have as much protection as possible to be able to find its owner. Mayor Cline suggested a lifetime license for chipped animals and that a scanner for chipped animals costs about $300. Residents with unpaid garbage collection bills get 2 past due notices and a 10 % per month penalty on their unpaid balance. If still not paid, it is sent on to the Magistrate for payment. Council approved the hiring of 2 school crossing guards for 2 hours per day to be stationed at Bayard and Sixth Streets and at Church Street and McKeesport Road. Building permits for sidewalk repairs are not needed. Allegheny County offers a sidewalk program through COG that residents need to know how to access to help with repairs. A continuity sidewalk pattern was discussed, but nothing was decided at this time.
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New Eagle Council Sells Off Excess Equipment By Ken Askew New Eagle Council held its’ monthly meeting on November 3, 2009. Results were announced concerning the advertisement of excess equipment for sale. Two equal bids of $2,700 were received for a truck with attached snowplow. Consequently, Solicitor Robert Zunich advised Council the first bid received (from Mike Veneziano) should be accepted; furthermore, if Mr. Veneziano does not make payment and remove the equipment within 15 days, the equipment should be sold to the second bid received, from Jim Majoros. The other item sold to the highest bidder was a Western snowplow for $700, also to Mike Veneziano. In other business: • New Eagle just signed a renewal contract with the Monongahela Police Department, to provide police protection for the next five years. The contract stipulates a wage freeze for next year. • Council approved submission of an application for Washington County Local Share Account (gaming revenues), to be used for sidewalks and landscaping on Chess Street. • A tentative 2010 budget was passed, which includes no tax increase, no garbage fee increase, and a $.40 per hour wage increase for the street crew and Borough secretary. • Per discussions with PENNDOT, they will replace guard rails in the vicinity of Keenan Road and 7th Avenue. • A heater in the Borough garage went bad; repairs are estimated at $1,200. • Paving and landscaping on 4th Avenue is at a standstill. Council is hoping that the contractor will finish the work before the asphalt plants close for the season, estimated to be about November 15. If the work is not done, Council will consider assessing liquidated damages against the contractor; the contract allows for a rate of $200 per day. If such charges are applied, the tab would already amount to $3,600. • A lease for the boat ramp and parking area has expired; Council will pursue a renewal. • Police Chief Brian Tempest reported that another 20+ abandoned vehicles have been towed in the last month. • Council President Jack Fine was pleased to announce that every three years, New Eagle qualifies for Redevelopment funding. Next year’s amount will be $31,900, likely to be spent on street paving, recreation, and/or storm sewers. • Council then adjourned to an Executive Session to discuss personnel issues.
South Park Township Council Finalizes Snow Removal Agreements By Andrea Earnest Several actions were taken at the November 9 meeting of the South Park Township Board of Supervisors. Among them were: • Snow removal agreement for Brookfield Manor Phase 2 with Waddell Group; • Snow removal agreement for Bonnie Dell Acres No. 2 with Quality Rentals; • Preliminary and final approval on Opferman Consolidation Plan at 1654 Main Boulevard; • Preliminary and final approval on Lavelle Plan at 4113 Brownsville Road; • Payment request in the amount of $60,240.00 for work completed to date by Plavchak Construction Co., Inc., for work on Evans Park Softball Field. Action was also approved to hire George Lucas, Sangate Drive, in a part-time position as a monitor for the 2009-2010 basketball program.
Training requests in the amount of $36 were approved for Officer Anthony Andronas and Officer John Booth to attend a program on street crimes. Another training request was approved for Officer Griffith to take a collision investigation refresher in the amount of $12. Both programs will be held at the Allegheny County Police Training Academy in Allison Park. The Police Chief’s Report for the month of October shows 633 service calls, 23 arrests, 57 traffic citations, eight parking citations, 92 warnings, five reportable accidents, seven non-reportable accidents, 74 emergency medical assists, 11 fire calls, and two deer complaints. Supervisor George Smith praised the South Park High School girls’ soccer team as a runner-up in the WPIAL AA championship. The full minutes of the meeting are available at the township office.
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Monongahela Council Addresses Pet Waste in Chess Park 2010 Budget includes Reduced Tax Rate - Again by Ken Askew Monongahela City Council held its’ monthly meeting on November 11, 2009. Perhaps due to the recent announcement that several Carnegie Library branches in Pittsburgh will be closing, the Librarian at the Monongahela Library attended the meeting to reinforce the importance of having a library in Monongahela. She cited statistics showing there has been a library in Monongahela for 100 years, that 61% of their patrons are residents of Monongahela, and last year those patrons checked out 14,000 items. Fred Angerman spoke about the lack of diligence by pet owners to scoop their pet droppings when they visit Chess Park, which he described as an “outhouse for animals.” Councilperson Claudia Williams responded that she has been seeking funding to buy surveillance cameras for the park to deter such activity. Police Chief Brian
Tempest added that his officers have given verbal warnings to pet owners; sometimes the owners do comply by removing their pet’s waste, but sometimes they wait for the officer to leave, then the pet owners likewise leave, but take no action. A discussion ensued as to whether signs should be installed, or pets should just be banned from the park. The current fine for not scooping is $600. Mr. Angerman also inquired about the status of the Turner donation of funds to buy equipment for the City’s playgrounds. He was told that the funds have not been spent yet; rather, they are being parlayed as matching funds for a grant application as part of the Aquatorium upgrade project. That work will not start until summer/fall of 2010. In Other Business: • Council passed Resolution 11-2009, for a grant application under the Washington County Local Share
Peters Township Council Accepts Private Street into Township’s Road System By J.R. Brower A private portion of Mt. Blaine Drive will become part of the township’s road system as a result of approval by Peters Township Council at their November 9 meeting. The resolution to accept the upgraded portion of this street, which runs between Julrich Drive and Oakwood Road, was passed by a 7-0 vote. Residents had petitioned the township to upgrade the private section of Mt. Blaine Drive and take over its maintenance. The petition was based upon the residents contributing equal amounts towards the costs of repairs. An ordinance assessed the homes on this portion of this street at $9,392 per property for the improvements. The ordinance that established the assessments on Mt. Blaine Drive was approved by a vote of 6-1. In other new business, council approved a change order for the new Public Works Department garage. This is the second change order for the project. The action became necessary in order to cut out and remove material under the parking area and to install additional base material. The total cost of the project is $356,127, and the amount of the change order is $4,230, putting the cost at 5% over the original contract price according to Township Manager Michael Silvestri. In another matter, council passed a resolution allowing for the developer of Venetia Pointe to modify its sewage permit for the Peters Creek watershed. At a previous meeting, council had agreed to let the developer to expand the plan by adding an additional nine units. In other business at their November 9 meeting, Council: • Received a traffic calming update that the township is checking results of their efforts on Oakwood Road. • Was informed that PennDot was to have held a public meeting on their plans for a new intersection at Center Church Road and East McMurray Road on November 18. • Recognized the 20th anniversary of the Montour Trail. Council member Robert Lewis pointed out that the township’s Arrowhead Trail became the first component of the Montour Trail after the township purchased the right-of-way from the old Montour Railroad and constructed a paved recreational trail. “It’s amazing what has been accomplished since then,” said Lewis.
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Account (gaming revenues) for the Mounds Sanitary Project. The application is valued at $109,440, with a pledge of $7,400 of in-kind services and a $2,600 block grant. The Monongahela Police Department will perform a 5-year contract with New Eagle Borough to provide their police protection. The “Escape Clause” for early termination of the agreement, as contained in the former contract, has been deleted for this renewal. Councilman Tom Caudill was pleased to provide a “first reading” of the draft 2010 budget, which includes a reduction in the millage from 25 to 23. A prior tax rate reduction had brought it down from 30 mills to 25 mills. In spite of several major capital expenditures in 2009, the millage reduction was possible due to no deficit spending and tight control on general expenditures. Since the state of Pennsylvania already has a law requiring all contractors to be registered, Council will investigate whether the City’s registration ordinance is redundant. Residents were reminded that the
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Washington County Redevelopment Authority has loan money available to moderate and low income home owners to improve their properties, such as installing new roofs, windows, or furnaces. If borrowers continue to reside in the property for 5 to 10 more years, the loan will be forgiven. This month’s property beautification award was bestowed upon 914 4th Street. The Streets Department reported that paving for this season is completed, and leaf pick-up is nearly done. A Cash Flow Audit of Monongahela for 2008 has been received, and is available for public reading at the municipal office. A City property (located near the City garage), which was determined to be excess, was advertised for sale; bids will be opened in December. The Monongahela Police Department intends to hire Elizabeth Gatto as a new part-time officer; she was formerly employed as a part-time police officer in Fallowfield Township.
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Peters Township Sanitary Authority Board Defends its Actions in Newsletter to Customers
Top Two Board Members of Peters Township Sanitary Authority Replaced While Three Others Remain By J.R. Brower
The new Peters Township Sanitary Authority office building is located at 111 Bell Drive. It replaced the old leased office at 3244 Washington Road. Authority Manager James Miskis said the new office will save $36,000 annually in rent expense, and will give the authority $1 million in equity by having its own building. The building includes administrative offices and a public meeting room. PTSA has 12 employees and oversees both the Brush Run and Donaldsons Crossroads wastewater treatment plants.
By J.R. Brower
After being requested by Peters Township Council to resign, the Peters Township Sanitary Authority Board responded by means of a newsletter that was mailed to all of its 5,400 customers the week of November 2. In the newsletter, the board agreed to resign as requested but not without defending their actions, so that customers could be presented with the board’s side of the story. The newsletter explained that although the township’s governing body created the municipal authority, it became an independent entity operating under Pennsylvania state law “with all of the power provided by law”. “It is more an entity of the state than it is an affiliation of the township,” according to the newsletter. The newsletter went on to say that “an authority board’s powers are extensive, are enumerated in state law, and include the ability to appoint officers, hire employees and professional consultants, and set their compensation.” It continues its defense of the board in saying that it has the right to exercise it powers for the welfare of the authority rather than the welfare of the township. These powers are granted, it says, under the state law referred to as the Municipalities Authority Act. In defending the pay increases from $15 per meeting, the newsletter said, “after adjusting for inflation, the $15 in 1970 is today worth about $2.70.” “At the January, 2008 reorganization meeting and after receiving affirmative advice from the State Ethics Commission, the board adopted an officer compensation program establishing a monthly salary of $115/month for the chairman and $100/month for all other officers, and all would
forgo the existing $15/meeting board member compensation.” After discussing the board’s increased responsibilities including overseeing the implementation of a $2.9 million annual operating budget, the newsletter defended criticism of their lack of openness on the pay increases: “The authority has been criticized for taking this action without public or council scrutiny. However, it was discussed in open session at a number of public meetings, summarized in public meeting minutes which were immediately provided to the township management and posted on the authority’s website. It was also identified in the authority’s Budget Report for 2008, and provided to the township management immediately upon adoption by the authority board. Perhaps the authority should have written a letter directly to council, and for failing to do that we accept responsibility.” The newsletter complains again about its officers being compensated less than in the 1970s, when inflation is considered, concluding “And for that, your township council is willing to denigrate the authority board members at public meetings, spend the time and expense to dissolve the Peters Township Sanitary Authority, and requests the resignations of all board members. The only reason council provides for this action is that the authority board did not obtain council’s permission, which the authority board is not required to do.” “It is with regret that the board members resign. It is our sincere hope that our customers remember our combined 76 years of dedicated community service rather than the fact that the board has resigned to avoid the unnecessary expenses that this political disagreement could result in.”
Peters Township Council has appointed Township Manager Michael Silvestri and Councilman Michael McCaig to replace Peters Township Sanitary Authority Board Chairman George Khalouf and Vice Chairman James Slagle. Council accepted resignations of all five board members, but the remaining three members are being permitted to remain on the board. Council allowed Secretary Denver Yingling to continue serving on the sanitary board until his term expired at the end of this year. Treasurer James Schafer will be permitted to remain on the board until he moves out of the township or is replaced by a new applicant. All this was determined at a special meeting held by council on November 2. The remaining sanitary board member, Assistant SecretaryTreasurer Robert Jacobs, submitted his resignation by letter, which Silvestri said he received on November 3. At their November 9 meeting, Councilman Robert Atkison made a motion to accept Jacobs’ resignation and then reinstate him to serve out the remainder of his term, which expires in 2013. The motion included allowing Jacobs’ salary to be increased to $50 per meeting, the amount that the sanitary board had requested originally several months ago when they rescinded their controversial stipends of $100 per meeting that had been paying themselves since January 2008. Council passed the motion 7-0. By accepting the resignations of the top two sanitary authority board members and permitting the other three members to remain on the board, the appearance at face value seems to be that council is mostly concerned about removing the leadership of the board. It was, in fact, the sanitary board’s leadership that failed to inform council of their salary increases from $15 per meeting to $100 per meeting ($115 per meeting for the board chairman) almost two years ago. As to why council is allowing Jacobs and Schafer to remain on the board into next year, Atkison said that the sanitary authority needs their expertise, and it is important that the board continues its work uninterrupted by vacancies. Manager Silvestri was appointed to serve as a sanitary authority board member on a vacancy that expires at the end of next year, and Councilman McCaig’s appointment will be for a term that ends in 2012. Both said that they would serve without pay. Since McCaig’s council term ends in January, it is possible that council may offer him sanitary board pay after that time. Silvestri said that there has been a fair amount of interest by residents wishing to apply for sanitary authority board positions. Applications will be accepted until December 7. Council approved paying all Peters Township Sanitary Authority Board members $50 per meeting from now on, since that is the amount that council approved earlier this year for township representatives on the board of the regional Peters Creek Sanitary Authority, which is in no way involved in the current dispute. At the November 9 meeting, resident Ron Boocks asked council if members of the sanitary board would be required to give back the major portions of their unapproved salaries. Solicitor William Johnson said that the township would have to bring a lawsuit against the sanitary authority board and questioned if the expense would be worth it.
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Union Township Strengthens Road Bonding Requirements By Paul Chasko All Union Township (UT) Supervisors were present at the November 9 regular business meeting as was the Solicitor, Secretary/Treasurer, Twp. Engineer, Zoning and Code Enforcement Officers and Road Crew Foreman. The meeting was preceded by a moment of silence for Karen Henze – a recently deceased former member of the UT Recreation Board At the urging of Solicitor Makel the UT board has authorized preparation of an OWV (Over Weight Vehicles) Road Use Agreement that will make companies moving OWVs over local roadways completely liable for all damages done. The new agreement will also require that all costs for permits and road inspections are borne by the companies using the roads. With this agreement in place, the board felt it could forego a $25 per vehicle permit fee that would be too cumbersome to implement. Demolition of two derelict and abandoned mobile homes in UT has been delayed by the issues of tax liens remaining on the structures. Additional discussions with the Washington Co. Tax Office were authorized to assure UT is free from the tax liability if it elects to demolish the structures. The Zoning officer has been unable to locate the prior owners. The board stated that new funding possibilities are the primary reasons for revisiting the Union Valley storm water management project and not imminent development in the area. In other business: • Approved minutes of Oct. 12 regular meeting w/o correction. • Approve minutes of the Oct. 21 budget workshop w/o correction. • The Engineer was authorized to prepare a cost estimate for road damage caused by OWVs on Airport Rd. • A meeting was scheduled between the UT Solicitor and Mr. Corace of McChain Rd. to discuss an agreement for management of a mud slide from his property onto McChain Rd. • The Planning Commission authorized letters supporting the Union Valley Storm Mgt. Project. • The board expressed concern that Mr. Zubasic of McChain Rd. may be proceeding with development on his property without an authorized development plan. A meeting is being arranged and a letter drafted informing him of actions required on his part prior to any development. • Replacement winter tires were received for UT trucks and sufficient road salt is stockpiled. • The new security system is up and run-
ning in the UT Rec. Park and the building has been winterized. • Samples of truck ladders and new road signs were available for examination. • The Solicitor was authorized to notify Mountain View Oil & Gas of their responsibility for repairs on Airport Rd. for damage caused by their over-weight-vehicles. • Installation of storm sewers in Elrama is complete. Concern was noted that the paving company hasn’t been spending sufficient time on the job. • Payments of payrolls 21 and 22 for $8,439.04 and $8,260.83 were approved. • Payment of general fund bills in the amount of $93,706.03 was approved. • Payment to KAG Engineering ($27,770.10) for work on the Elrama Sewage Project was approved. Testing of all piping is complete. Parts for the pumping station are needed to complete the system. The tap-in agreement with Jefferson Hills should be complete in the next week. • Payment to Solicitor Makel for work on the Elrama Sewage Project - $1,001.86 • Mtg. to be scheduled with West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority to work out details of an Elrama Sewage operating agreement. • Quotes (6) for UT liability insurance were distributed for review and action at the next meeting. • Supervisor Tkach reported on the organizational meeting of the Washington County Tax Collection Committee established under Act 32. • Solicitor is waiting for input from the DEP to develop a new burning ordinance. • Comments are still being incorporated into the UT/Carroll Twp Multi-Municipality Comprehensive Plan. • The board is making an offer on a new 2009 Ford F70 truck • A representative from Kriebel Minerals (a gas drilling company) asked the board to waive a $25 per vehicle permit requirement for OWVs in lieu of sufficient bond. The board agreed (see paragraph 2 above). • Have Martik Bros. replace two mandoors on the equipment garage including new hardware - $3,335.00 • Purchase two steel plates to cover deteriorating grates on the equipment garages for $1,100 each. • Replace worn carpet, runners and broken tile in the UT municipal building. • Authorizing the Solicitor to prepare an agreement charging a $200 fee for and piping installed under UT roadways. • The meeting was followed by a short executive session. The Solicitor reported that Kingsfield litigation and personnel issues were discussed.
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PA Foreign Fire Insurance Funds Allocated by Jefferson Hills Council Councilman Khalil Praised For His Plan By Jim Caldwell “Fair and equitable,” were the terms used by Jefferson Hills Councilman Tracey Khalil of the plan devised and approved by the members present for the November 9th Council meeting. He referred to the method adopted to distribute the PA Foreign Fire Insurance monies to the three fire companies in Jefferson Borough. The amount this year was $59,021.12. Three criteria were employed. A base of 20% was given to each fire station to start; secondly, $100 was given for each personnel at each station. The companies with more volunteers, therefore, received more in this category. Thirdly, a percentage was allocated based on the received certificates of completed training documented for each station this year. In the later categories, Jefferson 885 Station received the most, then Floreffe and lastly Gill Hall. The monies distributed were: Jefferson 885 $28,337.06; Floreffe – $17,184.06 ; Gill Hall – $13,500.00. Council members all remarked that this system accomplished all objectives: an equal amount to each as well as monies for the stations with more need for equipment and finally, a percentage based on performance as measured by the certificates of training achieved.
Three Council members were not present: Janice Cmar, Jeff Weir and Kathleen Reynolds because of conflicting work schedules and sickness. Those present adopted a number of motions: • Executed the Agreement with Ferree Kennels as Dog Enforcement Officer for two years starting the beginning of the year at $400 / month. • Waived the noise ordinance for the PA Dept of Transportation for road milling and resurfacing on Route 51 during 2010. • Authorized Borough Solicitor, along with the Engineer to accept sanitary sewer line from Stonecreek Industries. • Purchased a pressure washer for the Public Works Department for $4,460. • Adopted the 2009 Preliminary Budget. Among the reports, Borough Fire Chief, Alvin Henderson said that, along with Pleasant Hills and West Elizabeth, they visited Thomas Jefferson High School recently to present to Juniors, Seniors and Guidance Counselors a program from Allegheny County that would offer free tuition and books to any student wishing to attend CCAC, provided they sign an agreement to volunteer in the fire departments of the respective communities for a period of five years service. Council praised the program and agreed to advertise it on the web site.
Finleyville Plans Washington Avenue Improvements Expecting Community Block Grant Funds In 2010 By Paul Chasko
Discussion at the November Finleyville meeting centered on improvements to the downtown area – near-term and in 2010. Installation of the town clock donated by the VanVoorhis Family Trust should be completed before the Holidays and plans are in the works to install bus shelters at either end of Washington Avenue. The Borough will be eligible for Community Block Grants in 2010. About $43,000 will be available for community improvements. The council decided the money would be best spent on sidewalk improvements on the south side of Washington Ave. A motion to that effect was passed unanimously. In other business: • Minutes of the October council meeting were approved without correction. • Financial statement was approved. • Potholes on Lincoln Avenue will be
cold-patched. • The Railroad will be asked to replace the concrete blocks protecting their crossing Mechanism on Route 88 • Police report was submitted and accepted. Chief Tempest also reported that the inspection of mechanical entertainment devices in the borough is underway. • The final version of the Finleyville/Nottingham MMCP is still in review. • Mr. VanVoorhis has requested that a portion of Baltimore Avenue be classified as a no-parking area. The solicitor suggested that an ordinance is drafted identifying all non-parking areas in the borough. • Reinvest 2 certificates of deposit that mature in Nov. at the best available terms. • Make a $500 donation to the Christmas Holiday lighting fund. • Scheduled a budgeting meeting for Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 7:30 pm.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 29 MUNICIPAL NEWS www.unionfinley.com
Nottingham Township Board of Supervisors Considers Expansion of Municipal Complex By J.R. Brower Nottingham’s supervisors and staff have been talking about expanding their facilities for some time, but never put its discussion on a meeting agenda. That changed at the November 16 Board of Supervisors meeting. The board is considering construction of a new building next to, not attached to, the present Municipal Building. That building, at 909 Sugar Run Road, was constructed in 1977 at a cost of $215,000. Board Chairman Raymond Barley said the supervisors have been thinking about space needs as the township anticipates future growth. They discussed erecting the new building across the parking lot. It was suggested that the new building be approximately 3,000 square feet and contain administrative offices as well as a meeting room. The present building would then be converted to use by the Public Works Department only. Barley said that a problem that they have encountered in the present facility is that automotive fumes permeate the offices due to the fact the Public Works Department garage is within the same structure. He said that a good thing is the fact that
the township gets free natural gas from its own well to heat the building in the winter, but in the summer, considerable electricity is needed for the air conditioning to cool the building. Supervisor / Public Works Director Douglas King said that his department could certainly use the extra space of the whole building, since now some township equipment is being stored in an off-site location. The supervisors agreed that planning and construction of a new building would take considerable time. Barley said even the process of developing and finalizing the architectural design can take months. He said that next year they could look at proposals and physical plans for the proposed expansion as well as their options for financing the project. Whether or not construction could begin next year is not known, he emphasized. In another matter, the board discussed how to use funding of $43,500 the township is receiving for the 2010 Community Development Block grant program. The money can be used for either demolition of old condemned structures or for home rehabilitation. Township Secretary Emilie Gadd said that there are five Nottingham homes
on the county’s waiting list for rehabilitation. She said the owners are lower income families who had to meet certain income criteria to qualify for the program. Concerning abandoned structures that need to be demolished, King said that there are two: one in the Ginger Hill area and the old Lindley house on Sugar Run Road. After discussion of the block grant allocation, the supervisors voted 3-0 to approve $23,000 to go towards home rehabilitation and $20,500 to go towards demolition. In other business, the board took up discussion of rental of the meeting room in the Municipal Building for private parties. Peter Marcoline was concerned about the cost incurred by the township for cleanup. It was agreed that the rental fee should stay at $100, but the security deposit will be increased to $50. The board made the decision to discontinue taking reservations for the meeting room into 2011. Next on the agenda was a discussion on the status of the Single Stream Recycling Program. Nottingham was chosen as a regional site for the facility. Equipment for the operation will be owned by the county for three years and then will be turned over to the township. The county will do the
bidding for installing the equipment near the Public Works garage. Barley said that there is a lot of enthusiasm for the recycling center among residents that he has talked to. Supervisor Peter Marcoline said, “The speed of developing this is on the county.” He agreed with the other supervisors that they need to sit down with county officials so, as Barley said, “we can see how to get this done.” In other matters, the Nottingham Board: • Approved the appointment of Jim Ramsey to the Planning Commission upon the recommendation of that board replacing the vacancy of Paula Mueller with the term ending January 2012. • Acknowledged receipt of the Assessed Value Certification from the Washington County Tax Revenue Department in the amount of $26,967,651. • Approved a winter maintenance agreement with Albico, Inc. for services to include, but not limited to, the plowing and salting of streets this winter for the Walnut Ridge Phase 4 plan of lots. • Revealed that the township is looking into the future option of joining neighboring municipalities in establishing a regional police force.
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West Elizabeth Council Meeting Recap By Charlotte Hopkins At West Elizabeth's November council meeting; Rita Jennings, spoke about an upcoming health screening that will be held at the Elizabeth Township on Saturday, December 5th, from 10AM - 2PM. Jennings represents the Community Stroke Outreach program from Jefferson Regional Medical Center. The screening will last approximately 4 hours. It is free and open to anyone over the age of 18. They provide a thorough check of their cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol), blood sugar, blood pressure, body fat analysis and carbon monoxide level (good for smokers and people who live with smokers). The days that follow the exam, JRMC will follow up with any negative results; to give advice and possible assistance. Some of these tests can provide indicators of heart disease, stroke, cancer and Alzheimer. Jennings strongly recommends that those interested in attending should pre-register by calling Jennings at 412-469-7010. This will make for a smoother and quicker visit. Jennings was accompanied by David Graham, who serves on the Board of Directors for the Elizabeth Township EMS. Graham expressed to council that his department has developed a great working relationship with the West Elizabeth community and he hopes to continue that rapport. They also expressed a need for volunteers to assist at the event with signing people in, serving coffee and numerous other jobs. To volunteer, contact Jennings at the registration number shown above. In other business: • Susan Bowers Pershing began her role as council representative at the November meeting. Her first action was to approve the motion brought by William Wolfgang to allow a resident to build a ramp in front of her home to make it accessible for her scooter. • Council was put on notice about a car accident that occurred in West Mifflin. They weren't sure why West Elizabeth would need to be contacted in regards to the accident and the secretary said she would look further into it. • Council agreed to renew membership in the Chamber of Commerce. • Pershing reported that the swings were taken down and the painting by the street department looked great.
West Elizabeth's newly appointed council members; Susan Bowers-Pershing and Ray Armstrong Jr.
• Councilman Ray Armstrong Jr. made necessary repairs to the furnace in the borough building. Repairs are now needed for the borough garage roof to stop the leaking. • The borough is seeking a substitute Crossing Guard. Those interested in the position can apply at the West Elizabeth Borough building. • Bill Wolfgang informed council that all of the demolitions are complete except one. As mentioned previously, the home to be demolished is behind a home that is occupied. The gas and water lines are shared by both homes. In order to demolish the home the lines have to be moved; as not to interfere with service of the occupied home. The residents there refuse to pay the cost, citing it is not solely their responsibility. The gas company and water company also refuse to share in the cost. Wolfgang decided to remove the home from the demolition list. • Wolfgang also states that a complaint received about a resident putting sewage into the river turned out to be false. • Councilman Steve Hallam informed Elizabeth Borough police that Rita Wall, owner of 7-11, asked if a police officer can meet her in the parking lot when she arrives in the morning to open the store. On more than one occasion there was someone standing in the parking lot when she was getting out of her car and walking towards the door. At first they are standing there as if they are watching her and then they are gone. Officer-in-Charge, John Snelson, said that he will do his best to have an officer in the area at the time but it may pose a problem if they have a call at he same time. • The Elizabeth Borough police answered 30 calls during the month of October. They handed out three traffic citations and one non-traffic citation.
