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 14, 2005
Glassport Help available for bills
Council President Terry DiMarco and Councilman Eugene Skerkoski remind residents that Dominion Peoples customers still may apply for assistance with paying their energy bills.
The deadline for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program crisis grants has been extended to March 31.
Crisis grants of up to $300 are awarded to families with heating emergencies such as mechanical breakdowns, unexpected fuel shortages or pending shut-off notices.
Interested parties should contact their utility company for more information. LIHEAP can be reached at 866-857-7095.
McKeesport Daily News March 15, 2005
Glassport Women slate meeting
March meeting of the Glassport Women's Club will take place Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Glassport Library.
Donna Kurucz will preside and the Club Collect will be read by Sandy Urbanski. Reporting will be Betty Gaydos, corresponding and recording secretary; Dorothy Rizzo, treasurer; and Anne Dzurko, library coordinator.
Hostesses for the afternoon will be Kurucz and Urbanski.
McKeesport Daily News March 15, 2005
Sons of Italy 941 meeting arranged
Sons of Italy Lodge 941 in Glassport will gather Wednesday at 8 p.m. in the club hall, Sixth and Allegheny avenues, Glassport. Highlighting the meeting will be the nomination and election of officers.
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING OF GLASSPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL MARCH 15, 2005
The Regular Monthly Meeting of the Glassport Borough Council was called to order.
Roll Call: D'Angelo, present; DeSue, present; Ksiazek, present; Mihoces, absent; Skerkoski, present; Uziel, absent; DiMarco, present; Mayor Urbanski, absent; Motion made by Skerkoski second by D'Angelo to hear citizens comments.
Mickey Stetor - Pertaining to that notorious web site, there is an article on there about a woman by the name of Teresa Countryman. She states on there that she is a lifelong resident of Liberty and that she recently has been able to purchase the home that she grew up in. Consider me old fashioned, but when I get married, I generally live with my wife. I don't know if Officer Countryman is living with his wife up in Liberty, but if he is, is that a violation of some code here that a police officer here lives outside of the town?
Gary Matta - There may be items in the collective bargaining agreement that may need to be addressed. That may be a personnel item and I wouldn't want to respond. There are issues about a police officer living within the borough limits.
Stetor - How long has this been going on? Have people turned a blind eye to this?
Whaby - He is having wage tax deducted from his pay.
Stetor - So does paying wage tax mean that he is living in Glassport?
Matta - Let us establish he is claiming that he is living here.
Stetor - Is he paying head tax in Glassport or is he paying head tax in Liberty? Can this be looked into by you gentlemen?
Matta -I believe that is council sees fit it can be looked into, but again I feel that this is a personnel issue.
Stetor - Will you guys get back to me in a month or so?
DiMarco - Sure
Frances Hvozdik -1 just have one question about the towing contract for the borough. My son was involved in an accident, and the towing company charged me $60.00. As far as I know the contract with the borough is $45.00.
DiMarco - The last time I looked at the contract it was $45.00.
Hvozdik - It was during daylight and there were no extenuating circumstances.
Skerkoski - The last time I read the contract it was $45.00.
DiMarco - We will look into this and get back to you.
Bob Stecak - Did anything ever happen with those two stop signs being put in?
Matta - The stop signs will be addressed. We are in the middle of the codification and they will be addressed. It will probably be done by next month.
Stecak - There is also a piece of property that I would like to know if it has been vacated. If it has, I would like to purchase it.
Matta -I will look into it and see what I can find.
Stecak -I am also looking into the sewers. I will pay for all of the pipe, and I talked to the mayor and he indicated that maybe the borough can supply the labor.
Ksiazek -I think you need to have a meeting with the planning commission, the zoning officer and the building inspector to make sure everything you are doing is ok.
Matta -I think you can eliminate the zoning officer because right now there are not any zoning issues. That can be held later if need be.
Stecak -I am available any time you need me. If there is a problem, we can always run them up to Edmundson, the only thing that would have to be done is a pump would have to be put into the basement. I hear some of them pumps are really good.
Stetor - One more question, have you had an opportunity to look into the landlords paying the business privilege tax?
Matta - We are in the process of putting together something that would possibly have them paying some kind of fee.
Motion made by Ksiazek second by DeSue to approve February minutes.
Motion made by Uziel second by Skerkoski to move onto written reports of standing committees.
Finance Report - Terry DiMarco
Monthly Finance report given.
Motion made by Skerkoski second by DeSue to approve monthly finance report.
Motion made by Skerkoski second by Uziel to accept and pay all bills.
Sanitation, Parks and Recreation - Mike Ksiazek We are working on the Fun to be a Kids Day. We are looking for volunteers to help and work in the different areas. Flyers will be sent to different organizations and local businesses asking for donations. Third Street Park will be started this spring. As soon as the street department can start hauling dirt in again we will bring that back up to grade and start working on the park. GAA sign ups are over. I would like to thank the volunteers. They had signups every Saturday for two months. Recycling is still being picked up by the fireball the second Saturday of the month. There is also a bin at the borough garage for news paper. There is also a large dumpster for heavy metal items to be recycled. This helps us in the long run for the tonnage being dumped into the land fill. We all received a list a couple months ago of the delinquent garbage accounts. We have an ordinance on the books that states an occupancy permit cannot be issued if a landlord owes any back money. We should take him to the magistrate and put his rent into escrow until all of his bills are paid. I would like to pursue this diligently with the trash. There is a lot that is owed by landlords. I feel we can go after this a lot stronger than Keystone can.
Motion made by Ksiazek second by DeSue to invite Keystone for a meeting to aggressively pursue the issue of collecting delinquents from landlords.
Ksiazek -I think we need to start by singling out the people we can get the money out of the easiest. Looking through the delinquent list, there are a lot of names multiple times that we know are landlords.
Sewage - John DeSue Monthly sewage report given. Delinquents have dropped from 19% to 10.7% since the water company has begun collecting sewage.
Street, Light, Building - Jim Uziel Monthly street report given. The spreader on the pick-up in inoperable. It will have to be replaced before next winter. The truck can plow but cannot salt.
DiMarco - The mayor brought in some papers today with a price for a new spreader. I talked to John Palyo from TRCOG, and he is going to see what he can do for us. It would probably be a matching grant, but some is better than nothing.
Police & Ordinances - Eugene Skerkoski Monthly Meter report given.
Handicap Committee - Senator Logan has called Mr. Pierce and our signs are in, but the posts to mount them on have not yet arrived. We will have a little hold up until we get the posts. We have received our draft of the Ordinance book for review. After we review it if everything is in order it will be ok to print.
Monthly Police report given.
Monthly Juvenile report given.
Monthly Adult Arrest report given.
Fire, Water, Ambulance & TRCOG - John D'Angelo Monthly Fire report given. I have no ambulance report available this month. I met with RHC#2 and they had several concerns which have not yet been addressed. They requested a fire lane to be declared on Bridge Street at Delaware and then on Indiana for their ladder truck. When they try to get their ladder truck around, they can't when there are cars parked there. They also requested a stop sign at Delaware and Fifth Street. I almost had a close call there today. A car came flying up Pacific and I was coming off of Delaware and we almost collided. They are requesting a sign on the uphill portion of Pacific. They said two times they were on their way to a call with their lights flashing and almost had an accident. It is a definite cause for concern.
Skerkoski -I thought that was reversed. I thought we were going to remove the yield sign and put in a stop sign so that the traffic in the winter coming up Pacific can continue up the hill.
Uziel -I have to disagree. My opinion is that it would be more productive to have the stop sign on the Pacific side of the intersection. If you have the stop sign off of Delaware coming around the bend, by the time you stop and begin to pull out around the sharp bend, a car can still be coming up the hill at a high rate of speed and the stop sign would not mean a whole lot. I think the person coming up the hill has a clearer view of the traffic. When you are coming off of Delaware making the sharp right, you do not have a clear line of vision of traffic coming up the hill.
Skerkoski - When the fire trucks come up the hill, they generally cannot make it in one swing anyway. There are pros and cons to both sides. If you put the sign far enough up on Delaware, the vehicle code states that after you stop, you must proceed with caution.
D'Angelo - Just remember that the fire trucks always come up Delaware, they never come up Pacific.
Skerkoski - Why don't we stop traffic both ways. The only thing it is tough going in the winter coming up Pacific.
D'Angelo - When there is snow on the ground and the roads are slippery, no one stops at the stop sign at the top of Sixth Street so they probably wouldn't stop for that one either. It is only a block away. They are not asking for any particular way.
Skerkoski - There was a quick little study of turning that portion of Pacific into one way, but it got shot down.
Matta - If we can get the concerns of the fire companies, we can discuss them when we are going over our codification and make them a part of it. And we can then advertise it that way.
D'Angelo -I will have them write it out and draw a map so that we know exactly what they are talking about. They also are still asking about the ordinance pertaining to billing by the fire companies.
Skerkoski - We only have one and it pertains to when an insurance check is being issued it comes to the borough first to pay any outstanding taxes, sewage, etc. before being dispersed to the home owner. I received a notice of a hazard at the EMS Building where bricks were falling off of the building next door and the police had to evacuate the building for safety reasons. Currently there is no ambulance being housed in the borough. They are asking if it is safe for them to reoccupy their building.
DiMarco - The mayor went down there, and he said that the brick that fell were from the bottom of the building. He said there were only 3 or 4 brick there. He said he saw the hole that they came out of.
D'Angelo -I talked to Latanzi and he said that they had an ambulance call there and there were steps missing off of the stair treads. This needs to be addressed. There are people living on the third floor. I talked to Bosle today and told him how urgent it was that he come here and inspect this. I would like to ask Mr. Hilty if he sent a scope of work to the TRCOG for the UV system at the sewage plant.
Hilty -I spoke to Mr. Palyo and he said that it was not necessary to submit them just now. He said that if we got the matching grant we would then need the plans.
DiMarco -I know that we just received a letter from one of the agencies saying that we were denied. It was the Pennworth Grant.
D'Angelo - There is still one outstanding from DCED. I was hoping that the Pennworth would come through because that would have paid for the engineering. I met with Mr. Harris today and explained to him that his duties were going to change. I explained to him about the certifications that were required, and now he fully understands. He cannot do any kind of construction inspections. He can only enforce ordinances from now on. We need to set up a meeting with him and tell him exactly what we expect of him. I spoke to Steve Rathburn from the Dept. of the Interior and he said that very soon they will be going back up there, and the contractor agreed to remove all of the dirt behind Mrs. Joseph's house. I told him that that was initially a Dept. of Interior project when they dug around her footer and put a French drain in for her. They are going to dig it up again to make sure it is ok. After the last meeting, I sent about 20 letters to various foundations seeking money to help with operating costs for the swimming pool. I think we should have a workshop on the swimming pool very soon. I would like to get volunteers to help open the pool instead of paying people to do it. If you can eliminate paying that initial shock to help open the pool, it might be worth it.
DiMarco - There is much more than just the labor. The filter system has about 16 eyes, and there is a plastic part on each of them that needs replaced. The cost for these alone is about $900 a piece. We need to buy new cloth for the filter which costs approximately $2,000. Your wife came up with what I thought was an excellent idea. Lower the price of the pass and fill the pool with people. We need to have a meeting to work on these things. We don't want to make money, we just want it to break even. We need to set a goal, and if we cannot make this goal, then it may have to remain closed for another year.
Swimming Pool, Senior Citizens - Edward Mihoces I eat up at the Senior Citizens every day. It is only $1.50 to eat up there. There are only about 5 or 6 people there every day. I don't know why people don't eat up there, it is a real bargain. I think that would be a wonderful place for a borough building also.
Engineer - Scott Hilty. We are currently working on the Chapter 94 Reports. They are due by March 31, 2005.
Solicitor - Gary Malta Resolution No. 1 (3-15-05) - A resolution opposing the elimination of the Community Development Block Grant Program.
Motion made by Ksiazek second by D'Angelo to accept Resolution No. 1 (3-15-05).
