December 2010 - Allegheny West Magazine

Transcription

RIGHT: Gabrielle Prevade of Oakdale performs the lead
role of “Clara” in the Carnegie Performing Art Center’s
production of “The Nutcracker” at the Andrew Carnegie
Library & Music Hall this month. She is a sixth grade
student at West Allegheny Middle School. Gabrielle has
studied at CPAC since she was four years old. She is the
daughter of Cassandra (Sandy) and Alex Prevade.
Proud to Serve s
od
Our Neighborho
for the Past
12 Years
TO REACH US
“GOOD NEWS ALWAYS, MAILED & DELIVERED FREE, EVERY TIME”
Allegheny West Magazine - West Allegheny Edition, is an all positive, good news publication mailed free into the homes and businesses of
the West Allegheny School District communities of Findlay, North Fayette, Oakdale, Sturgeon, and McDonald to connect communities,
promote people, heighten awareness about the richness of the airport region, and build pride in the western suburbs of Allegheny County.
15 Walnut Street, Suite 101, Imperial, PA 15126
Phone: 724.695.3968
Fax: 724.695.2089
E-Mail: alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net
www.alleghenywestmagazine.com
West Allegheny Edition
VOL. 12, NO. 69, ISSUE 3
DECEMBER 2010
FEATURES
COLUMNS
36 Joey’s Lights
37 The 3/50 Project
06
08
09
25
27
49
50
53
54
56
58
62
65
69
Preserves Local Businesses
52 Light Up Magic
60 By Bike or Boots They Traveled
SPECIAL SECTIONS
13 West Allegheny School District
“WA Today” Newsletter
38 Annual “Shop the
Neighborhood Gift Guide”
ABOUT THE COVER
The West Allegheny community and its residents immerse
themselves in the sights and sounds of the holiday
season. Backdrop and top right: Christmas Light-Up in
Clinton coordinated by Lloyd and Patty Faux; Gabrielle
Prevade of Oakdale; Joey Falcioni of North Fayette.
LIGHT UP PHOTOS BY DAVE KNOER
70
Publisher’s Note
On the Horizon
ACTA Transportation
Around Your Town
Library News
Your House & Senate
Your Schools
Business Briefs
Groundwork
Sidelines
Fire Watch
Municipal Roundup
Chamber Link
Community
Connections
Personal Perspective
Merry Christmas from All of Us at
Allegheny West Magazine!
PUBLISHING TEAM
PUBLISHER AND EDITOR
Pat Jennette, APR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
G. Paul DeBor,
Dave Knoer, Christopher Rolinson
WRITERS
Kiley Brady, Kaitlin Busch,
Dick Glovier, Jessica Harman,
Heather Schiefer Murray
ADVERTISING SALES
Michele Shrader
WEBMASTER
www.ddswebdesign.com
FALL/WINTER INTERNS
Jocelyn Grecko, Shane Zysk
CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE
Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce
Findlay Township, North Fayette Township
Oakdale Borough, McDonald Borough, West Allegheny School
District, North Fayette Garden Club, North Fayette VFD,
Western Allegheny Community Library
Erma Dodd, Catherine Roberts
OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS
Jennette Communications Group also publishes the
Montour Edition of Allegheny West Magazine, and
the Moon Edition of Allegheny West Magazine.
MEMBER:
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BBB Torch
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Marketplace
Ethics
MORE INFO
Allegheny West Magazine-West Allegheny Edition is published in February, April, June, August, October, and December, six issues a year, by Jennette
Communications Group, 15 Walnut Street, Suite 101, Imperial PA 15126. Mailed and distributed free to residents and businesses in Findlay, North Fayette,
Oakdale, Sturgeon, a portion of McDonald, and adjacent areas. Extra copies available at municipal offices, schools, libraries, stores, advertisers, hotels, and
businesses. Available by mail subscription for $12 annually. Story ideas welcomed. Community events and announcements from non-profit groups must be
received by the 15th of the month prior to publishing date. Announcements are limited to 30 words and must include a contact phone number.
Reproduction of any artwork, photographs, or copy prepared by Allegheny West Magazine is strictly prohibited without written consent of Jennette
Communications Group. Copyright 1999 Allegheny West Magazine. All rights reserved. Views and opinions expressed by contributors and/or advertisers are
the responsibility of the contributors and not those of the publisher of Allegheny West Magazine.
The parish of St. Columbkille was established by Most Holy Rev. Richard
Phelan, Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. The mission of Holy Trinity in
Moon Run was attached to the parish until 1944. The first parish purchase
of land was two acres to be used for a parish cemetery. It cost $350. In
1912, for $300, one-fifth of an acre was purchased from the coal
company for the parish house. (from Celebrating Our Past, Present and Future, St.
Columbkille Church)
Registered with Dun &
Bradstreet
WE PR
OUDL
SUPPORTT:
PROUDL
OUDLYY SPONSOR AND SUPPOR
The Western Allegheny Community Library Capital Building
Campaign and the Annual Christmas Drive-Through Light-Up
Display in Clinton Park
Allegheny West Magazine partners with Knepper
Press in Clinton to print its magazines. Knepper
Press purchases wind energy credits to offset 100%
of its electricity usage, energy which is used to print
our magazines. We are also committed to recycling
our used and leftover products by sending them to
Shared Acres, a Community Supported Agriculture
(CSA) program in Findlay Township, of which we are a member.
We encourage our readers to be responsible and dispose of this
magazine when finished enjoying it. Consider passing it along to
someone else, or placing it in your neighborhood recycling bins. Thank
you in advance for doing your part for our earth.
December 2010
Allegheny West Magazine
3
OUR
Advertisers
As with every issue, your community businesses are the reason for the publication of Allegheny West Magazine. Please support these
businesses. Their support allows us to mail this magazine, free, into the households of Findlay, North Fayette, Oakdale, Sturgeon, and
portions of McDonald as a community service.
A Door to Memories, p. 10, (724) 630-1212, www.adoortomemories.com
Allegheny West Eye Care, p. 11, (724) 695-3371, www.alleghenywesteyecare.com
All State Insurance-Jeff Myers , p. 43, 412.787.0710
Aniko’s , p. 41, 412.788.4005, www.anikosspa.net
Archer’s Edge, p. 47, 412.489.5670, www.thearchersedge.com
Aunt Penny’s Pet Sitting , p. 38, 724.515.7790, www.myauntpenny.com
Avon, the Premiere Store , p. 39, 412.489.6440
Bob’s Diner, p. 66, (412) 695-7400
Business Legal, p. 10, (724) 693-0588, www.businesslegal.net
Carol Leone, Inc., p. 6, (412) 262-1638, www.carolleones.com
Bocktown Beer & Grill , p. 43, 412.788.2333, www.bocktown.com
Cafe Chocholade , p. 41, 412.788.4041, www.cafechocholade.net
Carn. Perf. Arts Ctr. , p.
38, 412.279.8887,
www.car negieperfor minga r tscenter.com
Carousel Kennel , p. 42, 724.683.0794, www.carouselkennel.com
Center for Organ Recovery (CORE), p. 67, 888.DONORS.7, www.core.org
Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation , p. 43, 412.220.7800, www.ccpc.ws
Clearview FCU, ins.bk.cov., 800.926.0003, www.clearviewfcu.org
Clearview Stables, p. 66, (724) 693-9686, www.clearviewstablesinc.com
Clinton Wesleyan Church, p. 24, (724) 695-7076, www.clintonwesleyan.org
Cornerstone at Tonidale , p. 35, 412.787.1125, www.cornerstoneattonidale.com
Covenant Family Church, p. 67, (724) 263-7147, www.covfamchurch.org
Danielle Thomas Massage, p. 38 (412) 519-4566, www.ddtmassage.com
Davey Tree, p. 67, (724) 746-8852, www.davey.com
DDS Web Design, p. 48, (412) 965-0688, www.ddswebdesign.com
DiSanti, Dr. Judy, D.M.D., p. 67, (412) 264-6229, www.coraopolisdentist.com
Eagle Medical Supplies , p. 67, 724.218.1051, www.pittmedicalsupply.com
Edible Arrangements , p. 45, 412.489.6234, www.ediblearrangements.com
Emily Davis Photography , p. 44, 724.561.8431, www.emilydavispor traits.com
Emmert Dental, p. 46, 712.787.5050, www.emmertdental.com
Energy Guided Healing, p. 33, 412.980.0900, www.energyguidedhealing.com
Enlow Station, p. 11, 724.695.8181
Eyetique , p. 7, 1.800.422.5320, www.eyetique.com
Family Chiropractic Ctr., p. 9, (412) 787-3320, www.familychiropracticcenters.biz
Findlay Township, ins.bk.cov., (724) 695-0500, www.findlay.pa.us
First Steps Pediatrics, p. 54, (412) 788-1999, www.fspkids.com
Fitness for Life, p. 25, (724) 695-2239, www.mkfitness4life.com
Floral Magic, p. 40, 412.787.0380, www.floralmagic.net
Frametech Construction, p. 33, 724.849.1512
Freedom Fellowship of Pgh., p. 26, (412)787-2393, www.ffop.org
Gabriel Pain & Spine Ctr., p. 11, (412) 490-0400, www.gabrielpainandspine.com
Goosecreek Gardens, p. 45, 412.841.0478, www.goosecreekgardens.com
Grtr. Pgh. Jt. & Muscle Ctr . , p. 44, 412.444.4455, www.gpjmc.com
Heritage Valley Health System, bk. cover, 877.771.4847, www.heritagevalley.org
Heritage Valley Healthcare, p. 11, (724) 695-2411, www.heritagevalley.org
Hozak’ s , p. 39, 724.899.2400, www.hozakfarms.com
Imperial Chiropractic, p. 39, 724.695.0788
Imperial Tax & Accounting, p. 23, (724) 695-7354
Janoski’s Farm & Greenhouse, p. 44. 49, (724) 899-3438, www.janoskis.com
JTM Tax Services, p. 66, 412.480.2446
Kavic Winery, p. 46, 412.279.9463, www.kavicwinery.net
Kovach Body Shop, p. 66, (724) 926-8706
LaStone Therapy by Michelle, p. 66, (412) 809-9809
Lazarowicz & Associates, p. 30, (412) 299-7390
Liechti, Fred E., JD, CPA, p. 66, (412) 787-5280
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December 2010
Luther Dentistry, p. 30, (412) 788-6300, www.pittsburghlaserdentist.com
Mall at Robinson , p. 42, 412.788.0816, www.shoprobinsonmall.com
Manpasand Restaurant, p. 29, (412) 787-0713, www.manpasands.com
Medical Group Robinson, p. 5, (412) 490-2500, www.medicalgrouprobinson.com
Meyers, Tom Plumbing, p. 12, (724) 693-2880
Montour Dental, Dr. Picciano, p. 23, (412) 787-3366, www.montourdental.com
Montours Presbyterian Church, p. 26, (412) 787-1050
Moody Funeral Home, p. 25, (724) 695-0411
Movement Studio, p. 47, 412.401.9052, www.movementstudiopittsburgh.com
MTO Clean, p. 40, (412) 809-9300, http://allegheny.mtoclean.com
My Laundromat, p. 39, (724) 227-0513
Naughton’s Tree Service, p. 66, (412) 331-5952, www.naughtonstreeservice.com
North Fayette VFD, p. 39, 412.787.2883, www.northfayettevfd.org
North Fayette Twp. (Recycling), p. 55, 412.788.4888, www.north-fayette.com
Oakdale Foot & Ankle Center, p. 29, (412) 787-8380, www.oakdalepodiatrist.com
Oakdale U.P. Church, p. 24, (724) 693-8950
PA Fitness West, p. 6, (412) 787-1518, www.pafitnesswest.com
Pkwy. West Career & Tech. Ctr., p. 50, (412) 923-1772, www.parkwaywest.org
Paws Here Awhile Pet Resort, p. 45, 724.573.4665, www.PawsHereAwhile.com
Pgh. Comfort Tech, p. 49, (412) 788-8654, www.pittsburghcomforttech.com
Pgh. Airport Area Chbr. of Commerce, p. 64, (412) 264-6270, www.paacc.com
Pgh. Technical Institute, ins.fr.cov., 1.800.784.9675, www.pti.edu
Play Academy, p. 28, (412) 299-0616, www.play-academy.org
Polidor Family Dentistry, p. 29, (724) 695-8447
Pustover Financial Services, p. 8, (724) 695-8885
Robinson Chiropractic, p. 38, (412) 706.7129, www.myrobinsonchiropractic.com
Robinson Self Storage, p. 23, (412) 809-0900, www.robinsonstorage.com
Rohm Dental Offices, p. 66, (724) 695-2100, www.drjohnrohm.com
Santiago Distributing, p. 47, 724.695.7289
Self Storage of North Fayette, p. 51, (724) 695-8875
Selma’s BBQ , p. 43, 412.329.7003, www.selmasbbq.com
Sleep Wellness Center, p. 44, (412) 264-4611, www.sleepwellnesscenter.org
Smokestack, The, 412.758.5973, www.TheSmokeStackPgh.com
St. Johnsbury Candles , p. 42, 724.695.7008, www.sjperfectscents.com
StonePeppers Grill , p. 41, 412.788.0201, http://stonepeppers.com
Suzanne Givi Piano, p. 67, 412.787.9879
Thomas Studio of Dance, p. 25, (412) 787-7686, www.thomasdance.com
Thomas-Little Fun. Svcs., p. 28, (724) 926-2800, www.thomas-littlefuneralservice.com
Today’s Hair, p. 28, (724) 695-0478
Tipperary Farm , p. 31, 724.926.1700, www.tipperaryfarm.com
Trello Chocolates , p. 41, 1.800.222.6372, www.trellochocolates.com
Up in Arms Tattoo, p. 67, (724) 695-1313, www.upinarmstattoo.com
Valley Presbyterian Church, p. 24, (724) 695-0300, www.valleychurchweb.com
Volant Mill Winery, p. 6, (724) 899-3438, www.volantmillwinery.com
West Allegheny Aqua Club, p. 8, 56, 412.608.4583, www.waswim.org
Wharton-Herrick Funeral Home, p. 12, (724) 695-7332
Willows, The, ins.fr.cov., 1.888.219.4105, www.integracare.com
Ya Fei Restaurant , p. 30, 412.788.9388, www.yafeirestaurant.com
December 2010
5
PUBLISHER’S
Note
BEING THANKFUL FOR THE
GOODNESS IN OUR NEIGHBORS
Despite a world full of depressing news, with
the economy down and unemployment up,
putting together yet another issue of this magazine for you, our neighbors and readers, reaffirms
for me the sincere goodness in people. We’ve been
sharing good news of your neighborhood for 12
years, yet it never ceases to amaze me how much
positive news there is to share.
There is a buzz going on at the Hyatt - Pittsburgh International Airport, where Moon resident
and executive hotel chef, Chris Koegel and his
team assembled one of the largest gingerbread houses ever as part of the
hotel’s month-long effort to bring awareness to autism. The hotel has
teamed up with the Autism Center of Pittsburgh.
Lloyd and Patty Faux, once again, with their small but mighty group
of volunteers, have transformed Clinton Park in Findlay Township into a
one-mile drive through Christmas wonderland.
We share news of student achievers and others in the community
doing so many good deeds for their neighbors in need as this holiday
season approaches.
I don’t know about you, but when I finish putting together all of this
good news, I am comforted by knowing that we have a great community
full of wonderful and generous people.
Keep the good news coming! Thank you for everything!
And, being the good news people that we are, we are happy to remind
you that our new Web site is up: www.alleghenywestmagazine.com.
Take a peek and tell us what you think! We will continue to add to it
over time with good news and information for you.
Pat Jennette, Publisher & Editor
feedback. . .
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My Laundromat
I’d like to commend you on the newest issue of Allegheny West
Magazine. It was informative, attractive and interesting. Keep up
the good work!! -- Linda Pastin, Crescent
6
December 2010
December 2010
7
on the horizon
West Hills Symphonic Band concert
season’s upcoming series at West
Allegheny High School: Sunday, December
12, 3 p.m., Gala Holiday Concert featuring
local choirs and festive favorites; Sunday,
March 27, 3 p.m., Spring Concert with Music
of the Masters and Broadway Gems;
Sunday, May 15, 3 p.m., Swing into Summer
with the Best of the Great American
Songbook. The WHSB will once again
perform outreach concerts for many other
local events. Organizations interested in
hosting an outreach concert, contact
Principal Conductor/Music Director Clem
Rolin, (412) 788-4713.
First Place 4 Health, a 12-week Christcentered weight-loss and healthy living
program, begins at Crossroads Church in
North Fayette again on Tuesdays, January
11, 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. (childcare provided).