REMINDER: Editorial Deadline for the January issue is
DECEMBER 10
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Hey Washington D.C. – This is How You Do it! Release of 2010 Tentative Budget Finds Nottingham Township in Excellent Financial Shape By J.R. Brower Nottingham Township Treasurer Shirley Madar presented the township’s tentative budget for the year 2010 to the Board of Supervisors at their November 19 meeting. The release of the tentative budget culminates astute financial planning by Madar throughout the year along with fiscally conservative spending habits by the supervisors. The 2010 tentative budget in the amount of $1,135,907 that is available for appropriations was ironed out in a special workshop meeting on November 11. The strength of the tentative budget begins with a balance sheet showing $1,153,350 in total assets, derived from capital reserve funds of $813,097, general funds of $308,950, escrow funds of $20,983 and state liquid fuels funds of $10,320. After taking account for restricted investments, operating reserves, restricted earned interest, anticipated receipts of funds (accounts receivable) and unpaid bills (accounts payable), the township will have a fund balance carried forward into 2010 in the amount of $268,855. The tentative budget shows total revenues in the amount of $867,052, of which the major portions include taxes of $652,392, intergovernmental revenues of $148,744 and licenses and permits of $37,100. Projected expenditures for 2010 in the amount of $936,352 include the following: $190,187 for general government, $88,525 for public safety, $5,062 for health and welfare, $509,416 for public works, $11,550 for
culture / recreation, $250 for conservation and development, $130,362 for employer paid benefits / township insurance / health insurance and $1,000 for other financing uses. Of the total tentative budget of $1,135,907, unappropriated funds will amount to $199,555. After recently joining the Pennsylvania Local Government Investment Trust (PLGIT), Nottingham Township will now be able to invest surplus funds in order to insure more diversity and better yield for its reserves. Madar said that she plans to start out by putting some excess funds into PLGIT and then begin to watch the results before adding more to the trust. “Shirley monitors our finances on the daily basis,” said Board Chairman Raymond Barley. “The township is in a solid financial condition.” “A lot of municipalities have to borrow money to get through the end of the year. Since I’ve been here in the ‘80s, we’ve never had to borrow.” The Board of Supervisors approved authorization to advertise the 2010 tentative budget, which will state that it is available for public inspection at the township office in the Municipal Building. Another motion was approved to authorize an advertisement of the board’s intent to appoint a certified public accountant to audit the township’s accounts for the year 2009 in place of the elected auditors. Final adoption of the Nottingham Township 2010 budget is expected to take place at the board’s December 21 meeting.
Beer Kegs Taps Ice Check out our HOLIDAY BEERS!
Mon-Thurs: 10 am - 9 pm Friday: 10 am - 10 pm Saturday: 10 am - 10 pm Sunday: noon - 5 pm
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7jh^cZhh BZgX]Vci CZlh Study Rates Jefferson Regional Medical Center as One of Only 3 Hospitals in Western Pennsylvania Ranked Among the Top 10 Percent in Cardiac Care Jefferson Regional Medical Center is one of only three hospitals in Western Pennsylvania ranked among the top 10 percent in the nation for Cardiac Care and Cardiac Surgery. For treatment of stroke, Jefferson Regional is ranked the best in the Pittsburgh area, according to a study issued today by HealthGrades, the leading independent healthcare ratings organization. The nation’s nearly 5,000 nonfederal hospitals were all included in the sweeping study, which examined mortality rates and complication rates from government data from 2006, 2007 and 2008. As a result, Jefferson Regional receives the 2010 HealthGrades Cardiac Care Excellence Award™, Cardiac Surgery Excellence Award™ and the Stroke Care Excellence Award™. Jefferson Regional is ranked #8 in Pennsylvania for Cardiac Care and for Cardiac Surgery. It is ranked the best in the Pittsburgh area for Stroke Care and #6 in the state, with three years in a row of five star ratings. According to the HealthGrades study, Jefferson Regional’s other achievements are: Five-Star rating for Valve Replacement Surgery two years in a row (2009 &
2010), including the highest possible star rating in 2010. Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Attack in 2010 Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure - 3 years in a row (2008 – 2010), including the highest possible star ratings for treatment of Heart Failure - 2 years in a row (2009 & 2010) “We are extremely proud of the results of this study, which comes at a time when healthcare organizations such as ours are facing extraordinary challenges in our efforts to provide the communities we serve with top-quality care for the lowest possible costs,� said Thomas Timcho, president and CEO, Jefferson Regional Medical Center. “To be recognized as one of only three hospitals in Western Pennsylvania ranked among the top 10 percent in the nation for Cardiac Care – in addition to being ranked best in the region in Stroke Care – inspires our medical staff and employees and confirms our commitment to providing the excellence in health care that our patients deserve and expect from Jefferson Regional Medical Center.� The HealthGrades twelfth annual Hospital Quality in America study, the largest annual report of its kind, analyzed patient outcomes from nearly 40 million Medicare hospitalization records.
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BUSINESS & MERCHANT NEWS
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Grand Openings!
Rostraver Sharpening Service
Look what’s new in Town
Town: Rostraver Owners: Bruce Stimak and Dad, Michael Stimak (retired)
B.R. Watt Costume House Opens in Bethel Park Barbara Rae Watt of Dormont recently opened her shop, B.R. Watt Costume House, at 5791 Library Road in Bethel Park (next to Evey Hardware). The shop offers costumes, professional and costume wigs, pet clothing, dog cookies, jewelry, accessories, Steelers merchandise, and lots more. For the upcoming holiday season, those looking for elf shoes or a Mrs. Claus dress need look no further! The store offers a multitude of Christmas items. Having worked in the business for 40 years, Watts also specializes in advertising novelties, Stop by and visit Barbara Watts and her assistant, including T-shirts, pens, Cassie Scarpino, to browse through the store’s endless pens, business cards, supply of interesting items. magnetic signs, and more. Watt believes in offering her customers a real experience. “I don’t believe in these Internet shops,” she says. “They take away jobs and they’re hurting the economy. I would eventually like to be able to offer someone a job!” Store hours: Monday through Saturday, 12 to 7 pm, and Sunday, 12 to 4 pm. For more information, call 412-308-6214. If you are in need of a pet sitter, Watts’ assistant Cassie Scarpino offers this service.
Years in business: 60 years Address: 4902 Rt. #51 South, Rostraver, PA 15012 Phone: 724-379-4013 Hours: Monday through Friday 2:00 pm 5 pm, Saturday all day, closed Sunday.
Michael Stimak (seated) and Son, Bruce Stimak. Michael founded Rostraver Sharpening Service 60 years ago.
Business Spotlight By Alice Harris
Products and Services: Precision machine sharpening of circular saws (carbide and steel), hand saws (miter, crosscut, and rip-clean, set, and sharpen), retoothing service, drill bits & router bits, planer blades, chisels, knives, scissors & pinking shearers, hand & electric hedge trimmers, lawnmower blades tracked and magnetic balanced, reel mowers, garden tools, small engine tune-ups, welding and brazing. Motto: “If It Has An Edge, We Can Sharpen It!”
CORRECTION The “Business Spotlight” feature in the November 2009 issue of the Union-Finley Messenger, included some incorrect information about the UPS Store located in South Park Shops. Shown below is the corrected information. We apologize for the error and any confusion this may have caused. Store: UPS Store # 1360 Telephone #: 412-854-5955 Friday Hours: Open 8A – 6P Opened in November 1990 (19 years in business)
Finleyville Community Center Hall rental available for up to 100 persons
• Parties • Receptions • Meetings • Shows • Bingo and more! For rental information call
724-348-9656
3547 Marion Avenue • Finleyville, PA 15332
(% C)" # x 1409578
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Walter R. Levdansky
Three Local Girls Raise Funds by Selling Cupcakes
Town: Elizabeth (grew up in Bunola) Family: Married to Irene Levdansky for 58 years. Children: David, Joanne, Jane Ellen, Robert, and James.
Resident Spotlight
Occupation: Retired carpenter from U.S. Steel Clairton Works Carpenter Shop, 36 years. WWII Veteran, U.S.Army Infantry 1942-45. Served in the Battle of the Bulge. Hobbies and Interests: Enjoying retirement, still doing some carpentry, hunting, and VFW.
Cupcakes for a Cause fundraisers - (l-r) Katie Sonnett, Madeline Sonnett and Isabella Warden
By Alice Harris
September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and local residents Katie Sonnett, Madeline Sonnett and Isabella Warden participated in “Cupcakes for a Cause”. They went door to door selling cupcakes in their neighborhood and raised $55, which was donated to CancerCare for Kids, a program which provides free professional support services to any child affected by cancer, whether the diagnosis is their own or that of a loved one.
Remembering Heidi In Memoriam of Heidi K Lantz, who we lost 10 years ago on December 5th. She will always be alive in our hearts and thoughts. Heidi is missed everyday by Mom, Steve, Theresa, Michael and her nephew Thomas whom she never got to meet.
Lab hours: 7-11 a.m. There are days that we are here until 3 p.m. Please call for information on our hours.
724-348-6699
6116 Brownsville Road Ext. Suite 107 Martik Office Complex Finleyville, PA 15332
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 35 LOCAL PEOPLE NEWS www.unionfinley.com
This Little Guy Plays a Big Role 8-Year Old Union Township Resident to Play Tiny Tim in Cal U Holiday Musical Eight-year-old Mathew Fedorek of Union Township has been chosen to play the role of Tiny Tim in the California University per8-year old Mathew Fedorek will play the role of formance of “A CHRISTMAS CAROL , The Tiny Tim in “A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Musical.” The Musical,” at California University. Mathew, a third grader in the Ringgold School District began taking classes at the Pittsburgh CLO Academy last year after attending the stage production of Disney's "The Lion King.” After reading the theatre program and discovering that the boy who played Young Simba was only nine years old, Mathew decided that he had two years to practice and prepare himself to get on the stage. Mathew auditioned for the role of Tiny Tim in early October. Mathew is the son of Jeff and Amy Fedorek of Union Township. A CHRISTMAS CAROL, The Musical, will be held at California University of Pennsylvania in The Mainstage Theatre in Mathew (at right) rehearses Steele Hall. Performance dates are with another cast member. December 10, 11 and 12 at 8 pm, and December 12 and 13 at 2 pm. Charles Dickens' classic gets the full Broadway treatment in this Alan Menken-Lynn Ahrens adaptation of A Christmas Carol. Start off the holiday season with this newest Cal U tradition. This is the musical version that has had New York theatre goers gasping in wonder and merriment for years. Join the cast of community and university actors as they perform this classic tale complete with a score that is filled with beautiful melodies and emotional lyrics. Witness the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge change into a loving family man who will forever hold Christmas in his heart.
Judy Abel Recognized With Tradition of Caring Award Judy Abel, Mammography Technologist at Canonsburg General Hospital was honored with the 2009 Tradition of Caring Award in October. This award recognizes an employee that exemplifies the tradition of caring expected by Canonsburg General Hospital’s patients, physicians, fellow staff members, and the community. “Ms. Abel has earned the respect and trust of patients, physicians, and co-workers,” Kim Malinky, CEO of Canonsburg General Hospital stated. “She demonstrates pride in herself, her career, and the hospital.” The Tradition of Caring Award is given to a person that demonstrates outstanding job knowledge, performance, and communications skills, which Abel exhibits on a daily basis.
(Cypress Santas, Continued from page 1) mining exactly how she’d like to bring it to life. Pastore also spreads the joy of painting among her friends, as she invites them to partake in her craft of decorative painting by offering “classes” every Monday evening. She says, “this is our therapy!” They have recently taken to painting on slate. Although a career teacher, Pastore was always interested in art. Even so, she decided to become a teacher, as her immediate and The handmade creations reflect Phyllis Pastore’s extended family (her maiden name was Miller) vivid imagination. She paints Victorian, Olde has a long history of teaching. “Back then, World, patriotic, and traditional versions families had a lot of influence on your career of Kris Kringle himself. decision and mine encouraged me to become a teacher,” she said. “I can still pursue my artwork in my retirement.” Her four children all went through the West Jefferson Hills District, where she spent her teaching career at Jones, Lincoln, and Roosevelt elementary schools, which all closed during her tenure. She retired in 1991. Pastore did pursue her interest in art by doing some decorative painting back in the 80s, and she was one of the original owners of Country Kreations in Elizabeth. The store still exists in Finleyville today, but she is no longer affiliated. Pastore’s business spreads by word of mouth, and she sells up to 100 Santas per year. They range in price from $25 to $75. As far as she knows, there is no one else in the area that uses cypress roots to create Santas. She sold this year’s remaining lot of about 20 Santas to someone in Slippery Rock who plans to use them as centerpieces. The cypress roots Pastore does not collect the Santas herself, as she chooses to sell come from Louisiana, them all. “I live with them all year long, so it’s not hard for me to part where they are harwith them,” she says. “I take pleasure in knowing they will bring vested, boiled, and Christmas spirit to someone else’s home.” For more information on dried in a kiln. these Santas or to order one for next Christmas, call 412-384-6298.
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Home & Garden Tile Projects Made Easier (NAPSI)-Updated kitchens and baths are key selling points for homes, and adding new tiles or replacing old ones on countertops, backsplashes and tub and bath surrounds can add instant style and resale value to a home. Beautiful, durable tiles on these key surfaces can infuse color and drama and set the tone for any decor. Until now, however, many do-it-yourselfers have hesitated to take on tiling projects because the process is messy and the technical demands of traditional tile adhesives, such as mortar or mastic, can be intimidating to first-timers. Now a new tile adhesive can take much of the muss, fuss, stress and cost out of tiling. Tiles can be installed in three easy steps: (1) Peel off the liner, (2) stick tile in place and (3) apply grout the same day. You can forget about the messy and daunting process of mixing and applying traditional tile adhesives. A process that used to consume a whole weekend can now be completed in just one day.
Big Cost Savings Bondera TileMatSet can be easily applied to any clean, flat, level surface including drywall, plywood, old tile, laminate and Formica. The product's innovative technology repels water and is mold and crack resistant. Environmentally friendly features include recyclable plastic release liners and no dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors or dust. With Bondera, a typical DIY kitchen or bathroom project can save up to 40 percent versus the cost of hiring a contractor. For more information, visit www.BonderaTileMatSet.com.
Tips for Organizing Your Closet Space (NewsUSA) - Closets look great in model homes, but when it comes to upgrading or redesigning a closet yourself, the result can sometimes be less than thrilling. With some planning and organization, however, assembling and maintaining the closet of your dreams doesn't have to be a task of your nightmares. Here are some tips to help your next closet-organizing project go off without a hang-up: • Properly prepare. Missy Gerber of Organizers Northwest in Portland, Ore., a member of the Racor's Gravity Closet System National Association of Professional Organizers, keeps closets organized. recommends setting a specific date for a closet remodeling project and allowing five hours to get started. Remove everything from the closet and clean it thoroughly. Make wall repairs as needed and apply a fresh coat of paint. • Decide which clothes you will keep. Apply the "20 percent rule." In general, 20 percent of clothes are worn on a regular basis, 10 percent on special occasions, and 70 percent are not worn at all. If you do not love the item and feel great wearing it, get rid of it. When arranging the items you decide to keep, visibility and accessibility are key points to keep in mind. If you can't see a piece of clothing in your closet, you probably won't wear it. • Categorize. Sort the clothes by categories: pants, shirts, blouses, skirts and so forth. Gerber recommends purchasing a set of swivel-head plastic hangers. These work best and are inexpensive. • Consider installing an organizer. Organizers can be great tools for immediately getting the most out of your closet. Racor's new Gravity Closet System, for instance, is an easy-to-install unit that fastens to the wall in two areas and is immediately ready to use. The organizer features an extrudedaluminum frame that anchors its support system. The shelving and hanging rods are adjustable, giving homeowners the ability to customize the unit to almost any configuration. Combined, they can support loads of up to 200 pounds. The basic two-shelf and rod system measures 32 inches wide by 72 inches high. An addon, four-shelf extension kit is 16 inches wide by 72 inches high. Racor products are available at retailers nationwide and online at www.racorinc.com.
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Study Confirms Alarm Systems Deter Residential Burglaries (NewsUSA) - During a time when residential burglaries are on the rise, it is comforting to learn that home alarm systems really do deter break-ins. A comprehensive study of five years of statistics by researchers at the A new study shows that home alarm systems deter Rutgers University School of Criminal burglaries and keep neighborhoods safe. Justice (SCJ) in Newark found that residential burglar alarm systems decrease crime. While other studies have concluded that most burglars avoid alarm systems, "The Impact of Home Burglar Alarm Systems on Residential Burglaries" study is the first to focus on alarm systems while scientifically ruling out other factors that could have impacted the crime rate. The research analyzed crime data provided by the Newark Police Department. "Data showed that a steady decrease in burglaries in Newark between 2001 and 2005 coincided with an increase in the number of registered home burglar alarms," said study author Dr. Seungmug Lee, professor at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio. "The study credits the alarms with the decrease in burglaries and the city's overall crime rate." The study found that an installed burglar alarm makes a dwelling less attractive to wouldbe and active intruders and protects the home without displacing burglaries to nearby homes. The study also concluded that the deterrent effect of alarms is felt in the community at large. "Neighborhoods in which burglar alarms were densely installed have fewer incidents of residential burglaries than the neighborhoods with fewer burglar alarms," the study noted. The more than 300-page study was funded by the non-profit Alarm Industry Research and Educational Foundation. Rutgers University School of Criminal Justice professors George L. Kelling, Marcus Felson and Ronald V. Clarke and Professor Robert D. McCrie of John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York were members of the study's Faculty Advisory Committee. Dr. Clarke served as committee chair. "This type of study assists police departments to effectively deploy their limited resources," said Newark Police Director Garry McCarthy. "The School of Criminal Justice provides valuable insight into the positive impact alarm systems can have in preventing residential burglaries." For more information about "The Impact of Home Burglar Alarm Systems on Residential Burglaries" study, please log on to www.AIREF.org.
Stain-Fighting Secrets (NAPSI) - Here are five suggestions on how to treat such spills as grape juice, jelly, fruit punch and ketchup, which are likely to occur when youngsters are home from school. 1. Use a general-purpose spotter that is available at the grocery or carpet retailer. 2. Agitate (compress, rub gently or distribute chemical evenly), then blot. Continue blotting until the stain no longer transfers to your cloth or until the stain disappears. 3. If necessary, reapply cleaning chemical evenly, agitate and blot again. 4. Rinse with warm water or flush with a personal extractor such as a carpet-cleaning machine with water-only rinse setting. 5. Dry the spot with a hair dryer or fan.
Don't cry over spilled milk or juice or many other kinds of stains. Instead, heed a few hints on keeping carpet clean.
If the stain remains or if carpet color is lost, it may be time to hire an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification professional. To locate an IICRC certified firm, call (800) 835-4624 or visit www.CertifiedCleaners.org.
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Recent Recent Local Local Real Real Estate Estate Transactions Transactions Seller
Buyer
Address
Price
UNION TOWNSHIP Mary Sacco Estate of Harry England Estate of Harry England Estate of Joseph Nosal Maronda Homes Inc.
Melinda and Suzanne Liebau Michael Mantz Michael Mantz Kurtis and Erik DiNardo Alvin and Joann Opachick
68 Mingo Circle Drive Oak Lane Oak Lane Nasal Lane 121 Via Reggio Way
MONONGAHELA Donna Spalla et al. Kristi Woods Arlesse Shanley Jean Koch Ashcraft Construction Co. Inc. April Forlini James Barnhart Shirley Comfort Diane Nath Kevin Sweeney
Cynee Landley Kayla Wolfe Ashley Marie Campagna Brenda Kennedy and John Demchak Roman Catholic Diocese Pittsburgh Stephanie Morgan Karl and Wendy Fisch William Beresh Jr. David Chevine Jr. Gary and Deborah Lenzi
1241 Corrin Ave. 417 High St. 915 Lawrence St. 401 Third St. 225 Park Ave. 23 Fourth Ave. 799 Cassidy Ave. 412 Jackson St. 430 Parkinson St. West Alley
$55,000 $59,900 $46,000 $35,000 $3,000 $89,000 $49,400 $68,000 $49,500 $12,000
MONONGAHELA Estate of Grace Eleanor Piccolo Estate of Ronald Boros HSBC Bank David T Chevine Jr. Trust Estate of George Edward Kerfonta
James Poulos Kevin Krise Jodi Porterfield Chad and Michelle Barkey Janice Sorg
132 Chess St. 116 Morton St. 461 Fourth Ave. 209 Seventh Ave. 900 Wood St.
$84,900 $15,000 $51,000 $210,000 $83,000
CARROLL TOWNSHIP American General Financial Services Estate of Richard Parkhurst Veterans Administration Estate of Joseph Benney Nicholas Reitz Stephen Yoney Jr. Estate of Paul Elms Jean Isaac Ryan Moncini Estate of Stephen Yoney Jr.
Thomas Volkar Thomas Mimidis Anthony Mascetta Connie Benline Nathan and Tasha Hrutkay Shawn Dawson Angela Miller Amy Round Stephen Peterman Lauren Harbaugh and John Harbaugh Jr.
51 Second Street Ext. 11 Lawrence St. 41 W. Euclid Ave. 1353 Wickerham Drive 55 Donora Road 92 Locust Ave. 1898 Route 2023 1539 Fourth St. 3 Cherry St. 72 Locust Ave.
$99,900 $6,000 $86,900 $89,000 $98,000 $147,850 $77,500 $89,900 $117,000 $159,900
ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP Kathryn Derdich Jason Scott Robert Fontana Mary Ellen Wampler Fern Gilbert estate et al. Albert Delapenna Charles Kocher John McGrail Ronald Maurer Jr. Dolores Volpato Robert Palm , Stephen Bornyas Mathew aka Matthew Peterson
Pamela and John Relja Bree Thompson Brendan Petrick Jennifer Lee Joseph and Rebecca Mrazek David Crawley Alma Simonetta Donald Lee Higinbotham III and Jill Pry Jason and Lori Paul Richard and Deborah Foscoe 1712 Lodge St. Matthew Peterson and Kara Craig
540 Oberdick Drive 111 Sherwick Drive 104 Braemont Place 803 E Smithfield St. 835 Everglade Drive 560 Industry Road 116 Williamsburg Drive 2029 Country Club Drive 103 Dorman Drive 1008 E. Smithfield St. $18000 Long Hollow Road
$119,000 $105,000 $162,500 $88,000 $162,000 $72,000 $145,000 $129,000 $124,900 $58,000
Terry Nolder Estate of Ruth Moore Estate of Jane Rojohn Barry Belczyk Theresa Hays
Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. trustee Christine Burns Cynthia Rojohn , 829 Pinecrest Drive , $39000 David and JoAnn Hartos Zachary Kinser
301 Long St. 109 Oberdick Drive
Ask Me about the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit 3523 Washington Avenue Finleyville, PA 15332
Office 724.348.7470
Fax 724.348.8707 • Cell 724.348.8028 Email: marianne@century21.com www.c21frontier.com
538 Princess Drive 294 Lincoln Hall Road
$31,000 $1,500 $1,500 $28,500 $185,000
$1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $30,096) $1,670 by sheriff's deed $85,000 $177,000 $110,000
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Recent Recent Local Local Real Real Estate Estate Transactions Transactions Seller
Buyer
Address
Price
Elizabeth Township Authority Estate of Charlies Sovitski
Pennsylvania American Water Co. Tony Brinson
Scenery Drive 607 Shaffer Ave.
$185,000 $75,000
ELIZABETH BOROUGH Chesapeake Loan Servicing LLC Jason Dull et al. St. Michael Parish Charitable Trust Franchise USA LLC
Michael Dowden Daniel and Patricia Bekavac Mel Rae Inc. A & P Convenience Corp.
715 Eighth Ave. 400 Market St. and Monongahela Road 231 Fifth Ave. 141 McKeesport Road
$51,530 $150,000 $70,000 $450,000
CLAIRTON George Ramanos Jr. Gary Beaver Rebecca Shereran Stokes Estate of John Bodnar Larry Justice et al. Estate of Louise Phillips Estate of Helen Sedor Martha Rogers Buerkle Estate of William Archibald Irvin Jr. Vince Squires Compass Federal Savings Bank Estate of Alice Hess Estate of Charles Davis Compass Federal Savings Bank
National City Bank John Surdyk Autumn Gomez Ellen Hayes Gary McDonough Dean and Tammy Maksin National City Bank Federal National Mortgage Assn. Metropolitan Achdiocese Pittsburgh Byzan Lawrence and Mary Vash Thomas and Betty Jane Berich Saundra Fleet Lota and David Jones Aaron Archibald
467 Carnegie Ave. $1,793 by sheriff's deed 913 Jefferson Drive $36,000 587 Shady Court $46,500 422 Shaw Ave. $8,000 519 Seventh St. $25,000 914 Miller Ave. $11,000 610 St. Clair Ave. $1,609 by sheriff's deed 744 Large Ave. $1,542 by sheriff's deed Park Ave. $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $1,140) 1130 Toman Ave. $3,3000 858 Miller Ave. $3,000 316 N. Third St. $11,000 161 Pennsylvania Ave. $48,000 905 Vankirk St. $5,000
SOUTH PARK Jeffrey Harman trustee Robert Lasko Jr. Heartland Homes Inc. John Alfred Weber Patricia Miller Sandra Carter Lawrence Gorman Heartland Homes Inc. Chad Cox Timothy Palus
Fred and Janet DeLuca Brandon and Esther Parks Vincent Bonacci and Amber Fitzwilliam Gregg Hammond Jr. and Allison Hammond Joseph Assad Dennis Frasco Michael and Pamela Wagner Elmer and Mary DePra Erin Russell and Daniel Story Rudolph Seles Jr.
