in-west-mifflin-spring

West Mifflin | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com C1

SPRING 2011 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Mifflin Township Historical SocietyKeeping History Alive!

PLUS!

Student Poets Impress!West Mifflin Lions Club - Never Turn A Blind Eye

Welcome to the spring issue of West Mifflin. I hope you all had a wonderfulholiday filled with family, friends, and fun. Typically, I use this space to talk about your community or features in the magazinethat spotlight the people in your community who are doing wonderful things. Well, this time I want to update you regarding our newest feature for 2011—our new website. Without venturing too far into the realm of shamelessself-promotion, I want to emphasize that this website is something for you, ourreaders. How so? Well, you can have input and help shape the website just like yourideas help shape your magazine. Now you have a place to list all of the nonprofitcommunity organizations that are active in the community. We are also developingpages where we list the local houses of worship. In addition, we now offer everymagazine in a fully downloadable PDF format, rather than the outdated flipbookformat we used to have. This will allow you to send the magazine, or links to it, to friends and family both near and far. We tied our website into Facebook as well, not to get the biggest list of “friends”we could get but to have a place to keep our readers abreast of all the news we getbetween issues. It also gives us a place to upload all the photos from communityevents that we don’t have room for in the magazine. As with all things, there’s always room for improvement, but we always haveopen ears. If you have comments about our new website or want to see yourorganization listed, e-mail [email protected] with your link orfeedback. There’s no charge for listing your church, synagogue, or scout troop’slink, so send your links in today! And if you happen to be on Facebook and like what you see in the magazine,don’t hesitate to click that “Like” button. It’s always nice to be liked!I hope you have a wonderful spring!

Wayne DollardPublisher

IN West Mifflin is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing,encouraging and promoting the West Mifflinarea and its comprising municipalities byfocusing on the talents and gifts of the peoplewho live and work here. Our goal is to providereaders with the most informative andprofessional regional publication in theCommonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Mark Berton [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Jamie [email protected]

WRITERS

Mark Berton Pamela PalongueKelli McElhinny

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSusie Doak Tamara TylendaPati Ingold Tracey Wasilco

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Garyyonphotography.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Nicholas Buzzell David MitchellBrian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel NegriTina Dollard Robert OjedaRose Estes Annette PetroneJason Huffman Vincent SabatiniJessie Jones Michael SilvertConnie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian McKee

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in partwithout written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011.

CORRESPONDENCEAll inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to:

IN Community MagazinesAttn: Editorial603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray, PA 15317Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

Summer content deadline: 5/9www.incommunitymagazines.com

SPRING 2011

Please recycle this magazinewhen you arethrough enjoying it.

“No one is useless in this world wholightens the burdens of another.”

– CHARLES DICKENS

When I think about spring, I can’t help but think about light. The days get “lighter,”and the sun stays with us a little longer each day. When we have a great idea, a lightbulb goes off in our minds. At West Mifflin Magazine we try to spot-light ourcommunities. What are you doing to be a “light”? If you or an organization that youvolunteer or work for is a light in the community, will you let me know? So manygood deeds are left unsung! If you have a family member who is in the armedforces, or if your your church group or even Mom or Dad are providing a serviceto someone in need, we want to know! Please e-mail your ideas and photos to me at [email protected].

On page 6 of this edition, I want to introduce you to poets Monica Ballard andRichard Hilliard, students at West Mifflin Area High School. We truly value thewords of everyone who puts “pen to paper,” but when you read some of the talentedwriting from these students, I’m sure you will be impressed!

Marybeth JeffriesManaging Editor

Some relationships begin by wishing on aflower petal. Elizabeth Ordos’ began by steppingon a crabapple tree thorn.

“I stepped on a crabapple thorn on a farm in Harmony. I went to get the cows, and it wentright through my foot,” Ordos said. “I was inHomestead Hospital, had my foot operated on. My girlfriend brought Bernie over there for a visit and introduced us.”

That was in September. By November thetwo took the $5 they had between them, droveto Catlettsburg, Kentucky, and eloped. ElizabethOrdos was in her third year of high school.

“We came home and my husband’s motherfound the marriage license in his vest,” she said.“We played hooky and we went to Kentucky on $5. Can you believe it?”

Now, 70 years later, the two still share a lovethat has spanned more time than most peoplehave on Earth.

Elizabeth Ordos is especially thankful for her husband because he’s believed to be the lastsurviving WWII veteran in Allegheny Countywho served at Pearl Harbor during the Dec. 7,1941, attack by the Japanese.

“Bernie was there for five years, at SchofieldBarracks and was a Private, First Class,” she said.“I missed him, but I got through it pretty good. I worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad andWestinghouse during that time.”

When she found out about the Japaneseattack on Pearl Harbor, Ordos said her concernwas great. “Oh, I was worried about that. Thatwas on Sunday morning,” she said. “My husbandwas on guard duty. At 7 a.m. he saw the Japanesefly over. It made him sick. He didn’t havebreakfast for two days. He went and hid undersome mattresses because they were dropping

bombs all around where he was at.”

After the war was over, Bernie came home in August,and reunited with Elizabeth inSeattle, where she was workingfor Boeing. They finally had aproper honeymoon, thanks tothe gratitude shone to returningU.S. soldiers by the BiltmoreHotel in North Carolina. “For awhole month, we got free room andboard and meals,” Ordos said. “We had a ball.”

Since then, the Ordos family has grown, with three children, three grandchildren, andeight great-grandchildren. Elizabeth said that the family has become so large, that it’s literally a “birthday every month.”

The couple celebrated their anniversary with a small, family dinner party on Nov. 19.

Elizabeth Ordos said that she really doesn’thave a secret to her marriage’s longevity, andattributes her 70 years of marriage to goodliving and faith. “As long as you just keep livingand go to church, you’ll be fine. We’ve justbeen living,” she said. “I never threw him outin all them years, and he agrees with what I doand I agree with him.”

EVERYONE HAS A STORYWould you or someone you know like to be featured IN West Mifflin Magazinefor our newest feature – ResidentProfiles? Please suggest a resident for the community to get to know!

E-mail our Managing Editor [email protected]

(Must be a resident of the West Mifflin community)

West Mifflin | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

The Mifflin Township HistoricalSociety covers 14 communities. Thisaccounts for over 10% of all AlleghenyCounty municipalities, over 40 squaremiles, and 80,000 residents. Thepresent-day communities of Baldwin,Clairton, Duquesne, Dravosburg,Hays, Homestead, Jefferson Hills,Lincoln Place, Munhall, Pleasant Hills,West Elizabeth, West Homestead, WestMifflin, and Whitaker are in this area.The goal of our society is to document,chronicle and preserve, wheneverpossible, the artifacts and sites of historical significance from theoriginal Mifflin Township of 1788.

We openly invite all members of the communities above, andanyone else interested in thehistory of those communities, to join the society as activevolunteers to accomplish thisgoal of preserving our heritagefor future generations.

Our society was formed in 2001 and met with themembers of the HomesteadHistorical Society. TheHomestead Historical Societywas formed in 1980 whenHomestead was celebrating itscentennial. The two societiesjoined forces to become theMifflin Township HistoricalSociety, which is a non-profit501(3)(c) corporation.

