This & That

Bentleyville Volunteer Fire Department's Website

2009-06-14T22:45:00.004-04:00

Visit this website at http://bvfd11.org/and you will have a new appreciation for the men and women at the Bentleyville Volunteer Fire Department who work 24 hours a day to keep us safe. The next time you see one of our firefighters, please make sure to thank them for all that they do.

Fireworks & Activities to be held at Richardson Park on July 11th

2009-06-14T10:06:00.006-04:00

James Muhly Jr. watching last year's fireworks display in Bentleyville

The skies over Bentleyville will be filled with fireworks on July 11.

The display will cap off a day of activities at Richardson park.

The events for the day include:

2 p.m. - Little Miss & Little Mr. Firecracker pageant

3:30 to 4:30 p.m. - Bingo & Games

4 to 5:30 p.m. - Dance shows

5:30 to 6:30 p.m. - Wild World of Animals Show

6:30 t 9 p.m. - Music by Just for Us

7 to 8 p.m. - Barnyard Petting Zoo

Dusk - Fireworks followed by an outdoor movie

There will also be a concession stand and food vendors. Crafters and those interested in selling flea market items are welcome. For more information call, 724-239-2112.

Middle School Graduation, Children's Hospital, Middle School Softball and Pike Days

2009-06-13T07:40:00.009-04:00

Eighth Grade Graduation at Bentworth Middle School

Abby Marodi and Julianna Aguirre graduated from Bentworth Middle School earlier this month.

Some of the fifth graders who attended the eighth grade graduation ceremony.

A Visit to Children's Hospital

Bentworth Middle School students Dia Lusk, Sam Wessel, Morgan Vickless, Kaitlyn Snyder and Kate Marodi visited Children's Hospital in May to deliver the toys they collected at their March birthday party! Congratulations, girls!

Samantha Wessel, Kate Marodi, Dia Lusk, Morgan Vickless & Kaitlyn Snyder in the lobby of Children's Hospital.

Lady Bearcats Beat Undefeated Mikes in Final Middle School Game of the Season!

The Bentworth Middle School softball team, coached by Joe Scorza and Stacey Skerbetz, after their win against Carmichaels, a team that had been undefeated for two years running. Congratulations, Lady Bearcats!

Abby Marodi on first base.

The final score at Carmichaels!

After the win!

A Celebration of the National Road

Part of the Pike Days wagon train that passed through Scenery Hill in May.

Former Castle Blood Building Being Razed after Last Week's Fire

2009-06-07T16:42:00.007-04:00

Photos by Doug Edington, guest blogger

The old Castle Blood building in Bentleyville is being razed this weekend after is was extensively damaged in a fire Tuesday. Seven local fire departments responded to the fire at the abandoned building in the 800 block of Main Street. The blaze is being investigated by the state police fire marshal.

Several years ago the building housed Castle Blood, where haunted tours were held during the Halloween season. Although the sign was still on the building and it still looked pretty haunted, the Castle Blood activities were moved to a building in nearby Beallsville.

For more information on the current Castle Blood in Beallsville, visit http://www.castleblood.com/

2009 Sarris Run for Alex

2009-06-07T07:55:00.008-04:00

The Loos family

State Rep. Tim Solobay and a friend of the Loos family, Lisa Stout-Bashioum

Photos and story by Doug Edington, guest blogger

Early on a misty, fog-shrouded June morning dozens of volunteers gathered before 6 a.m. at the Bentleyville Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall to prepare for the 5th annual Run for Alex.

The run is held each year to raise money for the From Alex With Love Foundation, a scholarship and philanthropic fund founded as a memorial to Bentworth High School student Alexzandra Loos. Loos, a 15-year-old accomplished athlete and student, was killed by a speeding car in August 2004 as she was walking home from Bentworth High School after soccer practice. One of her many accomplishments was that she set a WPIAL track record in the 1600m and placed third in this event at the Pennsylvania Track and Field Championship.

On Saturday, her memory was honored as competition came in from many areas in western Pennsylvania and Ohio. Nearly 800 runners participated in the event. Each year the money raised from the run is used to award scholarships and to help needy families in the area. This year 19 such scholarships were presented to the Bentworth Senior High School graduating class.