Reading of Ordinance No. 1070 - Emergency and Municipal Services Tax Ordinance.
Matta - There will be forms available from the tax collector to be filled out by individuals who feel they will be exempt from paying this tax.
Uziel - There are many municipalities who are not exempting anyone from this tax.
Motion made by Uziel second by D'Angelo to accept Ordinance No. 1070 - EMS Tax Ordinance.
I also have a letter from the Domestic Outreach Center, it is a center that provides services for domestic violence as an alternative to being jailed. Linda Sherman, the Executive Director would like to set up a meeting to discuss the possibility of providing these services in our community so that residents do not have to travel.
DiMarco - When I spoke to her, she would like to use the Senior Citizen building one day a week for two hours in the evening. Lifespan does not seem to have a problem with them using the building.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Skerkoski to accept all reports and move on to new business.
We need to collect $5.00 from all borough officials for flowers in honor of Carol Pasinski.
The 32nd Annual Conference for the Allegheny League of Municipalities will be held at Seven Springs beginning Thursday April 7,2005 to Sunday April 10,2005.
Twin Rivers COG 28th Annual General Assembly membership meeting will be held on Thursday, March 31, 2005 at the Youghiogheny Country Club, Elizabeth. Reception will be held at 6:00 p.m. and dinner will follow at 7:00 p.m. The guest speaker will be Alien Kukovich.
Demolition properties for the CD Year 31 are as follows: 315-317 Fifth Street; 520 Broadway; 608 Maryland Avenue; 437 Erie Avenue; 406 Erie Avenue; 530 Ohio Avenue.
Motion made by Uziel second by D'Angelo to adjourn and move into Executive Session.
Submitted by: Andrea Foster
McKeesport Daily News March 16, 2005
Glassport officials take steps to get pool ready for summer
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@)dailynewsemail.com
Glassport borough officials are taking a variety of steps to get the swimming pool open this year.
At Tuesday night's council meeting, Councilman John D'Angelo said he applied for 20 grants from private foundations hoping to drum up some funds for the pool. D'Angelo said the pool doesn't need to be profitable, it just needs to break even. He suggested perhaps lowering the price of the pool pass to attract more customers. No price has been set.
Council President Terry DiMarco said another obstacle to opening the pool is several pricey parts like filters that need replaced. These repairs could cost a few thousand dollars. D'Angelo asked for volunteers to help with small labor jobs to get the pool open, such as painting. Interested persons can contact the borough office at 412-672-7400.
He also wants to get a special meeting scheduled to brainstorm how to raise money for the pool and to cut costs.
In other business, Glassport passed a $52 emergency and municipal services tax, charged to anyone who works in the borough. People who make less than $12,000 or who are under 18 will be exempt from the tax. Forms will be available from employers to prove eligibility for the exemption.
Also Tuesday night, Councilman Michael Ksiazek said the borough should start a stricter enforcement of delinquent trash fees collection. The borough has an ordinance for delinquent land lords, which allows officials to take the landlord to the district justice and have rent put in an escrow account until the debt is paid. Council will meet with its tax collector, Keystone Municipal Collections, to discuss this option.
In recreation, Ksiazek asked for volunteers for the borough's Fun to be a Kid Day, set for July 9. The event features a number of free activities for borough children. Interested persons should contact the borough.
Ksiazek also said the Third Street sitting park will be started this spring.
In other business, council adopted an ordinance opposing the elimination of Community Development Block Grants. DiMarco read in a publication the government is considering getting rid of the funds. Council wants to get other communities behind its opposition of this elimination. CDBG funds bring thousands of dollars into many communities, including Glassport, each year.
McKeesport Daily News March 18, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Questioning Glassport Web site
Readers beware! A certain Web site has recently sprung up on the Internet. I am a resident of Glassport, and I have read signs in various businesses encouraging residents to view Glassportboro.com if they want to get the truth about what is happening in the borough. I have visited it frequently in the past several weeks, and the only thing I notice on that site is that it is nothing more than a political site. I have seen very few articles pertaining to events going on in the borough, but many articles about the upcoming election.
This seems to me that this site is all about John D'Angelo and friends. None of the letters are signed so it would lead one to believe that these were written by one of the three council candidates, or maybe by Mr. D'Angelo himself. I myself have contacted the site numerous times, and not only are my articles not printed, but I don't even receive a reply. Now figure that one out.
Why don't we cut the crap and admit, Mr. D'Angelo, that this site is all about you and the upcoming election? You constantly put down the borough, when the truth of the matter is that if you look at the council, you are the one who has sat there the longest. Why is it taking you 22 years to finally decide to make a change?
If we are going to have a Web site, why don't we put the positive things about the borough on it, and you can't tell me that there aren't any. I can understand that we are having some financial woes, but what small community isn't.
Look around. I am proud to live in Glassport. While we do have our share of problems, instead of fighting why don't we work together to make it better? Maybe if the site was a little more positive, we would attract people to our town instead of turning them away.
Amanda Kelly Glassport
McKeesport Daily News March 29, 2005
Glassport man nabbed for possession charges
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsenmail.com.
A two-month investigation resulted in the arrest of a Glassport man who allegedly had $10,000 to $15,000 worth of suspected narcotics in his possession.
Working with the Allegheny County District Attorney's Narcotics Enforcement Team, Glassport police arrested Christopher Dabruzzo, 41, Monday evening. Dabruzzo is charged with possession with intent to deliver.
Glassport police Lt. Ronald Benoit said the arrest warrant was granted after months of investigation.
Inside Dabruzzo's Delaware Avenue residence, officers found one-quarter pound of suspected cocaine and three ounces of suspected marijuana along with a variety of paraphernalia, Benoit said.
The lieutenant said he is pleased with the cooperation between Glassport police and DANET. "They did a very good job and have been working hard in this area to get rid of narcotics," Benoit said.
Benoit said the department has been making progress on that goal.
No date for Dabruzzo's preliminary hearing had been set as of presstime.
McKeesport Daily News March 29, 2005
Glassport
Library volunteers noted
Glassport Library has announced its schedule of volunteers.
The library is open Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Wednesday- Donna Kurucz, Patty Gribshaw
Thursday - Dorothy Manzlak, Gail Kwolek
April 6 - Dorothy Rizzo, Leslie Morrow
April 7 - Betty Gaydos, Isabel Bishop
McKeesport Daily News March 30, 2005
Glassport to use grant funds to demolish blighted property
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrnbake@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport is preparing to demolish several blighted borough properties.
Council President Terry DiMarco said the borough recently received a grant through Twin Rivers Council of Governments for demolition. The $27,000 grant hopefully will take down five to six properties, DiMarco estimated.
DiMarco said he, council, the mayor, and the borough's code enforcer came up with a list of six properties most in need of demolition. The properties will be taken down in order of their listing as long as funding allows.
At the top of the list is 315 Fifth St., at the corner of Fifth Street and Euclid Avenue. DiMarco said the structure caught fire in 1999 and owners never repaired the damage.
Behind that property, in order, are: 520 Broadway Ave., 608 Maryland Ave., 437 Erie Ave., 406 Erie Ave. and 530 Ohio Ave.
Buildings chosen were considered deserted and unsafe and have been posted for demolition. Code Enforcer Richard Harris wrote up reports on each of the six properties, detailing their safety hazards. DiMarco said borough officials are doing everything possible to get these blighted buildings down.
Many residents have complained at council meetings about rundown properties neighboring their well-kept houses. They often ask why the particular property can't be torn down immediately. Oftentimes, DiMarco said, the problem is tracking down an out-of-town owner who's not keeping up their property. Not all of them respond to the borough's requests for property improvements. Some of them contest the borough in court.
The legal process of getting a house put on a demolition list sometimes can take years if the owner makes promises to rehabilitate the property. Regardless, DiMarco said the borough is taking steps to get to all of the properties, as funding and the law permits. "We're going after all of the bad houses. I am very adamant about this because we've got some bad properties in town," DiMarco said.
Demolitions could begin as soon as the work is contracted and the weather clears.
McKeesport Daily News March 30, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Councilman questions finances
Once again the Glassport council president and his cronies attempt to draw attention away from their atrocious management record by the use of their hired media consultant and someone named Amanda Kelly?
Their method is to attack a Web site, www.glassportboro.com, that is exposing their debacles and hope that the people will believe them and forget about the real issues.
It worked when DiMarco threatened the Web master of another Web site that was publishing Glassport's minutes with a lawsuit. They withdrew the minutes page.
Why don't they want the minutes published? It worked when I brought up these issues at a council meeting. They attacked me personally and never addressed the issues.
It didn't work when they threatened the Web master of www.glassportboro.com with a lawsuit.
FACT - They spent $50,000 on boat docks without a council vote.
FACT - They spent $150,000 without a council vote and have nothing to show for it.
FACT - They donated $500 to an organization in McKeesport without a vote of council.
FACT - They passed five unbalanced budgets after warnings of shortcomings.
FACT - They lost $15,000 in grants for demolition of blighted properties because they didn't do the paperwork.
FACT - They lost $16,000 in state pension grant money because they didn't do an audit on time. These grants should be published with the list of grants DiMarco claims credit for in a letter to the editor March 18.
FACT - Our state budget advisor warned DiMarco in February of over $18,000 in unbudgeted expenditures.
And the beat goes on! Don't be fooled by the smoke and mirrors method of finances. Look at the record, look at our town, look at our buildings. Do you like what you see?
John A. D'Angelo Glassport councilman
McKeesport Daily News April 2, 2005
Glassport business district makes comeback
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrnbaker@dailynewsemail.com
Where there used to be boarded up storefronts, there are shoppers. Where there used to be empty offices, there are customers and clients. Where there used to be blight, there's business along Glassport's Monongahela Avenue.
In the past few months, several businesses have popped up along the borough's main thoroughfare, breathing new life into the downtown shopping district. Shoppers looking for anything from candles and gifts to unusual records to a new tattoo can find it along Monongahela Avenue. They even can buy a house or get their taxes done.
Andrea Foster and sister Susan Bender own Candles that Make Scents at 717 Monongahela Ave. They took over the shop when its former owner decided to sell it because of her allergies. The women expanded the craft and candle shop and are considering remodeling the storefront to allow more room for a possible bridal section. Foster said the location has been greatly accommodating. "We have a lot of exposure, with the post office and tattoo shop nearby," Foster explained.
As Monongahela Avenue fills up more and more with shops, Foster has seen more and more customers come through her doors. "The more businesses, the more people they bring," Foster added.
K & S Real Estate Inc. recently expanded from its Whitaker office to a vacant storefront at 538 Monongahela Ave. The new location gives K & S the opportunity to bring its "neighborhood realtor" appeal to a whole new set of home buyers and sellers, Broker Steve Chupinka said. "It was an under-served area," he said, "and a great location."
Chupinka said he liked the business visibility Monongahela Avenue offered.
Monongahela Avenue also has welcomed Out of the Ordinary Music and Gifts and a new owner of a financial service company, Weber Financial Service, in recent months.
Glassport officials are pleased with the results. Council President Terry DiMarco said the borough has been working with state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-West Mifflin, to get new businesses into town. Officials said many of the buildings can be acquired at a good price and just need a little TLC.
Councilman John D'Angelo agreed. "We've been trying to do this for some time," D'Angelo explained. "The malls took away a lot of our business in the past, but now there's a trend for shopping without having to park in large lots." That trend suits Glassport perfectly, D'Angelo said. Customers often can park right in front of the store where they plan to shop with the on-street parking.
Recently, D'Angelo added, the borough secured a $40,000 grant to construct an off-street parking lot to add even more convenience for shoppers. Although the location still is being scouted, it could go in between Sixth and Seventh streets where an old building burned to the ground, he said.
DiMarco said a beauty shop and another business could spring up along Monongahela Avenue before too long. The council president said borough officials are willing to help out prospective businesses however they can and will walk the owners through borough regulations and ordinances.