The society has a reference room located in the West Mifflin Boroughbuilding, at 3000 Lebanon Church Road. This space was donated to thesociety so that it would be a safe repository for documents and artifacts

of the original Mifflin Township. Thereis usually a volunteer that mans theroom daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.,Monday through Friday. But since weare a volunteer organization, visitorsshould call Jim Hartman, president of the society, at 412.600.0229 to makesure that someone is there. Visitors are welcome, and there is no charge.

Our reference room has for viewing the Duquesne, Clairton, andHomestead newspapers from 1881. We have a database of over 50,000obituaries from those newspapers, and this list grows. Many old photos,maps, documents, school yearbooks,obituaries, etc., of the bygone days of our community are housed

in this room.The society publishes a

monthly newsletter with manyinteresting articles concerning ourpast history. All paid membershipsreceive this informative newsletter.We have published many books on our local history (Duquesne,Homestead and the Steel Valley,Slovak immigrants, etc.), and theyare available for purchase.

Volunteers are needed at thesociety to help archive items intoour files and databases, digitallyphotograph items for futurereference, and other upcoming

projects. Why not become a part ofhistory and join us as a member andalso a volunteer? More information

can be viewed on our website at mifflintownship.org. The website haslocal histories, photos, etc., of our communities.

4 724.942.0940 to advertise | West Mifflin

by Jim Hartman

Our newsletter staff prepares a monthly mailing of our newsletters to members. L-R: MaryLou Manns, Fran Thompson, Lois Havrilla, Dolores Mattson, Joan Hess

If you haven’t been to Century III Chevrolet in a while, now’sthe time to become reacquainted.

New General Manager Gary Lee is bringing his 20-plus years of experience in the automotive dealership business to Century IIIChevrolet and is making customer service his top priority.

“We’re the new Century III Chevrolet. We’ve changedeverything about the company from top to bottom,” Lee said.“We’ve totally revamped operations for this location, and ourcustomer service index ratings are reflecting that.”

In fact, in the few short months he’s been righting the ship,Century III Chevrolet’s customer service index ratings are reflecting a 97.1 percent satisfaction rate.

“I don’t think they’ve ever seen those kinds of numbers in thisstore,” Lee said. “We’ve made tons of changes to how we do businessand the feedback we’re getting is nothing but good.”

Lee, who’s run dealerships in Monroeville and Houston, Texas,said making the customer number one outweighs any advertisingcampaign that money can buy because word of mouth is free.

Part of Lee’s plan to improve Century III’s business started with meeting with the employees and retraining them.

“We told them what we expect and how to treat customers.Referral business, return business, that all comes from how peopleare treated when they’re here,” he said. “Our expectations are veryhigh because our dedication to our customers is very high, and we’redoing everything possible to convey to our customers that they areour first priority.”

In addition to improving customer service, Lee said that in the next few months Century III Chevrolet will be improving its physical appearance as well.

“We are going to rebuild the dealership. We’re going to overhaulthe front of the store, the service drive. It will be neat and clean and meet GM standards,” Lee said.

Once that’s complete, Lee said that incentive programs willfollow. A specially-wrapped Chevrolet HHR already has beendesigned and will be put into service. The car will drive aroundWest Mifflin, looking for people who have Century III Chevrolet

license plate frames. Random people will be chosen to receive cash and prizes.

“It could work like this,” Lee said. “If we see someone pullinginto Best Buy with one of our license plate frame, our people wouldwait for them, or follow them into the store and pay for theirpurchase. There’s no entry requirements other than you have to be driving one of our vehicles.”

Lee said the program will begin once a snappy and creative titlefor the program is selected.

For more information on the new Century III Chevrolet, go to www.century3chevy.com, or call 1.866.999.0372.

NEW MANAGEMENT FOR A NEW YEAR



With Pride In Her HeartBy Monica Ballard

sometimes i wish that the space time continuum was a hole with gnarly teeth like ahungry bear and milk eyes like a fish.sometimes i wish that i wasn’t a martyr for my own cause,an incubus at night,probing fingers hybrid frills.

mesopotamian backbones.

sometimes we treat sewer systems like mountains.

WINNER

Beauty is..By Richard Hilliard

Beauty is something that lies beneath the surfaceSomething that serves a deeper meaning and purposeAlthough sometimes, beauty is what hurts usOut of our control, beauty is what flirts us.

Beauty is something rarely foundBut is is everywhere; you just need to look aroundBeauty is the quality of pitch and soundNot of definite shape; straight, squared or round.

Beauty is something derived from painAll of the hard work from the monsters being slainBeauty is something that falls as freely as rainAnd if even attempted cannot be tamed.

Beauty is what you make it out to beSo make sure you make it out to be freeEven though it shows itself internallyBeauty will last forever; an eternity.

Beauty can’t be stopped, only hiddenit lies everywhere; the divine and the forbiddenBeauty shines brightly in the forgivenSo do those a favor and forgive them.

Beauty is what hatred is notEven though some may have forgotBeauty is lost but never forgottenSo the forgetful are never fully rotten.

Beauty is in the shade and the lightSo beauty can be made to light up the nightBeauty is the starts twinkling so brightBeauty is whatever is right.

Illusions of LifeBy Richard Hilliard

A language without emotion is not a language at allJust as pointless as the sounds and the syllables they fall!

Searching and searching, but I have not foundA meaning to life in which my senses surround.

Concept after concept possibilities never endReaching the limit, but the limit will bend.

Never stop learning, never stop livingGod takes care of those who are caring and giving!

Willing to exceed but failing to executeShocking the system, lightning electrocute.

Illusions of life, leaving you destituteillusions they are so let them not get the best of you!

Poetry ContestWest Mifflin School District

WEST MIFFLIN POETRY SUBMISSIONS

Richard Hilliard is a Senior at West Mifflin Area HighSchool. He is currently planning to attend DuquesneUniversity this fall, where he will major in Psychology.Richard wrote these two poems last year.

Monica Ballard is a Junior at West Mifflin Area High School She has been writingsince sixth grade, publishing her work on AllPoetry.com. She enjoys writingbecause it allows you to not only release emotion, but it allows you to use yourimagination and to create whole people and places without having to worry aboutmeter or form. "It’s really liberating and without it, I’m not sure what kind ofperson I’d be. Writing has really molded me into a different person and has mademe see what I want to do with the rest of my life. It’s a pretty profound thing."

- Monica Ballard

This past fall the West Mifflin School Districtparticipated in its fourth food drive to benefit theGreater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank—justone of its fundraisers to help out the communityyear-round.

The District says it “attempts to not onlyteach the curriculum, but also show its studentsthat we all have a part to play in order to makeour community better.”

In the past few years, the “Fill the Bus” fooddrive has grown from a West Mifflin Area MiddleSchool-only operation to where it is now, adistrict-wide event. “My next goal is to expand itto a true community-wide event by getting localcompanies to join in as well,” says Glenn Gougler,organizer of the drive.

The collection takes place during the last fullweek before the Thanksgiving holiday.

“Students have really gotten into it each year,” says Gougler. “Thecoordinators at every one of ourschools have been instrumental ingenerating excitement for the drive.”

In the middle school each gradeis split into two teams for the drive.“We offer various incentives to theteam that donates the most food,”says Gougler.

The elementary schools offerincentives to students as well andusually tie the drive in with math bycharting their collection progress.

“The energy and involvement ofthe high school students seems tobe growing more every year,” says

Gougler. “You can see how good kids feel aboutbringing their donations just by the look on theirfaces as they bring their bags to the bus. They’reproud.”

