December 2004

Local News : APOLLO BRIDGE DEDICATION PLANNED

To commemorate the life of Apollo Patrolman Leonard C. Miller a very special ceremony will be held January 3rd, 2005 to dedicate the newly completed bridge that connects Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties and everyone is invited.

Local News : Missions Outreach
The Christian Missionary Alliance focuses on teaching the church and the community all about missions. Many of the missionaries that are supported out into the field for four years after training and . . .

Local News : Arbor Agency Provides Win Win Situation
The Arbor Agency, a partner within the CareerLink, provides a paid work activity for clients to work at a work site without charge to the employer. Consequently, this is a “win-win” situation . . .

Local News : A-K Valley Heritage Museum
There is much to see at the A-K Valley Heritage Museum. There are wonderful historical murals and a village in the basement that contains individual rooms from homes and offices. They each contain antique items from different times in the early 20 th century.

Local News : Local Residents Write Special Dedication
A touching tribute was written regarding Leonard C. Miller. A new bridge named after him will be dedicated on January 3, 2005.

Local News : Housing Community Sells Out in Record Time
Maronda is building houses at record pace in Upper Burrell in a housing plan called Chapeldale. Chapeldale features home in the range of . . .

Local News : Alle-Kiski CareerLink Has Special Program
The Arbor Agency in partnership with the Alle-Kiski CareerLink a special opportunity. It is a program for youth who reside within the Allegheny and Westmoreland county areas within the Alle-Kiski region.

Local News : Cavaliers Dismantle Wolverines
Kiski Area Cavaliers continued wisking their way through opponents as they easily snared the Woodland Hills Wolferines Wednesday night at the Cavalier gym, 69 to 6.

Local News : HOPE Center Teams with Wireless Zone
Six local Wireless Zone stores will be implementing a new fundraiser that will benefit victims of domestic violence. Wireless Zone will make a $20 donation in your name to the HOPE Center for every . . .

Local News : Dr. Newheart's Christmas Cure
This past Friday, December 17, 2004, Dr. Newheart’s Christmas Cure was performed with a full house. The performance took place at Grace Community Cathedral in Vandergrift, PA.

Local News : Dazzling Display of Lights at Hartwood Acres
Hartwood Celebration of Lights is an awe-inspiring and magnificent display of lights you probably will ever see. The lights go on for 3 ½ miles

Local News : Kiski Area School District Christmas Telethon
The Kiski Area School District Christmas Telethon is an annual student-produced event. The main events took place this week (December 13 to 17) on Channel 8 and live web cast from HighVision Studios in Vandergrift.

Local News : ExxonMobil Grants $500 to Plum High School
Plum High School has received a $500 grant from the ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Program to support the school's general education programs.

Local News : Allegheny Township News
Two practice football fields, one game field, one softball field, and a concession stand are some of the features that will be in the new sports area.

Local News : Kiski Area Wrestling Won a Close Victory
Kiski Area Wrestlers won second of two matches in 24 hours as they romped to a 69-10 victory over Penn Hills.

Local News : From Hobby to Career
It takes a dedicated person and a selfless focus to give back to the community. Josephine Guy of the Community Health Clinic in New Kensington is one of those amazing dedicated persons.

Local News : Local Company Teams Up with KDKA for Fund Drive
Highland Tire will be welcoming KDKA Radio to Natrona Heights on Friday, December 17, 2004 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Joining Highland Tire for a two hour personal appearance will be Shelley Duffy, who works along side Larry Richert and John Shumway.

Local News : Fundraiser for the Victorian
Vandergrift Museum & Historical Society
Each year the Victorian Vandergrift Museum & Historical Society has a fundraiser. This is usually done be having a Victorian Home tour through the town of Vandergrift that includes about five homes. But this year they tried something different.

Local News : Overly's Country Christmas
This holiday season treat your family to a fun evening at Overly’s Country Christmas. Start with a relaxing ride through the park filled more lights than you can ever imagine.

Local News : FEMA to Help Local Township with Road Repairs
FEMA is working with the township on 12 plus locations and Pine Camp Road is one of them. This repair will cost close to . . .

Local News : Township Road Repair on Track for Completion
On September 17, 2004, many roads and bridges in the area were washed out. Copeland Road in Allegheny Township (off Melwood Road) was completely washed out.

Local News : Local Churches and City Promote Unity
An annual event "provides opportunity for people of Lower Burrell to be involved with the true spirit of the season," says Reverend Warren Jones of Bethel United Methodist Church. "It is a chance to get together with neighbors."

Local News : Area Churches Establish Emergency
Fund For Burned Out Vandergrift Families
*Vandergrift* - It is difficult for us to imagine the tragedy of watching your home burn and suddenly find yourself without a home, clothing, furniture and the necessities of life. Last Tuesday, November 30th, there was not one home, but four that burned.

Local News : Local Children's Puppet Team a Success
Instead of children having to be looked after while their parents were at a reglular church meeting, Sue Milligan of Kiski Valley Presbyterian Church, decided to do something different and creative.

Local News : St. Joseph High School Boy of the Year
St. Joseph High School senior and Sarver resident John Levri was named the St. Joseph High School Boy of the Year by the Allegheny Valley Optimist Club. The service organization’s goal is . . .

Local News : Leonard C. Miller:
A Bridge to the New Generation
January 3, 2005, marks the 25th Anniversary when Apollo Patrolman Leonard C. Miller was killed in the line of duty and sacrificed his life for the community.

Local News : Visit Historic Saltsburg
It is easy to believe how the 200 year old town of Saltsburg got its name. A woman name Mrs. Deemer, had an amazing but simple discovery after boiling water from a local well.

Local News : Local Wrestling Tournament
Brings People Together
This past Saturday, November 27, 2004, the new gym at the Kiski Area High School hosted the annual "Kiski Area Open Tournament" for wrestlers ages 6 to 15. This is fundraising event that attracts wrestlers from school districts all over the area.

	November 2004

Local News : Homes Destroyed In Fire
An abandoned home on Layfayette Street, Vandergrift caught fire at approximately 11am today.

Local News : Local Flood Victim is Blessed
A local New Kensington family was homeless for over two years and then was blessed with a new home. Tragically everything was lost on September 17, 2004 . . .

Local News : Healthsouth Harmarville Informs About Strokes
Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability in the United States. There are approximately 700,000 new and recurrent strokes each year and approximately 4.4 million stroke survivors who continue to live in the aftermath of stroke.

Local News : Apollo Historical Society Has Great History
In the early 1970’s the Apollo Historical Society was formed. The Society was originally formed to preserve Drake’s Cabin.

Local News : HEALTHSOUTH HARMARVILLE's STROKE
PROGRAM 1ST IN THE COUNTRY AWARDED
CERTIFICATION FROM JOINT COMMISSION
By demonstrating excellence in the delivery of stroke rehabilitative services, HEALTHSOUTH Harmarville Rehabilitation Hospital is the first . . .

Local News : Future of Westmoreland Agriculture
The "Future of Westmoreland Agriculture" -- an all-volunteer, community-wide effort under way to strengthen and sustain Westmoreland County's farming industry . . .

Local News : Forty Local Martial Arts Students
Win Awards at World Championship
In the beginning of November, Philip Ameris’ Cho’s Tae Kwon Do Center in New Kensington recently had a contingent of 40 people travel from the Alle-Kiski Valley to Ireland to participate in the AIMAA (Action International Martial Arts Association) Second Annual World Championships.

Local News : A Goal of Two Houses to be Built
by Habitat for Humanity Next Year
The sixth house (first for next year) that this local chapter will be breaking ground on will be in West Tarentum. It is called the Mills House. It is being sponsored by the Mills, who donated . . .

Local News : Youth Football Players and
Cheerleaders Receive Awards
Saturday, November 20, 2004, the Kiski Valley Lancer youth cheerleaders and football players had their year end celebration. For the last three years the Lancer organization has done something a little different for the kids who play for them.