The behind the scenes work by the many volunteers made this year's event proceed like a well-oiled machine. The runners that registered on race day were handled quickly and easily. The traffic control by local firefighters and a contingent of Pennsylvania State Police insured the runner's a safe race. Escorts were provided by The Blue Angels Motorcycle Club for the two mile and five mile races. Volunteers had placed water stations at strategic locations along the routes. Emergency Medical Personnel were ready to move immediately if needed.

Click here for more information about the From Alex with Love Foundation.

Traffic control volunteers

Pennsylvania State Police

The Blue Angels who volunteered as escorts for the day

A Traditional Last Day for Bentworth Class of 2009

2009-05-29T15:47:00.005-04:00

Photos and Story by guest blogger, Doug Edington

The Bentworth Senior High School senior class gathered in town and continued the long-time tradition of parading through town while honking and cheering on their last day of school.

Cars were festooned with the happy news painted on windows and the body. Some also sent good cheers to the Pittsburgh Penguins in their quest for the Stanley Cup.

We wish them good fortune and success in their chosen endeavors, especially in this very difficult time for our country.

Memorial Day Photos from Bentleyville, Pa.

2009-05-25T20:01:00.005-04:00

The honor guard from American Legion 165 of Bentleyville.

Samantha Ritzer and fellow members of the Bentworth High School Band.

Ty Pompei and members of the band perform during the ceremony.

State Sen. J. Barry Stout addresses the crowd at the Memorial Day ceremony.

Sarah Tomko of Bentleyville sings the National Anthem.

In Honor of James N. Wheeler, Pvt. Co. D 22, Pa Cavalry, Civil War 1829-1896

2009-05-16T21:22:00.005-04:00

The wind rustled through the trees and a light rain fell Saturday morning during a ceremony for a Civil War veteran at the Letherman-Tombaugh Cemetery in North Bethlehem Township.

The original maker on the grave of James N. Wheeler, a private who served in Company D of the 22nd Ringgold Cavalry, was weathered and difficult to read. So, the members of the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, Camp 120 of Washington, arranged to have a new government-issued bronze marker placed on his grave.

About two dozen people attended the brief ceremony at the Letherman-Tombaugh Cemetery.

A Civil War Ceremony in Scenery Hill, Pa.

2009-05-12T21:30:00.003-04:00

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2009 a group of Civil War enthusiasts will honor James N. Wheeler, a private who served in Company D of the 22nd Ringgold Cavalry.
Kay Stepp, a member of the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, Camp 120 of Washington, said the group will place a government-issued bronze marker on Wheeler's grave. The ceremony, which will include a bagpiper, will be held at the cemetery on Letherman Bridge Road in Scenery Hill.

Congratulations, Brynne Bashioum!

2009-04-09T06:16:00.006-04:00

Photo by Doug Edington

Brynne Bashioum of Bentleyville was named the Washington, Observer-Reporter's Athlete of the Week. Click here to read Joe Tuscano's article about the pitching skills of this Bentworth High School senior.

The Bentleyville Area Historical Society Meeting

2009-03-23T09:53:00.005-04:00

The Bentleyville Area Historical Society meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. tonight at the Bentleyville Public Library. The organization, which also covers the areas of Ellsworth, Cokeburg, Scenery Hill and Somerset Township, meets the fourth Monday of each month. Guests are always welcome and encouraged to attend.

Snapshots from Pittsburgh's St. Patrick's Day Parade

2009-03-14T23:24:00.006-04:00

Punxsutawney Phil made an appearance at the St. Patrick's Day Parade held in downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday.
Ed Ritzer of Scenery Hill, center, marched with the Mon Valley Ancient Order of Hibernians.

The Carrick High School Pipes and Drums provided some of the Irish music for the day.

Bentworth Girls Softball Sign-Ups

2009-01-29T09:07:00.007-05:00

The snow may be flying, but it's time to start thinking about softball.

If your daughter is between the ages of 5 and 18 and would like to play this summer, you will need to register her soon.

Here is the schedule for the Bentworth Girls Softball Sign-Ups, which will be held at the Bentleyville Fire Department's Social Hall:

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31 (receive an earlybird discount of $5.)
$45 slow pitch / $60 fast pitch

1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8 $50 slow pitch / $65 fast pitch

Register after March 1 and a late fee will apply $60 slow pitch / $75 fast pitch

Team sizes are limited and late registration requests will only be accepted on a "team need" basis!