The collection has been right around the4,000-pound mark for the past two years.

Gougler says the project teaches the studentsthat a lot of doing a little is better than a littledoing a lot. “They get the chance to see howtheir contribution of maybe only one bag, timeshundreds of others like theirs, ends up resultingin two full busses of food.”

In addition to the food drive, studentshelp out in other ways throughout the year. In February middle school studentsvolunteered for the day at the GreaterPittsburgh Community Food Bank. Overall,the students packed a total of 11,200 poundsof meat to be shipped to the local foodpantries for families in need.

The District also started a “Toys for Tots”campaign. In early December the schools start

collecting new and unwrapped toys to be donated.On December 10 the Marines bring an armycollection truck to pick up donations from eachschool. This past year the collection successfullyfilled the truck and provided the Marines with a cash donation of $191.

The West Mifflin Turkey Bowl fundraiserfor Make-A-Wish was also a success this year,with a total of $1,127 raised, beating last year’stotal by $253.39.

For more information on the West Mifflin School District's community service, visit www.wmasd.org/community.cfm.

Volunteer Tax PreparersAre Needed!

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Your volunteer experience is a short-termcommitment (3+ hours per week fromJanuary-April), convenient (our six free taxsites are located across Allegheny County andclose to where you live and work), and easy to schedule (daytime, evening, and weekendhours are available).

If you have experience preparing your own taxreturns, we need you! Learn more about theFree Tax Campaign at www.pghfreetaxes.org.


By Jamie Ward

Lionism in our area startedwith the Homestead DistrictLions Club in 1947 and laterin Duquesne. Many of theoriginal charter members of our club were members ofthe Homestead or Duquesneclubs. These gentlemen,seeing the growth of theirarea (known as West Mifflin)and wishing to serve their area, asked for thesponsorship of a new clubfrom the HomesteadDistrict Lions Club.

The West Mifflin LionsClub was chartered onOctober 20, 1953, with 58members: Carl Albrecht,Lawrence Allen, Robert

Arnfield, Stephen Bell, John Benyak, Leonard J. Benyak, Allen Bryce,John Chizmar, Joseph A. Chunko, Edward David, Albert H. Davies, PhilipF. Davis, Clarence N. Dean, Robert J. Devey, George C. Dias, Regis W.Ditmore, Stanley R. Duda, Glenn Dunlap, Daniel Filo, Charles Fitzgibbons,John V. Gedris, Emil Greenhalgh, Thomas Hartland, Charles F. Howe,Frank G. Horn, John T. Hovanec, Robert A. Istvan, William M. Kirsch,Edward Kohut, Frank Kutch, Francis E. Link, Jr., George W. Lynn, Frank A.Lyskava, Robert McGinnis, William H. Miller, William F. Nagy, AlbertNovack, William Olsavick, John Paule, Michael Pazey, Albert R. Perun,Joseph B. Perun, Harold W. Redpath, John S. Reeves, Lawrence J. Richards,Peter W. Richards, Michael Reidosh, Albert Savolskis, Thomas T. Smith,Paul Cyril Starr, Raymond C. Steputis, LeRoy Timms, William G. Ulevich,William J. Ulevich, John E. Watkins, Jack Watkins, David Wilson, WalterWilson. The club’s first charter president was Albert Savolskis.

The West Mifflin Lions Club had a membership as high as one-hundred,and we now have 56 members (2010-11). Lion Albert Savolskis was ourfirst president and last charter member passed away in 2009.

The first meetings of the West Mifflin Lions Club were held at theHomeville Volunteer Fire Company on Greensprings Avenue in theHomeville area of West Mifflin. Subsequently the meeting place waschanged to Paule’s Look-Out Restaurant on Skyline Drive and were heldthere for some 35 years until its closing. Presently the board meetings are held at the Homeville Fire Hall on Greensprings Avenue on the firstWednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Our dinner meetings are held at the Thompson Run Athletic Club in West Mifflin on the fourthWednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Many various fundraisers were held over our years of Lionism to help the community, District 14-B, State of Pennsylvania and Lions International.Some of those early fundraisers were the old fashioned New EnglandAuction, the Penny Auction (at G&K Hall in 1977), bingo games; $1,400raffle based on the Pennsylvania Lottery three times yearly (1978-1990);Lions Mints, and golf scramble (1984-1996), with the Homestead DistrictLions taking it over as a fundraiser. The $5,000 raffle, which has also been a big fundraiser, was originally chaired by Lion John Watkins and was laterchaired by Lions Rich Fialkovich and Jim Hartman.

Our presentfundraisers are the“White Cane Days”chaired by Lions IreneParkinson and WilliamScharritter; theSpaghetti NightDinner Dance, thePancake Breakfast(started in 1997), theGun Bash (started in2004); the gum balland candy machinesare chaired by Lion JohnDonis; the Blind Seals Campaign is chaired by Lion Edward Manfredi; and the trash bags and brooms are chaired by Lion Enzo Colantoni.

The White Cane Days campaign has been the biggest fundraiser theclub has had so far. Since 1975 the club has raised over $190,000 from thecampaign for blind charities. The White Cane Days campaign was headedfor many years by Lion Ted Turocy, PIC.

The West Mifflin Lions have made as many as 54 charitable donationseach year. The principle donations are given to the Western PennsylvaniaChildren’s School for the Blind in Oakland, the Blind and VisionRehabilitation Services in Homestead (formerly Pittsburgh VisionServices); Leader Dog School for the Blind at Rochester, Mich.; RadioInformation Services; and Beacon Lodge (Lions summer camp for the blind) near Mount Union, Pa. Financially, we help the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts, Little League, the food bank, veterans at the VeteransHospital, McKeesport Hospital Diabetes Lions Foundation, the fourWest Mifflin and Whitaker volunteer fire companies, Prism HealthServices (EMS), and other local community groups.

The West Mifflin Lions have furnished through the years about $40,000worth of eyeglasses and eye exams for the needy. Collection boxes are in

WEST MIFFLIN LIONS CLUB


Lions Clubs acknowledge their members with various awards for their accomplishments.L-R Jim Leerberg, Rich Fialkovich, Maria Demko, Roger Hruby, Rich McGartland, Mike Denko (seated).

many locations in the area for the public to make their donations. It is estimated that we have collectedsome 225,000 pairs of glasses for this project. We have also helped the Lions International campaign,“Campaign Sight First,” to help eradicate unnecessary blindness in the world. This was a worldcampaign, and Lions in 188 countries were asked to support this project. The West Mifflin Lions Clubpledged $12,000 and paid off their pledge in four years for Campaign Sight First.

Their dedication to the blind stems from a 1925 address to the Lions at the InternationalConvention in Cedar Point, Ohio, by Helen Keller, who challenged the Lions to be “knights for theblind in the crusade against darkness.” Every year, the Lions celebrate Helen Keller Day on June 1and work on sight-related service projects around the world.

The organization was founded in 1917 by Melvin Jones in Chicago. The name “Lions” was chosenbecause the organization believed the lion to be symbolic of strength, courage, fidelity, and vital action.

Jones was an insurance agent who started his agency in 1913 in Chicago and joined a networkinggroup called the “Business Circle” to further establish his business. Jones believed that groups basedsolely around financial gain were destined to ultimately wither, and therefore he set out to form anorganization of community and business leaders dedicated to improving the community as a whole.