Wednesdays, January 12, 5 to 6:15 p.m., or
Thursdays, January 13, 5:45 to 7 p.m. Initial
session fee is $110 for materials. Call
(412) 494-9999.
New 4-H Club to Start in West Allegheny
A new 4-H group is organizing in the West Allegheny area. It has been some time since a 4-H
group has operated in this area of Allegheny County. Manely Horses is a new 4-H group devoted
mostly to the study and enjoyment of horses. It is open to anyone ages 8-18 that loves horses and
wants to learn more about them. Horse ownership is not required. The first organizational meeting
will be held at Hebron Church, Route 30 in Clinton on Thursday, January 6, 2011 at 7 p.m. For more
information, contact Michelle Wilson, (724) 899-3403 or by e-mail: mwilson4@zoominternet.net.
Enrollment is limited to the first 15 students.
Winter Events at The ROCK in Oakdale
The ROCK, Youth & Family Center After School Program in Oakdale is open from 3 to 4 p.m. for
Homework Hour and 4 to 7 p.m. for Open ROCK, Monday through Thursday. Come to Family
Night Saturdays, 7 to 9 p.m. Season memberships are $15/child or $30/family. (724) 693-2777,
www.rockoakdale.org.
100th Anniversary of Scouting Boy Scout
Troop 248 Alumni Celebration
Calling all Alumni members of Boy Scout
Troop 248 to join in an alumni celebration at
Oakdale Community Center, Saturday,
February 12, 2011, between 2 and 4 p.m.,
(724) 693-0549 or visit the Web site,
www.Oakdaletroop248.org.
SNPJ Lodge 106, Imperial, every Saturday
during the college football season, offers
half-price pizza, whole wings, and all you
can eat spaghetti dinners (dine-in only) for
$8 from 2 to 6 p.m. The lodge will hold its
New Year’s Eve Party in the clubroom. Call
(724) 695-1411.
8
December 2010
Send a bit of “home” to someone you know!
We Do Gift Certificates!
Send a Holiday Gift Subscription of Allegheny West Magazine for that
out-of-town relative,
college student, or someone who has moved away. Subscriptions are
just $12 per year for six issues!
CALL: (724) 695-3968 or e-mail: alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net.
COMING UP IN NORTH FAYETTE . . .
Mommy and Me, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $2.
Chess for Kids, Mondays, 4:45 p.m.
Exercise classes at the Community Center include Line Dancing, Mondays,
9:30 a.m.; Silver Sneakers, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays,
10:30 a.m.; Zumba, Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.; Yoga, Tuesday and
Thursday, 11:15 a.m., Thursday, 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.; and Interval
Circuit, Tuesdays, 5:30 to 6:30 pm.
Silver Sneakers Splash at the Donaldson Elementary School pool, Tuesdays and
Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., and Water Walking, Monday through Thursday, 6 to 8 p.m.
The gym is open every morning from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. for people to walk and
stay out of the colder weather.
Senior Citizen Luncheons will be held on Thursday, December 9 and January 27 at
the North Fayette Community Center starting at 11 a.m. Cost is $3 for North
Fayette Township residents and $4 for non-residents for the holiday lunches and
$2 for residents and $3 for non-residents for all the regular lunches.
Community Center Rentals are available also for the gym and community room
starting at $50 for two hours.
The P.A.L.S. program is running basketball clinics for children with special needs
on Friday nights from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Community Center gym. P.A.L.S. is also
hosting a Christmas party on Friday, December 10 from 6 to 7 p.m., also at the
gym. These events are free.
On December 11, children can participate in the children’s library Christmas
Party at 2 p.m.
For more information on any of these programs, to register, or to get on the
Senior Citizen mailing list, contact North Fayette Parks and Recreation at
(412) 788-4888, ext. 118, (724) 693-3118, or e-mail rbrozovich@northfayette.com.
Become a friend of North Fayette Parks and Recreation on Facebook.
COMING UP IN FINDLAY . . .
Findlay Township is offering a preventive health event. Life Line Screening, the
nation’s leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will host its
affordable, non-invasive, painless health screenings on Monday, January 31, 2011,
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Activity Center, 310 Main Street, Imperial. Five screenings will be
offered that scan for potential health problems related to: blocked arteries, abdominal
aortic aneurysms, hardening of the arteries in the legs, atrial fibrillation or irregular heart
beat, and a bone density screening; for men and women. Call 1-888-653-6441, or visit
www.lifelinescreening.com, for more information or to pre-register.
Those Snow Boots
Were Made for
Walkin’
Keep up your walking from
the 2010 Ready, Set, Walk!
Challenge and jumpstart 2011
with the See a Smaller Shadow
Winter Walk Challenge
sponsored by the Airport
Corridor Transportation
Association (ACTA) and the
Oakland Transportation
Management Association
(OTMA). Register at www.walkchallenge.org and start recording
steps on January 1, 2011. Steps
will be recorded for four weeks
and the top walker will be
announced on February 2, 2011
– Groundhog Day. Participants
who log their steps will be
eligible for weekly prizes with the top walker in the
program receiving a grand prize valued at $300.
Contact ACTA at (412) 809-3508 with questions.
When it’s all said and done, we hope you are well on
your way to seeing a smaller shadow!
Robinson Plaza Two, Rt. 60 & Park Manor Dr.
Suite 420, Pittsburgh PA 15205
(412) 809-3505, Fax: (412) 809-3509,
www.acta-pgh.org
helping others
Let us know about a project or
event that helps others. We will
post it here. These are always free
listings. (724) 695-3968 or e-mail:
alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net
December 2010
9
on the horizon
News from the
“Drop 10 in 10 Program” weight management program begins Wednesdays, January 5
through March 9. Cost is $18 for Highmark members. Participants enrolling in the Drop 10 in
10 program will be given a free ten-week facility membership to the Western Area YMCA.
The YMCA will host a “Holiday Dek Hockey Classic” on January 2 for hockey enthusiasts
16 years old and up. Play Dek Hockey outside on the Dek Hockey Rink. All registered
participants will receive a t-shirt, be placed on a team, and given a game time upon registration. Cost is $20 in advance/ $25 at the door; walk-ins welcomed. Games start at 10 a.m.
and will be played every hour on the hour. All proceeds go to the Youth Sports Program. For
more information contact, Steve Fox at (412) 787-9622 or sfox@ymcapgh.org
Bayer Corporation, Pittsburgh Cares, United Way of Allegheny County, and the Western
Area YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh joined together on a project to support and strengthen
youth development. As part of the collaboration, 20 Bayer employees volunteered at the
YMCA through United Way’s “Day of Caring” to renovate the Dek Hockey Rink at the
Western Area YMCA.
Opened in 1987, the Western Area YMCA Dek Hockey Arena has been a place for
generations of children to play the game of hockey. This project will ensure the Youth
Junior Penguins Dek Hockey program at the Western Area YMCA for many years and
generations to come.
Beginning in January, 2011, the Western Area YMCA is adding new group exercise
offerings. The new classes will include Zumba Gold, Tai Chi, 15 Minute Extreme Abs
Workout, Strength on the Ball, Beginner Pilates, Tennis Fit, and Family Self Defense. Also still
being offering will be prior favorites such as Kettlebell, Power Up, Boot Camp, and 20/20/20.
For information about any of these programs, call the YMCA at (412) 787-9622.
Come to Christmas at the ROCK
Oakdale United Presbyterian Church
presents “Christmas at the ROCK” on
Saturday, December 11. The West
Allegheny Show Choir performs at 5 p.m.,
followed by a free soup and sandwich
supper at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., the Oakdale
U.P. Church will present the Christmas Play,
“Rose of Bethlehem.”
The ROCK Family and Youth Center is
located in the former Good Shepherd
Church in downtown Oakdale. Call (724)
693-2777 for information.
also coming up around the area
Want a new challenge?? Climb up 37 floors of Pittsburgh’s Gulf Tower to promote lung
health and fund lung disease research! The American Lung Association is hosting its
annual Fight for Air Climb on Saturday, March 19, 2011. Event details, registration, and
sponsorship opportunities are available at www.lunginfo.org/pittclimb or contact Tiffany
at (724) 933-6180 ext. 227.
Wings Over Pittsburgh has announced its dates for the 2011 Air Show. Next year’s
show will be held September 10 and 11, 2011. The show’s featured performers will be
announced after the International Council of Air Shows Convention in December.
The Penn State Beaver Office of Continuing Education is offering a Sustainable
Landscape Technology Certificate, a six-course program that begins in January. The
program will also be available at Penn State Fayette and the Penn State Center-Pittsburgh.
The first two courses will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., January 11 through March 31.
A class in Horticultural Science will be held on Tuesdays and a course in Herbaceous
Perennial and Annual Identification will be held on Thursdays. The four remaining courses
will be offered October through December 2011 and January through March 2012. The
curriculum will emphasize sustainable techniques, including integrated pest management
and environmental weed management, with a focus on native plants. This certificate
program is designed for beginning landscapers, established landscape contractors, and
those who work or wish to work in the green industry. For information, call (724) 7733816.
10
December 2010
We Have Gift Certificates
December 2010
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Legislators’ Senior Expo a Hit
ABOVE: Each year State Senator John Pippy and State Representative Mark Mustio host a Senior Expo in their
district so that residents either nearing retirement age or older can visit dozens of local representatives. These
representatives provide valuable information on such topics as healthcare, senior housing, taxes, safety, and
more. This year’s Senior Expo was held at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Moon Township. Top: Senator Pippy, left,
and Representative Mustio, right, with a local resident; center, left to right: Gary and Mary Lou Buell; Senator
Pippy greets a senior resident.
Chamber Recognizes Publisher for Award
ABOVE: Members of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors
presented a certificate of recognition to Pat Jennette, front, center, for winning the national
Award for Publication Excellence (APEX) this year. Pat is the owner and publisher of Allegheny
West Magazine, and a long-time member of the chamber’s all-volunteer Ambassadors group.
NON-PROFIT GROUPS!
We offer a significant discount off of advertising rates (call for details).
It’s one way we help you get your message out to the entire community
affordably! CALL: 724.695.3968
or e-mail: alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net.
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December 2010
NEW! 24-Hour Kiosk Machine, around-the-clock access to set up a lease, make payments, access a site
December 2010
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Be
Blessed
This
Christmas
Season
and
Always
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December 2010
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BUSINESS BRIEFS
Clearview Partners Again with
Pitt Basketball for Juvenile Diabetes
Continuing its support and involvement in the Southwestern Pennsylvania
community, Clearview® Federal Credit Union is proud to announce its
continued sponsorship with the men’s basketball team at the University of
Pittsburgh throughout their 2010 – 2011 season. Clearview is proud to
partner with the Pitt Panthers once again to offer the special “Points for
Pediatrics” program. Through this program, Clearview will make a $40
donation for each three-point basket made by a Pitt player during a Pitt
Panthers men’s basketball game. All proceeds will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes
Research Foundation (JDRF).
The Prima Learning Center LLC is Midland’s new state-licensed child care
facility for age 4 kindergarten classes, infant and toddler child care, preschool and after-school programs.
Parents of small children who are considering enrollment are welcome to call
(724) 643-8184.
Prima houses the age 4 kindergarten school programs of Midland Borough
School District and Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School, both of which
were formerly housed at Neel Elementary.
The House of Martial Arts Karate Academy in Oakdale once again held
its “Rock for Food” on December 5 at the Oakdale Community Center to raise
money and food donations for the West Allegheny Food Pantry. Participants
took part in owner Gino Bovo’s original rock and roll workout routine, all the
while raising donations for the local food pantry.
Magazine & School District Partner
to Improve Coverage and Costs
The West Allegheny School District is piloting a change for its quarterly
community newsletter WA TODAY effective December 2010. Rather than
producing and distributing its own 16-page January issue, the district has
entered into a partnership with Allegheny West Magazine for a ten-page
insert of school news in both the magazine’s December 2010 and February
2011 issues.
Currently the district produces and distributes a 16-page newsletter four
times each year in October, January, April, and July. The district believes that
the school/business partnership will be a cost effective solution for
improving the quality of the publication, increasing circulation, and
stimulating reader interest.
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Magazine: (724) 695-3968.
December 2010
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Church of the Living Christ - December 19, Children’s
Musical, 10:30 a.m.; December 31, New Year’s Eve Celebration,
9 a.m. to midnight, (724) 695-7188
Church of the Nazarene - December 11, Christmas Dinner,
5 to 7 p.m., Findlay Activity Center; December 12, showing of the
movie, “The Nativity, 6 p.m. at the church; December 19,
Christmas program, 10:30 a.m.; December 22, Candlelight
Service, 7 p.m.; December 31, New Year’s Eve Candlelight
Services, 10 p.m. to midnight, (724) 947-9223
Clinton United Presbyterian Church - Christmas Eve,
with [open] Holy Communion @ 7 p.m. @ First UMC of McDonald
Oakdale United Presbyterian Church - Christmas Eve,
December 24, 7:30 p.m. candlelight Service of Lessons and carols
with communion, (724) 693-8950
Resurrection Lutheran Church - 7600 Steubenville Pike,
December 24, Cantata “Behold Emmanuel,” 7 p.m.; Sunday,
December 26, Festival of Songs, 11 a.m., (724) 695-7993
Oakdale, PA 15071, December 24th at 9 p.m., Christmas Eve
Candlelight Service with Holy Communion, December 26th at 9
a.m., Worship and Hymn Sing, (412) 788-4513
Clinton Wesleyan Church -
St. Columbkille Church - Christmas Eve: December 24,
December 12, children’s play,
“A Shepherd’s Faith,” 6 p.m.; December 18, Christmas Concert
featuring “Unto Him,” 7 p.m.; December 24, Christmas Eve
Candlelight Service, 7 p.m., (724) 695-7076
Covenant Family Church - December 23 Christmas Service,
7 p.m. at Springhill Suites, the Pointe at North Fayette, (724) 2637147
Crossroads Church - Oakdale Campus - 1000 Crossroads
Drive, Thursday, December 23 - 5:30 and 7 p.m., Friday, December
24 - 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 8 p.m., and 11 p.m., (412)
494-9999
Hebron Church - December 19, Children’s Program, 11 a.m.
and Christmas Caroling, 5 p.m. for all; Christmas Eve, December
24, 6:30 p.m. Candlelight Service, (724) 899-2276
Montours Presbyterian Church - Sunday, December 19,
Christmas Pageant, 11 a.m.; December 24, Christmas Eve,
Candlelight Service with Communion, 7 p.m., (4121) 787-1050
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Noblestown United Methodist Church, Federal
United Methodist Church, and First United Methodist Church of McDonald - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
December 2010
4 p.m. (Children’s Mass), 6:30 p.m., 10 p.m.; Christmas Day:
December 25, 8 a.m., 11 a.m., (724) 695-7325
The Bible Chapel in Robinson - PTI Campus, 1111 McKee
Road, Oakdale, Christmas Eve, December 24, 6:30 p.m.
(724) 941-8990
West Ridge Christian Community Church - Christmas
Celebration Service, December 19, 10 a.m.; Christmas Eve
Celebration & Candlelight Service, December 24, 6 p.m.; West
Ridge will present the Christmas production, “Love Has Come” at
both the Sunday and Christmas Eve Service, as well as the
traditional candlelight portion of the service on Christmas Eve,
(724) 695-7500
Valley Church -
Advent Adventure, December 8 and 15, 6-8
p.m., family-oriented evening program of crafts, activities, and more
with free dinner, open to the public; December 12, Christmas Drama
presentation, “The Party,” 10:30 a.m.; December 24, Christmas Eve
Candlelight Service with Communion, 7 p.m.; No Services Christmas
Day; Sunday, December 26, Regular Service, 10:30 a.m.; Christmas
Eve childcare available, (724) 695-0300
libr
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BOOK COOKS
Calling all young chefs! Join us at the library as we
discover how “scrumptious” learning can be! We’ll
share stories and tasty treats from some of our
favorite books! Come hungry…for food and fun!
Children ages 3-5, Friday, December 17 at 11 a.m.,
or children grades K-5, Wednesday, December 15,
at 4:45 p.m.
Celebrating 20 Years
MOVIE MADNESS
She’s back! Join us for some movie madness after
your hectic holiday! Popcorn’s on us! For kids ages
3 and up, Tuesday, December 28, 11 a.m.
TODDLER TALES
For children ages 2 and 3 with a parent or
caregiver. Interact with your toddler to nurture a
love of books. Learn letters, sounds, and new words.
Be active with music and movement. Mondays,
11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m., through December 13
PICTURED: On November 9 WAFEL
(Western Allegheny Friends to Enhance
the Library) sponsored a 20th birthday
party at the Western Allegheny Community Library and invited the community.
