It’s that time of year again – time for making plans to finally tackle those long-overdue home improvement projects, remodeling jobs and decorating updates before it’s time to start spring cleaning.
The 5th annual Monroeville Home Show Jan. 24-26 at the Monroeville Convention Center – with more than 200 exhibits, demonstrations and home and garden experts – might be a good place to start.
Even one of the region’s local folk heroes that will be at the show – “Pittsburgh Dad” (aka comedian Curt Wootton of the South Hills) – agrees.
Wit and wisdom of ‘Pittsburgh Dad’
“After the kids have destroyed your house after the holidays, it’s time to find the pieces you need to put it all back together,” he said.
The Hempfield native is scheduled to visit and get photos with his fans in a “meet and greet” session from noon to 3 p.m. Jan. 26.
As for his own home improvement skills, he said, “In my head I have great ideas. And when they don’t work, I call a professional. As a Pittsburgh guy, you always have to give it the old college try.”
Wootton said he hopes to see a lot of folks at the home show. “There is free parking,” he said, “and you don’t have to go through too many tunnels to get there.”
New products, services showcased
Produced by Kelly Simon Event Management, the trade show will feature the latest products and services for homeowners.
For Julian Craig of Stanton Heights, owner and founder of Home Restylers bathroom remodelers located in Sharpsburg, it’s a good time to tell homeowners about his company’s line of stylish, updated contemporary walk-in showers.
With its potential for falls and absence of safety features such as grab bars and seats in the tub or shower area, along with molds and mildew that can create health problems for young and old residents, “the bathroom is the most dangerous room in the house,” he said.
The home show also will feature a Direct Sales and Home-Based Showcase, and an Art and Craft Showcase for unique handmade items. Author’s Avenue will include six local authors with their books, CDs and DVDS for autographs and purchase.
Ask the experts
The Main Stage will feature “Ask the Experts” presentations and seminars. Starr Hill Winery will be on hand at the Wine Pavilion with 20 varieties of wine with samples and wine for sale by the glass or by the bottle. The Kid’s Kingdom will have a variety of activities for children.
Guest speakers will include Terrie Christine, author of “The Secret Power of You: A Guide to Mastering your Inner Greatness,” and Stan Gordon, UFO and Bigfoot researcher, who will conduct a panel discussion on the latest sightings in Western Pennsylvania.
Those attending may bring a nonperishable item for Crossroads Presbyterian Church Food Pantry or pet food for local pet shelters and get buy-one, get-one-free admission.