Family Discounts are available. The league will need insurance information and two copies of your daughter's birth certificate

An election for league officers and a coaches meeting will be held from 12:30 to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 8. If you have any questions, call Terri Hughes at 724-239-3333.

The New Bentworth Middle School to Open Monday

2009-01-09T09:39:00.009-05:00

The new Bentworth Middle School on Friday.
Part of the paw print decor at the new school

The old Bentworth Middle School on Friday, the last day of classes.

Teachers are moving boxes into the new Bentworth Middle School as student anxiously count the days until the school officially opens Monday.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held last night at the $17 million state-of-the-art school, complete with paw print embellishments and accents of black and gold. Students, who visited the building earlier in the week, eagerly gave their parents, siblings and grandparents the grand tour.

Today, the fifth and sixth graders will say goodbye to the elementary school across the street, while the seventh and eighth graders will leave behind the worn-out middle school in Ellsworth.

Buses will pull into the loop in front of the new school early Monday and the students will quickly begin making memories in their new educational home. Hopefully, they will realize that they are lucky and privileged to live in a community that is willing to give them one of the best schools money can buy.

Looking for a great place to eat? Try Roland's Trattoria in Washington, Pa.

2009-01-03T12:08:00.003-05:00

I’ve never done a restaurant review before, but today I feel compelled to share our recent experience at Roland’s Trattoria in Washington, Pa.
We were looking for a place to join some good friends for dinner, but we have grown a bit tired of dining at the same old chain restaurants. My friend Kim suggested a place in Washington that I had never heard of. But, I figured that if our Italian friends were recommending an Italian restaurant then it must be worth a visit. We agreed to meet at Roland’s at 5:30 p.m.

The restaurant was a little difficult to find at 2800 West Chestnut Street in North Franklin Township. But, once we were inside I noticed the restaurant’s bar had a rustic, old pizza-parlor look. The hostess guided us toward the back dining room, which had high ceilings and a very open feel. The patrons inside looked comfortable, as they weren’t being squished into booths or crowded around the tiny tables that are the norm at some of the chain restaurants.

As we looked over the menu we noticed a warning that a 45-minute wait for orders could be expected if the restaurant was crowded. Well, the restaurant was crowded and we did wait awhile. My husband didn’t like the wait, but I didn’t mind. After all, we were with good friends and there was an unending supply of warm Italian bread and drinks.

The salad that came with my meal was excellent and the house dressing proved to be the perfect blend of vinegar, oil and spices. When the waiter appeared at the table with our order we were struck by the sight of the extremely large portions. I knew my kids would never be able to finish their meals.

I ordered the chicken Marsala, which came with a side order of green beans and a huge order of pasta. Tim ordered the veal parmigiana; Abby ordered the Italian hoagie (it was huge) and fries; Kate, who is never daring when it comes to restaurant food, ordered the chicken strips and fries. Kim had chicken Romano and I believe Tony had veal. Their kids ordered sandwiches. I think the men finished their meals, but the rest of us left with take-out boxes. We didn’t have room for desserts, but the homemade apple pie, Italian crème pie and tiramisu looked delicious.

So, if you are looking for a great place to go for delicious homemade food and reasonable prices take the drive to Roland’s Trattoria. Just don’t go if you are in a hurry, because this definitely isn’t a fast food restaurant with a “get them in and ship them out” attitude. This is a place where the food and the relaxed atmosphere are something to be savored.

You don’t need reservations at Roland’s Trattoria, but if you would like to call the restaurant the number is 724-250-9275. You can also visit their website at http://www.rolandstrattoria.com/ to see their full menu.

If you make the trip, please post a comment to let me know about your experience.

Enjoy!

Vandals Target St. Luke Cemetery in Bentleyville

2008-12-21T21:59:00.006-05:00

The Rev. Gary Krummert of the Ave Maria Parish inspects some of the damage caused by vandals over the weekend.

Vandals armed with a can of spray paint and a lack of respect committed a disgraceful crime at the St. Luke Cemetery at the Ave Maria Parish in Bentleyville, Pa. over the weekend.

Rev. Gary W. Krummert, the pastor of the parish, announced from the pulpit Sunday morning that someone had defaced a statue of Jesus. A further inspection of the grounds revealed that the vandals had also painted graffiti on about eight monuments in the tiny cemetery.