By 1945, he was presenting on behalf of Lions International before the United Nations. Jones diedin 1961, but the group he founded lives on today with more than 45,000 clubs worldwide comprised of more than 1.35 million members.

In the West Mifflin community park, the West Mifflin Lions have built a large picnic shelter withpicnic tables and two large charcoal stoves. The shelter was donated to the Borough of West Mifflin and can be used by anyone reserving the shelter, through the Borough, for picnics.

The Lions also have built a beautiful permanent memorialmonument to remember our deceased members in the West MifflinMemorial Park at the corner of Commonwealth Avenue andHomeville Road. Each year, on the Wednesday before Memorial Day,we honor and remember our deceased members.

At one time we also participated in the “Adopt a Highway”campaign. This project was founded and headed by Lion JamesLeerberg in 1993. The West Mifflin Lions were the first group in the state to volunteer. This was done as a volunteer project for the Pennsylvania Road commission. We maintained a stretch of Kennywood Boulevard, about two-miles long, from Whitaker to Duquesne, until 2000.

Being a Lion does not mean just fundraising but also socialgatherings for our club. In 1984 past President Jim Leerberg started our

annual Lions Picnic. The first picnic was held at Lion Ed Kohut’s home and was strictly “stag.” With thissuccess, the decision was made to make it an open picnic for all the members of the club with theirfamilies attending. At Christmas time we also get together and have our yearly Christmas party.

The West Mifflin Lions Club now has 19 Melvin Jones Fellows, which is the most prestigiousacknowledgement that Lions International presents to its members.. The West Mifflin Lions Clubhad four past district governors as members of their club, namely Ted Turocy (1956-57, served inDistrict 13G), Martin Yuhasz (1958-59), Cornelius McConville (1982-83), and James Hartman(2006-07 and 2009-10).

The present officers of the West Mifflin Lions are Maria Demko, President; Jean Colantoni, 1st Vice President; Mike Demko, 2nd Vice President; Enzo Colantoni, 3rd Vice President; Secretary,James Hartman, PDG; and Jim Stone, Treasurer. Trustees are Florence Davis, Patrice Hlad, Santo Hruby, and Cathy Yurosko.

The West Mifflin community is invited to our Annual Spaghetti Dinner Dance on February 12 atthe Thompson Run Athletic Club, and the 5th Annual Gun Bash on Sunday, March 20 at HomevilleFire Hall. Visit our website at westmifflinlions.org for more information on how you can help your localLions Club by participating in our charitable fundraisers or by joining.


Sometimes the biggest fear in life is change. Change means an adjustment to something different and unknown. But in chiropractic care, an adjustment is a positive step towards a better body and overall health.

“Chiropractic itself is a science, art and philosophy,” says Dr. John Montesano, D.C., of Steel City Chiropractic in

West Mifflin. “The art is the delivery of a proper adjustment.” An adjustment involves a quick movement that helps

add motion to spinal joints that are misaligned. Impropermotion or position of the moving bones of the spine, called

a subluxation, can interfere with this vital exchange by irritatingnerves and compromising the function of affected organs andtissues. Common symptoms of subluxations are back and neckpain, headaches, numbness, and sinus and digestive problems.

There are three basic causes of subluxations. Physical causes include falls, accidents or repetitive motions andimproper lifting. Emotions, namely stress, can causesubluxations. Chemical causes could include alcohol, drugs, pollution and poor diet.Adjustments correct subluxations which relieve symptoms.

“Structure dictates function,” Montesano says. “Just as in a building, if it is not built properly, it will prematurely deteriorate. Our bodies are no different.”

Steel City Chiropractic’smission is to improve the quality of life in as many people aspossible through education and chiropractic adjustments.

“Our goal is to promotechiropractic care to every family and individual so they can live a happy, healthy life,”Montesano says.

Montesano and his staff strivefor superior patient care andsatisfaction and take care of peopleof all ages, from infancy to theelderly. From the first phone call to the first exam, Steel City Chiropractic’sgoal is to leave a long-lasting impression on everyone who steps foot into the office.

According to the American Chiropractic Association, only 10 percent of the population sees a chiropractor.

“I want to change the mindset of people only coming when in pain.Why only address something when there’s a problem?” he asks. “In anytime of crisis, it requires more time, more money and multiple levels offrustration, much like car trouble, home maintenance and dental issues.”

When it comes to chiropractic care the best offense is a great defense.Prevention with chiropractic care is key in achieving perfect function,better alignment and eliminates pain, Montesano emphasizes. In order to help avoid crisis situations Montesano hopes to help as many people as he can before they get in a situation where they need serious help.

According to The Association of Chiropractic Colleges, chiropractic care focuses on the relationship of structure and function, as coordinatedby the nervous system and how that relationship affects the preservationand restoration of a health.

Chiropractic care restores health and prevents injury by improving the structural integrity of the body, primarily the spine. The braincommunicates with the rest of the body via the spinal cord and nervoussystem. When functioning perfectly, this communication is uninterrupted,and the messages go to and from the brain without interference.

At Steel City Chiropractic, Montesano strives to have a personalrelationship with his patients.

“Everyone has a separate and distinct goal and treatment plan tailored to their individual needs,” he says.

His focus is for each patient to achieve their goal through chiropractic care and the other services he provides.

“The key is looking at the body as a whole. Everything workstogether,” Montesano says. “Our focus is to become the community’swellness center by providing chiropractic adjustments, nutritioncounseling and rehabilitation. The key to optimal health is multifaceted.The more you embrace the higher level of wellness you will achieve.”To learn more about Dr. John Montesano and Steel City Chiropractic,

visit www.steelcitychiropractic.net or call 412-205-3096. Steel City Chiropracticaccepts most major insurances and offers affordable financing according to recommendations for care.

By Becky Mack


Municipal Building3000 Lebanon Church RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Phone: 412.466.8170 Fax: 412.466.8173

AdministrationMayor: Chris Kelly [email protected]

Borough Manager: Richard Janus [email protected]

Administrative Assistant: Anna Marie Kuzma [email protected]

Administrative Assistant: Diane Wrobleski [email protected]

Public Works Director: James Hess [email protected]

Recreation Administrator: Lance Maha 412.464.1918

CouncilPresident: Regis L. Stephenson

Vice President: John T. Munsie

John AndzelikJoseph B. FalceRobert KostelnikMichael OlackRhonda Popovich

DepartmentsRecreation/CommunityDevelopment412.466.8174

Chief Building Inspector: Walter "Butch" Anthony [email protected]

Field Inspector: William L. [email protected]

Public Works412.461.5300

Fire DepartmentsHomeville Volunteer Fire Company #13900 Greensprings AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.461.9475

Duquesne Annex Volunteer FireCompany #21620 Pennsylvania AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.466.7500

Volunteer Fire Company #3 3722 Rodeo DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.469.0219

Skyview Volunteer Fire Company #4660 Noble DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.461.9553

Ambulance ServicePrism Health Services4821 Buttermilk Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Business Office: 412.466.5111Emergency: 911

Police DepartmentChief of Police: Joseph Popovich4733 Greensprings AveWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.461.3125Fax: 412.461.3944Emergency: 911

Elected OfficialsPa State Representative: William C. Kortz38th Legislative District 751 Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd.Dravosburg, PA 15034 Phone: 412.466.1940Fax: 412.460.3023

PA State Senator: Jay Costa, Jr.43rd District3000 Lebanon Church RoadFirst FloorWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.2784Fax: 412.466.2700