McKeesport Daily News April 4, 2005
Letter to the Editor
In Glassport: DiMarco rebuts D'Angelo
First of all, Mr. D'Angelo, I can't afford a hired media consultant as you suggest I have. I live on a budget just like many of our town's people do. This is what makes me spend my time trying to find ways to keep our taxes down.
I, also like you, don't know an Amanda Kelly. Here are a list of your memory lapses:
1. Council voted not to let anyone publish excerpts of minutes, but if they were to publish minutes in their entirety they could. I did not threaten Mr. Richard Uher, but our solicitor did contact him.
2. I was not responsible for whatever was spent on boat docks.
3. When the $150,000 was taken to pay bills and the tax anticipation loan, I was just a council person and not president.
4. Your political signs are in violation of Borough Ordinance 1061, an ordinance that you voted for.
5. When $500 was donated to an organization in McKeesport, I was again just a council person like you.
6. Losing $16,000 in pension money was not my fault. Again I was a council person just like you.
Mr. D'Angelo, I could go on and on, but the people must know that you were senior council person when all this went down and as a new guy on the block I should have been able to learn from you, but all I learned was that you are the kind of politician I don't want to become. You blame everybody but yourself and you were on board for 22 years.
You are a very special kind of person, you never give up on pinning the blame on everyone else, thus your actions make you the politician everyone talks about on Election Day. The famous words, "Why should I vote, what good is it?"
This makes me mad when we have hard-working politicians doing great jobs for our communities. I would be remiss if I didn't mention their names - Rep. Ken Ruffing, Sen. Sean Logan, Rep. Mark Gergely.
I will not rebut your untruths or memory lapses throughout this campaign because my time is put forth trying to help our community instead of wasting time on you.
One final note, when the Glassport Democratic Committee recently held their endorsement meeting, a committee of which you are a member, even you voted to endorse me as mayor.
See, you do know who the best candidate is.
Terry DiMarco President of Council Glassport
McKeesport Daily News April 4, 2005
Glassport
Stolen vehicle recovered
Police said they recovered a stolen vehicle Sunday night at the Patterson property. The vehicle was reported stolen from Lemon Alley earlier that day.
Hit-and-run reported
A resident reported that someone hit his vehicle and left the scene Sunday night. The resident said the vehicle was parked along the 700 block of N. Monongahela Avenue.
Police continue to investigate.
McKeesport Daily News April 9, 2005
Mayor hopefuls pledge to tackle blight
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
At almost every Glassport council meeting, residents raise concerns about blighted properties around the borough. Whether it be a rundown house neighboring theirs or an abandoned building overflowing with trash, residents make it clear they want something done to beautify the borough.
The two Democratic candidates for mayor, John D'Angelo and Terry DiMarco, say they have a plan to spruce up Glassport if elected to the post. Both currently are borough councilmen and are looking to succeed Mayor Thomas Urbanski, who decided not to seek re-election. No Republicans have filed.
The candidates agree that Glassport has a problem with rundown properties and ordinance violations.
"It you look at this town, it's in deplorable condition," D'Angelo said. "We need to see more serious cooperation between the police, the building inspector and our new ordinance enforcer." If elected, D'Angelo said he plans to make sure all borough ordinances are enforced, whether it pertains to high grass or a boarded-up storefronts. He said he'd like to work with owners of blighted properties to see if the buildings can be rehabilitated.
DiMarco said he would continue battling blight with code enforcement and demolition. Five eyesore properties are slated to be razed this spring, which were chosen based on the greatest concern for public safety, DiMarco said. He also wants to improve borough roadways to make the town more livable for residents and accessible for outsiders. DiMarco said council secured a $35,000 grant from state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-West Mifflin, for road rehab and is trying to get one to fix up roadway:, such as Ola Avenue.
One Ola resident said he has to walk half a mile to get his mail because the road is in such poor shape the mail carrier won't drive on it, DiMarco said.
D'Angelo also said he'd try to bring residents into the borough with new housing. He said the old Patterson property, a 100-acre site, would be a good spot on which a developer can build.
Both councilmen said Glassport's downtown area along Monongahela Avenue needs to be improved.
DiMarco said he's talking to people considering opening businesses about moving in to downtown Glassport. "We want to clean up the main street altogether," he said.
D'Angelo said he strictly would enforce the borough's storefront ordinance which requires vacated downtown businesses to have the appearance of occupancy. As mayor, D'Angelo said he would ask business owners for their input. "They're the backbone of this community," he said.
McKeesport Daily News April 12, 2005
Glassport candidates target financial health
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
The newest members of Glassport council to be elected in November will join current members in the task of rejuvenating the borough's finances.
Each candidate, some former members of council, one a current member and a few newcomers, has his or her own plan for tightening up the budget and increasing revenues.
Running for three council seats are Jim Morningstar, Sherry Marini, Jamie Colecchi, Paul Trunzo, Eugene Skerkoski and James Foster.
Skerkoski, 63, current councilman and former police chief, said delinquent taxpayers are a huge source of trouble in the borough. Skerkoski said approximately $300,000 in back taxes and fees are owed to Glassport. Collecting that money, Skerkoski said, along with frugal spending, will put the budget back on tr ack. "We have to pursue delinquents very aggressively or we'll never be able to (get the budget in line)," Skerkoski said.
Former councilman James Foster, 42, agreed that spending needs to be reduced in the budget needs to have reduced spending. "We have to try to keep a line on the costs without sacrificing basic services like police, fire and the street department," Foster explained. He also would like to help bring new businesses into the borough.
Marini, 55, also thinks the fire and police departments should be more of a priority. If she's elected, Marini said she'll work hard to keep quality police officers on the borough's force and try to help the borough's two volunteer fire companies make ends meet. Marini said borough officials also need to be accountable for their actions. "It's the taxpayers' dollars (they are spending) and we have to work together for the financial betterment of our town," Marini said. "Unfortunately, it's going to take some time to get us back on our feet." Marini also would like to go after delinquent taxpayers and bring new businesses into the borough.
Morningstar, 53, and Colecchi, 31, both agreed that you can't spend more than you bring in to have a balanced budget. Colecchi called financial management the most glaring problem in the borough. "You need to prepare your budget with real numbers and you can only budget the numbers that you historically collect," Colecchi said. Colecchi also noted that a budget should be prepared with foresight, taking into consideration upcoming expenditures and projects in years to come.
Morningstar said council needs to have an accurate account of its revenues. "You want to have a balanced budget and we don't necessarily need to raise taxes," Morningstar began, "but we certainly have to watch our spending." Morningstar was on council for four years and previously was the borough's auditor.
Trunzo, 43, said that his goals, if elected, are to increase businesses in the borough, fix roads, and provide additional activities for young people.
McKeesport Daily News April 14, 2005
Glassport
Spring clean-up planned
Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 of Glassport is taking donations of household items, which can be dropped off at the fire station at Ninth Street and Monongahela Avenue.
Democrats host open house
Glassport's Democratic Committee will host a grand opening for its new headquarters Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. Residents are encouraged to see the new facility, located at 704 Monongahela Ave., and meet the candidates.
Voters will be registered and coffee and doughnuts will be served.
Poetry day planned
Michael Ksiazek, chairman of parks and recreation, announces PoetryAppreciation Day April 21 at 6 p.m. at the Glassport Library, located at the corner of Fifth and Monongahela avenues. Poets are sought to read their poetry in honor of Poetry Awareness Month in Glassport. They will be able to read for three to five minutes and poetry must be suitable for all ages with no profanity. Readers also are welcome to read their favorite poems as long as they credit the author. Glassport Women's Club will be on hand to assist with all inquiries.
Fun to be a kid day set
Glassport's parks and recreation committee will sponsor Fun to be a Kid Day July 9. Volunteers are welcomed to plan and work at the event.
McKeesport Daily News April 14, 2005
Glassport to get one of nation's largest Rite Aids
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport soon will welcome a new and improved Rite Aid.
The national drug store chain plans to move its Monongahela Avenue store to a vacant lot on the site of the former Copperweld office building and Johnny K's Lounge along Ninth Street. Rite Aid will build a new store more than twice the size of the current location.
Reportedly, only one store in Ohio is as large as the one planned for Glassport.
It will include a drive-through window for picking up prescriptions and will be accessible from both Ohio Avenue and Ninth Street.
Council met with Rite Aid officials this week to discuss the plan, which now will head to the borough's planning commission to work out a few minor zoning variances.
Council President Terry DiMarco said council is excited to work with the company to bring the new Rite Aid into town.
Councilman John D'Angelo agreed. "It's a great day for Glassport," he said. "That property has been dormant for years so it will help improve blight and create a space on the main street for another business." D'Angelo said
Rite Aid representatives estimated a late summer or early fall opening for the new store.
DiMarco said the old Rite Aid could be considered for a new site for the borough building if other options don't pan out.
Rite Aid Corp. is one of the nation's leading drugstore chains with approximately 3,400 stores in 28 states and the District of Columbia.
McKeesport Daily News April 14, 2005
Glassport AL Post seeking veterans
Glassport American Legion Post 443 is planning its annual Memorial Day Ceremonies.
The event is slated Max, 29 beginning at 6 p.m.
The post is seeking names of living veterans who served during World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, Afghanistan and Iraq and still reside in Glassport.
Additional information may be secured by contacting the post home at 412-678-6621 or by mail at 417 Monongahela Ave., Glassport, 15045.
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING OF GLASSPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL April 19, 2005
The Regular Monthly Meeting of the Glassport Borough Council was called to order. Roll Call: D'Angelo, present; DeSue, present; Ksiazek, present; Mihoces, absent; Skerkoski, present; Uziel, present; DiMarco, present; Mayor Urbanski, absent; Motion made by Skerkoski second by DeSue to hear citizens comments.
Dorothy Brownfield - 641 Allegheny Avenue - The party that was supposed to be here is not here. There was talk of my son by the other party who was supposed to bring pictures and present them here tonight, and I am just here to defend my son.
Steve Trumpe - 717 Peach Alley -1 would like to get a key for the property at Seventh and Delaware. I want to continue to take care of the area. I would also like to get a no litter sign for the fence along the area. This is a good place for the kids to play.
DiMarco - We will get a new lock and get you a key. We appreciate all that you do for the kids up there.
Trumpe - The main thing is the littering and swearing up there. We would like for that to stop and we think the signs will be helpful.
Ernie Kantorczyk - Naomi Street - What is the status of the pump station?
DiMarco -1 was up at the pump station a couple of weeks ago with Mr. Finneran, and there was some stench coming out of there. I contacted Mr. Hilty and he will explain what he did up there.
Hilty - When I went up there I talked to the gentlemen at the plant and we are doing some operation and maintenance up there more often to see if that helps. One was the cycling of the pumps so the sewage is not staying in there as long as it had been. We are having the vactor in next week and both pump stations will be cleaned out. They are also going to lower the odor block in case that is what you are smelling. If this does not take care of the problem, there are other chemicals we can purchase additional chemicals.
Kantorczyk - Who is paying for all of this? DiMarco - We are going to pay for it.
Kantroczyk - Maybe somewhere down the line, it was the engineer's problem and we can come back on them. When this was designed, there was no school there. Now that there is the school, we have problems.
DeSue - Does the school contribute to this problem? I just know that during the summer when school is out, there is not problem.
Hilty - That pump station was built with additional capacity so that if there was any new development it would handle it. Maybe not specifically the school.
Kantorczyk - The maintenance they are doing up there must not be working.
Hilty - They are doing routine maintenance along with some additional maintenance to help alleviate the problem.
Kantorczyk - Do you have the same maintenance on the other pump station? Hilty -I cannot answer that question. I do not keep track of it.
DeSue - They have routine maintenance there also, but we are doing some additional work on this pump station to address the complaints we have been having up there.
Mary Jane Stanczyk - Along the same lines, I want to know when something is going to be done about this. I had to complain in order to get anything done. This is not the first time I have complained about this. I have lived there all my life and I pay taxes, and my parents and grandparents paid taxes and I have to put up with this? I want to enjoy my home up there.