1439 Greenbriar Court 2831 Kathy St. 1227 Snee Drive 1536 Amelia Ave. 2873 Amy Drive 3098 Piney Bluff Drive 985 Ridgebury Drive 1249 Snee Drive 117 Sylvania Drive 6513 Ventura Drive
$184,000 $125,000 $337,143 $135,000 $90,000 $149,900 $279,900 $251,769 $230,000 $139,900
Don’t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Home &Gardent Section. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177
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Page 40 ——————————————————————————————————
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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Doctors of Carpetology We make house calls • Carpets, Ceramics, Vinyl & Hardwood • Family owned and operated • Residential & commercial • Financing available • Fully insured 3584 Washington Ave. Finleyville, PA 15332
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Your source for hometown, community news...
the Union-
Finley MESSENGER Phone or Fax: 412.249.8177 Email: news@unionfinley.com
Seller
Buyer
Address
Price
Cathy Brown Mark Gillece Martin Freyer Jr. Catherine Pipolo Heartland Homes Inc. Abby Holdings L.P. et al. George Andrisko George Parfitt III Robert Ference First Commonwealth Bank Sean Burr Kathleen Taylor et al. Angela Kuhn O'Hare
Chad Cox , Timothy and Annette Palus Moueed Niamat Rajabi Russell and Christina Szewczyk Melinda and Nicholas Richard Karlowsky John and Jennifer Zunic Patrick Remington Jason Carlson Dennis Nugent Shields Asphalt LLC Cynthia Cerminara Robert and Frances Bittner Holly and Gregory Peiritsh
6519 Zupancic Drive 2431 Bonnie Dell Drive 6356 Crestview Drive 1909 Sheplar Drive 1240 Snee Drive 3045 Amy Drive 1468 Berryman Ave. 6042 Broad St. 3063 Dara Drive 3606 Edgewood St. 2919 Overhill St. 1868 Wallace Road 2260 Watchfield Drive
$155,000 $295,000 $103,000 $144,500 $349,306 $147,000 $72,000 $109,900 $101,000 $55,000 $69,894 $135,000 $239,000
PLEASANT HILLS Gloriann Turney Robert Huemmrich Mary Beth Campolongo Helen Stilley Douglas Wildman Russell Richardson Michael Sanders Debra Stoltz Anderson Willard Rockwell IV Margaret Ford Dennis Sheffler William Sinclair
Brian and Jaclyn Simon Alicia Rauso Joshua Jackson and Christine Rosenhoover Kyle Ferkett Benjamin Louis and Kristin Lodico Veterans Administration Jayme Andrisko Daniel Flynn and Linda Christopher Kenneth Foster Leota and Mary Ruffing HSBC Bank USA NA trustee Amie Walters
333 Picture Drive 49 Sunrise Drive 435 Temona Drive 167 Woodland Drive 159 Crestview Drive 136 McClellan Drive 123 Picture Bluff Drive 154 Delano Drive 353 Delano Drive 603 Inglefield Drive 261 Old Clairton Road 89 W. Bruceton Road
$203,500 $49,000 $123,500 $92,500 $154,900 $1,680 by sheriff's deed $139,000 $115,500 $121,000 $240,000 $1,670 by sheriff's deed $115,000
JEFFERSON HILLS John Thatcher MB2K Development Inc. Nadine Plant et al. NVR Inc. Charles Blatchford David Lycett et al. Blackwood Pointe Assoc. LLC , MB2K Development Inc. MB2K Development Inc. NVR Inc. Howard Kwait Gill Hall Land Co. NVR Inc. William Corbin Lorraine Krandel Barbara Ann Dyson Carol Colgan Dana Mattarock
John and Reshelle Barrett Thomas and Nicole D'Antonio Susan Spallone Gary and Cynthia Motts Kenneth Frye Edith Armstrong Community Bank Lawrence and Michelle Vernon Donald and Rita Baileys Kevin and Colleen Concannon Shawn and Sheila Harris Daniel and Elisabeth Chalovich Eric Reiss Daniel Corbin et al. and Debbie McIntosh Travis and Sharbani Fullem Tushar and Mamta Naik Joseph Colgan John and Gail Withers
Beams Run Road Chestnut Ridge Drive 1944 Gill Hall Road 8004 Independence Drive 2013 New York Ave. 2215 State St. Gillcrest Drive Old Clairton Road Old Clairton Road 1346 S. Randolph Drive 110 Springhouse Drive Woodwind Drive 8016 Independence Drive 306 New World Drive 359 New World Drive 1613 Route 885 112 St. James Court 145 Wray Large Road
$36,900 $43,000 $87,000 $268,405 $145,200 $100,000 $1,681 by sheriff's deed $15,900 $15,900 $219,645 $270,000 $310,000 $284,009 $74,000 $95,900 $96,000 $130,000 $220,000
NOTTINGHAM TOWNSHIP Thomas Dailey Dorothy Hencz Jesus Mestre Deutsche Bank National Trust Co.
Ronald and Judith Klingensmith Charles Augenstein and Amanda Eisengart Kelly Kostelich and Jared Scott Brian Hise and Erica Dunlap
136 Valley Road 582 Green Valley Road 462 Munntown Road 928 Sugar Run Road
$285,000 $150,000 $180,000 $140,000
PETERS TOWNSHIP Eric Pearson Wadwell Group John Lesjak
Jennifer Haggerty NVR Inc. David and Eta Fletcher
114 Estates Drive Iron Run Road 1135 Moccasin Drive
$346,500 $91,325 $530,000
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Recent Local Real Estate Transactions Seller
Buyer
Estate of Alice Mae Gustkowski Russell Ergood IV Maria Murdock Theodore Taylor IV Mary Ann Wilson
Michael and Christine Hinegardner Joseph and Patricia Steitz Bank America NA James and Evelyn McPherson Nancy Vargas
Beth Zimick NVR Inc. Gloria J Szulkoski Family Trust Adam Brock John Marcocelli Jr. et al. Raymond Ballantine John Costa Joe John Canon Kenneth Beck Wells Fargo Bank NA trustee Nick Johns Jeffrey Serena Costa Industries LLC Pamela Wilsom Great Meadows L.P. Daniel Wallach Jerome Gordon Jr. Donna Thwaite Doris Regotti et al. Susan Schneider Etta Young Great Meadows L.P. Brian Essary Brian Essary Christopher Macey
Neil and Nicole Montgomery Amanda Laporte Rainer Putz and Su Si Ng Robert and Dorothy Wells Pavel Shlyahovsly Nicole Stenger and Steele Stenger Jr. John and Evelyn Ross Scott and Kimberly Forse Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. Daniel and Kathleen Donovan William and Susan Jennifer Peters Jeffrey Serena and Nina Catalucci John Carson and Carrie Stokes Geno Levi and Cindy Gaskill NVR Inc. Charles Rinaldo Jr. Matthew Eller Gerald and Elsie Bakowski Larry and Karen Watkins Joseph Rush Jr. Nancy and Randy Choura NVR Inc. Investors Mark Acquistions LLC Mark Hoskins Javier and Lindsey Peraza
Address
Price
103 Robinhood Lane 412 Timberlake Drive 850 E. McMurray Road 201 Fox Run Drive 140 Friar Lane
$207,000 $282,500 $1,137 by sheriff's deed $459,000 $0 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $75,933) 106 Hardwood Drive $575,000 183 Iron Run Road $428,375 141 Lake Colony Drive $330,000 101 Meadow St. $142,500 217 Rutledge Drive $173,000 106 Sycamore Drive $240,000 320 Turkeyfoot Road $380,000 322 Buckingham Drive $140,000 175 Druid Drive $1,160 by sheriff's deed 312 Fox Run Drive $350,000 121 Golden Eagle Drive $108,000 850 Old Washington Road $67,418 Park Ave. $65,000 274 Quail Run Road $80,000 315 Sutherland Drive $86,000 3510 Washington Road $250,000 338 Buffalo Ridge Road $375,000 174 Delaware Trail $258,000 97 Little John Drive $350,000 2729 Locust Drive $149,000 235 Roscommon Place $188,250 137 Scenic Ridge Drive $86,000 256 Springdale Road $145,000 256 Springdale Road $145,000 425 Timberlake Drive $250,000
SEND US YOUR NEWS! Mail: Union-Finley Messenger, P.O. Box 103 Finleyville, PA 15332
Phone or Fax: 412.249.8177
Email:
Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>. Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.
news@unionfinley.com
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HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING Spend Time With Your Guests, Not Your Kitchen (NewsUSA) - You barely saw your friends and family the last time you hosted a holiday soiree. As your guests mingled under the mistletoe, you baked trays of mini quiche and assembled shrimp cocktails, leaving little time to enjoy their company. Sound familiar? If so, you might want to rethink your entertaining strategy -- it is possible to throw an elegant gathering without spending all of your time in the kitchen. Deana Gunn and Wona Miniati, authors of the cookbook "Cooking with All Things Trader Joe's," say that it's a simple matter of buying the right ingredients. For example, making homemade puff pastry requires hours of folding dough on itself -but frozen puff pastry, which is available in most grocery stores, makes for easy and impressive appetizers. "Use the grocery store as your prep kitchen," says Miniati. "With the right purchases, you can make gourmet appetizers in minutes." Try serving these surprisingly simple Pastry Bites at your next gathering. Alternate fillings could include goat cheese with cranberries, pesto with roasted red peppers, or ricotta and pine nuts.
Good to Go
Restaurant & Catering
Pastry Bites (Ingredients) 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed 3-4 tablespoons bruschetta or olive spread (Directions) Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the puff pastry sheet into nine equal squares. In the center of each square, drop a rounded teaspoon of bruschetta. Place squares evenly on a baking sheet and bake 15 minutes. Serve immediately.
Pastry Bites provide an impressive appetizer in just minutes.
• For a quick alternative to pumpkin tarts, enfold pumpkin butter in puff pastry dough:
Pumpkin Spice Turnovers (Ingredients) 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed 1/2 cup pumpkin butter, apple butter or any fruit jam (Directions) Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut each puff pastry sheet into four equal squares. Place one tablespoon pumpkin butter in the center of each square. Fold the pastry into a triangle, then press and seal the edges. Repeat for each square. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden.
Menu Items Inclu y a din lid o g H • baked ham • green bean almandine • fried or baked chicken • turkey • au gratin or scalloped potatoes
• holiday cookie trays... • ask us about our original "Good To Go" sandwhich rings
To see more recipes or find more information about the cookbook, "Cooking with All Things Trader Joe's," visit www.cookingwithtraderjoes.com.
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Tips to Ease the Holiday Hustle (NewsUSA) - The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but they may also be the busiest. As the guest list grows, so does the grocery list, not to mention the piles of laundry and dirty dishes. But there's no need to be a Grinch. Turn on the holiday cheer by taking advantage of some simple tips from the experts in Whirlpool brand's test kitchens: • Prepare ahead. Over-estimate the number of guests expected to attend, and bring full recipes to the grocery store to make sure every ingredient makes it home. This can help you avoid being a plate short or having to dig out old frosting for the last batch of cookies. • Make sure the refrigerator can handle the shopping list. French-door refrigerators offer wide shelf space to keep large cakes and deli trays fresh leading up to the big holiday meal. A side-by-side refrigerator may fit the bill if fresh ingredients typically fill the shopping cart. • Make it a team effort. Kids can help wash
potatoes or arrange platters, and everyone can help clean up. Also, keeping recipes handy in plastic sleeves ensures everyone is on the same page. • Put appliances to work for you. Convection cooking allows you to bake potatoes and roast turkeys much faster than a traditional oven, while a double oven range can cook two different meals at once, toast crusty breads or keep one dish warm. "Holiday cooks no longer have to play musical pans when trying to broil steaks and warm rolls at the same time, thanks to new double-oven ranges," said Monica Teague, senior manager, brand experience, Whirlpool. "In addition, knowing how to properly load the dishwasher can ease clean-up once everyone is stuffed. Greasy pots and pans go on the bottom rack facedown or at a slight angle for optimal cleaning, and delicate stemware stay up top, where water pressure is not as strong." • Don't overlook laundry as guests shuffle in and out. Pre-sorting clothes into des-
Board Games Are the Answer for the Holidays (NewsUSA) - How will my Uncle Harry and Grandma Betty get along? What should we do with all the kids? What presents should I get? How much should I spend? Every host over the holidays has a host of Board games, like Loaded Questions, are an questions, but thanks to traditional board inexpensive way for families and friends to games, there is a one-stop solution conspend fun, quality time together. sumers can count on to suit both their holiday gifting and gathering needs. "The right game can be a gift that keeps on giving and bring any group together, no matter how diverse," says Eric Poses, creator of Loaded Questions, a popular discussion-oriented board game with more than 1 million sold. According to a recent survey conducted by GfK Roper, 53 percent of Americans say that socializing with other players is the most enjoyable part of playing a board game. Winning may not be everything, but bringing the whole family together for under $25 is a victory that everyone can enjoy. And it's not just families playing board games. Game nights have also become a growing trend among friends, couples and even singles looking for ways to socialize and maximize their entertainment dollars. Recent figures released by NPD group corroborate this trend, as board game sales are up 10 percent in the face of high-tech video games and the toy industry's overall decline during the first six months of '09. Games like Loaded Questions, with an entrepreneur at the helm, are paving the way for small manufacturers to join the Goliaths of the industry in this trend of inexpensive, social entertainment. This holiday season, Poses is opening up his game for fans to come up with their own "loaded questions" and offering $25,000 in cash prizes for the five winning suggestions. To enter the contest, people can visit www.loadedquestions.com to submit up to five original questions for consideration. The new edition of Loaded Questions is now available at Target, Barnes & Noble, Toys "R" Us, Borders and hundreds of specialty retailers nationwide.
ignated baskets for lights, darks and whites can streamline the process, while some of latest features enable consumers to do laundry at times that fit their hectic holiday schedule. • Fit in a quick nap -- and a load of laundry -- before the guests arrive. The holiday season will feel more "Hava Nagila" than "Bah, Humbug." For more information, visit www.whirlpool.com.
Keep your holidays sane by allowing your appliances to do the work for you.
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Holiday Entertaining
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Holidays are a Great Time to Start a Family Cookbook
Pass your famous cookie recipes onto the family so they may be used for generations to come.
(NewsUSA) - To most of us, the year-end holidays are a time of family, friends and a lot of food. While these times can be hectic with all of the running around that needs to be done, these are also the best times to start a family cookbook project says one expert. "Many of the family holiday traditions start in the kitchen and center around the meals we serve our family and guests at this time of the year, says William Rice, founder and copublisher of the Great Family Cookbook Project, winner of a 2009 WebAward from the Web Marketing Association. "What better way to celebrate our family food traditions than to preserve them for future generations in a family cookbook? There is no better time to start planning a family cookbook than over a wonderful meal during the holidays." A successful family cookbook needs at least one dedicated individual to lead the project as editor. This person gets the project off the ground and invites family members to contribute recipes. Once a labor-intensive task, now families are using the Internet to simplify the project. "A Web site, such as www.FamilyCB.com, can provide step-by-step instructions and tools to help the family member serving as cookbook editor to contact others and encourage them to enter their favorite recipes directly into the online system," says Rice. "The editor then simply reviews and edits the recipes, selects printing options, and sends the cookbook to be printed. The finished printed cookbooks are received in a few weeks time and can be enjoyed and preserved forever." Enjoying the food and dishes we love while being asked to contribute recipes will make the value of the project more real and worthwhile. Also invite everyone to participate -don't just invite the family cooks. For more information on how you can make a family cookbook, visit www.FamilyCB.com
Get Organized For Holiday Entertaining (NewsUSA) - As you start preparing for holiday guests, take a look at your home. Is it crowded with clutter? If so, you might want to think about getting your home in Shelves can help you take advantage of order. After all, you need to make room for vertical space in your closets. a Christmas tree, gifts and stockings! Not sure how to start? Here are some tips from Shelving.com, where folks have been making space work better for almost 50 years. If you need more efficient storage space, they have the answer: â&#x20AC;˘ Maximize your space. If you have an old-fashioned closet with just one shelf and one hanging bar, install shelves and use all the vertical space you have. Most closets only utilize about 50 percent of their storage capacity. With a properly designed shelving system, you can use nearly all of the available space. â&#x20AC;˘ Make items easy to find. You don't want to waste time pawing through closets or searching under beds to find what you need, so don't just jam clutter out of sight. Create a more efficient storage space. Use labeled bins in your closet. Box up and store off season items. Use shelves and drawers to categorize items. â&#x20AC;˘ Decorate with storage space. Put ottomans in the living room, and use them to store magazines or board games. Hang attractive shelves to decorate along your walls. Instead of end tables, use antique chests or drawers that also provide useable storage space. Keeping calm during the chaotic holiday season starts at home â&#x20AC;&#x201C; clutter creates stress and will certainly disrupt the peace and joy of the holiday season. Start with one project (say, a single room or closet) before tackling another. Become happy and organized with the help of The Shelving Store. Visit their Web site at www.TheShelvingStore.com/small for ideas. They offer free shelving designs for just about any space in your home.
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December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 45 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
Pets Winter Care For Your Pet Submitted by the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society Winter brings change in the environment and you need to be aware of special needs of your pet. With proper care your pet can be safe and happy. Here are some good rules to follow: Indoor dogs do not tolerate cold weather well. Go for shorter walks more often. Clean road salt from your pet's feet to protect them from chemical burns. Outdoor dogs need a well insulated house with floor, roof, and four walls that retain their body heat. If temperatures drop below zero bring your dog indoors to the coolest part of the house, which is usually the basement. Some animals can remain outside safely longer in the winter than others. Cats and small dogs that have to wade shoulder-deep in the snow will feel the cold sooner than larger animals. Your pet's health will also affect how long she can stay out. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances can compromise a pet's ability to regulate her own body heat. Regardless of their health, though, no pets should stay outside for unlimited amounts of time in freezing cold weather. Provide fresh water in outside bowls every 3 to 4 hours since water freezes rapidly. Outdoor dogs need an increase in food amounts to boost caloric intake in order to maintain body weight and help regulate body temperature. Pets are attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze which kills thousands of pets each year. Just a couple teaspoons can kill a pet. Check vehicles for leaks, boil overs, and improperly stored containers of leftover antifreeze. Consider purchasing safe pet antifreeze. Hypothermia, or a body temperature that is below normal, is a condition that occurs when an animal is not able to keep her body temperature from falling below normal. It happens when animals spend too much time in cold temperatures, or when animals with poor health or circulation are exposed to cold. In mild cases, animals will shiver and show signs of depression, lethargy, and weakness. As the condition progresses, an animal's muscles will stiffen, her heart and breathing rates will slow down, and she will
stop responding to stimuli. If you notice these symptoms, you need to get your pet warm and take her to your veterinarian. You can wrap her in blankets, possibly with a hot water bottle or an electric blanket--as always, wrapped in fabric to prevent against burning the skin. In severe cases, your veterinarian can monitor her heart rate and blood pressure and give warm fluids through an IV. Cats will curl up against almost anything to stay warm--including car engines. If there are stray cats common to your home area check car engines or honk your horn before starting the engine. Holiday paraphernalia- Electric cords, tinsel, glass ornaments, candles, spray onsnow (some are non-toxic-read the label), ribbons, plastic or foil wrapping, etc. can be dangerous to your pet. Cover up or hide electric cords, never let your pet chew on them. Do not tie ribbons around pets necks or limbs. Do not hang ornaments on lower branches of Christmas trees for curious animals to knock off and use as toys.
Don’t Be Left Out of The Union-Finley Messenger P e t s S e c t i o n . For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177
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Toy Drive
Can you imagine waking up on Christmas morning and not seeing a gift from Santa? The Chiropractic Health Center is collecting new, unwrapped toys. The toys will be given to the Finleyville Salvation Army to benefit local families in need. All toys must be collected by Wednesday, December 16th.
Chiropractic Health Center 3530 Marion Ave. Finleyville • frontdesk@drwittman.com
Coming In January HEALTH, NUTRITION & FITNESS GUIDE For Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177
724-348-6446
Your source for hometown, community news...
the Union-Finley MESSENGER
Healthy Directions Announces December Events Monongahela Valley Hospital's Healthy Directions health education and resource center at 6116 Brownsville Road Extension, Suite 107 Finleyville will celebrate the following national health events in December:
Safe Toys and Celebrations Month The holiday season is a time for family, fun and festivity, but it can also be a time of danger. Each year many people suffer unnecessarily from eye injuries caused by unsafe toys and celebrations. We would like to spread the message to celebrate responsibly during the holiday season.
Aplastic Anemia & MDS Awareness Every 17 minutes, an American is diagnosed with a bone marrow failure disease. It is likely that the stricken person has never heard of these deadly diseases. Aplastic Anemia & MDS Awareness highlights the need to provide support to patients and families facing these life-threatening diseases and to invest in research that provides better treatment and a cure for bone marrow failure. Anyone interested in these topics are encouraged to stop in for free information or call 724-348-6699. Healthy Directions offers on-site laboratory services for blood and urine analysis are from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. A doctor's prescription is required for all laboratory tests conducted at Healthy Directions. Blood drawn and urine specimens collected at the Finleyville station will be tested at the Laboratory at Monongahela Valley Hospital and results of the testing will be sent to the physician designated by the patient. Healthy Directions/Finleyville is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. In addition to special programs and screenings, Healthy Directions features a health education resource library of books, pamphlets, videos, and other information. A referral service also is available, as well as private health education counseling. Additional information is available by calling 724-348-6699.
Free Stroke Screening Clinic The Elizabeth Township Area E.M.S. is hosting a free Stroke Risk Screening clinic sponsored by Jefferson Hospital, the Elizabeth Health Council, and E.T.A.E.M.S. on December 5, 2009 from 10 am to 2 pm at their facility located in Swiss Alpine Village on Rt. 48. Free tests will be available, as well as educational handouts and giveaways. Ages 18 and older are welcome to attend. Although not necessary, registration is preferred at 412-469-7100. Light refreshments will be provided. Parking is free.
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MONONGAHELA VALLEY HOSPITAL DECEMBER EVENTS Unless otherwise noted, the following programs will be held in the Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center (ECC) at Monongahela Valley Hospital. Candy Sale - Tuesday, December 1 at 9 a.m., ECC. Sponsored by the Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc., the candy sale features treats by Gene and Boots Candies. For more information, call 724-258-1234. Breast Cancer Support Group Wednesday, December 2 at 6 p.m., ECC. This support group is free and open to all breast cancer patients and their families. For more information, call 724-258-1455. Baby Care Class - Monday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Learn baby care basics with up-to-date information at this instructional session for parents-to-be. Topics include: home safety, basic car seat safety, immunizations, breast and bottle feeding, pacifiers, bathing an infant and additional topics. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229). RSDS Support Group - Tuesday, December 8 at 6 p.m., ECC. The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Support Group is free and open to all persons with RSDS or related illnesses. For more information, call 724-9299492.
Managing Your Diabetes - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, December 8, 9, 10 at 6 p.m., ECC. 3-day, 2-hour per day education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. Registration is required at least oneweek prior to the start of classes. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1483. Arthritis Support Group - Wednesday, December 16 at 5 p.m., ECC. Holiday party featuring guest speaker Ajay Mathur, M. D. Free and open to all persons with arthritis or related illnesses and their families. Please call. 724-2581433 to register. Cancer Support Group - Monday, December 21 at 7 p.m., ECC. This support group is free and open to all cancer patients and their families. For additional information, call 724-258-1704. Breast-feeding Class - Monday, December 28 at 6:30 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. This free class is designed for mothers who plan to breastfeed and to help them feel more comfortable and confident while in the hospital after delivery and when returning home. Many props are used in this class including breast pumps. Husbands and grandmothers are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call 724-258-BABY (2229).
MVH Offers Pitt Diabetes Prevention Study Are you worried about developing Heart Disease or Diabetes? Consider enrolling in the REACT (Rethinking Eating and Activity) study sponsored by Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology and the University of Pittsburgh Diabetes Institute. The REACT study is an Internetbased study that can help you lose weight, eat healthy, and exercise and there is no cost for the program. This program is not for individuals who are pregnant, are under 18 years of age, have a diagnosis of diabetes, have undergone gastric bypass surgery, are currently taking a weight loss medication and/or are enrolled in another weight loss program. To find out more about this study or to inquire about upcoming screening dates, contact Karen Pritts, Monongahela Valley Hospital’s Center for Diabetes & Endocrinology, at 724-258-1483.
MVH Receives ACR Accreditation for Both MRI and Nuclear Medicine Services Monongahela Valley Hospital has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in both MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and Nuclear Medicine services as the result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR awards accreditation to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-review evaluation of the practice. Both evaluations were conducted and accreditations awarded separately. Evaluations are conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. They assess the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their findings to the ACR's Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report. Patrick J. Alberts, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at MVH, said the hospital is “very pleased” to achieve both accreditations for its MRI and Nuclear Medicine services. “We are proud of the commitment of our staff in achieving these accreditations and to offer this leading edge health care technology to our area residents. We are one of a select group of hospitals in Pennsylvania to receive these accreditations.” Alberts said that both imaging tools can reduce intervention and discomfort in the diagnosis and treatment of specific diseases, including those in oncology, cardiology, orthopedics and neurology. Individuals seeking more information about MRI or Nuclear Medicine testing at Monongahela Valley Hospital or Mon-Vale HealthPLEX should contact his or her physician, the Medical Imaging Department at MVH at 724-258-1040 or HealthPLEX Imaging at 724-379-1900.
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JEFFERSON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER EVENTS FREE EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY Counseling Center, Caste Village Mall, Suite M123, Whitehall Free seminars from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with Joseph Cvitkovic, PhD, director, Behavioral Health. Call 412-469-7100 to register. • Developing your Creative Potential, Dec. 7 • The Holidays: Decrease Stress and Increase Enjoyment, Dec. 14 LOW COST SERVICES AND CLASSES IN THE COMMUNITY Jefferson Regional Wellness Center, 712 Clairton Blvd., Pleasant Hills Personal Nutrition Coaching: Individualized nutritional counseling with a registered dietitian. Free for Highmark insurance members; $60 for nonHighmark members. Free parking. Call 412-469-7100 to register. HOPE: Highmark Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program – Starts Jan. 7, 6 to 8 p.m. Six-week lifestyle improvement program that focuses on healthy choices to prevent or manage osteoporosis. Free for Highmark insurance members; $100 for non-Highmark members. Free parking. Call 412-4697100 to register. Ornish Advantage: Starts Jan. 5, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Six-week Dean Ornish educational program. Free for Highmark members; $260 for non-Highmark members. Call 412-469-7100 to register. The Walnut Place at Summerset, 4584 Browns Hill Road, Squirrel Hill Free Open House on Jan 4, 6 to 8 p.m. Learn about the Ornish program from professionals; refreshments provided. Call 412-469-7100 to register. Dean Ornish Reversal Program, oneyear lifestyle modification program, begins Jan. 12, 5 to 9 p.m. Cost is insurance-based for Highmark and UPMC Health Plan. Call 1-888-676-4744 to register. FREE EVENTS AT JEFFERSON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Hip and Knee Pain Seminar on causes of and treatments for knee and hip pain, on Dec. 8, 10 to 11 a.m.; Call 412-469-7100 to register.
Sleep/CPAP/BIPAP Open House: Includes free sleep disorder screenings, CPAP/BIPAP mask fittings and equipment check, and tours of the Sleep Disorder Center. Just walk in, Wednesdays, 7 a.m. to noon, or by appointment. Call 412-469-5981 for details. FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS IN THE COMMUNITY Wal-Mart Pharmacy, West Mifflin Community Stroke Risk Screening: Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; last appointment at 1:30 p.m., Elizabeth Township Area EMS, Swiss Alpine Village, Swiss Way, Elizabeth Township. No insurance needed. Includes a stroke risk assessment survey, total cholesterol and blood sugar levels, fingerstick blood sample for HDL,blood pressure check, body fat analysis, carbon monoxide testing for smokers,educational materials and counseling. Light refreshments and giveaways. Sponsored by Jefferson Regional Medical Center with clinical support by Duquesne University. Advanced registration is preferred by calling 412-469-7100. LOW-COST SERVICES AND CLASSES* AT JEFFERSON REGIONAL Diabetes Education: Take Control of Your Diabetes: Four-part series with a certified diabetes educator on Dec. 8 and 15, 6 to 8:30 p.m., and Dec. 10 and 17, 6 to 8 p.m.; also on Jan. 5 and 12, 1 to 3:30 p.m., and Jan 7 and 14, 1 to 3 p.m. Physician referral and registration required. Call 412-469-5234 to register. Senior Services Computer Classes: $45 for two, two-hour sessions. Call 412469-7099 to register. Classes include: • Basic Digital Cameras 1 & 2, Dec. 10 and 17, or Feb. 1 and 8, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. • Buying and Selling on eBay, Jan. 18 and 25, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. *May require a physician order; most insurance plans pay the fee. Co-pays vary.