Local News : II-VI Visits With the Community
This week, two members of the Sales and Marketing Group of II-VI Incorporated visited with residents of the Concordia Lutheran Ministries facility in Cabot, Pennsylvania.

Local News : Food Drive Success Comes From
13th Annual Model Train Display
"This is a great time for fellowship and we have gotten new members from this event. We love watching all the kids come in and see their eyes swell up," says Doug.

Local News : DYI network came to town!!
DYI came to town to film an interesting story on how a family of 9 was blessed by a 5 bedroom 2 1/2 bedroom home. Read on to find out more . . .

Local News : COUNTY PLANNING PROCESS DRAWING TO A CLOSE
Westmoreland County will conclude its comprehensive planning process by presenting its proposed comprehensive plan at a public hearing on Monday, November 22, 2004 . . .

Local News : Special Honor For Local Teacher
Jane, who died July 17, 2004, Jane initiated the tradition of signing new yearbooks prior to St. Joe's annual pick-up football game, which serves as a virtual "homecoming" for alumni and students.

Local News : Celebration for New Local Homeowner
For many, owning a home is a dream. Shawnda Bucker had her dream come true Saturday, November 13, 2004, when she received the keys to her new home at 2662 Princeton St., in Lower Burrell. This single mother of four . . .

Local News : History of Saltsburg VFD
Ever since the late 1800’s the Saltsburg Volunteer Fire Department has been official. It was 1922 when the Fire Company became formally chartered. This VFD serves about 5000 people in and around this rural/residential area consisting of approximately 65 square miles.

Local News : Ham Radio is There in the Midst of Disaster
In the midst of disaster, when most other communications fail, Ham Radio is often used. It gets the messages through. It is also a fun hobby for many people around the world. There is a local club in New Kensington, called Skyview Radio Society . . .

Local News : StrongLand Begins Planning the
2005 HomExpo . . . . We Invite You to Take Part!
Show the region’s consumers that you and your business are eager to serve them and acquire exhibition space at the StrongLand Chamber 2005 HomExpo, scheduled for April 1, 2, 3, 2005 at the Valley Sports Complex in Lower Burrell.

Local News : APOLLO BRIDGE DEDICATION PLANNED

To commemorate the life of Apollo Patrolman Leonard C. Miller a very special ceremony will be held January 3rd, 2005 to dedicate the newly completed bridge that connects Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties and everyone is invited.

Local News : Local School Still in Need
after September 17th Flood
The flood of September 17th, 2004 affected many in the area. The Newport Business School in New Kensington was hit pretty hard. Patricia Lattanzio, the Chief Operations Coordinator of the Northern Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce, had first hand opportunity to see the devastation at the Newport Business School in New Kensington.

Local News : MARONDA HOMES MIXER FOR
STRONGLAND MEMBERS A SUCCESS
Nearly 40 StrongLand Members turned out on Wednesday, October 20th when Maronda Homes, literally, opened its doors (about ten in all) to the StrongLand Chamber of Commerce.

Local News : Forbes Road Career
and Technology Center Presents Career Education Expo
A "first" program on career planning will be held by the Alliance for Career education on Wednesday, November 17, 2004 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at the Forbes Road Career and Technology Center in Monroeville on Beatty Road.

Local News : FUTURE OF WESTMORELAND AGRICULTURE (FWA)
Attention farmers and all those who care about our community’s rural heritage.... The Future of Westmoreland Agriculture (FWA) program is being launched to understand and address the challenges and opportunities facing the farming community in Westmoreland County.

Local News : Lower Burrell Suggests Safety Practices
With the recent car thefts in the area this would be a good time for residents to take a hard look at their own safety practices when it comes to securing your property.

Local News : Great Outdoor Events for November Weekends
Get in some great weekend activities before the weather gets cold. If you like the cold, the events continue into December. Great Activities for the experienced and the beginners.

Local News : CRAFT SHOW AND BAKE SALE
FOR THE HOLIDAYS
On November 13, 2004 the Vandergrift First United Methodist Church, will be having a Holiday Craft Show. There will be refreshments in the church kitchen and a wonderful bake sale.

Local News : UpBuilding Weekend with Dr. Ron Rand
The Vandergrift, Methodist Church, Lincoln and Custer Ave, Vandergift, will host Dr. Ron Rand, well known minister, author, conference speaker and Director of Upbuilding Ministries , International. Dr. Rand’s mission is to upbuild . . .

Local News : Plum High School Prepares
for New SAT Format
Are you ready for the new SAT? Some schools are offering seminars on how to survive this new testing format.

Local News : Look Up Your Revolutionary War Ancestors!
From 11:30 to 1:00pm on Saturday, November 13, 2004, Chapter’s Books & Music in the Hillcrest Shipping Center, Lower Burrell, will have members of the Massy Harbison-Fort Hand Chapter of the NSDAR (National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution) on hand.

	October 2004

Local News : New Ownership for "The Paw Print"
The Paw Print is under NEW ownership! Sharon McKelvey Wiskeman recently became the new owner of The Paw Print. Before owning the pet store, she worked for . . .

Local News : Living with Deer at Todd Sanctuary
On Sunday, November 14, 2004 Todd Sanctuary will be having a special program called "Living with Deer at Todd Sanctuary"

Local News : Stop in at a Local Art Exhibit
Local Art Galleries are right in your own backyard. Stop in and see one this weekend.

Local News : Vandergrift Police Issue Safety Tip
The Vandergrift Police Department is requesting that people who have family members or friends that suffer from . . .

Local News : Halloween Fun This Weekend in Lower Burrell
On Saturday, October 30, 2004, Hillcrest Shopping Center in Lower Burrell will be having a day that is "Frightfully Fun". This will be from Noon to 2:00 pm.

Local News : Orchard Hills Community Learning Center
This year Orchard Hills Community Learning Center had its Grand Opening in September offering night courses with quality education. Other offerings include K-12 Tutoring Center, GED Program, Bible seminars, and quilting events.

Local News : Chamber Announces "THAT DAM Fishing Tournament!" Winners
Kittanning, Pa. - The Armstrong County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the winners of its second annual "That Dam Fishing Tournament!" The event was held October 16 & 17

Local News : Washington Township Volunteer Fire Co:
History and Current Events
The Washington Township Volunteer Fire Company (WTVFC) was started in the early 1960s by members of this community. At that time Washington Township was a rural community. The members participated in the building of the fire hall.

Local News : Police Department Receives Grants
and Officers Receive Awards
A $10,000 award was presented to the department over the past year by the A-K Valley Federal Credit Union for the purchase of in cruiser laptops.

Local News : ATTENTION FARMERS: "LET’S TALK"
Farmers across Westmoreland County are being invited to participate in a series of "Let’s Talk" meetings to gather input for a new program devote to sustaining and strengthening Westmoreland County’s agricultural base.

Local News : COMMUNITY-WIDE EFFORT IS KEY TO
FUTURE OF WESTMORELAND AGRICULTURE
The "Future of Westmoreland Agriculture (FWA)" is bringing members of the community together to identify, understand and address the challenges and opportunities facing the farming community in Westmoreland County.

Local News : Hebron Holy Hikers Relay for Life Team

On Saturday, October 23, 2004 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Hebron Holy Hikers Relay for Life Team is having a vendor fair and you are invited! All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society (4 Corners Relay for Life).

Local News : STATE POLICE PROGRAM WILL HELP OFFICERS

State Police next year will begin a program to train troopers and municipal police offers to recognize when an individual has been driving under the influence of drugs and to identify the type of drug causing the impairment, State Police Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller announced . . .

Local News : Family Aging Seminar at
The Presbyterian Church of Plum Creek
A single day seminar of the choices and challenges of aging will be held in the sanctuary of the Presbyterian Church of Plum Creek, Sunday Afternoon, October 24.