DeSue -I believe that we are doing everything we can to resolve the problem.
Stanczyk - When are you going to file a petition with the county to take my name off of the property?
Matta -I believe that we have already started that process.
Stanczyk -I checked with the county and as of March 30th it is still in my name. I also have another question. How do I go about getting the money back for the taxes I have paid for the last four years?
Matta -I believed we had an agreement that you still did own the property at that time. I suggest you contact your attorney and have him contact me.
Skerkoski - Can we track what the school is actually putting into our system compared to what they estimated we were going to use.
Matta - Back to Ms. Stanczyk's question, if you are talking about the property that is involved in the settlement, you owned the property until the matter was settled.
Stanczyk - The Board of Viewers told me that the day you put that shovel into my property, you owned the property.
Matta -I will check into this whole issue and I will get back to you in a few days. Motion made by Skerkoski second by Uziel to resume regular order of business.
FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION - Terry DiMarco Monthly finance report given.
After receiving a call from a resident on Ola Avenue, I took a ride up to take a look at the road. The road is pretty bad. The mail boxes had to be moved to the top of the hill because the mail truck will not go down it. We are going to look into possibly paving the road this summer. I also am looking into acquiring a skate board park for the borough. We are going to receive a grant from Senator Logan and I talked to Mike Ksiazek and I did a little bit of research into this. I went to Cheapskates near Nigro's and they ended up donating all of the equipment they have except for two pieces to us. They want an additional $600.00 for these additional pieces. I spoke to Mr. Uziel about the street department installing this and he is willing to do it. We met with Rite Aid in regard to the new building they want to put up in the old Johnny K's lot. There were two zoning issues, and after I met with the zoning officer he assured me that there would be no problem with them. Lt. Benoit and myself also took the developer around and showed him some other properties we have available and he was pretty receptive to several of the properties and he is going to try to get some developers interested.
CHC#1 would like a piece of land from the borough to build a new fire company. We are willing to give them the land if they include a police station in with it.
Motion made by Skersoski second by Uziel to appoint DiMarco and DeSue to the West to West Coalition Board of Governors.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Ksiazek to transfer land behind the borough building as per the conditions in their letter.
Uziel - We need to know specifically what lot numbers we are going to give to them. We need to make sure it is plot out right .
Skerkoski -I would also like it to state in the agreement if #2 would like to join in as long as they meet all of the requirements they be permitted to do so. We don't want them to come back and say they were not included.
DiMarco -I would like Mr. Matta and our engineer involved with putting together the agreement.
Motion made by Skersoski second by DeSue to approve the minutes of March. Motion made by Uziel second by Ksiazek to approve the monthly financial report. Motion made by Uziel second by Skerkoski to pay all bills.
SANITATION, PARKS & RECREATION - Mike Ksiazek Fun to be a Kid Day will be held on July 9,2005. We are asking for donations from the local businesses. If you are interested in donating time or setting up a booth, there will be a meeting on Wednesday, April 27,2005 at 6:30 P.M. in council chambers.
April is poetry awareness month and on Thursday, April 21,2005 in the Glassport Library we are going to have a couple of guest poets coming in from Pitt or CMU. All citizens are encouraged to come and read their own poems. We have several students from St. Joseph's coming to read. We encourage everyone to attend.
The Third Street parking is coming along. The grading is just about done. Hopefully the gazebo construction will begin shortly.
The boat docks will be put in this year, and we will charge a rental price of $125.00 for the season. This will hopefully encourage a lot of people to dock their boats there.
RHC#2 is sponsoring a ladies soft ball team they are soliciting donations to rehab the field. They are working with the GAA to coordinate things.
Delinquent garbage collection from Keystone is $1,986.16 for the month of March.
SEWAGE - John DeSue Monthly sewage report given.
STREET, LIGHT, BUILDING & PROPERTY - Jim Uziel Monthly street report given.
I would like to comment on the boat docks. No matter what happened in the past about whether or not we should have put them in in the first place, they are there and we might as well utilize them. I think the price we are charging this year is good and hopefully it will encourage people to dock their boats there.
Also, I am happy we gave the land to the firemen. It is nice to see the new Rite Aid coming in, and the firemen committing to new construction. This points our borough in the right direction. I would also like to give a comment on the new assessments coming out. A lot of them are going to increase drastically. On the other hand, a lot of properties are coming down in their assessed value. While our current County Executive is pushing to put a cap of 4% on the increased assessments, there is not going to be a cap on how much a property can be decreased in assessed value. If you had a batch of properties that have decreased in value, there is no limit on the amount of decrease. We have to keep this in mind for our next budget session and have to be careful in how we set our mileage rates.
POLICE, ORDINANCES & MAYOR'S REPORTS - Eugene Skerkoski Monthly meter report given. The solicitor has informed me that the second draft of the ordinances has been sent to Keystate Publishing and we are waiting for them to send the revised copy back to us.
Monthly police report given. Monthly adult arrest report given. Monthly juvenile report given.
FIRE, WATER, AMBULANCE, TRCOG - John D'Angelo
RHC#2 is still requesting a fire lane on Bridge Street between Indiana Avenue and Delaware Avenue. They have also submitted a partial equipment list for 2005. They would like to know when they can order this equipment.
Monthly ambulance report given.
I sent out 20 requests to grant foundations looking for money to open the swimming pool. The replies were not favorable. I received four back that were undeliverable. The Benedum Foundation said they would look into it. The Heinz Foundation said the same. The United States Steel Foundation gave me an application to be filled out, and I got three flat out refusals.
Nick Sorrentino -I would like to reiterate on the subject of Reliance Hose, we will leave the doors open to them, but it would not be a merger, it would be a consolidation.
DiMarco - At this time I would like to recognize Sam Piazza from Boy Scout Troop 57 who is working on his Eagle Scout Award. He will receive his Life Award at the next parents meeting in Port Vue. His project will be the landscaping and shrubbery at the Third Street Park under the direction of Michael Ksiazek, Chairman of Parks and Recreation. After the initial planting, Sam will be responsible for making sure the plants are watered throughout the season. I would like to congratulate you and wish you the best of luck with your project.
SOLICITOR - Gary Matta
Motion made by Ksiazek second by DeSue to designate the area of Bethlehem Road as a Parks and Recreation area.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Ksiazek to accept Resolution No. 1 (4-19-05) Designating the Chief Administration officer of Municipal Pension State Aid and Foreign Fire Insurance Tax.
ENGINEER - Scott Hilty
The Chapter 94 Report has been completed and sent to the proper authorities.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Skerkoski to accept all reports and move onto Communications.
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Ksiazek to have the retired and terminated non-union/non service employees pension allocations returned to them and wipe the record clean as recommended by the Police Pension Auditor and Mockenhaupt, including Mary Lou Burns, Terry Woytovich and Rosemary Bradley.
Motion made by Skersoski second by DeSue to put an advertisement in the paper for a new building inspector.
Yes - 6 Opposed - 1 (John D'Angelo)
Motion made by D'Angelo second by Ksiazed to pay all bills. Motion made by Ksiazek second by DeSue to adjourn.
Submitted by: Andrea Foster Assistant Borough Secretary
McKeesport Daily News April 19, 2005
Glassport women slate Thursday meeting plans
April meeting of the Glassport Women's Club will take place Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Glassport Library. Donna Kurucz will preside and the Club Collect will be read by Sandy Urbanski.
Reporting will be Betty Gaydos, corresponding and recording secretary; Dorothy Rizzo, treasurer; and Anne Dzurko, library coordinator.
The library board of directors and trustees will meet April 26 at 2 p.m. in the library.
McKeesport Daily News April 20, 2005
Glassport approves sale of borough land to Citizen Hose Co.
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport's Citizen Hose Co. No. 1 soon will have a new site. At Tuesday night's meeting, council unanimously approved the sale of three acres of unused borough land to the fire company for $1. The new fire station, along with a new a banquet and social hall and off-street parking, will be built just below the borough building.
Council stipulated the new hall must include a new police station. The borough has been considering options for moving its borough offices and police station in past months.
Fire Chief Wayne Lewis said the company is excited to break ground on the new building. Its current hall dates back more than 40 years. "The membership is ready to move forward," Lewis said.
Company President Nick Sorrentino thanked the borough for its support and said work could begin on the new building as early as this year.
Councilmen agreed the plan would be a step in the right direction for the borough.
Councilman Jim Uziel said the new hall and a new Rite Aid will spark life in Glassport. "It's a sign of a developing town to see construction going on," Uziel said. The borough's current Rite Aid will move to a new, larger Ninth Street location in upcoming months.
In other business, council discussed the controversial borough boat docks. Some councilmen have questioned why the docks were built in the first place. This year, the docks will be rented out for $125 each for the season, something councilmen called a "grand re-opening price." Contact the borough at 412-672-7400 for more information. There are about a dozen spaces available for rental.
Also Tuesday night, Council President Terry DiMarco discussed using part of a $20,000 grant from state Sen. Sean Logan, D-Monroeville, to construct a small outdoor skate area in a borough park. DiMarco said a local skate place was willing to sell the borough a large amount of ramps and other equipment for $600, a fraction of the price.
Councilman John D'Angelo said he continues to receive correspondence about potential grant money for opening the borough swimming pool this summer. D'Angelo applied for 20 private grants and said several groups are considering the request.
McKeesport Daily News April 22, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Two men were cited for disorderly conduct recently, police said.
Chris Rager, no age or address available, was cited along the 500 block of Vermont Avenue Saturday.
Scott Kocsis, 27, of Elizabeth, was cited along Peach Alley Wednesday.
McKeesport Daily News April 23, 2005
Demolition set for run-down homes
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Six Glassport houses will be torn down as part of a borough demolition project.
Council President Terry DiMarco said all six demolitions will be aid for with funds from a $27,000 grant from Twin Rivers Council of Governments.
The properties scheduled to be razed include 315 Fifth St., 520 Broadway Ave., 608 Maryland Ave., 437 Erie Ave., 406 Erie Ave. and 530 Ohio Ave.
DiMarco said the houses were chosen after a careful review based on the level of hazard the building presented.
The council president said the Fifth Street property caught fire in 1999 and hasn't been repaired. Now the dilapidated structure sits between tidy homes.
The Broadway property has a caved in roof which is putting pressure on the inside ceilings, DiMarco said.
The other properties are in various states of disrepair, he added. "A couple of these should've been torn down years ago," DiMarco said. "It's taken a lot of work." Often, he added, the problem is tracking down an outof-town owner who's not keeping up their property.
Not all of them respond to the requests for improvements and some of them contest the borough in court. The legal process of getting a house put on a demolition list can take years if the owner makes promises to rehabilitate the property.
DiMarco said the demolitions could begin as soon as the weather permits.
He thanked Twin Rivers COG for approving the fund-ing I'm really happy about all of them coming down and I'm sure everyone else living around them will be just as happy," DiMarco said. "It'll make our town look a lot better."
DiMarco said council is working on a plan to allow the neighbor of a demolished dilapidated home to purchase the property for a reduced price. He said the problem is many properties are put up for sale at the assessed value, which includes the home that was demolished. If the vacant land was sold to the neighbor for a discounted price, the property would be back on the tax rolls and off of the borough's list for upkeep.
McKeesport Daily News April 26, 2005
Glassport UM Church plans chicken dinner
Glassport United Methodist Church, 501 Ohio Ave., will sponsor a stuffed chicken breast dinner Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. Dinners are $7 per adult and $4.50 per child.
The menu will feature stuffed chicken breast, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, applesauce, dessert and beverage. Additional information and tickets may be obtained by calling Vina March at 412678-8312.
McKeesport Daily News April 27, 2005
Glassport
Firefighters to meet
Glassport Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 will host a special meeting for members Saturday at noon at the fire hall to discuss the new building.