West Mifflin Borough


West Mifflin 3000 Lebanon Church Road Suite 300 West Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131

AdministrationSuperintendent: Dr. Janet Sardon412.466-9131 ext. [email protected]

Assistant Superintendent: Dr. Daniel Castagna412.466.9131 ext. 3003

Board Secretary/Business Manager: Mr. Dennis Cmar412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Director of Buildings & Grounds:Mrs. Sandra Wells412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Acting Director of Special Projects: Ms. Mary Jane Hudak412.466.9131 ext. 3028

Director of Technology: Mr. Joel Tachoir412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Director of Security: Mr. Joseph Gajdos412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Public Relations Coordinator /Grant Writer: Mrs. Robyn Tedesco412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

School BoardBoard President:Mr. Michael Price Term Ends: 2013

Board Vice President:Mr. Ted Cale Term Ends: 2013412.466.9131

Mr. Nicholas Alexandroff Term Ends: 2013412.466.9131

Mrs. Kathleen Bracco Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. John Donis Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. Richard Fialkovich Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Dr. Albert Graham Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. Ned Mervos Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. Phil Shar Term Ends: 2013412.466.9131

SchoolsWest Mifflin Area High School91 Commonwealth AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Dr. Mark Hoover

West Mifflin Area Middle School371 Camp Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Acting Principal: Mr. Brian Plichta

Early Childhood Education Center515 Camp Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Superintendent/ECEC Principal ofRecord: Dr. Janet M. Sardon

Clara Barton Elementary764 Beverly DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Mrs. Noelle Haney

New Emerson Elementary1922 Pennsylvania AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Mrs. Cathryn Brundage

Homeville Elementary4315 Eliza StreetWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.461.9131Principal: Melissa Bracco

New England Elementary2000 Clairton RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Mr. Michael Sable

West Mifflin School District


his is a great question people often ask when they enroll in a KungFu or Tai Chi course. Of course, there are many obvious benefitssuch as stress relief, self-defense, and social and sports

aspects, but did you know Kung Fu training is also a greatform of fitness? Kung Fu training is not only great fortoning your body, but it also offers a great cardioworkout. The best part is you get all the othervalues while getting into shape.

Another benefit over the typical gym iswe have professional instructors tomotivate you and keep you on track tomeet your fitness goals. Keep in mind,results don’t happen overnight but youwill start feeling the benefits right away.

Chinese Kung Fu is a fast-pacedcardio workout geared toward selfdefense. Tai Chi (which means GrandUltimate Fist) stresses relaxation, andthe slow-paced postures are great forolder adults looking for a low impact way to get in shape.

Both Kung Fu and Tai Chi offer manygreat physical benefits such as muscle tone,improved flexibility, cardiovascular strength,stress relief, relaxation, coordination, balance,strength, posture, energy, and weight control. Inaddition, there are many mental benefits such asdiscipline, concentration, confidence, awareness, leadership,responsibility, positive attitude, control, and perseverance.

Children benefit because they learn the tools necessary to besuccessful in life. These include the 3 Rules of Concentration, 4 Rules ofDiscipline, 7 Rules of Leadership and the 7 Magic Words. As you knowmost of these attributes are not taught in school, which is one of thereasons for children with poor grades.

When choosing a school, make sure you know what your goals are foryourself or your child. Then explore the different Kung Fu schools

available with those goals in mind. Some might be geared just towards selfdefense, while others might just be concerned about tournaments. Pick a

Kung Fu academy that stresses life improvement over just thephysical techniques.

Before choosing a course, try a free VIP course.The VIP course should allow you to try at least 2

to 4 lessons. This way you can determine whatthe training might involve and if it does

match your goals. Classes should beseparated by age and level of ability. That

allows the instructor to concentrate onthat class’s particular needs. If you’rejust starting, you don’t want to be in aclass with highly skilled black belts,but rather a class of other beginner’slearning the proper way to do thetechniques.

The other great benefit of Kung Fuand Tai Chi is that you’re always

learning something new. So as youworkout and increase your flexibility and

strength, you’re learning new techniquesthat challenge you both mentally and

physically. In addition, you improvecoordination, which helps your muscles work

together for smoother movement and improvedposture. You improve your breathing because Kung Fu and

Tai Chi uses low abdominal breathing for improving the internalorgans. You also learn self defense, which is important for protectingyourself or your loved ones. When starting a Kung Fu or Tai Chi program,it’s important to study at a regular pace. Many students start withenthusiasm that can quickly fade because of over training… just as it wouldbe difficult to go from three meals a day to one meal a day. The mostimportant thing is to have commitment and regular attendance.

a thought, concept, or object formed by the imagination.

Many times, we set goals without even realizingthat’s what we’re doing. Have you ever thoughtabout getting an ‘A’ in math or nailing a

complicated technique in Kung Fu? You knew howexcited you would be when it happened. You dreamed about it. You thought about it every time you were in class. Guess what?

You had a vision to reach a goal.

This Industry Insight was written by Master Rothrock.

Rothrock's Kung Fu & Tai Chi Studio has been offering instruction and training inKung Fu & Tai Chi since 1973. The academy is headed by Master Rothrock with 40 years of experience and has a staff of expert back belt instructors.

3222 Lebanon Church Rd, West Mifflin, PA 15122; 412.469.2427;www.rothrockskungfu.com


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ow that the holidays are behind us,you’re hopefully putting that smoking

credit card back into your wallet or purse fora while. But even though this may be a down timefor you and your credit card, it’s no time tobe lax about your credit card security. So what do you need to know aboutkeeping your credit card safe? First, off, don’tgive yourself a pin number that’s easy toguess. Issuing banks typically assign you arandom pin number when you first get yourcard that you can change later. Keep thisassigned number and avoid picking a pin foryourself like “1234” or your birth date.While it may be easy for you to remember,those choices are also very easy for predatorsto figure out. If you make a lot of online purchases orjust want to dip your toes into the world ofInternet shopping, get yourself a dedicatedcard with a low credit limit. You can open upa secured credit card at most financialinstitutions that require you to deposit abalance to borrow against, allowing you toopen a card with a $500 limit. Your depositwill gain interest and you will be able to useyour card for online purchases. What’s more,most scammers try to run a small purchasethrough before running a larger purchase on

the card. You may not notice a $0.32 chargeright away, but when your bank calls youasking if you tried to purchase a $779 laptop,you’ll be happy your limit was low enough tobe declined. If your credit card number iscompromised, you should call your bankimmediately and report it. While police areable to enforce credit card fraud on a locallevel, with the Internet the person trying torun your numbers may be six states away, ifthey’re in the United States at all. In all cases,the sooner it’s reported,the better. Your bankwill cancel the cardnumber and reissue youanother card. While you’re online,keep in mind that yourbank will most likelynever contact you via e-mail regarding youraccount. If you do get ane-mail from a bank thatyou use, double checkthe address. Chances areit will be slightly askewfrom any legitimateaddress. Instead of“@yourcreditcard.com,”

you may see, “@yourcreditcard1.com” or“@yourcreditcard.uk.” Banks understandthat scammers routinely try to get you togive up your personal information via e-mail.Therefore, most have secured e-mailavailable through their websites, where youcan be sure you’re talking straight tolegitimate bank representatives. Lastly, if you have several credit cards thatyou use often, take the time to flip them overand write down the 1-800 customer servicenumbers on the back and keep that list in a

safe place. It’s also agood idea to keep acopy in your purse orwallet. This way, whenyou notice your card ismissing and are frantic,you can at least go toyour list and call toreport the missingcard.