There were balloons, cake, cupcakes,
coffee, bookmarks, and a free raffle for
all guests. Dana Longstreth won the gift
basket. If interested in becoming a friend
of the library, stop by the circulation desk
at the library.
BODIES IN MOTION
Preschoolers ages 2 and up are invited to join us as
we wiggle, giggle, move and groove! We’ll have
stories, music, dancing….even parachuting! So put
on your dancing shoes and head to the library for
some super silly fun! Thursdays, 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.,
through December 16
PRE-K KAPERS
For children ages 4-6. Your preschooler can join us
as we build pre-reading skills and enjoy stories,
crafts and fun! Tuesdays, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. through
December 14
HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHT
& FOOD DRIVE
Food Drive hosted by the W.A.C.L. Teen Advisory
Board (TAB) to benefit the West Allegheny
Ministerial Association Food Pantry. TAB will be
collecting canned goods and non-perishable food
items as admission, if possible, Saturday, December
11, 7-9 p.m.
TEENS: Follow the WACL Teen Department
(Grades 6-12) on Facebook (WACL Teens) for
HOLIDAY PARTY
om 2 - 4 pp.m.
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3rd ANNUAL
Cookie Exchange
updates on the latest books and programs OR
www.freewebs.com/waclteenscene.
PARENTS DAY OUT
December 11, starting at 12 p.m. For ages 4-12,
Cost: $5. Need time to do any last minute shopping
for the holidays? We’ll watch the kids while you get
things done. We will offer arts and crafts, music,
games, movies, and fun.
a t the libr
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aryy
December 18, 10:30 a.m. to 2 pp.m.
.m.
Sign up at the Circulation Desk
or call (724) 695-8150
for details!
M-Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
8042 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale PA 15071 (724) 695-8150
www.westernalleghenylibrary.org
Please register on the library’s Web site or at the library’s Circulation Desk, or by calling for all programs
December 2010
27
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T.SALVIE PHOTOGRAPHY
North Fayette Resident
Leads Blue Ribbon District
ABOVE: Donna Belas, North Fayette Township resident and
superintendent at Cornell School District.
When North Fayette resident Donna Belas joined Cornell schools in the midseventies, she did not imagine her career path would lead to the 2010 National
Blue Ribbon Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C., 35 years later.
After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh, Donna joined the Cornell
School District as an English teacher. She earned a master's degree from Pitt in
1974 and went on to teach until 2000. Over the years, she taught English in
grades seven through 12, as well as journalism, creative writing, filmmaking,
and related subjects. She sponsored many clubs and extracurricular activities.
Donna earned special education, supervisor, and principal certifications from
Duquesne University, and from 2000 to 2005 she served as supervisor of
special education and alternative programs. She was building principal from
2005 until fall 2008, when the school board named her acting superintendent.
Pulling double duty, she also served as high school principal that year. In June
2009, she earned a superintendent's letter of eligibility from Westminster
College and looked forward to assuming the head post in the district she knows
so well.
Originally from Brentwood, Donna lived in Moon for 25 years before moving
to North Fayette in 2005. She has a daughter, Jennifer, and granddaughter, Ava
Marie.
"I'm one of the lucky people who has a rewarding career and looks forward
to getting up and coming to school/work every day," she said.
28
December 2010
A Holistic Approach to
the Cold and Flu Season
Do you struggle with recurrent colds, allergies or upper respiratory
infections? The question I have for you then is, ‘Have you investigated
what is lowering your immune system?’ A weakened immune system
could be the result of irritations to the intestines, food or environmental
allergies, or toxicities from metals or chemicals.
Your intestines are your fountain of youth, the healthier they are, the
healthier you will be. If they are under attack from eating foods you are
allergic to; or from pathogens like fungus, virus, bacteria, or parasites;
or from metal or chemical toxicity, chances are your immune system is
going to suffer. This is where you may benefit profoundly from a form
of testing called applied kinesiology and from nutritional regimes to
strengthen weaknesses found during the testing.
The Chinese figured out thousands of years ago that energy flows
through distinct channels in the body and that there are reflex points
along those channels for all of the organs and systems of the body.
Applied kinesiology is a method of contacting these reflexes and
simultaneously testing the strength of a muscle giving you results
instantly and painlessly where your body has weaknesses. It will also tell
you which nutritional supplements strengthen those weak responses.
Using this same method you can easily discover what foods and
environmental factors you are reacting negatively to or are challenged
by. You can then undergo natural treatments to reverse allergies and
boost your immune system.
This information is provided by Jeffrey Niznik, owner of, Energy
Guide Healing. To contact Jeff, call (412) 980-0900 or visit the Web
site at www.energyguidedhealing.com.
Learning Curves is provided as a service by advertisers of Allegheny West Magazine to share
educational and/or informational knowledge with the readership. To inquire about Learning
Curves, call (724) 695-3968.
December 2010
29
PTI’s Professional Dress Sale
Readies Young Adults for Work
Students in the Meeting and Event Planning, Professional Selling, Retail
Management, Visual Merchandising, and Principles of Marketing Classes at PTI
are getting a hands-on learning opportunity through the school’s Professional
Dress Sale. The next sale will be held on Wednesday, February 16, 2011, from
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again from 5 to 7 p.m. in the school’s Gallery. In 2011,
the next such event will be held in June.
The New to You Professional Dress Sale gives business students the
opportunity to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it in action
through hands-on learning.
The school is accepting all gently worn, professional clothing for men or
women (suits, pants, shirts, skirts, blouses, belts, ties, coats, accessories).
Most needed are men’s size dress clothing, especially larger sizes.
The students run the event from beginning to end. They have been operating
this program for the past three years.
Because young students starting out don’t always have the proper clothing
to wear on their internship or job interviews, and because student budgets are
stretched, this provides an opportunity for them to purchase business suits
and professional attire. This sale offers a wide variety of clothing appropriate
for interviewing and working at reasonable prices. Students can use the suits
and accessories they purchase as the foundation of their professional
wardrobe.
All items are priced at $1 or less. All PTI students can shop the sale, but
those students close to graduation receive a $2 merchandise voucher, making
it possible for them to acquire a complete suit or outfit without paying
anything.
PTI also invites a local hair salon in to demonstrate professional hair and
makeup styles.
Any proceeds generated by the sale are used for PTI community service
projects. Donations are welcome at any time and will be stored for the next
sale. Anyone wishing to donate gently used professional clothing can contact
Michael Discello, Department Chair, School of Business, at
discello.michael@pti.edu or call (412) 809-5100.
COMING UP: Concept Car Competition, http://www.pti.edu/events/
concept-car.html, Registration deadline: January 14, 2011, Competition
date: April 30, 2011, 6 p.m.
30
December 2010
NEW IN TOWN
StonePepper’s Grill
Tipperary Farm
StonePepper’s Grill has opened at Settler’s Ridge. This is the third location for
StonePepper’s, owned by Jeff Joyce. The other locations are at 1614 Washington Road in Upper St. Clair, and 300 Adams Shoppes in Mars.
The Settlers Ridge store opened in September. StonePepper’s Grill is a full
service, casual restaurant and bar offering take-out and a “Parties to Go” menu.
Prior to starting the StonePepper restaurants, Jeff was the founder and owner
of the 1902 Tavern in Market Square. He opened that tavern in 1982 and
operated it until selling it in 2008. Jeff’s experience in the restaurant business is
also diverse, in that he was also the founder and operator of FireWaters North
Shore Saloon in 1998. Jeff closed FireWaters in 2009 to focus on his
StonePepper’s Grill concept.
A lifelong resident of the area and residing in the South Hills, Jeff is looking
forward to serving the airport area residents with his special concept at
StonePepper’s Grill. There is a great bar with many flat screen televisions to
watch favorite sports teams. The restaurant also has the NFL Ticket and Big Ten
Network programming. Its casual, inviting atmosphere offers a separate dining
room, as well as a large patio during warm weather months.
Purchase $100 in SPG gift cards and receive a free SPG $20 promotional
card to use from January 1 through March 31, 2011.
Currently, SPG offers Happy Hour, Monday through Friday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
with half off prices on most beer, liquor, and wine by the glass in the bar area.
Also, enjoy all of their appetizers at $5 during Happy Hour. SPG also offers a
Daily Beer Special; check their Web site for specials and events. There is a real
special on Tuesday Wing Night from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., when wings are 35
cents each. Also, StonePepper’s Grill has a late night menu available Sunday
through Thursday, 10 to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11 p.m. to close,
presenting a great option for after a movie.
StonePepper’s Grill is located at 1200 Settlers Ridge Center Drive, Robinson
Township, PA 15205. Call (412) 788-0202 or visit their Web site at
www.stonepeppers.com for more information.
Jo Lynn announces the opening of her new riding academy at Tipperary Farm,
located at 1185 Stewart Road in McDonald.
“I have had horses for over 20 years and I still have the first horse I ever bought in
1989,” Jo explains. “I started breeding Irish Draught horses and Glen of Imaal terriers
in 2007, and I welcomed my first Kerry Bog pony foal, Tipperary Mariah, just this
year.”
Jo now has five of this rare breed of small Irish pony who were used to bring the
dried peat in from the bogs of county Kerry in southwest Ireland.
Tipperary Farm is now offering English riding lessons for children on its three lesson
ponies, Mini Cooper, Maeve, and Wizard.
Tipperary Farm will offer half-hour or one-hour private lessons under the instruction of
Kristen Kolenda, a graduate of Lake Erie College’s equestrian program. When not
teaching, Kristen enjoys show jumping her horse, Maverick, and teaching yoga.
The indoor riding arena offers a rider guard to help protect the rider’s knees, as well
as a natural misting system to control dust. Parents can view their children in action
during their lessons in a comfortable heated viewing lounge.
Jo is offering lesson package specials for the holidays and will accept credit and debit
cards.
For more information, visit her Web site at www.tipperaryfarm.com. To reach the
farm, call (724) 926-1700 or send an e-mail, info@tipperaryfarm.com.
The Archer’s Edge
Family owned and operated, The Archer’s Edge is the premier destination
for bowhunters and target archers in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Located
in Oakdale, (one half mile from Robinson Town Center) the facility includes
an archery retail store, pro-shop, and regulation indoor temperaturecontrolled range featuring the TechnoHUNT gaming system, which is a
virtual archery hunting simulator. The Archer’s Edge proudly carries
BowTech, Carbon Express, TenPoint, PSE, and Hoyt.
Owners Steve and Jen MacBride, along with their almost two-year-old
son, Sawyer, and Steve’s father, Walt, launched The Archer’s Edge on
September 25 (National Hunting and Fishing Day). Since opening, they
have introduced community events such as poker nights, organized hunting
trips, local shoots, and a sharp shooter lecture series. Also, the Archer’s
Edge is home to a variety of archery leagues, and the “Heroes Discount,”
which is a 10% discount for veterans, firefighters, and police officers. The
Heroes Discount can be used on any purchase except for bows,
crossbows, pro-shop fees, instruction fees, and TechnoHUNT/range time.
Proper identification is required.
Steve and Jen reside in Bethel Park, with their son, Sawyer. Steve
previously worked in financing and Jen was in pharmaceutical sales and
nutrition when they decided to pursue their passion for archery, and open
their own business.
The Archer’s Edge is located on 7261 Steubenville Pike in Oakdale,
(North Fayette) and is open Tuesday - Thursday from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.,
and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. For more information, call
(412) 489-5670, e-mail info@thearchersedge.com, or visit
www.thearchersedge.com.
Edible Arrangements
Edible Arrangements has opened a new store in Robinson Township, at 6506
Steubenville Pike, in the plaza adjacent to Eat n’ Park. Owned by Amy Wilhelm and
managed by Kyle Norrell and Ivette Hussain, the new store continues the tradition of
celebrating events and holidays through its unique presentation of fresh fruit bouquets.
Edible Arrangements offers a refreshing spin on the occasion-based gift industry:
freshly cut and/or dipped
fruit arrangements that are
ideal to make any
occasion a special and
memorable one. The
store offers both local
delivery and pickup
options, and has 988
stores worldwide.
This is Amy’s second
location. Her first location,
the Mt. Lebanon store,
opened its doors a little
more than five years ago.
Through November 25,
Edible Arrangements is offering an “early bird” special. Anyone placing a delivery or
pickup order for the month of December gets a 10% discount when they use coupon
code EBSP2010 at checkout.
For more information, contact Edible Arrangements at (412) 489-6234, fax at (412)
489-6094, or by e-mail at: pa1103@dofruit.com. Visit the Web site at
www.ediblearrangements.com.
December 2010
31
NEW IN TOWN
Keeping it in the family, North Fayette Township residents Toni
Vosseler and Kris and Erica Kruze have transformed the former
Tonidale banquet hall in North Fayette into a brand new, state-of-the-art,
multi-use banquet facility called the Cornerstone at Tonidale. The
upscale, elegantly understated decor includes a new entryway with a
greeting hall, a private, separate preparation room for bridal parties, and
a banquet facility that can be converted from one smaller room for
small group venues to a larger room for events and weddings of up to
300. The Cornerstone has engaged three independent catering
companies that will provide services, depending on each client’s
needs and budgets.
Erica Kruze, who worked with her husband, Kris, and his mother,
Toni, to design the new facility, said that keeping it in the family was
the right thing to do. Originally, the restaurant and bar that was the
building’s daily fare closed due to the competition of 60+ restaurants
that had emerged in the airport area over the past 20 years. Toni’s
brother, Richard Saveikis, had operated the establishment for many
years before retiring and selling it to another owner. Richard’s parents,
Anthony and Lurline Saveikis, originally opened the Tonidale back in
1952.
With a third generation of the family resurrecting the building into a
beautiful banquet hall on one side and a separate pub on the other,
residents, businesses, and guests will continue to enjoy the tradition of
the Tonidale at the new Cornerstone facility.
Erica explained that the new facility was named the Cornerstone
because “Anthony, Sr. was the cornerstone of the Saveikis family, as
was this building which is situated on the corner of North Fayette and
Robinson Township.”
An added plus is that the Comfort Inn-Pittsburgh Airport is on the
same property, directly adjacent to the Cornerstone. Toni and her son,
32
JIM ZACCONE PHOTOGRAPHY
The Cornerstone at Tonidale
Kris, with his wife, Erica, also own and operate the Comfort Inn.
Said Erica, “We’re excited to be able to offer this space for meetings, weddings, events,
showers, parties, funerals, and other celebrations.”
The family even tested the waters with the new banquet space when they hosted Toni’s
grand-nephew, Nic Mink, and his new bride, Natalie, for the first wedding.
“I was a nervous wreck the whole time, but it went beautifully,” Erica added.
Barb Emma, who worked at the Tonidale for many years in the banquet area, has
stayed on board as the Cornerstone’s banquet manager. She will work with customers to
help them coordinate the details to make sure their event is a success.
The Cornerstone offers everything from a corporate breakfast package and company
meeting breaks to breakfast/brunch menu selections, buffet packages, and hors d’oerves.
For more information, contact The Cornerstone at Tonidale, located at 7001 Steubenville
Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071, at (412) 787-1125 or e-mail Barb at
barb@cornerstonettonidale.com. For more details, visit the Web site at
www.cornerstoneattonidale.com.
JTM Tax and Accounting
Premiere, the Avon Store
James T. Martin, Jr. of North Fayette announces the opening of his
business, JTM TAX and ACCOUNTING SERVICES. He started
the business in September and offers individual and business tax
preparation, individual and business tax planning and consulting,
general accounting and bookkeeping, financial statement preparation,
and QuickBooks consulting.
Jim’s offices are currently located at 1525 Park Manor Boulevard,
Suite 284, Pittsburgh, PA 15205, although he said he is currently
searching for office space in North Fayette.
Prior to starting the business, Jim worked for Alpern Rosenthal, a
large regional public accounting firm in Pittsburgh, for 20 plus years,
in the tax department, dealing with all areas of tax for small and
medium businesses and individuals.
As an incentive for new customers, he is offering a current special
of a no obligation, no cost tax and accounting consultation. He is also
offering free E-filing of tax returns.
Said Jim, “I have over 20 years of experience working with
individuals and business owners. I work to build quality relationships
with my clients to understand their business, to learn about their
current accounting and tax functions. I will work directly with my
clients to analyze their business and/or tax situation and discuss tax
strategies to minimize their tax liabilities.”
Jim is married to Susan and they have lived in Walden Woods in
North Fayette for the past 31 years. Their children are Dustin and
Brendan, both graduates of West Allegheny High School and Penn
State University.
For more information, call (412) 480-2446 or e-mail
jtmtaxacctg@gmail.com. Visit the Web site at www.martintax.com.