Library volunteers noted
Glassport Library is open Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Today, Ann Dzurko and Nelly Sherman will volunteer.
Thursday, Bernice Palmiero and Leslie Morrow are scheduled.
May 4, Donna Kurucz and Isabel Bishop will volunteer.
May 5, Dorothy Manzlak and Gail Kwolek are scheduled.
Winners announced
Frank and Gail Kwolek of McKeesport were chosen as this year's winners of Weber Financial's free tax return giveaway.
McKeesport Daily News April 27, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Questioning Glassport headquarters
Could things be any more hypocritical in Glassport? Obviously there is an election in a few weeks, but one cannot help wonder what the "endorsed Democrat" ticket is doing right in front of the taxpayers' eyes.
These folks are using a "headquarters" on the main street of Glassport. Had an "opening rally," which was attended by only members of their group. These people stand out front of these headquarters and act like they are king of the hill, but you will never see an honest volunteer.
That is fine, but what strikes me is that these candidates are campaigning on collecting delinquent taxes in the borough as their solution to bring Glassport out of financial chaos. That is fine as well, but what about a spending plan that would address the problem that got them there?
Why do I say that this is hypocritical? Well, the "headquarters" that are being used by this group is seriously delinquent in its own taxes!!! How can these people purport to the public that they will be tough on collecting taxes when they are using a building that is part of the problem in Glassport?
Anybody can check these facts for themselves . I took the liberty to do so. They certainly went from being the "nickname ticket" straight to the "hypocrite ticket" in the taxpayers' eyes. How fair is that to the hardworking taxpayers in this borough?
Jamie Colecchi Glassport
McKeesport Daily News April 29, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Glassport's D'Angelo responds
This letter is in response to one written by Terry DiMarco in Readers' Viewpoint.
Mr. DiMarco, your chairman Jim Foster announced that a media consultant was made available to endorsed candidates at no cost. You attended that meeting. If you are not using him, maybe you should be. And you say that I have memory lapses?
You say that you live on a budget. I hope you balance it better than the last two you passed for Glassport. You say you were not responsible for money spent on boat docks. You sat on council when I brought up the runaway spending. Why didn't you join us in stopping it? Why didn't you join us in preventing the wasting of revenues?
You could have stood up and been counted against this useless waste of borough money, Jim Morningstar and I did. That money could have solved our problems at the same time, but instead, it was spent and we have nothing to show for it.
It seems to me that in the past four years that you claim to have been part of the borough, we have sunk to our lowest status in historv.
You spent two years supporting Council President Bob Stefanic who started the plunge and then you became council presirient and continued the downward spiral. Just look at the record. It tells it all. Look at the borough!
You are right, I have been here for 22 years and your watch is the worst shape we have ever been in. We are in financial turmoil. The borough is in a state of decay. And all you can say is "I wasn't in charge" or "not my fault" or "I was just a councilman."
By the way, at the Democratic endorsement, I voted for due process, not for your endorsement If you think I voted for you dream on.
John A. D'Angelo Glassport councilman
McKeesport Daily News April 30, 2005
Glassport
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
210 Fifth Ave.
Sunday - Intercessory prayer and coffee cafe, 8:30 a.m.; Sunday School, 9:30 a.m.; service and Super Church, 10:30; and evening celebration service, 7 p.m.
Monday- Prayer meeting, 6 p.m.; and Junior Youth, 7.
Wednesday -Adult Bible study and Youth Group meeting, 7 p.m.
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
614 Michigan Ave.
Sunday - Sunday School, 9:30 a.m.; preaching service, 10:45; and afternoon fellowship, 1 p.m.
Wednesday - Senior breakfast at Eagles Landing, 10 a.m.; and MBA, 7:30 p.m.
FIRST BAPTIST
519 Ohio Ave.
Sunday - Sunday School, coffee and fellowship, 9:45 a.m.; Bible study, 10; service with Pastor JoAnn Kelly, 11; and service in the chapel of Kane Regional Center, 2:30 p.m.
GLASSPORT UNITED METHODIST
501 Ohio Ave.
Sunday - Sunday School, 10:15 a.m.; and service with the Rev. Thomas D. Carr, 11.
Monday through Friday - Preschool.
Wednesday - Kid's craft night, 6 p.m.; and Bible study, 7.
Thursday - Youth fellowship, 6:30 p.m.
ST. JOHN LUTHERAN
641 Vermont Ave. Sunday - Service with Judith Phelps, 11 a.m.
QUEEN OF THE ROSARY
530 Michigan Ave., Glassport
Saturday - Mass, 5 p.m.
Sunday - Masses, 9 and 11 a.m. Monday - Mass, 8 a.m.; and confessions daily at 7:30 a.m.
McKeesport Daily News May 2, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Countryman's residency questioned
Once again it's political season and the candidates are asking for our support. One in particular is Teresa Countryman for school board of South Allegheny.
On the Web site at Glassportboro.com, Mrs. Countryman states she is married to Glassport Police Officer (Shane) Countryman. Mrs. Countryman also goes on to explain that she is a lifelong resident of Liberty and she recently had an opportunity to purchase the house she grew up in, and has decided to raise her family in Liberty.
This brings us to the controversy in Glassport of whether Officer Countryman is a resident of the borough, because a full-time officer must be a resident.
Officer Countryman does maintain an address in Glassport, but maintaining an address does not mean one is a resident.
This issue would never have been brought up to Mrs. Countryman if she would have not mentioned it on the Web site.
Mrs. Countryman is asking the voters to trust her with their children's education and elect her to school board.
Well, maybe we can begin to trust our political leaders if they tell use the truth. Mrs. Countryman, is your husband a resident of Glassport or Liberty? Is this what we want to teach our children, that we may skirt the law by some technicality?
Mickey Stetor Glassport
(Editor's note: Shane Countryman said be maintains a residence in and pays taxes to Glassport.)
McKeesport Daily News May 4, 2005
Glassport
Youth arrested
A 16-year-old Lincoln male was arrested for three counts of theft by unlawful taking, three counts of receiving stolen property, and one count of criminal trespass after an investigation by Glassport and Liberty police, police said.
The youth reportedly stole two vehicles and a firearm last month.
McKeesport Daily News May 6, 2005
Glassport man charged in 2003 McKeesport pedestrian death
By DAVID WHIPKEY Daily News Staff Writer dwhipkey@dailynewsemail.com
McKeesport police have arrested a Glassport man in connection with a fatal traffic incident in 2003.
Police said Robert G. Nemeth, 36, is charged with accidents involving death or personal injury while not properly licensed for his role in a vehicle/pedestrian collision on Dec. 15, 2003.
McKeesport Magisterial District Judge Thomas Brletic set a preliminary hearing for Monday at 1:30 p.m.
Bail was set at $100,000 unsecured, and the defendant was released pending the court date.
Brletic said Nemeth voluntarily surrendered to police Thursday.
He will be represented by White Oak attorney Barry Palkovitz.
The incident killed area resident Albert Forgash, 84, of McKeesport. Police said Forgash was found lying in the roadway at the intersection of Rebecca Street and W. Fifth Avenue in the vicinity of the Elbow Room restaurant at 5:44 p.m.
The accident forced the closure of W. Fifth Avenue during the height of the evening rush.
Forgash was transported by medical helicopter to a Pittsburgh hospital where he died the next morning.
According to a police affidavit, detectives spoke with Nemeth, who was operating the 1994 Chevrolet truck involved in the accident.
A check through dispatch later showed Nemeth's operating privilege had been suspended at the time of the incident, the affidavit said.
McKeesport Daily News May 7, 2005
Police crack down on off-road vehicle users
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
If they see you, they will stop you.
Glassport police are on the lookout for people illegally driving dirt bikes, scooters, ATVs and similar vehicles on borough sidewalks and roadways. Chief Howard Kifer said many borough residents and officials have approached him with concerns about ATV drivers who speed carelessly up and down borough alley ways.
Kifer has instructed his officers to pull over all such vehicles they catch on roadways and sidewalks. The chief said he wants to get the vehicles off roadways before someone gets hurt. "If they are caught, they will be cited and towed," Kifer said.
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said ATVs may be operated only on streets and highways designated and posted as an ATV road by the government agency with jurisdiction over that roadway. DCNR said it also is illegal to operate such vehicles on private property without the owner's permission. Riders may, however, drive ATVs on personal property. When operating an ATV on approved public property, drivers must have a certificate of registration for the vehicle, proof of liability insurance and a registration plate.
A valid safety certificate is required for those ages 10 to 15 if riding away from parents' or guardians' property. Small motorcycles, minibikes, pocket bikes, and motorized scooters also have caused alarm in Glassport.
It is illegal in Pennsylvania to operate motor scooters on public roadways and sidewalks. To be legally operated on the road, the motor scooter must be registered, inspected, and insured. Most scooters, however, do not have the equipment requirements to pass inspection, according to Pennsylvania State police.
McKeesport Daily News May 10, 2005
Glassport resident's charges hinge on coroner's opinion
By DAVID WHIPKEY Daily News StaffWriter dwhipkey@dailynewsemail.com
McKeesport Magisterial District Judge Thomas Brletic said a representative from Allegheny County Coroner's Office is needed to assist in determining if the 2003 death of Albert Forgash, 84, of McKeesport, was the result of a vehicle/pedestrian collision.
Glassport resident Robert Nemeth, 36, was arrested and charged last week with accidents involving death or personal injury while not properly licensed in connection with a traffic incident at the intersection of W. Fifth Avenue and Rebecca Street Dec. 15, 2003.
Brletic postponed his preliminary hearing Monday until June 6, pending testimony from a representative from the coroner's office. "We need someone here that can testify that the accident caused Mr. Forgash's death," Brletic said. "I don't think the police officer testifying is qualified to do that."
McKeesport Police Officer Mark Rayman testified he interviewed Nemeth at the scene of the accident.
A police affidavit said Nemeth was operating a blue 1994 Chevrolet Blazer at the time of the accident.
Rayman testified an investigation showed Nemeth was driving tinder suspension at the time of the accident.
Forgash was transported to a Pittsburgh-area hospital via medical helicopter. He was pronounced dead the following morning.
Nemeth was released on $100,000 unsecured bail last week.
McKeesport Daily News May 11, 2005
Glassport
Building inspector needed
Glassport is seeking proposals for a building inspector/code enforcement officer. Candidates must be certified under the Uniform Construction Code.
Applications must be turned in to the borough office between 8 a.m. ad 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Call 412-6727400 for more information.
McKeesport Daily News May 14, 2005
Man, 46, charged in Glassport burglary
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
With the help of some keen neighbors, Glassport police nabbed a man they say moved into a home while its owners were away.
Robert Dunseath, 46, allegedly broke into a home along N. Monongahela Avenue in Glassport after realizing that its owners had been away for awhile. While living in the home for about a week, Dunseath stole and sold many items from the home, including a television, jewelry, firearms, and copper piping, police said.
The family reportedly came home and found that the door had been kicked in and their house had been burglarized. Several neighbors were able to provide information to police and that led to Dunseath's arrest. He was charged with burglary, criminal trespass, receiving stolen property and conspiracy.
Charges of conspiracy and burglary are pending against two other suspects in the case. Officers Cliff LaFever and Phil Larcinese led the investigation and reportedly recovered many of the items.
LaFever said police always appreciate tips from the public. "The citizens really helped and gave a lot of information," he said.
McKeesport Daily News May 17, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Two people were cited for disorderly conduct Saturday. Police said Susan Farrally, 20, of Glassport, and Carli Cushey, 19, of McKeesport, caused a disturbance along Peach Alley.
Public intoxication noted
Christie Hailstone, 30, of Liberty, was cited for public intoxication Saturday along Monongahela Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News May 19, 2005
Glassport Women's Club planning annual dinner
Glassport Women's Club will host its annual spring dinner tonight at 6 in McArdle's Restaurant, Lincoln Way, White Oak. Donna Kurucz, president, will extend the welcome and Ruth Whirl will offer the invocation.
