Glassport, Pennsylvania
News Articles
This page is for news articles which appear in present on-line newspapers, magazines, etc. concerning Glassport or Glassport people. The articles are copied directly from the source.
McKeesport Daily News March 22, 2003
Glassport Girl Scouts, earn religious awards
Registered Girl Scouts of Glassport will gather tomorrow at 8:45 a.m. in Queen of the Rosary Church to participate in the 9 a.m. Mass. The Rev. Casimir Kedzierski will officiate and present the Religious awards and the Millennium patches to scouts.
Guardian Angel Award will be presented to Daisy Scout Sabrina Naylor of Troop 22. She studied with Barbara Sowko to learn the importance of angels in the Bible as messengers and protectors and guardian angels as advisors and protectors.
Family of God religious medal will be presented to Brownie Scouts Julianna Burgman, Kirstie Cross, Carleigh DeSue and Rachel Szmyd of Troop 912. They studied with Carol Dworek and Sowko, religious awards counselors, who encouraged them to learn more about themselves and their relationship to God, their family and community.
I Live My Faith religious medals will be presented to Katie Barnett and Kristen Kudla of Troop 912; and Cassandra McClelland of Troop 1082. They studied with Dworek where they learned to grow as Christians, while doing activities that help them to learn more about their Catholic faith.
God and Me religious medal, which is a program for Christians of other faiths, will be presented to Alexandria Randolph of Troop 562. She studied with Danette Lees and learned the relationship between the scout and the importance of God.
Millennium patches will be presented to Julianna Burgman, Kirstie Cross and Jacqueline Tyskiewicz of Troop 912; Robyn Drowser and Brittney Hallick of Troop 562; Veronica Tyskiewicz of Troop 1082; and Boy Scouts Joseph Molinaro and John Paul Spanbauer of Troop 57.
Other Scouts earning religious awards by working with Sowko are Alexandra Reid and Sarah Gooch. They studied the life of Kateri Tekakwitha and the Sacraments that she received. They will receive their Kateri Tekakwitha medal from Bishop Winter at the Convocation at St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh April 6 at 2 p.m.
McKeesport Daily News April 9, 2003
Retiring Glassport police chief cited for service
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport council and residents said good-bye to longtime police chief Eugene Skerkoski.
Skerkoski, who finished work Friday, will use up his vacation time until his actual retirement date of June 1.
Skerkoski said he thought long and hard about retiring but decided now is the time. He served with the department for 35 years, the last four as chief. Council members said they are reluctant to see the chief go.
Council was joined at last night's meeting by- state Sen. Sean Logan, D-Monroeville, and state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-Dravosburg, who presented Skerkoski with citations and a flag.
Councilman John D'Angelo said he always knew Skerkoski loved his job. "I feel he wanted to be where he was. He always did extra things he didn't have to do," D'Angelo said. "I certainly want to thank him for giving his life to us."
Councilman Terry DiMarco agreed with D'Angelo's praise. "Everything he always told us at the end of whatever complaint he might have was that life was good," DiMarco remembered.
Council has received two applications for the position of chief from current lieutenants Ronald Benoit and Howard Kifer. The two are the officers in charge now that Skerkoski has left the force. Council decided to interview both men at a later date then make a decision on who to name chief.
In other business, council accepted the resignation of Mayor Tom Urbanski as temporary building inspector. Urbanski said he only took the position as a temporary thing. Council members said they now will advertise for a new building inspector.
Council also accepted the resignation of borough treasurer Geralyn Testa, effective in June. Testa resigned to spend more time with her family and said she will work with whoever council appoints to ensure a smooth transition. Council will advertise for this position as well.
In other news, council decided to look into the possibility of accepting debit or credit card payments for borough bills. More information on whether this is feasible will be discussed at a later date.
McKeesport Daily News April 9, 2003
Glassport Women planning to meet
Glassport Women's Club will meet Thursday at 1 p.m. in the community library.
Plans for the annual spring dinner in May will be discussed and a report from the nominating committee will be presented.
Hostesses for the social are Dorothy Manszlak, Marge Hanley and Regina Deliman. An Easter theme will be the motif.
McKeesport Daily News April 24, 2003
Kifer named Glassport police chief
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Lt. Howard Kifer will take over the reins as Glassport's police chief.
At a special meeting last night, council narrowly appointed Kifer to the position left open when Chief Eugene Skerkoski retired earlier this month after several years on the job.
Councilmen John D'Angelo and James Morningstar voted against Kifer's appointment.
Councilman James Uziel was not present. Kifer was up for the position against Lt. Ronald Benoit.
All councilmen said the decision was not easy.
"This was one of the hardest decisions I ever had to make while sitting here," D'Angelo said. "(They) are both extremely qualified."
Council President Robert Stefanie agreed. "It was very hard to weigh this out, probably why it took us so long to get to this point," Stefanie said.
Councilman Edward Mihoces said he's sure Kifer will get the job done. "Kifer's been here a long time, and he has a great record here," Mihoces explained.
Kifer said he's happy to step in as chief after serving as a borough police officer since 1982. He worked as an officer for West Elizabeth for five years beforehand. "I'm honored to receive the position and hope I can fulfill my obligations like Chief Eugene Skerkoski," Kifer said.
Kifer added there would be no hard feelings between him and the dissenting councilmen. "I'm here to do a job and to work for the borough," Kifer explained. "I'll help (council) do whatever we need to do."
McKeesport Daily News May 3, 2003
SA celebrates new school building
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
After a lengthy period of anticipation and quite a bit of controversy, a local school district dedicated its new elementary school.
South Allegheny Elementary, located in Port Vue off Washington Boulevard, was dedicated yesterday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks from several speakers. Students, staff and administration filled the gymnasium at the school. Most in attendance were clad in blue and gold, SA colors. The school houses students who formerly went to Port Vue, Glassport and Manor elementaries, and classes have been in session there since January.
The facility finally was built after months of tension in the district between those in support of the project and those against.
Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll, who used to be a teacher, commended the district for its improvements and the school. "The best thing to do in this commonwealth is to educate," she said. In addition to the improvements made, she said the state of school security impressed her. "I'm glad to see the proactive role with ensuring safety of the children," she said. "I see that the staff at South Allegheny is eager to meet needs of the children and meet state standards (of education proficiency)." She added the building is an achievement that establishes a foundation for the future and quality education at SA.
With kindergarten and first-graders housed in one facility - South Allegheny Early Childhood Center in Liberty - the district also is aligning needs to standards recently discussed by Gov. Ed Rendell.
Two former superintendents gave their thoughts on the new school. Charles Lalley told students they have something to look forward thanks to all the efforts put into the project. Donald Lee, who now is superintendent at Shaler Area School District, said he knew the facility was a success as soon as he walked in the door. "When I looked at the teachers, I could just see the joy on their faces," he said.
Dr. Linda Croushore, executive director of Mon Valley Education Consortium, said she was happy the dedication finally arrived. "What an honor it is to get to this day," she said. Croushore added that students rise to the standards of their leaders, and SA has raised the bar high with the school board and all the people who put time into the project. "There are so many people that helped shape this final product," she said.
SA Board President Walter Hibner touched on how the school will benefit students. "This new building will give you the tools of quality education," he said. Hibner added that the dedication of South Allegheny Elementary signifies a memorable event for the district. "Today marks a milestone in history for South Allegheny," he said. "You are the first students to represent unity of all four (district) communities. You are the future of South Allegheny."
In addition to these comments and the ribboncutting, the ceremony included musical performances by SA Elementary stu dents, other remarks and a presentation of appreciation to fourth-grader Eric Tyskiewicz for the design on the dedication program. Eric also presented Knoll with a South Allegheny T-shirt like those the students were wearing during the dedication.
McKeesport Daily News May 7, 2003
Glassport gets new U.S. flag to replace its 48-star version
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Old Glory has been displayed proudly in almost every council chamber for as long as many of us can remember. In Glassport, however, one flag has flown somewhat longer.
Recently, councilors discovered the U.S. flag on display there was missing something - a couple of stars. Councilman James Foster recalled the moment exactly. A month or so ago, he and other councilors were looking around chambers thinking of ways to improve its look. "We were talking about how old some of the things were and I pulled the flag out," Foster recalled. "I immediately said `Hey, this is a few stars short."' Two to be exact.
The even row pattern of the flag tipped Foster off. The 48-star flag has six horizontal rows of eight stars. The current 50-star flag has five rows of six stars and four rows of five.
Foster said no one knows exactly how old the flag is, but research into council records should be able to turn that number up. The 48-star flag was first made on July 4, 1912, with the addition of New Mexico and Arizona to the union. President William Taft was in office at the time of its approval. That flag was official for 47 years until the addition of Alaska in January 1959. It was the longest-used flag in American history and flew during two World Wars and the presidencies of Taft, Woodrow Wilson, Warren Harding, Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower. That places the age of Glassport's flag anywhere between 44 and 90 years old.
Council President Robert Stefanic guessed the flag was purchased at the same time as the borough's state flag, but has no idea when that was. The incorrect flag likely went undetected for years because of the manner in which it is displayed. Draped from a flagpole, many of the stars aren't easily visible. Stefanic said when Foster stretched the flag out, everyone was surprised. "He opened up the flag and saw the difference in the stars," he noted. "You think someone would've noticed it somewhere along the line." The councilors said they weren't sure why no one bought a new flag with the addition of Alaska and Hawaii as states.
Foster guessed Glassport's flag is probably among the last of its kind. "You don't see many of these, especially those still in use," he joked. "That's what shocked us." The quality of the flag's creation probably sustained its existence, Foster said, as the flag appears to be handsewn.
Glassport plans to assure that the flag stays good for a long time to come. "As soon as I saw that flag, I thought, `We've got to save it,"' Foster explained. He said he's trying to find out the proper way to clean and store the flag.
It will more than likely be housed in the borough building or the library in a glass case for public view.
A new flag for council chambers was donated by U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, D Swissvale. That flag, complete with 50 stars, flew over the U.S. Capitol for a day.
The 50-star flag has been in use since 1960. It's the 27th U.S. flag and has flown during the presidencies of Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
McKeesport Daily News May 14, 2003
Glassport to open swimming pool
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport residents have their pool back.
Last night, councilors approved the reopening of the swimming pool. Councilors earlier had voted to keep the pool closed this summer to cut costs. However, at the urging of a council chamber full of community members, council decided to allow it to open once again. Hours and days of operation may be limited. Councilors Terry DiMarco, James Foster, Ed Mihoces, James Morningstar, James Uziel and President Robert Stefanic voted for the pool. Councilor John D'Angelo voted no, although he said his decision was to keep borough costs down, not because he's against the pool.
Councilors said the pool is never a money maker for the borough, and profits don't cover costs. Mayor Tom Urbanski reported that last year the pool lost around $40,000. Approximately $43,000 was spent to pay for lifeguards and other employees. Around $20,000 went to materials and supplies. Councilors discussed the idea of marketing the pool better, and renting it out for nighttime parties. Another possibility is opening the pool only five days a week. D'Angelo suggested the borough look into getting a group of community members together to promote the pool.
This year, the borough's budget did include a line item for the pool. Around $60,000 was allotted. However, councilors said money is tight in the borough and they'll have to make some cuts elsewhere to make up the difference.
In other business, councilors approved a Keystone Opportunity Zone ordinance. A state program designed to encourage development, Keystone allows a new business to move into abandoned areas without having to pay certain taxes for seven years. These are taxes such as local real estate, business privilege, business occupancy, mercantile, earned income and county sales taxes. Nearly 40 acres in Glassport qualify for this program. The area is located behind the 'borough building and was formerly a foundry operation. A new tire reprocessing business is interested in filling the space and using this program. Although the borough would not receive any tax income for several years under the program, councilors cited benefits such as jobs and future tax revenue on the unused property. The plans now must be approved by the school district and the county.
McKeesport Daily News May 14, 2003
Glassport Women plan Spring Dinner
Annual Spring Dinner of the Glassport Women's Club will take place tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. at McArdle's Restaurant, White Oak. Ruth Whirl will offer the invocation. Installation of officers is planned.
Assuming duties will be Donna Kurucz, president; Sandy Urbanski, vice president; Betty Gaydos, secretary; and Dorothy Rizzo, treasurer. Anne Dzurko and Florence Gerstner will be installed as library coordinators.
Alicia Guadagni, a senior at South Allegheny High School, will be introduced as this year's scholarship recipient. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Guadagni and plans to attend California University of Pennsylvania.
McKeesport Daily News May 15, 2003
Glassport
Training drill planned
Glassport will host a training drill Saturday at 9 a.m. It will begin as a fire call and will turn into a haz-mat situation. Glassport fire companies, Allegheny County haz-mat teams, and fire companies from Dravosburg and McKeesport will be on scene. Residents are reminded that this is only a drill and to not become alarmed.
Grass must be cut
Residents are reminded to keep their grass cut appropriately. Residents who notice other residents' grass growing out-of-hand are asked to contact the borough.
Ordinances adopted
Council adopted an ordinance forbidding the parking of motor vehicles on borough streets during snow emergencies, snow and ice storms and during snow removal. Also adopted was an ordinance prohibiting the storage of motor vehicle parts and prohibiting the repair of motor vehicles on public streets. The ordinance does not include standard car maintenance.
McKeesport Daily News May 21, 2003
Glassport voters pick newcomers and incumbents
Two incumbents and two newcomers swept the Democratic party's nomination in Glassport. Two current councilmen did not make the cut for the four open four-year council seats.
According to complete but unofficial results from Allegheny County Elections Division, Councilman John D'Angelo, newcomers Michael Ksiazek and John Desue, and Councilman James Uziel finished first, second, third and fourth in yesterday's primary.
D'Angelo finished with 564 votes, Ksiazek with 490, Desue with 464, and Uziel with 406.
Current Councilman James Foster received 248 votes. Councilman James Morningstar got 305 votes. Also running was John McCombs with 367 votes. Former Police Chief Eugene Skerkoski received 644 votes to get on the Democratic ticket for the two-year open council spot. He was unopposed.
Also unopposed was Joseph Steffan, the Democrat running for constable. He got 662 votes.
McKeesport Daily News May 21, 2003
New faces join SA incumbents
Five seats are up for grabs on South Allegheny School District board of directors and for the most part, new faces will appear on the ballot in the fall.
According to complete but unofficial results from Allegheny County Elections Division, only two incumbents will be on the November ballot.
On the Democratic side, top vote-getters are newcomers Blair Wojton (1,299), Caroline Popovic (1,195) and Falco Muscante (1,137), as well as incumbents Russell Geary (1,108) and Luke Riley (1,100).
Others getting votes were newcomers Rachelle Popowitz See (1,039) and Tricia Scott (940), along with incumbents Thomas Dudek (939), John Matyasovsky (911), and current Board President Walter Hibner (902).
On the Republican ticket, the names on the November ballot all will be new.
Top vote-getters included Wojton (195), Muscante (187), Scott (175), Popovic (169) and Popowitz See (160).
Other candidates include Riley (134), Hibner (121), Matyasovsky (120) and Dudek (118).
McKeesport Daily News May 21, 2003
Daniel Pepe awarded Ph.D
Dr. Daniel A. Pepe was graduated summa cum laude with a doctor of philosophy degree in health services management from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.
Son of Mary Pepe of Glassport and the late Elmer Pepe, he received a bachelor's degree in pharmacy from Duquesne University in 1979 and master's degree in business administration, magna cum laude, in 1998 from the University of Southern California.
He resides in the Chicago area with his wife, the former Barbara Brusco of Clairton, and their daughter, Alyssa.
McKeesport Daily News May 21, 2003
Glassport AL 443 announces plans
Glassport American Legion Post 443 will meet tonight at 7 in the post home.
Following the meeting, the Home Association will gather.
Nomination and election of officers will take place.
On Friday, the South Allegheny Middle School will hold its annual spelling bee at 1:30 p.m. Awards will follow the program.
A memorial service will be offered Sunday at 6 p.m. in Memorial Park to honor all veterans. Following the program, refreshments will be served in the post home.
McKeesport Daily News May 22, 2003
Glassport Youth plan `Night Alive'
Youth Group of Glassport Assembly of God, Ohio Avenue and Fifth Street, will sponsor Friday Night Alive tomorrow from 7 to 11 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by Kervx, a Christian rap group.
Other activities will include basketball, pool and air hockey. Refreshments will be available. Additional information may be obtained by calling 412-672-6757.
McKeesport Daily News May 23, 2003
SA board mulls tire plant proposal
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
South Allegheny residents might see new jobs in Glassport if a new tire processing business is permitted to open in that borough. At last night's school board meeting, Rubin Bailey, president of Recycled Resources Inc. - the proposed business - discussed with school directors how the district could reap benefits if the company is opened locally.
To move forward with the project, South Allegheny would need to approve a Keystone Opportunity Zone resolution. Keystone, a state program designed to encourage development, allows a new business to move into abandoned areas without having to pay certain taxes for seven years. The business would be exempt until Dec. 31, 2010, according to the resolution. These taxes include local real estate, business privilege, business occupancy, mercantile, earned income and county sales taxes.
About 40 acres in Glassport qualify for the program, which is located behind the borough building. This area was formerly a foundry operation. The resolution was passed unanimously in Glassport at the last council meeting.
Bailey said the business, which he assured is environmentally safe, would bring about 200-300 jobs to the area in a year. He said 63 positions would open in the first phase - six to eight months from the opening of the company. Jobs would include manual labor, engineering and technical positions, and most wages would start at $10 per hour, Bailey noted. "This would enhance and bring tax base to the Mon Valley," he stressed.
Directors didn't make a decision on the resolution because they didn't feel prepared enough to vote on the issue. Therefore it will be discussed further at a special meeting Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the administrative conference room, prior to a budget meeting.
In other news, the board narrowly passed the tentative budget, which includes no tax increase from last year's figures - a millage rate of 13.83, with one mill generating approximately $242,000. The preliminary budget - $16,925,620 - passed 5-4, with directors Terry Dozzi, Dino DiFelice, Dianne Rosche and Doris Bailley dissenting. Board President Walter Hibner, Vice President John Matyasovsky and directors Russell Geary, Luke Riley and Thomas Dudek voted in favor of the budget. DiFelice said since board members only received the budget at Wednesday's work session, there was not enough time to review it. The budget will be discussed further at a special meeting Tuesday in the administrative conference room.
