Polamalu, wife visit Monessen

MONESSEN - Patrons at the St. Spyridon Greek Festival were treated to a visit by a special guest whose arrival even surprised the man who invited him.

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu and his wife, Theodora, were surprise guests in Monessen for the weekend event.

Bill and Lola Manus met the Polamalus last October at the Lowe's Theater in Homestead. Learning that Theodora Polamalu's parents were born in Greece, the Manuses began talking to the Steeler player about the church's Greek Festival.

Last week, Manus, who is an organizer of the festival, sent a letter to Polamalu, inviting him to the festival.

But even he was surprised when the Polamalus arrived Saturday night.

Manus said the couple thanked him for the invitation. They enjoyed dinner and Greek entertainment. Theodora Polamalu even called her grandmother on her cellular telephone so she could listen to the Greek music.

They also asked to visit the church.

Afterward, Polamalu signed autographs for awestruck fans. Manus said several fans began calling friends on their cellular telephones to let them know of the special visitor.

Before leaving, the Polamalus told Manus to keep in touch.