The scholarship award will be presented to Cari Skiffington, daughter of Vicki Finch and the late Donald Skiffington.
McKeesport Daily News May 20, 2005
Skateboarders, bikers revive rec area that is former Glassport tennis court
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A once-dormant tennis court in Glassport now is bustling with activity as several young men riding skateboards or BMX bikes make their way up and over ramps and half-pipes, showing off their best tricks.
Glassport Mayor Thomas Urbanski said the five or so men is nothing - nighttime visitors to the park are likely to find several dozen skaters and bikers.
The new skate park was an idea borough officials had been brewing for awhile but with the help of two local men, they got the wheels rolling.
Glassport resident Mike Leber told Council President Terry DiMarco about a bunch of equipment no longer in use at PA Cheap Skates. DiMarco spoke with the owner. Damon Marraccini, who offered to donate several ramps, rails and other equipment to the borough at no charge. He decided to close his skate park due to skyrocketing insurance rates and is moving his shop to Rainbow Village in White Oak in June.
Until then, Cheap Skates will operate out of its current Third Street location in North Versailles Twp.
Glassport's public works employees picked up the equipment and set it up last week on the old tennis court off the 200 block of Monongahela Avenue near Harrison Street.
DiMarco said he realized a skate park would be a great asset for the borough when he visited a similar set-up in Pittsburgh's McKinley Park. "It was always busy," DiMarco said. The park in Glassport has had a similar effect, located next to a basketball court. "It's a little complex for kids," DiMarco said. "It's neat."
Leber said soon they will add a mini-half-pipe to the mix, making it an even more enticing location for area skaters and bike riders.
As a thank-you gesture for Leber, Borough Solicitor Gary Matta gave him a $100 gift certificate for PA Cheap Skates. Urbanski also thanked DiMarco and Councilman Mike Ksiazek for their efforts in organizing the park.
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING GLASSPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2005 7:00 PM - BORO Council CHAMBERS
THE REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING OF THE GLASSPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL WAS Called TO ORDER BY THE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL TERRY DIMARCO. ROLL CALL VOTE: D'ANGELO, PRESENT; DESUE, PRESENT; KSIAZEK, PRESENT; MIHOCES, PRESENT; SKERKOSKI, PRESENT; UZIEL, PRESENT; DIMARCO, PRESENT; MAYOR THOMAS URBANSKI, PRESENT.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CITIZENS REQUESTS AND COMPLAINTS
MOTION: SKERKOSKI SECONDED BY UZIEL
TO HEAR COMPLAINTS AND REQUESTS OF CITIZENS PRESENT.
MOTION CARRIED.
MARY JANE STANCZAK - ASKED THE SOLICITOR WHY SHE HASN'T HEARD FROM HIM SINCE THE EAST MEETING? I HAVE HAD NO DISCUSSION FROM YOU.
SOLICITOR GARY MATTA SAID IT WAS NOT OVER THE ISSUE WHEN MY FIRM WAS INVOLVED. SINCE THAT THE PROPERTY WAS NOT CONVEYED OVER PROPERTY. NO DISCUSSION FROM MR. MUSCANTE UNTIL ABOUT ONE WEEK AGO. YOU WILL GET THE COPIES OF ALL THE DOCUMENTS. I DON'T BELIEVE THAT HE IS GOING TO SEND YOU A BILL.
MARY JANE STANCZAK - I HOPE THAT I WILL NOT BE BILLED FOR THIS.
ROBERT STECAK - PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE - HOW FAR ARE WE ON THAT LITTLE SEWER SYSTEM? I GOT ALL NEW SERVICE ON ALL THE LOTS. DID ANYTHING TAKE PLACE? YOU SAID WE ARE GOING TO TRY TO GET TOGETHER ON THIS. IF WE PUT A LINE IN SO THAT WE CAN GET THE SEWER GOING. MAYOR URBANSKI ASKED DID YOU HAVE AN ENGINEER SURVEY IT?
STECAK SAID ON MY PROPERTY YES. WE CAN GET SOMETHING ELSE GOING WHERE THEY CAN SEE WHERE YOU CAN PUT THAT SEWER LINE. I CAN GET THE PIPE AND THE LATERAL AND CUT IN FROM THE END OF PENNSYLVANIA AND GO ALONG TOWARDS EDMUNDSON TOWARDS THE SCHOOL. YOU WOULD HOOK UP AT THE BASE BY CHARMO'S HOUSE.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID YOU ASKED DID COUNCIL MEET OR DISCUSS THE SEWER AREA. BOB MENTIONED THAT HE WOULD PURCHASE THE PIPE WE WOULD NEED THREE OR FOUR MANHOLES.
STECAK SAID I DON'T KNOW IF YOU WOULD NEED THAT MANY MANHOLES. IF IT SHOWS ON THE MAP, YOU ARE NOT CROSSING ANYONE.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID HOW WIDE IS EDMUNDSON?
STECAK SAID IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE FORTY FEET BUT IT IS NOT. MY ROAD IS SUPPOSED TO BE FORTY FEET, BUT IT IS ONLY TWELVE FOOT. THERE ARE 1A PINS ON THEM.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID I HAVE TO GO THROUGH COUNCIL ON THIS. MIKE KSIAZEK ASKED DO WE HAVE TO GET SCOTT HILTY TO CHECK THIS OUT FIRST.
STECAK SAID I WAS TOLD AS SOON AS YOU GET THE PROPERTY SURVEYED, COME BACK TO COUNCIL. SOLICITOR SAID ONCE SCOT HILTY LAYS IT OUT THEN I CAN GET THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENTS.
STECAK SAID AT LEAST FOUR OR FIVE HOUSES I CAN GET BUILT IN THERE.
JAMES UZIEL, COUNCILMAN SAID YOU HAVE FOUR LOTS RIGHT NOW?
STECAK SAID I HAVE ABOUT ELEVEN ALL TOGETHER. THERE IS A HOUSE RIGHT DOWN FROM MINE AND ONE DOWN BY CHARMO. I HAVE 3 (75x100 FT) LOTS AND 1 (100 X 100 FT) LOT. THE LAND WAS IN THE POST GAZETTE TODAY. I WILL JUST END UP SELLING THE LOTS UNLESS I CAN BUILD ON THEM.
KSIAZEK SAID I RODE BY THERE SUNDAY. THAT HOUSE BY THE PAVILLION WHO OWNS THAT?
STECAK SAID THAT IS MINE. THAT HOUSE IS JUST GOING TO SIT. THE ADDRESS IS 1072 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE. HAVE YOU HEARD OF (CHILD'S WAY)? COULD YOU VACATE THAT FOR ME? IT IS BY LECK PROPERTY. WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO VACATE THAT? IT GOES OUT ABOUT THIRTY FEET.
SOLICITOR SAID COULD WE HAVE THAT REQUEST IN WRITING?
STECAK SAID YES WITH A PICTURE. I WILL BRING SOMETHING DOWN TO YOU.
D'ANGELO SAID DID YOU GET IN TOUCH WITH THE ZONING OFFICER?
DAVID MACHEL - FERN WAY, GLASSPORT - COMPLAINT ABOUT SCHOOL BUS IN FERN ALLEY - SPEED LIMIT IS 15 MPH AND THIS KID IS GOING THROUGH THE ALLEY AT 40 MILES PER HOUR. KIDS WERE PLAYING BALL IN THE YARD AND I COULD HEAR THIS VEHICLE SPEEDING THROUGH THE ALLEY. THAT CAR HAD THE BALL. IF THE KID WAS BEHIND THE BALL WE WOULD HAVE HAD A DEAD KID. THIS SCHOOL BUS KEEPS GOING THROUGH THE ALLEY. HE COMES UP ERIE AND IF YOU ARE GOING DOWN FERN YOU HAVE TO BACK UP. TEARING ALL YOUR COLD PATCHES UP ON THIS ALLEY. HE TOLD ME THE ONLY WAY THAT HE IS GOING TO QUIT COMING THROUGH THERE IS IF YOU PUT A SIGN UP. I CALLED THE BOROUGH MAINTENANCE. THIS GUY IN THE BUS GOES THROUGH HERE TWICE A DAY. ONCE AT ABOUT 7:30 AM AND ONCE AT 2:44 PM. I WAITED TWO DAYS IN A ROW FOR HIM. HE NEVER CAME THROUGH TODAY.
EUGENE SKERKOSKI, COUNCILMAN SAID THE SECONDARY ROADS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE 25 MPH. THAT IS A STANDARD ORDINANCE. IF THERE IS A NEED TO CHANGE IT WE CAN LOOK INTO THIS. I WILL HAVE THE MAYOR TALK TO THE CHIEF ON THIS.
DONALD TEBO - RITE AID BUILDING - AT THE NINTH STREET AND MONONGAHELA AVENUE, GLASSPORT SITE.
TERRY DIMARCO SAID WE HAD A MEETING WITH THE PLANNING COMMISSION. TRAFFIC LIGHT QUESTIONS AND GARBAGE BIN QUESTION. YOU CAN'T MOVE THE GARBAGE BIN ANYWHERE ELSE? MAKE IT LOOK LIKE A PART OF THE BUILDING.
DON TEBO SAID ALL THE FOOD ITEMS THAT WE SELL ARE PRE PACKAGED VENDORS. THERE WILL NOT BE ANY FOOD PRODUCTS SOLD THERE THAT ARE NOT PRE PACKAGED. IF WE DON'T SELL THE PRE PACKAGED ITEMS, THE VENDORS TAKE IT BACK WITH THEM.
MIKE KSIAZEK SAID THAT THE SMELL WAS THE ISSUE.
DON TEBO SAID THEY HAVE ONE BIN FOR CORRUGATED OR RECYCLABLE ITEMS AND ONE FOR TRASH. NINETY FIVE PER CENT OF WHAT GOES IN THERE IS SMALL TRASH.
JAMES UZIEL SAID WHAT IS THE TIME FRAME? IS THERE SOME KIND OF A HOLD UP.? IS THERE ANY LONG RANGE PLAN FOR THE EXISTING FACILITY?
DON TEBO SAID I HOPE THAT WITHIN NINETY DAYS THEY WILL START CONSTRUCTION. JANUARY, MAYBE FEBRUARY THEY SHOULD BE STARTING. WE HAVE A REAL ESTATE DIVISION THAT JUST DEALS WITH REAL ESTATE PROPERTY. WE HAVE A WHOLE LIST OF OTHER BUSINESSES THAT WE WILL LEASE TO. I WILL PASS THE AUTO PARTS STORE ON TO OUR PEOPLE FOR THE OTHER RITE AID BUILDING. THERE WILL BE 72 PARKING SPACES AVAILABLE AT THE NEW RITE AID BUILDING AND IT IS 14,564 SQUARE FEET OF SPACE.
MIKE KSIAZEK ASKED IF RITE AID IS GOING TO PAY FOR THE TRAFFIC LIGHT AT THE NEW FACILITY?
DON TEBO SAID IF THE INTERSECTION MEETS THEIR CRITERIA AND PENN DOT APPROVES OF IT. WE HAVE TRIGGERS THAT WILL KICK THE LIGHTS OFF AND ON.
MIKE KSIAZEK ASKED WHAT ABOUT TWENTY YEARS FROM NOW IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO THOSE LIGHTS? THE BUSINESS THAT PUTS IN THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS COULD PAY FOR THE MAINTENANCE.
EUGENE SKERKOSKI SAID TO WAIT UNTIL THE STUDY IS DONE. HE ALSO ASKED ABOUT CUTTING OFF ACCESS TO THE NINTH STREET FIELD?
DON TEBO SAID THE COMPANY COULD BE INTERESTED IN CUTTING OFF THAT NINTH STREET BALLFIELD. WE WOULD HAVE TO COME BEFORE THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND SEE WHAT WE COULD DO.