McKeesport Daily News May 28, 2003
SA board examines possible cuts
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
For South Allegheny School District to avoid a tax increase, cuts will have to be made to several programs, as well as to other areas that can be eliminated.
At a workshop last night, school directors discussed possible ways to reduce expenses for next year, but nothing is set in stone at this point.
Directors adopted the tentative budget at the regular meeting last week, which includes no millage increase from last year's rate, which is 13.83 mills. One mill generates approximately $242,000 for South Allegheny. Although SA faces a $1 million deficit for the coming year, Superintendent Patrick Risha said the district is in better shape than most surrounding schools, based on their budget approvals. Business manager Sharon Miller said the deficit represents approximately four mills, but there are no discussions of a tax increase.
Risha reviewed the district's fund balance last night, which has increased $2,839,443 since 1995. He also said South Allegheny has the lowest millage rate of school districts in Allegheny County, noting there hasn't been a tax increase since 1991. Another problem is increased costs, some of which were uncontrollable. Health insurance increased $365,000, and was the biggest hike in the budget. Other increases that could not be controlled include retirement costs, salaries and a loss of interest earnings. Additional costs include middle school, athletics, information science technology curriculum, nursing, security and school police, insurance packages, bond debt and full day kindergarten.
Miller said there is currently $2.1 million in the fund balance, and $980,000 of that would be used this year. The remaining balance would be depleted if there are no cuts.
Based on budgets from different departments, the board reviewed a list of possible cuts. Some programs and positions affected include middle/high school co-educational soccer, in-school suspension, school-to-work, transition coordinator, technology modules, band raincoats, ice hockey donation, electricity for certain evening athletic events and high school athletic director, special education aides, substitute call-offs, custodial/maintenance workers and overtime hours for school police officers working at evening events.
State Sen. Sean Logan, D-Monroeville, talked to the board about the proposed Phase II of the budget, which would provide for education initiatives and funding. Possible funding for school improvement, according to Gov. Ed Rendell's proposal, includes full-day kindergarten, prekindergarten, class size reduction, tutoring, staff development, and math and reading coaches. For SA to receive this funding, if the budget is approved, more than 35 percent of students must be eligible for the free or reduced lunch program.
Another aspect of this phase of Rendell's budget is property taxes, and Logan said with his proposal, each South Allegheny resident would get a 42 percent rebate, or $307.
Another source of funding that would come in with the proposal is a poverty supplement, which for SA, would bring in $854;670.
Risha stressed the final state figures won't be known until June 29, so SA could make cuts then find out they are receiving public education funding.
McKeesport Daily News May 28, 2003
SA board approves KOZ for tire plant
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
By a tight vote, South Allegheny school directors passed a resolution making a section of Glassport exempt from taxes for seven years. At a special meeting last night, the vote for a Keystone Opportunity Zone passed 4-3, with Board President Walter Hibner, Vice President John Matyasovsky and directors Dino DiFelice and Luke Riley ruling in favor. Directors Terry Dozzi, Doris Bailley and Dianne Rosche voted against the resolution. Directors Tom Dudek and Russell Geary were absent from the meeting.
SA was the last taxing body needed to approve this resolution, as it already was OK'd by Glassport and Allegheny County councils, said business manager Sharon Miller.
The district loses approximately $15,000 in taxes for approving this resolution, and Glassport is set back about $5,000.
KOZ, a state program designed to encourage development, allows a new business to move into an abandoned area without having to pay certain taxes for seven years.
A tire processing company - Recycled Resources Inc. - has expressed interest in this land, and representatives have received mixed - reviews from the district. The business would be exempt until Dec. 10, 2010, according to the resolution. Taxes include local real estate, business privilege, business occupancy, mercantile, earned income and county sales taxes. About 40 acres in Glassport qualify for the program, which is located behind the borough building. The area was formerly a foundry operation.
Rubin Bailey, president of the company, said the operation would create 200 to 300 jobs, and he would try to keep 30 percent of those positions for district residents. Jobs would include manual labor, engineering and technical positions, and most wages would start at $10 per hour, Bailey noted. "I want to invest money in these people and create jobs," he said.
Glassport Councilman Terry DiMarco, who was at the meeting, inquired if funds would be available to help restore roads from increased truck traffic caused from tire deliveries. Bailey said he would look into that, but he doesn't plan on coming in and being a detriment to the community. About 10 to 15 trucks would be traveling local roads for the deliveries per day, he said. Bailey said he prefers the tires to be transported by barge, but the supplier owns a trucking company, so that method is more cost-effective. The president added that since the company is an inhouse operation, residents would not feel the effect of dust, smoke and noise as that would be contained in the building. "It's a closed system, so we're not emitting anything into the air," he said.
McKeesport Daily News May 29, 2003
Glassport
Disorderly logged
Susan Ganer, 43, of Glassport, was cited with disorderly conduct after reportedly making repeated phone calls to 911 early Tuesday morning, according to police.
Harassment cited
James Rocco, 33, of Glass port, was cited for harassment after police said he made repeated calls to 911 Tuesday night.
McKeesport Daily News June 5, 2003 - Letter to the Editor
Glassport leader responds to `pool' letter
This letter is in response to one called, "Glassport needs pool, new leaders."
I did not originally vote to close the pool in December along with five other councilmen for one year. Then, in the early spring, when the other five waffled on their decisions under pressure from residents, I stuck to my convictions and was the only vote against opening the pool this year. I requested repeatedly to have a study done during the off season on the operations at that facility that lost $40,000 last year. This study was never done and consequently, I fear that we are bound to repeat the devastating losses.
The opening of the pool with no game plan for offsetting the losses is simply not good fiscal management. When coupled with the other borough debacles such as the $80,000 in debt carried over from last year, the $200,000 of mismanaged monies from a COPS fast grant program that the federal government is demanding we pay back and the $50,000 plus spent on the boat docks, one does not have to be a genius to see where the borough is headed.
No councilman ever voted to purchase boat docks. If you are told they did, ask to see the record of the vote. The only vote taken on this subject was to look into the possibility of putting boat docks in. From that day on, Council President Bob Stefanic took over and made the unbudgeted purchases.
Opening the pool this year without a plan for controlling losses is a fiscally irresponsible as not doing anything about the huge debt from last year. If anyone decides to replace leaders, they need to check the record and see who is responsible for looking the other way on the above-mentioned issues and refrain from lumping all council people into one category.
I never intended to close the pool for good. I never voted to install boat docks in Glassport. I don't think they are needed. They have already been vandalized three times and there isn't one space rented yet. I voted against the 2003 budget because it was not balanced. So you see Mr. Stetor, I do represent all the people of Glassport, I just need some help in doing so. Maybe the new faces on council will bring some relief to these situations.
John A. D'Angelo Glassport Councilman
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING OF GLASSPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL JUNE 10, 2003
The Regular Monthly Meeting of he Glassport Borough Council was called to order.
Roll Call:
D'Angelo, present; DiMarco, present; Foster, present; Mihoces, present; Momingstar, present; Uziel, present; Stefanic, present; Mayor Urbanski, present
All rise for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by D'Angelo, second by Foster to bear citizen requests and complaints.
Motion Carried,
Ernest Kantorczyk - About the road up there. There are three spots up there that need fixed. It is not that old and all ready it needs repaired. They are at the corner of Naomi and Scenic. Then where the water company did work on the other end of Naomi, it needs redone again. They finally came after six weeks and fixed the problem on my property.
Is the borough still going to put the sewers in at the other end. What is the depth going to he? Is the borough equipped to do that kind of work?
Mayor: I think that what Mr. Kantorczyk is trying to say is when we go that deep, are we going to have something to shore it up for the safety of the men.
That is what I am getting at I am just concerned for the safety of the men.
Motion by Uziel second by Foster to resume regular order of business. Motion Carried.
Tax Collector Report - Submitted by Carol Pasinski, Tax Collector Monthly Report read by Robert Stefanic.
STREET & LIGHT - Jim Uziel, Chairman
The monthly report is not available at this time and will be submitted for the record at the next meeting.
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION - Robert Stefanic, Chairman
Monthly report read and submitted for borough record.
SANITATION, RECYCLING & ORDINANCES - Jim Morningstar, Chairman
Recycling will he held in the month of July.
There will be a couple of resolutions read along with the first reading of Ordinance No. 1039 - Rate increase for parking violations.
POLICE, FIRE, WATER & AMBULANCE - Terry DiMarco, Chairman
Monthly Fire Report read. Monthly Kennel Report read. Monthly Meter Report read.
We dropped Lee Mendlowitz from towing for the borough because this is the fourth time this year that his insurance has been cancelled.
Mayor: I spoke today with Paul, and while he tow the accidents, he cannot handle all of the junk cars in the borough. I met today with Yurechko from Boston to tow our junk cars. He provided proof of insurance.
Motion made by DiMarco, second by Mihoces to hire Yurechko to tow the junk vehicles from the borough and keep Paul Beisler to handle the towing of accidents. Motion Carried.
I received a bill for $150.00 for the removal of animals at two locations which was called in by our police. It has always been paid by the homeowner in the past. These were raccoons which are not picked up by Feree Kennels. I am not going to pay this bill.
I would also like to look into the Ordinance that deals with the riding of skateboards and bikes on our streets. I would like to possibly expand on it to make the fines heavier. This is becoming a frequent problem.
SENIOR CITIZENS & SWIMMING POOL - Edward Mihoces, Chairman
The pool is just about ready to open. Passes will be going on sale tomorrow. PARKS & RECREATION - Jim Foster, Chairman
There was more vandalism at the ball field this weekend again. The police are patrolling, but they have had no luck in catching who is doing it.
Since we have not yet received the funds for the Thud Street Park, we are going to go ahead and install the playground equipment at mat location, and then build the rest of the park once the funds are released. The money is there, but there are some questions about the plans.
Motion made by Foster, second by Uziel to lower the fees for the boat docks for this season only from $25.00 to $15.00. Motion Carried.
SEWAGE PLANT & TRCOG - John D'Angelo, Chairman
Monthly TRCOG report given.
TRCOG needs a letter advising them to proceed with the Euclid Avenue Reconstruction Project. CHC#1 contacted the TRCOG to see if they could get money to have dry hydrants installed in several locations of the borough. These would allow water to be pumped directly from the river or alternate water source. Currently they are contacting other municipalities to go into the program with them.
The demolition had to be stopped at 518 Eighth Street because there are still utilities hooked up. The borough needs to intervene and have the utilities turned off so that they may proceed. If they go back again and it is still on, they will leave and it will be taken off of the demolition list.
Monthly Sewage Report read and submitted for borough record.
Received notification today that things are looking good for receiving sludge from Elizabeth Township Sewage Authority. We should begin to receive sludge within the next three to four weeks.
MAYOR'S REPORTS - Thomas Urbanski, Mayor
Monthly Police Report read and submitted for borough record.
Monthly Juvenile Report read and submitted for borough record.
Monthly Adult Arrest Report read and submitted for borough record.
Usually in June we take a good look at our budget and see where we stand We need to take a good look at our budget for the police department next month and see where the spending is. We also need to look at our audit. This is June and we still have not seen a copy of the audit The audit should be done in three months, and before it is sent to the state, it should be presented to council for review and approval. It costs us $26,000 per month for labor for the police department, and at this rate 1 am not sure we will even make it to November if we continue going this way. We better look at the budget and see where we stand with the money
Monthly Building Inspector Report read and submitted for borough record.
SOLICITOR - Gary Matta
Reading of Resolution No. 1 (6-10-03) - Police Policy Manual
Motion made by Momingstar second by DiMarco to accept the reading of Resolution #1 (6-10-03). Motion Carried.
Reading of amendment to Ordinance No. 1016 - Borough Act 77 Motion made by Momingstar second by D'Angelo to accept the change in Ordinance No. 1016 second by D'Angelo. Motion Carried.
First reading of Ordinance No. 1039 - Parking Violations Motion made by Momingstar second by DiMarco to accept the first reading of Ordinance No. 1039. Motion Carried.
Second reading of Ordinance No. 1039 - Parking Violations Motion made by Momingstar second by D'Angelo to accept the second reading of Ordinance No. 1039. Motion Carried.
ENGINEER-Scott Hilty
We finally received approval from the Army Corp of Engineers for Change Order No. 1 to have the stock pile soil be removed at the sewage plant. It will be done within the next two weeks. All the bid tabulations have been turned over to TRCOG for the Euclid Avenue Project. We anticipate that this project will start some time in July.
The sewage budget for next year will have to include a line item for long term control plan. The amount has not yet been determined. This plan will be done by the end of June.
We had a meeting with the residents concerning the Naomi Avenue Sewer Extension Project Three out of die five families showed up. 1 tried to contact the remaining two families but so far 1 have been unsuccessful. We need direction from the borough as to how they want us to proceed. The next step of the project would be to start final design plans. We have not yet heard anything from Rosemary in the way of funding.
Motion made by Uziel second by D'Angelo to accept all borough reports as read and to move on to communications.
1. Department of the Auditor General - audit of the Liquid Fuels Tax Fund for the period of January 1,2001 to December 31,2002 will be conducted on June 16, 2003-9:00 A.M.
2. PennDot District II - Comprehensive Maintenance Agreement from Marilyn Ecoff for the fiscal year beginning July 1,2003 and ending June 30,2004.
3. Letter from PA DEP regarding Act 339 concern over the loss of funding under fiscal year 2003-2004 State Budget. 4. Comcast letter dated May 29,2003, upcoming price decrease on July 1,2003 for Basic customers. Any questions, call (412) 875-1100. The current rate is $12.32 and will drop down to $12.12. 5. CD Year 30 Pre-Applications - Safe Neighborhood Demolition Properties: a.) 315/317 Fifth Street (duplex) - 467-R-281 b.) 530 Ohio Avenue -467-P-43 c.) 406 Erie Avenue - 467-C-263 d.) 608 Maryland Avenue - 558-D-339 e.) 615 Michigan A venue-558-C-308 f.) 437 Erie Avenue -467-R-241 g.) 638-640 Ohio Avenue & 638 1/2 Hemlock - 558-B-37 h.) 520 Broadway - Joseph Lizik
CD Year 30 Pre-Application Projects
a.) STP UV Disinfection System b.) Ninth Street Concession Stand c.) Riverfront Park Beautification Project (Materials Only) d.) Juniata Avenue Sanitary Sewer Extension e.) Swimming Pool Slide (Materials Only) f.) Off Street Parking Property Acquisitions g.) Delaware Avenue Road Rehabilitation h.) Naomi Avenue Sanitary
6. West Mifflin Borough will host a TRCOG Municipal Secretaries Meeting on Wednesday, June 11,2003 at noon. 7. The Engineer has reviewed the bids received on May 12,2003 for the Euclid Avenue Rehabilitation. McKee Asphalt Paving submitted the low bid and it appears to be fair and reasonable. Council voted at the May 13,2003 meeting to proceed with the base bid for Option 1 and accept the bid from McKee in the amount of $35,853.50.
Motion made by Uziel second by Foster to send a letter to TRCOG accepting the bid. Motion Carried.
The borough share will be approximately $I0,000.
8. The Tax Collector turned over the 2002 delinquents to Keystone. The total face delinquent Borough Real Estate is $71,110.90. Face amount for three partial payments is $914.71 for a total of $72,025.61. The amount all ready paid from three partial payments is $584.87. Total turned over to Keystone is $71,440.74.
Motion made by Uziel second by D'Angelo to accept all communications as read.
Motion Carried.
NEW BUSINESS
Eugene Skerkoski information was submitted to Boetger & Associates for the tabulation of his pension plan benefits. Each council member received a copy and should accept and approve the 90 accumulated sick day payment for June 20,2003.
Motion made by Foster second by D'Angelo to accept
Motion Carried
We need a renewal agreement for the Senior Citizen building located at 544 Monongahela Avenue with Lifespan. The current agreement will expire on June 30, 2003. Mr. Mihoces recommended last night that we go with them again.
D'Angelo - in light of the condition of this building, we might want to consider occupying the senior citizen building temporarily and move the seniors up to the youth center building until we come up with a plan of what we want to do with this building. If that is not an issue, men we should continue with Lifespan.
Uziel -1 agree. We should have done this a long time ago.
D'Angelo -1 just don't want us to enter into a contract with Lifespan and have to break it At any given day we could be forced to move from this building.
Mihoces - They leave every day at 1:00 p.m.
Mavor -I have been condemning properties the last couple off weeks with Mr.- DiMarco. and I think that this building is worse man any building we have in our community. It should be condemned and we should make some sort of attempt to look for money for a new Borough building. We had a good start on getting this done, but somehow along the line I had $90,000 from CSX and they donated $60,000 to this community for economic development I didn't do much with it, I was making arrangements with Allegheny County to match what we had from CSX and the interest It never occurred because I found out that all the money we had from CSX in a special account was spent I don't know where it went, but I know the money is not there. One of my goals was to get a new borough building until I found out that we have no money to work with. If things would have went the proper way, we would have had a new borough building. I think this building should be taken down before it comes down itself. Nothing has been done to this building for 25 years. 1 mink we need to meet once again with the developer who will build us a building and we would pay him monthly.
Uziel - what is your opinion of relocating to the senior citizen building and rehabbing it as our permanent site?
Mayor - We have not parking. This is a great location here and I think we should stay in this spot. That building was on old movie house, and the floor goes down hill. It is a fire trap.
D'Angelo - I never intended it for a permanent site, just something temporary.
Mayor -1 asked the president of council what happened to our money that was in the bank. 1 was told we borrowed some and we are going to put it back. I think if we are going to make a move, we should do it within the next two or three months. Interest is low, work is slow with developers. I have a call into a fellow who wants to help us in our community as long as we put his dad's name on it.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Foster to approve the agreement with Lifespan with the stipulation that if we need to occupy the building we have that right.
Reliance Hose Co. #2 requests for their Centennial Celebration which will be held on September 5,6 & 7,2003 the use of the parking lot located behind the Glassport Borough building for extra parking due to the Band Festival and possible construction of Johnny K's.