To shop from a catalog is one thing. To actually see the items in a catalog is a plus. That’s
the reason that Robinson Township resident Joyce Shaffer is proud to announce the opening of
Premiere, the Avon Store, at 1144 Silver Lane in Robinson, on the corner of Silver Lane and
Clever Road. This is a unique concept that Joyce has taken advantage of within the Avon
industry that showcases and sells award-winning Avon products in the store, as well as skin
care, newly released items and current sale items in the store. The store carries toiletries and
fragrances for men and women, makeup, women’s clothing, footwear, and jewelry, at prices
that are 30 to 60 percent lower than department store items, Joyce explains.
Joyce became an Independent Avon Representative last January. The store opened in
October. She is a member of Avon’s President Club and serves as unit leader for 15 Avon
representatives.
Prior to becoming involved in Avon, Joyce had 30 years of experience in sales. She
previously owned a telecommunications company and a computer consulting company.
In addition to the items on display at the store, customers can select items on-site for custom
gift baskets, which Joyce assembles right at the store.
“This makes for a great, stress-free gift for customers, friends, and family,” she said.
Joyce also offers the Military “Comforts of Home” packages. Starting at just $10, they can
be shipped directly to a soldier serving in the military.
Gifts can also be shipped to anywhere in the United States from the store. Customers can
also pick up their products at the store, or even have them personally delivered.
Additionally, Premiere, the Avon Store offers a fun, boutique-style environment with a
friendly atmosphere. It is available to rent for showers, small parties, “Girls Night Out”
events, and small get-togethers. The facility holds 25-30 people and can be used Monday
through Friday, 6:30 to 9 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays. Call (412) 489-6440 or e-mail
joyce.a.shaffer@verizon.net.
The store is located at 1144 Silver Lane, Robinson Township. Joyce accepts major credit
cards, debit cards,and cash. All products have a 100% money back guarantee.
December 2010
Monark Transportation Honors Military Veteran Employees
For years, Monark Student Transportation has honored its employee
veterans with a gift in recognition of
their service to the country. This year
Monark’s vets were presented with a
red polo-style shirt, embroidered with
the company logo,and the American
flag with the word, “Veteran” on the
sleeve. The company also recognized
its employees at its other locations
across the region. Each location took a
group photo of their employee
veterans wearing their new “red shirts.”
The photos will proudly be displayed
in the upcoming company newsletter,
“The Gentle Carrier News.”
Monark Student Transportation is
honored to recognize ALL of the
veterans who bravely served this
country. They want to take the
opportunity to let the community
know that they are honored to
highlight their veteran employees.
ABOVE: Monark Student Transportation Corporation’s Employee Veteran’s in 2010 at its West Allegheny location; Pictured front Left to Right: Dan
Leonard, Chuck Adamski, Charles Firkaly, Wayne Ehle, Jim Stafford, Jim Malesky, and Scotty Stover; pictured rear Left to Right: Harry Amend, Ed
Smith, Francis Nations, Al Rosensteel, Joe Kasper, and Todd Coleman.
December 2010
33
NEW IN TOWN
Selma’s Texas BBQ
Ryan Courter, and his partner, David L. Brown, are the owners of Selma’s
Texas Barbecue, which opened recently on University Boulevard in Moon
Township, across from Sheetz. Named after Brown’s grandmother, Selma, the
restaurant offers smoked meats, fried catfish, and freshly made side dishes that
would commonly be found in barbecue joints all over the South. At Selma’s all
the meats are dry-rubbed and smoked, and they offer six different styles of
sauce so that you can customize your meal to your liking. Brown calls them
“dressing sauces” and emphasizes that the flavor of the meat is most important,
that the flavors in the sauce should enhance, not cover up the meat.
“Barbecue is a very regional food, with different flavors and styles throughout
different parts of the country,” Brown explains. “We offer sauces that are each
a different flavor profile.”
The road to Selma’s has been a long one for the two partners, who each
dreamed of being restaurateurs after working in restaurants in high school and
college. Brown started at the age of 13 at a restaurant in his hometown of
Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. After getting a degree in Hotel Administration, he
worked at a number of private clubs and resorts in California, Illinois, and
Michigan before settling in Western Pennsylvania in 2003.
“I worked in Pittsburgh for two summers when I was in college in the ‘80s
and when the opportunity to return here presented itself, I came back,” Brown
explains. “I had wanted to open my own place for years, and the time, place and
concept all seemed to come together now in Moon.”
Courter met Brown through a mutual former coworker from Michigan when
Courter’s wife took a job in Western Pennsylvania. Courter recounts, “My friend,
Eric, gave me Dave’s name and number and told me to look him up when I got to
Pittsburgh. I called him, he offered me a job, and we worked together for two
years at Chartiers Country Club. When he was developing this concept I told him
I wanted in.”
The two worked for over 18 months planning and putting together the business.
Brown visited barbecue joints all over the Midwest and south and even studied
barbecue at Texas A&M University with a seminar sponsored by the National
BBQ Association.
Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., the restaurant serves lunch
and dinner, with customers ordering at a counter and seating themselves. Carryout is a popular option, and the restaurant offers family and bulk packs for carryout which appeals to larger groups.
Selma’s Texas Barbecue, 9155 University Boulevard, Moon Township, (412)
329-7003. Web site: http://www.selmasbbq.com. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9
p.m. Selma’s accepts cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and
gift cards.
Movement Studio Pittsburgh
Longtime resident Walter B. Nesbit announces the opening of Movement
Studio Pittsburgh, located at 271 Main Street, Imperial, in the building that
formerly housed a dance studio.
Walter opens the facility this month. He offers fitness classes that include
Kickboxing, TRX Suspension Training (the first one offered in Western
Pennsylvania), Yoga, Basic Nutrition, NMR Testings, and more to come, he
explained.
Previous to starting the business, Walter was a personal trainer/kickboxing
instructor/nutritionist/martial arts instructor at Body Systems, and a personal
trainer /kickboxing instructor/nutritionist at Body Matrx.
Current specials for customers are half off of regular class prices for the month
of December.
Walter has lived in the Oakdale area for 41 years.
He said, “In today’s society, people are more aware and educated about the
importance of physical and mental health.
Movement Studio Pittsburgh is dedicated to
inspiring, motivating, and challenging individuals
to lead healthier lifestyles and focus on workouts
for the mind, body,and soul. Our classes provide
unique workouts using your own body weight
and continuous movement that leave you
focused, fit, and stress free. Each class provides
its own level of energy, intensity, and spirituality.
Our staff is certified, experienced, and insured.
As Movement Studio Pittsburgh, a healthy
lifestyle is a MOVEMENT.
For more information, contact Walter at (412) 401-9052, by e-mail at
info@MovementStudioPittsburgh.com, or visit the Web site which will be up soon at
www.MovementStudioPittsburgh.com.
Cafe Chocolade
A new bakery with a European flavor has emerged in the community,
providing a much-needed place to pick up a pastry, a donut, or a cup of
roasted coffee.
James and Aniko Kaufmann announce the expansion of their business with
the addition of Cafe Chocolade, which opened in November.
Aniko’s Hungarian Skin Care and Spa opened in 2007 at 7061 Steubenville
Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071 (in North Fayette Township) between the Parkway
West Career and Technology Center and Pointeview Place. The bakery is
fully handicap accessible.
This year, the couple remodeled the building, moving the spa upstairs and
converting the original spa space on the lower level into the bakery now
known as Cafe Chocolade.
The combined services provide a full service day spa with facials, nail and
pedicures, waxing, massage therapy, and full hair services, with a European
bakery serving Hungarian, French, German, Italian, and American products,
as well as baked items of Austrian and other countries.
Explained Jim, “We make all of our products from scratch. We as well roast
our own coffee and have a number of handmade chocolates, fresh baked
34
December 2010
bread, and a light lunch special.”
Jim has been in the restaurant business for 29 years. He started in California,
where he finished a two-year hospitality management program, before moving to
Switzerland and then France. In Paris, he did his apprenticeship at the Chez
Fouchon and Hotel Lutetia. He moved back to California’s Napa Valley and then to
Carmel, soon after going to Hungary.
“While in Hungary I ran a large bakery that supplied 60 establishments. Cafe
Mozart was the best bakery in Budapest five years running. I made the birthday
cake for the president of Hungary and cakes for the parliament,” Jim shares.
His background includes being a pastry chef for a private resort in southern
Portugal and teaching at a Pittsburgh-area culinary school for ten years. He has won
a number of ACF culinary competitions and has demonstrated his work at the
Chocolate Show in New York.
Cafe Chocolade offers fresh European items that include strudels, muffins,
croissants, cheesecake, brownies, and daily fresh bread.
Jim can prepare bulk orders in advance for holidays and special events, too. For
information, call (412) 788-4041, e-mail: cafechocolade@aol.com, or visit the Web
site at www.cafechocolade.net.
Liability Protection Options for
Owners of Boarding/Riding Stables
Boarding and riding horses is an inherently dangerous activity. However, there are
several steps owners can take to assure that should a riding accident occur on their
property, they are protected from the loss of their personal assets:
Business Str
uctur
e: Although it is perfectly legal to run a business in an
Structur
ucture:
individual’s name, there is no separation between the individual and the risks that
arise through the operation of the business. Relying solely on insurance or merely
posting the property is not sufficient. Therefore, the first step for the owners to
consider is to form a corporation or LLC.
Contr
acts and Wai
s: The second step in protecting the owner from liability is
Contracts
aivver
ers:
to assure the contracts that are used include language that protect the owner from
certain inherent risks associated with the business operations; and that appropriate
waivers are always used.
Sta
tutor
Statutor
tutoryy Compliance: As with waivers, it is important, in order to maintain
immunity, under Pennsylvania’s immunity law for equine activity, that the property is
properly posted.
Insurance: Regardless of all of the above precautions, the business owner will
always need Commercial General Liability and Property and Casualty insurance for the
business operation. Policies should be read carefully so the owner knows what is and
what is not covered.
In summary, there are steps owners can and should take to minimize the risk
associated with their equine business operations: the appropriate entity choice; the
use of well written contracts and waivers, statutory compliance and the right
insurance. If in doubt about how well protected your business operation is, then
seek out the advice of a professional.
Lynn R. Emerson, Esquire is the managing attorney of BusinessLegal, PC, a
law firm dedicated to the needs of small businesses and individuals. This article
is published with the understanding that the information provided is of a
general nature, and that the author is not rendering specific legal advice or
creating an attorney-client relationship. If legal advice is required, contact
BusinessLegal, P.C. or an attorney of your choice.
Learning Curves is provided as a service by advertisers of Allegheny West Magazine to share educational and/or
informational knowledge with the readership. To inquire about Learning Curves, call (724) 695-3968.
Senior Groups in the
West Allegheny Area Community
Oakdale
Community Center
Contact: 724.693.8540
Findlay
Senior Citizens
Contact: 724.695.0500
North Fayette
Senior Citizens
Contact: 724.693.3118 or
412.788.4888
St. Columbkille
Senior Citizens
Contact: 724.695.7325
ABOVE: Attendees at North Fayette’s Halloween party took
to the dance floor.
OAKDALE CENTER
Lifespan, located at the Oakdale Community
Center on Seminary Avenue in Oakdale, offers,
besides its daily lunches, bingo, games, and other
activities. The center is open to seniors age 60 and
over. Call (724) 693-8540.
December 2010
35
STORY AND PHOTOS
BY CATHERINE ROBERTS
T
he Christmas season brings out many colorful
sights and sounds. Almost everywhere you go you
can see brightly lit houses strung with lights to
celebrate the season. On occasion, you can find a house
that has a unique kind of light display. Joey Falcioni, 14, of North
Fayette, has just that. He single handedly programs and sets up
Christmas lights that are annually displayed on his house. Joey even
has his own radio station which you can listen to for the songs that he
is playing.
The lights are programmed to do certain sequences and patterns for
each song that is played. Additionally, music can be heard playing
outside his house and on his radio station. The display is amazing to
view, and it is not uncommon for people to stop and watch.
When asked what inspired him to do his display he replied, “In
2007 I saw a video of a guy’s Christmas lights synchronized to music.
After researching it, I came across the necessary hardware and software
to do this myself.”
He first started his light display three years ago. Since then his
display has grown and has gotten more advanced. In previous years
Joey synchronized lights to songs such as “The Carol of the Bells,”
“Let it Snow,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “All I Want for Christmas is
You.” This year the songs include “Winter Wonder Land,” songs from
“A Miracle on 34th Street,” and “Carol of the Bells.”
Each song takes around twelve hours to complete on the computer
program. From there, the lights are plugged in and controlled by the
computer. He sets up over 6,000 lights that are all LED. Because each
string has to be individually plugged in, Joey has over 2,000 feet of
extension cords.
36
December 2010
“It’s actually costfriendly.” he said.
“The lights are
computer controlled
so they are usually
on only 60% of the
time. And with the
LEDs the cost is
not much more
than usual.”
The lights are on
from around
7 to 10 p.m. on
weekdays and
even longer on
the weekends. To
see the display for
yourself, take a ride to Walden Woods in
North Fayette, and, as you near Joey’s house at 107 Forest Glen
Drive, tune your radio to 90.1FM.
His advice to those who are interested in setting up their own
display is, “Start as soon as possible, watch for when lights go on sale,
and have fun and enjoy the experience.”
The tradition of putting up Christmas lights has captivated Joey,
and he plans to continue it for many years to come. So whether you
put up lights of your own or enjoy looking at others, it is a great way
to get in the holiday spirit and enjoy the season.
BY PAT JENNETTE
Ha
oject?
Havve You Hear
Heardd About The 3/50 Pr
Project?
Chris Dilla, owner of Bocktown Beer and Grill in North Fayette,
does it. So does Michelle Mason, owner of LaStone Therapy, also
in North Fayette. So, too, does Donna Dobos, owner of Willow
Creek Crossing in the heart of downtown Oakdale. Add to that list
RWG Archery and The Painted Giraffe, both in Imperial. Oh, and
don’t forget The Flowersmith in Kennedy and the Village Shoppe
in Moon. Even local stores The Happy Baby Company, West Hills
Pet Center and Northern Light Company, also all local businesses,
are doing it.
What do they do? They are all locally owned, independent, small
business owners who support and promote The 3/50 Project, a
growing national movement to encourage local residents to make
educated decisions about their dollars when they go out to spend.
In a nutshell, it is about frequenting three local businesses each
month and spreading one’s $50 in discretionary spending among
them. Do it each month, and small business will stay alive and well
here in the airport suburbs.
Donna Dobos passes out the flyer provided on The 3/50 Project
Web site to her customers. Chris Dilla shares the flyer and also has
a blog online about the importance of spending local and doing
business with local people.
In an age when online shopping is becoming more and more
popular and as more people short on time find it easier to order
from the computer, it is important to point out that by doing one’s
shopping in this way, none of the money stays in the local
neighborhood. Yet, by stopping at the local gift shop or hardware
store to buy that special item, local people can keep local business
alive.
Everyone has $50 a month to spend. We spend it on everything
from food and drinks to health and wellness products. With the
national economy at a near standstill, it is more important than
ever to support the hundreds of small businesses that work so hard
to keep their storefronts alive.
Cinda Baxter, creator of The 3/50 Project, is a veteran consultant
and one-time retailer who has launched a national effort to
promote regional economies. She provides the collateral materials
online for a nominal cost or even no-cost, so that small businesses
can get the message out among their neighborhoods that it is
important to buy local.
Says Chris Dilla, owner of Bocktown, “I learned of The 3/50
Project from Kim of McGinnis Sisters, who insisted that I
‘google’ it. I did the very next day, because the message already
made sense to me. Bocktown needed to be involved.”
“I was already saying the same thing as Cinda Baxter in my
own way. Bocktown has Pittsburgh Pride Partners whom we do
business with to bring the best quality ingredients to our
menu,” she added.
“I want the area’s shoppers to find us, and other locally owned
businesses in the area. We need them. We want them, and we can offer a
better and unique experience. I firmly believe you will get more quality
and satisfaction when doing business within your community with your
neighbors,” Chris stressed.
And thus, the reason for The 3/50 Project. More details are outlined on
the materials below.
As you begin your holiday shopping this season, be sure to take a look at
the promotions being offered by our local businesses that are shared on the
following pages. Stop in. Buy something. Thank them for being part of
your community. Help them stay there.
December 2010
37
Local Holida
ppenings Ar
ound Town T his Season
Holidayy Ha
Happenings
Around
West Allegheny School District holiday concert schedule is as follows:
Wilson Elementary School
Donaldson Band & Chorus
December 7 at p.m.
Donaldson Elementary School
McKee Band & Chorus
December 9 at 7 p.m.