Detailed listings are available at www.jeffersonregional.com
Emotional Eating The next time you put food in your mouth, ask yourself a question. Are you REALLY hungry? Does your body really need that food? That snack? That second portion at dinner? If you find yourself answering these questions with an honest NO, then determine WHY you are going to eat when your body is not really calling for food. Here are some possible reasons: You are bored. Sometimes we just don’t have anything better to do. When this happens, and you start to walk into the kitchen, take a detour to another part of the house, or go for a small walk. That small bit of activity will change your focus and help suppress your appetite. Food tastes good. Yes, sometimes it does. But sometimes we are eating anything we can find in the kitchen, even if it really isn’t that great tasting. (like fat or sweets). Eat food you really enjoy. Eat less of it and savor it. There is no good reason to keep eating after your belly is full. I’m alone; it’s time to sneak something. Isn’t it funny how, as soon as we are alone in the house, we sneak into the kitchen for a full-blown raid? We must think that if nobody sees us eating, we won’t gain any weight. One favorite time is when everyone else is in bed. We load up our stomach with food and then sleep with a full stomach, a recipe for self-destruction. I am stressed, it’s my nerves. Eating when you’re stressed fuels your stress. Do some big deep breaths, inhaling through your nose to the count of two, exhaling through your mouth to the count of four. Think about what is really happening. Count to 10, distract yourself with another task, or take five minutes to listen to your favorite song or focus in your mind on a place that is very relaxing to you. Control the stressor and refocus off the mindless eating. I am really thirsty. Some people eat when really they are just thirsty. Not recognizing that, thirsty people put something in their
mouth that often is fattening. The next time you have a food craving and don’t feel hungry, drink some water. Awareness is the first step in controlling emotional eating, yet we need to move away from those old behaviors and focus on developing new coping mechanisms and more healthful behaviors. Shift the focus away from food. Think about your comfort foods. What do you want when you’re looking for something to eat? Our comfort foods are relaxing to us. They soothe us and bring contentment. What do we want when we eat? What sensory enjoyment and fulfillment are we looking for? Do we want a certain texture of food, a certain taste, a certain smell? Think of alternatives to favorite foods which are better for you. Instead of ice cream, try smoothies with fruit, yogurt or low fat milk. It will feel cold in your mouth, giving you the sensation of ice cream without all the fat and calories. Enjoy your food and the relaxation of good company, good taste or the quiet and solitude after a busy day. Slow down the process of eating. We can consume a large quantity of food while waiting to feel full. It takes about 20 minutes for the chemicals from our brain to register satiety and turn off our appetite. Our culture tells us we need quantity in our lives and quickly. Remember that less is more and try to adjust the pace and quantity of your food. You need to track hunger and fullness, moods and feelings. Identify the feeling that triggers your emotional eating. Recognize that feelings are causing the eating behavior. Be aware of the desires that keep you looking for peace and security in food. Nurture yourself in alternative ways, turn to fitness and stress management while confronting your emotional eating. By doing these things, you will regain your self-esteem and self-confidence and will feel good about yourself. Feel empowered – not deprived – as you enjoy the new you.
A note to my loyal readers: This is my last “Healthy Living” article for the Union-Finley Messenger. It has been my honor to have provided some timely information for all of you. Thank you for your support of the paper and all the news it provides about our communities. It is the people of our community which make it the special place that it is.
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Kids & Family An Interview With Santa Claus! By Paul Chasko
I
ran into Santa Claus a few days ago at one of his many local appearances. He was taking a break and was warming his hands around a large cup of hot chocolate. I asked if he had a few minutes to talk a bit and he graciously agreed – I knew how busy he was and I was grateful he took the time. Here’s what we talked about: PC: Santa, I know you’ve been scheduled to meet with the kids at several breakfasts and luncheons – some of them at the same time at the same day. Do you have helpers that attend some of these events for you or is some kind of magic involved? S: No, it’s always me. Some might call it magic but the real truth is that I can appear to be in several places at once using the curvature of space. You know, the space/time continuum – we’ve been using it for hundreds of years. You think I’m sitting here talking with you but actually I’m scooting back and forth, here and there nearly as fast as the speed of light so to you folks I appear
to be in several places at once. I’m an ace at multitasking. PC:
PC: What do you think about the job the President has done to stimulate the economy?
Uh-Huh?
S: I know it sounds complicated – go to the library. There are a couple of good books floating around – one by A. Einstein – all he ever wanted for Christmas was books. PC: What about the economy – I know it’s still not as good as it should be - is the economy going to affect the gifts kids will be getting this year? S: No, I don’t think we’ll be seeing much of a change from last year. The cost of materials has come down and labor costs are about the same - the Elves work for practically nothing you know. What I’m really concerned about is unionization. If an Elves Union gets in, labor costs are bound to go up and any increased benefits will cost us a fortune and heaven forbid we ever have a labor strike. The reindeer still work for hay and oats, thank goodness.
S: Well from my point of view, what world leaders do doesn’t matter too much. I’m not affected much by their shenanigans. I let them alone and just do my job. I do think Obama’s going to need all the help he can get to get out of the hole he’s dug. Say some prayers for him and his people so they don’t mess up too badly.
lem though – they’ve never really gotten used to that kind of travel. They sometimes get dizzy and space sick. That’s why you might sometimes find something other than snow on the roof. PC: Now that the internet is so popular, do you find it any use in preparing for Christmas?
S: I really like the Steelers defense this year. I think it can take them all the way to the Super Bowl – I won’t predict a win though.
S: Absolutely - the kids can get me their mail a lot easier now that we have email. We have a huge computer tied in to all the major servers and we haven’t even begun to fill the hard drive with letters from the kids. In a few years we’ll have the computer tied to machines on the factory floor. After the computer checks the kid’s behavior it’ll send the order right down to the Elves. I won’t even have to keep a list anymore.
PC: Santa, forgive me for saying so, but you’re kind of big and with that sack of toys how do you manage to get down the chimney?
PC: There are a great many folks who think we’ve become too materialistic and we’ve lost the true meaning of Christmas. What’s your comment on that?
S: Now I hate to blow apart the Chimney myth but I have to tell the truth. The same process that gets me into several places at once is used to float me through solid matter. I sort of leak through the walls and poof! I’m next to the Christmas tree.
S: That’s true. I love my job and making folks happy at Christmas time but let’s never forget whose birthday we’re celebrating on Christmas Day. If we lose sight of that then the rest of this means nothing. Be sure you get to Church on Christmas Day. I got to get back to work now sonny – Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
PC: What are your thoughts about the Super Bowl?
PC: Wow! What about the sleigh and reindeer – it sounds like you don’t even need them? S: Well, the sleigh and reindeer are such a nice touch that I take them right along with me. Prancer and Vixen are a prob-
PC: Santa, before you run off, what am I getting for Christmas? S: (Smiling) you’ll have to wait and see like everyone else!
From all of us at the Union-Finley Messenger, we’d like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, and Happy Holiday season. And, best wishes for a wonderful new year!
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 51 KIDS––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– & FAMILY www.unionfinley.com
News From The Mon Valley YMCA Saturday Night Live Don't Forget!!! The second Saturday of every month throughout the Fall, Winter and Spring The Mon Valley YMCA hosts "Saturday Night Live" from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. Youth, teens, adults and the whole family can come to socialize, eat and play! Gym activites, Youth & Teen Room games, swimming time in the pool and of course don’t forget our awesome kitchen staff serving up wonderful snacks for the evening. Free for YMCA members and only $4 for non-members. Bring your friends and family or stop in to make new friends. Church groups, youth groups and boy and girl scout troops welcome! Contact our Youth & Teen director Adorée DeLuca-Johnson for more information at 724-483-8077 ext 206.
Enjoing an activity at the Mon Valley YMCA “Saturday Night Live” are (left) Marley Evans and (right) Grace Scales, both of Coal Center.
Finleyville Girl Scout Troop 54056 Bridges to Brownies! The new Brownies of Finleyville Girl Scout Troop 54056 – (Front Row: L to R) Abby Powell, Anjolina Hrycko, Danika Evans, Kylie Smith, Katey Powell, Jenna Sargent and Julia Shelton. (Back Row: L to R) Deb Evans, Savanna Hindman, Emma Eslep, Leah Sargent, Jessica Tomosky, Delaney Fox, Paige Mihalik, Quinn Downs, Gina Fox. Missing from Photo: Holly Martin.
Youth & Government Members of Finleyville Girl Scout Troop 54056 recently bridged (or moved up to) Brownies in November of 2009. The Bridging Ceremony included "baking" our Daisies. The Daisies took turns entering a cardboard oven where they were "baked" (given their Brownie Uniform Sash and pins) and exited the oven as Brownies. Our families watched as we also sang songs, read the Brownie Story, and had lots of fun. Congratulations, girls!
Newly Elected Members – (Back L-R) Ryan Kaczmarek of Carroll Township, Sarah Martik of California, Jonathan Hill of Elizabeth. (Front L-R) - Taylor Jones of Monessen and Marissa Miller of Ringgold.
The Mon Valley YMCA and California High School Youth & Government Clubs recently retuned home from The Western Pennsylvania Elections Convention at the University of Pittsburgh. Students across the western side of PA meet, campaign and elect their student leaders for the model conference at the Pennsylvania State Capital building in April. Congratulations to the following elected members: Nancy Chen of CaliforniaSupreme Court Justice, Jim Braum of Monongahela-Senate Clerk, Tiffany Kent of California-House Clerk, Nick Wohar of California-Sgt at Arms, Miranda McLaughlin of Belle Vernon-State Reporter, Sarah Martik of California and Tyler Verin of Belle VernonSenate Committee Chairs, Steve Weinstein of Donora and Johnathan Hill of ElizabethHouse Committee Chairs. Also serving as State representatives will be Cheyenne Spanovich of Carroll Township-Governor's Administration, Desirea Cici of Charleroi and Mallory Tokar of Carroll Township-lobbyist team, and Ryan Kaczmarek of Carroll Township as Youth General Assembly Speaker of the House.
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Fancy Nancy Tea Party Draws a Gaggle of Girls By Krista Ramsey Jefferson Hills Library held a “Fancy Nancy Tea Party” in honor of the famous “Fancy Nancy” series of books by Jane O’Connor on Saturday, November 7 from 1-2:30 pm. Girls of all ages gathered in their fanciest dresses and accessories and best hats to partake in the event. The library’s Teen Advisory Board, comprised of local teens who volunteer their time, helped staff to pull off an extraordinary event. The girls enjoyed a craft, story time, and tea and even took home a goodie bag. This is the first year for the event, and the library plans to hold it annually.
Library Director Jan Reschenthaler serves tea from a china pot to her friends, Deanna Bennett and Lydia Shaw of Jefferson Hills, who anxiously await a hot cup. They also enjoyed pink and white cupcakes, marshmallow lollies, and punch amid tables of tissue paper flowers.
Joyce Schmidt, President of the Jefferson Hills Historical Society, spoke to the girls about the history of tea parties, including how to hold a tea cup. They all wore fancy hats or dresses, and Schmidt mentioned how good it makes you feel to be dressed up and gab with your friends!
MONTHLY
Kid’s Coloring Contest!
Although the weather was unseasonably warm for November, a gaggle of girls showed up wearing tiaras, boas, jewelry, and hats to the Fancy Nancy Tea Party at Jefferson Hills Library for an afternoon of fun. One young man, Domenic Mancini (3) of Jefferson Hills had himself a good old time with the ladies! Wearing his Dr. Seuss hat, he joined right in the fun with his big sister and cousin.
Mallory and Madison Sorber of Virginia joined their cousin Megan O’Dea of Jefferson Hills at the library. What a great story they’ll have to tell when they go home!
The girls also enjoyed a cross-stitch craft, where they used a hoop and thread to make a design. All pieces will be sewn together to make a quilt.
Jane Morgan, Children’s Librarian, read Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy and Fancy Nancy and the Bonjour Butterfly to an enchanted group of listeners.
Enter Our Coloring Contest On-line! (Win Four(4) FREE Tickets to the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium) Thank you to everyone who has participated in our Monthly Kids Coloring Contest during 2009. Starting with this December 2009 issue, our Monthly Kids Coloring Contest will now only be available on-line. To enter the monthly contest, please visit our website at www.unionfinley.com, and click on the “Contests & Promotions” tab to print out a coloring sheet. (Kids ages 10 and under are eligible to win every month.) To celebrate the holiday season, we drew the names of four(4) lucky winners from all November entries received.
Congratulations to the following winners: MYKEL NOLAN (age 5) of Monongahela • JAMIE L. BALL (age 10) of South Park QUINCY JAMES BURGESS (age 9) of New Eagle • NATHAN PETERS (age 5) of Monongahela
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Brightwood Christian Church Youth Group Performs Contemporary Play
Taking a Leap of Faith: Local Non-Profit Seeks to Lend a Hand By Christen M. Stroh
Xander Browell, Cullen Browell, Ryleigh and Shealyn Steadman, Christy Basso, Jackie and Nicole Wolowski, Loren Jonelle and Lydia Browell.
The youth group of Brightwood Christian Church performed the play, "Son Seekers, Nation Vacation," a Christ-centered contemporary play, during worship on Youth Sunday, October 25. Leslie and Rob Browell, along with Rick Campbell of the congregation directed the marvelous performance. The play was well received and some adults suggested that it was on par with local playhouse performances. After the rousing applause, Tim and Maria Cassidy provided cake and punch for everyone.
Crossroads Ministries Reaches Out to Orphanage Where Finleyville Resident was Raised It has been exciting for Crossroads Ministries to assist the Good Shepherd Fold orphanage located on Guimaras Island in the Philippines that played such a large role in the life of Finleyville's own Linda Finney. Linda was adopted by the orphanage as an infant and remained there until she was 17 years of age after completing high school and 2 years of Liberal Arts College. She then went to Metro Manila where she graduated from college and began teaching kindergarten. Linda has lived in Finleyville for 10 years with her husband Al and daughter Leslie. The family recently revisited the orphanage this summer, and the great needs of the children there are very fresh in many minds. This summer, Crossroads Ministries Vacation Bible School raised nearly $2,000 for the orphanage. $200 of that money was used by the Good Shepherd Fold orphanage to purchase material to make blankets and pillowcases for the 27 boys and girls housed there. Counselors explained it was less expensive to purchase the material and make their own items than to try to purchase readymade bedding in the Philippines. Also in October, Crossroads Ministries MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) gathered needed items and prepared 2 huge care package for the same orphans. It was filled with items requested by the orphanage such as backpacks, umbrellas, school supplies, hygiene items and t-shirts. It has shipped to arrive in time for Christmas. Thanks to everyone who has helped with these projects. Crossroads Ministries is located on Rt. 88, one mile south of Trax Farms overlooking Mineral Beach. Call 724-348-1620 for more information on any programs or to get Involved, or visit www.crossroadsministries.com.
As the holidays approach and many focus on what types of gifts they’ll be giving and receiving, the folks who are affiliated with Faith in Action are thinking about giving in a different context. Faith in Action is a volunteer-based support service for people who need non-medical and in-home services; it caters primarily to older adults, but also helps people with disabilities in Washington County. The organization depends upon volunteers who give their time and expertise to those who unable to effectively live on their own. The non-profit provides its participants with everything from supportive visiting to those who are lonely to transportation to and from stores and appointments. Additionally, Faith in Action offers a telephone reassurance service, where volunteers call to check on patients, and they have a caregiver relief service to offer caregivers of patients a break every now and again. For those who have mobility issues, volunteers assist with shopping and can do minor home repairs as well as cooking and housekeeping, and for participants who are visually impaired, volunteers help them pay bills and handle other correspondence by reading their mail and helping them write checks. Volunteers are recruited from the surrounding communities as well as from churches. Currently, there are 250 listed volunteers, though not all are active all the time. “It’s very much an organization based on whatever you can do or whatever time you can give,” said Candace Bernier, Program Director Faith in Action of Washington County. “The volunteers we get
range in age from teenagers through someone we have who is in her 90s.” There is a training session that lasts for two hours consisting of an overview of the basic policies and procedures for Faith in Action, and then volunteers are encouraged to go out and help in whatever capacity they feel comfortable. While the volunteers are certainly a large part of Faith in Action, the participants play just as big a role. There are currently 285 care receivers, and again, not all of them are active on a regular basis. “The participants we have always tell us about the difference we make in their lives,” emphasized Bernier, who added that participants are asked to evaluate the quality of their care after receiving a service. “They write things like ‘Thank God you are here’ and ‘I’m not sure what I would have done without your services’ all the time,” she noted. Faith in Action is in its 10th year of service in the Mon Valley area, with their office located in Charleroi. The Mon Valley location is just one of 650 Faith in Action locations that exist on a national scale. The nonprofit organization depends upon the volunteers to provide their own vehicles and tools and relies upon donations to continue their services. “We are making a significant contribution to the community,” said Bernier, who notes that, in the past year, Faith in Action logged 7,787 volunteer hours. “This is truly a blessing to all who are involved, especially the volunteers – they get more out of it than they give.” Those interested in making a donation or becoming a volunteer can contact Candace Bernier at 724-223-5115 or visit the office at 209 Fifth Street in Charleroi.
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Area Church News Upcoming Events at South Hill Assembly Help provide Christmas gifts to 100 children of prisoners through Project Angel Tree by sending monetary donations to South Hills Assembly, 2725 Bethel Church Rd., Bethel Park, PA 15102 (mark “Angel Tree” on check and envelope). For more information, call 412-835-8900 ext. 113 or visit www.southhillsassembly.org. Compassion Connection Inc.’s Toy Treasures is collecting toys for needy families at local collection sites through December 15. Sites in Bethel Park include South Hills Assembly at 2725 Bethel Church Rd., Hillcrest Christian Academy at 4040 Bethel Church Rd., as well as Parkside Plus, Outback Steakhouse, Chick-fil-A, Dollar General and Geno Levi Salon. Pleasant Hills locations include Jefferson Radiation and Champion Fitness. Toys may also be dropped off at all four Family Christian Stores. For more information, call 412-835-8900 ext.104. AdventureMen of South Hills Assembly organizes activities for guys to enjoy Christian fellowship along with physical challenge. Men are currently invited to sign up for ski trips; call Scott at 412-417-6828. Check out the website at www.adventuremen.org. Compassion Connection Inc. offers Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered addiction recovery meetings to help you find freedom from your hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Meetings in December are on Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm in room C1 A; there are no meetings on December 24 and 31. Meetings are held at South Hills Assembly. Call 412-835-8900 ext. 120 for more details. The Jeremiah 29:11 Employment Transition Group is a support group for those who are searching for jobs. Meet for encouragement, networking and prayer at South Hills Assembly from 7-8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 15 in the multi-purpose room. Sponsored by Compassion Connection Inc. Call 412-835-8900 for details. Join us at South Hills Assembly at 7 p.m. Thursday, December 24 for a meaningful Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. Call 412-835-8900 for details. Support Hillcrest Christian Academy by taking your family to Chuck E. Cheese in Bridgeville between 3-9 p.m. on Thursday, December 31. Mention HCA when ordering and a portion of your purchase benefits the school. This will be a fun way to spend New Year’s Eve as a family. Call 412-854-4040 for details. South Hills Assembly’s young adults will
celebrate the New Year at the Farmhouse Coffee House in McMurray from 9 p.m. till 1 a.m. Thursday, December 31. Join them for food, fun, games, music and coffee. Please bring a food dish to share. Call Pastor Travis at 412-835-8900 ext. 107 for details.
Bake Sale at Jefferson United Methodist Jefferson United Methodist Church, 310 Gill Hall Rd., will hold a bake sale on Saturday, December 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Cookie trays, cakes, pies, cupcakes, brownies, candy, apricot, nut & Poppyseed rolls. Pre-order Christmas rolls – Poppyseed $8.50, nut or apricot $8.00 each. Pre-order by phoning 412-653-3222 option 3. Pick-up for pre-orders: Friday, December 11 from 6-7 p.m. and Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas rolls will also be available at the bake sale should you not pre-order.
Eric Genuis to Perform at St. Thomas A’ Becket Church St. Thomas A’ Becket Church presents Eric Genuis in concert. Also featuring vocalist, violinist and cello. Eric is a composer, virtuoso, pianist and captivating performer. He is an internationally recognized classical musician, composer and performer. It is Eric’s prayerful goal to “provide Christians with carefully and intelligently crafted music that is thought provoking, contemplative and has a timeless appeal to the emotions for the glory of God”. He will perform at St. Thomas A’ Becket Church in Jefferson Hills on Sunday, December 6 at 4:00 p.m. The public is invited. There is no charge, but a free-will offering will be accepted.
December Events at the First Presbyterian Church of Finleyville A Christmas Event for children will be held on Saturday, December 12th from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Lunch, craft and a movie. Kids, invite your friends and come join in on the fun! VeggieTales “St. Nicholas - A Story of Joyful Giving”. Discover the power of a simple gift! A Candlelight Christmas Eve Service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Finleyville on December 24 at 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit the church website at www.firstpresbyterian.us or call 724-348-5689. Merry Christmas!
Upcoming Events at CrossRoads Community Church
Celebrate Recovery at Monongahela Church of the Nazarene
Open Mic Night Calling all vocalists, musicians, comedians, dancers, and artists of all types! On Thursday, December 3 at 7:37 PM, CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills will be hosting their “CrossRoads Café Open Mic Night.” We provide the coffee you bring the talent!
Missing a loved one this holiday season? Visit “Celebrate Recovery” at 7 p.m. each Friday night at Monongahela Church of the Nazarene on the corner of 10th and Chess St for support and encouragement. “Celebrate Recovery” is free and has support groups for those grieving as well as those suffering with addictions and codependency. Call 724-258-4401 for more information.
Christmas Tree Decorating Party On Friday, December 4 at 7:37 PM there will be a Christmas Tree Decorating Party and R.U.S.H. Game Night at CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills. Come kickoff the Christmas season with a bang. Bring your favorite Christmas dessert and a family ornament to hang on the tree. Bring the entire family including uncontrollable youth group madness Steeler Parties! On December 6, 20, and 27 at 1:00 PM there will be Sunday Steelers Home Game Parties at CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills! Bring a munchable to share as we cheer the Steelers on their Stairway to Seven! Women’s Ministry Potluck Dinner December 13th at 6:37 PM there will be a Women’s Ministry Potluck Dinner at CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills. Hosting the event is guest speaker and comedian Jimmie Ruth Caughron; Childcare will be available so be sure to invite a friend to this time of sharing, music, and fun Young Adult Game Night On Friday, December 17th at 7:37 PM; the young adult group "ONE" will be holding their Young Adult Game Night at CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills. Get your game on and hang out with other young adults Christmas Eve Candlelight Service A Christmas Eve Candlelight Service will be held on December 24th at 6:37 at CrossRoads Community Church in Jefferson Hills. Santa Clause is Coming to Town! Join us for our annual candlelight Christmas Eve Service.
“Mom 2 Mom Sale” at Windover Hills United Methodist Church Attention moms! Looking for a way to clean out some old kids clothes and/or toys? Been meaning to have a yard sale and just haven't found the time? Well, we can help! MOPS (Mothers Of Pre Schoolers) of Windover Hills is holding a “Mom 2 Mom sale” on Saturday, February 27. The sale will be held at Windover Hills United Methodist Church in South Park. We are currently looking for moms who have children items to sell - clothes, toys, etc. Moms can rent tables to set up and sell their items to the public. MOPS of Windover Hills will do plenty of advertising for this event. For more information, questions, or to register, contact Charity Winberg at 724-348-6591 or cwinberg24@verizon.net.
Upcoming Events at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church St Peter’s Episcopal Church in Brentwood is offering babysitting services on December 18, with extended hours from 6 - 11:30 p.m. While there, children will be able to participate in age-appropriate activities, games, and crafts. Parents should pack a small snack for their child, and drinks are provided. The cost is $3 per hour for first child in family, $2 for second child and $1 for each additional child. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Cigar & Scripture Night is held on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. Woman’s Bible Study meeting at the Church on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. The church is located at 4048 Brownsville Road,. Please call the church at 412-8845225 or visit our website at www.stpetersbrentwood.org for more information.
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Sounds of Christmas at Riverview Baptist Church
On Sunday, December 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Riverview Baptist Church, 405 Main St., New Eagle, PA, Shepherd’s Voice will present “Sounds of Christmas”, a program of Christmas music. It is sure to be a relaxing evening filled of familiar carols, contemporary Christmas songs and various other songs centered on the glorious birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. What a great way to elevate your heart and your disposition this Advent season! Following the program, you’re invited to retreat to the fellowship hall where we’ll all enjoy light refreshments, of Christmas cookies and punch. Mark December 6th on your calendar now so you won’t miss this special evening of fellowship, celebration and Christmas joy!
Gloria! A Christmas Experience at South Hills Assembly The Fine Arts Department of South Hills Assembly will present their Christmas musical, “Gloria! A Christmas Experience” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, December 11 and 12, and at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 13. Admission is free. South Hills Assembly is located at 2725 Bethel Church Road in Bethel Park. For more information, call 412-835-8900 or visit www.southhillsassembly.org.
Upcoming December Events at Beth Israel Center Synagogue December Services • Friday Shabbat Services - December 4 at 7:30 p.m. • Friday Shabbat Services - December 11 at 7:30 p.m. • Friday Shabbat Services - December 18 at 7:30 p.m. Service conducted by Rabbi Amy Greenbaum followed by a group discussion of the book Sarah's Key by Tatiano de Rosnay • Friday Shabbat Services- December 25 at 7:30 p.m. Annual Chanukah Luncheon A Sisterhood function underwritten by the Weiss families, owners of Weiss Meats. Sunday, December 13 at 12:00 noon. The menu consists of corned beef sandwiches, potato pancakes, potato salad, applesauce, beverages and dessert. RSVP by December 6. Leave a message at BIC 412-655-2144. Include your name and phone number. Adults $15, children under 12 years old $7. Special Chanukah performance by the children in the Hebrew School and Sunday School under the direction of Dr. Perry Haalman. Silent Auction to be held as part of the Chanukah luncheon and celebration. Men’s Club The group will meet on Sunday morning, December 6 at 9:30 a.m. Join this friendly organization as they discuss current issues and have a light breakfast. Adult Education Lecture Series In memory of Dr. Hyman Schultz. Sunday evening, December 20 at 7:30 p.m. Guest speaker: Rabbi Mendel Rosenblum. Topic: Jewish Mysticism. Refreshments and social time after the lecture Beth Israel Center Synagogue is located at 118 Gill Hall Road. For more information, visit www.bethisraelpgh.org or call 412655-2144.
Monthly Pizza Puzzler! Win a FREE Large “Grande” 1-topping Pizza from Vocelli Pizza*! Two (2) lucky winners every month! Just fill in the correct answers to the questions below, and write your name, address and telephone number on the entry form. Then mail in your entry form to the Union-Finley Messenger. Each month we will draw two (2) local winners from all correct entries. Winners will receive a gift certificate good for one (1) FREE Large “GRANDE” pizza from Vocelli Pizza. Remember to look for a new Monthly Pizza Puzzler every month, and send in your entry form! (*Good only at Finleyville location. One entry per household per month. Employees of the Union-Finley Messenger; Haniford Enterprises LLC, or Vocelli Pizza are not eligible.)