Mayor -1 called Johnny K's about the grass and they said they are going to be starting soon.
Geralyn Testa would like to perform the Earned Income Tax Audit for the year ending June 30,2003.
Motion made by Morningstar second by D'Angelo to permit Gerry Testa to perform the Earned Income Tax Audit at a cost of $600.00. Motion Carried.
Mayor - Do we have a treasurer'? It is hard for me to believe that no one would want the job.
Minutes from April and May, 2003 have been submitted to council.
Motion made by Uziel second by Foster to accept the minutes from April and May 2003. Motion Carried.
DiMarco -I know that we agreed to shorten the minutes, but I think they are a little too short.
Momingstar - wasn't there supposed to be a correction to April's minutes that the mayor was marked absent and he was here.
Urbanski -I Think that they should list who made the motion and under remarks a short version of what was said.
Received a letter from Solicitor Cambest regarding the sewage line and pump station condemnation of Mary Jane Stanczak and a copy of a letter from Falco Muscante on the value. We need a motion to authorize the solicitor to negotiate a settlement.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Uziel to authorize the solicitor to negotiate a settlement with Mary Jane Stanczak. Motion Carried.
Five residents were notified regarding the Naomi Avenue Sanitary Sewer Extension. Need a motion to proceed with the project.
Motion made by D*Angelo second by Uziel to proceed with the project. Motion Carried.
Mayor - The two people who are under $27,000 we can look somehow to get them the $2,000 tap in fee. I think it would be unfair for them two people to pay when there were fifty some people who did not have to pay in the original project
D'Angelo - We have applied for CD money for that project and if that money comes in these people will be exempt from paying the $2,000. How can we exempt anyone if we don't get federal money. I think the next best thing we can do is submit a payment plan to them and let the borough be the grantor. I can't see how we exempt anybody. We did on the other project because we received federal money. Chances are that we are going to have to fund this project We are probably going to have to do it ourselves.
Mayor -I don't like seeing something pushed down peoples throats. How much would it take for us to try to get money. We should give it a good shot. I think we can get it.
D'Angelo -I am toying to get the money. I am pulling every string I can. This is just a small project and most times they grant the money to bigger projects. We were fortunate the last time that there was money left over so we could get reimbursed for the tap in fees. Federal money is not involved with this project. Only borough funds.
Motion made by Foster second by Uziel to pay all bills. Motion Carried
Mayor -I brought to the solicitor's and engineer's attention about a road off of Washington Blvd. by where Pasinski lives, is there any information on it? Is it ours or is it private property.
Hilty -I reported last meeting that it appears to be a private road.
Mayor - what if the person who owns it puts a horse across it and does not permit access to the homes in the back. We have been using it for 20 years or more so do we have the right to take it.
Solicitor - There are a number of different ways you can acquire the property, the question is does the borough want to.
Momingstar ~ You would assume that if there are two homes back there a right of way had to be granted at some time.
Uziel -I can't figure how it was assigned a street name. Normally a private drive is not assigned a name. I am not totally convinced that it is a private drive.
Momingstar -I went through the ordinances and I cannot find that road anywhere.
Joe Capozzoli -I want to know if anyone took a look at that wall that came down up there.
Uziel -I was there and looked at it It is your opinion mat the wall gave way because of the snow being pushed down from Pacific Avenue.
Capozzoli - If you look at it you will see where the curb is ate away and the water lays. That sewer was too far away from the water coming down. The people living in that house claimed you could see the water coming through the wall. Why would they come up there and plow the snow on that end. What had to happen is when they came in there with that high lift, they hit the pole that was holding the fence up on the other side.
Uziel - We checked other properties along Iowa Avenue, and it appears that they have the same problem. If you go north on Iowa, you will notice deterioration of other walls along there.
Mayor -I had Mr. Cambest and the engineer up there, and I think we should give him an opportunity to offer his opinion
Capozzoli - The only thing I am going to say is that if that road comes down, there are gas lines there mat are going to break.
Ken Harris - My wife works for the firm that conducted your audit. There are actually two parts of the audit. The first part was due March 31,2003 and it was submitted to the state on time. The second part is what she calls a full audit. Before it can be released an audit letter has to be signed and it has not yet been signed by the treasurer. The firm cannot be responsible to release that until they have all three signatures. They did not completely finish the full audit because they are missing a piece of information concerning the police pension.
Motion made by Uziel second by Foster to adjourn.
Motion Carried.
McKeesport Daily News June 11, 2003
Glassport ponders building dilemma
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport councilors are mulling over what to do about the dilapidated borough building. At last night's meeting, council discussed a variety of options, including demolishing the aging structure.
Mayor Tom Urbanski said something needs to be done before someone gets hurt. "Kids going into the library can get hit on the head with a stone or the police walking into the police station can get hit on the head with a brick," Urbanski said. "This building should be condemned," Urbanski added.
Councilors discussed the possibility of rebuilding on or near the same site. In the meantime, the borough offices could be moved to the senior citizen center building located along Monongahela Avenue, councilors suggested, by either occupying the building jointly or by moving the seniors to the youth center temporarily. Another possibility would be renting trailers to place behind the borough building to house the offices while the building is torn down and re-built. Councilors were not sure what to do with the library and police station, located within a newer section of the building.
Councilor John D'Angelo said action should be taken soon. "Any given day, we could be forced to move out of here," D'Angelo explained. "We've al ready got bricks falling off the building. What if something major falls off?" Urbanski agreed. "This building should come down before it comes down itself," he added.
In other business, council discussed another safety issue - bicycles, skateboards, and other wheeled devices. Councilor Terry DiMarco said two older women were hit by bicyclists speeding down sidewalks. Although the borough has an ordinance forbidding bikes and other like vehicles from operating on sidewalks, DiMarco asked for stricter enforcement. Urbanski agreed. "Someone is going to get killed one of these days when these kids go flying by, especially now that school is out," Urbanski said.
Council also discussed another youth problem last night. Councilman James Foster said another rash of vandalism has hit the ballpark. Foster said some youths did damage to the bleachers. Foster said anyone with more information on who these kids might be should contact the police department at 412-672-4514. In the meantime, Foster pleaded for an end to the damage. "It's going to get to the point where it'll get so bad we won't be able to afford to fix it," Foster explained.
In other business, council lowered the rental fees at the boat docks this season from $25 to $15 because of recent inclement weather.
McKeesport Daily News June 11, 2003
Glassport
Company seeks input
Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 is preparing a celebration to commemorate the 100th an niversary of the fire company. A memorial service will take place at the Honor Roll Friday at 6 p.m.
Organizers of the service are requesting input from family and friends of all deceased members. Call 412673-3057 if you would like to share information with the committee. Reliance would appreciate assistance in putting the committee in touch with any surviving family members.
McKeesport Daily News June 11, 2003
Glassport
Drunkenness reported
Lewis Brandon, 19, of Glassport, was cited for public drunkenness and underage drinking. Police said Brandon was cited after the incident early yesterday morning along Indiana Avenue. He also was cited for violating a borough ordinance restricting open containers in public, police said.
Disorderly conduct cited
Claudia Lutshic, 47, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct after police said she caused a potential hazard to herself along Ohio Avenue early yesterday morning.
McKeesport Daily News June 16, 2003
Glassport
Rabies clinic planned
A rabies clinic is planned for the borough garage along Monongahela Avenue on June 29 from noon to 2 p.m.
Rabies shots will be given by Dr. Jack Knuckle from Pittsburgh Animal Hospital.
Cost will be $5 per shot and proof of shots will be provided.
Councilman Terry DiMarco is sponsoring the clinic.
McKeesport Daily News June 20, 2003
SA avoids tax hike but faces $1 million deficit
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
South Allegheny school directors narrowly adopted their final budget, which includes no tax increase - but the district still faces a $1 million deficit. At last night's school board meeting, directors adopted the $16,871,867 budget with a 5-4 vote. The budget includes a millage rate of 14.98, with one mill bringing in approximately $266,000 for the district. At least $210,000 has been cut from the budget to avoid a tax increase.
School Board President Walter Hibner, Vice President John Matyasovsky and directors Luke Riley, Tom Dudek and Russell Geary voted in favor of the budget. Directors Terry Dozzi, Dianne Rosche, Doris Bailley and Dino DiFelice voted against the budget.
DiFelice said he thinks the budget should have been sent back and examined for more possible cuts to help lower the current deficit. "We should change the way we do business here," he said. "There are a lot of cuts that can be done. This is unacceptable in my opinion."
Bailley agreed the district needs to change its spending approach. "This is not how we should spend taxpayers' dollars. We are dwindling away the fund balance," she stressed. "We are hoping that the state bails us out." She added there is still "a lot of fat to cut from the budget."
Superintendent Patrick Risha said the board made the cuts that were possible, and he will not recommend any other decreases. Some of the directors said they were upset they didn't see the budget proposal until May 21, and said they were not aware of the shape the district is in. "I'm disappointed with the finance committee because the board was not notified," Bailley said.
Business manager Sharon Miller responded the board should have been aware of the deficit when she spoke about it a year ago. She added uncontrollable costs - including a $365,000 increase in health care and $195,000 in retirements - could not have been stopped. The district has not seen a tax increase in 12 years, and she said the budget is getting harder to work with. "It's getting difficult to control," she said.
Hibner stressed the board should have been aware of this. "If you didn't see this coming, you didn't have your eyes open," he said.
Dozzi said she doesn't like the budget because there will be at least three new school directors sitting on the board in December, and they will be faced with the deficit. She said most of the costs can be controlled because they are dealing with salaries. "Every administrator should take a step down the career ladder," she said. Dozzi added the next school board might have to increase taxes by a millage rate in the double digits. "I don't want to raise taxes, but this bothers me as much," she said.
Matyasovsky stressed there has been a lot of blame going around with the budget. "None of the districts are having a real good time putting together their budgets," he said. "We're in this together as a district, and it's time to act like sensible human beings."
McKeesport Daily News June 20, 2003
Glassport firm damaged by fire
By THE DAILY NEWS
A fire severely damaged a Glassport business.
Dan Kolick, assistant fire chief of Citizen's Hose, said the fire broke out in a car inside the garage at Paul's Auto Service along Mononahela Avenue early Wednesday morning. Kolick said the fire started as a mechanical malfunction within a customer's Cadillac. The fire quickly spread to another vehicle and then to the garage itself.
The other vehicle, Kolick said, belonged to Reliance Hose. The fire caused extensive damage to the garage.
Paul's Auto Service currently is operating out of its nearby body shop while the damage is assessed. The business was closed at the time of the fire and no one was injured.
McKeesport Daily News June 24, 2003 - Letter to the Editor
Glassport boat dock expenditure questioned
On June 8, 2002, I attended a Glassport Borough meeting regarding a situation occurring on the 500 block of Ohio Avenue in Glassport. Now it is June 16, 2003, one year later and still Glassport officials have given no results. So I decided to go to higher levels. One gentlemen made an effort for me while the other gentlemen never bothered to call at all.
What I cannot understand is why my tax money went to a $50,000 boat dock made out of five poles and I have not seen a boat down there yet, but Glassport officials will not hire a code ordinance officer. Why do we have borough officials who won't take time out to solve a problem, but yet they want residents' support? I am sure I am not the only resident who feels this way. I once thought Glassport was a nice place to live. Now I have a different view of the borough.
Joann Decolati Glassport
McKeesport Daily News July 9, 2003
Glassport residents voice safety concerns
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Safety concerns are on the minds of Glassport residents. Last night, some of them addressed council about potential dangers in the borough. Concerns include fireworks, bicycles and bees.
A Marie Street resident said his neighborhood was bothered by an onslaught of fireworks on the Fourth of July holiday. "Last week was the worst I've ever seen," he said. The resident asked council to require police to do extra patrols on July 4 and to enforce fireworks laws. The man said he fears someone will be injured. "Maybe it'll be an eye and next time maybe a finger," he said.
The man also told council if another problem on his street. He asked the borough to consider making Marie street one-way from Harrison Street to the 600 block to prevent accidents. The man said motorists travel too fast on the narrow street, which, with cars often parked on both sides, makes it difficult to pass. He said many children ride Bikes in the area, also preventing a safety problem. Council agreed to look into the matter.
Another resident is worried about bees, hornets and other bugs. Recently, the borough had problems with a swarm of bees. The woman told council the bugs continue to be a problem in certain locations and asked homeowners to take care of the problem.
In other business, council granted permission to Glassport Assembly of God to host a July 19 concert at the Honor Roll. Bands and solo artists will perform from 5-9 p.m.
Council announced that Citizen's Hose Co.'s annual parade is set for July 19. Main Street will be blocked off from Harrison to Seventh streets, as will Allegheny Avenue from Fifth to Seventh streets beginning, at 4 p.m.
The annual Battle of the Barrel and Family Day are set for July 20 at the station. Allegheny Avenue will be blocked off from Fifth to Sixth streets from noon to 6 p.m.
Also last night, council applied for a grant to put a fire hydrant in the area of Ohio and Michigan avenues.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette July 9, 2003
Fire company to celebrate 100 years of service
By Margaret Smykla Tri-State Sports & News Service
David Godfrey liked to sneak out of his Glassport home as a boy when sirens sounded to watch firefighters put out the fires. The scolding that followed from his late father, Russell Godfrey, captain of the volunteer Reliance Hose Co. No. 2, lost its sting as the youngster returned gloriously atop a fire truck.
Today, Godfrey, 50, is still chasing fires as chief of that same fire company, which will be celebrating its 100th anniversary Sept. 5 and 6.
A memorial service honoring deceased members will be held at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5 in front of the fire hall at Ninth Street and Monongahela Avenue.
Other planned events include an awards ceremony and corn roast. Games, food and music will be available from noon until midnight. Live entertainment, games of chance, corn roast, barbecue with burgers/chicken/chops/ribs, and a parade highlight festivities for Sept. 6.
About 100 fire companies and 40 marching units have been invited to participate in the parade, starting at 4 p.m. on Monongahela Avenue.
The borough's other fire company, Citizens Hose Co. No. 1, celebrated its 100th birthday in 2001.
Reliance was organized in 1903 by 13 founding members, according to "A Taste of Goodness," a commemorative centennial cookbook of Reliance's Ladies Auxiliary with 171 recipes and a brief history. Its slogan, "Ever on the Alert," still appears on company letterhead.
The first piece of equipment was a hose reel pulled by firefighters. By 1908, inventory had grown to include 500 feet of hose, two hose clamps, eight fire helmets, and 12 pairs of boots. Members were fined 25 cents for failing to respond to a fire.
In 1930, a fire station was built by the firefighters themselves at 720 Monongahela Ave.
In 1961, Copperweld Steel donated two lots for erection of the current building for $78,600.
In August 1963, a severe, tornado-like storm ripped through Glassport, killing two people and inflicting severe damage on property, including destroying the second floor of the new fire station.
But the most destructive fire ever to involve the company occurred Jan. 31, 1997, when one collapsed the roof of the Glassport Industrial Center. Besides injuring firefighters, the fire cost Reliance about $275,000, or three-quarters of its equipment, including an aerial truck and a pumper truck. In its aftermath, Meyersdale Volunteer Fire Co. sold Reliance its 1971 pumper truck for $1. Reliance returned it to Meyersdale this year after purchasing a 1987 pumper truck from Mt. Lebanon. The refurbished aerial truck is scheduled to be delivered to Reliance in August.
Also next month, the company expects to be granted a liquor license as a social club. Today, Reliance has about 40 active members and 10 junior members, the latter between ages 14 and 18. The absence of that program during Godfrey's youth didn't hamper his enthusiasm, and he joined when he turned 18. "I guess it got injected in me as a kid," he said.
More information about the fire company, cookbook and centennial celebration can be found at www glassportfire.org.
McKeesport Daily News July 16, 2003
Glassport
Man arrested for DUI
Police said Mark Mehalcik, 41, of Glassport, was arrested for driving under the influence and careless driving after a traffic stop Sunday.
Public drunkenness cited
Two Glassport residents were cited for public intoxication in two separate incidents.
• Josh Skiffington, 19, was cited at the Glassport pool yesterday.
• Lynn Bickerton, 41, was cited along Delaware Street Sunday.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette July 18, 2003
Leaky gas line finally gets utility's attention
Post Your Problems - Lawrence Walsh
A group of Glassport residents has a problem with Dominion Peoples.
The residents, who live in the 300 block of Marie Street, are tired of the company's repeated promises to do something about persistent leaks from a 50-year-old natural gas line under the street. The old 4-inch steel line may have more cracks than the asphalt street above it.
"That line has to be replaced," said Bill Fescemyer, 69, a retired contractor. "We've been trying to get the gas company to do that for more than three years." Fescemyer said Dominion Peoples has sent crews out every time he or his neighbors have called to complain about smelling gas. "The employees have been great," he said. "They know the line needs to be replaced, but all they can do is patch the leaks."
After a crew came out Monday to repair yet another leak, Fescemyer called me. "Something has to be done," he said. Feschemer's concerns were echoed by his wife; Louise, and their neighbors, Keith and Elena Matesig, Bob Donofrio, Sam Hodge, Wilma Purnell, Kathy Lynsky, Sally Ross and Mary DeJulius. 'Bill Fescemyer introduced me to everyone yesterday morning in front of his home at 304 Marie St. Also on hand was Terry DiMarco, a Glassport councilman who, along with state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-West Mifflin has been trying to get a new line installed.
Ken Matesig, a contractor who lives across the street from the Fescemyers, said the gas odor is so strong one time that Dominion Peoples employees checked their hone to see if gas was leaking into their basement.
Hodge, a warehouseman, said the gas odor near his home prompted Dominion Peoples to shut off his service.
"They said I had a leak," he said. "I spent $315 to dig up my yard and replace my gas line. It turned out the leak was coming from a house around the corner from mlne." Ross, whose house sits about 35 feet above Marie Street, said "she can smell gas in her screened-in front porch when the wind blows the wrong way."
"It's so strong at times it turns your stomach," Louise Fescemyer said. Bill Fescemyer said he once stopped to talk to two Dominion Peoples employees at a hole they dug in the street to patch a leak.