McKee Elementary School
Grade 6 Band & Chorus
High School Auditorium
38
December 2010
High School Chorus
Sewickley’s Christy House will host a Christmas Victorian Luncheon on
Friday, December 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Christy House is an
historical landmark and former rector’s home. Fridays, September
through June, lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Volunteers
serve as waitresses, kitchen, and shop staff. Shop in the Needles Eye
for unique new gifts and in Earthly Treasures for used items. Proceeds
from the $9 lunch benefit women’s and children’s missions, (412) 7415960 after 9 a.m. on Fridays for groups over four.
Old Economy Village in Baden will host “Christmas Around the World”
on Saturday, December 11 from 2 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults
and $5 for children ages 3-11. Children under age 3 are free. Tour the
decorated Village, enjoy musical performances, and shop for unique
gifts made by traditional craftsmen at the Weihnachtsmarkt. Children and
their parents will enjoy many hands-on activities, carriage rides, and
das Kinderhaus. Enjoy delicious homemade German food prepared by
members of St. John’s Lutheran Church, in the original house of worship
of the Harmony Society. Parking shuttle service is available. Visit
www.oldeconomyvillage.org or call (724) 266-4500, ext. 101.
10 am- 8 pm
daily
through
Dec. 23
December 2010
39
ABOVE: This gingerbread house was created by the staff at the Hyatt,
Pittsburgh International Airport as part of its holiday season partnership
with the Autism Center of Pittsburgh. Artwork by the children of the Autism
Center of Pittsburgh is also is on display in the lobby and available through
the auction that is currently underway. See information, below, for details.
40
December 2010
December 2010
41
Happy Holidays!
42
December 2010
Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!
December 2010
43
44
December 2010
Visit our We bsite in December aatt
www
.alle
ghen
yw
estmg
azine
.com
www.alle
.alleghen
ghenyw
ywestmg
estmgazine
azine.com
for a calendar of December events.
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book pa
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Also
acebook
pagg e to rrecei
eceivv e
Also,, join our FFace
updated listings of holiday events around the
neighborhoods!
December 2010
45
The West Allegheny High School Show Choir, under the direction of
Earl Wiechelt, Jr., high school music teacher, is busy performing
Christmas carols during the holiday season. The show choir consists
of around 30 high school students selected by audition. Their
performances this year include:
Tuesday, December 7: Montour Country Club; Masonic Village, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 10: Oakdale Senior Center, 12:15 p.m.
Saturday, December 11: The Rock Youth & Family Center, Oakdale, 5 p.m.; Clinton
Christmas Light-Up Display: 7 p.m.
Tuesday, December 14: Findlay Twp. Senior Citizens, Activity Center, 5:45 p.m.
Wednesday, December 15: Renaissance Hotel, 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 18: Byham Theater, Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m., show ticket required
Sunday, December 19: St. Andrew’s Church, Moon Township, 7 p.m.
Thursday, December 23: High School Christmas Choral Concert, Auditorium, 7 p.m.
Thursday, January 5: National Honor Society Induction, High School
The West Allegheny Aqua Club will host a holiday Pancake Breakfast
on Sunday, December 12 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Findlay Township
Community Center. Cost is $6 for adults, $4.50 for kids. There will be a
Chinese auction and a spot for children to deliver their letters to Santa.
Santa will be there between 10 a.m. and noon. (724) 693-0721..
The Trinity Jazz Band will perform its Christmas
concert at The ROCK Family and Youth Center in
Oakdale on Monday, December 20 at 7 p.m. Retired
West Allegheny Middle School teacher, Dan Hanczar,
performs acoustical guitar as a member of this 20piece orchestra that specializes in big band jazz of
both Christian and secular nature. (724) 856-0856.
Santa and Kids Party at McDonald Trail Station on Saturday,
December 11 from 2 to 5 p.m. Santa will arrive on a McDonald Fire
Truck to visit with the children. Take a hayride along the Panhandle
Trail, enjoy treats, raffles, and more. For information, call Sandi
Albertini, (724) 926-9137.
The Nutcracker will be presented by the Carnegie Performing Arts
Center located in Carnegie, Pennsylvania at the historic Andrew
Carnegie Music Hall. Presented the first two weekends of December,
through Sunday, December 12, performances will be at 8 p.m. on
Friday and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Directed and
choreographed by Monica Ryan, the cast of the Nutcracker engages
over 100 local children and adults in this annual display of Victorian
interiors, winter snowscapes and the frothy Land of the Sweets.
Dancing the role of Clara is
Gabrielle Prevade, 11 years old
and a sixth grader at West
Allegheny Middle School.
Gabrielle lives in Oakdale and
has taken ballet since she was 4
years old from the Carnegie
Performing Arts Center.
Tickets are $12 for adults and
$10 for students and seniors,
and available at the door. group
tickets are also available. Call
(412) 279-8887 or visit
www.carnegieperformingartscenter.com
46
December 2010
December 2010
47
ar
ound yyour
our to
wn
around
town
People You Know .....
Jared Detwiler was
awarded the Honor Graduate
of Marine Combat Training at
Camp Geiger, North Carolina
in October. He was #1 of
320 Marines. A graduate of
West Allegheny Senior High
School in June 2010, he is
currently in Camp Leonard
Wood, Missouri attending
MOS, Marine Occupational
Specialty of Military Police.
He will attend Penn State
University starting in January
2011.
Emma Wilson of Clinton was 8th in the
4-H State Finals in Harrisburg in October.
She placed 8th in “Classic Hunter Under
Saddle,” junior rider, riding her horse,
Zippos Mistress. She belonged to the Silver
Spurs 4-H, led by Jessica Swogger and Kim
Fisher, and was trained at Youthtowne by
Julie Beatty.
Kent McElhattan, co-founder and
chairman of Industrial Scientific
Corporation, Oakdale, was recently elected
chairman of the National Safety Council for
a two-year term. He began his term on
October 1 to serve this nonprofit
organization of 55,000 members.
Courtney Holdrieth, a senior at Washington and Jefferson College and
2007 graduate of West Allegheny, recently recorded her 1000th career
dig in a match against Grove City College, October 26. She then followed
up that milestone by getting her 800th career kill against Bethany college
on Senior Day in front of the home crowd.
Courtney has produced another stellar year on the outside for the
Presidents this fall. She leads the team with 207 digs and ranks third in kills
(198) and service aces (17). She has amassed seven double-doubles,
including a season-best 20 kills and 11 digs in a 3-2 loss at Thiel on
September 11.
During her four-year career at W&J, Courtney has played in 111 matches
and has totaled 807 kills, 1030 digs and 91 service aces. (From the W&J
website).
Courtney will graduate in May with a double major in Art and Psychology.
She will either attend school in New York City in order to follow her passion
of becoming a professional make up artist or pursue graduate studies in
art therapy.
She has a 3.48 GPA and is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.
Courtney’s parents are Jeff and Beth Holdrieth and she has a sister
Kaleigh.
48
December 2010
Bob Gambone, a resident of
Westbury in Findlay Township, recently
published his first book, “Pecan Pie:
32 Business Success Stories
Passionately Baked to Order.”
Previously, Bob was involved with
Giant Eagle for 36 years where he
rose from cashier to a management
position. He received dozens of
awards, including three President’s
Awards, during his employment.
Bob accepted an early retirement
and started, Passion, Leadership,
Results, a personal coaching
business for entrepreneurs to help
them grow their business by tapping
into their passion and leadership.
To learn more about Bob, or to
purchase Bob’s book, visit http://
bobgambonerecommendations.blogspot.com/
or http://
passionleadershipresults.blogspot.com.
State Rep. Mark Mustio has announced that Pennsylvania’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
is now accepting applications for cash grants. Crisis grants will be available on January 3, 2011. LIHEAP helps lowincome people pay their heating bills through home energy assistance grants and crisis grants. Cash grants are awarded
based on household income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Crisis grants are provided in the event of a
heating emergency, including broken heating equipment or leaking lines that must be fixed or replaced, lack of fuel,
termination of utility service or danger of being without fuel or of having utility service terminated. In most counties,
assistance with home heating crisis situations is available 24 hours a day.
Applications may be obtained by contacting the Allegheny County Assistance Office at (412) 562-0330 (Cash
Assistance) or 1-800-851-3838 (Crisis Assistance). Applications are also available from local utility companies and
community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies.
DID YOU KNOW?
• Since 1991, the Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH) program has
coordinated the processing and distribution of donated wild game
from hunters to Pennsylvanians in need.
• Did You Know? An average-sized deer will provide enough highlynutritious, low-cholesterol meat for 200 meals.
• In an average hunting season, the HSH program will channel about
100,000 pounds of processed venison annually through the state’s
21 regional food banks, which then redistribute the meat to more
than 3,000 local provider charities such as food pantries, missions,
homeless shelters, Salvation Army facilities, and churches, in addition
to families.
• Hunters donating their harvest voluntarily pay a $15 taxdeductible fee toward each processed deer. The remainder of the
processing fee is covered through HSH sponsors and donations.
Interested in Donating?
Anyone interested in donating venison to the HSH program
should call 1-866-474-2141.
STATE SEN. JOHN PIPPY
1009 Beaver Grade Road,
Suite 210
Moon Township, PA 15108
(412) 262-2260
www.senatorpippy.com
jpippy@pasen.gov
STATE REP. MARK MUSTIO
1009 Beaver Grade Road,
Suite 220
Moon Township, PA 15108
(412) 262-3780
www.repmustio.com
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December 2010
49
Parkway West Career & Technology Center
Honor Society and Cornell
Team Up to Help Others This Holiday Season
The National Technical Honor Society members are teaming up with the
Cornell School District by collecting gently used coats for those in need in the
Pittsburgh area. Last year, more than 80 units were collected. In addition to
coats, other items are being collected such as blankets, tarps, boots,
sweatshirts, sleeping bags, gloves, hats and scarves. Donated items would
be greatly appreciated! Items do not have to be new, but preferably in good
condition. All sizes for men, women, and children are needed. The collection
will end on December 15. Please donate any gently used items to Tracy
Marschik’s office, located by the main office of PWCTC. Questions or
concerns, please e-mail marschik@parkwaywest.org or call (412) 9231772.
ABOVE: Welding Program students with the steel plate donated by
Ryerson Steel.
Community Donations Support School
Welding Technology - American Welding Society Chapter
17,000 pounds of THANKS to Ryerson Steel in Ambridge for their donation
of steel plate to the school’s Welding Technology program. The steel plate will
be used for student projects in class. Each student project adds to the
students' skill set to help prepare them for various welding industry certifications. Ryerson Steel wants to ensure that productivity in Welding does not stop.
50
December 2010
Auto Body Repair & Automotive Technology
Students and program instructors wish to thank Bar’s Product, Inc., a
premium automotive chemical company, for donating a case of UV Dye to help
find and seal leaks in automotive air-conditioning systems. With support from
Bar’s Product, Inc., students from Parkway West will continue to receive a top
quality education and work with top quality supplies as well.
Community College of Allegheny County
The CCAC–West Hills Center will offer hybrid
training classes in the spring. For more
information, call Bob Koch, (412) 788-7378 or
Gretchen Mullin-Sawicki, (412) 369-3616.
The Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC)
is introducing a new online Job Placement
Assistance program this fall for all residents
of southwestern Pennsylvania interested in obtaining
or changing jobs. CCAC is providing this program as
a free service to the community.
Interested residents will be able to find solutions
online to help them build job searching skills,
discover a new career path, and identify job
prospects. The program services can be found at
www.ccac.edu, where individuals will find the CCAC Job
Search Manual and receive more information about
jobs, careers, and searching strategies. They will be
able to review sample interview questions and find
links to other search engines that provide local job
postings.
Those that find this program useful may also
prepare and upload a resume online and search
through job postings from local employers by
creating an account at CCAC College Central. Visit
www.collegecentral.com/ccac to sign up.
The Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC)
is offering a Lead Base Paint Certified
Renovator Training program. Two training
courses will be held: November 22 and
December 17. Sessions will be held at the
CCAC West Hills Center 1000 McKee Road,
Oakdale. The cost of the program is $239.
New Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) regulations require
homes, childcare facilities, and schools built
before 1978 to be certified as lead safe.
Contractors performing renovation, repair,
and painting projects that disturb these
buildings must be certified or trained as EPA
lead safe contractors and follow specific
work practices to minimize public exposure
to lead hazards contained in lead paint.
The Lead Base Paint Certified Renovator
Training program is a one-day, 8-hour course
and will provide EPA mandated training for
individuals or contracting firms to become
EPA lead certified renovators in compliance
with the new federal law. This course is
approved for purposes of certification and
under Section 402 of Toxic Substance Control
Act for Renovator Training.
Classes are limited to 25 students. For
more information or to register, call Marge
Curtin at (412) 788-7386 or e-mail
mcurtin@ccac.edu.
The Community College of Allegheny County
(CCAC) now offers free training for
veterans in two healthcare-related
fields. The goal of the Veterans Health Career
Education Project is to train qualified veterans to
become certified paramedics or nursing assistants. Through a grant from the U.S. Department of
Education, the training is free to honorably
discharged veterans and their spouses who are
currently unemployed, underemployed, or on
public assistance.
For those who may want to explore alternative
career opportunities, the CCAC Veterans Services
Center provides a variety of services and
education options to veterans. The Post-9/11 GI
Bill is in effect for a second year, giving those who
have served in the armed forces on or after
September 11, 2001 access to education benefits
and financial support in continuing their education.
CCAC currently has over 500 veterans utilizing their
Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits this year.
In addition to offering education, workforce
training and business opportunities to veterans, the
CCAC Veterans Services Center also provides
academic advising, counseling, disability services,
financial aid and other support services.
For more information about the Health Career
Education Project, call (412) 237-2560, or, for
CCAC Veterans Services, call (412) 237-2635.
December 2010
51
ABOVE: Long-time residents Lloyd and Patty Faux of Clinton in
Findlay Township coordinate all of the details, from setting up,
scheduling nightly volunteers, tearing down and storing the
display,annually.
52
December 2010
BY PAT JENNETTE
PHOTOS BY DAVE KNOER
needs and activities. On average, the group donates about
If a picture says a thousand words, these pictures
$20,000 annually.
surely tell a story that could be a book.
Among the beneficiaries have included a diverse group of
And, if angels do exist, then Lloyd and Patty Faux of
charities, groups with various needs, families or individuals
Clinton would be among them.
with serious health challenges, and scholarships for
Since 1993, the annual Christmas Light-Up Celebration
students.
in Clinton Park, Findlay Township, has dazzled thousands
Early on, the volunteers formed a committee to ensure
of visitors who come to drive through this one-mile light
the funds are disbursed each spring, and throughout the
extravaganza.
year on a case by case basis.
There are no major sponsors, although there are many
“We try to help others in our own neighborhoods who
good-hearted businesses and organizations in the
need it, and are glad to donate when the
neighborhood who donate products,
situation arises where someone is in a
services, equipment, and in some cases,
THE DETAILS:
serious situation,” Lloyd explained.
cash, to help.
Clinton Park
After New Year’s Day, weather permitting,
Christmas in the West Allegheny
Findlay Township
volunteers, coordinated by Lloyd and
neighborhood isn’t complete without a visit
Route 30, 1/2 mile west Patty, head back out to the park to begin
to the light display.
of Clinton
the dismantling process. It’s akin to taking
It is a true labor of love, spearheaded
Post Office
down one’s Christmas decorations, but
by Lloyd and Patty, 80 and 74 respecDaily, 5-10 p.m.,
hundreds of times over.
tively, and with the help of local residents,
What’s more, after the park project is in
including holidays
youths, scout troops, moms, and school
place, Lloyd and Patty put up their own
$7/car
children who help string the lights, carry
the decorations out of the shed, put items West Allegheny Show decorations at their home just down the
street from the park on Route 30.
in place, and do whatever is needed to
Choir performs in the
Findlay Township worked with Lloyd and
bring it back to life each season.
park on December 11
Patty
to provide a parcel within the park
The vision and inspiration for the
(724) 899-3602
that enabled the Light-Up committee to
Christmas Light-Up Celebration began in
purchase and build a large storage barn where the
1993 as the couple and others visualized the park lit up
decorations can be stored until next year.
in celebration of the birth of Christ at Christmas.
Said Patty, “We always need help setting up the display in
Its mission is simple: to generate unity within the
the fall and taking it down in the winter.”
community by celebrating the Christmas spirit together.
This all-volunteer community gem that started with a
And its goal is simple: to help those who are in physical,
vision has become an integral part of the West Allegheny
emotional, spiritual, and financial need as well as
neighborhood during the Christmas season.
organizations, individuals, and groups who need such
suppor t.