• Official Entry Form •
(Deadline for entries is December 10)
Find the answers to these three (3) questions somewhere within this edition of the Union-Finley Messenger. A Film Production Crew set up camp at what local school? What new business recently opened in Bethel Park? Who received the Tradition of Caring Award at Canonsburg General Hospital? Name: Address: Phone Number: Entry forms should be submitted to: Union-Finley Messenger, Attention: “Monthly Pizza Puzzler,” P.O. Box 103, Finleyville, PA 15332
Congratulations to our November Pizza Puzzler winners! DIANNE GILBERT- Upper St. Clair • SANDY CAMPBELL - Venetia
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Seniors
• •••••••••
•••••••••••
Senior News from the Venetia Community Center
Arthritis – Breakthrough Relief For The Rest of Your Life
The following information is for the Venetia Community Center located at 800 Venetia Road, Venetia, PA. We are sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging.
(NewsUSA) - Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which joint cartilage wears away over time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately onethird of American adults suffer from chronic arthritis. The pain of osteoarthritis affects not only Americans' joints, but also their wallets. Thirty-three percent of American workers report that arthritis interferes with their ability to perform their job. "The pain comes and goes, prevents sleep, makes walking difficult, causes you to drop or spill things, and renders you unable to sign your name or write," writes Dr. Larry Lytle in his book, "Universal Healer: Osteoarthritis." "In short, it is the most common form of disability." Osteoarthritis cannot currently be cured, but effective non-drug treatments can safely improve the quality of life of millions of people. For example, the FDA has recently approved a low-level laser treatment, the QLaser, for treating osteoarthritis in the hands. The QLaser System helps the body reduce pain by stimulating the release of endorphins (the body's natural painkillers), while also helping the body reduce inflammation, increase circulation, help heal damaged cell membranes and boost cellular energy levels, resulting in less pain and faster healing. Keeping a device like the QLaser at home can help people address their osteoarthritis without turning to costly medical treatments or dangerous drugs. For more information about the QLaser and to receive a free copy of Dr. Lytle's book, "Universal Healer: Osteoarthritis," go to www.qlasersolutions.com and enter the code 5390 in the dropdown menu. To receive a free information packet by mail, call 1-800-597-9231 and use the code 5390 when requested.
Here we are approaching the Christmas Holidays, let us not forget Thanksgiving and be thankful for all our blessings big or small. Some good news from Venetia, on November 5th Jean Mondale celebrated her 98th birthday. Congratulations Jean. We will be ending the year with our regular luncheon which is prepared by the Canonsburg Senior Center and as always very well done, and is delivered by our faithful drivers from our center. Lets also not forget our servers. Many thanks to all because of you we can all celebrate a very joyful and happy day. The program will be entertainment by Jack Giacomel and is being sponsored by the Caring Mission. We are all looking forward to a great program. Be sure you all come and enjoy this great program. A very enjoyable day was spent November 12th at our luncheon with the Girl Scouts entertaining us with games. A good time was had by all. By doing this service the girls earn a badge for their troop. Birthdays for December are as follows: Irene Aldrich, Bill Higbee, Lois McCloskey and Dorothy Townsend. Happy Birthday and many more Since we did not make the November issue, we would like to wish belated birthday wishes to Emma Houston, Janet Janico, Mary Kotula, Jean Mondle, Lois O’Bringer, Mary Paver, Loreta Stancampano, Mary Taylor and Loraine Terminato.
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Help Available for Choosing Medicare Plan husband and I have a Medicare Advantage HMO health Q. My insurance plan with drug coverage.When is open enrollment this year? Annual Election Period (AEP) is from November 15 through December A. The 31. During this time you have the opportunity to change your Medicare health insurance. This opportunity presents a time to compare plans, understand options and chose a plan that best meets your needs. Your coverage will begin on January 1, 2010 as long as your change is received before December 31, 2009. If you choose to enroll in a new Medicare Advantage HMO then you’ll be automatically disenrolled from your current HMO. Details to consider while comparing plans include: • Monthly Premiums • Deductibles & Co-Pays • How frequently do you utilize health care services? Consider the health services that you utilize such as visits to your PCP, a specialist and laboratory services. You’ll have a better understanding of your annual out-of-pocket costs for the year if taking these services into account. • Networks You’ll have to determine if your current primary care physician, specialists and hospital participate in a new HMO. • Since your current health insurance plan includes Part D prescription drug coverage you will need to see if your medicines are on the formularies of the other plans. • Part D Prescription Drug Coverage Before enrolling in a new plan do not assume that your current medications will be covered. You will have to check with the prescription formularies, and consider the co-pays, restrictions placed on any of your medications, and whether the other plans offer extended drug coverage through the Part D coverage gap or “donut hole”. Where to turn for help? You can receive valuable assistance by contacting your local APPRISE State Health Insurance Program. The APPRISE Program provides free and confidential health insurance counseling for Medicare eligible individuals. Trained counselors provide unbiased, objective information on health plans available in your area. Please contact the APPRISE agency in your area to make a free and confidential appointment to discuss and compare plans. Local County APPRISE Programs Southern Allegheny County: 412-469–7099 (Located at Jefferson Regional Medical Center Senior Services, 565 Coal Valley Road, Jefferson Hills) Fayette / Greene / Washington Counties: 724-489-8080 ext. 4438 or 1-888-300-2704 ext. 4438 (Located at Southwestern Area Agency on Aging in Charleroi) Westmoreland County: 724-925-4213 or 1-800-262-2103 ext. 4213 (Located at Westmoreland County Community College in Youngwood) Jefferson Regional Senior Services is a free telephone referral service of Jefferson Regional Medical Center that assists area seniors, their families and caregivers with locating available services and programs to meet their needs. Senior Services also offers educational and wellness programs for the community for a nominal fee. Questions? E-mail to seniorservices@jeffersonregional.com call 412-469-7099, or write to Jefferson Regional Senior Services, PO Box 18119, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
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School News Madonna Catholic Regional School News Madonna Catholic Regional School Announces First Quarter Honor Roll Congratulations to all of the following students who have earned the Honor Roll recognition for the first quarter at Madonna Catholic Regional School. GRADE 8 HIGHEST HONORS Tori Albert, Anna Quattrone HIGH HONORS Julia Alvarez, Noah Brown, Ryan Konek, Rachel Ritzer, Alyssa Smydo HONORS Kaitlyn Caramela, Shayn Dooley, Nicole Miller GRADE 7 HIGH HONORS Christian Bostich, Caitlin Caldwell, Emily Grandinette, Rose Hawk, Weston Homa, Anthony Koval HONORS Christina Greaves, Michelle Harris, Nicholas Lentz, Hannah Macko, Alexandra Massari, Anne Perunko, Bethany Pina, Kayle Profrock, Zachary Quattrone, Delaynie Stevenson
Elizabeth Forward School District News Veterans Honored at Elizabeth Forward Middle School By Alice Harris Elizabeth Forward Middle School celebrated Veteran's Day in a very special way by inviting the Community to participate. The EF Middle School Chorus and Band performed a number of patriotic songs including 'God Bless The USA' in which everyone was invited to participate in the singing. Middle School Boy Scouts demonstrated how to fold the flag. Jennifer Meliton, Greenock and Mt. Vernon Elementary School Principal, The Boy Scouts demonstrated how to sang 'You'll Be There', and students fold the American flag. waved flags and held posters honoring Veterans. Guest speaker Lieutenant Commander (US Retired Navy) Rick Elster of Mt. Vernon, delivered a heartfelt speech on the ''heroes of his lifetime”, how they influenced him to serve, and his gratitude to be born American. A POW/MIA 'Table for One' was set and narrated by members of Blaine Hill VFW and American Legion.
GRADE 6 HIGHEST HONORS Michael Hudak, Katie Sendek HIGH HONORS Maria Loftis, Kaylee Spitak HONORS Taylor Smydo Honoring the POW/MIA 'Table for One'.
Jennifer Meliton sang 'There You'll Be'.
Veterans of the Blaine Hill VFW and American Legion.
Guest speaker and Vietnam Veteran Lieutenant Commander Rick Elster.
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Peters Township School District News McMurray Rotary Donates Dictionaries to Peters Township 3rd Grade Students
Bower Hill Read-a-Thon Raises Nearly $22,000 THE WINNING STUDENTS WERE: TOP READERS: Alexandra Wilson, K-AM Allyson Sedlak, K-AM Bridgette Schock, 1st grade Alexis Filoon, 1st grade Jonas Woelk, 2nd grade Joey Opferman, 2nd grade Spencer Lynch, 3rd grade Julianna Chen, 3rd grade
Second grader Jonas Woelk shakes hands with Assistant Principal Michael Henaghan during the morning awards ceremony at Bower Hill. (Counselor Fred Traumuller is seated behind the table).
Students at Bower Hill Elementary read for a total of 250,126 minutes in their recent Read-a-Thon, raising nearly $22,000 for the Bower Hill PTA and programs at the school. Overall, nearly half of the Bower Hill students read for at least 400 minutes in the 12 day reading event. The two top readers and the two top money collectors at each grade level were recognized on a special edition of the school’s morning announcements on Thursday, October 29.
TOP FUNDRAISERS: Nicholas Collie, K-AM Maddox Bower, K-AM Owen Erker, 1st grade Ryan Liebscher, 1st grade Matthew Pensenstadler, 2nd grade Zoe Phares, 2nd grade Marco Rozzi, 3rd grade Payton Jenkins, 3rd grade
The classrooms that read for the most minutes and those who collected the most money received a basket of legos to use during indoor recess this year. All students who participated in the Read-aThon also received a medal for their participation. The annual event was organized by the Bower Hill PTA and event chairpersons Maura Kelly and Ellen Garcia.
PTHS Musicians Earn PMEA Honors Three musicians from Peters Township High School have been selected by audition to take part in PMEA Honors Jazz Band West. Representing the District will be Ben Pritz (alto saxophone), Josh Orr (trumpet), and Laura Bertoni (baritone sax). H.B. Hull was chosen as an alternate for the event. The Honors Jazz Band will perform in concert on January 9, 2010, at North Allegheny High School. Six musicians from PTHS were also selected by audition to take part in PMEA Honors Band. Representing the District will be Joe Grippi (clarinet), Eric Spangenberg (bass clarinet), Laura Bertoni (alto sax), John MacKay (Euphonium), Michael Counihan (trombone), and Jennifer Mikec (clarinet). The Honors Band performed in concert on November 29 at Carnegie Music Hall.
PTHS Haunted Hallways Provides Holiday Meals for City Mission Peters Township High School’s Students Against Destructive Decisions and National Honor Society held their annual Haunted Hallways event on October 29th to raise money for the Washington City Missions. This year’s Halloween event for students in grades K-3 raised more than $1,100 for the Mission. The generous donations were enough to provide the Thanksgiving meal at the Mission with enough left over to provide most the Christmas dinner as well.
The dictionaries were presented to the schools by Rotarian Dave Wylie (right). Accepting the dictionaries on behalf of Bower Hill Elementary and Pleasant Valley Elementary were (l to r) Bower Hill Principal Kelly Gustafson and teachers Jolene Hanig-Jones from Bower Hill and Angela Johnson from Pleasant Valley.
The McMurray Rotary has donated more than 330 dictionaries to the Peters Township School District to be given to every third grade student in Bower Hill and Pleasant Valley Elementary Schools. The third consecutive year for the donation, the books were donated in honor of Dr. Howard Jack, a former Superintendent in the District.
PTHS Earns Recognition for Science Achievement The Science Department from Peters Township High School has been awarded a certificate of achievement from the Keystone Teachers Association of Pennsylvania for our students’ performance on the PSSA Science exam. Last year's Peters Township High School 11th graders placed 24th in the state, putting our school in the top 5% of 501 school districts statewide.
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SCHOOL NEWS
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Renovation Plan For Ringgold Elementary School South Delivered to Board Members By Paul Chasko
At the November 18, 2009 meeting of the Ringgold School Board, President Denise Kuhn announced that the board had just concluded a closed executive session in which personnel evaluation, possible hiring and purchase of real property were discussed. A preliminary project plan for the renovation and expansion of the Ringgold Elementary School South (RESS) building was delivered to the board by Mr. Greer Hayden of the HHSDR Architecture firm. Mr. Hayden summarized the contents of the plan but didn’t discuss all details. He indicated the plan contained schematic representations of the appearance and layout of RESS, A maximum cost estimate, possible impact on millage and target dates. He stressed that this was not the final document describing the project but is the project description based on what he believes to be the goal of the Board for the school at this time and that it’s likely to change before a required public hearing is held on December 4. Comments from board members suggest that the project cost estimate has increased
from an earlier projection. Mr. Greer also suggested that asbestos removal from the building be accomplished as early as possible so it wouldn’t hold up construction later. Cheerleading Coach Lauren Badini addressed the board and answered questions regarding the operational constitution of the cheerleading squads. The issue appeared to be the limit (24 varsity and 18 JV) of the girls permitted to be on the varsity squad. Some board members felt that any “qualified” girls who had a successful tryout should be permitted on the squad. After some discussion the board approved (by motion) the constitution in its present form. The squad and coach were commended for a recent competition win in Charleroi. Three vendors were on hand to discuss their bids to supply beverages and/or snacks to students and faculty at the various schools. Coca Cola, Pepsi and CRH Catering took questions on their proposals. The board tabled the selection until the bids could be reviewed. The Board and administration thanked the Rams Club for a $6,000 donation to address a lack of books in school libraries. The Ringgold Marching Band and Greg
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Steele were commended for an invitation to participate in next year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City. High School Principal Dwayne Homa explained some changes in the high school science curriculum that involved Biology and Environmental Science classes. Fees charged to other school districts for the use of the stadium and swimming pool were discussed. It was decided that rental fees need to be examined in more detail. DOFC Officer Randy Skrinjorich attended an organizational meeting of the Washington Co. Tax Collection Committee. He is the Ringgold School District Representative for the new county-wide Earned Income Tax collection agency under Act 32. Awards were made to several board members for their service to the Ringgold School District. Superintendent Hamilton made the awards to Charles Smith (12 years), Mrs. Marianne Bulko (8 years) and Mrs. Marie Ripepi (8 years). In other business, the following were approved by motion: • The treasurer’s report was accepted without comment or correction. • The following bills were paid: General fund - $1,515,512,13 Athletic Fund $19,494.08 Cafeteria Fund $112,978.37 Capital Reserve $44,989.00 • The state audit report was accepted. • Adopted a lengthy resolution outlining intent to comply with the requirements of Act 34 with regard to the renovation of the RESS Building. The resolution set maximum project cost at $16,884,755.00 and the maximum building construction cost (new construction) at $7,830,740. It also set date (Dec. 14, 2009), time (7:00 pm) and place (Central Administration Building) for a public hearing on the project. The project description is to be made available to the
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general public for examination no less than 20 days prior to the public hearing. The project plan will be available at a place and time as indicated in the published notification. Payments to HHSDR ($812.00 and $1,252.00) were authorized for work related to the existing and new middle schools. Payment to WBC & M ($11,781.20) authorized for structural evaluation and monitoring services at the Ringgold Middle School. Payment to Deglau Eng. ($1,500) for a lot consolidation plan related to RESS. Accepted Penn Ave. from Carroll Twp. By Ringgold as part of the RESS. Letters of resignation were accepted from 4 teachers. The board approved hiring 2 teachers, an administrative assistant, 2 bus drivers, and the addition of 5 individuals to the substitute roster. Approved requests for medical leave from 3 individuals. Approved granting salary increases under clerical, administrative Act 93 and Contractual compensation plans and an increase to a teacher’s aid. Approved an improvement plan for Ringgold High School Permission was granted to place 5 students in alternative learning programs with all expulsions for 1 calendar year. Accept the Memo of Understanding presented on the use of stimulus money to fund math and writing coaching positions. Approved hiring of a 2nd Girl’s Assistant Basketball Coach, a Head 9th Grade Basketball Coach, an Assistant 9th Grade Basketball Coach, a Volunteer Assistant 9th Grade Basketball Coach and accepted the resignation of the Middle School Girl’s Basketball Coach.
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RINGGOLD SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS Veterans Honored at Gastonville Elementary By Paul Chasko Over fifty area veterans were guests at the Gastonville Elementary Center last month for a Veterans' Day Celebration. The event began with a luncheon served in the music room, which included a huge Veterans' Day cake donated by the Sugar B Bakery in Venetia. Many of the veterans in attendance belonged to the various
Veterans’ organizations and were in uniform. The Vets were led into the auditorium by the Mon Valley Shipmates who served as honor guard for the event. The celebration was mostly a musical tribute and every child had a part. The auditorium was packed with kids all eager to express their tribute to the veterans in song. Ten patriotic songs were sung or played during the pro-
gram. The program closed with a video presentation on the large screen prepared especially for the veterans followed by the playing of “Taps” by Daulton Kohl, Beau Stoioff and Matt Wollett. The playing of “Taps” was preceded by a moment of silence for all deceased veterans. Celebrations like this help the children understand why it’s fitting and proper to honor those who serve and have served in the armed forces.
Ringgold Summer Reading Program
(l-r) Beth Vaccaro, Library Director Donora; Rachel Roberts, English Department Head; and Dwayne Homa, Ringgold High School Principal.
Ringgold High School’s PSSA reading and writing scores have risen significantly in the past few years due to the incorporation of several new academic programs. One of these programs is the recently implemented literary campaign. The high school began this campaign a few years back with the 25-book reading challenge, which motivates
the students to read up to 25 books in a calendar year. At the end of the 2008-2009 school year, Ringgold High School continued its literary campaign by instituting a school wide summer reading program. This reading program begins with students choosing novels from an approved grade level list including both classic and modern fiction and nonfiction titles and ending with the student creating one of three creative projects to illustrate the main aspects of the novel. This new summer reading program has become so successful that the local libraries could not keep up with the demand for these popular novel titles. (l-r) Rachel Roberts, English Department Head; Dwayne Homa, Ringgold Ringgold High School Principal Dwayne Homa High School Principal; Nancy Stoicovy, Library Staff; and Elina Filander, and English Department Chairperson Rachel Library Director Monongahela. Roberts put in a request to the RAMS Club to help populate the local libraries with the titles from the When asked why this literacy campaign was initiated at summer reading lists. The RAMS club generously donated $6,000 which paid for approximately 600 books ranging the high school, Dwayne Homa stated, “Reading is such a from $10 to $22 per book. The books have been recently key element to success across the curriculum and success in distributed to four locations including the Donora and life. Reading skills are truly needed no matter the ultimate Monongahela libraries and the Ringgold Middle School and goal of the individual, and this program is a step towards enhancing this important life skill.” Ringgold High School libraries.
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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER
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Big Seven Conference Football Wrap-up No Surprise – TJ Wins Conference Championship By Paul Chasko The Thomas Jefferson Jaguars stretched their winning ways into another season by clinching the Big Seven Conference Title for 2009 and have once again moved on into the playoff games. At the very least you can say that TJ has been dominating western PA high school football for the past ten years. Take a look at their record since 2000. Conference record 57-3 Conference championships 8 WPIAL appearances 10 PIAA appearances 4 PIAA championships 3 That is an astounding record – congratulations to the players, coaching staff and administration for another winning season. The final standings in the Big Seven Conference had few surprises. The Big Seven Coaches at their fall conference picked first and second place teams accu-
rately enough but the remaining field of teams was a bit different than predicted. Thomas Jefferson Charters Valley Belle Vernon Trinity West Mifflin Elizabeth Fwd. Ringgold
9-0 5-1 3-3 3-3 2-4 1-5 1-5
The big surprise was Belle Vernon. The coach’s conference placed Belle Vernon in last place but the Leps surprised everyone by hanging on to third place by beating Trinity 21-6 in a mid-season game. Elizabeth Forward was expected to do better but Ringgold was in a building year with only one starter retuning for this season. I expect the Rams will do better next season. Their football program is building with intensity and there’s no where to go but up.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 63 SPORTS www.unionfinley.com
Regional Girls Volleyball Wrap-up By Paul Chasko
Class AAA – Section 2
Class AA – Section 5 School
W/L
WPIAL Playoffs
School
W/L
WPIAL Playoffs
Thomas Jefferson Elizabeth Fwd. South Park South Allegheny Steel Valley Wilkinsburg
9/1 8/2 7/3 4/6 2/8 0/10
Lost in 1st round Lost in preliminary Lost in preliminary No No No
Trinity Ringgold Connelsville Canon McMillan Peters Twp. Albert Gallatin
10/2 6/6 6/6 5/7 3/9 0/12
Lost in 1st round Lost in 1st round No No No No
Class AA – Section 4
Class A – Section 5
Early season action at the net between Ringgold and Connelsville
Of the schools within the Union-Finley Messenger primary readership area, that offer girl’s volleyball, only Ringgold and Thomas Jefferson made it into the WPIAL playoffs. Elizabeth Forward and South Park were eliminated in the preliminary rounds. None of our area teams made the PIAA (state playoffs) this season – even with the great 9-1 record chalked up by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson Morgan was the only WPIAL team that made the PIAA playoffs and they were eliminated in the first round. Final records and section standings are shown below. Ringgold, Thomas Jefferson, Elizabeth Forward and South Park continue to be hot teams in area girl’s volleyball.
School
W/L
WPIAL Playoffs
School
W/L
WPIAL Playoffs
Jefferson Morgan Frazier Geibel Carmichaels California Mapletown West Greene
11/1 11/1 8/4 5/7 4/8 2/10 1/11
Lost in semifinal Lost in Quarterfinal Lost in 1st round No No No No
Indiana Derry Yough Southmoreland Belle Vernon Charleroi
10/0 7/3 7/3 3/7 3/7 0/10
Lost in Quarterfinals Lost in Quarterfinals Lost in 1st round No No No
Valley Speed Skaters Earn Honors at Competitions Members of the Valley Speed Team recently returned home from a tri-state league meet held in Enola, PA and also a National Invitational held in Hagerstown, Md. The team practices at the Valley Skating Center in Donora three days per week year round. Any one, young or old wanting to join can contact coach Adorée DeLuca-Johnson at addie3489@hotmailcom. Children as young as three years old can participate.
Showing off their second place medals for the 3 man senior relay at the national Invitational in Hagerstown, MD are, Andrew Johnson of Donora, Franklin Hewitt and Cole Keffel both of Belle Vernon.
Enola, PA Winners from the tri-state league meet held in Enola are (Back l to r) - Miranda McLaughlin of Belle Vernon, Cole Keffel of Belle Vernon and Chrysta Rands of Donora. (Middle l to r) - David Mosco and Starr Melton both of Belle Vernon and (in front) is Connor Robertson of Charleroi. Missing from the photo is Kevin Rybicki of Pittsburgh and David Maman also of Belle Vernon.
SPORTS
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www.unionfinley.com idget Football isn’t all about winning but you’d have a hard time convincing players, coaches and parents that the kids are only there to learn the game. Even at the earliest levels football is a very competitive sport. So where you end up at season’s end is important to most of those involved. There are 64 teams involved in the Mon Valley Midget Football League playing in four age classifications (Tiny Mites, Termites, Mighty Mites and Midgets). The teams play in one of four divisions (North, South, East and West). Looking at the overall picture below, these kids should be grateful to the coaches, administrators and parents who make this all happen.
Mon Valley Midget Football League Season Wrap-up By Paul Chasko
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M
Mighty Mites [Full contact football – ages 10 and 11]
The Wildcat’s defense tightens up on Elizabeth Forward.
Tiny Mites
The Union-Finley Bears jam up a Warrior running play.
[Flag Football ages 5-7]
Team
Division Play
W/L/T
Playoff Performance
Rostraver Norwin Yough Elizabeth Forward Beth Center Frazier Charleroi Monessen Union Finley California South Allegheny Brownsville Monongahela Bentworth Donora Southmoreland
East Div. Champs North North Div. Champs North South Div. Champs East West Div. Champs East West South North South West South West East
8/0/0 7/1/0 7/1/0 6/2/0 5/2/1 5/2/1 5/3/0 5/3/0 4/4/0 3/5/0 3/5/0 2/6/0 1/6/1 1/7/0 0/7/1 0/8/0
Won Championship Finalist Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 2nd round Eliminated 2nd round Eliminated 1st round Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs
Termites [Full contact football – ages 8 and 9] Team
Division Play
W/L/T
Playoff Performance
Rostraver Norwin Elizabeth Forward Monessen South Allegheny Frazier Monongahela California Charleroi Beth Center Donora Brownsville Yough Southmoreland Union Finley Bentworth
East Div. Champs North Div. Champs North East North East West Div. Champs South Div. Champs West South West South North East West South
8/0/0 7/1/0 7/1/0 7/1/0 6/2/0 6/2/0 5/3/0 5/3/0 3/5/0 3/5/0 2/6/0 2/6/0 2/6/0 1/7/0 0/8/0 0/8/0
Won Championship Finalist Eliminated 2nd round Eliminated 2nd round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs
Team
Division Play
W/L/T
Playoff Performance
Rostraver Union Finley Norwin Frazier Brownsville Monongahela Beth Center Monessen Donora Elizabeth Forward South Allegheny California Charleroi Southmoreland Yough Bentworth
East Div. Champs West Div. Champs North Div. Champs East South Div. Champs West South East West North North South West East North South
8/0/0 7/1/0 7/1/0 7/1/0 6/2/0 6/2/0 4/4/0 4/4/0 4/4/0 3/5/0 3/5/0 2/6/0 1/7/0 1/7/0 1/7/0 0/8/0
Eliminated 2nd round Finalist Won Championship Eliminated 2nd round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Didn’t make playoffs Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs
Midgets [Full contact football – ages 12 and 13] Team
Division Play
W/L/T
Playoff Performance
Beth Center Rostraver Yough Elizabeth Forward Donora Frazier Monessen Southmoreland California Norwin Union Finley Charleroi Brownsville South Allegheny Monongahela Bentworth
South Div. Champs East Div. Champs North Div. Champs North West Div. Champs East East East South North West West South North West South
7/1/0 7/1/0 7/1/0 6/2/0 6/2/0 5/2/1 5/3/0 4/3/1 4/4/0 4/4/0 2/5/1 2/5/1 2/6/0 1/7/0 0/8/0 0/8/0
Won Championship Eliminated 2nd round Eliminated 2nd round Finalist Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Eliminated 1st round Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs Didn’t make playoffs
The Donora running game caused problems for opponents all season.
A Monongahela Wildcat tries a sweep around the Elizabeth Forward defense.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 65 SPORTS www.unionfinley.com Andreas Kamouyerou of S.P.B.C. is draped with The Greek Flag as referee Don Scott raises his hand for the win.
Local Boxing Update By Steven “Skeets” T. Levandosky
“Chaos On Carson” - The Sokol Club 2912 E.Carson St. Pittsburgh, Pa 201+ Super Heavy Weight - Brian Kelly 245 lbs. of South Park Boxing Club (S.P.B.C.) vs. Steve Kisty, 276 lbs. of Carrick Boxing. Kelly made Kisty retire on his stool after a one round dance with him, The heavy handed Kelly exploded a right hand missile that sent Kisty to the ropes. Brian kept teeing off until the bell sounded to end round one. Carrick Boxing’s corner had seen enough and waved it off.
NAIOP at The Omni William Penn Hotel, Pittsburgh, November 5 106lbs. Matt Conway of S.P.B.C. vs. Dameer Boddy Good Shepherd, Akron Ohio. This bout was a rematch of their first encounter on July 31, 2009. Boddy scored with some lead right hands that clipped Conway aside the head. Conway and Boddy put on the fight of the night. The special guest ring announcer all evening was Sally Wiggins from WTAETV. She announces that the judges award Dameer Boddy the rematch.