"The smell was so bad I don't know how those guys could stand it. They told me "Keep going, keep going, because my truck was running and they didn't want a spark to cause an explosion," he said.
Elena Matesig is afraid nothing will be done until an explosion hurts or kills someone.
"This problem should be taken very seriously and corrected immediately for the safety of all of us," she said.
Dominion Peoples spokesman Elmore Lockley confirmed the company has sent crews, "on several occasions" to repair leaks. He also said the line has been vented several times to dissipate pockets of gas under the street. Although Lockley said the leaks have posed "no immediate danger to the residents," he said the line will be replaced next week. "We'll have work crews out there on Monday morning , weather and other factors permitting,' he said. "We'll get the work done as quickly as possible and with as few service interruptions as possible.
Lockley said the company will replace about 200 feet of the old line and connect to a line it installed in 1988 in the 400 block of Marie Street.
McKeesport Daily News July 28, 2003
Glassport
Drug charges filed
Christopher Music, 19, of Port Vue, was arrested last week after a routine traffic stop, police said.
Police said Music was charged with underage drinking and drug possession. Police said officers found one large and one small bag of suspected marijuana and a sheet of suspected LSD. Music was taken to county jail for arraignment, police said.
Public intoxication noted
Two men were cited for disorderly conduct Friday, police said.
• Charles Moore IV, 22, of Glassport, also was cited for disorderly conduct, police said, after an alleged fight in Hemlock Alley.
• Ronald Richards Jr., 44, of McKeesport, was cited at Sixth Street and Hemlock Alley.
McKeesport Daily News July 29, 2003
Glassport
Police warn of citations
No dirt bikes, quads, or offroad vehicles are permitted on the Patterson property, Delaware Avenue extension, or the borough streets at any time or citations will be given by the Glassport Police Department.
Citations will be subject to a magistrate's hearing. Vehicles caught on these roadways will be cited and towed. This is the final notice that will be issued.
Also, riding bicycles on the main street or main street sidewalks is prohibited, especially in the business district where pedestrians are walking.
This is subject to a fine. The violating bicycle also may be taken by Glassport police. All bicycles are to be operated along the bike trail, which is designated by signs.
McKeesport Daily News August 2, 2003
Glassport UM has new pastor
Christopher D. Heckert has been serving Glassport United Methodist Church since July.
He graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Drew University Theological School in New Jersey. While at Drew, he served as assistant pastor of Madison UMC and was lead guitarist for Grace, a band at Riverside Church in New York. He also was senior pastor for churches at Fairmont City and New Bethlehem, Pa.
At Drew University, Heckert received the Jasper an Ann Steel award as divinity scholar for ministry in a multi-cultural setting. The award was the result of his initiating a weekly worship service for the community. Various ethnic groups participated, scriptures read in multiple languages and music styles were varied.
His interest in multicultural religious experience resulted in a trip to southern India last year. He also took part in a research study of a rural Appalachian religious community in Morristown, Tenn.
The Kittanning native is pursuing a masters of communications at Duquesne University.
His wife Kimberly is a doctor at Mercy Hospital.
McKeesport Daily News August 5, 2003
Glassport Lions plan board meeting, announce officers
Glassport Lions Club board of directors will gather tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. in the Sons of Italy Lodge 941, Glassport. Co-hosts will be Tony Spagnolo and Rich Antoncic.
Newly elected officers and directors are being announced.
Assuming duties are John McCombs, president; Joe Spagnolo, first vice president; Antoncic, second vice President; Linda Rendulic, third vice president; Elmer Kruzek, recording secretary; Carol Schmotzer, treasurer; aid Tony DeJulius, financial secretary. Tail twister will be Linda Aquilante and lion tamer is Tony Babral. In charge of membership are Kruzek, Tony Campano and Carl Zupi.
Serving as one year directors are Jim Jones, John Palmiero, Bill Kiser, Nancy West, Tom Urbanski, Scott Finney, Carol Pasinski, Pennie McGhen, Ted Street and Bob Stefanic.
Taking the role of two year directors are Nancy Coleman, Steve Posa, Jim Morningstar, Ed Wojciechowski, Rich Ziemianski, Rendulic, Ron Tyszkiewicz and Ed Burnett. Permanent directors are John Hester and De Julius.
Retired from General Motors Corp., the new president is a two-year member of the Lions Club and member of West Side United Methodist Church in McKeesport. He participated in the Relay For Life Cancer Walk in McKeesport and is married with two children and two grandchildren.
McKeesport Daily News August 5, 2003
Glassport
Public intoxication cited
Three people were cited with public intoxication Sunday.
• Police said Robert Williams, 26, of Clairton, was cited after he was causing a danger to himself in the area of Sixth Street and Allegheny Avenue.
• Police said Shelley Snyir, 32, of Glassport, was cited in the area of Sixth Street and Monogahela Avenue.
• Police said Gena Stearns, 26, of Clairton, was cited in the area of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue. Stearns also was cited for disorderly conduct for a disturbance, police said.
Harassment cited
Police said Robert Zuzak, 30, of Glassport, was cited for harassment after reportedly hitting a woman in the face Sunday.
Driving charge filed
Police said Lynn Julian, 43, of Glassport, was charged with driving under suspension yesterday.
McKeesport Daily News August 5, 2003
Glassport
Residents advised
Residents are advised that there is to be no swimming in the area of the Glassport boat docks. The area is designated a no swimming area because it has a very strong undertow. Also, there should be no playing on the boat docks. The area is only for people who have their boats docked there and have paid a fee for the season.
Those who are caught swimming or jumping off the docks or hanging around the docks will be fined by the magistrate and cited by the police department, borough officials said.
No loitering allowed
Mayor Thomas Urbanski and Councilman Terry DeMarco are reminding residents that there is to be no loitering in front of business establishments.
Also, no one is to write profanity on or destroy bus shelters.
Police will be issuing citations to people found loitering. Parents of loitering children will have to pick up their children at the police station and pay a fine, borough officials said. Anyone caught damaging borough properties will be heavily cited and fined, borough officials said.
McKeesport Daily News August 6, 2003
Glassport stresses safety issues
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport officials are getting serious about safety in the borough.
Recently, the borough has had some trouble with youths creating a concern for the welfare of themselves and other residents. Police Chief Howard Kifer said the police force is going to be on the lookout for people violating safety rules and regulations.
For example, a youth on a bicycle recently struck an older woman walking on a sidewalk in Glassport. Kifer said incidents like this should not occur. Riding bicycles, skateboards or skating on borough sidewalks is illegal. "It's a safety factor and that's why we're eliminating that," he explained.
Another problem, the chief said, is people riding off-road vehicles on main streets, often ignoring stop signs and traffic lights. Kifer said that not long ago a youth was injured when he rode his quad through a stop sign on Cyprus Alley and was hit by a car. Kifer explained off-road vehicles are not permitted on borough streets for reasons like these.
The borough also is having trouble with people riding off-road vehicles on the private Patterson property, the old dump.
Another concern is loiterers.
Kifer said some Glassporters have told police they are afraid to enter borough businesses when large groups of youths are standing outside. But it isn't just the standing that's causing the problem, the chief explained. Many of the teens reportedly are leaving behind trash, spitting snuff on benches and writing graffiti on bus shelters or in parks. "They're destroying stuff and causing a nuisance," Kifer explained.
Residents also are warned to stop swimming in the area of the boat docks. Officials said there is a very strong undertow in the area. Violating any of these rules is punishable by, a fine or a trip to the magistrate, Kifer said. "It's an all-out campaign for the safety of the kids and residents," the chief explained. "We don't want to see people get. hurt."
McKeesport Daily News August 6, 2003
Glassport
Conduct is cited
Police cited two men with disorderly conduct after the men reportedly got into a fight Monday at Eighth Street and Ohio Avenue.
Police said the men are Justin Barna, 18, of Glassport, and Christopher Muic, 19, of Port Vue.
McKeesport Daily News August 9, 2003
Glassport
Misconduct cited
Three people were cited with disorderly conduct in two separate incidents.
• Police said Kevin Cabieu, 35, of Glassport, was cited for causing a disturbance.
• Police said Gail Velmer, 40, of Finleyville, was cited after officers found suspected drug paraphernalia in her possession. Velmer also was arrested on a county bench warrant.
• Police said Mary May, 50, of Clairton, was cited for possessing drug paraphernalia.
Public intoxication noted
Police said James Hawkins, 21, of Glassport, was cited for public intoxication Sunday at Third and Oak streets.
Two teens arrested
Two teens were arrested for consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages by those under 21, police said.
• Police said Tyler Tudek, 18, of Glassport, was arrested Wednesday at 12:30 a.m.
• Police said Henry Campbell, 18, of McKeesport, was arrested Wednesday at 2:22 a.m.
McKeesport Daily News August 13, 2003
Glassport council appoints TerryDiMarco new president
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbntbaker@dallynewsemail.com
Glassport council has a new president. Robert Stefanic resigned his position as president at last night's council meeting. Stefanic said that because he did not run for re-election, he wanted to give a new president time to adjust to the role.
Council appointed Terry DiMarco to the position in a 4-2 vote. Councilmen John D'Angelo and Jim Morningstar voted no. Councilman Ed Mihoces was not present.
Morningstar said he felt that someone with more seniority on council should take over as president, such as D'Angelo. Stefanic said he didn't think there was anyone more dedicated to the borough than DiMarco. Council Vice President James Uziel said he did not want to become president and instead nominated DiMarco.
In other business, council addressed the growing concern over dilapidated buildings and overgrown lots. Several properties were added to a borough demolition list that will be completed providing the borough receives a Community Development Block Grant. These properties are 530 Ohio Ave., 406 Erie Ave., 608 Maryland Ave., 615 Michigan Ave., 437 Erie Ave., 520-530 Broadway Ave., and 638-638 1/2 and 640 Ohio Ave.
Residents expressed concerns with these and other borough properties. One woman said an abandoned house next to hers attracts rats, snakes and other pests. The woman said she feels the health and safety of her family is threatened by the abandoned house. "I'm not going to take it anymore," the woman explained. "I pay my taxes, I keep my home clean, I have kids."
Council agreed to talk to the owner of the property again. Council members said a solution may be in the works for residents with an overgrown lot next to theirs. The borough is trying to get approval on a program to allow residents to purchase overgrown abandoned lots adjacent to their properties. Residents who know of such properties and are interested in the program are asked to contact the borough at 412-672-7400.
Also last night, D'Angelo announced that a county health department inspection of the Glassport Sewage Plant found no problems. D'Angelo said he was extremely pleased with the inspection results.
McKeesport Daily News August 13, 2003
Community assists Glassport native
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport native in dire need of a kidney transplant "will get some help from friends, family and merchants in the community.
George Beregi Jr. will fly Friday from his home in Destin, Fla., - where he's lived for almost the past two decades - for a benefit at the Boston Spectrum in Elizabeth Twp. It is slated for Sunday from 2 to 7 p.m. and proceeds will go to his cause.
The benefit - which costs in advance and $10 at the door -- will include a car cruise and dinner featuring spaghetti and gnocchi.
Those attending will choose the best car, and the owner of the vehicle will be awarded a trophy, supplied by Vangura Tool in Clairton.
Entertainment will include Rich Antoncic, who often plays at the Viking Lounge in McKeesport. A Chinese auction also will take place.
Marlin McCracken, Beregi's sister, who resides in Liberty, came up with the idea for a benefit after she last visited her brother for his 59th birthday with her husband Richard. With tears in her eyes, she recalled the visit and all the stress it appeared her brother was under. "He said people kept hounding him for money for little medical and ambulance bills," McCracken says.
She says her brother has been in and out of hospitals, with chest infections as recently as this week - which drive up his medical bills. McCracken says both his kidneys failed a year ago, and he also suffers from high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. He's currently has dialysis three times a week for the condition.
"He needs a donor," she stresses. Also, McCracken says her brother's blood type is O positive, which is very rare. At first, they were going to surprise Beregi and fly him up for his birthday for a surprise party, but they made the decision to have a benefit for him with friends and family. "He was a well-known man in the community," McCracken says.
Generosity and volunteerism has been very present in this effort, as friends, family and local merchants have donated gifts to be raffled off at the event. McCracken says her sister Pam Ring helped with the cooking by making two roasters of gnocchi.
Beregi has had financial problems since his kidneys failed because the medical condition has caused him to stop working, and his Social Security checks barely cover his medical bills. What's worse is after the transplant, he will be subject to anti-rejection drugs that are very expensive and not covered by insurance, she adds.
Before he became unemployed, McCracken says her brother painted designs on surfboards. McCracken says Beregi who would do anything for anyone. "If he knew you, you were treated first class," she says. "We need to do this for George. He always has opened his heart to help anybody."
When Beregi found out about the benefit, McCracken says he was surprised. "Marlin, you overwhelm; me," she quoted him. If Beregi's finances get out of hand in the future, he does have somewhere to go. McCracken says she and her husband invited her brother to come live with them in their Orchard Drive home. "He has that peace of mind because he knows he has somewhere to go if he needs it," she adds.
But McCracken doesn't blame her brother for wanting to stay in Florida, after experiencing winters in Southwestern Pennsylvania. "We went to visit him in February and we were able to wear T-shirts and shorts," she explains.
McKeesport Daily News August 25, 2003
Glassport cops make drug bust
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
What started as a routine ambulance call turned into a drug bust for Glassport police.
Yesterday morning, police and medics were dispatched to 1047 Indiana Ave. for a report of an unresponsive male who had possibly overdosed.
When Glassport Officer Shawn Deverse and Port Vue Officer Bryan Myers arrived at the scene, they saw a 27year-old man who reportedly was turning blue.
Paramedics took Dwight Faite to a nearby hospital, police said. Deverse said he and Myers found suspected drug paraphernalia and a bottle of Inositol, an over-the-counter powder often used to cut cocaine, on a table next to Faite.
Faite's girlfriend, Christina Martin, reportedly told police Faite was snorting cocaine before he became unconscious. Officers returned with a search warrant for the home and officers from Lincoln, including Officer Scott Farally, secured the area.
Deverse said they uncovered at least $1,000 in suspected powdered cocaine, three dried suspected marijuana plants, a bottle of suspected Oxycontin pills, and various suspected drug paraphernalia items. Officers also found a sealed off cultivating room with growing aids and lamps. A sawed-off shotgun also was found at the residence.
Faite and Martin, 24, both are charged with two counts each of manufacturing, delivering and possessing with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia and possession of a small amount of marijuana, as well as one count of criminal conspiracy.
Faite later checked himself out of the intensive care unit against doctor's wishes, reports stated, and was arrested shortly thereafter. He was arraigned yesterday before Glassport District Justice Edward Burnett and is being held at Allegheny County Jail on $25,000 straight bond.
Martin was to be arraigned this morning before Burnett, police said.
Glassport Police Chief Howard Kifer said the investigation was impressive. "This was a great job and followup from Officer Deverse," Kifer said. "He had a keen eye and noticed the evidence. This is a good drug arrest with good backup from the local departments."
McKeesport Daily News August 27, 2003
Glassport Police report chase
Police said officers arrested a Pittsburgh man after a chase throughout the borough.
Early yesterday morning, police said officers attempted to pull over Ryan Hansen, 22, for speeding in the area of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue. Hansen reportedly began to pull over, ran up on the sidewalk and then kept going.
Police said officers continued to pursue Hansen for several blocks. Eventually, officers were able to block Hansen in after he reportedly lost control of his vehicle on a turn. Hansen's vehicle reportedly came close to a resident's porch but did not hit it. It did, however, do slight damage to a police car, police said.
Hansen reportedly abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot. Officers continued to pursue until Hansen was located in the area of the Ninth Street ballfield.
He was charged with driving under the influence, fleeing or attempting to elude officers and seven traffic violations.
Public intoxication cited
Police said Cecila Kish, 47, of Glassport, was cited after being found intoxicated in the 700 block of Michigan Avenue last night.
McKeesport Daily News August 27, 2003
For Glassport Man
Lack of court stenographer delays bank heist hearing
By NATALIE NEYSA ALUND Daily News Staff Writer nalund @dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport man charged with six robberies in the Mon Valley will wait another week for one of his preliminary hearings.
Last week, McKeesport District Justice Thomas Brletic bound 39-year-old Ronald Townsend over for court regarding three separate bank robberies in McKeesport.
Earlier this summer Townsend, of Monongahela Boulevard, was charged with robbing McKeesport's PNC Bank, Great American Federal Savings and Loan, and City Consumer Discount Loan Co.
In Clairton, the defendant faces charges of robbery, theft by unlawful taking and terroristic threats regarding a July 16 incident at National City Bank along Miller Avenue. Yesterday, Clairton District Justice Armand Martin agreed to a postponement suggested by a public defender because a court reporter was not available.
According to an affidavit of probable cause, a teller at the bank told police a dark-skinned black man who weighed approximately 170 pounds entered the bank, wearing white pants, a pinstriped long-sleeve shirt, a baby blue fishing hat and sunglasses. The teller said the man approached her and handed her a note demanding money. After the woman handed him more than $3,000, the suspect reportedly placed the money in his pocket and walked out the front door.
During another preliminary hearing last week in McKeesport, a 40-year-old woman testified Townsend admitted he committed the McKeesport bank robberies.
In addition, a PNC bank teller testified that on July 3, an unidentified man entered the bank along Lysle Boulevard, threatened to kill her and took off with almost $4,000.
Also, a City Finance co-owner testified that on June 9, Townsend allegedly stabbed a female employee during an attempted heist at the financial loan service, located along Sixth Avenue.
At Great American Federal along Fifth Avenue in McKeesport June 19, Townsend reportedly passed a female teller a note demanding money, took the cash and fled on foot.
Townsend also faces two additional preliminary hearings in West Mifflin tomorrow morning before District Justice Richard Olasz. He remains incarcerated at Allegheny County Jail on $25,000 bond.
McKeesport Daily News August 28, 2003
Reliance Hose marks 100 years
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport's Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 has been fighting fires for 100 years. The volunteer fire department, one of two in the borough, is getting ready to celebrate its centennial with a variety of events next week.