Many have donated over the years, either through
their time, talents, or dollars. All money raised goes right
back into the community to help with a variety of different
BELOW:
Children can drop their letters to
Santa in his special mailbox when
they come with their families to see
the lights; the Santa Claus display
was created in memory of the late
Roger Mance of Imperial, who was
known as the community’s Santa
Claus for many years;
BELOW: Some of the displays are
purchased and donated to the
event by families who wish to
honor the memory of a loved one
LEFT: Patty Faux greets a visitor at
the gate.
December 2010
53
Poinsettia Tips
Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are a popular plant to give as gifts
during the holiday season. The plant, native to southern Mexico, was first
introduced in the United States in 1825 by Joel Robert Poinsett, the first U.S.
ambassador to Mexico.
If you plan to give a poinsettia as a gift this holiday season, choose plants
that have large bracts (brightly colored petal-like leaves), tightly closed yellow
button-like centers (the plants true flowers), and a full complement of rich,
dark green leaves that grow down to the plant’s base. The plant should stand
on its own without the aid of ties or sticks and should not be stored in a plastic
sleeve. Check plants for insects and carefully wrap them before going
outdoors. If the plants are exposed to cold temperatures (50° F or lower)
they will drop their leaves.
When you get them home, place them in bright, indirect sun in a warm room
(60°-70° F) and keep them away from cold drafts or direct heat sources. The
plants should be checked daily to see if they need water. If the soil is dry,
water the plants until the water runs out the bottom and discard the excess
To learn more about the
North Fayette Garden Club,
call (724) 693-8413.
presented by the
North Fayette Garden Club
News from
Heritage Public Library
Computer classes are being held at the library on Saturdays from 10 a.m.
to noon. Participants are required to sign up in advance so the library is
prepared for the class. For details and the types of computer activities
being offered, contact the library at (724) 926-8400.
Weight Watchers meets at the library on Tuesdays starting at 6 p.m.
The Friends of Heritage Public Library campaign is underway. Ask at the
library how to become a friend. Additionally, the library is seeking board
members. If interested, stop by the library for more information.
The library offers a community meeting room. It is available for meetings
and parties. Call to inquire.
Scrapbooking workshops will resume in February.
A book discussion group meets the second Tuesday of each month at
1 p.m. The book title for December is “The Lost Quilter” by Jennifer
Chiaverini.
LIBRARY HOURS:
Mondays: 4-8
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 12-8
Fridays: 10-2
Saturday: 10-4
PHONE: (724) 926-8400
www.heritagewpublib.org
54
December 2010
water immediately so the roots are not damaged.
If you want to keep your plants for the following year, continue to water
them as directed. In May cut the stems back to approximately 3-6 inches
above the soil and fertilize every 2-3 weeks. When the outdoor temperature
is consistently above 60° F, set the plant outside in partial shade. As the
shoots grow, increase the frequency of your watering and pinch the top inch
of growth back when the shoots are several inches long. Wash the sap off
the plant and move the plant to a sunny indoor location in late August/early
September, keeping the plant at a consistent 65° and 70° F. In order to get
the plants to flower in December, the plants must endure an 8-10 week
period of less than 12 hours of daylight. In October place your plant in
total darkness from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. and in a sunny location from 8 a.m. to
5 p.m. You should water and fertilize every week as needed until the bract
color develops. Once this color develops you can stop placing the plant in
the dark in the evening and it should bloom for the holiday season.
North Fayette Township 2011 Recycling Calendar
Represents holiday with no garbage pickup
Represents garbage pickup 1 day late
and boxed Represents recycling weeks
JANUARY
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FEBRUARY
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MARCH
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APRIL
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MAY
JUNE
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JULY
W
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
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31
NOVEMBER
OCTOBER
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DECEMBER
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F
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When:
On your regular garbage pickup day during the weeks shaded above.
What:
Clear and colored glass, aluminum and bi-metal beverage cans and steel ( tin)
food cans, plastic food, soda and milk containers. Plastic types 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5.
Not acceptable:
Unmarked plastic, motor oil containers, grocery bags, drinking cups, toys, fast food
containers, styrofoam items, sheet plastic, Aerosol cans, paint cans, window glass,
light bulbs, pyrex, or ceramics.
Instructions:
Remove lids and metal rings - rinse - do not break glass. Metal and plastic
containers may be flattened. Place in recycling container. Do not use plastic liner
in container. All recyclables can be placed in the same container.
Important Info:
The special container(s) provided for recycling are property of the Township
and must be returned if you move (unless purchased by resident). They are to be
used for recycling only.
Questions:
Contact the Township Office at 412-788-4888 or 724-693-9601
Holidays:
There will be NO garbage pickup on the following holidays: Memorial Day,
Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Garbage service will then be one day late for the balance of that week.
Website: www.north-fayette.com
December 2010
55
FOOTBALL OVERCOMES ADVERSITY
IT’S A GIRL THING
In the annuls of West Allegheny football, 2010 will be remembered as the
year of Mike Caputo. Not because of his participation but because of his
non-participation. A University of Wisconsin recruit and an All-State Performer
on the 2009 WPIAL Championship team, Mike injured his ankle while on
defense in the first half of WA’s first game of the season at South Park and
was lost for the season.
Step-up time for the Indians who were ranked number one and favored to
repeat as WPIAL Champions before the injury to Caputo. They took turns
wearing his number 7 jersey in games and were always aware of his presence
on the sidelines. The Indians made it to the play-offs with a 6-3 record after
finishing second in the Parkway Conference. They won over Trinity, 34-7, at
home in the first round. But Mars ended their season in the WPIAL
quarterfinals 29-3 in a game much closer for three and a half quarters than
the final score would indicate.
Seniors Aaron McKinney and Alex Sinclair and junior Dylan Bongiorni led
the team in most offensive categories.
McKinney rushed for 1,177 yards on 184 carries and scored 22
touchdowns. He caught 14 passes for 237 yards and 2 TDs. He completed
15 of 20 passes for 127 yards. McKinney accumulated 1,551 all purpose
yards and led the team in scoring with 144 points.
Alex Sinclair was the team’s leading receiver with 21 for 279 yards and
three TDs. He also rushed for 583 yards for a 7.4 average on 79 attempts.
Bongiorni completed 76 of 145 passes for 1,030 yards and 8 TDs for a
quarterback rating of 124.8.
Senior Jesse Broda, senior Mitch Posel, and junior Mike O’Donnell were at
the top of the Stat List on defense. Broda, a defensive end, led the team with
43.5 total tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks.
Posel had 31 tackles and three assists with 8 tackles for loss and 2 sacks.
He also was credited with three fumble recoveries, one of which he returned
45 yards for a TD.
O’Donnell will be a key returnee next season after making 24 tackles and
assisting on 24 others this season. As a wide receiver on offense he had 12
receptions for 121 yards and a TD.
(Statistics for this article were provided by WA football statistician Bill
Morosetti.)
It’s called Powder Puff Football. A team of West Allegheny junior girls
challenged a team of West Allegheny senior girls before a large crowd at Joe
DeMichela Stadium on Memorial Day.
The event was the 26th annual affair sponsored by the National Honor
Society to raise money for the organization’s Christmas Family fund.
Powder Puff is more like flag football than the American football version
and there are no scrums allowed like in European Rugby. But there is blocking
and the emphasis is on strategic maneuvering.
Guys are permitted to cheer in the stands and are encouraged to do so by
a squad of male cheerleaders that are also part of the halftime show.
“We had a blast,” said Mary Trax, even though her team was blasted 32-6
by the more experienced seniors.
Chalk it up as a learning experience for Mary and her junior teammates.
“Next year it will be our turn,” said the teenager that carried a 4.0 grade point
average into the game.
Physical Education instructor Munaii Franjione acts as one of the coaches.
She has been doing it for the past 15 years.
“The girls are just phenomenal. They only have time for two or three
practices but they have so much fun doing it and its all for a good cause,” she
said.
56
December 2010
ABOVE: Congratulations to the West Allegheny Youth Football 7U
team on their outstanding season. They capped an 8-0 season with
an 8-0 victory over Baldwin. They outscored opponents 154-46 and
posted 4 defensive shutouts. “This group of 6 and 7 year old football
players showed tremendous discipline
and enthusiasm. The coaching staff led
by Jeremy Horton challenged them all
season long and they responded like
champions,” said assistant coach Jeff
Palaima.
RIGHT: Emily Garvin, a freshman at West
Allegheny High School, was selected to
compete in the 18th Queen of Diamonds
Showcase North (QDSN) at Kent State
University in Kent, Ohio, January 8 and 9,
2011. These events are the largest
fastpitch softball showcases in the
nation. The event attracts athletes who
apply from 30+ states and two Canadian
Provinces to be selected. Emily starts at
second base for the Metro Express 16 &
U travel team where, as a three-year
starter, she has received MVP awards at
the Motor City Showdown in Detroit, and
the Toledo Tune Up in Toledo. Emily also
plays for the West Allegheny Indians and
the Oakdale Youth League fastpitch
team. At the age of 14, she is one of the youngest applicants ever
selected.
ABOVE: Oakdale 10U slow pitch team won the Mt. Washington Tournament by going 5-0, defeating Brookline 13-4 in the championship game,
and also placing second in the Beechview tournament. The 8U softball team won the Oakdale Tournament going 6-0 defeating ChartiersHouston, 19-14, in the championship game. The 15U slow pitch team won first place in the CVC regular season with a 12-2 record and won the
CVC League championship game by defeating Kennedy 8-7. The 12U Little League team won 1st place in the WABL regular season with a 14-1
record and won the WABL Little League Championship Game.
West A Athletes Selected to Attend Olympic Training Center
Two West Allegheny Aqua Club members were among ten top
swimmers chosen for this year’s visit to the Olympic Training
Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado by the Allegheny
Mountain Swimmers organization.
Kara Kaulius, a sophomore at West Allegheny High School,
and Ashley Niznik, a junior, were chosen as part of the group of
outstanding male and female swimmers from Western Pennsylvania, explained Bob Miller, their coach, for their fast times and the
number of events they did at a
high level of competition.
The girls traveled to the
Olympic Training Center in
October, where they spent a
week with top swimmers
around the nation. They
toured the training center to
see what the Olympians
actually do while there. They
trained in the Olympic
swimming pools twice a day.
They also spoke with some of
the Olympic coaches and
athletes. The girls also met
with a nutritionist, and
watched videos.
This was the first time
athletes from West Allegheny
High School were chosen to
attend.
Allegheny Mountain
Swimmers also paid for the
girls’ trip.
Said Coach Miller, “They got a taste of the Olympic competition
life, and the opportunity to see what is available to them when the
reach that level.”
He noted, “Both girls were top swimmers at States last year, finishing
in the top ten.”
“Kara this year is one of the top in State in the 500-yard freestyle.”
December 2010
57
Laws Changing Re: Residential Sprinklers
Beginning in January 2011, a change in the Pennsylvania building code
goes into effect that mandates sprinklers be installed in all newly
constructed single family homes. This has been a hotly contested subject
and has fueled many litigation battles over the past months. On one side
of the debate is the Professional Builders Association (PBA), who claim
that making sprinklers mandatory will drive up the cost of new
construction and may persuade many to not build new homes and thus
hurt their business. The PBA maintains that with the housing market
struggling to regain its footing during these challenging economic times,
new regulations that may hurt new housing starts is hardly a good way to
attempt a recovery from a tough period.
On the other side of the fight is the fire service in Pennsylvania, both
career and volunteer. The fire service insists the sprinkler requirement will
save the lives of citizens, firefighters, and property from the devastating
effects of residential fires. There is no doubt that adding sprinklers will
increase the cost of building a new home. Both sides will throw out various
figures as to how much. I have been told that many upgrades to kitchen
and bathroom items will exceed the cost per square foot that the
sprinklers will add to the final cost of the home. There is also a very real
possibility that homeowners who have sprinklers will see a decrease in
their homeowners’ insurance premiums.
Some may ask why do this now? Firefighters who have witnessed first
hand the damage a fire can bring might ask, what took you so long? Here
is a firefighter’s take on this subject. I have no intention of listing
numerous statistics to confuse the issue. However, there is one statistic I
want to share. In a letter to state senators in October, state Fire
Commissioner Ed Mann wrote, “please consider that since the late 1980s,
when sprinklers became law in Prince George County, Maryland not one
person has died in (a) home protected by automatic sprinklers. On the
other hand, at least 100 people have died in the same time period in
residential fires where no sprinklers existed.”
Another reason why firefighters feel this change is needed is that new
construction and the items that fill our homes these days are much more
dangerous than ever. Most of the items in our homes are made of plastic or
other materials that, when they ignite, give off poison gas that can kill quickly.
The sprinklers will quickly extinguish or at least keep fires contained, thus
limiting an occupant’s exposure to the hazardous, deadly smoke, giving them
the time they need to escape. Many new homes are built with pre-engineered
and lightweight structural components. When exposed to fire these items
become compromised and are prone to fail in as little as five to eight
minutes, just about the time the first fire truck is pulling up to the scene. The
unknowing fire fighters walk or crawl into the zero visibility and the floor
under them gives way sending them into the fire below.
It used to be that a firefighting crew had time to mount an interior attack on
a fire before collapse became a concern. Unfortunately, with fires in new
homes, the battle may be lost before the firefight begins, sometimes with a
very tragic result. Will sprinklers increase the cost of building your dream
home? Yes, they will, but what price can you put on your families safety or
that of the firefighters who come to help?
For those who have watched a movie or TV show where a sprinkler head
activates and suddenly all of the sprinklers in the room are flowing, that is
just Hollywood theatrics. It does work like that in the real world. Surely the
court battles will begin anew in January as the builders try to repeal the
sprinkler requirements. I hope our newly elected or re-elected officials in
Harrisburg do what is right to keep a measure in place that is meant to make
us all safe and protect our property. After all, “our home is our castle,” and
we all want our castle and those who live in it to be there for many years to
come.
Heritage Valley News
Heritage Valley Signature BusinessCare was recently recertified as a
Nationally Accredited for Administration of Drug and Alcohol Testing
Programs (NAADATP) by the Drug & Alcohol Testing Industry
Association (DATIA). Achieving NAADATP status indicates that Heritage
Valley Signature BusinessCare’s facility, operations and personnel meet
the highest standards in the drug and alcohol testing industry.
Heritage Valley Signature BusinessCare partners with 560 active
employer clients in the Heritage Valley service area to promote the
health, wellness and safety of their employees. In addition to drug and
alcohol testing, Signature BusinessCare provides a host of services to
local employers including physical exams, injury care, immunizations,
laboratory, radiology, and rehabilitation services.
Heritage Valley Sewickley Foundation is pleased to welcome Rich Archer to
its board of directors. Heritage Valley Health System is pleased to welcome
David Motley to its board of directors.
The annual Unique Boutique event to benefit the Childhood Obesity
Prevention Program of Heritage Valley Health System brought out 441
shoppers this year, noted Terri Tunick, coordinator. The event also provided
an opportunity to promote the businesses of several local women-owned
businesses.
Next year’s Unique Boutique date is November 10, 2011.
Monthly Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support
Group
Meets at Heritage Valley-Sewickley the second Monday of each month from
7 to 8:30 p.m. in the small dining room.
58
December 2010
December 2010
59
BY JOCELYN GRECKO
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Two stories of residents who took a
journey and discovered a lot about
the landscape, and the people, along
the way.
Their long journey home
from the nation’s capital tested
their strength and proved that
their friendship could
endure any bumps
along the way.
60
December 2010
T
hey say the journey of a thousand miles begins with
one single step, but Imperial residents Ron Frees and
Dave Jungling had bigger plans when they decided to
take their own journey from Washington, D.C. to Imperial,
– on their bikes. Their long journey home from the nation’s capital
tested their strength and proved that their friendship could endure
any bumps along the way.
In November 2007, a 334.5 mile-long trail was created between
Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. The trail connects the 184.5 mile
C&O Canal towpath in Cumberland, Md. to the Great Allegheny
Passage and allows bicyclists to travel throughout the wooded and
mountainous terrain. Since its development, the trail has become a
popular attraction to residents of the airport area. This past summer,
traveling the trail was an adventure on which Ron and Dave embarked
together.
Ron, 66, and Dave, 62, have been neighbors the past few years. Ron
remembers one day asking Dave if he could borrow his power washer –
the rest is history. Dave explained to Ron that he had biked the trail
between Washington, D.C. and Pittsburgh in 2008 and 2009. Ron
shared with Dave the various trips he had taken from Cumberland to
Washington D.C. ten years prior. By the end of the day, Dave challenged
Ron to a bike trip in 2010.
“As 2009 ended, he would ask me if I was going to commit to the
ride,” Ron said, “I believe it was January that I told him I was on for the
trip.”