KO Cancer Card - Uniontown VFW, Post 47, November 1-9 152 lbs. Andreas Kamouyerou of S.P.B.C. vs. Devon Williams - Erie Boxing Club. Kamouyerou looked sluggish when he was matched with Williams. Williams boxed smart and out hustled Kamouyerou scoring with clean crisp combos. Andreas never found his rhythm. Erie’s Devon Williams wins.
The Great Hall, Heinz Field, October 30 180 lbs. Scott Alfer of S.P.B.C vs. Morgan Fitch of Ambridge Boxing Fitch has qualified for the Nationals before and it showed. His ring experi-
Referee Don Scott holds up the arm of Scott Alfer after his victory. This was Alfer’s second win with S.P.B.C. Matt Conway (at left) slips Kalib Parish’s jab and counters with the over hand right. Matt wins the decision. Brian Kelly (right) of S.P.B.C. measures up his Canton, Ohio foe. Brian wins the bout and is still undefeated.
(Photos by Skeets) Chris Yancey (at left) of S.P.B.C. unloads a left hook on his opponent but eventually drops the decision.
ence was to much for Alfer. Alfer did have some moments, but it was mostly Morgan scoring as he wins the bout.
October Fist - The Royal Place Friday, October 16 The October Fist Boxing Matches had five S.P.B.C. boxers do battle here are the results: 155 lbs. Andreas Kamouyerou of Peters Township and S.P.B.C. pounded Bill Murin of Mckeesport all three rounds and scored a couple of 8-counts on the way to victory.
185 lbs. Scott Alfer of S.P.B.C. started the first round slow, but picked up the pace during the last two rounds to win a decision over Steve Tyner of Prepared Athletes, Canton.Ohio
Super Heavyweight Brian Kelly, 247 lbs of North Verailles and S.P.B.C. slugged it out with Marquis Watkins, 269 lbs from Prepared Athletes, Canton Ohio. In the second round Kelly wobbled Watkins with a right uppercut to the jaw. Watkins was awarded an 8-count. From then on he stayed away from Kelly’s power. 110 lbs. Matt Conway of Brookline and S.P.B.C. takes on Caleb Parrish from West Allegheny Fighting Academy. These two boys have done battle well over 20 times. The results are the same with Conway doing most of the scoring. 141 lbs. Chris Yancey via LattrobePitt University and S.P.B.C. is matched against Markel Carter Gym of future Champs. This bout was non-stop action. Both boys scored well, but when the dust had cleared, Markel Carter wins the decision.
Overall, it was a good night for S.P.B.C. with 4 out of 5 wins, and all proceeds going to the club. The last week in October, S.P.B.C. sent two boys to San Antoino, Texas for the Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) Nationals. 152 pounder Andreas Kamouyerou, of S.P.B.C. won the first night on Monday, but then got beat the next night out. Monessen’s Sammy Vasquez made it to the semifinals on Friday only to be on the wrong side of the decision, Congrats to both boys!
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UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER
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Jefferson Hills Public Library 925 Old Clairton Road. Clairton, PA 15025 (412) 655-7741 Children’s Programs Storytime Preschool (including kindergarten) children ages 3, 4, 5 and 6 can enjoy stories, songs, movement and finger plays at Jefferson Hills Library at 10:30 am or 1:30 pm on Thursdays, December 3rd, 10th and 17th. Adult Programs Book Discussion Group The Jefferson Hills Book Discussion group will meet Monday, December 7th, to discuss My Antonia by Willa Cather. Join us for an interesting discussion. The book selection for the January 4th meeting is Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum. Conversation Salon The Library is holding a Conversation Salon the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at 10:30 am. The next meeting will be December 3rd. Topics will be chosen by the participants. Join us for an informative and stimulating discussion. Register at our Wesbite! Sign up for activities and events from your home. After logging onto our homepage @www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org, click on to “Events Scheduled”, select
activities which interest you and your family, and register online. You’ll be automatically registered without calling or making an trip to the library. Scrabble Club The Library’s Adult Scrabble Club continues to meet each Tuesday at 1 pm in the Community Room. Join us if you enjoy scrabble and good company. Items for our Troops The Teen Advisory Board has been collecting personal hygiene items and snacks for the troops in Iraq. Since July they have shipped 12 boxes to our hometown guys in Baghdad. This project will continue until the end of the year. Audio Books More than 750 audio books are free and available to download on your ipod by using your Jefferson Hills library card. Go to our website, www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org, click on e audio, and type in your library barcode number.
event. From noon until 4 p.m. children will be able to make marbleized holiday paper and stamped gift tags in the activity room. There will also be Christmas stories at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Holiday closings The library will be closed December 2426 and December 31 and January 1 for the holidays. Family Fun The library will hold a “Let it Snow!” themed Family Fun program on Tuesday, December 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Room. Snow and snowman stories will be the order of the day, along with a variety of snowflake crafts. Wii and Board Games Beat boredom at the library with Wii and board games. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, December 28 – 30 the library will have the games available in the Activity Room from 2 – 4 p.m.
Monongahela Area Public Library
Peters Township Public Library
813 W. Main Street Monongahela, PA 15063 (724) 258-5409
616 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 (724) 941-9430
Board Meeting The Board of Trustees will meet on Wednesday, December 9 at 7 p.m. Dickens of a Christmas The library will have a Christmas wrapping paper craft available for children during the annual community holiday
Children and Family Programs Trinity Bell Choir Tuesday, December 1 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Join us for a relaxing hour of holiday bell music. Refreshments will be served after the performance.
Christmas Joy: A Holiday Concert with Nicole Marie Gasse Saturday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m. Nicole will entertain us with an evening of selections from “Christmas Joy”, her holiday CD. Nicole Marie Gasse, soprano, is a graduate of the D’Angelo Department of Music at Mercyhurst College. She has displayed a passion for opera beginning at a young age and continues to pursue her dream of becoming a professional opera singer. Family After-Hours Movie Night Are movie prices getting you down? Not sure how to spend time with the family on a budget? Join us for our monthly Family After Hours Movie Night, complete with popcorn! Movies will be shown in the Teen Reading Room using the overhead projector and big screen. All ages welcome. Friday, December 4 - Batman Returns 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Children’s Holiday Party Sunday, December 6 from 6-8:00 p.m. Let’s gather outside the library for this annual tradition as we illuminate a giant ornament-filled tree! Follow us into the library for an evening of crafts and fun for the whole family to enjoy. Refreshments will be served and Santa will be there listening to special holiday wishes! Edible Holiday Treats Thursday, December 3 6:30-7:15 p.m. For kids and parents of all ages! Register in the Children’s Department.
Tap into the power of the Messenger. Call today to learn more.
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December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 67 LIBRARY NEWS www.unionfinley.com Family Ornament Night Tuesday, December 8 from 6:45-7:15 p.m. For kids and parents of all ages! Young Adult Programs Peters Township Public Library Youth Advisory Council Sunday, December 6 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Do you have ideas about how to improve the Young Adult Department? Are there programs you’d like to see offered or titles you’d like to see added to our collection? Join us in the Teen Room and we’ll discuss your ideas.
Holidays and Hot Cocoa Wednesday, December 16 6:30-8:00 p.m. For grades 6-12 Meet in the Teen Room to decorate cookies, drink hot cocoa, put some ornaments on the Teen Room tree and sing some holiday karaoke tunes. Adult Programs Afternoon Book Club for Adults December 16 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Abraham Lincoln by James McPherson Evening Book Club for Adults December 9 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. - The Lace Reader by Barry Brunonia
Super Smash Bros. Brawl Gaming Tournament Saturday, December 6 from Time: 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Check in is at 11:30 a.m. Game play will begin at 12:00 p.m. You must check in before 12:00 p.m. in order to play. Ages: Grades 6 - 12 Registration is required for each tournament session and is limited to 32 players.
Learn to Paint the One-stroke Donna Dewberry Way 2 weeks, Mondays, December 7 – 14 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Cost: $24.00 Diana Koch will teach adults how to master this ingenious painting method. Register at the library’s circulation desk.
Anime Club Friday, December 18 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Ages: Grades 6 - 12 Join us in the Teen Reading Room for food, drinks, and all things Anime and Manga. Bring your favorites to discuss and share every week.
Word Processing 3 Wednesday, December 2 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. Cost: $5.00 Students will learn about templates, multiple columns, adding graphics, mail merge, and discuss compatibility issues related to the Microsoft Office 2007 programs at the library. Pre-registration is required.
International Afternoons Wednesday, December 9 from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Ages: Grades 6 - 12 Each week we’ll talk about a new country and experience their culture, featuring movies, food and art. Late Night at the Library Thursdays, December 3 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Ages: Grades 6 - 12 Join us for an after-hours evening of mayhem each month at the library. We’ll do something new and exciting each session. Dinner and Discussion Monday, December 14 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.Ages: Grades 6 - 12 This fall, join us in the Teen Reading Room to discuss our favorite books and have dinner. Call or stop by the Teen Desk to find out what we are reading each month and to drop off your suggestions for dinner. Teen Writers’ Studio Tuesday, December 15 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Ages: Grades 6 - 12 Are you a writer or aspiring writer? Share and offer advice to your peers and fellow writers. Come prepared to share with something you have written or are in the process of writing.
Teen Talk Saturday, December 12 at 12:00 p.m. Students in grades 7-12 are invited to join us at the library for pizza, games, and conversation about pretty much anything and everything! No registration necessary.
Doing Research on the Web Wednesday, December 9 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. Cost: $5.00 This hands-on course will teach students how to do research on the Internet. Preregistration is required. Internet Assisted Job Search Wednesday, December 16 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. Cost: $5.00 Students will learn about Internet job sites, Internet e-mail, how to research jobs and employers in business databases and in newspaper help wanted ads from all over the country. Basic mouse and keyboarding skills are required. Pre-registration is required.
Pleasant Hills Public Library 302 Old Clairton Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236 (412) 655-2424 Children and Teen Programs Family Bedtime Story Time Join us for winter/holiday stories and crafts Monday, December 7, 14, and 21 at 7:00 p.m. No registration necessary.
Adult & Family Programs December 1 Writers Group meets at 6:30 p.m. Group offers support and encouragement plus creative writing exercises for authors and would-be authors. December 2 Countdown to the Holidays at 1:00. Learn some new ideas for making tasty appetizers with the nutritionist from Giant Eagle Market District. Registration appreciated Autism: What’s What: presented at 6:30 by Jesse Lostetor, graduate student at the University of California. December 4 Conversation Salon from 1:00 to 3:00. Newcomers welcome. Provides an opportunity to participate in lively discussions on topics of interest. December 7 Free Blood Pressure Screening by H.C.R. Manor Care from 11:00 to 1:00. Juice, snack and free promotional gift provided. Join the new Murder Mystery and Mayhem Midday Monday Book Club at 1:00. Book selection is Booked to Die by John Dunning. Serving a dessert “to die for.” Newcomers welcome December 9 Countdown to the Holidays at 6:30. Learn how to make live wreaths and garland using materials from your own back yard. December 21 Book Discussion Group meets at 7:00 p.m. with a Cookie and Recipe Exchange. Bring your favorite cookbook, or any book about food, along with a favorite recipe to exchange with other book club members.
South Park Township Public Library 2575 Brownsville Road South Park, PA 15129 (412) 833-5585
Children’s Programs Legos Club Thursday, December 3 at 6:30 p.m. We supply the Legos - you supply the creativity! Every meeting we will build on a new theme. This is a great family event for children of all ages! American Girl Book Club Thursday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. Samantha’s Surprise Girls in grades 2-5 are invited to join this special book club! Each month we will focus on a different American Girl and learn about the time period in which she lived. Snacks and crafts are part of this fun evening! Registration is requested by calling the library at 412 833-5585. Books will be available for check-out before the book club meeting date. Magic Tree House Book Club Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. December 17 – Lions at Lunchtime Students in grades 2-5 are invited to join this special book club based on the very popular Mary Pope Osborne series! Join us at the library to talk about the book, play games, make a craft, and, most of all, have fun! Registration is requested by calling the library at 412 833-5585. Books will be available for check-out before the book club meeting date. Adult Programs Intro. To Cross Country Skiing Wednesday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m. Ever feel like trying to cross country ski? Rick Garstka, President of the PA Cross Country Ski Assoc. will be here to discuss techniques, equipment, appropriate clothing, conditioning levels, trail grooming, and places to ski (near and far). Please call 412-833-5585 to register. Children over the age of 10 are welcome. Knitting Club Saturday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m. Beginner to expert, all are welcome. Come for new ideas, help with a project, or just come to relax and knit and have a cup of tea by the fireplace. South Park Township Library’s 4th Annual Christmas Party Monday, December 21 at 6:30 p.m. Come one and all to South Park Library’s Christmas celebration. There will be food, crafts, music and Mrs. Claus! There is something for everyone. No need to register.
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Automotive Is It Best To Repair Or Replace Your Car?
Don’t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Automoive Guide. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177
(NAPSI)-A growing number of people are finding that the economy has them debating whether it's best to buy a new car or repair the one they have. If you are trying to decide between buying and repairing, here are some tips that may help:
Comparing Costs It is typically less expensive in the long run to repair the vehicle you already own rather than purchasing a newer one. Financing even a $2,000 repair typically means lower payments (or similar payments for a shorter time) than those incurred when purchasing a newer vehicle.
The 50-Percent Rule After receiving the estimate of a major repair, consider the "50-percent rule." When the cost of a needed repair approaches 50 percent of the vehicle's value, it is time to seriously consider replacing it.
Reliability And Maintenance History The best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. If a repair shop knows the service history of a vehicle, consumers can look to its technicians for guidance on when their vehicle likely will need major repairs. "Following the vehicle manufacturer's maintenance recommendations can greatly increase the life span of vehicle," said John Nielsen, director of AAA Approved Auto Repair and Auto Buying.
Experts say the best way to know a vehicle's condition is by maintaining it on a regular basis and using the same repair shop. purchasing a newer vehicle that is better suited to a consumer's driving routine.
Outside Factors Cosmetics The cosmetic condition of a vehicle can greatly affect its value and a motorist's desire to hold on to it. Motorists should take a critical look at their vehicle for signs of wear and tear and evaluate how important their vehicle's cosmetics are to them.
Lifestyle Changes in lifestyle can be a large factor in changing vehicles. Family size, commute length, recreational usage and business needs are all legitimate reasons to consider
Several outside factors may impact the decision between repairing and replacing a vehicle, such as reduced pricing and special offers from manufacturers. A vehicle that could become a valuable classic might be worthy of extraordinary repairs and maintenance. If you decide to go with a major repair, be sure to use a qualified and trustworthy auto repair facility. A listing of AAA Approved Auto Repair shops is available at AAA.com/repair.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 69 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
Food & Dining Professional Ranges Make Gourmet Meals (NewsUSA) - Watching food programs has become a favorite activity for many Americans, but recreating the gourmet meals onscreen is often easier said than done. True, television chefs often have cooking degrees from fancy schools and years of restaurant experience, but you don't need to be a professional to put an impressive meal on the table. What you do need is professional-quality cooking equipment. Americans looking for the professional cooking experience can buy professional ranges for home-use. These ranges mimic the power and larger cooking surfaces of commercial models in a heavy duty, stainless steel package with the insulation and convenience features required for cooking at home. A burner on a standard stove has a power output of about 9,000 BTU, whereas a professional range for the home will average 15,000 BTU. Putting even more power to work for home chefs, Thermador's Professional Series ranges and rangetops feature starshaped burners with an output of 18,000 BTU each. The results: with this much power on every burner, large pots of water will boil in a fraction of the time, and overall faster and more even heating results, allowing the most challenging recipes and techniques to be mastered at home.
Thermador, which started making professionalstyle ranges for home use in the 1990s, recently introduced its fourth-generation Star Burner. The burner's unique design directs heat evenly from the center of the pan to its edges creating a more even and superior distribution of heat than the standard circular burner, reducing cold spots, which ultimately affects the way the food will cook. Thermador Professional Series ranges also feature patented ExtraLow simmer burners, which have an output of 375 BTU per hour. This precise simmer control system enables home cooks to heat delicate sauces or melt chocolate without scorching or stirring. Professional ranges for the home also offer a streamlined, professional look. With a bold, chiseled profile, high-grade stainless steel knobs and an angled door handle, the Professional Series from Thermador creates a classic, robust feel in any home kitchen.
Professional ranges for home use offer more power than standard kitchen stoves.
For more information, visit www.thermador.com.
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Food Safety and Your Family: Taking Steps to Erase Consumer Doubt (NewsUSA) - Frequent food recalls have left consumers worried about foodborne illness. With recent outbreaks affecting lettuce, spinach, peppers, beef, tomatoes, cilantro, peanut butter and pistachios, it seems like no food is safe. With unemployment and health care costs on the rise, few Americans can afford missed work or medical costs from food poisoning. Foodborne bacteria can lead to medical impairments, bankruptcy and -- in serious cases -- death. But consumers, aside from taking precautions when handling and cooking certain foods, can't avoid contamination that occurs during manufacture, preparation or packaging. Potentially dangerous foods look no different from safe items. Through the naked eye, it is nearly impossible to know whether food is contaminated. To solve America's food safety issues, food must be guaranteed safe before it's available for purchase. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration simply doesn't have the manpower to inspect every farm, food manufacturer and food service operator. Luckily for consumers, some private labels are Private labels ensure that working to make America's grocery store food has been cleaned, shelves safer. Global Food Technologies, Inc. created its monitored, tested and iPura Food Safety and Quality Assurance deemed safe to eat. Program to significantly reduce the chances of food poisoning. Foods displaying the blue iPura seal have undergone testing, organic cleaning, more testing, and packaging in a controlled environment, preventing cross-contamination. Americans purchasing iPura-branded foods know their items were packaged safely, so they don't have to worry about serving up dangerous bacteria at dinnertime. Private label food-safety programs like Global Food Technologies, Inc. could prove key in eliminating food safety concerns. Consumers will no doubt look for safe food brands, and in avoiding food poisoning, Americans will need fewer sick days. Food manufacturers and retail industries may also see benefits as consumer doubts about their brands are erased. To find iPura food products, visit www.askyourgrocer.com.
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 71 FOOD ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– & DINING www.unionfinley.com
Third Annual Symphony of Food The Third Annual Symphony of Food – Chefs’ Showcase Dinner sponsored by WOMEN of Southwestern PA, Inc. will be held on Friday, January 22, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. The Parade of Chefs will be held at Bella Sera by Greco’s, 414 Morganza Rd., Canonsburg. Tickets are $75.00 (taxdeductible, non-refundable donation). Reservations are required. For tickets, call 412-310-3722 For additional event information, visit www.womenofswpa.org. An exciting change to our event this year is showcasing women chefs. Eight wellknown, local women chefs will prepare one of the sit-down dinner’s six courses. The participating chefs and restaurants are: Clare Lise – Mitchell’s Fish Market; Jennifer Girasole – Girasole’s; Jessica Gibson – BISTRO 19; Jessica Gombar – The Pie Place; Rania Harris – Rania’s To Go; and Jacky Fife - Bella Sera Event Venue; Gretchen Corrado, Gretchen’s Good Eats, Inc.; and Carolyn Yurkovich – Cooking with Carolyn. The chefs each come with a litany of fine-dining successes and the recipe for a fun-filled, palate-pleasing evening. Live jazz and a Chinese auction add to a marvelous evening. Brenda Waters, KDKA TV week-
Watch all your Steelers games here! The best Steelers special in town: everytime the Steelers score a touchdown your next drink is the price of the jersey.
Drink & Pizza Specials ALL DAY, EVERY DAY Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri.
Brenda Waters, Master of Ceremonies
end anchor, is the master of ceremonies. Corporate sponsorships – tables of twelve – with wine pairings are available for $1,300.00. Sponsorship opportunities at various levels are also available. For sponsorship details, call Jan Kennedy at 724-941-2794.
Sat. Sun.
GOERS! L TEE
S
’T DON S MIS S THI
994 Vodka Drinks & One Lg. 12-cut $6.99 994 Drafts & One Lg. 12-cut $6.99 $2 Bottles & Two 6-cut Smalls $9.99 994 Rum and Cokes & Two 6-cut Smalls $9.99 Power Hour 9:30-10:30 pm 994 Bottle Drafts and Well Drinks & Two 12-cut Lg. (1 topping) $21.99 $3 Long Island Iced Teas & 12-cut Lg. Gourmet Pizza $12.99 $1 Drafts during game and Touchdown Special & Two 12-cut Lg. (1 topping) $21.99
Thursday’s Open Mic Jam Nights. Join us Sat. Dec. 5 for Angelo’s Christmas Party with Flyght Band & Sat. Dec. 19 Rick Ashcroft both live. Make any of our hoagies Goliath style.
The Family
Restaurant & Lounge
3547 Washington Ave • Finleyville •
724-348-8800
DINING HOURS: MON-THURS: 11 AM-10 PM, FRI & SAT: 11 AM - 11 PM (BAR OPEN LATER), SUN: 1 PM
$1 delivery charge • $8 min. order • last order taken 1/2 hour before closing
PACKING COMPANY
Starting December 3
Now delivering to expanded areas.
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Your Money Don’t Be Left Out of Our Union-Finley Messenger Money Section. For Editorial or Advertising Opportunities, call (412) 249-8177
$$ $ $ $ $ $$$
Will You Be Fiscally Fit in 2010? (ARA) - The change from one year to the next presents the perfect opportunity to reassess our lives - where we've been, where we are and where we intend to go next. With signs the economy is slowly recovering, many people are likely to re-examine their financial health again as 2009 gives way to 2010. How is your financial health? If you're not sure where to begin in assessing your fiscal well-being, here's a brief checklist you can review to generate some good ideas. Item No. 1 - Know your credit score and what's on your report. The recession has probably changed forever how we access, use and monitor credit. With more companies and organizations - from potential employers and medical offices to mortgage companies and auto lenders - looking to credit scores and reports to get an idea of your reliability, checking your report more than once a year is extremely important. More Americans are turning to Web sites like FreeCreditReport.com to enroll in credit monitoring products, like Triple Advantage, that allow them to gain instant access to their free credit report and score, and includes daily monitoring of their credit reports at the three credit reporting agencies. Members receive notification alerts if key changes are detected on any of their credit reports so they can take immediate action, if necessary. Item No. 2 - Build your savings. It's been widely reported that Americans are saving more in an effort to build a financial safety net for themselves and their families. This is one trend it pays to follow. Depending on your level of debt and monthly expenses, you should have savings to cover three or four months worth of bills in the event that you lose your income, experts say. And with job searches stretching over many months while unemployment rates remain high, some experts are advising you should have savings in the bank to cover more than six months of living expenses. Item No. 3 - Reassess your mortgage. With steady low mortgage rates and plenty of federal aid available to assist home-
owners trapped in dangerous mortgages, it may be the right time for you to re-examine your mortgage. Are you in an adjustable rate mortgage that's reset or is about to go to a much higher rate? Are you in a conventional mortgage that's at a rate higher than what you might be able to find through refinancing? If you can lower your monthly payment, interest rate or the overall amount you'll pay in interest for the life of the loan, it may be worth considering refinancing. For free mortgage advice, check out the federal government Web sites www.USA.gov and www.HUD.gov. Before you consider refinancing, be sure to check your credit report and score, as both may affect whether you qualify to refinance your mortgage. Item No. 4 - Keep track of your identity through credit monitoring Monitoring your credit report can help you spot some of the most common types of identity theft, including credit card and loan fraud. Web sites like FreeCreditReport.com allow you to enroll in a credit monitoring product that checks your credit report every day and alerts you right away if key changes are detected. If no new activity appears, you'll receive an "all clear" notice every month. Monitoring allows you to spot suspicious or fraudulent activity, like the appearance of accounts you didn't open or unpaid credit card charges you didn't make. With a little introspection and examination of your current finances, you can decide what steps you need to take to prepare to greet 2010 fiscally fit and financially confident. Courtesy of ARAcontent
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 73 YOUR––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MONEY www.unionfinley.com
Sticking To A Holiday Budget Without Being A Grinch (NAPSI)-You may already be feeling it-that perennial "urge to splurge" that strikes just as the holiday catalogs hit mailboxes and in-store Santas appear. This year, though, that urge will be sorely tested: On the one hand, 65 percent of consumers say the economy will affect their holiday plans, according to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, with 84 percent of them planning to spend less. On the other hand, who wants to disappoint those on your holiday list? While it's Gift cards can help you unrealistic to cut spending completely, the gloomy forecast simply means you need to stay on budget this shop smarter. Here are several ways to holiday season. approach this holiday season without burning up your bank account: Think Like a Retailer: Stores are hoping to avoid a repeat of last year's holiday fire-sale prices, and the National Retail Federation anticipates that "many sales may only be offered to a retailer's most loyal customers." That means if you haven't done so already, sign up for e-mails from your favorite stores to be alerted to special discounts. Keep in mind that most retailers have lowered their inventories by an average of 10 percent from 2008, according to recent Standard & Poor information. Plan Ahead: Drafting a list of who you're shopping for will keep you focused and on budget. Using the Internet to research gift ideas and compare costs is a great way to prepare before hitting the stores. And when you head out to shop, have your list handy so you stay on track. The Mighty Widget: Some of the best deals can be unearthed without waiting for a discount e-mail to arrive in your inbox. By placing one of these store icons on your computer desktop or embedding it on your personalized home page--widgets are downloadable from many retailers' Web sites--one click gives you access to all the specials. Consider Gift Cards: Gift cards can be an ideal, stress-free solution to getting that perfect gift that recipients really want, and because you set the value upfront, they also help keep you from going over budget. In fact, 79 percent of shoppers intend to buy gift cards this holiday season, according to a study conducted by the consulting firm Accenture. But not all cards are created equal. Be sure to choose one like the American Express Gift Card (www.americanexpress.com/gift), which has no monthly fees, no expiration of funds, and can be used everywhere instead of just one specific store. Season's Eatings: Unfortunately, it's impossible to buy gifts for everyone. An easy, inexpensive way to acknowledge others beyond family and close friends is by baking a large batch of cookies and gifting small, wrapped portions to acquaintances, co-workers and neighbors. That's a Wrap: At the end of each holiday season, stock up on marked-down wrapping paper, gift bags and greeting cards for next year and put everything in a box with tape and scissors. You'll be one step--and several dollars--ahead.