Local News : Vandergrift 2004 Halloween Celebration
One of the successful promotions in Vandergrift over the past decade has been the Annual Halloween Celebration held for the children of the Borough of Vandergrift, where candy and cash treats are given to our children.

Local News : St. Joseph's Students Accepted into
Allegheny Intermediate Unit Apprenticeship Program
Thirteen St. Joseph High School seniors and juniors have been accepted into the 2004-05 Allegheny Intermediate Unit Apprenticeship Program. The program offers an opportunity for secondary students to interact with professionals in the humanities, sciences, and arts through practical work experience.

Local News : Saddle-Up for St. Jude
Their passion is riding horses, but their hearts are in helping others. Approximately 50 local equestrians are planning to saddle up their horses for a 10 mile trail ride on Sunday, October 17th at 1 p.m. at a Christian riding stable, Victory Stables in Lower Burrell, but they won’t be out for a typical Sunday ride.

Local News : Corn Maze and other Fall Festivities
Fall has its time of seasonal activities. Here are some more great times that include crafts, a corn maze, and more . . .

Local News : St. Joseph High School
Starts "Gift Card Program"
As part of its ongoing efforts to keep tuition affordable, St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights will begin a new "Gift Card Program" on October 12.

Local News : New Officer Hired
The Lower Burrell Police Department would like to welcome Patrolman Thomas Babinsack to the force. Thomas grew up in Natrona and was an Eagle Scout and former Scout Leader with Troop 395 as well as a volunteer firefighter with Highland Hose Fire Dept.

Local News : Orchard Hills Christian Academy Celebrates 27 Years
On August 26th, 2004, Orchard Hills Christian Academy started its 27th year of educating students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. For more than a quarter of a century, Orchard Hills Christian Academy has graduate students who have succeeded as teachers, social workers, office professionals, ministers and even a state representative.

Local News : Burrell Lake Park Improves and Gets Rid of Geese
Many improvements have been in the works for Burrell Lake Park. One has already been completed with a beautiful new restroom building. Another big problem has been the geese at the parks 3.85 acre lake.

Local News : FUN WALK FOR ALL AGES
FLOAT the BOAT is a great chance for teams and individuals to participate in a fun-filled event while helping improve recreation, culture and education in Allegheny Township and the surrounding communities.

Local News : Tax Collection To Be Unified
The Board of Supervisors appoints a tax collector to collect Act 511 taxes at our annual reorganization meeting held in January.

Local News : New Safety Concerns Effect Parking for Davis Field
The Vandergrift Police are reminding drivers that they should not park along the route 56 by pass during football games or other large events at the Davis Field in Vandergrift.

Local News : United Way Kicks Off 2004 Campaign With Day of Caring
Seven hundred people throughout the Westmoreland region traded their usual work clothes for United Way t-shirts and blue jeans in September, to help kickoff the annual campaign for the United Way of Westmoreland County.

Local News : Water and Sewage Projects Progressing
The Thompson and Macro Road water projects are nearly completed. Orr Road is just finishing and Marco Road should be starting shortly to complete the projects. These projects will bring . . .

Local News : Exotic Parrot Program
Exotic birds from around the world are coming to Orchard Hills Christian Academy! John Lege is an exotic parrot hobbyist and a one man rescue operation for abused and neglected parrots.

	September 2004

Local News : SPECIAL BENEFIT TO HELP FLOOD VICTIMS
There will be a benefit in Lower Burrell this weekend to benefit area flood victims. There will be music, dancing and prizes. Raffle tickets are being given to people who give donations. There will be prizes drawn every hour. Some will be cases of pop and other things. The grand prize will be a free color television.

Local News : Sixth Annual Dine Out Against Domestic
Violence Commemorating "25 Years of HOPE"
The Alle-Kiski Area HOPE center has scheduled its sixth annual Dine Out Against Domestic Violence commemorating "25 Years of HOPE". Planned for Friday, October 1, 2004, . . .

Local News : Delmont Apple ‘N Arts Festival
A Delmont tradition for more than 25 years, the 2004 Delmont Apple ‘N Arts Festival is set for mid-October.. Please come and plan to have a great time at this outstanding fall tradition, another great event in Westmoreland County.

Local News : St. Joseph High School's Fall Presentation
St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights will be presenting Arthur Miller’s, "The Crucible" as its fall theater production. The story of how ...

Local News : Washington Township Community News
In 2002, we announced our good fortune in receiving a DCNR Keystone matching grant of $100,000 for the construction of restroom facilities and recreation improvements in our beautiful Kunkle Park.

Local News : Allegheny Valley Concert Association Season
Enjoy a wide range of musical talents this season at Valley High School in New Kensington. This four-concert season that is in its 48th year will begin on October 3, 2004.

Local News : MORE FALL FESTIVAL FUN
Fall is just beginning and here are some more local fun fall events: Country Fall Festival, Applejamm Fall Festival, and the Family Fall Fest

Local News : Community Involvement is Key to
“Future of Westmoreland Agriculture”
Agriculture is the number one industry in Westmoreland County, and a community-based initiative is about to get under way to ensure that it remains viable for the long-term.

Local News : Keystone Ramblers: Oil Creek State Park
Please join us on Saturday, September 25th and/or Sunday, September 26th for hiking and biking at Oil Creek State Park . . .

Local News : Allegheny Valley Showcase - Updated Agenda
On Thursday, September 23, 2004, the Allegheny Valley Chamber of Commerce is having their showcase. Stop in for your business, your family or yourself. There are free mini-seminiars. Check out the updated agenda.

Local News : Plum Workshop on Identity Theft
Plum Borough residents are making an all-out effort to fight Identity Theft – America’s fastest growing crime. Residents there have formed a Coalition Against Identity Theft, and will be holding a Workshop ... (non-residents are welcome)

Local News : Salvation Army Has Basket Bash!
On Saturday, October 16, 2004, there will be a special evening supporting the Salvation Army. The evening begins at 6:00 pm at the River Forest Country Club . . .

Local News : STATE POLICE: REPORTED CRIME INDEX
OFFENSES DROPPED SLIGHTLY IN 2003
*Harrisburg:* The number of Crime Index offenses reported to State Police through the Uniform Crime Reporting system fell slightly last year, State Police Commissioner Jeffery B. Miller Announced . . .

Local News : Curves of Apollo/Washington Township
celebrates their first Anniversary!
Washington Township Curves is celebrating their first Anniversary. Next week, the center will host a special Anniversary Promotion from September 20th to the 25th. They will be conducting "Curves - food for friends" special.

Local News : Fall Weekend Activities
Join Arnold Fall Family Days in its Fifth Annual Festival. If time permits, try the Butler Fall Ethnic Festival. Great activities are popping up everywhere.

Local News : Monarch Migration Day
On September 25, come help us monarchs at the Native Plant Butterfly Trail in Moraine State Park. At 10 AM Tom Pawlesh, an accomplished photographer of butterflies will present his program . . .

Local News : RE/MAX Gains New Agents
Brandy L. Fabry and Heidi D. Bringenberg have recently joined a new staff at RE/MAX Select Realty. Brandy and Heidi are both full time real estate professionals that work together as a full time TEAM providing superior service and excellent customer care.

Local News : Buff and Tough Combo Show Coming Soon!
The second annual OCB “Battle for the Sword” body Building competition and X-Treme Lifting Federation Bench Press Competition will be offered as a combined event at Pittsburgh Marriott North in Cranberry on September 18th.

Local News : Allegheny Valley Showcase
* For Your Business ~ Your Family ~ Yourself *
On Thursday, September 23, 2004, the Allegheny Valley Chamber of Commerce is having their showcase. Stop in for your business, your family or yourself.