The Pennsylvania State police were called to investigate and Rev. Krummert vowed to prosecute those connected to the crime.

Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact the state police in Belle Vernon at 724-929-6262.

Thompson-Marodi Funeral Home Kicks Off Cell Phones for Soldiers Campaign

2008-12-17T10:04:00.005-05:00

More than 150,000 troops are serving overseas and are away from their families. Cell Phones for Soldiers, and Thompson-Marodi Funeral Home, Inc. of Bentleyville are calling on all Americans to support for these brave men and women by donating your unused cell phones. Cell Phones for Soldiers hopes to collect over 50,000 cell phones this year to help keep troops connected with their families.

“Over the past few years, we have been amazed by the generosity of others. But, we have also seen the need to support our troops continue.” says Brittany Bergquist, Cell Phones for Soldiers co-founder. “It is easy for Americans to make a small sacrifice of support by donating their unused cell phones, and providing families with a much-needed connection to their loved ones overseas.”

Local residents can support the collection drive by donating their phones at the Thompson-Marodi Funeral Home, Inc., 809 Main Street, Bentleyville.

“We’re proud to show our support for U.S. soldiers, and to contribute to a worthy cause like Cell Phones for Soliders,” says Tim Marodi, the director of the funeral home.

Cell Phones for Soldiers was founded by teenagers Robbie and Brittany Bergquist from Norwell, Mass., with $21 of their own money. Since then, the registered 501c3 non-profit organization has raised almost $1 million in donations and distributed more than 500,000 prepaid calling cards to soldiers serving overseas.

“We are continuously overwhelmed by the enthusiastic support of thousands of Americans who have helped our troops speak with their loved ones,” says the teens’ father, Bob Bergquist. “However, the need for support keeps growing as more soldiers are sent to the Middle East or are asked to serve extended tours of duty.”

Through increased fundraising efforts, the Bergquist family hopes to raise more than $9 million in the next five years to fund new programs, such as providing video phones and prepaid service to allow soldiers abroad to see their families on a regular basis.

The donated phones are sent to ReCellular, which pays Cell Phones for Soldiers for each phone – enough to provide an hour of talk time to soldiers abroad.

Approximately half of the phones ReCellular processes are reconditioned and resold to wholesale companies in over 40 countries around the world. Phones and components that cannot be refurbished are dismantled and recycled to reclaim materials, including: gold, silver and platinum from circuit boards, copper wiring from phone chargers, nickel, iron, cadmium and lead from battery packs and plastic from phone cases and accessories.

The teens started the program after reading a story about a soldier who ran up a huge phone bill calling home from Iraq. They started by opening an account with $21 of their own money. The cell phones are recycled for cash and the proceeds are used to buy prepaid calling cards for our soldiers serving in the Middle East. Cell Phones For Soldiers is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Their efforts have motivated people and businesses around the country to donate to this worthy cause. Their goal is to provide every US soldier with a way to call home for free. For more information, please visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com or contact the Thompson-Marodi Funeral Home Inc. at 724-239-2255 or info@thompson-marodi.com

Thank You!

2008-12-15T20:15:00.004-05:00

I just want to thank everyone who cooked pasta, stirred sauce, waited tables, washed dishes, baked cakes and pies, served desserts, made baskets and did whatever else they could to make the Lovett benefit dinner a success.

We served at least 650 spaghetti dinners and were able to present John and Dawn and their family with a generous donation.

John, who is recovering from a recent surgery to remove a brain tumor, can stop worrying about the bills; Dawn can focus on the upcoming birth of their new baby; and their three daughters can have a wonderful Christmas.

So, if you helped in any way, please take a bow. You were wonderful. You worked hard and never complained. You gave of your time selflessly. You led by example and took care of your neighbors. You made this Christmas one to always remember.

Merry Christmas.

Randi

Winter's Artful Touch

2008-12-12T21:54:00.003-05:00

by Doug Edington, guest blogger

As people left Bentworth Senior High School following a disappointing girls basketball game last evening it was through a very heavy driving rain. This morning everyone woke to a winter wonderland, so to speak.

A heavy wet snowfall through the night created problems driving and in some places, walking. But it created a whole new world outlined in the snow. Empty tree branches, power lines, telephone lines, traffic signs, and Christmas decorations were topped with a white puffy layer of snow.