Although Ron and Dave had previous experience on rigorous bike
trails, this was going to be their first trip together. It would be a test of
their strength. Biking over 300 miles would be quite a remarkable feat
for them to endure in their sixties.
In order to prepare for the trip, Ron and Dave would go to their local
gym.
“We would see each other there working out during the winter and
discuss the trip while puffing and panting,” Ron said.
When summer arrived, the two neighbors rented a van and were on
their way to D.C. They left their rental at Reagan National Airport, and
from there, they began their long journey home.
In D.C., Ron and Dave unloaded their gear and took the
Mount Vernon Trail five miles to Georgetown – the location
of the C&O Canal towpath’s “0” mile marker. Dave carried 50 pounds of
equipment and food in a trailer attached to his bike. Ron carried 30
pounds in his panniers. They estimated their journey would take six days,
from Sunday to Friday; however, the duo experienced some unexpected
obstacles while on the trail. But with those obstacles, came angels and
most importantly, Ron and Dave endured in both friendship and pedaling
along the way.
During their first day on the trail, Ron and Dave experienced
temperatures of over 107 degrees. They decided to stop and cool off at a
rest area. At that point in the trip, a major storm occurred and set the
tempo for the rest of their trip. It severely limited their travel distances
for the next two days and led to the many obstacles they would have to
overcome to make it back to Pittsburgh. After the storm was over, they
decided to head back to their bikes and travel toward mile post 54. One
hundred feet later, they hit a speed bump when Ron had his first of what
would be four flat tires. Ron and Dave explained that they were only able
to travel eleven miles in five hours after the storm due to a countless
number of downed trees that they had to go over, under, and around.
They had to portage their bicycles, gear, and equipment to clear these
obstacles. At 9 p.m. they stopped at mile post 26 for the night.
On day two, Ron and Dave hit the trail in the early morning. They
were forced to still travel through a path covered with numerous downed
trees. They decided to take a break for lunch near mile post 35 but
realized that the electricity had gone out in the area from the storm.
Luckily, when they stopped at a place called White Ferry’s for lunch,
the owner, Clark, was nice enough to open the store for them and provide
some food and beverages. Looking back on the journey and remembering
Clark’s hospitality, Ron said, “He was our first angel.”
On Tuesday, they were on the trail by 8:20 a.m. The decided that not
even the poison ivy they both developed could stop them from a
successful day of biking. Although the discomfort slowed them down,
they didn’t let it get to their spirits and rode all the way to mile post 141.
By the end of the day, they were able to shower and set up at Little
Orleans Campground. They spent the night enjoying their dinner. They
were even able to do laundry at the camp and tend to their poison ivy. A
fellow traveler asked Ron what happened to his foot. After close
inspection, they realized a tick had bored its way into Ron’s ankle.
“At 11 p.m., with Dave’s encouragement, I called 911 and was taken
via ambulance to the Western Maryland Medical Center,” Ron said.
Luckily, the doctor was able to treat Ron and cut the tick out of his
ankle. Ron arrived back at the campground, via taxicab, at 6 a.m. They
decided to take it easy that morning and head back on the trail by noon.
While they stopped for a rest near Old Towne, Maryland, Ron and Dave
met a couple from the area.
“Donna was concerned about Ron’s ankle and offered to assist in
finding a pharmacy in Cumberland to fill his medical prescription, if
needed,” Dave said. When they continued on the trail, Dave experienced
issues with his tires and asked Ron to sprint to the bike store for some
needed parts. When Ron arrived at the store, it was closed, but low and
behold, another angel came to his rescue. “After a few exasperating
moments, the lights came on inside the store and Hutch opened the door
and greeted me,” Ron said, “Hutch offered us beer and ice cold
watermelon.”
“Hutch also helped us find lodging that night when there were no hotel
or bed and breakfast vacancies in Cumberland,” Dave explained.
Later on, Ron called his wife, Sandy. “I assured her that I was now
going to be alright,” he said. “This was a wonderful moment for me.”
While they stayed at the Rivers Edge Bed and Breakfast in Confluence,
Ron and Dave met Anna, the owner. She greeted them with a warm and
gracious personality. According to Dave, River’s Edge is a stop that many
cyclists frequent while traveling the trail.
It wasn’t until Friday morning that Ron and Dave were in the home
stretch. “It was a great day. The road is downhill. While negotiating
down through a washed out area, Dave took a hard fall,” Ron said. “It
took another biker and me to remove his bike and trailer off of him.” By
the afternoon, Dave’s wounds were cleaned and bandaged and they
continued on their way. By the end of the day, Ron and Dave had
traveled 327 miles from their starting point.
On Saturday, they were bound for Imperial. After traveling across
bridges through McKeesport, Glassport, and Clairton, they made it to
the Montour Trail – the trail that would allow them to return home.
Ron remembered that although they were close to home, “This part of
the trip is not for the faint of heart.” He called his wife and said he
expected to be home by 4 o’clock that afternoon, but just after he got
back on the trail Ron was down under his bike. “Another biker helped
me up, Dave administered first aid, and we were off again.”
“We got to US 22 and then could see the barn! Downhill to Imperial
and home!” There was nothing that could stop them at this point –
except another flat tire. After Dave helped Ron fix his tire. “I got 50
pounds of air… I flew!” he said.
By 4:10 p.m., the neighbors arrived home. “Dave and I proudly, with
humility, rode first into his driveway and into the arms of his wife, Sally
and then to my driveway and the arms of Sandy.” He remembers Sally
and Sandy telling them how skinny they looked. “We traveled a total of
383 miles.”
Ron explained that his trip with Dave was the most challenging trip he
ever took, but had it not been for Dave’s help, he would not have been
able to make the journey. According to him, the trail is not really
“complete” from here to D.C., but it certainly provided for some
unforgettable experiences. Although it was challenging, he explained that
it had the most rewarding finish and says he would do it again.
Through their enduring strength and friendship, Ron and Dave proved
that just maybe age has no boundaries. It might have taken them an
extra day, but they crossed the finish line. Their journey together is a
reminder that it doesn’t matter where you are or where you’re going, as
long as you have a neighbor along the way, the journey home is
unforgettable.
December 2010
61
J
ennifer Britton’s boots really were made for walking, and
walk she did, from Philadelphia to North Fayette township.
But she wasn’t the only one wearing boots on the 466-mile
trek. Geronimo, an American mustang who accompanied
her on the journey, also wore boots made just for horses. Why walk
across the state with a horse, you wonder?
“I wanted to do some kind of nutty walk and I thought taking a
horse along would make it more of an adventure,” says Jen, a former
North Fayette resident and a 1987 graduate of Bishop Canevin High
School
It all started with a pesky little knee injury that doctors just couldn’t
diagnose. Jen, a lifelong outdoors enthusiast, began walking several
miles a day to test whether new therapies were working. She hiked up
to 30 miles at a time and discovered a love for photography. After a
diagnosis of arthritis and a temporary cure of synthetic joint fluid
injections, an old idea to bike across the state evolved into a foot-trek
THIS PAGE: Jen Britton, Geronimo, friends and
family make their way down Steubenville Pike to her
parent’s home; family and friends with Jen and
Geronimo; Wilson Elementary students Ben Reno,
front, and Bobby Zysk, back, get acquainted; Jen
and Geronimo in front of the historic Wilson Log
House.
62
December 2010
BY KILEY BRADY
PHOTOS BY G. PAUL DEBOR
with a horse.
“Part of the fun in developing an idea like this was having a style of
adventure in what people traditionally conceive of in wilderness, and
doing it by walking through suburbs and roads people use every day,”
Jen explains.
Jen, who says she was born with a horse-loving gene, began riding
horses at 11-years-old at the Wissel family stables in Imperial. She later
boarded her 24-year-old Appaloosa, Rex, at Rock’n V Stables in
McDonald.
She originally planned to hike cross-state with Rex, but she nixed that
idea after he began having eye problems typical of older horses. Next,
she considered making the excursion with a friend’s mule. But he was
less interested in making new friends, let alone traversing the state, so it
was on to Plan C. Jen borrowed 10-year-old Geronimo from a friend,
and he proved to be the perfect companion—except for constantly
nudging her for carrots!
Jen began preparing for the journey about one year before their
departure. A self-declared map nerd, she says the trip gave her an excuse
to delve into maps and Google Earth. She planned her route according
to boarding homes, farms, campgrounds, and horse-friendly bed and
breakfasts where she knew they could stay. About one month before
they set out, Jen and Geronimo readied for their travels by hiking and
camping in local parks.
On October 2, Jen and Geronimo began their 33-day journey at her
home near Center City in Philadelphia. The excursion would lead them
from urban streets and suburban neighborhoods to side roads and rural
trails. Along the way, they encountered livestock, including sheep, cattle,
llamas, and longhorn cattle. Geronimo was especially curious about
llamas, but he was terrified of the longhorn cattle.
The traveling duo also met many people along their journey,
one of whom mistook Jen for a homeless woman and offered her
a $20 bill! For the most part, Jen says people were curious about
what she was doing and why. Some people even chased her
down to give her muffins or apples for her and Geronimo.
Many people warned Jen of the dangers of traveling alone, but
she says she was never afraid. She found it ironic that people
would warn her about ‘stranger danger,’ while generously giving
her homemade treats.
“The only palpable risk was when I was walking on busier
roads,” Jen says. “I saw this whole gamut of incompetent
driving!”
Geronimo’s daily intake of grains increased from just a few cups
to five to six quarts a day and he had access to all-you-can-eat hay
at the farms he stayed. Jen survived on oatmeal she cooked with a
camping stove, PowerBars, cans of Ensure, chocolate milk, and
meals provided by her host families. They stayed hydrated with
water from boarding homes, which Jen mixed with powder Tang
for a sugar boost for herself, and Geronimo drank from streams
along the way.
Jen’s daily schedule consisted of waking up around 6:30 or
7 o’clock, feeding Geronimo and then feeding herself. After
grooming Geronimo and loading the packs onto the saddle, the
team started on their way around 9:30. They walked an average
of about 17 or 18 miles per day, taking breaks to eat and drink
every four miles. Around four or 5 o’clock they arrived at their
destination and settled in to eat dinner and spend time with
their host family. In the evening, Jen checked the weather and
map for the next day’s journey. Jen and Geronimo walked for
30 days, interspersed with three days of rest.
THIS PAGE: Wilson Elementary fourth grade students Jessica
Collins and Nick Faulk hold up a map of Pennsylvania so Jen can
show the students the route she traveled; the travelers are greeted
by family, friends, and neighbors as they arrive home; Jen and
Geronimo by a special sign made to greet them as they completed
their journey.
33 - number of days the journey took
466 - miles walked from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh
250 - pounds of grain food Geronimo ate
over the course of the trek
6 - number of legs that packed from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh
2.5 - pounds of carrots Geronimo ate
per day during the journey
17 - numbers of mountains they traversed
1,200 - pounds that Geronimo weighs
9 - gallons of Tang Jen drank on the trek
12 - months it took to plan the walking route
16 - number of counties they crossed through
4 - major rivers they crossed
THIS PAGE: Jennifer Britton talks with the students at Wilson
Elementary School about her journey walking across the state of
Pennsylvania with Geronimo by her side.
64
December 2010
Every four days or so, Jen’s husband or her father would bring her
supplies, including food for both her and Geronimo and clean laundry. Jen
made sure that the packs Geronimo carried were evenly balanced on each
side. She carried a backpack with her iPhone, iPad, Nikon camera, and
Garmin GPS—items she didn’t want squished if Geronimo decided to roll
in the grass.
Technology came in handy when a trail they were walking on suddenly
disappeared. Jen used her Garmin and iPhone to navigate another route.
“I didn’t get lost, the trail did,” she laughs. They also had to find an
alternate route when Geronimo became skittish walking across a bridge.
When they reached Washington County, Jen and Geronimo walked
about five miles on the Montour Trail. In Imperial, they stopped at Wilson
Elementary School for a question and answer session with the fourthgraders. On November 4, Jen and Geronimo completed their expedition,
arriving at the Hankey Farms home of her parents, Carol and Tom Britton,
where a welcome party awaited.
Jen says she got used to walking with Geronimo every day, and she had
no knee problems during their expedition. When she returned home to
Philadelphia and went back to her job as a research coordinator at Drexel
University, she had to readjust to her regular life.
“I joked with my friends that they had to tell me every day how awesome
I am,” says Jen, joking that she nearly got used to people on the road being
interested in her and Geronimo’s odyssey.
She says she was so busy walking with Geronimo on the journey that she
didn’t really miss anything, but it definitely made her appreciate a hot
shower and a cozy bed.
Though she doesn’t think she did anything remarkable by walking from
Philadelphia to Pittsburgh with a horse, she says, “It was neat to know I
could do it.”
Jen says this trip is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of outing, though she hasn’t
completely ruled out doing something similar in the future. Her next
adventure is a four-day walk in the Netherlands held every July. This time,
though, she’ll be leaving Geronimo home and taking her husband instead.
You can read more about the journey straight from the horse’s mouth at
www.xgse2010.tumblr.com.
Coming Up . . .
DECEMBER 9
Jinglefest
Montour Heights Country Club
11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
JANUARY 21
Annual Celebration of Excellence
Hyatt Regency Pgh. Intl. Airport
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
More Ribbon Cuttings This Fall
To Reach Us
850 Beaver Grade Rd.
Moon Twp., PA 15108
Phone: (412) 264-6270
Fax: (412) 265-1575
Satellite Office:
One Veteran’s Way, Carnegie, PA 15106
Phone: (412) 276-1414, x 1326
www.paacc.com E-Mail: info@paacc.com
Serving These Areas
ABOVE: Ambassadors were on hand for two ribbon cuttings of new local
businesses, Edible Arrangements, and Premiere, the Avon Store.
Welcome New
Members
Buffalo Wild Wings
Driscoll Insurance &
The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with the
Financial Svcs., Inc.
Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber Enterprise Foundation, directed their focus during
Emily Davis Photography
the month of November to showcase corporate giving. At their 4th Annual “Mixer with
Entertainment Unlimited
Shakers,” event “Guest Bartenders” not only heightened awareness but generated
Equitable Gas
contributions for their selected charitable organization. The event raised over $9,000
Mattress World
for charity.
Selma’s Texas Barbecue
Send Out Cards
Sensational Surroundings
The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce (PAACC) is pleased to announce the
The Alternative Board
newly elected members to the PAACC 2011-2013 Board of Directors and 2011 Executive
Transportation Compliance
Committee.
Associates Inc.
The 2011-2013 Newly Elected Members on the Board of Directors are: Vince Setnar of
Universal Oral Fluid Lab of
Clearview Federal Credit Union; Jeff Main of Questeq; Lou Gilberti of Great PA Regional
PA, LLC
Council of Carpenters; Louis Mancuso of IPS Engineering/ EPC; Warren Byers of M.W.
Westar International
Byers; and Steve McCollum of Word FM.
Forwarders, L.P.
The 2011 Executive Committee is posted on the right under Chamber Officers.
Event Raises $9,000 for Charity
New Board Members Elected
Aliquippa, Ambridge, Carnegie, Clinton,
Collier, Coraopolis, Crafton, Crescent,
Edgeworth, Findlay, Glenfield, Greentree,
Haysville, Heidelberg, Hopewell, Ingram,
Kennedy, Leetsdale, McDonald, McKees
Rocks, Moon Township, Neville Island, North
Fayette, Oakdale, Osborne, Pennsbury
Village, Robinson, Rosslyn Farms, Sewickley,
Stowe, and Thornburg
Chamber Officers
BERNADETTE PUZZUOLE, Chairperson
CAROL IFFT, 1st Vice-Chair
JOHN DALEY, 2nd Vice-Chair
DEAN HASTINGS, Vice-Chair
VINCE SETNAR, Vice-Chair
RONALD PASIC, Treasurer
SEAN HENDERSON, Immed. Past Chairman
Chamber Staff
Sally Haas-President
Michelle Kreutzer-VP, Business Dev.
& Mktg.
Tammy Lynn-Bookkeeping
Casey Mahaven-Special Events Rep.
Connie Ruhl-Special Projects Coordinator
Amber Beezel-Communications Coord.
Amanda Coumbassa & Amy CiccoMembership Services
Jill Kipper-Special Projects Assistant
December 2010
65
Community Cards
www.martintax.com
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS, ORGANIZATION,
PRODUCT, OR SERVICE HERE! Just $115 for a black
and white business card, or $125 for a business card in
color. No contract required. For more information, call
(724) 695-3968.
Community Marketplace
66
December 2010
Gift a gift that costs
nothing but means
the world to
someone.
Sign up to be an
organ donor.