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Entertainment Live Music & Entertainment at Your Neighborhood Hot Spot! DECEMBER Angelo’s Pizza & Gyro 724-348-8800 • Finleyville 3 - Open Mic Jam Night 5 – Angelo’s Christmas Party w/ Flyght 10 - Open Mic Jam Night 11 - DJ/Karaoke 17 - Open Mic Jam Night 18 - DJ/Karaoke 19 - Rick Ashcraft Altman’s Tavern 412-653-6440 •Old Clairton Rd, Pleasant Hills 3 - Ladies Night 6-9 5 - Occasional Reign 12 - Rhombus 17 - Spider Rondenelli 19 - The Majestics 26 - Rhythm Shakers 31 - New Year’s Eve Party w/ Johnny Van Badlands Bar & Grille 724-348-8030 • Finleyville 4 - Steal Alive 5 - Heads Up 12 - Steeltown 19 - Sidewinder 26 - TBA 31 - New Year’s Eve Party Tuesdays - Texas Hold ‘Em & Fee Pool Wednesday - Corn Hole Thursdays - DJ/Karaoke Dave and Michelle Fridays - DJ/Karaoke w/ Dave and Michelle Sundays - Steelers Specials Bootsie’s Bar 412-672-1120 • 699 O’Neil Blvd, McKeesport 5 - Big Tony & Co. Thursdays - DJ Chris Fridays - DJ Chris
Brass Monkey 412-233-3375 • 428 State St, Clairton Sundays - Late Night at the B-Monk Club Octane 724-317-8326 • Charleroi 12 - The Spiffies 16 - School Boy Humor, Just Left, SoundWar 19 - DR. ACULA Denny’s Roadhouse 724-258-6232 • Finleyville Entertainment 9:30 PM - 1:30 AM Mondays - Open Stage Blues Jam w/ Hermie Granati and Denny Leech Eck’s Restaurant & Lounge 1-877-EAT-ECKS 1574 Fourth Street, Monongahela 23 - All But Forgotten Elrama Tavern 412-384-3630 • 1520 Rt 837, Elrama 12 - Elderado Kings 23 - Christmas Party w/ Todd Jones Freddie’s II 412-833-1830 • Bethel Park 22 - Annual Christmas Party with DJ Paul 31 - New Year’s Eve Party $10 Thursdays - Magician Jason Christopher 6:30-8:30 Hey Andy Sportsbar and Lounge 724-258-4755 • Monongahela 4 - Whiskey Outlaws 5 - Broken Spoke 11 - Matt Tichon 12 - The Klick 18 - Fynal Tyme 2 31 - New Year’s Eve Party Flyght $10 buffet Wednesdays - Jam Night Thursdays - White Rose Karaoke The Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe Jacksons Restaurant 724-743-5005 • Canonsburg 4 - Sputzy and Jeremy 11 - Pete Hewlett and Scott Anderson 18 - Sputzy and Jeremy Monday Night Football Specials Hot House Tap and Grille 724-258-4212 807 Dry Run Road, Monongahela Entertainment 9:00PM - 1:30AM 19 - Lucid Factor Tuesdays - Karaoke/DJ
PUMP UP the
Rockin’ Willies
VOLUME!
by Mandy Withers-Kozl owski
ATTENTION: local bars, restaurants, & nightclubs If you would like to be included in the monthly “PUMP UP THE VOLUME” section to promote and list your bands, please send us your list of performances each month. There is no fee for this listing. Fax: 412-249-8177 or e-mail: mandy@unionfinley.com or visit www.myspace.com/ufmpuv Wednesdays - Ladies Night w/ Top 40 DJ Thursdays - Open Mic Night hosted by Jim O’Connor - all musicians welcome Fridays - Karaoke/DJ Saturdays - Karaoke/DJ The Hunting Lodge 724-348-79843529 Washington Ave, Finleyville Fridays - Free Juke Box 8-close Saturdays - Free Juke Box 8-close Open Christmas Eve The Kickstand Bar & Restaurant 412-384-3080 • 1100 Hayden Blvd 5 - 2 Clam Sam 12 - The Jades 31 - New Year’s Eve Party Olde Large Hotel 412-384-9950 • 510 Oak Rd, Jefferson Hills 4 - Fungus 11 - The Fennels 18 - Wizdom 19 - Christmas Party Pit Stop Bar and Grille 412 -384 -7487 • Elrama 19 - Christmas Party Saturdays - Free Juke Box 9-1 River House Cafe 724-565-5700 • Charleroi Entertainment - 9:30PM -1:30AM 3 - Beer Tasting Event - Tickets on sale now 5 - 2 Thumbs Up 12 - Shovel Head 19 - Broken Spoke 25 - Closed - Merry Christmas 26 - DJ Galiffa 31 - New Years Eve Party w/ Black Dog Hollow
Roadhouse 724-745-8844 • Canonsburg Entertainment Nightly Monday - Sunday Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ Tom Terling Jam Band and Don Cappa The Guitarman Various singers and players - all musicians welcome Roy’s By The Tracks 724-348-7118 • 3710 Rt. 88, Finleyville 4 - Matt Barranti 11 - Bill Ali 18 - Lost Coins 23 - Christmas Party 31 - New Year’s Eve Party Tuesdays - Jam Night w/ Bill Couch Wednesdays - Karaoke w/ Brett Saturdays - Karaoke w/ Ricki Sundays - Karaoke w/ Ricki Steelers Specials Sweeney’s Cafe & Pub 724-929-8383 • Belle Vernon 5 - Branded 11 - Rubber Crutch 12 - DJ Ben 19 - Black Magic 26 - Crosstown 31 - New Year’s Eve Party with Obscured by the Pink The Trolley Stop Inn 412-835-9600 • Bethel Park Every Sunday - Karaoke 10PM Every Friday - Magician Jason Christopher 79PM Valley Hotel 412-233-9800 • Jefferson Boro Every Friday - Open Stage Night - all musicians welcome
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 75 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
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-------- ADOPTION --------PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby's One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6292. ____________________________________________________ Faced with an unplanned pregnancy? Loving couples await. Receive information/pictures; you choose. Open or closed adoption. Assistance available. Call compassionate counselor. 1-866-236-7638; 24/7 ____________________________________________________ A LOVING COUPLE wishes to give your newborn endless love and opportunities. Expenses paid. Please call Janet & Charlie (toll-free) 1-800-3153398. ____________________________________________________ LOOKING TO ADOPT - Married couple has lifetime of love to give your newborn. Expenses paid.We’re here to talk. Call Scott & Francesca, 1-877345-WISH (9474). ____________________________________________________
-------- AUTOMOTIVE --------1998 Corvette coupe. This magnificent machine is fast, comfortable, reliable, handles well, and looks impressive. The 1998 Corvette was Motor Trend magazine’s “Car of the Year”. 5.7L, 345 HP, automatic, silver interior and exterior, two roofs (tinted or silver), low mileage (35K), just two owners, always garaged, new exhaust for just the right rumble tone, non-smoker,____________________________________________________ many options. A great buy at $18,900. (724) 782-0327. 1993 Harley 1200 Sportster, inspected, runs great, lots of new parts, five speed, three gallon tank, belt drive. $3,200.00 obo Must sell. Call 412302-3544. ____________________________________________________ 2000 Honda Civic - 127,000 mi., Very good condition, New battery and Radio, CD player. New front brake pads. $5,200. Call 724-258-4815. ____________________________________________________ 1978 corvette for sale! T-top, automatic, with 63,000 miles. Nice but not perfect. Best offer around $11,000. Please text offers to 412-780-5998. ____________________________________________________ Sachs Suburban Moped, 49 cc engine. Good Condition, 3,207.9 miles. $400.00. Call 412-897-0329. ____________________________________________________
JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ____________________________________________________ Original 302 DZ Engine, long block, numbers visible. Best offer: 724348-5230. ____________________________________________________ Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622. ____________________________________________________ WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI,1970-1980, Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, H2-750, H1-500, S1-250, S2-250, S2-350, S3-400. CASH PAID. 1-800-772-1142. 1-310-721-0726. ____________________________________________________
———— AUTO DONATIONS ————DONATE YOUR CAR. FREE TOWING. "Cars for Kids". Any condition. Tax deductible Outreach Center. 1-800-597-9411 ____________________________________________________ AAAA ** DONATION - Donate your Car Boat or Real Estate. IRS Tax Deductible. Free Pick-up/Tow. Any Model/Condition. Help Under Privileged Children. Outreach Center. 1-800-928-7566 ____________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR, Truck or Boat to HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation. Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care of. 1888-544-9393. ____________________________________________________ DONATE A CAR – HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing. Call 7 days/week. Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. 1-800-578-0408 ____________________________________________________ Donate A Car Today To Help Children And Their Families Suffering From Cancer. Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Children’s Cancer Fund of America, Inc. www.ccfoa.org. 1-800-469-8593. ____________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR – HELP CHILDREN WITH CAMP AND EDUCATION. Quickest Towing. Non-Runners/Title Problems OK. Free Vacation/Cruise Voucher. Special Kids Fund 1-866-448-3865. ____________________________________________________ DONATE YOUR CAR…To The Cancer Fund of America. Help Those Suffering With Cancer Today. Free Towing and Tax deductible. 1-800-8359372 www.cfoa.org. ____________________________________________________
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-------- EDUCATION ---------
Reach over 30 million homes with one buy. Advertise in NANI for only $2,795 per week! For information, visit www.naninetwork.com ____________________________________________________ Advertise in PRINT & ONLINE to over 8 million readers all at one time throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region. Call 1-800-450-7227 or email info@macnetonline.com. ____________________________________________________ Have a Business? Find new customers by advertising in print & online to over 8 million readers all at one time throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region. Smaller coverage areas available. Call today 1-800-450-7227 or visit www.macnetonline.com. ____________________________________________________
Earn your high school diploma at home. First Coast Academy, nationally accredited. 1-800-658-1180, www.fcahighschool.org ____________________________________________________ AIRLINE MECHANIC: Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance. 866-453-6204. ____________________________________________________ Free Advice! We'll Help You Choose A Program or Degree To Get Your Career & Your Life on Track. Call Collegebound Network Today! 1-877-3610641. ____________________________________________________ EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-509-3308 www.CenturaOnline.com ____________________________________________________ Flight Attendants Needed. Imagine…free travel, great benefits and good pay. Four weeks training with The Airline Academy can make it happen. Call Now! (800) 851-4642 ____________________________________________________ HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6-8 weeks. Accredited. Payment Plan. FREE Brochure. Call Now 1-800-264-8330. www.diplomafromhome.com. Benjamin Franklin High School ____________________________________________________ HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in 4 Weeks! FREE Brochure. CALL NOW! 1-866-562-3650 Ext. 30. www.southeasternhs.com ____________________________________________________ HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Fast Affordable & Accredited. FREE Brochure. Call Now! 1-800-532-6546 x412. www.continentalacademy.com ____________________________________________________
-------- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES --------All Cash Vending! Do you earn $800/day? Local Vending routes. 25 machines + candy. $9,995. 1-800-807-6485. (Void/SD,CT,MD) ____________________________________________________ ATTENTION READERS: Earn money from home processing mortgage assistance postcards. No advertising. Direct deposit available. References available. No gimmicks. 800-650-2090. ____________________________________________________ ALL CASH VENDING! Do you earn $800 in a day? Includes 25 Local Machines and Candy for $9,995. 1-800-807-6486. ____________________________________________________
-------- COMPUTERS --------COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837. ____________________________________________________ Geeks-In-Route & On-site Computer & Computer Networking Services by A+ & Microsoft or CISCO Certified Technicians. If We Can’t Fix____________________________________________________ It, It’s Free! MC/DIS/AMEX/VISA. 1-866-661-GEEK (4335) NEW COMPUTER - Guaranteed approval! Bad credit? No Problem! Checking account required, No credit check. Name brands. www.BlueHippo.com 1-800-372-0163. ____________________________________________________
-------- EMPLOYMENT --------Personal Care Assistant – Partially disabled veteran in need of personal care. 3 hrs. per day, 3 - 4 days per week. $8 per hour. Forward Township / ____________________________________________________ Elizabeth area. 412-384-3480. ROOFING & SIDING SUBCONTRACTORS NEEDED! 724-941-7833. ____________________________________________________ Part Time Experienced Cook Wanted - 412-233-2626. ____________________________________________________
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Hot Box Pizza & Wings NOW HIRING! • Cooks • Drivers 412-831-2000 ____________________________________________________
Seeking energetic self-motivated individuals to manage day and evening shifts. Ability to multi-task. Strong leadership qualities and people skills. Duties include; phone order taking, operation of POS system, inventory and labor control, oversee cooks and drivers. Fast food management experience preferred. Will train. Call 724348-8844. WANTED - Auto detailers. Experienced only. 412-831-0581. Experienced Barmaid. Evening Shifts - 412-233-2626. ____________________________________________________ Cooks & Bartenders Needed - Stop by in person, Monday nights after 7:00 p.m. Denny’s Roadhouse – Ginger Hill. 724-258-6232. ____________________________________________________ Child Care - Sunshine Kids is now hiring loving, energetic people who enjoy working with children. Part time or full time positions available. Please call Tammy at 724-348-6565. ____________________________________________________ Great opportunity working and playing with children, infants through school-agers, in NAEYC-accredited child development center in South Park. Associate's degree plus minimum. Call 412-43-8513 for details. E.O.E. ____________________________________________________ MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily. Get paid to shop pt/ft. Call now 800-690-1272. ____________________________________________________ Travel, Travel, Travel! $500 sign-on bonus. Seeking sharp guys and gals, Rock-n-Roll Atmosphere, Blue Jean Environment! Call Kevin 888-8901050 today! ____________________________________________________ SOLD DOOR - TO - DOOR? $500 sign on bonus. Expanding business nationwide. Avg. pay $1200/wkly. 2 wks paid training & relocation to Arizona. Call 800-638-6089. ____________________________________________________ LOCAL TYPISTS needed immediately. $400+PT - $800+FT weekly. Flexible schedules, work from home training provided. 1-800-757-2304. ____________________________________________________ WORK AT HOME. Government Jobs, data entry, clerical benefits. $12-$48 hr.____________________________________________________ FT/PT. Call 1-888-293-7370. AFCP is searching for an Executive Director. Access more info concerning this job posting at www.afcp.org. ____________________________________________________ Earn up to $30 per hour. Experience not Required. Undercover shoppers needed to judge retail and dining establishments. Call 800-742-6941. ____________________________________________________ $$$ 21 People Wanted $$$ Earn $1,200 - $4,400 Weekly Working From Home Assembling Information Packets. No Experience Necessary! Start Immediately! FREE Information. Call 24hrs. 1-888-298-2090. ____________________________________________________ $$$ START NOW $$$ Earn Extra Income. Assembling CD Cases from home! No Experience Necessary. Call our Live Operators for more information! 1-800-405-7619 Ext 2181. www.easywork-greatpay.com. ____________________________________________________
READER ADVISORY: Reader Advisory: the National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment” but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.
CLASSIFIEDS
———————————————————————————— December 2009
www.unionfinley.com $$$WORK FROM HOME$$$ Earn Up To $3,800 Weekly Working from VIAGRA/CIALIS SAVE $400 / 40 PILLS $99.00 FREE PRESCRIPTIONS. PRICES. ORDER NOW! 888-729-0700. Meds for Men. Home assembling Information packets. No Experience Necessary! Start LOWEST ____________________________________________________ Immediately! FREE Information. CALL 24hrs. 1-877-224-0207. ____________________________________________________ HERNIA REPAIR? DID YOU RECEIVE A COMPOSIX KUGEL MESH PATCH **BODYGUARDS WANTED** FREE Training for members. No Experience BETWEEN January 2001 AND Present? If the Kugel patch was removed due OK. Excellent $$$. Full & Part Time. Expenses Paid When Traveling. 1-615- to complications of bowel perforation, abdominal wall tears, puncture of abdominal organs or intestinal fistulae, you may be entitled to compensa228-1701. www.psubodyguards.com. ____________________________________________________ Attorney Charles Johnson 1-800-535-5727. ____________________________________________________ ASSEMBLE MAGNETS & CRAFTS FROM HOME! Year-round Work! tion. Excellent Pay! No Experience! Top US Company! Glue Gun, Painting, ABSOLUTELY NO COST TO YOU! Limited Time Offer Power Wheelchairs Scooters Medicare approved CALL NOW! 1-888-513-5337. Jewelry & More! TOLL FREE 1-866-844-5091, code 5 **Not available and ____________________________________________________ MD** ____________________________________________________ AFFORDABLE HEALTH BENEFITS Prescription and Doctor co-pay Earn up to $30 per hour. Experience not Required. Undercover shoppers Hospitalization/ Surgery/ Dental/ Wellness/ Emergency Room/ Accidental Medical & More. From $165.00 monthly. 800-971-7075. needed to judge retail and dining establishments. Call 800-720-3708. ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ $$$ 21 People Wanted $$$ Earn $1,200 - $4,400 Weekly Working From VIAGRA/CIALIS SAVE $400 / 40 PILLS $99.00 FREE PRESCRIPTIONS. PRICES. ORDER NOW! 877-590-6337. NU Life Inc. Home Assembling Information Packets. No Experience Necessary! Start LOWEST ____________________________________________________ Immediately! FREE Information. Call 24hrs. 1-888-255-2802. ____________________________________________________ MALE SIZE ENLARGEMENT FDA Medical Vacuum Pumps Gain 1-3 Inches Earn up to $500 weekly assembling our angel pins in the comfort of your Permanently. Testosterone, Viagra, Cialis. Free Brochures. 1-619-294www.drjoelkaplan.com (Discounts Available) home. No experience required. Call 813-699-4038 or 813-425-4361 or 7777 ____________________________________________________ visit www.angelpin.net. ____________________________________________________ -------- ITEMS FOR SALE --------Local typists needed immediately. $400+ PT - $800+FT weekly. Flexible schedules, work from home, training provided. 1-800-757-2304. ____________________________________________________ DISCOUNT $$$WORK FROM HOME$$$ Earn Up To $3,800 Weekly Working from FIREWOOD! Home assembling Information packets. No Experience Necessary! Start 724-255-1691 Immediately! FREE Information. CALL 24hrs. 1-888-202-1012. ____________________________________________________ 3-wheel scooter. New battery. A-1 condition! $400. 724-348-6250. ____________________________________________________ Local typists needed immediately. $400+ PT - $800+FT weekly. Flexible schedules, work from home, training provided. 1-800-207-6917. 1993 Harley 1200 Sportster, inspected, runs great, lots of new parts, five ____________________________________________________ SURROGATE MOTHERS needed from East Coast. Carry couples biological speed, three gallon tank, belt drive. $3,200.00 obo Must sell. Call 412____________________________________________________ babies, prior birth experience required, non-smoker. Generous compensa- 302-3544. Stamp Album with Stamps. Large Starter Collection. All Countries Pre tion. Toll-free 1-888-363-9457 www.reproductivepossibilities.com Melissa 1965. $50. 724-684-5531. ____________________________________________________ B.____________________________________________________ Brisman. Church Pew. Solid Oak 6 ? Ft with Seat Cushion. Nice for Your Entry Way. $125. 724-684-5531. -------- FINANCIAL/INSURANCE --------____________________________________________________ Ladder, 32 ft Aluminum Extension. Heavy Duty with Sid Hand Rails & Flat LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT LOANS, Auto Accidents & Work Comp. LOW Steps. $180. 724-684-5531. ____________________________________________________ FEES on all cases. 866-709-1100, www.glofin.com. ____________________________________________________ Book for sale. Non-fiction, Out-Of-Print. “Nazi Prisoners of War in BANKRUPTCY $299 Plus $399 for court costs. Fast, Easy, Secure, – by Arnold Kramer. Exc. Condition. $65. 412-751-2359. ____________________________________________________ proven. Let us handle your entire bankruptcy, GUARANTEED. No Additional America” Quickee – P-20 Electric Wheelchair. Very good shape. Brand new batFees. Call now (800)878-2215. www.signhere.org. ____________________________________________________ Like new. Best offer. 724-258-4602. ____________________________________________________ AFFORDABLE HEALTH BENEFITS Prescription and Doctor co-pay teries. Hospitalization/ Surgery/ Dental/ Wellness/ Emergency Room/ Accidental Maytag Washer, High Efficiency Energy Star Rated, SuperPlus Capacity, excellent condition. $300. Call 412-384-2267. Medical & More. From $165.00 monthly. 800-971-7075. ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ 3 Western Saddles. Call for details. Also accessories. Call 724-3487685. -------- HEALTH/MEDICAL/FITNESS --------____________________________________________________ High Chair for Toddler, Restaurant Style, 28” high natural hardwood finHandicap Scooter – Excellent Condition. $450. 412-461-1222. ____________________________________________________ ish____________________________________________________ $25.00 Call 724-348-6994. 3-wheel scooter. New battery. A-1 condition! $400. 724-348-6250. Bunk Beds w/mattresses, never used, heavy duty oak finish $300 724____________________________________________________ Quickee – P-20 Electric Wheelchair. Very good shape. Brand new bat- 949-0801. ____________________________________________________ teries. Like new. Best offer. 724-258-4602. FREE! – Upright Piano. Union Township. You haul. For details, call 724____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Men's Health FDA Medical Vacuum pumps, testosterone, Viagra, 348-7557. Cialis. Free brochures. 619-294-7777. www.drjoelkaplan.com (discounts Ladder. 32ft Aluminum Extension. Heavy Duty with Side Hand Rails & Flat $180.00. 724-684-5531. available) ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Steps
Handicap Scooter – Excellent Condition. $450. 412-461-1222. ____________________________________________________ Church Pew. Solid Oak 6 ? ft. with Seat Cushion. Nice for your entry Way or Parlor. $125. 724-648-5531. ____________________________________________________ Stamp Album with Stamps. Large Starter Collection. All Countries Pre 1965. $50. 724-684-5531. ____________________________________________________ 5-piece black iron bedroom set. 4 poster canopy bed. Good condition. $200. 724-258-4232. ____________________________________________________ 3-wheel medical scooter. A-1 condition! 724-348-6250. ____________________________________________________ Garage Sale - Huge multi family garage sale October 9 and 10 in South Park Mobile Estates in Finleyville on Circle Dr. 8 a.m. til ?. Lots of items, something for everyone. ____________________________________________________ KITCHEN CABINETS Never installed. Absolutely beautiful. Solid wood and dovetailed. Cost $6,000. Sacrifice $1,650. Call 412-494-3143. ____________________________________________________ For Sale: Complete Surround Sound Stereo System and Cabinet: Onkyo Stereo Receiver, Dual Tape Deck and 6 CD Changer, 5 piece surround sound speakers including 3 piece Bose speakers with Subwoofer and 2 KLH speakers. Also included Oak cabinet with glass doors. Great Sound! $600 (724) 348-8028. ____________________________________________________ 19" Crosby Sofride English Saddle. Includes leathers, stirrups and girth. Excellent condition $1200 (724)348-8028. ____________________________________________________ Hammond Elegante Organ with internal Leslie Speakers. MINT condition. Everything works. Perfect for home or church. $3800 (724) 3488028. ____________________________________________________ RED SCHWINN ELECTRIC SCOOTER, BARELY USED, GREAT CONDITION $175. CHARGER INCLUDED. CALL 724-942-3929. ____________________________________________________ Running Boards Brand New - still in unopened box, Dee Zee, extruded aluminum, originally for 1988 GMC or Chevy pickup trucks, $200 firm. Phone: (724) 348-5797. ____________________________________________________ Ski Exercize Machine - Similar to Nordic Track, exercizes legs and arms for____________________________________________________ skiing, $100 firm, Phone (724) 348-5797. Various Baby Items for sale – Car Seats, stroller, walker, and many other items. All good condition. Call for information. 724-258-7205. ____________________________________________________ Plows – 3 bottom (4th removed) roll over style plows. Fair condition. Not used in several seasons. Includes free International corn planter in poor condition for parts if wanted. $600. 724-258-2332. ____________________________________________________ MTD Snowblower, good condition, 26”, 8 h.p. electronic start (needs repaired). Asking $450 firm. Call 412-831-8998. ____________________________________________________ Bike 16” boys Murray with training wheels and hand and coaster brakes. Mint condition – 2 years old – used only at grandma’s house - $30. 724348-6994. ____________________________________________________ Cargo Carrier for 1 1/4 inch receiver. Really nice, lightweight, hitch Hauler. About 5 feet long, and out of aluminum. First $50.00. 412-7805998 call or text! ____________________________________________________ Utility trailer, 5 x 10 with sides. In good condition. Have title and license. All____________________________________________________ steel construction. Asking $600. Call 724-348-8943. Electric Wheelchair. – Brand new. Used only 10-minutes! Cost $5,000. Will sacrifice for $1,800 or best offer. Call 724-258-6896. ____________________________________________________
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 77 CLASSIFIEDS For Sale: Many horse related items: saddle pads, show halters, bridles, bits and much more. Too many items to list. For a complete list of items send an email to: mimi_1919@yahoo.com - Please put “Horse Items” in the subject field of your e-mail. ____________________________________________________ Cemetery Plots. Jefferson Memorial Park - 4 adjacent lots in “The Garden of the Well” Lot 112A. $2500/all. Can divide. 724-348-5072. ____________________________________________________ Disk (farm), 5 ft. – 3 pt. hitch. $400. Call 724-348-5992. ____________________________________________________ Trailer (farm), dual wheels, titled. $500. Call 724-348-5992. ____________________________________________________ LAWNMOWERS! - Used Lawn Boys, Honda mowers, Snappers, All different types. 25 Lawn Boys, all 2-cycle. Great for landscaping. Self propelled and push. Taking trade-ins. Call 724-745-6489. ____________________________________________________ Carry all trailer, 4 by 6 foot, can carry 500 pounds, turn signals, fits in two inch hitch, needs no license. $250 firm. Call 412-831-8998. ____________________________________________________ BEDS - “PLUSH/PILLOWTOPS, ORTHOPEDIC AND MEMORY FOAM” FULL... $169. QUEEN...$189. TWIN & KING MATTRESS, ALL NEW. SEALED IN PLASTIC W/10 YR. WARRANTY DELIVERY AVAIL. IMMEDIATELY. CALL 412-787-9128. ____________________________________________________ KITCHEN CABINETS Never installed. Absolutely beautiful. Solid wood and dovetailed. Cost $6,000. Sacrifice $1,650. Call 412-494-3143. ____________________________________________________ $600 SIGNUP BONUS + FREE HD/DVR! $19.99 A MONTH. Call Dish Network Now 1-888-282-2892. ____________________________________________________ CALL MAL‘ N’MELS FOR CIGARETTES, Cigars & Tobacco. All Cheap, All the Time! Toll-Free 1-877-281-7305 Adults (18+) Only ____________________________________________________ FEEL SECURE! Push button help 24/7 with Medical Alarm System. Free Equipment & Shipping. Easy set-up • Nationwide. $29.95 monthly. Call 866-710-7580. ____________________________________________________ DISH NETWORK’S BEST OFFER EVER! Free HD/DVR $19.99/mo. For over 100 All digital Channels. Call Now And Receive $600 Signup Bonus! 1-888-282-2892. ____________________________________________________ DISCOUNT TOBACCO PRODUCTS DELIVERED. GET $5.00 OFF FIRST ORDER. Use Code QPNOV. www.tribaldiscounts.com. 1-888-889-9232. ____________________________________________________ MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS - CLARINET, FLUTE, VIOLIN, Trumpet, Trombone, Amplifier, Fender Guitar $70. ea. Cello, Upright Bass, Saxophone, French Horn, Drums $190. ea. Tuba, Baritone, Others. 1-516377-7907. ____________________________________________________ PORTABLE MIRACLE HEATER cuts heating bills 50%. Heats 1000 sq. ft. Factory Warranty. Money back guarantee. Retails $397, Limited time only $279. www.lowpricedheat.com 1-877-256-1364. ____________________________________________________ GET DISH with FREE Installation - $19.99/mo HBO & Showtime FREE Over 50 HD Channels FREE Lowest Prices - No Equipment to Buy! Call Now for____________________________________________________ full Details 1-877-287-7754. DISH Network. $19.99/mo, Why Pay More For TV? 100+ Channels. FREE 4-Room Install. FREE HD-DVR. Plus $600 Sign-up BONUS. Call Now! 1-888-430-9664. ____________________________________________________ GDC - SAVE NOW! $25.00 Gift Certs, ONLY $4!! Save At Thousands of Restaurants, Top Retailers, Movie Theatres, Hotels. Online Offer $29.95! WWW.GDCDISCOUNT.COM. Publication Code: 02. ____________________________________________________ GIGANTIC 72” X 100” MIRRORS, (15) sheets, $165/each. New, perfect condition. Free delivery (one or all). Installation available. Also, 48” x 100” (8), $115/each. 1-800-473-0619. ____________________________________________________ High Cost of Cable Got Your Down? GET DISH w/ FREE FREE FREE installation! Over 50 Free HD Channels! Lowest Prices! Call FREE for full details! 800-943-1346. ____________________________________________________ MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC - NASA VISCO MATTRESSES. WHOLESALE! T-$299; F-$349; Q-$399; K-$499; ADJUSTABLES - $799. FREE DELIVERY 25 YEAR WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP. 1-800287-5337. WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM. ____________________________________________________ STOP Paying Too Much for TV! Get Dish w/FREE install plans, FREE HBO & Showtime & FREE DVR upgrade. Call FREE for full details! 877-4793573. ____________________________________________________ BEDROOM 8-PIECE $975 NEW BOXED. ALL WOOD SLEIGH/MISSION WITH 10-YEAR WARRANTY. MATTRESS SET. HANDCRAFTED, DOVETAILED FURNITURE 412-494-7351. Will Deliver. ____________________________________________________ DISCOUNT TOBACCO PRODUCTS DELIVERED. GET $5.00 OFF FIRST ORDER. Use Code QPNOV. www.tribaldiscounts.com 1-888-889-9232. ____________________________________________________ GET DISH - FREE INSTALLATION - $19.99/mo HBO & Showtime FREE Over 50 HD Channels FREE Lowest Prices - No Equipment to Buy! Call Now for____________________________________________________ full Details - 877-238-8410.