Firefighters said the company has survived a lot of difficult situations and managed to come back even stronger.
Reliance Hose started out in what is now an apartment complex along Monongahela Avenue in the early 1900s. The company then moved to the 700 block of Monongahela Avenue and then to its current Ninth Street and Monongahela Avenue address, where it has been for more than 40 years.
In 1963 a tornado passed through the small borough, ripping the roof off the newly organized fire hall. Firefighter Jim Ali said the fire company worked hard to get the roof back on the building as quickly as possible.
Ali said although not everything has changed about being a firefighter over the years, some things are different. "The price of equipment has really gone up," Ali said. "And technology really helps us."
The company got to put its technology to the test about five years ago when a dangerous chemical fire broke out at TechMet. Reliance and 11 other companies worked tirelessly battling the industrial fire. Although only one firefighter sustained minor injuries, the fire company suffered a big loss. The chemicals from the fire ruined Reliance's hoses, equipment and even put a new fire truck out of commission. Firefighter Shawn Deverse said, thankfully, the company bounced back. "It almost put us out of business," Deverse explained. Luckily for Reliance, other local departments chipped in, donating equipment and hoses to get the struggling company up and running again. A fire company from Meyersdale even donated an extra fire truck to Reliance, Deverse said. Thanks to the kindness of the other departments, Deverse said Reliance was able to get back to fighting fires and is now able to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
"It's a special occasion. One hundred years in existence and providing service to Glassport," Deverse explained. "We're proud of it." The celebration begins Sept. 5. A parade will begin at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 6. Following the parade, the celebration will continue at the fire hall with the annual corn roast and entertainment.
A commemorative ceremony is set for Sept. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the fire hall. The ceremony will honor all who have served and assisted the company over the past century.
McKeesport Daily News August 29, 2003
Glassport Borough thanks COG
Glassport would like to thank Twin Rivers Council of Governments for obtaining a grant from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts for the cultural entertainment to be provided by Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 for its upcoming centennial festivities.
The borough also would like to thank John Palyo, of Twin Rivers COG, who coordinated the processing of the grant for this event.
McKeesport Daily News August 29, 2003
Glassport Rosary Society to gather
Rosary Society of Queen of the Rosary Parish in Glassport will open the year Tuesday.
Mass will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. by the Rev. Casimir Kedzierski.
The business session will follow in the social hall with Jean Kudla presiding. The fall agenda will be discussed.
Group III will serve as hostesses in charge of Helen Poljak and Josephine Sitko. A games party will follow.
McKeesport Daily News September 3, 2003
Glassport
DUI arrest made
Jonnie Washington, 51, of Clairton, was arrested for driving under the influence, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension Aug. 13 in the area of Lincoln Street and N. Monongahela Avenue, police said.
Identity theft logged
Police said Dawn McPherson, 26, no address listed, was charged with identity theft after she tried to use someone else's Social Security number at a local drugstore.
McKeesport Daily News September 10, 2003
Glassport discusses catch basins
By DAVID WHIPKEY Daily News Staff Writer dwhipkey@dailynewsemail.com
Repairs to catch basins and grants from Twin Rivers Council of Governments were the order of the day at Glassport's council meeting.
President of Twin Rivers COG and chairman of Glassport's sewage department John D'Angelo said it is imperative for all of the catch basins within the borough to be cleaned. "We have not been able to get those cleaned out yet this year," D'Angelo said during last night's council meeting. "They have been neglected all year. The DEP needs to get the equipment here to do what is necessary." D'Angelo said the borough's sewage department does not have the manpower to clean out the catch basins. It is the street department's responsibility to utilize the equipment needed for the job. "I only have three people working at the sewage department as it is," D'Angelo said. "This job needs to be done in the near future."
Glassport also has received significant grant money from Twin Rivers COG for improvements to homes, buildings and other physical entities within the borough. According to D'Angelo, Glassport has received more than $38,000, the most of any community served by Twin Rivers COG. "It's (grant money) based on need and income," D'Angelo said. "The money is used to fix sidewalks, repair aluminum siding on homes, handicap ramps and painting."
D'Angelo urged the board to apply for more grant money. "We have nothing to lose so we should apply for anything we can," D'Angelo said. "We also have issues with erosion of the roads that will lead into the river. We are eligible for money for working on that."
Glassport Mayor Thomas Urbanski also told council of an issue with an abandoned dwelling along the 500 block of Monongahela Avenue. "I spoke with a person whose basement keeps filling with water after a storm," Urbanski said. "We went there and noticed a building next door that was abandoned and 6 feet of water in the basement. That is where the water was coming from." According to Urbanski, the abandoned dwelling needs to be demolished. "The roof has collapsed," Urbanski said. "We can't get in there and pump out the water, it's too dangerous. Plus the building behind that has 20-30 cats inside. It's a definite problem. We need to take over and demolish it., Urbanski added. Money from an additional agencies such as Twin Rivers COG or from Allegheny County may be needed for the project.
McKeesport Daily News September 13, 2003
Glassport supply business caught in corporate bankruptcy liquidation
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Forty-three area residents lost their jobs as U.S. Flow entered into bankruptcy. The national pipe, valve and fittings company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August. Tuesday, the company filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy for the liquidation of its four branch companies, including Plotkin Bros. of Glassport.
The closing of U.S. Flow caused the loss of approximately 650 jobs nationwide. Three other branch companies were located in Michigan, Ohio and Georgia.
Bill Persuitte, a regional vice president for Plotkin Bros., said efforts were made locally to buy back the Glassport business from the national company. However, Persuitte said efforts were denied as unsecured creditors entered a motion to stop the sale, and officials decided that liquidation was the answer. Persuitte said he and other local officers in Plotkin Bros. did not agree and wanted to buy back the company to save jobs.
Persuitte said the three other companies also made attempts to buy back their local branch. These attempts reportedly also were denied. Persuitte said it was sad to see a viable company like Plotkins close its doors.
Locally, Persuitte said they got word to let the employees go last week. Although there were signs that this could be coming, Persuitte said it still was devastating to the Glassport business.
Plotkin Bros. opened in the 1920s and formerly was located in Clairton. The company moved to Glassport about 20 years ago. It was acquired by the holding company U.S. Flow in 2000.
Last year, Plotkin Bros. reportedly was slimmed down from 75 to 43 employees by U.S. Flow.
Glassport Mayor Tom Urbanski said he is upset by the loss of jobs. "It's a good company, and it bothers me that it's going down," Urbanski explained. "Anything I can do to help them keep those jobs here, I'll do."
McKeesport Daily News September 16, 2003
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Police said Kathy Gretz, 39, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct last week after police found her acting disorderly in the 200 block of Monongahela Avenue. Police said Gretz had drug paraphernalia in her possession.
McKeesport Daily News September 30, 2003
Glassport
Misconduct cited
Police said two people were cited for disorderly conduct Saturday.
• Michael Gothie, 40, of Glassport, reportedly was cited for staying in the area of a fight after being told by police to leave.
• Linda Lee Baker, 30, of West Mifflin, was cited for fighting and being highly intoxicated, police said. She also was cited for public intoxication.
Public intoxication noted
Two people were cited for public intoxication over the weekend.
• Police said Bernadette Stickles, 23, of Glassport, was cited after causing a disturbance.
• Police said John Rager, 25, of Glassport, was cited for causing a danger to himself.
McKeesport Daily News October 6, 2003
Glassport
Library change noted
Glassport Library will not be open on Wednesdays until further notice.
Volunteers reminded.
The following people should report for their volunteer shift at Glassport Library on their scheduled day: tomorrow, Bernice Palmiero and Betty Charney; Thursday, Jane Drogoski and Isabelle Bishop; Oct. 14, Dorothy Rizzo and Leslie Morrow; and Oct. 16, Betty Gaydos and Dena Chottiner.
McKeesport Daily News October 7, 2003
Glassport
Man charged with theft
Police said Hugh Jones, no age listed, of Glassport, was charged with theft by deception over the weekend after police said he took materials from a residence along Peach Way.
Harassment logged
Police said Roy Steele, 38, of Glassport, was cited for harassment after a fight Sunday.
Disorderlies cited
Several people were cited for disorderly conduct over the weekend.
• Police said Ellen Lewis, no age listed, of Glassport was cited for playing music too loud and upsetting the neighborhood Saturday.
• Brandon Zalac, 20, of Glassport, was cited for causing a disturbance Saturday, police said.
• Christine Ingram, 28, of McKeesport, reportedly was cited for causing a disturbance Friday.
• Anna Snyder, 18, of Glassport, reportedly was cited for causing a public annoyance Sunday.
• Police said Kathleen Bryer, 49, of Glassport, was cited for causing a disturbance during an argument Sunday.
• Police said Rick Ingram, 27. of Glassport. was cited for causing a disturbance Sunday.
• Anthony Irwin, 22, of McKeesport, reportedly was cited for running between houses while intoxicated Saturday.
• Josh Mattingley, 18, Tyler Tudek, 19, and John Foster, 19, all of Glassport, and Daniel Martinjak, 18, of McKeesport, were cited for causing a disturbance Saturday, police said.
McKeesport Daily News October 14, 2003
Clairton EMS opens new Glassport station
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport residents can take advantage of a new and improved ambulance station.
Clairton Volunteer Fire Department's EMS Division has opened a new location for its Glassport station. The station is located at Monongahela Avenue and Seventh Street, right in the midle of town and in plain view of those passing by.
Clairton Fire Chief and Coordinator John Lattanzi said the station spent four years off the main street behind Glassport's Citizens Hose station and outgrew the location. Now in the center of town, the Glassport station is trying to get more community oriented. Lattanzi said the location will host regular :blood pressure checks and flu shot clinics.
The first flu shot clinic is scheduled for Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a nominal fee. Residents can come in for a blood pressure check anytime from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily when someone is at the station.
EMS Director Robert Ferry said he hopes residents will notice the change. "This will cut down on response time and residents can walk in from the street and get their blood pressure checked," Ferry explained.
Paramedic Kathy Roadman agreed. "It's a big improvement," Roadman said. "It has better accommodations for the employees and it's more amicable for the public."
The station will remain open as usual from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 24 hours a day Friday and Saturday.
Thirty-two employees work at the station, which has two ambulances.
State Sen. Sean Logan, D-Monroeville, said he admired the partnership between the two communities. "It's fantastic." Logan explained. "The new building improves response time to the citizens and provides a needed service." Clairton City Manager Ralph Imbrogno agreed. "It's nice to say that Clairton can help a sister community with a contracted service." Imbrogno said.
Clairton Mayor Dominic Serapiglia said he hopes Clairton's EMS can continue to expand. "Hopefully in the future, they can take on more communities because they do a very good job," Serapiglia said.
McKeesport Daily News October 14, 2003
Pork cutlet dinner planned Saturday
Glassport United Methodist Church, 501 Ohio Avenue, will host a breaded pork cutlet dinner Saturday from 2 to p.m. Tickets at $6 per adult and $4 per child ages 12 and younger may be reserved by calling Vina March at 412678-8312. No tickets will be sold at the door.
Glassport Women arrange meeting
October meeting of the Glassport Women's Club will 'be Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Glassport Library. Donna Kurucz will preside and serve as a hostess along with Betty Gaydos and Lois Sechrist. A social will follow.
McKeesport Daily News October 15, 2003
Glassport Police Auxiliary, leader honored
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport officials thanked a local organization and its leader, Robert Yeager Sr. and the Glassport Police Auxiliary received special awards from the borough and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency at last night's council meeting.
Yeager has been a member of the auxiliary for more than 30 years, assisting at many community events. Mayor Tom Urbanski thanked the auxiliary and Yeager. "They've done so much service for us and our community," Urbanski explained. "All the residents in Glassport have always appreciated your assistance," Urbanski told Yeager. "We've always depended on you."
Yeager said the biggest perk of the auxiliary is working with Glassport residents. In other business last night, council discussed a problem with pets in the borough. A resident of Vermont Avenue told council she continues to have a problem with her neighbors' handling of their three large dogs. The resident said the dogs are allowed to go to the bathroom in the neighbors` yard and on the resident's fence. The mess is not cleaned up, the resident said, and creates a health hazard as flies accumulate and a stench arises.
"When the flies were so bad it looked like an Edgar Allen Poe film in my back yard, I didn't yell at my neighbor." the woman said. "I hired an exterminator at my own expense. It didn't do the trick." The woman said the residents have been cited several times, although the problem hasn't stopped.
Council discussed options such as changing the pet ordinance from five pets per home to a policy based on the square footage of the house. They opted, however, to strictly enforce the current laws. "I think that rather than change the law, we need to enforce the nuisance ordinance," Councilman John D'Angelo explained. "I know people who have two or three dogs and they have no problems because they take care of them."
Residents with similar problems are asked to contact police at 412-672-4514.
Council passed the first and second readings of an ordinance forbidding dogs from running at large in the borough.
Also last night, council discussed some police guns that were sold. When several police chiefs retired, the guns were left unused. Reportedly, council decided to get rid of the guns. However, how they planned to get rid of them was debated last night. Some councilors said they thought they had decided to donate the guns to the chiefs who used them, others thought they were to get the guns appraised and sell them, putting the money back into the borough's funds.
D'Angelo said he was upset the process wasn't brought before council before the guns were sold. Urbanski said he wanted to sell the guns to get money to put toward the purchase of a new computer system for the police department. Council agreed to check the minutes from previous meetings to see if' any votes had been taken regarding the issue. They then will decide what to do with the remaining couple of guns.
In other business, council thanked council Chairman Terry DiMarco for his work in obtaining a grant for a fire hydrant to be installed at Ninth Street and Michigan Avenue courtesy of Pennsylvania-American Water Co. Council also approved the application for emergency demolition funds from Twin Rivers Council of Governments for the demolition of a building at 512 Monongahela Ave. The site reportedly is a public nuisance.
McKeesport Daily News October 16, 2003
Glassport announces developer's plans
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport may be getting a new restaurant, gas station, and a few dozen jobs.
Mayor Tom Urbanski said the borough is in talks with a developer who intends to build a. McDonald's restaurant and an Exxon gas station and convenience store. The development would be built in the area of Ninth Street and Ohio Avenue.
Urbanski said the developer told him the properties could be acquired by the end of the year. Then, the plans would go before zoning and planning commissions and council for approval.
Urbanski said the new businesses would bring approximately 35 jobs to the area. Currently, the borough reportedly has only one gas station in the area of Third Street, across town from the expected development. Glassport has no fast food chain restaurants. The nearest McDonald's restaurants are located in Versailles and West Mifflin.
Urbanski said he hopes the new businesses will improve the borough. "It'll be great for our community. The swimming pool is right there and a lot of people travel through our community," Urbanski explained. "It will be nice when people come to watch a football game for them to be able to stop and get a hamburger," he added. "It'll be another boost to our community."
Urbanski stressed the plans are in the development stage and have not yet been finalized or approved by the borough. He said more updates on the developments will be released as the plans move along.
McDonald's has more than 30,000 locations in 119 countries worldwide. The first restaurant of the chain was opened in 1948 by Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernadino, Calif.
McKeesport Daily News October 22, 2003
Couple charged for living in condemned building
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer
A Glassport couple was arrested after police reportedly discovered they were living in a condemned apartment building.
Police said the couple was supposed to be remodeling the building, not living there with two children.
Borough police said David Hornfeck Sr., 40, and Karen Evancak, 38, were charged with two counts each of recklessly endangering another person and endangering the welfare of children after the discovery along the 600 block of Monongahela Avenue.
Evancak also was charged with hindering apprehension.
McKeesport Daily News October 24, 2003
QA prepares special ed students for PSSA tests
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
In response to progress reports in connection with the No Child Left Behind Act, South Allegheny School District is participating in training that aids special education students as they prepare for standardized tests.
At last night's school board meeting, school Director Dino DiFelice commented on the training program and how it helps these students.
Progress of students is monitored on a weekly basis so instructors can keep a close eye on how they are coming along - ensuring they will be ready once it's time to take the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment test. That test is the basis for the school district to report students' progress to see if SA is in compliance with NCLB.
The program monitoring is through Pennsylvania Department of Education's special education bureau, said school psychologist Glenn Shell. South Allegheny is one of 100 districts in the state participating in this training, titled Read Naturally, Shell added. There hasn't been a significant cost to the school district, he said, but SA did have to purchase equipment to be used for training at cost of more than $1,000. Shell said this is the state's response to NCLB's adequate yearly progress report. He said the special education students' achieving at lower levels than other students previously was not taken into account.
The training helps students develop proficiency in reading, writing and math - the subjects students are required to show proficiency in for the PSSA tests to comply, with NCLB. SA has been using the training. since the beginning of this school year, and the district will make a presentation to update progress with the training, which is for students in kindergarten through high school.
McKeesport Daily News October 24, 2003
School director jailed for hitting SA police chief
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
A South Allegheny school director was jailed after she allegedly struck the school district police chief - who earlier had arrested her husband - with her vehicle.
All classes were canceled today in the wake of last night's incident involving School Director Terry Dozzi.
Police claim the school board member struck South Allegheny Police Chief Kristopher Kircher with her car and fled the scene. She later was arrested at her Port Vue home and is awaiting arraignment on charges of aggravated assault of a police officer and reckless driving, Allegheny County police said.
South Allegheny Superintendent Patrick Risha said district officials are pulling for Kircher's complete recovery. He said the school district is "taking the steps necessary to ensure a safe and healthy educational climate for all students."
Kircher reportedly was transported to UPMC Presbyterian, but his condition wasn't available as of press time.
Eugene Dozzi, the school director's husband, was arraigned on charges of reckless endangerment, corruption of minors and furnishing cigarettes to minors after students told police that he incited food fights, and also gave the youngsters cigarettes when they visited his home.
According to an affidavit of probable cause, Eugene Dozzi provided students with information to engage in institutional vandalism by starting a food fight in the middle/high school cafeteria.
Terry Dozzi reportedly learned of her husband's arraignment during last night's school board meeting and promptly drove to District Justice Edward Burnett's Glassport office.