In the end, youshould treat yourcredit card like youwould treat yourcash—never leave itlying around.

G o o d T i d i n g s f o r t h e G r e a t e s tG e n e r a t i o n

Older Adults inWest Mifflin


f the last time you took holiday photos required clumsilyspooling film into your 35 mm camera, don’t be intimidated by

what technology has done to photography in the past few years. Infact, once you have some basics down, you may find that yourdigital camera is easier to use than you thought. So let’s start at the beginning and go over your new toy fromstem to stern. We can’t gointo detail about everyfeature of every camera, butluckily most cameras sharethe same properties, so wecan cover most scenarios. More than likely, yourcamera came with alithium ion battery packand charger. All you needto know about this is thatthis battery can last along time. Thanks toself-timers built into yourcamera, if you forget to shut it off, it will shut offautomatically for you, saving battery life and allowing you to takethat unexpected shot when the time comes. That said, the batterywon’t last forever, especially if you are shooting with the flash oftenor shooting video, if your camera has that feature. If you knowyou’re going to be somewhere with a lot of natural light, turn yourflash off altogether and shoot longer. The second thing to familiarize yourself with is your memorycard. Cameras come with a variety of memory cards to choosefrom. Regardless of the kind your camera takes, just remember thatbigger is better. A 16 gigabyte memory card can hold hundreds ofphotos, and if you’re not in the habit of printing your photos rightaway or moving them to your computer, the extra space is a must.How many pictures you can store on your memory card dependson your resolution setting for your pictures. Your resolution is howbig the picture is. If you’re shooting for a website, low resolutionsare better because the file size is smaller. However, if you try toprint the same low resolution photo as an 8x10, it will appeardistorted or “pixilated” because the camera wasn’t set to capture allof the fine details of the image. With most point-and-shoot camerason high resolution, you can print very large prints or zoom in tocrop shots for better composition. The last thing to get to know is the USB cable. This is the cablethat came with your camera and connects it to any USB port onyour computer. Through this cable, you can transfer your imagesfor future sorting, correction, or sharing. Believe it or not, once you have those things down, your digitalcamera has many of the same features of your old 35 mm. You canzoom in, set a timer so you have a chance to get into frame, and seta scenic mode where you can select how the camera operates incertain conditions, such as a portrait, sports shot, night shot, orlandscape. Your manual will list the specific icons and theirmeanings. Don’t be afraid to leaf through it if you get stuck.Manuals have come a long way as well and are clearly written forusers of all experience levels.

SeniorAgencies

Transportation For Older AdultsThere are several agencies that offer free or reduced-rate transportation services to individuals who qualify:

Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP)1.888.547.6287Provides non-emergency medical transportationto residents of Allegheny County who have avalid Pennsylvania Department of Public WelfareMedical Assistance Card.

Free Bus Pass for Senior CitizensThe Port Authority allows Allegheny Countyresidents, 65 years of age and older, to ride freeon local public transportation (buses, trolleysand rapid-transit lines). Participants must obtainidentification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportationproviders. Call 412.442.2000 for the locationnearest to you.

Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments,grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and olderwho live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460.

ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation,shared-ride transportation provided throughoutPort Authority’s service area. It serves primarilysenior citizens and persons with disabilities.There are no restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which may be taken by riders, except that riders are required to share their vehicle with others traveling in the same direction and at the same time.

Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needsof our community’s older adults?We would be happy to post your contact information.Contact [email protected] your center’s name and phone number.


Steel Valley Resource Center530 Miller Ave.Clairton, PA 15025412.233.3080

Community Program Extension3075 Clairton Road, Suite 948Century III Mall, West Mifflin, PA 15123 412.532.0142

The Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging’s Dom CareProgram has been in existence for over 30 years providingfoster care homes to adults, age 18 years or older who are notable to live alone. Dom Care has enabled many people to live a comfortable life in safe and nurturing surroundings. Through Dom Care, individuals are matched with familieswho offer a home and assistance with daily activities, as well as support and companionship. The Dom Care Program isparticularly helpful to seniors and people with intellectualdisabilities who might benefit from the care and supervision of a family home. By opening their homes, Dom Care Providers enable theseindividuals to remain within the community in a home-likesetting. Providers are only permitted to care for up to threeresidents. Dom Care providers assist with activities such aspersonal hygiene, grooming and medication management.They also provide three nutritious provide meals a day alongwith housekeeping and laundry services. To become a Dom Care provider an approval andcertification process must be completed. It includes homeinspections by both a care manager and the Allegheny CountyHealth Department. Providers are also required to havecertification in First Aid and CPR. Additionally, they mustpresent personal and financial references, submit to a policerecord search and obtain a medical clearance from a physician.Care managers will assist with this process. Anyone interested in becoming a resident in a Dom Carehome can inquire on their own or can be referred by someoneelse, including family members, health care professionals or agencies that serve people with disabilities. In return for the room, board and personalized care theyreceive, Dom Care residents pay a set monthly fee. Those withlimited income and resources may be eligible for a financialsupplement to assist with the payment and to assure that theyhave personal spending money. The benefits of being a Dom Care provider includecompanionship, support from professional staff, and a monthlypayment for the services they give. Most importantly, it is the feeling of satisfaction and fulfillment for sharing a warmand caring home. To learn more about the Dom Care Program, to make a referral for an individual or to find out how to become aprovider, call the Allegheny County Department of HumanServices, Area Agency on Aging Dom Care Program at 412.350.5105 or visit:http://www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/adultfoster.aspx

Older Adults inWest Mifflin


Kathleen Masley CunninghamNorthwood Realty Services

OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.109CELL 412.916.8117FAX 412.885.1461

EMAIL [email protected]

Pleasant Hills Office 5301 Clairton Blvd. Suite C Pittsburgh, PA 15236

www.northwood.com

Home sellers wanted in the West Mifflin area! Call Kathleentoday to list your home for buyers that are currently looking.

Interest rates are at historic lows, spring is here and make it a great time to buy or sell!

For honest and reliable service

Calvary Baptist Church Walker & Anborn Drives, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.2006www.calvarybaptistwestmifflin.com

Christ Lutheran Church 405 Kennedy Avenue, Duquesne, PA 15110 412.466.7773

First Baptist Church 3427 Cypress Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.2522

Holy Spirit Catholic Church2603 Old Elizabeth Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.894.8805

Holy Trinity Catholic Church 529 Grant Avenue Extension, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.6545

Homeville Christian Church 4702 Eliza Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122

Jehovah’s Witness Pittsburgh Congregation 1075 Camp Hollow Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122, 412.466.2644

Lebanon Presbyterian Church 2702 Old Elizabeth Road, West Mifflin, PA15122 412.466.7184 www.lebanonpc.org

Lincoln Place Church Of The Nazarene 5604 Interboro Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15207 412.461.1133

Morning Star Baptist Church 816 Oak Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.7861

Mount Zion United Church Of Christ 236 Bellwood Drive, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.5202

Resurrection Catholic Church 3909 Donna Avenue, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.8087

St. Agnes Catholic Church 622 St. Agnes Lane, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.2655

St. Rita’s Parish Community 219 West Schwab Avenue, Whitaker, PA 15120 412.461.4204

Terrace Church Of The Nazarene 1815 Worton Blvd., West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.346.0228