In Richardson Park it left evidence of small and large animals that had come to walk with their owner, or crossed the baseball diamond to get to the creek for a drink, and in one area, a raccoon visited the swollen creek perhaps looking for breakfast. All left the evidence with their footprints in the snow.

Ellsworth Fishing Club had human visitors but not fishermen. It, too, was a tranquil, peaceful, outdoor picture of Mother Nature doing her thing.
In front of the Tappin' Toes Dance Studio Michelle Alton, owner of the studio, was doing her thing with a snow shovel.

Raggedies Ready for a Good Cause! Get Your Tickets at the Lovett Dinner Chinese Auction...

2008-12-10T11:32:00.005-05:00

These Christmas Raggedies are finally ready for the Chinese Auction at Sunday's benefit dinner for the Lovett family.

The dolls, accompanied by a Raggedy Ann & Andy Read Aloud Treasury Book, are just one of the many items to be auctioned. Some of the other baskets will contain lotions, candles, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Christmas decorations, games, Party Lite items, a set of polka compact discs and a compact disc player and many other items. One of the most sought after baskets will be the one that contains a $500 gift certificate for Nemacolin Woodlands.

You will be able to purchase two tickets for $1 or 15 tickets for $5, so bring your appetite and your wallet when you come to the dinner. Raggedy Ann & Andy will be waiting for you.

The winners will be announced at 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Good luck!

Yes, It is a Wonderful Life

2008-12-09T09:50:00.002-05:00

by John Lovett, guest blogger

George Bailey has always been a hero of mine. If you have never heard of George Bailey, I suggest you stop reading this right now, find a copy of Frank Capra’s “It’s A Wonderful Life,” sit with your family, and enjoy one of the greatest holiday movies of all time.

You see, George comes from a very small town, much like ours, called Bedford Falls. As a young man, George has some big plans for his life. “To shake the dust of this little town and see the world,” is one of his famous quotes. Well, as we all know, life happens to George, and he spends all of it in that small town, running his family’s savings and loan.

One event after another sends George in a downward spiral, until he makes the ultimate wish of never being born. His fumbling guardian angel, Clarence, takes him on a journey to see what the world would be like without him.

After witnessing these events, George realizes the blessings that he took for granted each day: the blessing of family, the blessing of friends, and the blessing of community. They were always there for him, although the desperate times clouded his vision.

The classic scene of George running down Main Street of Bedford Falls, screaming hello to each store, renewing his life, and giving thanks for where he lives, forever lives with me as one of the best-shot scenes in film history.

Over the past few months, and years, it seemed that my life was on the same downward spiral. One event after another seemed to cast a shadow over the Lovett household. I was slowly turning into a modern day George Bailey. Not knowing how much more our small family could take before we could not take anymore.

The miracle news of our newest addition to our family, our fourth little girl, was overshadowed in October by the news of a mass found on my pituitary gland. The tumor was rather large, and had already begun to destroy the optic nerves. The doctors were actually amazed that my vision was still intact. This brain tumor was causing a condition called, Acromegaly. Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder, caused by the tumor that results from too much growth hormone (GH) in the body. Physical deformities, cardiac enlargement/dysfunction, and the destruction of the liver, had already begun to happen. Needless to say, our heads were sent spinning.

Dawn was on top of things, locating the best care for the removal of the tumor. She did not have to look much further than Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. Dr. A. Kassam, associated with U.P.M.C., was an innovator in a new procedure, which was minimally invasive in removing the tumor through the nasal cavity. Past procedures for this tumor required removal of the top of the skull, as well as portions of the forehead, and cheekbones to get to it. Thank God for Dr. Kassam. (We knew that this was the doctor when, on our first visit, feeling very overwhelmed, Dr. Kassam turned to me and said, “You know, you have a beautiful nose! I could get your gall bladder out through that thing!” Thank God for humor!)

Well, in this small community, news spreads quickly. I must also say that in this small community, people jump into action quickly. Having heard of our situation, a group of friends decided to put together a benefit dinner for our family. With gratitude, and awe, we heard plans of this dinner growing and spreading, even before I went in for the procedure. The community was coming together, and the support, and prayers from all involved were making our family stronger. Thank God for our friends and community.