Burnett, who said he witnessed the incident, said Kircher contacted him around 7:30 p.m. and asked him to preside over an arraignment. When the magistrate arrived at his office, he said the chief was there with Eugene Dozzi, who was in custody in the school police cruiser. Shortly after, Terry Dozzi arrived at the office and parked behind Burnett's car, the magistrate said. "She started on the chief," he said. "She kept saying everything was all political and that she was going to get (Kircher) fired."
Burnett said he suggested Kircher call Glassport police for assistance. Police were called and Burnett said Terry Dozzi got back in her car, started the ignition and struck the chief as he was walking across the street. "The chief was on the ground holding his leg in excruciating pain and she fled, the scene," he said.
The magistrate said he called 911, and Glassport, Port Vue and South Allegheny police responded to the scene.
Burnett said Allegheny County police will handle the case because he's a witness to the alleged incident and can't adjudicate it.
Eugene Dozzi was remanded to Allegheny County Jail on $100,000 straight cash bond. The school director's husband claims he and his wife are the victims of a political vendetta. He alleged that authorities have targeted his family since Terry Dozzi was elected to the school board two years ago. "I spoke up for the kids. I spoke up for the parents. I questioned everything that goes on in the district," Eugene Dozzi said. "They're dragging me and my wife to jail for nothing."
McKeesport Daily News October 24, 2003
Glassport
Assistance available
Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 reminds residents that as they turn clocks back this weekend they also should change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Any person who needs assistance changing the batteries should contact Reliance and a firefighter will help. For more information call the station at 412-672-1005 or Assistant Chief Rick Vazquez at 412-896-1925.
McKeesport Daily News October 29, 2003
Dozzi's hearing, 3 others delayed
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Several high profile Glassport area cases have made their way to court.
Some of the cases were waived and others postponed yesterday before District Justice Edward Burnett of Glassport.
Glassport resident Eugene Dozzi now will face a preliminary hearing Nov. 18 on charges of reckless endangerment, corruption of minors and furnishing cigarettes to minors. Dozzi, husband of South Allegheny School Director Terry Dozzi, was charged after students reportedly told police he incited food fights and gave the youth cigarettes when they visited his home.
Terry Dozzi faces an upcoming preliminary hearing before District Justice Thomas Brletic of McKeesport on charges of aggravated assault of a police officer and reckless driving. Terry Dozzi allegedly hit SA Police Chief Kristopher Kircher with her car and fled the scene after she found out her husband was to be arraigned. Kircher reportedly still is recovering from his injuries. Burnett, who reportedly witnessed the incident, said when Terry Dozzi got to the scene just before her husband's arraignment, she started telling Kircher everything was political and she was going to get him fired. Burnett said he suggested Kircher call Glassport police for assistance just before Terry Dozzi got back in her car, started it up and struck Kircher as he crossed the street in front of the magistrate's office.
In another case yesterday, Kevin Scott Cadieu, 35, and Tricia Cadieu, 33, waived their case to court. The couple is accused of providing vodka to school children. They are charged with recklessly endangering another person, criminal conspiracy, corruption of minors, selling or furnishing alcohol to minors and furnishing cigarettes or cigarette papers to minors. Kevin Cadieu was released on his own recognizance. Tricia Cadieu reportedly will be released once a house arrest system can be set up for a probation violation from another case.
According to a South Allegheny School Police affidavit, police received an anonymous call on Oct. 10 that three SA students were skipping school and were spotted on the porch of a house along Ohio Avenue. Officers reportedly located the children at the home of the Cadieus. According to the affidavit, the Cadieus gave the juveniles alcohol and tobacco on other occasions. Also, police said the Cadieus allowed the children to stay at their house during school hours. Reportedly, Kevin Cadieu later apologized to police for giving the youth alcohol, drugs and tobacco and for allowing them to stay at his house during school hours.
Another Glassport couple also faced charges yesterday before Burnett. David Hornfeck Sr., 40, and Karen Evancak, 38, are accused of living in a condemned apartment building with two children. Both are charged with two counts of recklessly endangering another person and two counts of endangering the welfare of children. Reportedly, the couple was supposed to be remodeling the building, located at 623 Monongahela Ave, not living in it.
District Justice Edward Burnett of Glassport granted a 90-day continuance to allow the couple to obtain drug and alcohol evaluations and take parenting classes. Evancak also was charged with hindering apprehension.
Officers reportedly discovered the condition of the home when they went to the location last week to serve a warrant on Hornfeck for another incident. Evancak reportedly told officers Hornfeck wasn't there. When she granted officers permission to look around the building, police said they found Hornfeck hiding inside. They also reportedly discovered the couple and Evanchak's children were living in the building, which police described to be in deplorable condition. Reportedly, the couple had purchased the building and were supposed to be remodeling it. They did not have an occupancy permit to live in the building.
Police said they had no idea how bad the condition of the building was until they stepped inside. Then, they reportedly found live wires protruding from the walls and large holes in the ceiling between floors, among other violations. Police said the couple's wood burner was held together with duct tape and their furnace was rusted shut and full of cobwebs - both creating a potential for fire.
The hearing of a Clairton woman accused of embezzling approximately $30,000 from her employer also was continued yesterday. Nadine Corigliano, 37, is accused of writing more than 50 phony checks on her employer's account. The hearing was continued for another 30 days. Corigliano reportedly worked as a secretary and bookkeeper at Finney Funeral Home in Clairton.
McKeesport Daily News November 3, 2003
Glassport
Public intoxication noted
Police said Ronald Richards, 44, of Glassport, was cited for public intoxication after causing a disturbance Saturday at 11:10 a.m. in the area of Ohio Avenue.
Disorderly conduct cited
Police said two people were cited with disorderly conduct over the weekend. Eric Pacewicz, 25, of McKeesport, was cited early yesterday morning in the area of Sixth Street and Hemlock Avenue.
• Kathy Peck. 42, of Glassport, was cited Saturday for causing a disturbance in the area of Sixth Street and Allegheny Avenue.
McKeesport Daily News November 8, 2003
Glassport native Paul Bradley begins new diocesan journey
By CAROL WATERLOO FRAZIER Daily News Lifestyles Editor cfrazier@dailynewsemail.com
The
Rev. Paul Bradley began his new role with the Diocese of Pittsburgh yesterday,
and he admits it's a bit intimidating. But he looks forward to the challenge.
Bradley is the new general secretary and vicar general of the Diocese of
Pittsburgh, filling a vacancy created when Auxiliary Bishop the Rev. David
A. Zubik was named Bishop of Green Bay by Pope John Paul II.
Bradley will continue to serve as pastor/rector of St. Paul Cathedral in Oakland until Jan. 2. His replacement is expected to be announced in December.
Describing his new role, he said, "I'll be the COO of the diocese and the bishop (Donald W. Wuerl) is the CEO. I will be overseeing the day-to-day operations of the diocese."
He's also responsible for the programs and activities of the diocese's central administration, as well as supervising the various associated institutions, organizations and programs. Reflecting on his appointment by the bishop, Bradley said, "This is the last thing I ever thought I'd be called upon to do. I was very happy being a pastor of a parish then as pastor/rector of the cathedral. But this is a great privilege."
Some think the position is applied for, but that is not the case. "It's made by the bishop. It's at his own pleasure whom he appoints." He said he will be working "hand-in-hand with Bishop Wuerl and trying to do every thing possible to make this local church more effective."
Born in what was then McKeesport Hospital, Bradley lived with his parents and seven siblings - one brother and six sisters - in Glassport. "One of my memories of growing up in Glassport was every once in a while putting an addition on the house," he said.
He still has ties with the area. His youngest sister is a nurse and when his parents got older, they came to live with her in Elizabeth Twp. "We would all go to her house to see our parents, and even though my mother died five years ago today (Friday), that has become the gathering place for our family."
While growing up, Bradley attended St. Cecilia School and church. It was that upbringing he credits with his desire to enter the ministry. "I give the credit to my parents," he said proudly. "They were great people of faith. Witnessing their faith and with my upbringing it seemed natural I would enter the priesthood. That influence had an impact on my two oldest sisters, too, because they became nuns."
The era also played a role in his decision, he admits. "It was during the '50s when it was a normal thing to think about going into the priesthood. I just thought it would be a logical thing for me to do."
Reflecting on his church memories, he said St. Cecilia is no longer open. In the early 1990s during the consolidation of many churches, the church was closed and the parish became part of the Queen of the Rosary Worship Site in Glassport. "It's a shame the church isn't being used for anything," he reflected. "It's just sitting there, falling apart."
When he decided to pursue his vocation, he said the bishop sent students to schools throughout the country to gain experience of different parts of the United States. Bradley was sent to St. Meinrad High School in Indiana. He went on to earn a bachelor of arts and master of divinity degrees from St. Meinrad College and later a master's degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh.
Bradley was ordained May 1, 1971, by Bishop Vincent Leonard and served the next 12 years as parochial vicar at St. Sebastian in Ross Twp., St. Paul in Butler and St. Kieran (now part of St. Matthew Parish) in Lawrenceville.
From 1983-88, he was director of the diocesan Office for Family Life and secretary for human services (which later became the Secretariat for Social Concerns) from 1988-95. During that time, he also served on the ministry team at Madonna del Castello Parish in Swissvale from 1991-93.
He returned to St. Sebastian Parish in 1994 where he remained until January 2001 when he was named rector of St. Paul Cathedral and pastor of St. Paul Cathedral Parish.
Other roles he's served in the diocese include youth di rector for the Northwest Deanery from 1973-75; family life director in the Butler Deanery, 1977-82; and dean of the Northwest Deanery from 1998-2001.
Through his years in the ministry, Bradley said a milestone for the church was the Second Vatican Council. "That has had major impact on what we do in the Pittsburgh Diocese."
Praising Wuerl, he said, "I think the bishop has done a tremendous job to help the diocese become what the church calls us to be." After only a few hours on the job, Bradley admits it is "very, very intimidating" working alongside the bishop. "I look at him as a great person, and that's intimidating. This job is overwhelming. You know what it's about from a distance, but to actually be doing it is overwhelming. But over the course of time it will all get easier."
His goal is to "keep things moving as efficiently as they already are," he said. "Obviously what I'm called to do is make sure the bishop's goals get accomplished. I also want to be as enabling as possible to the parish priests to help make their ministry as viable as it can be.
McKeesport Daily News November 12, 2003
Glassport
Parking meter damaged
A parking meter and tree were damaged at the intersection of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue last night. Police said the incident occurred at approximately 6:45 p.m.
Simple assault noted
Alex Philhower, no age listed, and Dawn Williams, 26, both of West Newton, were arrested for terroristic threats and harassment after an incident in Glassport Thursday, police said. Philhower also was charged with simple assault.
Police said Philhower and Williams were driving over the Clairton-Glassport Bridge when a person they knew began yelling at them from another vehicle. According to police, the pair pulled over near the vehicle and Philhower got out of his car and hit the man with a stick. Police said Williams told Philhower to hit the man again.
Police report DUI
Police said Ronald Martino, 23, of McKeesport, was arrested for driving under the influence, stop sign and yield sign violations and giving false reports to police Saturday.
Alcohol violation noted
Michele Swanger, 24, of Glassport, was cited for serving alcohol to minors at her residence Saturday, police said.
Nuisance violation cited
Three women reportedly were cited for a nuisance violation for creating a hazard early Saturday morning. Police said the women are Jessica Gross, 19, of West Mifflin; Mindy Bates, 27, of Glassport; and Cindy Shaw, 25, of Glassport.
McKeesport Daily News November 12, 2003
Glassport considers new borough building
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport councilors are considering where to move borough offices.
Council members said the current building is dilapidated and could become dangerous.
During last night's meeting, council discussed several options, including constructing a new building.
Councilman John D'Angelo said if a new building is approved, it should be large enough to house a fire company. He said the borough is considering asking Glassport's two fire companies, Reliance and Citizens, to unite. D'Angelo said the new company wouldn't be a merger of the two companies but a new entity. It still would maintain the heritage of Citizens and Reliance, he stressed. The councilman said combining the companies would solve financial hardships. "This borough has grown too small for two fire companies," he reasoned.
Councilors reportedly have spoke to firefighters about the idea and the reactions have been mixed. "The borough needs to put something on the table to show them we're in their corner," D'Angelo said. They decided to address the possibility in January after council reorganizes.
The new borough building also could house the police station and the public library, both of which are located at the current borough building.
In the meantime, council is considering temporarily moving borough offices to Glassport's senior center. They would either share the space or move the seniors to the youth center temporarily.
Council members also discussed moving the library to the lower level of the youth center while a new borough building is constructed.
In other business, D'Angelo again brought up the subject of guns used by former police officers. Last month, he asked why the guns, left unused when several police chiefs retired, were sold without borough approval. Some councilors said they thought it had been approved a couple years ago. The guns reportedly were sold recently and the money was put into borough coffers.
Mayor Tom Urbanski said last month that he wanted to sell the guns to get money to put toward the purchase of a new computer system for the police department.
D'Angelo said he wants proof that the decision on the guns came before council.
Councilman Robert Stefanic said the measure was passed and that D'Angelo can find it in previous minutes.
Council also renewed its contract for dog law enforcement with Ferree Kennels. The contract is effective through the end of 2005. Also last night, council adopted the final reading of an ordinance forbidding dogs from running free in the borough.
McKeesport Daily News November 13, 2003
Fall festival planned
Saturday in Glassport Ladies Auxiliary to the Glassport Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 will host a fall festival Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the fire hall. Admission is free.
The afternoon will include refreshments, a Chinese auction and bake sale. Additional information is available by calling 412-675-0391.
McKeesport Daily News November 13, 2003
Glassport UM soup sale set
Glassport United Methodist Church will sponsor its annual take-out only soup and bake sale Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Featured soups will be bean, chicken noodle, chili, clam chowder, mushroom, potato, stuffed pepper, vegetable and wedding.
Soups may be purchased at $3 per pint and $5 per quart.
Advance orders will be accepted by calling Vina March at 412-678-8312.
McKeesport Daily News November 13, 2003
Glassport Disorderly cited
Adam Biddle, 19, of Clairton, was cited yesterday afternoon for disorderly conduct.
Police said they chased Biddle on foot and apprehended him at the intersection of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue. Biddle reportedly was in possession of drug paraphernalia, which was confiscated.
McKeesport Daily News November 14, 2003
Glassport
Conduct is cited
Shawnna Everett, 21, and David Bowling, 24, both of Glassport, were cited for disorderly conduct this morning. Police said Everett and Bowling were involved in a domestic dispute at their home along Indiana Avenue. Neighbors reportedly called in the disturbance at 3:25 a.m.
Two men charged
Patrick Bell, 22, of Glassport, and Harvey Jacobs, 22, of Clairton, were arrested Nov. 7 on numerous charges, police reported. Police said Bell and Jacobs were chased on foot and eventually apprehended along Delaware Avenue.
Bell allegedly was in possession of a .40-caliber pistol that was reported stolen in Elizabeth Twp., police said. Bell was charged with aggravated assault, criminal conspiracy, reckless endangerment and receiving stolen property, police reported. He was arraigned at District Justice Edward Burnett's office and transported to Allegheny County Jail, police reported. Bond for Bell was set at $65,000.
Jacobs was charged with possession of marijuana, criminal conspiracy, receiving stolen property and disorderly conduct, police reported. Jacobs also was arraigned at Justice Burnett's office and transported to Allegheny County Jail, police reported. Bond for Jacobs was set at $25,000.
McKeesport Daily News November 15, 2003
Local teen to compete in pageant
Melissa N. Gasdick, daughter of Michael and Veronica Gasdick of Glassport, will compete for the title of Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA Nov. 28-30 at the Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport.
A student at South Allegheny High School, she is a member of the Girls Varsity Basketball team and cheerleading squad and a student council board member. She is employed at the Glassport American Legion Bingo and kitchen at Central Fire Hall.
Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA will represent the state in the Miss Teen USA pageant. Additional information on the pageant may be obtained by visiting the web site at www.pageantassociates.com.
McKeesport Daily News November 15, 2003
Worthing to perform at Glassport-UM
Nashville recording artist Jim Worthing performs Nov. 22 at Glassport United Methodist Church at 7 p.m.
His "I Believe" Thanksgiving concert includes praise and ministry. A free will offering will be taken.
The Altoona native is a former singer for the Cumberland Boys and ReCreation, both awardwinning groups. He also has three solo recordings. Worthing has performed at the Grand Ole Opry, Prime Time Country, Nashville Now, Crook & Chase, several shows on the Trinity Broadcasting Network, 100 Huntley Street and Wall's Channel 40.
The singer has a three octave range, which he uses to share his testimony.
Christopher Heckert is host pastor. The church is located at the corner of Fifth and Ohio avenues.
For information or directions, call the church office at 412-672-2866 or Bill McCracken at 412-461-4700.
McKeesport Daily News November 17, 2003
Glassport
Hoe down planned
A free dance is planned for Wednesday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Glassport's Community Youth Center, located at Seventh Street and Delaware Avenue. The dance is a hoe down with line dancing and western-style square dancing. For more information, call 412-678-5241.
Winners are chosen
Councilman Jim Foster has announced the winners of the 2003 Halloween Parade.
In the prettiest costume contest, first place went to Lori Campaneo, second place to Amber Mease, and third place to Sammie Crist.
Jayme Carroll won first place in the funniest costume contest with Owen Parker and Amber Ophar taking second and third places, respectively.
In the scariest/ ugliest contest, Allan Werner won first place, Brett Nolfi won second place, and A.J. Ramirez won third place.
Autumn Brenizer won first place in the cutest contest with Marke Andrejchak and Jared Dady taking second and third place, respectively.
In the most original contest, Madison and Mekenzie Giles won first place, Tyler Hinerman got second place, and Brienna Fricke got third place.
Prizes can be picked up at the borough office.
McKeesport Daily News November 18, 2003
Glassport
Drug possession cited
Matthew Ruffin, 25, of Pittsburgh, was cited for being in possession of marijuana Saturday. Police said Ruffin was observed at 3 a.m., behind Citizens Hose Company No. 1 fire hall, in possession of a small bag of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Ruffin also was cited for public intoxication.