Walnut Grove Assembly Of God 44 Adams Avenue, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.469.3010

West Mifflin Community Baptist Church 3813 Fleetwood Drive, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.5924

Whitaker United Methodist Church 124 Arkansas Avenue, Whitaker, PA 15120 412.461.5884


FREE NICOTINE PATCHES OFFERED TO HELP SMOKERS QUITLikelihood of Success Increases with Patches & Counseling

Tobacco Free Allegheny, a non-profit organization affiliated with theAllegheny County Health Department, is announcing that free nicotinereplacement therapy kits are available to help people quit smoking or stop using smokeless tobacco.A four-week supply of nicotine patches can be obtained, while supplieslast, through the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Free Quitline at 1-800-784-8669. Quit coaches ask callers if they are ready to set a quit date and whether theyhave any medical condition that would rule out the safe use of nicotinepatches. In addition, participants will be enrolled in a series of free tobaccocounseling sessions.While it takes most tobacco users an average of five to eight attempts beforethey quit, nicotine replacement therapy with counseling increases thelikelihood someone will be successful in their attempt to go tobacco free.Additional information about the state’s tobacco cessation resources isavailable at www.DeterminedToQuit.com. The website offers guidanceon developing a quit plan, video blogs of people sharingtheir own stories about quitting, as well as informationfor friends and family members who wish to supporttheir loved one’s attempt to quit.

Reach over 23,802 potential customers in West Mifflin

Call [email protected]

ADVERTISE HERE!

At Kaybrook Real Estate, you’ll find inviting hometown service that youmay not get from other agencies. Based in West Mifflin for more than fouryears, Kaybrook is dedicated to ensuring that your needs and goals are metwhen it comes to buying or selling a home. Since they are the only RealEstate office in West Mifflin, who better to serve you!

Founded by Mary Bell, who has 18 years experience in Real Estate, sheworks with her daughter, Jacqueline Derry, and eight other hometownagents. Kaybrook excels in knowing the local market, serving all of WestMifflin, Munhall, Lincoln Place, Duquesne and beyond.

“But we really will go anywhere,” Mary said. “What makes us stand out isthat we’re not too small to get the job done, and we’re not so big thatpersonal service gets lost. Our customers appreciate the fact that there areno extra fees tacked on the commission. We’ve seen other agencies chargefrom $150 to $795 in additional fees at the closing. We just won’t do that!Every dollar counts when you are purchasing a home.”

At any given time, Kaybrook has between 40 and 50 listings on themarket, and the company focuses on residential and commercial sales.

Carlene Oskin, one of the Realtors at Kaybrook, said that people cometo Kaybrook because they are a local agency and their agents have the abilityto really connect with sellers and buyers. “At Kaybrook, we’re like a familyand we treat our clients like family. We remain friends with a lot of them,even getting invited to social events. We actually get a lot of referrals frompreviously satisfied customers.”

While Kaybrook has access to the same tools larger companies have, likethe Multi List, Mary said that Kaybrook probably advertises more for theirclients than their competition...For Free! “Our Realtors advertise weekly inthe Valley Mirror and regularly in the local newspapers. Our listings are puton numerous websites, in addition to our own Website.”

Kaybrook’s agents have been able to hold steady in a market that has feltthe impact of the national real estate woes. Jacqueline added, “We’ve beenlucky! I think that’s because our clients know we are here, we’re accessibleand we get the job done with a smile!”

For more information about listing or buying a home, stop by theiroffice, call 412-469-2340, visit their web site at www.kaybrookrealestate.comor contact a Realtor below.

Matthew Didjunas412-760-5460

Mary C. Bell412-480-7466

Jacqueline Derry412-260-9509

Carlene Oskin412-378-3014

Ken Schweitzer412-377-0505

Patricia Eckert412-403-8683

4 Bedroom 3 ½ Bath $225,000 2 Bedroom 1 ½ Bath $77,900

3 Bedroom 2 Bath $69,000

2 Bedroom 1 Bath $59,000 3 Bedroom 1 ½ Bath $60,000 2 Bedroom 1 ½ Bath $89,900

5055 Buttermilk Hollow Rd. • West Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412-469-2340 • Fax: 412-469-2396 • www.kaybrookrealestate.com

4 Bedroom 1 Bath $83,000

Not Too Big To Provide Personal Service


As with any major purchase, doing yourhomework should be something you do be-fore you sign on a major loan. Never beforehas this been more true than in the housingmarket, where overpricing can create majorheadaches for buyers and sellers.

For sellers, overpricing can mean that yourhome sits on the market longer, raising flagsto potential buyers that something is amiss.For buyers, an overpriced home canmean a loss in seller’s assistance, money that sellerssometimes bring to the table fromtheir profits to help defray closingcosts for the buyer. Worse yet, ifthere is no appraisal contingencyaddendum attached to the agreement of sale, a buyer may beforced to go through with a homepurchase after being told that it is not worthwhat they have agreed to pay.

Sharon Fincham, a Realtor with Prudential Preferred Realty, said that, in addition to including an appraisal contingency addendum to an offer, you need to make sure that your agent is doing the proper legwork before the offer is even made.

“You have to make sure that your agent does comparisons to similar homes in thearea, knows the market, and gets supporting evidence that the house is really worth what it’s being advertised at before you put in an offer,” Fincham said. “If the housedoesn’t appraise for the agreed upon price, it is unlikely that you will receive any seller’s assist.”

What’s more, overpricing is a one-waystreet by way of mistakes. Homeowners wholist their homes for too little may receive multiple offers, allowing the power of freemarket economic supply and demand to take over, driving the price up until it’s comparable to the other homes in the neighborhood.

But there’s no similar failsafe with over-pricing. A home that’s overpriced may get anice offer, but ultimately, the final arbiter ofwhat it’s truly worth is the appraiser, assignedindependently by the bank or lender. Thatappraisal will dictate the future of the sale.

The resulting appraisal could tank the sale altogether, or force buyers to seek extramoney or alternative financing to

compensate for the missed seller’s assistance. Either way, it’s going tomean a hassle for the buyer and frustration for the seller.

However, if an agent does the homework and knows their business,Fincham said the home should belisted at a fair price, resulting in a relatively smooth sale in reasonablelength of time.

“It is now imperative that agents andclients know the recent selling prices of comparable homes,” she said. “Buyers and sellers agreeing on a price is not necessarily enough anymore. The study of a neighborhood before an offer is madecan save everyone involved a lot of grief and frustration.”

For buyers, an overpriced home can mean a loss in seller’s assistance, money that sellers

sometimes bring to the table from their profits to help defray closing costs for the buyer.

R E A L E S T A T E W e s t M i f f l i n


www.incommunitymagazines.com

From pink screwdrivers and mini toolboxes to a surge of female-targeted home improvementsites and guidebooks, the fix-it-yourself revolutionhas come for women in the U.S. More empoweredfemales are taking on household problemsthemselves instead of spending the money to hire a plumber, electrician or contractor.

In fact, a recent study by the Medelia Monitorshowed that more than 60 percent of women aremore likely to tackle the work on their own. Themajority of these women (63 percent) are beingmore resourceful to avoid the high costs of hiring a professional. And 71 percent of women say thedesire to “fix-it-myself” stems from the empoweringfeeling of having the knowledge to improve theirhome.