www.unionfinley.com DISH TV. $19.99/mo., $600 Sign-up Bonus! FREE 4-Room Install. FREE -------- ITEMS WANTED --------HD-DVR! Call now. 1-800-915-9514. ____________________________________________________ WANTED – Guns and target scopes. Serious collector. Cash now. 412531-5977. ____________________________________________________ AIRLINE MECHANIC: Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call Aviation CLEAN FILL NEEDED IN THE FINLEYVILLE AREA 724-941-7833. ____________________________________________________ Institute of Maintenance. 866-453-6204. ____________________________________________________ BUYING OLD FURNITURE AND VARIOUS HOUSE CONTENTS. OLD GUITARS WANTED! Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch. 1930 - 1980. ONE ITEM OR ENTIRE ESTATE. CALL 724-255-2000 OR 724-941TOP DOLLAR PAID. Call toll free 1-866-433-8277. ____________________________________________________ 1827. Free Advice! We'll Help You Choose A Program or Degree To Get Your Career & Your Life on Track. Call Collegebound Network Today! 1-877-361WANTED ANTIQUES – Oriental Rugs, Paintings, Quilts, Crocks 0641. with Blue, Furniture, Lamps or anything OLD! Please call me. Jim ____________________________________________________ Gillespie at 412-979-7050 or home 724-348-6203. Reach over 30 million homes with one buy. Advertise in NANI for only per week! For information, visit www.naninetwork.com Wanted - Junk cars, trucks, etc., with or without title, all worth money. $2,795 ____________________________________________________ Also, local and long distance towing. Call 412-498-1622. **ALL Satellite Systems are not the same. HDTV programming under ____________________________________________________ WANTED: PINBALL MACHINE, ARCADE VIDEO GAME & coin operated $10 per month and FREE HD and DVR systems for new callers. CALL NOW items,ANY CONDITION, cash paid, semi-quick removal. 412-759-4826. E- 1-800-799-4935. ____________________________________________________ mail: ed@ataboy.com. ____________________________________________________ AIRLINE MECHANIC – Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA JUNK CARS WANTED! FREE Tow! C.T. Auto Recyclers. 724-348-7467. ____________________________________________________ approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance. WANTED: Used Stihl chain saws, used 2 stage snow blowers, Mantis tiller, CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance. 866-854-6156. ____________________________________________________ Rear tire tillers, Lawn Boy mowers, Honda mowers. Need not be running. ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, Pay cash! 724-745-6489. ____________________________________________________ *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer OLD GUITARS WANTED! Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch. 1930 - 1980. available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 TOP DOLLAR PAID. Call toll free 1-866-433-8277. ____________________________________________________ www.CenturaOnline.com. ____________________________________________________ **FREE Gold Guide! Gold-Up Over 300% Since 2001. Call MERIT FINANCIAL Today! 24 Years of Competitive Prices. Call 1-888- DIRECTV - $26 off/mo.! 150+Channels & Premium Movie Channels for ONLY $29.99/mo. FREE SHOWTIME for 3 mos. New customers only. Call 720-6007. ____________________________________________________ NOW 1-888-420-9478. ____________________________________________________ OLD GUITARS WANTED! Fender, Gibson, Gretsch, Martin, D’Angelico, Stromberg, Rickenbacker, and Mosrite. Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1930’s DIRECTV FREE MOVIES 3 MONTHS! Ask How! NO Equipment to Buy NO thru 1970’s.TOP CASH PAID! These brands only please. 1-800-401-0440. Start Costs! Free DVR/HD Upgrade! Other Packages Start $29.99/mo! ____________________________________________________ Details Call DirectStarTV 1-800-620-0058. ____________________________________________________ WANTED DIABETES TEST STRIPS - Any Kind/Any brand DIRECTV SAVE $26/MO FOR A YEAR! Ask How! NO Equipment to Buy Unexpired. Pay up to $16.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Call 1-713-395-1106 NO Start Costs! Free DVR/HD Upgrade! Other Packages Start $29.99/mo! or____________________________________________________ 1-713-343-3050 ext. 1. www.SellDiabeticstrips.com. Details Call DirectStarTV. 1-800-279-5698. ____________________________________________________ -------- MISCELLANEOUS --------AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance 1 Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care, daily Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing availcleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. able. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance. (888) 686-1704. ____________________________________________________ Hurry - only 2 stalls left. $420/month. (724) 348-8028. ____________________________________________________ DIRECTV’s Best Package FREE 5 Months! 265+ Channels + Movies Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. with NFL Sunday Ticket Order! FREE DVR/HD Upgrade! Other Packages Call: 724-825-7233. ____________________________________________________ from $29.99. Details Call DirectStarTV 1-800-279-5698. ____________________________________________________ * REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! * - Get a 4-room, all-digital satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting under $20. Free Digital EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer availVideo Recorders to new callers. So call now, 1-800-795-3579. ____________________________________________________ able. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-509-3308 PROFLOWERS - Christmas Décor, Flowers & Gifts Starting At $19.99. Go www.CenturaOnline.com. ____________________________________________________ To www.proflowers.com/sparkle To Get EXTRA 15% OFF Or Call 1- 866801-9482. ____________________________________________________ FREE DIRECTV’s Best Package 5 Months! 265+ Channels + Movies with Get Dish - FREE Installation - $19.99/mo. HBO & Showtime FREE - Over NFL Sunday Ticket Order! FREE DVR/HD Upgrade! Other packages from Details Call DirectStarTV. 1-800-620-0058. 50 HD Channels FREE. Lowest prices - No Equipment to buy! Call now for $29.99. ____________________________________________________ full____________________________________________________ details. 1-877-242-0976. FREE HD/DVR! + $600 SIGNUP BONUS. $19.99 A MONTH. Call Dish Now 1-888-282-2892. DIRECTV - $26 off/mo! 150+ Channels & Premium Movie Channels Network ____________________________________________________ ONLY $29.99/mo. FREE SHOWTIME - 3 mos. New customers only. 1-888- GET 5 Months FREE of DIRECTV! 265 + Channels + Movies with NFL 420-9472. ____________________________________________________ Sunday Ticket order! FREE HD/DVR upgrade! For Details Call NOW 1-888ACR METAL Roofing and Siding. Low Cost, Fast Delivery, Agricultural, 420-9478. DIRECTV Authorized Dealer. ____________________________________________________ Commercial, Residential, Pole Barn Packages, Trims, Fasteners, Reflective OLD GUITARS WANTED! Fender, Gibson, Gretsch, Martin, D’Angelico, Insulation, Door Track. Free Literature, 1-800-325-1247. ____________________________________________________ Stromberg, Rickenbacker, and Mosrite. Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1930’s FREE IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION! (For 30 Days) LIFELOCK. Call now! thru 1970’s.TOP CASH PAID! These brands only please. 1-800-401-0440. ____________________________________________________ Add 10% Off. Use Promo Code: Five Facts. Call 1-866-455-7831. ____________________________________________________ STEEL BUILDINGS: 5 only 16x20, 25x28, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Sell For Receive $1000 in Groceries! Real relief program helping people just like you! Pay only $4.90 for your grocery voucher. Use on your favorite brands! Balance Owed! Still Crated/Free Delivery! 1-800-462-7930 x223. ____________________________________________________ Consumer Advocate Response introductory price. 1-800-430-9507. ____________________________________________________ Get Dish - FREE Installation - $19.99/mo. HBO & Showtime FREE - Over 50 HD Channels FREE. Lowest prices - No Equipment to buy! Call now for Your Family’s Best Benefit…Safety! Let ADT help protect your family and get $100 Visa Gift Card! Hurry, offer ends soon. Call Now! 1-866full____________________________________________________ details. 1-877-554-2014. 444-9163. ____________________________________________________ ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from home. Medical, Business, Paralegal, Accounting, Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer avail- DISH TV. BEST OFFER! $19.99/Mo. 100+ Channels. 3-Months. FREE able. Financial aid if qualified. Call 800-494-3586 HBO & Showtime, FREE 4-Room Install. Plus Sign-Up BONUS! Call Now! 1877-373-7038. www.CenturaOnline.com. ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
-------- NOTICES --------LOST – Wedding Ring. Men’s. White Gold. Lost while driving along Rt. 88 near Mingo Church Road, Finleyville. Very sentimental and important. Reward offered. If found, please call 412-760-2291. ____________________________________________________ Calling all horse people: We are organizing a tack swap in Elizabeth, PA. If you are interested in being a vendor or attending the event, please send an email to mimi_1919@yahoo.com with 'tack swap' in the subject line. We will contact you with details. ____________________________________________________ Party Room Facility for Rent in CHARLEROI! * For ALL Occasions * Book NOW for the Holidays! Call for Details. 724-531-1175. ____________________________________________________
-------- PETS --------Calling all horse people: We are organizing a tack swap in Elizabeth, PA. If you are interested in being a vendor or attending the event, please send an email to mimi_1919@yahoo.com with 'tack swap' in the subject line. We will contact you with details. ____________________________________________________ Kittens need to be adopted from "mama cat". Call 724-348-0256. ____________________________________________________ For Sale: Many horse related items: saddle pads, show halters, bridles, bits and much more. Too many items to list. For a complete list of items send an email to mimi_1919@yahoo.com - Please put “Horse Items” in the subject field of your e-mail. ____________________________________________________ Horse Stalls available - private facility in Elizabeth, excellent care, daily cleaning and turn out, large indoor arena, outdoor and miles of trails. Hurry -____________________________________________________ only 2 stalls left. $420/month. (724) 348-8028. ANGELS FOR ANIMALS. Collecting Aluminum Cans for an on-going fundraiser. (Please no steel, no pie tins, and no aluminum foil.) Also selling Enjoy & Entertainment Books for $25.00 each. For pick up of cans or delivery of books, call Jessie @ 724-941-5737. ____________________________________________________
-------- REAL ESTATE --------Finleyville - One bedroom apartment, ranch style, no steps involved, equipped kitchen, large living room, plenty of closet space, energy-efficient, big backyard, good sun direction, parking space, near bus line, ideal for elderly. Rent $375 + utilities. Call 412-833-2089. Apartments For Rent: Library, PA - 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments. Near Library VFD. Starting at $425-$725 + Utilities & Security Deposit * No Pets • Near to Public Transportation. Call for more info.: 724-225-6814. Mobile home for sale. 2 bdrm trailer for sale, Route 88 bus line. Inside gentle pet acceptable. Ringgold School District. Will consider a “rent to own” program with first and last months rent down. Monthly trailer rent is $100 to $200 per month, at 0% interest. Mobile home park rent is $200 per month and includes garbage. HUD accepted. Call 724-258-9115. ____________________________________________________ Clairton: For sale by owner. 2 BD, brick home. Ranch. Nice, cozy, and ready to move in! 550 Third Street. $45,000 or best offer. 724-328-1766 for____________________________________________________ appt. Must sell. Mobile Home for Sale. 1992 Parkwood 14 X 66, 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, A/C, Appliances, Newer Roof, Pond & Shed. Asking 18K. Call 724-3177224. ____________________________________________________ One, Two Bedroom apartment, complete with appliances, laundry facility, etc. Secured locked building, quant and quite. Close to bus line. One bedroom partial furnished. Monongahela. Call Natalee Amati 724-2448579 or 724-258-3179. ____________________________________________________ Charleroi Sale or Lease - Renovated 3-Story Building. Commercial lease income. Also, turnkey bar/restaurant. Call: 724-531-1175. ____________________________________________________ Party Room Facility for Rent in CHARLEROI! * For ALL Occasions * Book NOW for the Holidays! Call for Details. 724-531-1175. ____________________________________________________ Finleyville - 3 bed 2 bath brick w/attached garage. Updated. $159,000. Call 724-258-6732. ____________________________________________________ FOR RENT - New Eagle – 1 bedroom apt. Appliances, Water, & Sewage included. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773. ____________________________________________________ FOR RENT – New Eagle. Mobile Home. Private lot. 3 BR, Central air. Newly remodeled. $475 + utilities and security deposit. Credit check. No Pets. 724-328-1766. ____________________________________________________
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www.unionfinley.com Mobile Home for Sale. 3 bedroom, Route 88 bus line. Inside gentle pet acceptable. Ringgold School District. Will consider a “Rent to Own” program with first and last months rent down. Monthly trailer rent is $100 to $200 per month, at 0% interest. Mobile Home Park rent is $200 per month and includes garbage. HUD accepted. Call 724-258-9115. ____________________________________________________ GARAGE DOORS New Eagle Property $20,900, 1/2 Acre, 30x30 foundation with sewer, WUENSTEL BROTHERS GARAGE DOOR gas, water lines, nice quiet neighborhood. 449 3rd. Ave. off Cliffton. Call COMPANY – Second Generation family owned. 814-648-1289. ____________________________________________________ Since 1977. Residential Replacement Monongahela – Very clean 2 bedroom, duplex. Nice, large, level yard.Two Specialists. 3526D Cliff Street, Finleyville. 724porches, off street parking. Close to restaurants and shopping. $490 per month + utilities. No pets. For more information: 724-344-4271. 348-7550. ____________________________________________________ ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mobile Home for Sale: 2 bedroom, South Park Mobile Estates - $4,000. GUTTERS Call 412-855-7208. ____________________________________________________ ZUBASIC BROS. HOME IMPROVEMENTS – MONONGAHELA - 2-1 bdr’s, 1st and 2nd Floor – Equipped Kitchen, New Seamless Gutters & Repairs 724-941Furniture, Laundry facility and Much more! On Bus Line. Call 724-2448579. 7833. ____________________________________________________ ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For rent - 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom mobile home in Brownsville. Location JEWELRY of property is 1113B Water Street. Inside gentle pet is acceptable with ownSOUTHLAND JEWELERS - GOLD = $$$$. Get ers approval. Has large fenced in yard and storage shed. $400 per month plus utilities. First and last months rent required down. Call 724-258-9115. Cash EVERY DAY for all Jewelry & Watches! Appraisal & Repairs done on site. ** FRI., FOR SALE – Investment Property; price reduced, 6 residential, 4 commercial units. Close to everything. 724-554-6534. DECEMBER 11 -- Antique & Estate Jewelry Sale ** CHRISTMAS SALE! New Eagle Main Street. Office Space. Formerly physicians office. Everything 50% - 80% OFF! Watch Batteries, 1200 sq. ft. Rent Negotiable. 724-554-6534 or 724-258-3773 2/$6.99 Rt. 51, Jefferson Hills (Next to TC Mobile Home ‘83, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, wood burner, covered porch. Mingo Customized) Park Est. $8,000.00. Call 724-348-4472. ____________________________________________________ 412-384-8400. 4 Acre Horse Pasture for Lease w/Sheds and Arena. $750/mo or 2 Acres _________________________________ $400/mo. Call 412-835-2560. ____________________________________________________ PIZZERIA Office Space For Rent – Finleyville. 1,300 square feet. Former site of NEW EAGLE BAKERY & PIZZERIA - Main Healthy Directions. $800 + Electric. 412-999-7163. ____________________________________________________ Street - New Eagle. 724-258-8110. Daily FOR RENT - Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and Specials; LOVE AT FIRST BITE! beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of PLUMBING home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; FRYE BROTHERS PLUMBING - Registered Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete Master Plumbers. Residential and Commercial. weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfront condorentals.com/ Paradise Resort.htm. For additional questions or to make a Locally Owned and Operated. Fully Insured and reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843-236-6623 and ask Certified. Ed Frye – (412) 841-6008, or Bob about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ____________________________________________________ Frye – (412) 600-7905. www.fryebrosplumb***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** OVER 400,000 properties nationwide. ing.com. Low down payment. Call now 800-250-2043. ____________________________________________________ ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– HOMES FROM $199/MO! 1-4 Bedrooms avail from $199/mo! For listings RESTAURANT call 800-401-3750. ____________________________________________________ THE KICKSTAND BAR & RESTAURANT 1 4 BD Homes from $176/mo! Move in 12/mo's, OR, apply your 12/mo's Open Daily 3 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Daily Specials; of____________________________________________________ rent as down payment! For listings 800-356-1434. Homemade Soups. 1100 Hayden Blvd. 51 COLORADO 40 acres $28,500! Beautiful valley land near mountains. South. 412-384-3080. Good road access. Hunting, fishing, farming and recreational area. $500 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– down. $300 monthly. Call Owner 806-376-8690 ____________________________________________________ GOOD TO GO RESTAURANT AND CATERING FORECLOSURES – OWN 20 ACRES OF LAND NOW! Near Booming El - Daily specials. "catering by the pan or by the Paso, Texas. NEVER BEEN EASIER! $0 Down, Take over $159/mo payment. pan or by the party.” 3532 Marion Avenue, Now $12,856. Was $16,900. No credit checks/owner financing. 1-800Finleyville. 724-348-8544. 755-8953. www.TexasLandForeclosures.net. ____________________________________________________ ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAINS, Warm Winters/Cool Summers E-Z finish SIDING/WINDOWS Log Cabin Shell with Acreage $99,900. Pre-Approved Bank Financing. Also ROOFING Mountain-Waterfront Land for sale 828-247-9966 Ext. 02. ____________________________________________________ MEREDITH HOME IMPROVEMENTS – 30 ABANDONED UPSTATE NY FARM. 10 acres - $26,900 Adjoins State Land, views, mowed fields, woods, apple trees, lots of deer! Terms! Call years in business. If you need vinyl siding, roofnow! 877-257-4425. ____________________________________________________ ing, windows or soffit and fascia done profesSTEEL BUILDINGS: 5 only 16x20, 25x28, 30x48, 40x52, 45x82. Sell For sionally, with no problems afterward and done Balance Owed! Still Crated/Free Delivery! 1-800-462-7930 x223. ____________________________________________________ at a reasonable price, we are the company to do it! We are so confident in your satisfaction that -------- SERVICES --------we require no money until the job is completed. Party Room Facility for Rent in CHARLEROI! * For ALL Occasions * www.MeredithHomeImprovements.com. Call Book NOW for the Holidays! Call for Details. 724-531-1175. ____________________________________________________ us today at 412-831-9991. GAETANO CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION - stamp/colored concrete on ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– sidewalks, driveways, patios and retaining walls. 412-475-0053. ____________________________________________________
LOCAL BUSINESSES, MERCHANTS AND SERVICES BAKERY NEW EAGLE BAKERY & PIZZERIA - 161 Main Street - New Eagle. 724-258-8110. Daily Specials; LOVE AT FIRST BITE!! –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BANQUET FACILITY/SOCIAL HALL FINLEYVILLE AMERICAN LEGION – Morrison-Ritchie Post 613. 3537 W. MorrisonRitchie Post 613. 3537 Washington Avenue, Finleyville. “We are dedicated to helping our veterans and our community.” Offering entertainment and a banquet room that accommodate 75 people. For more info, stop in and visit the lodge, or call 724-348-5608. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CATERING GOOD TO GO RESTAURANT AND CATERING - Daily specials. "catering by the pan or by the pan or by the party.” 3532 Marion Avenue, Finleyville. 724-348-8544. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
COMPUTERS COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724348-6837. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CONCRETE GAETANO CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION Stamp/colored concrete on sidewalks, driveways, patios and retaining walls. 412-4750053. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
DVD TRANSFER/ HOME MOVIES HOME MOVIE TRANSFERS AND DVD MONTAGE CREATIONS BY DEB CHEPLIC. 8mm & Super 8mm projector movies transferred to DVD! Frame by frame digital transfers, with amazing clarity. No hidden costs/set up fees. Add music and chapter menus. 724-2585336. http://web.me.com/dcheplic/. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
EXCAVATION EXCAVATION SERVICES - Bobcat, backhoe, dump truck, french drains, utility lines, gravel, grating, hauling, foundations and sewer Bobcat, backhoe, dump truck, french drains, utility lines, gravel, grating, hauling, foundations and sewer line work. Call Ernie at: 412-384-7337. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
———————————————————————————— December 2009 “JUST HEMS!” - Specializing in shortening slacks, pants and jeans. Call Diane Lucci at 724-348-6752. ____________________________________________________ DVD Transfer/Home Movies - Home Movie Transfers and DVD Montage Creations by Deb Cheplic. 8mm and Super 8mm projector movies transferred to DVD! Frame by frame digital transfers, with amazing clarity. No hidden costs/set up fees. Add music and chapter menus. 724-258-5336. http://web.me.com/dcheplic/ ____________________________________________________ Social Security Claims. 30+ years experience. No results = no fee. Email claimsadv@juno.com or call 412- 915-8890. ____________________________________________________ Bobcat with 2 Buckets FOR RENT! $200/day + delivery & pick-up. Call: 724-825-7233. ____________________________________________________ COMPUTER TUNE-UP - Computer running slow? Chances are you may have viruses or spyware loaded on your machine. Complete virus and spyware removal along with the latest Microsoft Updates. $60.00 per machine. 724-348-6837. ____________________________________________________ FOUNDATION REPAIR - Large local company specializing in bowed walls, sinking foundations, crawl space excavation, and BASEMENT WATERPROOFING. Lifetime, transferrable warranty. 1-800-343-2357. www.abetterchoiceinc.com (PA0AGHIC:377) ____________________________________________________ HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED? Contact Woodford Bros., Inc. for straightening, leveling, foundation, and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLDBARN/www.woodfordbros.com MDHIC #05-121-861 ____________________________________________________ DIVORCE IN ONE DAY and Marriage by Proxy. Guaranteed from $895. Fast, reliable service. No Court Appearance. 365 Boston Post Road #241, Sudbury, MA 01776 www.divorcefast.com 978-443-8387 ____________________________________________________
-------- TIMESHARES --------SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW!! Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash? Sell your unused timeshare today. No commissions or broker fees. Free consultation. www.sellatimeshare.com, 1-888-310-0115. ____________________________________________________ DISCOUNT TIMESHARES - SAVE 60%-80% OFF RETAIL!! Worldwide Locations! Call for Free InfoPack. 1-800-639-5319. www.holidaygroup.com/flier ____________________________________________________ SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW!!! Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash? Sell your unused timeshare today. No Commissions or Broker Fees. Free Consultation www.sellatimeshare.com. 1-877-494-8246. ____________________________________________________ SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW!!!! Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash? Sell your unused timeshare today. No Commissions or Broker Fees. Free Consultation. www.sellatimeshare.com 1-877-271-3414. ____________________________________________________ TIMESHARE OWNERS. Ready to sell? Start with a FREE market analysis & price report. Call Toll-Free 1-866-323-5671 or visit www.FreeResortReport.com Vacation Property Resellers. ____________________________________________________
------- VACATIONS --------Myrtle Beach – Oceanfront Condo Available! Spacious and beautifully furnished, this 2 bedroom condo (unit #1507) at the new “Paradise Resort” in Myrtle Beach will provide you with all the comforts of home. 2 Bedrooms + Sleeper sofa; 2 Bathrooms; Lazy River; Hot Tub; Indoor/Outdoor Pools; Exercise Room; Oceanfront Balcony. For complete weekly and seasonal pricing, visit the website - www.oceanfrontcondorentals.com/ ParadiseResort.htm. For additional questions or to make a reservation call Oceanfront Condo Rentals Inc. at 843-236-6623 and ask about Paradise Resort unit #1507. ____________________________________________________
December 2009 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Page 79 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER
Owner/Publisher Douglas E. Haniford
Published Monthly by Haniford Enterprises, LLC
Assignment Editor Krista Ramsey
Contact us:
Editorial Coordinator Judy Gramm
P.O. Box 103 Finleyville, PA 15332 Phone/Fax: (412) 249-8177 E-mail: news@unionfinley.com The Union-Finley Messenger is published during the last week of the month preceding the issue date. It is available FREE of charge at over 275 area locations throughout the South Hills and Mon Valley communities. Subscriptions are also available.
Contributing Writers Ken Askew, Karen Barnum, J.R. Brower, Jim Caldwell, Paul Chasko, Andrea Earnest, William Frankfort, Emily Grazulis, Alice Harris, Charlotte Hopkins, Mandy Withers-Kozlowski, Heather Latorre, Samantha Milton, Lisa Tomosky, Christen Stroh, Beth Stroud
Photography Marianne Kleppner Jeramie Kozlowski Lisa Saternos, Scott McCurdy Erika Banks Advertising Sales Lisa Tomosky - Manager Account Executives: Charmaine Nebash Tina Patterson Judi Robbins Renee Schoedel Art Director JMC Graphics adsjmcgraphics@aol.com (412) 835-5796
Editorial Policy The Union-Finley Messenger publishes community news free of charge. We welcome the submission of articles, news releases, community announcements, editorials and letters for publication. The Union Finley Messenger will accept information via telephone, e-mail, Fax, or U.S. mail. Articles submitted without the complete name, address and telephone number of the author will not be printed. All submissions are subject to editing for length, clarity and taste. Photographs will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
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For advertisinginformation, call (412) 249-8177 or e-mail news@unionfinley.com
Page 80 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– December 2009 UNION-FINLEY MESSENGER www.unionfinley.com
We share the same priorities. Orthopedics
As a retiree, you get a life without mandates. Now, 6:30 a.m. doesn’t require a shrill alarm. Lunch can last as long as you choose. And a 10:00 workout on a Tuesday morning? Why not? These years become golden because of their freedom, and suddenly, decades of schedules and rules get tossed out the window in favor of something far better. Life.
As a hospital, we know how range of motion can impact range of choice. That's why our orthopedic program offers top surgeons, progressive treatments, and everything from physical therapy to arthroscopic surgery to joint replacements. Because sometimes, the most effective, efficient recovery is what life is all about.
Together in community. monvalleyhospital.com