D'ANGELO SAID THERE IS A GATE. IS THAT GATE GOING TO BE CLOSED OFF OR ARE WE STILL GOING TO HAVE ACCESS. THE RESIDENTS ARE GOING TO HAVE TO WALK THROUGH TO COME ACROSS TO THE BALLFIELD.
SKERKOSKI ASKED IS THERE A PROPOSED FENCE FOR THE BACK?
DON TEBO SAID NOT TO MY KNOWLEDGE.
MIKE KSIAZEK SAID THEY ARE NOT GOING TO PUT ANOTHER FENCE UP.
SKERKOSKI ASKED IF ISSUES ARISE THAT THEY NEED TO PUT A FENCE UP THEN WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO.
JAMES UZIEL SAID THE LITTLE THINGS CAN BE DEALT WITH LATER.
MOTION: UZIEL SECONDED BY D'ANGELO
TO ACCEPT THE RITE AID PLAN.
MOTION CARRIED. MOTION: SKERKOSKI SECONDED BY D'ANGELO
TO GO INTO THE REGULAR ORDER OF BUSINESS.
MOTION CARRIED. PARKS AND RECREATION - MICHAEL KSIAZEK, CHAIRMAN
READ REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2005 - WE SENT THE AD FOR FUN TO BE A KIDS DAY MEETING BUT IT WAS NEVER IN THE PAPER. RELIANCE HOSE COMPANY NO. 2 IS GOING TO SET UP FIRE PREVENTION TRAILER.
FUN TO BE A KIDS DAY WILL BE ON JULY 9, 2005 BEHIND IN THE THIRD STREET PARK AREA. THANKS TO ALL THE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE DONATED SO FAR. SKATEBOARD PARK HAS BEEN INSTALLED AT THE TENNIS COURTS FOR THE KIDS TO USE.
TERRY DIMARCO, PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL STATED THAT HE TALKED WITH CHEAPSKATES AND THEY DONATED A LOT OF MATERIAL. A COUPLE MORE PIECES THAT WILL BE INSTALLED. THERE WILL BE SIGNS UP ADVISING THE YOUTHS TO USE HELMETS AND PADS.
MIKE KSIAZEK SAID WE SHOULD GET LESS COMPLAINTS OF SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS, BIKES, ETC...
FIREMEN RECYCLING PICKUP WILL BE THE SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH.
BOROUGH GARAGE DUMPSTER FOR METAL APPLIANCES IS OPEN TWENTY FOUR HOURS A DAY AND THE BOROUGH GETS REIMBURSED BY TUBE CITY METAL, INC. FOR THIS.
POETRY AWARENESS WENT VERY WELL.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID I WAS UP THE PATTERSON PROPERTY ABOUT A WEEK AGO AND PEOPLE ARE DUMPING LUMBER, SHINGLES AND SOMEBODY PUT THE LUMBER ON FIRE. THIS IS WHY WE DON'T WANT LUMBER UP THERE. NO LOCK BUT THERE WILL BE A LOCK TOMORROW. I HOPE THAT WE CAN CATCH SOMEONE UP THERE. WE HAD A STOLEN CAR TAKEN UP THERE. IT USED TO BE A LOVER'S LANE.
EUGENE SKERKOSKI SAID YOU THINK WE OUGHT TO POST A SIGN FOR THE SAFETY OF THE KIDS AT THE SKATEBOARD PARK?
TERRY DIMARCO SAID I WENT TO MR. LEE FOR THE INSURANCE AND I TOOK CARE OF ALL OF THAT. DRAW UP AN ORDINANCE ON THE SAFETY ISSUES. TO REVIEW THE HELMET ORDINANCE REQUIRING THAT SKATEBOARDERS MUST WEAR A HELMET . FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION - TERRY DIMARCO READ REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2005 A LIQUID FUELS CHECK WAS SENT TO THE BOROUGH IN THE AMOUNT OF $84,943.38 AND DEPOSITED INTO THE FIRST COMMONWEALTH ACCOUNT (LIQUID FUELS ACCT) FOR YEAR 2005.
READ TAX COLLECTOR'S REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2005 - TOTAL COLLECTIONS WAS $14,699.60
COMCAST FINANCIAL FRANCHISE FEE FOR THE 1ST QTR. 2005 WAS SENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,978.16.
SWIMMING POOL - EDWARD MIHOCES, CHAIRMAN
TRYING TO GET THE UNITED STATES STEEL TO FIX THE PUMP AT THE SWIMMING POOL. ANYONE THAT WANTS TO OPEN THAT POOL UP CAN DO SO.
TERRY DIMARCO COMMENTED THAT THERE WERE NINE PEOPLE USING THE POOL IN JULY OF LAST YEAR.
SEWAGE COMMITTEE: JOHN DESUE, CHAIRMAN/COUNCILMAN
EXPENSES $39,890.00 YEAR TO DATE $154,907.00
RECEIPTS $41,362.00 YEAR TO DATE $168,236.00
TOTAL DELINQUENTS COLLECTED FOR SEWAGE - $35,721.00 STREET DEPARTMENT REPORT: JAMES UZIEL, CHAIRMAN
READ THE REPORT OF THE STREET DEPARTMENT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2005. THE YEARS THAT I HAVE BEEN ON THIS COUNCIL I KNOW THAT THERE IS ALWAYS A NEED FOR RECREATION FOR THE YOUTH. FINALLY THROUGH THE EFFORTS OF MR. DIMARCO THAT AREA HAS BEEN TURNED INTO A SKATE PARK. WE TRIED TO TAKE ONE OF THE EXISTING COURTS AND MAKE IT INTO A BASKETBALL COURT. RETAIN OTHER ONE FOR A TENNIS COURT. THE TENNIS COURT BECAME BASICALLY A PARKING LOT FOR STONE & COMPANY. WE UTILIZED THE AREA IN A MANOR THAT IT HELPS THE BOROUGH. WE MADE IT AS FAST AS POSSIBLE. IT WAS A VERY GOOD INVESTMENT. THIS GIVES SOMETHING FOR THE KIDS TO DO.
I CAN'T SEE ANY DRAINAGE PROBLEMS ON OREGON AVENUE. WE ANTICIPATE PAVING OF MINNESOTA AND IOWA.
THE PATTERSON PROPERTY AREA SHOULD BE SECURED BECAUSE OF STOLEN VEHICLES, FOWL PLAY, AND ILLEGAL DUMPING UP THERE.
MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS AND PROPERTY: JAMES UZIEL, COUNCIL/CHAIRMAN
WE HAD SOME PAINT DONATED FOR THE SENIOR CITIZENS BUILDING AND THE PAINT WAS NOT GOOD. IT WOULD NOT COVER ANYTHING AND WE WILL TAKE IT BACK AND GET AN UPGRADED PAINT.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID THAT MR. DIMARCO JUST GOT $5,000 GRANT FOR THE SENIOR CITIZENS. TAKE THAT MONEY AND GET SOME GOOD PAINT AND FIX THE FRONT OF THE BUILDING. DRESS IT UP. THEY WOULD LIKE TO HAVE THAT BENCH BACK. I DON'T THINK THAT IT IS FAIR TO REMOVE A BENCH AND I THINK WE SHOULD CITE THOSE PEOPLE THAT DID REMOVE IT. WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO TAKE THE BENCH AWAY AND GIVE THEM THEIR WAY? NEXT TIME WE HAVE COMPLAINTS ON LITTERING IN THE BOROUGH WE SHOULD GET AT LEAST ONE OR TWO CITATIONS.
KSIAZEK SAID THANK STREET DEPARTMENT FOR INSTALLING THE SKATE PARK. ALSO COMMENTED THAT PEOPLE ARE PARKING IN THE ALLEYS AND MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT FOR THE GARBAGE TRUCKS TO GET THROUGH.
SKERKOSKI SAID TO CONVINCE THEM TO USE THE SMALL TRUCK ON NARROW PASSAGES.
KSIAZEK SAID POLICE SHOULD GO THROUGH FERN ALLEY AND TAG THESE PEOPLE THAT ARE PARKING IN THE ALLEY.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID THE ROAD IS ONLY 8 FT. WIDE.
JEREMY LEVKUS HAD A CONCERN ABOUT GETTING DOWN OREGON AVENUE AND HELP SOMEONE IF NEEDED. THE FIRE HALL HAS CLOSED-THE 400 BLOCK OF OREGON AVENUE FOR AMBULANCE CALLS AND FIRE CALLS.
MOTION: D'ANGELO SECONDED BY SKERKOSKI
ENGINEER TO DO A STUDY ON OREGON AVENUE. MOTION CARRIED.
POLICE AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEES: EUGENE SKERKOSKI, CHAIRMAN/COUNCILMAN
APRIL REPORT READ, 2005
HANDICAPPED COMMITTEE - EUGENE SKERKOSKI, CHAIRMAN
OBTAINED 25 SIGNS AND POLES FROM SENATOR SEAN LOGAN -THANKS TO HIM WE ERECTED A FEW SIGNS
SAVING MONEY ON COURT AT THE PRE TRIAL SCREENING FACILITY - ELIMINATES THE NEED FOR VEHICLES, GAS, SAVING MONEY ON COURT TIME. THEIR OFFICE IS IN MCKEESPORT. ANY CASE HELD THERE REFERRED TO PITTSBURGH. THE DA PASSES IT ON TO THE CHIEF AND TRANSFERS THE CASE DOWN TO MCKEESPORT. THEY HAVE BEEN DOING THIS FOR THREE AND ONE HALF YEARS.
SOLICITOR MATTA SAID THAT SOME OF THE BIGGEST COSTS ARE PRE TRIAL EXPENSES WHICH CAN BE A TREMENDOUS COST SAVINGS TO THE MUNICIPALITIES.
SKERKOSKI SAID THAT WE ARE UP TO DATE ON THE CODIFICATION. TALKED WITH KEN ROTZ AND WE WILL HAVE SOMETHING NEXT MONTH FOR COUNCIL'S REVIEW.
STETOR - QUESTION ON TICKETING ON THE 700 BLOCK OF MONONGAHELA AVENUE. YOU HAVE AN OFFICER TICKETING ON THE 500 AND 600 BLOCKS OF MONONGAHELA AVENUE AND CHASING EVERYONE DOWN TO SEVENTH AND THEY TIE UP BUSINESSES FOR 700 BLOCK OF MONONGAHELA AVENUE. IF THEY START TICKETING DOWN ON 700 BLOCK THIS WON'T HAPPEN.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID THE METERS DIDN'T WORK THERE BUT I TOLD THE POLICE JUST TO GET THE BUSY AREAS. SINCE BUSINESS IS BUILDING UP THERE I GUESS HE CAN TELL THEM TO START TAGGING UP THERE.
SKERKOSKI SAID WE MAY BE ABLE TO PURCHASE SOME OLD DUNCAN METERS.
DIMARCO SAID WE SHOULD BE GETTING A GRANT ANYTIME FOR THE PURCHASE OF A POLICE CAR. HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE POLICE CAR.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID THE 2005'S ARE GOING OUT AND THE 2006'S ARE COMING IN. PRICE SHOULD COME DOWN IF WE ARE LOOKING AT A 2005 POLICE CAR. EVERY TWO WEEKS WE HAVE A BREAK DOWN ON THE POLICE CAR. WAIT AND LET THE POLICE USE THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE.
FIRE, WATER AND AMBULANCE - JOHN D'ANGELO, CHAIRMAN/COMMITTEE REMOVE THE PIRSH TRUCK FROM THE #2 FIRE COMPANY INSURANCE LISTS.
CHECK ON THE EJ LOWERY BILL
GRANT TO PURCHASE THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA - REQUEST $2,000.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF CAMERA FOR THE CITIZEN'S HOSE COMPANY NO. 1.