On November 10, I underwent the six and a half hour operation. The tumor was completely removed, and my hormone levels were already starting to fall immediately after the surgery. All great news! With Dawn, and countless members of my family, I started to undergo the healing process.

The pain that was felt on the day of the surgery, and the following day was excruciating. But, as the days went on, the pain subsided, and I started to feel better. Getting to come home three days after the surgery was a miracle. I was now on the road to recovery.

I will have to follow up with Dr. Kassam very frequently for the next several years. If one cell was left, there is a slight chance that it might return. They want to stay on top of this, and I am thankful for that.

Upon arriving at home, I was treated as king of the castle by my wife and daughters. Not being able to lift anything over five pounds, bend at the waist, or drive, I was, and am currently, pretty much relying on them to do what I needed done. With Dawn carrying our little girl, this of course was, and is, very hard on her, but she has gone above and beyond what she needed to do. I am so thankful to her, and owe her so much. My love for her grows deeper with each passing moment.

The cards, and e-mails, started rolling in. From family, friends, co-workers, and strangers, they were lifting our family’s spirits. The joy of friendship was having its own healing power on me, and giving our family strength. So many people were reaching out to us, in so many ways, that we simply became speechless.

Now, with the benefit dinner rapidly approaching, miracles are happening daily. We were so honored, and touched by the community’s generosity, that we thank God each day for everyone here. So much good has come from this, and please; do not take this from a materialistic standpoint.

You see, I think we were sent this obstacle to see the blessings that we have in our lives at this very moment. I was beginning to become George Bailey, being overcome by the day-to-day stresses, and the mountain of obstacles that our small family was encountering. I do believe that this tumor was my “Clarence.” It showed me the strength of the love of my wife and daughters. It showed me the strength of my family. It showed me the strength of my Faith. It showed me the strength of my friends. Also, it showed me the strength of our small community - a community that I am so glad to call home.

Santa's Arrival in Bentleyville

2008-12-01T12:09:00.005-05:00

By Doug Edington, guest blogger

Early morning on Saturday, Nov. 29, began a long and busy day for the members of the Bentleyville Recreation Board and other volunteers. The conversion of Richardson Park into a cheery and bright pre-Christmas setting involved creating a warm enclosure for people to sit and have a little talk with Santa Claus. It involved many decorations, both purchased and previously handmade by members of the recreation board. It involved the stringing of hundreds of decorative lights, converting a pavilion into a gingerbread house, creating lighted walks, installing inflated displays, gathering firewood for three fire pits to offer some defense against the biting cold, handing visitors gift bags from Santa, and gingerbread cookies from the Gingerbread House.

Many people enjoyed the free "hay ride" around the park in a wagon pulled by a team of beautiful, white Percheron Draft horses. The quests also enjoyed bonfires that created a cheerful setting and a place for friendly gatherings.

Shop Locally for Christmas Greenery at The Martin Farm in Scenery Hill

2008-12-01T09:04:00.007-05:00

Brenda Martin of Scenery Hill is busy cutting pine on her little farm in Scenery Hill to make beautiful Christmas greenery. She took a break from her work last week to go to the grocery store, where I bumped into her. She gave me some business cards and I offered to post some pictures of her work on the blog. This morning I was surprised to see that she started her own blog, The Martins, and included pictures. So, go green, shop locally and give Brenda a call at 724-554-8595 if you are looking for Christmas wreaths, grave blankets, grave pillows, crosses, centerpieces and garland. She even offers shipping. The Martin Family farm is located on Letherman Bridge Road in Scenery Hill. You can also contact Brenda by emailing her at
gbjcwc@bentcom.net

Happy Thanksgiving from Tim, Randi, Abby & Kate

2008-11-27T13:01:00.000-05:00

Holiday Shopping Advice...

2008-11-25T06:15:00.000-05:00

The gloom and doom on the financial front can make the prospect of holiday shopping scary. But, believe it or not, you can stop clutching your wallet, because there is a way to survive the holidays without having to ask for a government bailout in February. Now, take a deep breath and pay a visit to The Gift Therapist . Apparently, Jennifer Melnick of Belle Vernon has shopping down to an art and has found a way to give, save money and even donate to a charity. As I type this, Channel 4 is doing a segment on her. I believe she just purchased seven gifts for about $100!!! Oh, and one of her favorite places to shop is Gabriel Brothers. Remember, before you go shopping, take a hint from the old guy and make a list and check it twice. It will save you time and money. Good luck and happy shopping!