Drunkenness reported
Barry Warnick, 41, of McKeesport, was arrested for public intoxication Sunday. Police said Warnick was found passed out along Oak Alley at 1:45 a.m.
Underage drinking cited
Tyler Tudick, 19, and Matt Carter, 20, both of Glassport, were arrested Friday for underage drinking. Both Tudick and Carter were cited at a party along Monongahela Avenue at 2 a.m.
McKeesport Daily News November 21, 2003
Glassport Seniors to meet tomorrow
Glassport Senior Citizens Association will meet tomorrow at noon at LaRomana, Monongahela Avenue and Fifth Street, Glassport. The meeting will follow the luncheon.
Frank Tarli will preside. Roberta DeWitt will receive the Outstanding Senior of the Year Award. Greeters will be Tony and Mary Spagnola. S
teve Oley and Helen Horox-Nelson are in charge of the luncheon.
McKeesport Daily News November 21, 2003
Pre-holiday bingo set in Glassport
Queen of the Rosary Parish in Glassport will host a PreThanksgiving Bingo Sunday in the social hall there at 530 Michigan Ave.
Early bird games will begin at 7 p.m. followed by regular games at 7:30. A bake sale will be featured.
Tickets are $3 per person in advance or $3.50 per person at the door.
Additional information is available by calling Donna Cendroski at 412-678-7315 or Rita Henry, 412-673-2588.
McKeesport Daily News November 21, 2003
Glassport
Disorderly cited
Anna Snyder, 18, of Glassport was cited last night for disorderly conduct. Police said Snyder was creating a disturbance along the 500 block of Allegheny Avenue at approximately 10 p.m. Snyder reportedly would not leave the scene after numerous warnings and was subsequently apprehended and cited.
McKeesport Daily News November 25, 2003
Glassport
DUI arrests made
• Jacob Skiffington, 23, of Glassport, was arrested Sunday for driving under the influence of alcohol. Police said Skiffington was stopped in the vicinity of the intersection of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue at approximately 2 a.m. Skffington also was charged with driving with an expired license and no inspection.
• Nancy L. Linkhauer, 42, of Glassport, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol Sunday. Police said Linkhauer was stopped and apprehended along the 900 block of Ohio Avenue at approximately 10 p.m.
• David Green, 44, of Connellsville, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol Sunday. Police said Green was stopped and apprehended in the vicinity of Seventh Street and Monongahela Avenue at 3 a.m.
Drunkenness cited
Dustin Rivera, 18, of Glassport, was arrested Saturday for public drunkenness. Police said Rivera was creating a disturbance at approximately 7 p.m. along Monongahela Avenue and Sixth Street.
McKeesport Daily News December 3, 2003
Glassport
Holiday celebration set
Councilman James Foster has announced that the annual light-up night is scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. at Honor Roll Park. Refreshments will be served immediately following the celebration at the American Legion with a special appearance by a surprise guest.
McKeesport Daily News December 10, 2003
Glassport hopes to hold line on taxes
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport councilors do not have a tax increase planned for the borough, as of now.
At last night's meeting, council voted 5-2 to approve the first reading of the 2004 budget, with millage holding the line at last year's rate. Councilmen James Morningstar and John D'Angelo voted no.
The next budget meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 6 p.m. Morningstar said council is still working on the budget but is trying to keep taxes the same as last year.
Also in preparation for next year, council chose Central Tax as the borough's delinquent garbage fee collector.
In other business, Police Chief Howard Kifer's salary was raised from his current lieutenant salary to chief's salary. It will be pro-rated to when Kifer took over as chief in April.
Also last night, D'Angelo announced the borough will receive a $29,000 grant for Delaware Avenue reconstruction. The funds came from a Community Development Block Grant.
Mayor Tom Urbanski thanked D'Angelo for his work with Twin Rivers Council of Governments.
Councilman James Foster also announced the borough's annual light-up night was a success. Foster said nearly 150 children showed up despite Friday's heavy snow storm. Foster thanked everyone who helped make the event possible and the public works employees for helping to set up the lights.
McKeesport Daily News December 30, 2003
With no tax hike
Glassport council adopts 2004 budget
By REBECCA R. MARKOVITZ Daily News Staff Writer rmarkovitz@dailynewsemail.com
After much deliberation, Glassport councilors adopted a 2004 budget with no tax hike.
At a special budget meeting last night, councilors adopted a $1,416,250 budget while holding millage at 4.85 mills.
Council President Terry DiMarco said he is happy with the work done preparing the budget. "I think we have come up with a good budget and I want to thank everyone who has helped," DiMarco said. "We are relying heavily on collecting delinquent taxes," he added. "As long as we do that, we will be able to keep to this budget. We will be able to handle this budget as long as we take care of our delinquent taxes and watch our spending."
Mayor Tom Urbanski said he is slightly worried about the budget. "I predict that if we pass this budget and don't do what we have to do to collect the delinquent taxes, we are going to hit the dust," Urbanski said. "By June, if we continue spending the way we are, we are going to go down the chute.
"I am really concerned myself, as mayor. We are trying our best, but we could do without a lot of things that we have been spending on. This budget will require us to sit down every month and watch where every single dollar goes."
Councilor James Uziel expressed similar sentiments. "The budget is definitely based on the aggressive collection of delinquent garbage, sewage and real estate taxes." he said. "Without the successful collection of them, we are sunk. "Therefore, we have taken steps to assure the successful collection, and have made a commitment to aggressively go after this money.
The council's job is to provide the basic services - police, fire and safe passage on roads. The recreation fund is the last thing I want to see cut, but if it comes to it in the future, we may have to begin to prioritize."
McKeesport Daily News December 30, 2003
Glassport
Harassment reported
• Terry Bailey, 53, of Glassport, was cited for harassment Dec. 19. Police said Bailey was involved in a fight along the 400 block of Erie Avenue at approximately 11 p.m. He reportedly was cited and released.
• Joshua Messner, 21, of Port Vue, was cited for harassment Dec. 20. Police said Messner was involved in a fight inside a tavern - at approximately 11:30 p.m. He was cited and released.
Drunkenness cited
Jason Patton, 25, of Glassport, was cited for public drunkenness Dec. 20. Police said Patton was observed intoxicated while walking near the intersection of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue at approximately 2 a.m. Police said he was cited and released.
Disorderly reported
Katie Hallock, 22, of North Versailles Twp., was cited for disorderly conduct Dec. 20. Police said she was highly intoxicated and causing a disturbance in the parking lot of Reliance Hose Co. No. 1 along Monongahela Avenue at 3:15 a.m.
Underage arrest made
Matthew Carter, 20, of Liberty, was arrested yesterday for underage drinking. Police said Carter was observed to be in possession of an alcoholic beverage at the intersection of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue at approximately 2 a.m. He was cited and released, police said.
McKeesport Daily News January 5, 2004
Glassport
Disorderlies cited
Robert Scott, 33, and Mary Martin, 43, of Glassport, were cited for disorderly conduct last night. Police said Scott and Martin were involved in an altercation along the 600 block of Allegheny Avenue at approximately 8 o'clock.
They were cited and subsequently released, police said.
DUI reported
Christopher Muic, 20, of Port Vue, was arrested Dec. 28 for driving under the influence of alcohol and underage drinking.
Police said Muic made an illegal U turn toward oncoming traffic along the 600 block of Monongahela Avenue at approximately 2 a.m. Police said Muic smelled of alcohol and was given a field sobriety test, which he failed.
McKeesport Daily News January 6, 2004
Glassport councilors take oath of office
By THE DAILY NEWS
Two incumbent Glassport councilors and three new council members have been sworn into office.
At a ceremony last night, councilors John D'Angelo and James Uziel and newcomers Michael Ksiazek and John Desue took the oath of office for four-year terms.
Former Police Chief Eugene Skerkoski was sworn in for a two-year term.
Terry DiMarco and James Uziel will continue as president and vice president.
In August, DiMarco was elected president of council when Robert Stefanic stepped down. Stefanic said he resigned because he did not run for re-election in November and wanted to give a new president time to adjust to the role. DiMarco was not up for re-election in November.
Vice President Uziel said in August that he did not want to become president and therefore supported DiMarco.
McKeesport Daily News January 9, 2004
Routine police visit developsinto major drug bust in Glassport
By CHUCK GIBSON Daily News Staff Writer cgibson@dailynewsemail.com
What first appeared to be a case of underage drinking developed into a major drug seizure for Glassport police.
Last night, officers arrested Gregg Cegelski, 39, of Glassport, the owner of Chuggers bar along Monongahela Avenue, on charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia and selling alcohol to a person under age 21.
The arrest came after police reportedly found cocaine, large amounts of cash and video equipment in the bar.
It began as a routine stop for police as officers Kevin Wright, Shawn DeVerse and Lt. Ronald Benoit told local bar owners of Chief Howard Kifer's new program aimed curtailing loud noise and obnoxious behavior at such establishments.
At Cegelski's bar, Wright and DeVerse discovered a suspected underage drinker and got a warrant to search the premises. Dravosburg and McKeesport police assisted.
Dravosburg Lt. Tim Conboy and Officer Cliff LeFever helped secure the area. They were joined by Officer Fran Angert from McKeesport and Baton, one of McKeesport's police K-9s.
Wright and DeVerse reportedly found about $4,000 in cash, 69 grams of powdered cocaine, several chunks of rock cocaine and four packets of prepackaged cocaine. Street value of the drugs is approximately $8,000, police said.
"This is just scratching the surface," said Wright, pointing to the $100 bills and bag of cocaine neatly laid out on a table in the Glassport library. "You don't run into that much cocaine every day."
DeVerse displayed a small bag of rock cocaine and said, "We found this on the bar." Cegelski's wallet was laid open on the table and DeVerse made a chopping motion with his hand as he described how cocaine is cut.
"We found residue on his credit cards," the officer said. "That's how it was being cut up for use." DeVerse also explained how Cegelski evaded police for so long.
"He was watching us on this monitor," he said, pointing to a television at the back corner of the table. "He would cover up everything when we came in. In fact; he was out of the back very fast once we entered."
Wright held up an already square-folded magazine page and said, "We found this in the ladies room. It's how the cocaine packets were wrapped."
Cegelski is scheduled to be arraigned today in front of Clairton District Justice Armand Martin and will be transported to Allegheny County Jail after spending the morning in a Glassport cell.
Kifer thanked neighboring departments for their help and praised the team effort to get Cegelski off the streets. "We want to keep our communities working together," he said. "Working as a team is how things like this get done."
McKeesport Daily News January 12, 2004
Glassport
Intoxication reported
• Robert Paul Chiappino, 49, of Glassport, was cited for public intoxication and disorderly conduct Saturday. Police said Chiappino appeared intoxicated and threatened to shoot others and himself along the 1000 block of Delaware Avenue at approximately 11:45 p.m. He was cited and transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
• Eric Fairbanks, 25, of Glassport, was arrested for public drunkenness, disorderly conduct and harassment Saturday morning. Police said Fairbanks appeared highly intoxicated and threatened to assault someone along the 700 block of Vermont Avenue at approximately 3 a.m.
• Donald Wiley, 30, of West Mifflin, was cited for public intoxication yesterday. Police said Wiley was found highly intoxicated in Oak Alley at 3:30 a.m.
Mischief arrest made
Adam Naylor, 25, of Glass port, was arrested for criminal mischief Saturday. Police said Naylor tossed a brick through his exgirlfriend's window at approximately 2 a.m. The incident reportedly occurred along the 700 block of Monongahela Avenue,
Man arrested for D U I
Frank Gribschaw, 24, of Elizabeth, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol Jan. 3. Police said Gribschaw was observed driving erratically along Ohio Avenue. Police said he appeared to be highly intoxicated and subsequently failed a field sobriety test. Police said he also was driving with a suspended license.
McKeesport Daily News January 13, 2004
Former Doyle staffer challenges Ruffing
By JENNIFER R. VERTULLO Daily News Staff Writer jvertullo@dailynewsemal.com
Glassport's Jamie Colecchi is challenging incumbent Democrat Kenneth Ruffing to represent Pennsylvania's 38th District.
Colecchi, former director of economic development for U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, D Penn Hills, is seeking Ruffing's seat in the state House of Representatives. If elected, the Glassport politician will represent the boroughs of Liberty, Port Vue, Glassport, Pleasant Hills and Dravosburg as well as parts of West Mifflin and Baldwin and sections of McKeesport.
This morning, Colecchi said he hopes to channel a life-long Mon Valley perspective into the 38th District seat. "I will be the active, responsible and knowledgeable leader that the people deserve, and constituent service will be a top priority in my office," Colecchi said.
Having a background in economic development. Colecchi said he plans to focus his efforts in that direction with attention to transportation, property tax relief and the constituent service of which he spoke. "I can point to my leading roles in successful development projects that have resulted in job growth and an increased tax base in the Mon Valley, such as MAGLEV in McKeesport, American Textile in Duquesne and Recovery Technologies Group in Braddock," he said.
Colecchi said he also plans to learn of his district's specific needs by speaking with elected officials of each community. He said he already recognized a need for attention regarding the Mon/Fayette Expressway and the completion of flyover ramps in Duquesne and McKeesport.
Colecchi earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Pittsburgh, an associate's degree from Community College of Allegheny County and is a graduate of South Allegheny High School. He, his wife Michelle and son Clayton are lifelong residents of the South Allegheny School District.
McKeesport Daily News January 13, 2004
Martin will dispense justice from Glassport
By DAVID WHIPKEY Daily News Staff Writer dwhipkey@dailynewsemail.com
Armand Martin realizes some local residents may be confused by the redistricting of district justices. Not only does he serve the citizens of Clairton, Martin now hears cases originating from Glassport, Port Vue and Liberty.
Martin said he wants to reassure his constituents the level of justice served won't be compromised. "We're ready for hearings tomorrow," he said yesterday. "We're as ready as we're ever going to be."
Martin will be hearing cases formerly presided over by District Justice Edward Burnett, who retired a year early due to redistricting. "I've been in Glassport since last Wednesday," Martin noted. "We've been getting things organized over here and trying to get ready for this week."
Cases formerly heard in Clairton will now be presided over by Martin in his new Glassport office. "We're located at One Allegheny Square, Glassport, Pa, 15045," he said. "We're right by the fire company. People should be able to find it.,
Although the redistricting has been an inconvenience, Martin said it was necessary. "The state made the call," he explained. "Redistricting is state mandated. We did not have a choice."
Martin said his office will remain an efficient place to dispense justice. "Even with the merge, we should be fine," he insisted. "I can be reached at the Clairton and South Allegheny offices."
McKeesport Daily News January 14, 2004
Glassport council hears weather issues
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport council has discussed solutions for two weatherrelated problems in the borough.
A large amount of precipitation and a harsh winter have caused two situations in the borough to intensify.
Residents of Fairview Street last night asked council to look into alleviating a drainage problem on their street.
Water reportedly comes down the hill in this area after a heavy rainfall and causes extreme ice conditions as temperatures drop.
Councilors said the borough will look into placing another catch basin in the turnaround area of the street which should help gather a lot of water.
Also, council approved the advertisement of a proposed ordinance to restrict parking on the west side of Fairview Street from Harrison Street to the end of Fairview.
Council also discussed a sliding problem along a portion of Juniata Street. Councilors agreed to allow the borough engineer to take a look at the area before the condition worsens.
In other business, council discussed several fees and service changes within the borough.
Council approved a second reading of a business privilege tax of $100 per business. The ordinance will require a third and final reading to go into effect. Council also approved a second reading of a raise in the amusement devices license fee from $400 to $500. Amusement devices include electronic game machines. If approved, the fee would take effect immediately.
Council amended the cable franchise fee, raising it from 3 to 5 percent.
County Hauling garbage payment collection also is slated for a change. The borough previously had collected the garbage fees. Now, County Hauling will be doing its own billing. The only change residents should notice is that County Hauling bills in advance of each quarter of service, when the borough had billed after the fact. Bills will continue to be sent through the borough for the January, February and March cycle. Councilors reminded residents they will not be billed double.
Also last night, councilors said they will continue to look into bringing recycling back to the borough. The service was suspended at the beginning of the year.
Members rescinded the hiring of Central Tax Bureau for the collection of delinquent garbage taxes and opted to go with Keystone Municipal Service. Councilors also announced the borough will hire two fulltime sworn remedial officers for at least three years and three months to remedy a problem with a COPS grant. Mayor Tom Urbanski said the borough also may be advertising for the administering of a civil service test to fill two possible full-time police officer positions.
Councilman John D'Angelo mentioned the. borough is considering hiring a code enforcement officer to deal with problems such as the boarding up of store fronts, which is prohibited by an ordinance. "Every time I drive through the borough, I see more and more boarded-up businesses," D'Angelo said. "It's making the town look like a ghost town."
Council also announced several grants last night. More than $10,000 was received from Twin Rivers Council of Governments for Euclid Avenue reconstruction.
Twin Rivers COG also kicked in a $20,000 grant for a playground along Third Street, right off the bike trail. Equipment will be brought in from the borough's old grade school. Borough workers, volunteers and Boy Scouts will be doing the labor.
A Community Development Block Grant was received in the amount of $41,800. The grant will be used to conduct a study downtown for renovation projects such as off-street parking and new office space for local businesses.
The borough also received a $5,700 grant from state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-Dravosburg, for eight new radios for the police department. The radios should be received next week.
The police department also received a $1,600 donation from former resident Steve Frobuk for a new computer.
McKeesport Daily News January 19, 2004
Glassport
Break-ins reported
Police are investigating a rash of vehicle break-ins that began Saturday. Police said valuables such as CDs, cellular phones and change have been taken from vehicles. Lt. Ron Benoit added most of the vehicles which have been broken into are late1980's models.
Residents are advised to ,secure their vehicles and to remove valuable items from inside.
DUI arrest made
Max Barenyk, 23, of North Versailles Twp., was arrested Saturday for driving under the influence of alcohol. Police said Barenyk was observed driving the wrong way on Sixth Street at approximately 3 a.m. Police said when he was stopped, officers determined Barenyk was intoxicated.
Misconduct cited
Sara Orient, 44, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct Saturday. Police said she was causing a disturbance along Marie Street at approximately 1:30 p.m.