Local News : The Leechburg Moose Lodge 102
Has 95th Birthday Celebration Week
The Leechburg Moose Lodge 102 is celebrating its 95th birthday will a week full of activities. The celebration starts with a lodge cookout on September 11th from 12:00PM to close and will include an Adult Dart Tournament, a Children’s Dart Tournament, Raffles, plus many activities for the children.

Local News : Save Lives by Donating Blood at Two Locations
~ You can donate once every 8 weeks!
Local Agencies are looking for blood donations, if you are not able to go to one of these locations, go you your local blood bank.

Local News : Personal Plus Fitness Center Comes to Town
Many times people are intimidated by fitness centers. This time a new center is coming to town featuring a not so intimidating atmosphere.

Local News : Scottish Heritage Sunday
The Presbyterian Church of Plum Creek, 550 Center New Texas Road, will hold its nineteenth Scottish Heritage celebration on Sunday, September 19, beginning with an 11:00 am service.

Local News : Standford Home Centers Celebrates
Ace Hardware 80th Anniversary
“In 1924, four hardware store owners in Chicago united under one company banner to increase their buying power and enhance customer service. Today, Ace Hardware Corporation . . . "

Local News : Fort Hand Festival at Kunkle Park 2004
Updated Event Agenda Announced
The Fort Hand Festival committee is planning excitement and demonstrations that will be a feast for eyes and ears:

Local News : Local Fall Festivals
"Don’t miss the #1 Traditional Show in America. But make haste, our 18th century lasts only two weekends!"

Local News : Fall Festival and Community Days are in Abundance
There are many opportunities to go to a Fall Festival or Community Day in the area. A great time to take a break and enjoy the area and the new season coming in. Pick one and enjoy!

Local News : Labor United Celebration This Weekend
Join us as we celebrate our 25th anniversary of the Labor United Celebration this year! Celebrating the proud tradition of labor in Western Pennsylvania, this two day extravaganza will be held at Northmoreland Park on September 5 and 6.

Local News : LORA PHILLIPS FOUNDATION TO HOLD FIRST
ANNUAL MEMORIAL CLASSIC CAR & MOTORCYCLE RALLY
Lower Burrell, PA… The Lora Phillips Foundation will hold its first annual Memorial Classic Car & Motorcycle Rally on September 11 at the VFW Post 92 Pavilion.

Local News : One of the Best Craft Shows In America
There will be more than 200 exhibits of arts and crafts (indoor and outdoor) and close to 500 costumed participants. There will also be a historical theme show with period entertainment and children’s activities. Also, Colonial military encampment, two military string bands, bagpipe group, fife & frum group, petting zoo, and more. Come rain or shine.

	August 2004

Local News : Watch Local High School Football Games
And Interviews With Coaches On Video Here!
Football Exclusive! Catch your favorite high school football game on our video webcast--anytime you like! Or watch a video interview with any of 12 different local high school coaches, right here! Find out how when you click on the link above...

Local News : Special Day of Fun at Tour-Ed Mine
The Allegheny Kiski Valley Historical Society & The Ridge Runners Car Club, invite you to join the fun at Cruise' In - The Fourth Annual Auto Show & Parts Swap at Tour - Ed Mine in Tarentum, PA. There will be "fun" for kids, crafts, and an auto parts swap.

Local News : Enjoy Fall Foilage Locally
Fall seems to be coming a little early. I have cut my grass yesterday and the next morning, under the trees in my back yard, there were quite a few leaves. There are many places in Western Pennsylvania to enjoy the fall foliage and it may be coming sooner than you think.

Local News : A New School In Town
There’s a new school in town. C.H.E.R.I.S.H. Classical Christian Academy is scheduled to open September 1st in the old North Apollo elementary building at 18th Street and Wilson Street in North Apollo.

Local News : ATTENTION ALL FERRET LOVERS
Ferrets from all over the tri-state area will be doing the ferret dance of joy in South Park on Sunday, September 12th at the Spreading Oaks Grove (next to the BMX track) from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Local News : Area Church Sponsoring Special Concert August 29th
Saxonburg Memorial Church is sponsoring a "Soak’n Up the Son Concert" on Sunday, August 29, at 1:00 p.m. in Roebling Park.

Local News : Tour de Strongland Bike Race is Coming
On Sunday, September 12, 2004, National City is presenting The 2004 Tour de Strongland bike race. The starting and finishing line is at the New Venture Center in Parks Township, Pennsylvania. There are Road Races for all levels and ages.

Local News : STATE POLICE REMAINS LARGEST ACCREDITED POLICE AGENCY IN THE WORLD
HARRISBURG: Pennsylvania State Police has retained its status as the largest accredited police agency in the world, State Police Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller announced today.

Local News : 50th Anniversary Celebration
On Sunday, September 12, 2004, please join Bethel United Methodist Church in celebrating 50 years of ministry!

Local News : Leechburg Festival This Weekend
This weekend, August 21 & 22, 2004 Leechburg Festival, Inc. will be having an event at the Riverfront park in Leechburg.

Local News : Fourth Grade Student Scores Big at Carnegie Mellon University
Kelly Kuzemchak daughter of Ed and April Kuzemchak of Avonmore was selected to participate in the C-MITES Summer Program for academically talented students. Kelly attended the Math Olympiads I & II class held at Carnegie Mellon University from July 12 –23, 2004.

Local News : YMCA Merges Bringing More Opportunities
In the beginning of the summer, the boards of the YMCA of New Kensington and the Kiski Valley YMCA concluded with final approval on the two organizations merging. The facilities will be merging officially on January 1, 2005.

Local News : Father Sotak Memorial Fund
St. Joseph High School, Harrison has established the Donald J. Sotak Memorial Fund to honor Father Sotak's commitment to Catholic Education at the high school. This fund will be used for tuition assistance.

Local News : Hope Center Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Johnny Angel and the Halos
The Alle-Kiski Area HOPE center has scheduled its sixth annual Dine Out Against Domestic Violence commemorating "25 Years of HOPE". Planned for Friday, October 1, 2004, the celebration features Johnny Angel and the Halos, sponsored by the Foresters.

Local News : Free Bowling Promotes Junior Leagues
On August 12th and 13th, from 12:00 to 4:00 pm, Lee’s Lanes on River Road in Vandergrift, offered two free games to kids ages 6 to 16. Shoe rental is only $1.00. There will be two more free days Thursday and Friday, August 19 & 20 of next week.

Local News : Sports Dedication: Young and Committed
Thursday, August 12, 2004 kicked off a special cheer night for the Kiski Valley Lancers Cheerleading teams. The girls all performed their half-time routines for the parents and organization.

Local News : Local Student Attends United States Naval Academy Summer Seminar Program
Looking to his future, local student, Brian Arroyo was an attendee at the United States Naval Academy Summer Seminar Program in Annapolis, Maryland, from June 5-10, 2004. Arroyo will be a senior this fall at St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights.

Local News : Local High School Graduate Earns Eagle Scout Honor
Living right here in the A-K Valley, he did what less than one-half of one percent of ALL men will ever do. Timothy Shorthouse, a Kiski Area student who graduated in 2004, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout Sunday, August 8, 2003 . . .

Local News : Valley High School Sports Focus
Jeff Garrett of Alle-KiskiToday spends a few moments with Valley High School’s new football coach, Troy Hill. He discusses with Jeff his time at the University of Pittsburgh as defensive back. You will find out what great teams Troy had the opportunity to play with in his career and then what brought Troy to Valley High School?

Local News : Community Awareness Day & Free Concert
We invite the community to a Free Concert, & Community Awareness Day, on Sunday, August 22, at Spring Church Lutheran Church, 3623 Lutheran Church Road. Activities will start at 4:00 P.M. with an antique car display, games for young people, and children's activities.

Local News : UPCOMING WEEKEND LOCAL THEATER
We all need a night out of rest, try one of the local upcoming plays to get a break from the norm. "Camping With Henry and Tom" will be playing at the Apple Hill Play House in Delmont.