Center for
Organ Recovery & Education
800-DONORS-7 ~ www.core.org
MARKETPLACE ADS, BELOW: REACH 14,000 in each of 3 editions -- 42,000 total, for just $50 EACH!
PIANO LESSONS
Call now to reserve your private lesson time!
Adults & children welcome
Day & evening times available
For more information
please contact
Suzanne Givi Piano Studio
412-787-9879
suzannegivi@hotmail.com
Located in Robinson Twp. across from
Montour HS
Seeking
STUDENT INTERNS
FOR VIDEO PRODUCTION PROJECTS
Spring/Summer Semesters - Students
studying Communications/Broadcasting are
welcome to apply. Interns will complete
actual portfolio pieces for their files.
Internships have flexible hours.
Call (724) 695-3968 or e-mail:
alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net.
Daycare
in Robinson Township is
hiring caregivers to
work with children
ages 3-10.
Experience necessary.
412-859-3581
December 2010
67
Findlay Township
North Fayette Township
In November the Board of Supervisors approved two land development
applications. The first one was for Alro Steel which is proposing a 99,743square-foot office/warehouse/ distribution center for steel products. They will
be locating on a 15-acre parcel in the Findlay Industrial Park. The second pad
development application was for the Imperial Volunteer Fire Department. They
received approval for a 10,400-square-foot public service building on a 1.52acre parcel that the Fire Department owns off of Pine Street in Imperial.
Also, the Village at Clinton Lake, a 115 townhouse unit planned development
off of Clinton Road, started construction. A.R. Building Company anticipates
utilities and roadway to be completed by the end of the year.
Findlay Police Department was among 30 area police departments that were
honored in November with AAA’s Platinum awards for their highway safety
activities. An awards luncheon was held to honor the platinum winners and other
departments that excelled in making their communities safer. In 2009, 1,256
traffic fatalities occurred on Pennsylvania highways. This program recognized
officers who conduct traffic safety education and/or enforcement programs to
make their communities safer.
The Tonidale Bridge replacement project is underway. Traffic is being
detoured for those traveling Montour Church Road at the Tonidale exit. Traffic
on Route 22-30 is being funneled into a single lane, and traffic delays may be
possible during the bridge project.
Oakdale Borough
The Oakdale Volunteer Fire Department and Moore’s Hardware will again be
sponsoring the Annual Christmas Lights Contest for Oakdale residents. The house
with the best exterior illumination will win a $25 gift certificate to Moore’s
Hardware.
The Oakdale Borough office will be closed at noon on Thursday, December 23
and all day Friday, December 24. The office will also close at noon on Thursday
December 30 and will be closed all day Friday, December 31.
“America’s Hometown” Proudly Unveils New Parklet in Town
Oakdale residents and officials kicked off the holiday season on November 27
with light-up night festivities and a dedication of the mural at the former Boock’s
Bar property. The borough purchased the lot. Sprout, the organization that
provided the artist, Diane Adams, for the mural through a grant the borough
received, arranged for the artist to undertake the project.
The event included welcoming remarks by Bill Gamble, with prayer by Reverend
Mark Simons, and Pledge of Allegiance led by Pete Longstreth, a World War II
veteran. Oakdale Mayor Ross Rohbeck, Sr. led the tree lighting. Music was
provided by Clem Rolin & the West Hills Symphonic Band. Oakdale Borough
children sang Christmas carols. Retired Oakdale railroaders Cecil Howell and Phil
Mackey were on hand, as were Roger Williams of the Oakdale Fire Department; Al
Pifer, president of the Oakdale Ball Park Youth League; John and Audrey Moore;
Oakdale Borough veterans and Legionaires; Dr. Anthony and Ermi Palmieri; and
Tim Esken, park contractor.
Borough council members were there, as were legislators and District Justice
Anthony Saveikis.
Curt Gettman, public art manager of Sprout, made comments, as did Diane
Adams. The event concluded with a finale by the West Hills Symphonic Band and the
arrival of Santa.
FROM THE POLICE CHIEF
A $2.8 million project to replace the bridge that carries Kelso Road over
Route 22 in North Fayette Township, Allegheny County, is underway.
The bridge is between Steubenville Pike and Partridge Lane. To allow the
necessary work to occur, Kelso Road will be closed to traffic in the bridge
area between the on-and-off ramps to Route 22 continuously through June
2011. The ramps will remain open during the work. Although Kelso Road is
a locally owned roadway, PennDOT owns the bridge. About 1,538 vehicles
use the bridge on an average day. Signs will be posted to guide motorists
around the closure. Local residents are encouraged to find alternate
routes.
The North Fayette Police Department began utilizing a new communications servicelast month that allows them to send important, valuable
community information directly to residents using the latest technology.
The Nixle Community Information Service allows them to create and
publish messages to be delivered to subscribed residents instantly via cell
phone text message and/or e-mail. Notifications can also be accessed
online at Nixle’s Web site at www.nixle.com.
Messages may include crime watch, traffic, and weather alerts as well as
other relevant safety and community event information.
The service is reliable and free to use.
The messages can be sent specifically to residents registered within a ¼
mile radius, giving them the opportunity to receive trustworthy information
relevant only to their neighborhood. Residents decide from which local
agencies they want to receive information. Subscribers can also choose the
way in which alerts are received, whether it is by email, text message, or
over the web.
There is NO spam and NO hidden cost. Standard text messaging rates
do apply.
Nixle builds on the foundations of other public-to-public communication
services, such as Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace, but adds a key
component: security. When citizens receive information from our agency via
Nixle, they know it can be trusted.
Residents of North Fayette Township and those in neighboring communities can immediately begin receiving pertinent information via text
message, e-mail, and web by registering at www.nixle.com.
Type in “Allegheny West Magazine” in the “search” box at the top of the Facebook page, and you will find us. Become a fan
so you can receive updates of information around the community. We post events and news that we receive in between magazine
issues so you don’t miss anything going on in your hometown.
Share news about your neighborhood or your group, too! Become a fan! Start posting!
Facebook is another way we are connecting the community with good, positive news about the people, places, and events that
make this region a great place to live and work.
68
December 2010
Community Connections
MUNICIPALITIES
FINDLAY TOWNSHIP
1271Route 30
Clinton, PA 15026
(724) 695-0500
www.findlay.pa.us
NORTH FAYETTE
TOWNSHIP
400 North Branch Road
Oakdale, PA 15071
(412) 788-4888
www.north-fayette.com
OAKDALE BOROUGH
6115 Noblestown Road
Oakdale, PA 15071
(724) 693-9740
www.oakdaleborough.com
PUBLIC & PRIVATE
SCHOOLS K-12
West Allegheny
School District
600 Donaldson Road
Oakdale, PA 15071
(724) 695-3422
www.westasd.org
Parkway West Career &
Technology Center
7101 Steubenville Pike
Oakdale, PA 15071
(412) 923-1772
www.parkwaywest.org
This list includes only those public and private
schools located within the municipalities served
by the West Allegheny Edition of Allegheny West
Magazine
McDONALD BOROUGH
151 School Street
McDonald, PA 15057
(724) 926-8711
www.mcdonaldboro.com
EMERGENCIES:
Dial 911
CHURCHES
Allegheny West Christian Church
Noblestown United Methodist Church
7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071
(412) 788-4988
7313 Noblestown Road, Oakdale, PA 15071
(724) 693-2755
Church of Jesus Christ
Noblestown United
Presbyterian Church
57 Moore Road, Imperial, PA 15126
(724) 899-3935
(724) 693-8250
Church of The Living Christ
Oakdale United Presbyterian Church
220 West Allegheny Road, Imperial, PA 15126
(724) 695-7188, www.cotlc.com
62 Hastings Avenue, Oakdale, PA 15071
(724) 693-8950
Church of the Nazarene
Resurrection Lutheran Church
507 Route 30, Imperial, PA 15126
(724) 695-7669, www.nazarene.org
7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071
(412) 788-4513
Clinton UP Church
St. Columbkille Church
25 Wilson Road, Clinton, PA 15026
(724) 695-7993
103 Church Road, Imperial, PA 15126
(724) 695-7325, www.saintcolumbkilleparish.org
Clinton Wesleyan Church
St. Patrick’s Church
1022 Clinton Road, Clinton, PA 15026
(724) 695-7076
(724) 693-9260, www.saint-patrick-parish.com
Covenant Family Church
P. O. Box 15533, Pittsburgh, PA 15244
(724) 263-7147, www.cfc-church.com
(meets at Springhill Suites)
The Bible Chapel
Crossroads Methodist Church
Valley Presbyterian Church
1000 Crossroads Drive, Oakdale, PA 15071
(412) 494-9999, www.crossroadsumc.org
237 Main Street, Imperial, PA 15126
(724) 695-0300, www.valleychurchweb.com
Hebron Presbyterian Church
West Ridge Christian Church
1767 Route 30, Clinton, PA 15026
(725) 899-2276
100 Gorwood Drive, Coraopolis, PA 15108
(724) 695-7500, www.wrccc.org
@ PIttsburgh Technical Institute
(724) 941-8990, www.biblechapel.org/robinson
Montours Presbyterian Church
3151 Montour Church Road, Oakdale, PA 15071
(412) 787-1050
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Al-A-Non, West A area, (724) 926-3396
American Legion Post 171 Oakdale, (724) 693-8759
American Legion Post 335 Imperial, (724) 695-0491
Boy Scouts-Grtr. Pgh. Council-Frontier, (412) 325-7971 or 7995
Findlay Athletic Assn., (724) 255-3139
Girl Scouts WPA, (724) 774-3553
Heritage Public Library-McDonald, (724) 926-8400
Kiwanis Club #1571, (724) 899-3695
Lions Club Imperial, (724) 513-7616
Masonic Lodge #669, (724) 693-8274
McDonald Area Redevelopment Assn., (724) 926-4617
Meals on Wheels-Oakdale, (724) 693-8540
Meals on Wheels-W.A., (724) 695-0634
Montour Run Watershed Assn., (888)205-5778
Montour Trail Council, (412) 257-3011
Montour Valley Grange, (724) 695-0481
Mothers of Preschoolers-Crossroads, (412) 494-9999
Mothers of Preschoolers-Hebron, (724) 899-2276
Mothers of Preschoolers-Valley, (724) 695-0300
North Fayette Athletic Assn., (412) 580-0655
North Fayette Garden Club, (724) 693-8413
Oakdale Youth League, (724) 693-8951
Rotary - Parkway West, (412) 287-9273
Senior Citizen Groups:
- Findlay Township, (724) 695-0500
- North Fayette Township, (724) 695-9118
- Oakdale Community Center, (724) 693-8540
- St. Columbkille, (724) 695-7325
SNPJ Lodge 106, (724) 695-1411
Sturgeon Athletic Club, (724) 926-2150
The ROCK Community Center, (724) 693-2777
VFW Ladies Auxiliary, (412) 788-4674
VFW Post #7070 Oakdale, (412) 427-9195
VFW Post #7714 Imperial, (724) 695-8866
West Allegheny Food Pantry & Thrift Shop, (724) 695-1305
West Allegheny Foundation, inquiries@wafounation.org
West Allegheny Friends to Enhance the Library (WAFEL), (724) 695-8150
West Allegheny Ministerium, (724) 693-8950
West Allegheny Booster & PTA Groups, visit www.westasd.org
Western Allegheny Community Library, (724) 695-8150
West Allegheny Aqua Club, (412) 608-4583
West Allegheny Arts Advocacy, (724) 695-3374
West Allegheny Inline Hockey, (412) 334-2640
West Allegheny Youth Assn., (724) 695-2449
West Allegheny Youth Soccer Assn., (724) 695-1984
West Allegheny Youth Wrestling, (724) 695-3787
December 2010
69
PERSONAL
Perspective
“True greatness knows gentleness.”
Unknown
It was an unforgettable
gift……Christmas. Busiest time for
everyone. Yet, my future daughter-in-law
asked when I could “Go for lunch.”
What? I am thinking, “I will see you
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Why
do you want to meet for lunch? I don’t
have time, but if that is what Mimi wants
to do…”
“How about Thursday, 1:00, where?”
It is all arranged. I have thoughts of
canceling, rescheduling, but I go.
There is Mimi, waiting. She is not
dressed for lunch, that’s strange. Then I see
her, my very dear and a very best friend,
Naomi Ruschell. It had been years since
we had seen each other. Hugs.
Mimi handed me a gift card for the
restaurant and said, “Enjoy. Merry
Christmas!” She left two friends excited to
see one another.
We laughed and talked, laughed and
cried. Two hours flew by and we topped it
with dessert.
As we hugged and said “Good Bye,” she
went to her car, I headed to my car. I
realized I felt so so happy. I felt like I was
about 30 years old again. Our friendship
began at age 18. Our babies, Dennis and
Natalie, were born one day apart. These
two hours were wonderful and took me
back in time.
I stopped and said, “you aren’t 30.
Reality, you are___.” But I liked feeling
30-35.
And that’s the age I’ve decided I am. I just
live in an older body.
Much like this next story.
He gave her the first kiss. She was in 7th
grade, 12 years old. It was his first kiss,
too.
They dated off and on through junior
and senior high school. After graduation,
they lost touch as each pursued careers.
He attended a class reunion. A classmate
suggested he e-mail her.
He did. Then the phone calls. Time
passed. They agreed to meet in Oakdale.
70
December 2010
She flew in, spent a week. He came to see
her every day. They jumped on his
motorcycle and off they would go. He has
made several CD’s. She admits she falls
asleep every night listening to his music.
Truly, love rekindled.
When I heard their story, and saw their
joy in being together, I asked, “I know
about how old you are. But how old do
you feel?”
Without hesitation, he quickly
answered, “Sixteen.”
She answered, “we feel like teenagers.”
How old do you think they are?
Clue to these romantics’ age is the last
line of this story.
Stop and think. You know how old your
body is, but how old does the ‘you’ feel
inside you ?
One friend answered, “a teenager, I don’t
ever want to grow up.” Others say in their
twenties, thirties.. some have no idea,
never thought about it. What is your
answer? Write it, tell it, enjoy it.
Clue: First kiss was age 12 in 1948.
Thanksgiving and WA’s Food Pantry
helped 178 area families.
“For the fourth year now, an anonymous man donated 160 turkeys. Another
man donated 10 more,” says Geri
Hermann, always amazed at such timely
generosity. Geri had just gotten a call
from a church. She was on her way to
deliver food to a family of four in need.
Her passion shows. Forget all the bad
news for this minute anyway.
Geri says, “See the good. There is so
much good.”
Forgot to ask, “Where did the other
eight turkeys come from, Geri?”
What really matters is, they came and
went.
Erma Dodd has launched a Web site,
www.ermajournals.com. Soon readers will be
able to find Erma’s articles on the site. Log on
to ermajournals.com.
By
Erma Dodd
North Fayette Township
resident
“Tis the Season” and also the theme for
the WA High School Christmas Chorus
Concert on December 23. The vice
president and her committee are in charge
of decorating the new auditorium. Laura
asked for suggestions.
Kelsey Powell answered, “Make it fun.”
Fun. Toys, gifts. So, the 300+ chorus
members will be bringing toys, new or
gently used, from their homes and hearts
to adorn the stage for the concert. And
then the decorations, their toys, will go to
the Salvation Army early on Christmas
Eve to decorate awaiting little hearts.
Fun, Christmas-style.
Saint Anthony, Italy, 1195-1231. Patron
Saint of elderly people, travelers, lost articles,
etc.
Imagine driving down Penn Avenue,
Pittsburgh, and seeing in your rear view
mirror, Saint Anthony chasing you. His
long brown robe, his unique hair style,
and he is running as fast as he can in his
sandals, waving his arms, hollering.
The elderly travelers finally stopped their
car. They were lost. And they were
traveling in the wrong direction on the
one-way Penn Avenue.
Being of the Jewish faith, this 75-yearold couple did not recognize this person,
Saint Anthony.
It was, however, October 30, and this
Saint was in Halloween mode, enroute to
hear a favorite band and meet friends on
Penn Avenue.
He saw the car going the wrong way
and did his saintly best to prevent a
possible accident, tragedy, or police
intervention.
So, instead of appearing before a judge
for this driving error, the judge appeared
behind them in their rear view mirror,
chasing them to safety.
Our own Judge Anthony Saveikis,
District Magistrate, adorned as Saint
Anthony, was getting a work out, apart
from Amic’s gym, in sandals, running a
Jewish couple down on Penn Avenue.
Jennette Communications Group
15 Walnut Street, Suite 101
Imperial, PA 15126-1226
NOW IN OUR
12th YEAR
Publishing in the
Airport Area
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PA I D
IMPERIAL, PA
15126
PERMIT NO. 83

December 2010 - Allegheny West Magazine

Transcription

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