McKeesport Daily News January 20, 2004
Glassport
Applications sought
Glassport is seeking applications for the positions of code enforcement officer, borough treasurer, and two new police officers.
The code enforcement officer will enforce borough ordinances and apply any fines which are instituted in the ordinances.
The borough treasurer must have a deep knowledge of accounting principles, balancing budgets, bank statements, working at budget sessions, and answering any financial questions the borough may have.
Anyone who is interested in the code or treasurer position should write a letter to the borough council at 440 Monongahela Ave., Glassport, 15045.
Anyone interested in a full-time police position should pick up an application at the borough secretary's office or the police department, both located at 440 Monongahela Ave. Applicants will have to take a civil service test administered by the borough for a fee. The date of the test will be announced later.
W-2 forms available
W-2 forms for 2003 are available for pickup at the borough secretary's office Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Volunteers announced
Glassport Library volunteers should report on their scheduled day. Today, Dorothy Rizzo and Betty Charney will work. Thursday, Ruth Whirl and Lois Seachrist are scheduled. On Jan. 27, Dorothy Manzlak and Gail Kwolek should report. On Jan. 29, Ann Dzurko and Nelly Sherman are scheduled.
McKeesport Daily News January 24, 2004
Glassport
Officers are named
Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 has named officers for 2004.
Officers are Wayne Lewis, chief; Dan Lewis, assistant chief; Tony Moranelli Jr., captain; Ron Joseph, first lieutenant; and Bill Haberjak, second lieutenant.
Also, Greg Haughey, president; Mike Komondor, vice president; Anthony Moranelli Sr., treasurer; Dan Kolick financial secretary; Nick Sorrentino, recording secretary; Jim Poston, camp boss; and Justin Danko, recorder of hours.
Trustees are Jonathan Petrik, Justin Danko, John McGough, Tony. Moranelli Jr., Mark Colehepp, Brian Gregg and Bruce Snyir were named safety officers.
McKeesport Daily News January 27, 2004
Glassport
Harassment cited
Kathy Stanley, no age given, of McKeesport, was cited for harassment Saturday.
Police said she was calling and harassing a Glassport man over the phone.
Stanley was reportedly intoxicated during the calls.
She was cited and released, police said.
Drunkenness reported
Christopher Bruck, 26, of Glassport, was cited for public intoxication Sunday morning.
Police said Bruck was observed walking erratically near the intersection of Eighth Street and Monongahela Avenue.
Police said he was held until deemed sober.
McKeesport Daily News January 29, 2004
Glassport
Police test planned
Application forms for two full-time police officer positions are available at the borough building from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
A non-refundable $35 fee (cash or money order) must be paid to the borough before obtaining an application.
Completed applications must be turned into the borough secretary during normal business house by the close of business Feb. 11.
A written examination is set for Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. at Glassport American Legion Post 443, located along Monongahela Avenue in Glassport.
Other mandatory components to be scheduled later are an oral exam, back ground check, fitness test, medical exam, and a psychological exam.
All applicants must be 21 years old, a high school graduate or have a high school equivalent, certified as a police officer in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and have a valid driver's license.
A complete copy of the rules of the Civil Service examination is available for inspection at the borough building.
For more information, call 412-672-7400.
McKeesport Daily News February 3, 2004
Glassport
Drunk driving reported
James Taylor, 36, of Monroeville, was cited Friday for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Police said Taylor was involved in a minor traffic accident along the 800 block of Monongahela Avenue at 2:30 a.m.
He was cited and later released.
McKeesport Daily News February 3, 2004
Glassport
Library volunteers set
Volunteers at Glassport Library should report on their scheduled day.
Today, Sandy Urbanski and Helen March are scheduled. Thursday, Florence Gerstner and Jeni Szmyd are slated to report. Feb. 10, Bernice Palmiero and Dena Schottiner are scheduled. Feb. 12, Jane Drogoski and Leslie Morrow are set to report.
Also, library patrons will not be charged for recently overdue books as the library was closed during inclement weather.
McKeesport Daily News February 4, 2004
Glassport
Misconduct cited
John Swantek, 39, of Glassport, was cited Friday for disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Police said Swatek was playing his stereo at a high volume at his home along the 300 block of Sixth Street at approximately 2 a.m.
Police also reportedly discovered items of drug paraphernalia inside the home. He was cited and released.
McKeesport Daily News February 11, 2004
Glassport hires code enforcement officer
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport has a code enforcement officer.
At last night's meeting, council hired Richard Harris for the recently created position. Harris is a member of Reliance Hose Co. No. 1 and currently serves as the borough's fire marshal and BOCA official. Harris will be responsible for enforcing the borough's nuisance ordinances and citing for other violations.
Mark Colhepp also will step in as assistant fire official and assistant code enforcer.
Councilors said they hope the new officers will help clean up Glassport, which has heard many complaints from residents about unkempt properties and dangerous buildings.
In another effort to clean up, councilors approved the condemnation and demolition of a building at 512 Monongahela Ave., which is deemed a nuisance and a threat to health and safety. The work will be done with a grant from Twin Rivers Council of Governments.
Another COG grant, in the amount of $37,000, will be used to reconstruct Delaware Avenue. The total work will cost $42,000, and the borough will cover the $5,000 balance.
A plan for off-street parking was approved for the downtown area after receipt of a Community Development Block Grant.
Also last night, council approved several ordinances, including the 2004 sewage budget. The budget is balanced, council said.
They also approved a business privilege tax at $100 per business.
License fees for amusement devices were amended. A $500 fee will be required for games of chance, like video poker machines. A $50 fee will be required for jukeboxes. Amusement games such as pinball will require a $125 payment.
Parking on the west side of Fairview Avenue is restricted between Harrison Avenue to the end of Fairview Street.
Council approved an ordinance imposing the cost of delinquent real estate and garbage collection on the delinquent taxpayers.
Council amended the existing garbage collection contract with County Hauling, giving the company the responsibility of billing and fee collection. The only change residents should notice is that County Hauling bills in advance of each quarter of service. The borough charged after the fact. The borough will continue to send bills for the January, February and March cycle. Councilors reminded residents they will not be billed double.
Council also passed a seat belt survey program. As part of the state's "Click It or Ticket" effort, a borough officer will do a survey of passing motorists to see how many are wearing seat belts.
Council approved a first reading of an ordinance prohibiting the operation of motorized and non-motorized scooters, skates, coasters, sleds, bicycles, pedacycles, and skateboards on borough sidewalks and highways.
Councilors also mentioned they are considering looking into this year's budget. State law requires that reopened spending plans be advertised and available for public review for at least 10 days and be finalized by Feb. 15. That does not give the borough enough time to complete this, so councilors are looking into alternative routes.
Council also is looking into alternatives to bring back the recycling program, which was discontinued this year. For now, residents who want to recycle cans can do so by taking clean cans to a bin behind Citizens Hose Co. No. 1, located along Oak Alley. Councilor John D'Angelo said not only would residents be doing something good for the environment, they also would be helping out a local fire company that benefits from the proceeds of the recycling.
McKeesport Daily News February 11, 2004
Glassport offers gunlocks, emergency cards
By DAVID WHIPKEY Daily News Staff' Writer dwhipkey@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport police are taking extra steps to protect their residents.
Starting yesterday, the department made approximately 1,000 gunlocks and more than 100 emergency contact cards available. "We want to take care of our people," Chief Howard Kifer explained. "It's our way of saying, `Hey, we care about vou."'
The chief said the gunlocks can help prevent accidental shootings. "There are a lot of hunters that live in Glassport," he said. "This is a big town for hunters. We have hunter safety programs for kids, too."
Kifer said the emergency cards were created with senior citizens in mind. "These cards are mostly for seniors who live alone, but any senior can absolutely have them." Like the gunlocks, the cards are free of charge. "The cards should be kept in a known place," Kifer said. "They must be accessible for emergency personnel."
The cards contain space for a person's name, address, doctor's name, emergency contacts and medical information such as blood type and allergies. "Keep the cards wherever you'll be," the chief requested.
Ed Wojciechowski Funeral Home in Glassport donated the cards and WIVAGG Printing printed them free of charge.
"We felt that this was something good for us to help the community here in Glassport," Kifer explained.
The gunlocks and cards are available at the police station along Monongahela Avenue Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
McKeesport Daily News February 11, 2004
SA parents lash out at directors
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
Some South Allegheny residents are worried that politics are overcoming academics in the district.
Recent actions by the school board have caused concern that political vendettas are taking priority over education.
While school board members met in an executive session last night, some parents voiced their opinions on politics in the district and said they may take measures to the state level to keep things from getting worse.
Until this year, the political split of the board was 5-4. Now the former minority has a 7-2 majority.
Nancy Myers of Lincoln said she discussed votes by the new board - rescinding previous board actions regarding football positions and contract extensions of administration - with other district parents and her uncle who has school board experience in Michigan. She said the board needs to concentrate on the welfare of the students and not get wrapped up in politics because it's giving South Allegheny a bad name.
"Several parents are contemplating taking their children (out of the district)," she said. "Academics should come first." Myers said she and other parents are considering publishing letters on the issue and possibly going to the Pennsylvania Department of Education to see if these actions are legal. Her son is in ninth grade, and Myers said she'd prefer to leave him in the district. "They're not doing what's best for the kids," Myers said.
"Because of the vindictiveness, they can't work together." Jeni Szmyd of Glassport said if things continue, "the quality of education (in South Allegheny) will suffer and people are going to leave the district."
Her husband Rick said he thinks the actions are about vengeance for measures taken by the previous board. He said Board President Dianne Rosche has been a "peacekeeper" on the board and has tried to maintain a balance as other directors take sides.
Susie Murn, also of Glassport, has an eighth-grader and a ninth-grader in the district. Her third child is enrolled at St. Joseph Regional in Port Vue, and she said she's not sure if transferring to SA is the best decision. "We'll see what happens, but I don't know what to do," Murn said.
The parents didn't address the issue during the public comment portion of the meeting because they said it would "fall on deaf ears."
Rosche said these comments are nothing new and that there always are complaints about politics overriding academics.
Director Doris Bailley said she believes the board is doing a good job and has been told that people are happy with the way things are going. "There's no political agenda," she said. "You can't please everyone, but I think we're pleasing most of them."
In other business last night, Liberty resident Jim Campbell questioned Director Terry Dozzi about her behavior during meetings. "Your actions are comical if not appalling," he said. He said Dozzi should resign as a consequence to her alleged actions after the October board meeting. She is charged with running over district Police Chief Kris Kircher with her vehicle that night after learning of her husband's arrest. Charges of inciting student food fights and furnishing cigarettes to minors against Eugene Dozzi subsequently were dropped.
The school director said she's innocent until proven otherwise and that she'll stay on the board.
McKeesport Daily News February 24, 2004
Glassport
Disorderlies reported
Police said the following people were charged with disorderly conduct:
• Dustin Rivera, 18, of Glassport, was arrested Feb. 9. Police said Rivera was discovered ransacking unlocked vehicles along the 600 block of Indiana Avenue at approximately 12:45 a.m.
• Jason Sinn, 29, of Baldwin, and Adam Naylor, 25, and Denille Abdullah, 25, of Glassport, were cited following a brawl Friday night along the 700 block of Hemlock Way.
Public intox charged
John Guy, 34, of West Mif flin, was cited yesterday for public intoxication. Police said Guy was observed being a danger to himself and others along the 800 block of Hemlock Way.
McKeesport Daily News February 26, 2004
Glassport
Intoxication reported
Roy Shelton, 42, of Glassport, was cited Saturday for public intoxication. Police said Shelton was observed being a danger to others and himself near the intersection of Oak Avenue and Seventh Street at approximately 2 a.m. He was held until sober, police said.
McKeesport Daily News February 26, 2004
Glassport Rosary Society to gather
Rosary Society of Queen of the Rosary Church, Glassport, will hold its first meeting of the year Monday at 7 p.m. in the social hall.
Recitation of a decade of the rosary and Chaplet of the Divine Mercy will precede the session and Corrine Hopkins will preside and lead members in prayers.
Dues will be collected for the year and Group 1, led by Helen Stefanie, will serve as hostesses. A social will follow.
McKeesport Daily News March 8, 2004
Glassport
Disorderlies cited
• Todd Thompson, 24, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct and public intoxication yesterday. Police said Thompson was walking down the middle of Ohio Avenue and appeared to be drunk shortly before 1 a.m. He was reportedly being loud and obscene. Police said he was held until deemed sober.
• Mary Smith, 40, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct and public intoxication Friday. Police said Smith was observed causing a ruckus outside a tavern near the intersection of Allegheny Avenue and Sixth Street shortly before 2 a.m.
• Mary Martin, 43, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct Friday. Police said Martin was creating a disturbance at her residence along Allegheny Avenue at approximately 1 a.m. She reportedly refused to allow police entry into her home. She was cited and released.
• Ricky Ingram, 28, of Port Vue, was cited for public intoxication and disorderly conduct Saturday. Police said Ingram was ordered to leave a residence along Maryland Avenue shortly before 7 a.m. and refused to leave. He was cited and later released until deemed sober, police said.
• Brent Kovac, 36, of Port Vue, was cited for public intoxication and disorderly conduct yesterday. Police said Kovac was observed highly intoxicated along the intersection of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue at 2:30 a.m. He was also reportedly found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana. He was cited and released.
Drunkenness reported
John Rager, 47, of Glassport, was cited for public drunkenness yesterday. Rager was observed sleeping on a bench along Monongahela Avenue shortly before midnight, police said. Police said he was highly intoxicated and held until deemed sober.
McKeesport Daily News March 10, 2004
SA board buys out Risha's contract
By MELISSA SPANGLER Daily News Staff Writer mspangler@dailynewsemail.com
South Allegheny Superintendent Patrick Risha will soon part ways with the school district. Last night, directors - by 5-3 vote - approved a written agreement of separation and release with Risha that takes effect Sept. 21.
The action follows several disputes between the superintendent and school board members.
Board President Diane Rosche, Vice President Doris Bailley and directors Caroline Popovic, Blair Wojton and Falco Muscante comprised the majority. Directors opposing the move included Russ Geary, Luke Riley and Dino DiFelice. Neither School Director Terry Dozzi nor Risha attended the meeting.
Risha declined comment when reached this morning.
Riley said he voted against the move because he wasn't firm on the details of the agreement.
DiFelice declined comment.
Geary said he voted no because "it's a ridiculous waste of taxpayer money."
Terms of the agreement - including the cost of buying out Risha's contract - are being kept confidential and Solicitor Albert Zangrilli Jr. advised the board not to discuss the matter. However, a joint statement issued by the district and Risha states the superintendent is being released from his contract due to a difference of opinion with respect to the administration of the school district.
At the November 2003 board meeting - before the current majority took office - former school directors extended Risha's contract through September 2009 by a 5-4 vote. That extension included a 4 percent raise, which would increase Risha's salary from $120,000 to $124,869. At that time, Popovic told those voting in favor of the extension would be "thumbing your noses" at SA voters and the new board would have the right to scrutinize any proposed contract or extension.
In January, board members instructed Zangrilli to see if the contract could be nullified. Prior to these actions, other differences of opinion dealt with construction of the new elementary school in Port Vue - which now houses students from all communities in the district - and closings of neighbor hood schools in Port Vue and Glassport.
Personnel matters with football coaches also caused controversy between Risha and the board. Risha served as the high school varsity coach last year and then resigned when the former board hired Jason Cappa. That hire was rescinded by the new board this year and Frank Cortazzo was hired to replace Risha on the sideline.
Last night, former board members John Matyasovsky and Walt Hibner spoke up with their feelings on the decision.
Matyasovsky asked what the agreement will cost, and who will succeed Risha. He wasn't given an answer. "It's a shame with the hatred here," he said. "You don't want to put a price on it ... you just want to do what you want to do."
Hibner said the agreement will be public record and people will have access to the information. He also said he doesn't know how the district can afford this agreement. "I know there is absolutely zero fat in this budget. (Last year) we cut everything we could (to save money) with out cutting education," Hibner said. "The money has to come from somewhere. You can cut programs and raise taxes (to raise money). If you are raising (taxes) to cut a deal ... that's a problem."
The former board president added that new directors have yet to discuss education since taking office. "It's time to stop litigating ... let's start educating," he said.
McKeesport Daily News March 10, 2004
Glassport OKs $120K loan
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport councilors are cutting costs and gathering funds to make up for a shortfall in the budget.
Last night, council approved a $120,000 loan to finance expenses while waiting for additional tax income. Councilman John D'Angelo dissented.
Councilors said they hope the shortfall will not amount to any layoffs.
The loan reportedly was necessary to make up for a $33,639.75 overdraw in the general fund and a $24,413.50 overdraw in the payroll account.
Council President Terry DiMarco said money always is tight this time of year for Glassport and other similar communities until tax money starts coming in during April and May. "We have a little bit of a problem here," DiMarco said. "But we're working on it."
The president added that part of the problem is the large amount of delinquent taxes owed. Nearly $100,000 in back taxes were due from last year, he said. DiMarco added council is looking into many costcutting plans.
The borough recently stopped collecting garbage fees, instead allowing the hauler to do so.
The borough authorized some public works employees to do minor repairs on borough vehicles and put a halt on recycling for the time being. Taking the recycling truck off the insurance bill saves approximately $1,200 per year.
DiMarco hopes the cuts don't have to go too far. "We may have to lay people off," he explained. "We don't want to lay people off, but we're exploring all avenues."
Council currently is looking into the possibility of listing delinquent taxpayers in newspapers to drum up overdue funds.
In other business, councilors discussed a variety of problem areas in the borough, including Oregon Avenue. The roadway has been plagued by mudslides and deterioration in recent months. Reportedly, the slide occurs on private property, but debris finds its way to the lightly traveled public roadway.
Councilman James Uziel said road crews have been monitoring the situation daily and have been removing mud and debris.
They also are keeping a close eye on Harrison Street. Delaware Avenue and Detroit Hollow, all of which experience water overflow troubles. Council agreed to look into adding more catch basins in some of those areas to help alleviate the problem.
Page last updated March 12, 2004