Local News : Mountain Bike Ramble August 12th
Join Venture Outdoors for a special Mountain Bike Ramble in Harrison Hills Park in Harrison Township on Thursday, August 12, 2004. This ramble is very welcoming for a beginner . . .

Local News : Area Activities at Westmoreland County Parks
Young Teen Camp - Survivor Wilderness Challenge - “Compete with your tribe for rewards and immunity from tasks in a five-day Survivor wilderness challenge!

Local News : RESIDENT WATERFOWL HUNTING SEASON IN COUNTY PARKS
Hunting for resident waterfowl (geese) will be permitted at the lakefront areas of Westmoreland County’s Chestnut Ridge Park, Bridgeport Dam Park, Mammoth Park, Twin Lakes Park, and Northmoreland Park during the September, November, and December through February hunting seasons.

Local News : Vandergrift’s First Fiesta Italiano
Vandergrift’s First Fiesta Italiano will be held Sunday, August 15, 2004 at Kennedy Park. The event will begin with an outdoor Mass at 11:00 a.m., . . .

Local News : Kiski Tournament Baseball Club Finishes a Great Season
The Kiski Tournament Baseball Club, 10-Year-Old Tournament Team recently finished the season 14 and 3. They won their last nine games and captured first place finishes in the Zelienople-Harmony, and the Delmont Tournaments.

Local News : Saltsburg is Having a Community Day
Come out on September 11, 2004 for Saltsburg's Community Day. We will begin the day with town wide yard sales at 8:00 am. Maps will be available at the information booth on the canal.

	July 2004

Local News : Local Area Cub Scouts Have a Blast at Day Camp
Friday, July 30, 2004 completed a four-day "day" camp for local area cub scouts, ages seven to eleven. The Moraine Trails Council of Boy Scouts of America held a four-day camp for the River Valley District of Moraine Trails at the Leechburg Community Park.

Local News : Local Director of Nursery School Retires
The Director of Bethel Nursery School at Bethel United Methodist Church in Lower Burrell decided it was time to pass the hat to another.

Local News : Fun and Freedom Basketball
A retired elementary Health and Physical Education Instructor, Counselor and High School basketball coach, Deanna Riddle (in partnership with friend & fellow church member Penny Houston) started an organization called Fun and Freedom Basketball. Deanna believes that through this organization, sports, primarily basketball can have a positive influence on young lives.

Local News : Volunteers Needed for Weed Whacker Days
The Kiski Watershed and Roaring Run Watershed Associations will be helping out with Weed Wacker Days in Leechburg on July 31st.

Local News : Vandergrift Improvement Program
The Vandergrift Improvement Program, a non-profit organization striving to revitalize the business and residential areas of Vandergrift, conducted its monthly meeting on July 21, 2004, at the Victorian Vandergrift Historical Museum.

Local News : Bible Club and Area Fund Raiser
On July 26-30, Spring Church Lutheran Church is having their Bible Day Camp. Counselors from Camp Lutheran will provide five days of Bible Study, games, crafts, singing and fun!

Local News : Mark Your Calendars for the Fort Hand Festival
Mark your calendars for, Saturday, September 11, 2004 so you can be at Kunkle Park, Washington Township. There will be an All Day Flea Market, Craft & Retail Vendors.

Local News : Children’s Clothing Swap Keeps Growing
Kids Closet is a community service held on the second Saturday of each month from 10am – 2pm. This ministry provides a large and ever changing collection of gently used children’s clothing, . . .

Local News : International Baseball Closes its 10th Year This Saturday
For 10 years, Freeport International Baseball has been an annual event based in the town of Freeport, Pennsylvania. The organization founder is Sonny Westerman, and the president for the last three years has been Chuck Sarver.

Local News : Hyde Park Community Days Celebration Starts Tomorrow
Lots of activities are planned for the Hyde Park Community Days Celebration. The celebration starts on Friday, July 23, 2004 and runs through Saturday and is sponsored by the Hyde Park Volunteer Fire Department.

Local News : There is still time to get to the Freeport Theater Festival
You still have a chance to catch the Freeport Theater Festival. The Freeport Theatre Festival is celebrating its fifteenth season with a local historical drama Massey Harbison.

Local News : Runners Pave Country Roads 5K Run With Success
The first Country Roads 5K Run/Walk got off to a good start in Washington Twp. last Saturday. 64 runners competed in the event, which attracted running enthusiasts from all over the Alle-Kiski region, as well as other parts of Western PA.

Local News : Leechburg Area Museum & Historical Society News
The Leechburg Area Museum & Historical Society will be participating in the Leechburg Festival on August 21 and 22, 2004. A small flea market will be going on that day.

Local News : Family Literacy Program a Big Success
This summer the ARIN Intermediate Unit is sponsoring a family literacy program called “ Discover New Trails at Your Library ”.

Local News : New Restaurant to Area
“The Addison House in Leechburg is going to be complete about the end of September”, says Laura Stettmier of Tarentum (part owner).

Local News : Country Roads 5K Race
The Country Roads 5K race is Saturday, July 17, 2004. Pine Run Road will be closed to all traffic from 8AM between Kunkle Park and Watson Road.

Local News : New Kensington Rotary Gets New President
On July 1, 2004, Jim Simmermon became the new President to New Kensington Rotary Club. He replaced Major Stank Senak.

Local News : BENEFIT PLAY
On Sunday, July 11, 2004, St. Joseph High School Drama Department alumni will present an original play, “Funicello’s Birthday”, . . .

Local News : Saint Gertrude Parish Festival
The Saint Gertrude Parish of Vandergrift is having their yearly festival which is to be held on Saturday, July 17, 2004 (5 pm to 11 pm), and Sunday, July 18, 2004 (1:00 pm to 11:00 pm).

Local News : Get Your Tickets for Kiski Junction Railroad
The Kiski Junction Railroad has already moved full steam ahead into another exciting season. The railroad, operated by Mary and Charles Bowyer, has it regular season from the Saturday before Memorial Day through October 31.

Local News : Visit Tour-Ed Mine and Museum
Many times we forget some of the great spots to visit in our area. Tour-Ed Mine and Museum in Tarentum gives one an opportunity to visit and tour a real mine of long ago.

Local News : Summer Blast at Area Parks
This past week, July 5th to 9th, started a series of programs where area children participate in two hours of exciting games, songs, crafts, drama, and hear Bible stories in three different park locations.

Local News : Viking Theater Needs Your Help
Alumni Theater is a group that consists of Alumni from New Kensington, Arnold, and Valley High Schools. It gives former students an opportunity to be involved in community theater.

Local News : St. Joseph's Students Take a Special Prize
A team of students from St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights took a special prize at the National History Day competition held at the University of Maryland June 13-17, 2004.

Local News : Allegheny Township All-Stars Defend Title
Allegheny Township All-Star Team defends their 2003 title this year. The District 26 All-Star Tournament for the Minor League Division (9 & 10 year olds) started on Monday, July 5, 2004.

Local News : Get Ready to Pick Those Blueberries
When I was a kid, growing up in New Jersey, my mom sometimes took my sister and I blueberry picking in the summer. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to take my two kids out for an adventure of the same thing.

Local News : Brief History of Hyde Park
This area has a wealth of historical information. There are many historical societies to visit. The following piece is from the Hyde Park Museum Historical Room Brochure.

Local News : Hyde Park Museum Historical Room
On July 24-25, 2004, Hyde Park will be having its community days and a beautiful quilt will be raffled off by the Hyde Park Museum Historical Room.

Local News : VIP Clean-Up
The Vandergrift Improvement Program (VIP) had a special clean up on Saturday, June 12, 2004. This group is trying to clean up the town and revitalize it.