Sound familiar? If you’d like to empoweryourself and join the fix-it-yourself revolution, startby picking up a few affordable tools and products totackle quick fixes. Here are easy tips for solving fivecommon household problems:

Unstick sticky windows by opening them and rubbing wax or spraying silicone into thetracks on both sides. Move the window up anddown several times to work the wax or siliconelubricant into the frame.

Fix squeaky wood or tile floors by sprinklingbaby powder on the surface of the floor that’ssqueaking. Then place a chisel between the boardsand gently hammer the top to pry up the tile orfloorboard. Sprinkle more baby powderunderneath the board to seal the excess spacecausing the squeaking.

If your drains are draining slowly or cloggedcompletely, try a de-clogging gel that clears thetoughest clogs at a fraction of the cost of a plumberhouse call. Liquid-Plumr’s new Penetrex Gel is afast-acting, powerful formula that can clear thetoughest clogs in just seven minutes.

Mend unsightly holes or tears in your windowscreens by using a screwdriver to straighten thebends in the mesh and dabbing clear nail polish toseal the hole. Allow it to dry. Then repeat the polishapplication until the hole is completely sealed.

A wobbly table leg may seem hard, but it’s asurprisingly easy repair. Just figure out how it’sattached to the seat. Then either screw the leg backinto its socket or glue it back into place.

Fix-it resources abound online and at your localbookstore. But here’s a few to get you started:Facebook.com/LiquidPlumr: Most clogged drains are

caused by hair. Get tips on how to keep all drains clear andwhile you’re there, enter the Big Locks Rock! Contest beforeDecember 15th for a chance to win a trip for four to L.A. toget haircuts by a celebrity stylist. BeJane.com: A site where women of all ages and skill

levels can find answers to home improvement questionsand connect with others for inspiration and advice.“Dare to Repair” by Julie Sussman: This book offers a

“do-it-herself” guide to fixing almost anything in the home.

FEMALE

SOLVE 5 COMMONHOUSEHOLD PROBLEMS

Fix-It-YourselfREVOLUTION

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The first thing you need to consider is the space itself. Is it finished at all? Manyattics in the area are open spaces broken up byroof and flooring joists and wads of insulation.The first thing you want to do is inspect yourattic for leaks and whether those joists arestrong enough to support extra weight.

You can add flooring by screwing downplywood or other subflooring. Avoid nailingmaterials down to prevent damagingthe ceilings underneath you throughthe vibrations of hammer blows.

Once you have your flooring down, youcan decide whether or not you want to finishthe ceiling joists. You can insulate and attachdrywall or plywood to these joists, dependingon how fancy you want to get with thefinished look; or you may decide that havingthe recessed areas between the joists isbeneficial to your storage needs. Keep in mindthat a triangular space is limiting only if youhave boxes or items that you need to storevertically. Items that are smaller and that canbe arranged into nooks and crannies can beideal for these odd-shaped spaces. Also keepin mind that, because of the nature of atticaccess in older homes, the route to your atticmay be through a small trap door in a hallcloset, so items you put in the attic might belimited to long-term or permanent storage,like old college textbooks, holiday decorations,luggage, or all those old National Geographicsthat you can’t throw away because the picturesare too pretty.

If you do have easy access to your attic, either by way of a

dedicated staircase or pull-downsteps, more options may offerthemselves to you. Even tightattics have enough room forseveral two-drawer filingcabinets, allowing you to storemany years’ worth of taxreturns or product manuals.

Easier access means even more versatilitywhen it comes to your storage plan. Ratherthan long term, you can use the space forthings that require infrequent use—bins forextra blankets and pillows for when guests arein town, large children’s toys or games thatdon’t get played with during the school week,and sporting equipment when it’s out ofseason. Storing items like these in the attic willkeep them out of dank basement conditions,and, in the case of linens and sportingequipment, keep the smell of mildew away.

Keep in mind that the attic, while dryerthan the basement, still has its own set ofissues. Temperatures often vary wildly inattics depending on how insulated they are, so items that can’t stand high heat or lowtemperatures – like candles, forinstance – may not fare wellin the attic environment.Each space is different, buteach is unique, and how youuse that space can be a funproject for the whole family.

f you’re more than four feet tall and live in westernPennsylvania, chances are that your attic is not a

comfortable space that you would consider livable.Your attic can be modified, however, by the do-it-yourselfer into more than adequate storage fora variety of your belongings, if you get creative.


When it comes time to plan for the biggest day of your life, you maynot know where to start. Planning a wedding is a challenging, timeconsuming and expensive task, which is why those who can afford itoftentimes hire wedding planners. But for those of us who have to keepan eye on the budget, knowing what to look for in your wedding venuecan save you time and money up front, and less hassle when it’s over.

Obviously, you want to pick a venue suitable to the size of youranticipated invitation list, and you want to pick it early. Popular venuescan be booked well over a year in advance, and if you’re getting marriedon a date that’s unique – like Dec. 12, 2012, or 12/12/12, you’re goingto want to start looking immediately.

Robin Craig, Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe, said couples should plan out 12 to 18 months whenbooking a venue.

“They need to sit down and find out their guest list and theirbudget. Once they determine the guest list, we can start quotingpricing,” Craig said. “Next year , 9/10/11 is a big date, and we’realready booked. Also, 10/11/12 would be a hot date. Our hot monthsare September and October and May and June. If you’re a teacher,June and July are busy months.”

Once you have that location selected and it appeals to your personalsense of style and aesthetics, you should evaluate anything that may be taken for granted, such as ingress and egress and parking. Is the

wedding/reception hall easy to find? Are there covered porticos fordropping off guests in case of inclement weather or for those who havetrouble walking without assistance? Will guests be able to find the halleasily, or is it hidden deep in a labyrinth of hallways? And are therestrooms close by?

“All of our parking is complimentary,” Craig said. “If you want valet,we can provide it for a fee.”

Once you have the building chosen, you should discuss logistics of the day with any facility manager responsible for the site. Importantitems to discuss include catering – can you hire your own caterer or is there a caterer specific to the venue you’ve chosen? Is there anadditional charge for alcohol and can you furnish your own? Will linensbe provided and who will be responsible for setting up and tearingdown the tables and chairs? Is there a suggested room layout forweddings? Having a tried and true seating arrangement for the venuecan save you headaches later on when you’re trying to figure out whereto place the bridal table. Lastly, knowing how early you can arrive and how late you can stay will be crucial information for anyone fromcaterers to your bridal party.

Craig said her venue offers full linens with chair covers, sashes,mirrors, candles and champagne toasts. It also offers complimentarybridal party refresher rooms. They can tray cookies at no charge and provide a gourmet coffee station. It also offers a complimentaryovernight room for the bride and groom.

Lastly, find out all of the financial details up front. Many venues haveservice charges that are above and beyond your bill. Get all of yourcharges in writing, up front before you sign for your venue. You don’twant to find out afterwards that there was a food and beverageminimum that you didn’t attain, or that it was ok for you to bring yourown wine, but forgot to inquire about corking fees.

Craig said service charge at her venue is 21 percent and sales tax is 6percent. They also have food and drink minimums. However, discountsare offered for group room rentals for overnight guests and for off-peakdays and months. Weddings in January-March and November, and those held on Fridays and Sundays, are considered off-peak.

If you do your homework up front, there’s nothing stopping youfrom having the fairytale wedding you’ve always dreamed of. Keep in mind, like any successful marriage, wedding planning is hard work,but work that you’ll reap rewards from in the end.


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