Pittsburgh's Snapshot 250 Features Work from Bentleyville

2008-11-20T21:57:00.000-05:00

This afternoon my daughter Abby and I traveled into Pittsburgh with Doug Edington to take part in the unveiling of Pittsburgh's Snapshot 250 display at the Port Authority's Steel Plaza Station.

Doug and I had photos selected for the display - mine (No. 65) was a photo of my daughter Kate standing by the Smithfield Street Bridge during the 2006 St. Patrick's Day Parade; Doug's (No. 58) was a shot of the Pittsburgh 250 fireworks display. Over 600 photos were submitted and the final 250 images were selected by faculty members of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh to commemorate the city's 250th anniversary. To see the rest of the photos visit the Snapshot250 website.

According to the website, "The Art Institute of Pittsburgh presents Snapshot 250. A unique public art project designed to commemorate our city’s milestone anniversary, produced in cooperation with the Pittsburgh 250 Commission, the Allegheny Conference on Regional Development and the Port Authority of Allegheny County. 250 images were selected to represent our collective impressions. Pittsburgh’s past, present and future, the snapshots will come together in a unique public art installation inside Steel Plaza Station in November 2008."

Can you help this local bird?

2008-11-19T22:55:00.000-05:00

by Doug Edington, guest blogger

This mockingbird was captured with camcorder and digital 35mm photos. He appeared as a Hot Shot in the Observer-Reporter this past summer. This morning, with the thermometer reading 24 degrees, he is still hanging out in our Holly tree. I'd like to feed him if I can find what makes up their diet. Any help would be appreciated. I 've done some searching but haven't found their feeding habits.

Doug Edington f1002000@bentcom.net

Bentleyville Area Historical Society's 2009 Calendars Now Available

2008-11-19T21:51:00.000-05:00

The Bentleyville Area Historical Society’s 2009 calendars are now on sale. The calendar, the fourth in a series, is a tribute to local firefighters and features photos of the Bentleyville, Ellsworth and Cokeburg volunteer fire departments. The calendars are $10 each and are being sold locally at Andrachick’s Barber Shop at 204 Oliver Avenue, Bentleyville, which is open Tuesday through Saturday. Those who wish to have a copy mailed to them can send an email to rossmarodi@bentcom.net There will be an additi0nal charge for shipping and handling.

Candlelight & Carols in the Village of Scenery Hill

2008-11-19T21:21:00.000-05:00

The historic Century Inn in Scenery Hill, Pa.

The Scenery Hill Guild is hosting it's annual Candlelight & Carols Holiday Open House from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28 and Saturday, Nov. 29, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30. For more information, contact the sceneryhillguild@aol.com or 724-945-5116

Spaghetti Dinner Being Planned to Help Local Family

2008-11-19T19:18:00.000-05:00

Ladies from the Methodist and Presbyterian churches are making cakes and pies and local scouts are making holiday place mats while their mothers are out gathering items for Chinese auction baskets. Although Thanksgiving and Christmas are fast approaching, these people aren’t planning a holiday party. Instead, they are helping friends in need.

The Knights of Columbus lent us their social hall and dozens of people from the area are planning a spaghetti dinner fundraiser to help John and Dawn Lovett and their three beautiful daughters. John, who will soon turn 36, recently had a brain tumor removed. Although he is home recuperating, he will not be able to teach his fourth graders at McMurray Elementary School for several weeks, thus leaving him with a significant salary reduction. To make the situation even more stressful, his wife Dawn, a stay-at-home mom, is expecting their fourth child at the end of January.

So, like good friends do, the people of the Bentleyville area are rallying behind this family. We know we won’t be able to solve the Lovett family’s problems, but it doesn’t hurt to help.
If you would like to help, just buy a ticket or two and mark Sunday, Dec. 14 on your calendar. The dinner is being held from noon to 5 p.m at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 208 Abromaitis Street, Bentleyville. Tickets for adult dinners are $6 each, while dinners for children 10 and under are being sold for $3. Please bring your own containers for take-out orders. Also, please keep in mind that the Knights of Columbus Hall holds a limited number of people, therefore dinner guests might experience a bit of a wait.

Just drop me a line at rossmarodi@bentcom.net because the tickets are in and ready to be sold!