Local News : Junior Wrestlers Aim to be Elite
This Friday, July 2, 2004 will complete a week at Pride Wrestling Camp for many area wrestlers. Four brothers Doug, Stephen, Andrew, and Scottie Joseph work together as a team to help other wrestlers.

	June 2004

Local News : Little League Awards
On Saturday, June 26, 2004, the Allgheny Township Lions sponsored the award ceremony for the Allegheny Township Athletic Association (ATAA).

Local News : Local Cancer Survivor
This month, on June 11-12, 2004, at Apollo Ridge High School was the 9th Annual Relay for Life. Michelle Kuhn was encouraged by friends and family to participate in the relay.

Local News : Alle-Kiski Medical Center - Special Programs
Alle-Kiski Medical Center invites you to its celebration of the addition of a new, state-of-the-art Linear Accelerator, which provides intensity modulated radiation therapy.

Local News : New Kensington Community Days
Starting Friday and lasting through Sunday will be the New Kensington Community Days at Memorial Park in New Kensington.

Local News : PLUM COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
On Friday, June 25th and Saturday, June 26th, Plum will be having their Community Festival. It will be held at the Larry Mills Park on O’Block Road in the Borough.

Local News : Leechburg Historical Society
Stop in for some history in Leechburg. The museum’s general purpose is to preserve artifacts and records from the area of Leechburg.

Local News : Allegheny Township Community Days
Come out to the Community Building on Saturday, June 26, 2004, and join the day with lots of fun with your friends and family.

Local News : Area Students Take Flight Into Career Awareness
Local students enrolled in the Arbor Career Center Teenworks Program, a partner of the Alle-Kiski Pennsylvania CareerLink, visited the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics as part of an industry tour to explore career opportunities in the Aviation Industry.

Local News : Local Road Damage
Storms last week in the area caused great flooding of streams, created new streams, and washed out bridges and roads.

Local News : BURRELL AREA ROTARY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL AND COMMUNITY YARD SALE
On Saturday, June 19, 2004, the Lower Burrell Rotary Club had its third annual Strawberry Festival. The chairperson of the Festival events was Cindy Sakala, as known as the Strawberry Queen.

Local News : 2004 River Sweep
The Roaring Run Water Shed Association and the Kiskiminetas River Water Shed Association are having their annual River Sweep on Saturday, June 19th. The time is from 8 am to Noon. All volunteers will receive a T-shirt.

Local News : C.H.E.R.I.S.H. Classical Christian Academy Open its Doors
A new school will be opening in the Apollo area this fall. It is for grades Kindergarten through twelfth grade. A special feature for young children is Full Day Kindergarten.

Local News : Plum Borough Community Library - Press Release
The joint Book Club between the Plum Senior Community Center and Plum Library will read "Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd on June 17, 2004 at 7:30 pm at the Plum Senior Community Center.

Local News : Washington Township Garden Club & Community Golf Outing
Garden Club Still Welcoming Members Members of the Washington Township Parks Improvement Committee have formed a Washington Township Garden Club . . .

Local News : Kunkle Park 5K Run/Walk
Your Teams, as well as individual members of your school and community, are invited to PARTICIPATE IN AN ALL AGE 5K run/walk to be held Saturday, July 17,2004.

Local News : KISKI BASEBALL WINS BIG! CAV TEAM IN STATE SEMI-FINALS!
Kiski Area's bats were smokin' hot again as the Cavalier Boys of Summer caged the North Allegheny Tigers 9-4 in Thursday's PIAA State Quarterfinal. Story, photos of the game, as well as video clips that include game highlights, a post-game interview with Kiski Coach Jack Jewart, and an introduction to each player on the team, all right here.

Local News : Discover New Trails . . . Explore at Your Library
Plum Community Library's summer reading theme this year will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Lewis & Clark corps of Discovery. Registration is mandatory and begins June 14th and ends June 19th.

Local News : Pet Show - Friday, June 11th
The Plum Senior community Center is hold a Pet Show Friday June 11, 2004. All area community members, seniors and pets are invited to attend and participate. the "top pets." The show will be held

Local News : Drafted By The Atlanta Braves
Jared Shaffer agreed to talk to us about being drafted by the Atlanta Braves, but there were a couple of things he had to take care of first... Catch the exclusive video webcast here!

Local News : Local Students Compete in National History Day Competition
Two teams of students from St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights will be making the trip to the University of Maryland later this month for the national History Day competition.

Local News : Kiski Area High School Commencement 2004
It is a victorious time of year for many student seniors. On Monday, June 7, 2004, the senior students of Kiski Area celebrated their graduation at Davis Field in Vandergrift.

Local News : Kiski Area Shuts Down Erie Cathedral Prep In First Round of States
Kiski Area topped top-ranked Erie Cathedral in the first round of the state baseball playoffs today. Story and video webcast of highlights of the game here.

Local News : Student Participates in National Youth Leadership Forum
St. Joseph High School Junior Patrick Pugliese will be participating in the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Washington, DC, on June 20-29, 2004.

Local News : Karlee Gustafson Recieves Award
St. Joseph High School Freshman Karlee Gustafson was recently selected to receive the Society of Analytical Chemists Award.

Local News : Local New Home Construction
There are many new home plans going in the Alle-Kiski Area. Some that are really selling quickly are in the Maronda Home Plans. One is Hawk Valley in Allegheny Township and Chapeldale that is near the Plum area.

Local News : Leechburg Softball Team WPIAL Runner-Ups
Leechburg High School's softball team faced a tough Sto-Rox team in the WPIAL championship game Friday afternoon. Watch video clips on our Webcast and also get the story in photos here.

Local News : Allegheny-Valley Historical Society Welcomes Antique Expert
Allegheny-Valley Historical Society Welcomes Antique Expert - George Way, of New York City, an international expert on antiques, will be at the Heritage Museum (224 E. 7th Ave., Tarentum) this Sunday, June 6th.

Local News : Student Academic News
St. Joseph High School Sophomore Mylauna Swango took part in the Females Interested in Reaching for Science, Technology, and Engineering (FIRSTE) Program at the Penn State University New Kensington campus on May 11 12, 2004.

Local News : Leechburg Softball Squad in WPIAL Finals
The young ladies of Leechburg High School Softball have done it again. They play Friday for the WPIAL Championship and are headed to States. Coach Jim Oberdorf talks about it in an exclusive webcast video here on Alle-Kiski Today.

Local News : KVYMCA Gym Show 2004
On Friday, May 28, 2004, the Kiski Valley YMCA had its annual gym show. The program was called “The 70’s Show”. This year the program was held at the Penn State/New Kensington gymnasium.

Local News : Cafe' Night at Plum Library
Our finale will be a field trip by Gateway Clipper to Mountaineer Race Track and Mountain Resort in Weirton, WV. Café Night is open to adults only and is part of our Summer Reading Program.

	May 2004

Local News : Exciting Schedule for Summer at the Kiski Valley YMCA
The Kiski Valley YMCA kicks off their summer schedule in June. For young children there are camps for Tots, and Preschoolers. New this year is something called “Camp Kiski”, which is a full day of summer camp for ages 6 to 12.

Local News : Scrapbooking Class
One June 12, at Saltsburg Free Library at 9:30 am, Cosette Smith of Creative Memories will have a class about properly preparing and constructing a scrapbook.

Local News : Plum Senior Community Center
The Plum Senior Community Center will hold a Health Fair on June 17. Community members can attend information sessions on new discount drug cards, diabetes and side effects of prescription drugs.

Local News : The Strawberry Rubber Duck Derby
The Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company will be having its Rubber Duck Derby during Leechburg’s June Strawberry Festival.

Local News : Canal Days Are Coming!
Saltsburg’s 23rd Canal Days are coming up on weekend of June 4, 5 & 6, 2004. This entertaining weekend if filled with fun, food, crafts and great entertainment. Saturday's events end with fireworks.

Local News : Vandergrift Pool Opens
The Vandergrift Pool opens this weekend May 29, 2004. Season passes are available. There is a ten percent discount if you purchase a pass before May 29, 2004. Last year there was a lot of change at the pool with fresh new colors and special maintenance.

Local News : Free State Fishing Days
Take advantage of a great opportunity to fish with your family and friends this season when the State of Pennsylvania has their free fishing days

Local News : Boy Scout Camporee at Crooked Creek
This past weekend (May 21-23) proved to be an adventurous camporee for local boyscouts at Crook Crooked Creek Park.

Local News : 12th Annual St. Joseph High School Spartan Scramble
Hill Crest Country Club in Lower Burrell will be the location for the 12th Annual St. Joseph High School Spartan Scramble golf outing. The event will take place on Monday, June 7, 2004.

Local News : Can you swing????
If you can, the Allegheny Valley Chamber wants you for their golf outing. Golfers are welcome!

Local News : New Kensington Chamber Upcoming Activities
New Kensington Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring many upcoming events. A tourism brochure will be sent out Monday. Also, along with the Arnold Chamber there will be a Members Kabiz and Kabob Party and New Kensington Community Days will be here soon! The following was submitted by the New Kensington Chamber:

Local News : Elementary Students Put on Plays
Today, Kiski Area’s Allegheny-Hyde Park Elementary School first and second grade’s each put on their own play. Earlier in the day, the students performed for the student body.

Local News : Up Coming Events from Strongland Chamber of Commerce
Join the Strongland Chamber for the Annual Canoe Sojourn, Business Reception at the Links in Spring Church, Strongland Annual Golf Outing, and Free State Fishing Day at Northmoreland Park.

Local News : Freeport Adds Rails to Trails
According to Jim Seagriff of the Freeport Council Chamber, there will be an extension to the Butler Freeport Trail. Three and a half miles will be added to the trail and will start under the Laneville Bridge in Freeport.

Local News : Look Up Your Revolutionary War Ancestors!
From 2:00-4:00 pm on Saturday, May 29, 2004, Chapter’s Books in the Hillcrest Shipping Center, Lower Burrell, will have members of the Massy Harbison-Fort Hand Chapter of the NSDAR (National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution) on hand.

Local News : Washington Township News
Did you know that many Township’s municipalities are on-line including their fire and police departments information and news.

Local News : Saltsburg Citizens Concerned
Many Saltsburg residents are very concerned over a recent School Board decision. The Blairsville/Saltsburg School District recently announced that it would be making cuts to several programs.

Local News : Hyde Park Community Spring Clean Up Days
Hyde Park Community Spring Clean Up Days are coming up. These are for Hyde Park Residents Only. Dumpsters available on Thursday, May 20, Friday May 21, and Saturday, May 22. Dumpsters will be located in the lot by the Hyde Park Fire Department.

Local News : Oklahoma Borough News
According to Mayor, Rich Dickey, of Oklahoma Borough, the Borough is in the process of finishing a new picnic pavilion in Oklahoma Park.

Local News : Area Student to Participate in Pennsylvania Governor's School
St. Joseph High School Junior and Apollo resident Miranda Hileman has been selected to participate in the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Agricultural Sciences at Pennsylvania State University this summer.

Local News : Allegheny Township Vs. West Leechburg
An exciting little league baseball game was played last night. It was the Allegheny Township (9 & 10 year olds) Lanco Electric Team, who is nicknamed the “Red Sox”, vs West Leechburg’s Yankees.

Local News : Open House at Valley Mill
The Freeport Area Historical Society will be holding open house at the Valley (Mickey’s) Mill on select Saturdays through September.

Local News : Plum Library to Begin New Program
The Plum Borough Community Library will be hosting a Cafe Night for adults only on select Fridays from 7-10 PM starting on June 4. Come in and enjoy quiet reading time, enjoy a cup of coffee, tea and light snacks on their beautiful patio, attend informative classes, or just come and play chess, scrabble or a quite game of cards.

	April 2004

Local News : Mystery Dinner Theater Fundraiser
The Vandergrift #1 Fire Department and the East Vandergrift Ethnic Day Committee is sponsoring “MURDER AT RUTHERFORD HOUSE”.

Local News : Students Receive Women in Science Award
St. Joseph High School Juniors Miranda Hileman, Amanda McClelland and Alyssa Thimons received Women in Science Day awards at a ceremony held April 7.

Local News : Township Officials Attend Annual State Convention
John Turack, on of the three township supervisors, and Audrey Saftner, Secretary/Treasurer/Administrator, both of Washington Township, attended the 82nd Annual State Convention of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors.

Local News : The 2004 Alle-Kiski-Connie River Sojourn
Grab your paddles and pack your clothes because its time once again for the annual Alle-Kiski-Connie River Sojourn.

Local News : Volunteers Help Keep History Alive
It is amazing to see how much can be accomplished in our hometown when a group of dedicated volunteers push up their sleeves and dig into a project. One such project can be seen at the Victorian Vandergrift Museum and Historical Society.

Local News : Opening Day In The Alle-Kiski Valley
Everywhere around the Alle-Kiski Valley the whoosh of the bats, cheers of the crowds and smells of great concession stand treats are filling the air. Some local leagues have already begun their season but for some leagues the fun has just begun.

Local News : Apollo Library To Hold Heartsaver AED Course
The Apollo Memorial Library will be presenting the "Heartsaver AED" course on Monday, April 26, beginning at 6:30pm in the library. This class, presented by instructor Susie Toman, will provide certification in lifesaving technique for Adult CPR and airway obstruction, as well as in use of the Automatic External Defibrillator.

Local News : Wesolosky Connects History to Students' Art Work
In preparation for the Bell Avon Elementary School Art Show, art teacher JoAnn Wesolosky connected her student's history lessons to their artwork. Fifth graders displayed their interpretations of Ozella's Freedom Quilts.

Local News : Story Hour at Burrell Library
Preschoolers trailed into the reading room at the Lower Burrell library for another exciting Story Hour.

Local News : Annual Memorial Day Celebration in Leechburg
Veterans are encouraged to march in the annual Memorial Day parade that will be held in Leechburg on Monday, May 31. The parade will form at the flagpole at Second Street and River Avenue at 9:30am, with the parade beginning at 10am.

Local News : Youth United Initiative Plans a Homeless Encampment
On April 16, students from eleven area high schools who are members of the Habitat for Humanity's Youth United Movement will establish a homeless encampment in the parking lot at the Riverview Plaza on Tarentum Bridge Road.

Local News : A Big Success at Regional History Day
St. Joseph High School students made a fine showing at the regional History Day competition on March 20. The event was held at the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center and was sponsored by Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania.

Local News : Kiski Area and Early Childhood Agencies Discuss Students' Transition
Early childhood providers recently attended an informal Early Childhood Transitional Meeting provided by Kiski Area School District. Organized by reading supervisor Nannette Farmar and kindergarten teacher Michele Paga, the meeting provided the agencies with information regarding Kiski Area's kindergarten curriculum and answered questions concerning the transition of students in the agencies to kindergarten classrooms.

Local News : The New Computer Hazard, Spyware
Spyware has hit the Alle-Kiski Valley pretty hard. Each day HighVision Technical Support speaks to customers that have been affected by this deadly menace. Well, you ask, what exactly is spyware?

	March 2004

Local News : Kiski Area Team Leads Strongland Quiz Bowl
Eight local high schools participated in the eighth annual StrongLand Chamber of Commerce Quiz Bowl on Tuesday, March 9, at Leechburg Area High School.

Local News : Allegheny County's 2nd Annual "One Book, One Community"
Today the Plum Borough Community Library encourages residents to participate in Allegheny County's 2nd Annual "One Book, One Community" countywide book read.

Local News : St. Joseph Presents Children Of Eden
Under the direction of Mr. John J. Carosella, the St. Joseph High School Drama Department will present, "Children of Eden" as its Spring 2004 musical production.

Local News : Mini State Police Academy Available For Youth
State Sen. Sean Logan, announced that youngsters who are interested in learning about law enforcement should apply to attend the Troop B Camp Cadet 2004 program that will be held July 18-24.

Local News : Christina Munco Awarded Artist of the Month at Kiski
Kiski High School Administration and Art Department named junior, Christina Munco as the Artist of the Month for February.

Local News : HomExpo, All About More
This year's Homexpo held in the old Montgomery Wards building in Lower Burrell, was all about more. More vendors, more opportunity to save, more freebees, more seminars, more entertainment and, well, more!

Local News : Seconld Annual Chocolate Festival
The combination of great music and samples of chocolate products from the fine candy producers and bakers of the Valley promises to be not only entertaining but a sweet afternoon at the Heritage Museum in Tarentum.

Local News : Students Receive PA Junior Academy of Science Awards
Nine St. Joseph High School students received a First Award at the recent Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science Region 7 Meeting at Chartiers Valley High School.

Local News : Vandergrift Gymnast Excels At State Level
Township YMCA Gymnastic coach Carlie Bennett should be proud of the skills that her gymnastics team presented on March 13.

Local News : Valley Junior ROTC Participates In Annual Competition
Students from the Valley High School faced off against drill teams from Clairton, George Westinghouse and Beaver Area High Schools in the annual Junior ROTC competition at Valley High School.

Local News : Family Fun Gala 2004 Features Health Fair
Alle-Kiski Medical Center and The Alle-Kiski Are Hope Center's fourth consecutive year of partnership should draw hundreds of AK Valley families to this two-day health fair scheduled from noon until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 17 and Thursday, March 18 at the Clarion Hotel.

Local News : Two Students Receive DAR Awards
Two Valley High School students received recognition from the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Local News : Nominations Being Accepted For 2004 Child Advocacy Award
The Multidisciplinary Child Protection Team of Armstrong County Children Youth and Family Services is accepting nominations for its annual Child Advocacy Award.

Local News : Kegan Borland Represents School at PIAA Championships in State College
St. Joseph High School Sophomore and Vandergrift resident Kegan Borland will be representing the school at the PIAA Championships in State College on March 11-13, 2004.

Local News : Despite Hurdles, Highlands Cheerleaders Land High Honors in National Tournament
The Brown Squad, Highlands High School's competitive cheer team, landed in third place in their division at the Contest of Champions held at Disney World Saturday February 28th.

Local News : Kiski Area High School Presents Hello Dolly
The Kiski Area High School be present Hello Dolly, based on Thornton Wilder's, The Matchmaker, on March 17 through March 20, at the high school auditorium.

	February 2004

Local News : Services Held For Firefighter
This morning firefighters from around the Kiski Valley gathered at St. Gertrude's Roman Catholic Church to honor and pay their last respects to Firefighter Rich Gabrielli who died earlier this week.

Local News : Beautiful, Beautiful Night
What a wonderful evening Christian singles had at their "Belle Bella Notte" event held on February 21st .

Local News : State Police Project Childsafe
The Pennsylvania State Police are participating in the Project Childsafe Program.

Local News : Special Presentation of Art, Music and Culture
Historical society members and friends will be treated to an entertaining and educational program of African art and performances of some of the finest gospel and blues music available in a program at the Societies Museum in Tarentum, located at 224 E. 7th Avenue, on Sunday, February 22.

Local News : Library Offers Tax Assistance And Advice Program
Well its everyone's favorite time of year again, that's right, tax season. To make things a little easier for us all, the Apollo Memorial Library has become a site for Tax Aide. This volunteer run, tax counseling and preparation service will be available until April 12.

Local News : Plum Senior Center Offers Home Delivered Meals
The Plum Senior Center, located at 499 Center-New Texas Road, is now offering home delivered meals, "Rain or Shine, A Meal and a Smile Delivered To Your Door Everyday." The program, federally funded, provides healthy meals to 2,500 homebound older adults daily in the Allegheny County. Older adults that are sixty years of age and older who are homebound and unable to shop or prepare meals are eligible for this program.

Local News : Annual Gala To Be Held
The HOPE Center and the Alle-Kiski Medical Center will be holding their annual Family Fun GALA on March 16 and March 17, form noon to 8pm at the Clarion Hotel in New Kensington. The GALA provides a "Growing Awareness of Local Agencies" showcasing over sixty non-profit and for-profit businesses.

Local News : High School Bowling Team Finishes First Season
On February 18, the inaugural season of St. Joseph High School new bowling team will come to a close with its last game of 2003-04. Although the team has no wins so far this season, members have held their own against teams both at their level and beyond.

Local News : Buc Wrestlers Nudged Out
Erie's Fort LeBoeuf Bison wrestlers have a motto: "If you hear the stampede you better run." But if Burrell High School's wrestlers heard any stampede, they didn't run away. They were too busy running head-on bull-like into a head-butting contest with Ft. LeBoeuf. But the Bisons elbowed the Bucs out of the running for the PIAA crown, 38-23. It was closer than the score shows.

Local News : Burrell vs. Lake Lehman PIAA Quarterfinals
PIAA Quarterfinals, February 6th, Giant Center Results See PIAA's site at www.piaa.org

Local News : BURRELL WRESTLERS BLAST THRU FIRST ROUND IN STATE TOURNAMENT
Tonight the Buc wrestlers from Burrell High School proved what they were made of as they whipped the Lake Lehman Knights in a 48-24 decisive victory in the PIAA Class AA wrestling quarterfinals. "To beat a team by 20 something points," Burrell Coach Chris Como said after the match, "I think we belong here. We're here to win a state championship."

Local News : Scenes From Burrell's Victory over Lake Lehman In the 2004 PIAA Quarterfinals

Local News : Scenes From Burrell's Victory Over Lake Lehman in the 2004 PIAA Quarterfinals Part 2

Local News : BURRELL BUCS NAIL WPIAL AA - HEADED TO HERSHEY
The Burrell Bucs continued a dominating season with a AA WPIAL Championship victory over South Side Beaver this past Saturday at Ringold High School. The Bucs upped their record to 12-2 and earned a shot at the PIAA State Title to be held in Hershey this weekend.

Local News : Lower Burrell Recycling Task Force
As necessary recycling has become integrated into our daily routines, the city is required to provide recycling statistics to the state. We track this data . . .

	January 2004

Local News : Chess Tournament To Begin
Pre-registration is about to begin for the Annual People's Library Chess Tournament to be held at both the New Kensington and Lower Burrell locations. This tournament is for children in grades from kindergarten through eighth.

Local News : Student And Teacher Honored At Conference Awards Banquet
Natrona Heights - St. Joseph High School freshman and New Kensington resident Louis Greco presented his eighth grade science project at the poster session of the Pennsylvania Science Teachers Association (PSTA) annual conference in Hershey, Pennsylvania, last month. His project, "Energy Comparisons Among Wood Types," determined which wood released the most energy when burned.

Local News : Kings Sneak Peek Marked With Visit by Founder, Hartley King
Hartley King, founder of Kings Family Restaurants, was on hand Friday January 16th for a noon ribbon-cutting ceremony that led to a sneak peek of the new Kings and Buy 'n Fly store and BP gas station in Allegheny Twp.

Local News : A Familiar Face At Kings Family Restaurant
When the hiring process is completed for the new Allegheny Township Kings Family Restaurant, general manager Frank Carney will lead a team of 125 local people. Carney comes to the new location from Kings in Kittanning where he was general manager for the last five years.

Local News : Flood Damaged Roadways Seeking Funding
Allegheny Township will be working with FEMA regarding the road damage situation on Pine Camp Road in the township.