RELIANCE HOSE COMPANY NO. 2 - FIRE LANE ON BRIDGE STREET - BOTH CORNERS IT IS HARD TO SWING AROUND FROM DELAWARE AND INDIANA
$800 - SHORTAGE - RELIANCE HOSE COMPANY NO. 2
TRCOG COMMITTEE: JOHN D'ANGELO, DELEGATE
GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING
SUBDIVISION & LAND DEVELOPMENT
COG GOLF OUTING ON JUNE 24, 2005 AT 8:00 AM
TURNED IN BUILDING INSPECTOR REPORT
CD YEAR 32 - JUNE 3, 2005
CD YEAR 31 - INCREASED TO $64,000 ALL PROPERTIES WILL BE DEMOLISHED. BEFORE YOU HAD TO PICK AND CHOOSE.
PROBLEM WITH 437 ERIE AVENUE - TWO HOUSES ON ONE LOT USING THE SAME WATERLINE. JEROME OWNS THE FRONT AND INTRIERI LIVES IN THE BACK. MRS. INTRIERI WILL NOT HAVE WATER WHEN THEY DEMOLISH HOUSE.
SENIOR CITIZENS COMMITTEE: EDWARD MIHOCES, CHAIRMAN
I SAW KIDS DOWN AT THE SKATEPARK WITH BIKES AND I CHASED THEM OUT.
MOTION: SKERKOSKI SECONDED BY KSIAZEK
TO RETURN TO THE REGULAR ORDER OF BUSINESS. MOTION CARRIED.
MAYOR URBANSKI REPORT - APRIL, 2005
JUVENILE REPORT - APRIL, 2005
BLOCKING PATTERSON PROPERTY
AMERICAN LEGION PARADE - 6:00 - 6:30 PM - BLOCK OFF SEVENTH STREET DOWN TO HONOR ROLL. NOTIFY THE PORT AUTHORITY OF THE BUS ROUTE CHANGE (CHUCK ROMPALA, ASSISTANT MANAGER ROAD OPERATIONS) (412)566-5321
MET WITH INSURANCE COMPANY ON THE DAMAGE OF THE NINTH STREET FIELD $500 DEDUCTIBLE. SOME OF THAT MONEY SHOULD GO BACK TO THE STREET DEPARTMENT WHO LAID THAT BLOCK AND FIXED THAT AREA. SOME OF THE MONEY SHOULD BE FOR A NEW COMMODE AT THE BALLFIELD.
MAYOR THOMAS URBANSKI OBTAINED A PEMA GRANT FOR THE HURRICANE IVAN DISASTER. WHEN WE GET THE MONIES IN WE WILL HAVE TO SEPARATE AND HAVE RECEIPTS ON THE SEWERS WE HAD CLEANED.
LIBRARY WRECK HAD LOCAL CONTRACTOR LOOK AT IT AND HE WILL FIX THE BRICK.
SKERKOSKI SAID THAT THE CONTRACTOR WILL FIX THE WHOLE ENTIRE FRONT OF THE BUILDING FOR THE ESTIMATED COST.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID WE PUT IN FOR A NEW BENCH. DIMARCO SAID GOOD JOB THAT YOU DID WITH PEMA.
SOLICITOR REPORT:
GARY MATTA BETHLEHEM ROAD EXONERATION
ORDINANCE NO. 773 - PENSION PLAN AMENDMENT - TO RECEIVE THE LUMP SUM AT AGE 55 OR LESS UPON TERMINATION. SOLICITOR WILL REVIEW AND DRAW UP AMENDMENT. THIS IS FOR THE NON-UNION PLAN.
WE WILL HAVE AN EXECUTIVE SESSION ON PERSONNEL MATTERS AFTER THE REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING.
SCHEDULE MEETINGS WITH BILL ASSAY AND BEV KOSSUM FOR THE PENSION MATTERS. HAVE TO SCHEDULE THESE SEPARATELY BECAUSE THEY ARE BOTH NOT AVAILABLE TO MEET TOGETHER IN THE NEAR FUTURE. IF YOU WANT TO MEET WITH BOTH TOGETHER IT WOULD NOT BE UNTIL AFTER THE JUNE REGULAR MEETING.
SKERKOSKI SAID THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT ISSUE. RESPOND POST HASTE TO MAKE SURE THAT THE ISSUE DID NOT DIE.
MOTION: KSIAZEK SECONDED BY SKERKOSKI
TO ACCEPT THE REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES.
MOTION CARRIED.
MOTION: UZIEL SECONDED BY SKERKOSKI TO MOVE ON TO NEW BUSINESS. MOTION CARRIED.
MAYOR URBANSKI COMMENTED ON THE SMELL ON NAOMI AVENUE AND ASKED IF IT IS ANY BETTER.
STANCZAK SAID THE SUPERVISOR SHOULD BE MONITORING THIS.
MAYOR URBANSKI SAID THEY HAD THAT PROBLEM IN COAL VALLEY AND THEY PUT AN INSTRUMENT OUT THERE TO MEASURE THE SMELL.
SKERKOSKI SAID THE ENGINEER DID TAKE STEPS TO CORRECT AND MONITOR THE SITUATIONS.
MOTION: SKERKOSKI SECONDED BY KSIAZEK
TO APPROVE THE MONTHLY MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL, 2005.
MOTION CARRIED. MOTION: KSIAZEK SECONDED BY MIHOCES
TO APPROVE THE FINANCE REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2005 AS SUBMITTED BY THE PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL.
MOTION CARRIED. MOTION: SKERKOSKI SECONDED BY KSIAZEK
TO PAY THE BILLS.
MOTION CARRIED.
TOWING CONTRACT - ADVERTISE IN THE DAILY NEWS AND PUT OUT FOR BID THE TOWING CONTRACT.
PICK HOUSES FOR THE COG DEMOLITION LIST.
CHECK ON BUILDING ACROSS THE STREET FROM QUEEN OF THE ROSARY FOR DEMOLITION.
SYNAGOGUE ON OHIO AVENUE USED FOR STORAGE
CHUCK HUBCAPS - 710 MONONGAHELA AVENUE
BIG JOHNS HARDWARE STORE - 510 MONONGAHELA AVENUE (GLS) CAPITAL
JOSEPHINE RUFFING - CLEAN UP SO THAT IF THEY GET AN APPROVAL THEY CAN GET SOME MONEY AND FIX THE ROOF AND MAKE APARTMENTS.
DIMARCO SAID THAT EVERY COUNCILMAN TO SEND THEIR LIST IN TO THE SECRETARY AND WE WILL SUBMIT THIS TO COG.
MAYOR BLOCK PARTY FOR BROWNFIELD - OK
SMV ASSOCIATES - STEVE VOLPE DP GEN. CONTRACTING - DAVE PRISTAS WILL MEET AT THE NEXT CAUCAS MEETING TO BE INTERVIEWED BY COUNCIL.
MOTION: UZIEL SECONDED BY KSIAZEK
TONER SUBDIVISION PLAN OK'D BY COUNCIL AND APPROVED.
MOTION CARRIED.
ROLL CALL VOTE: ALL YES EXCEPT SKERKOSKI (NO)
MOTION: D'ANGELO SECONDED BY SKERKOSKI
MEETING ADJOURNED TO THE CALL OF THE CHAIR.
MOTION CARRIED.
SUBMITTED BY: BOROUGH OF GLASSPORT NANCY M. PIAZZA-WHABY BOROUGH SECRETARY
APPROVED BY: BOROUGH OF GLASSPORT TERRY DIMARCO PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL
McKeesport Daily News May 24, 2005
Glassport
Juvenile cited
A juvenile was cited for criminal mischief for allegedly putting graffiti on an abandoned building in the area of Sixth Street and Cyprus Alley Sunday.
McKeesport Daily News May 24, 2005
Glassport firefighter awaits heart-and-lung transplant
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer May 24, 2005
A Glassport firefighter came close to getting the heart-and-lung transplant he so desperately needs, but instead still waits for the organs. Michael McCall, 34, has been waiting for a heart-and-lung transplant for more than two years after a battle with pulmonary hypertension, a condition that caused the organs to fail. Advertisement
During a recent five-week stay in the hospital, McCall, the father of two small children, heard the page over the hospital loudspeaker he'd been waiting for - they might have his new heart and lungs.
Someone had died in a car crash - someone with McCall's rare O-positive blood type.
Once the victim was on the operating table, surgeons realized the heart was too damaged for a transplant. Someone else got the workable lungs. McCall's family got disappointment.
"I don't get my hopes up too high," the Citizens Hose firefighter said. "I figure it will happen one of these times."
In addition to blood type, McCall said a donor has to have the same tissue type, be the same age or younger and have similarly sized organs. These factors narrow the chance of finding the right match.
If he gets the transplants, his life could be saved but his financial situation likely would be ruined.
McCall's evaluation and transplant surgery will cost $317,000. Post-transplant medications could cost as much as $4,000 a month, something his insurance doesn't cover.
Members of Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 and Chief Wayne Lewis organized a fund drive to benefit the McCall family.
Checks can be mailed to Citizens Hose Co. No. 1, c/o Michael McCall Medical Fund, P.O. Box 126, Glassport, 15045.
Early donations have helped the family deal with day-to-day medical expenses after McCall, who spends most of the day hooked up to an oxygen machine, took medical leave from his job as a Saturn technician in September.
McKeesport Daily News May 25, 2005
Glassport library schedule changes
Glassport Library currently is open Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Beginning in June and continuing through August, the library will be open on Thursdays only.
Today, Jane Drogoski and Leslie Morrow will volunteer. Thursday, Florence Gerstner and Betty Charney are scheduled.
June 2, the library will be closed for the school picnic.
June 9, Ann Dzurko and Nellie Sherman will volunteer.
McKeesport Daily News May 26, 2005
Glassport might not open pool
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer May 26, 2005
It looks as if the community pool in Glassport won't open this summer. At Tuesday's meeting, council discussed the troubled pool and decided there not enough money to open it to the public. Council President Terry DiMarco said the borough is trying everything it can to avoid such a fate, but has had no luck. Advertisement
Councilman John D'Angelo applied for dozens of private grants, but none have panned out.
DiMarco said a resident committee has been formed.
"If we get a grant we will open the pool, but now it looks bleak," he said.
DiMarco said the pool isn't profitable for the borough because very few residents use it. On the warmest day in July last year, he said, only nine people showed up.
On the other hand, the borough's new skate park is faring quite well.
Recently, PA Cheap Skates in North Versailles Twp. donated several skate ramps and other equipment to the borough. Public works employees assembled the equipment at an unused tennis court off Monongahela Avenue in the area of Harrison Street.
DiMarco said dozens of kids use the park every evening and also fish off the borough's boat docks.
The council president said he's glad the borough could help the youth get something they enjoy.
Also Tuesday night, council opted to bid out the borough's towing contract.
McKeesport Daily News May 27, 2005
Glassport
Offices to close
Glassport borough offices will be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day. Normal business hours will resume Tuesday.
Development group to meet
Glassport Development Corp. will meet Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Glassport Community Library. Local business owners are invited to attend.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette June 2, 2005
Skatepark puts teenagers on a roll for the summer
By Margaret Smykla Tri-State Sports and News Service
To turn local youngsters' dreams of a skateboard and BMX park into reality, Glassport has spent a little bit of money and a big allotment of good will.
Because of a donation and good timing, the borough's former tennis court on Harrison Street, which, in recent years, had fallen into disrepair, is now a busy skatepark used by dozens of skateboarders and cyclists.
It all began about eight months ago, when six teenagers appeared at a borough caucus meeting to ask for a skateboard and BMX bike riding facility in the community, similar to the skatepark in Beltzhoover's McKinley Park.
Council President Terry DiMarco and his wife, Rose, visited that park, talking to young people about the site's popularity.
In a twist of fate in the weeks shortly afterward, Terry DiMarco ran into someone who asked him if the community would be interested in free equipment for such a skatepark.
Mike Leber, 19, who shops at Pa. Cheap Skates in North Versailles, said the owner of the shop Damon Marraccini, was moving that shop to Rainbow Village Shopping Center in White Oak, and was closing the skatepark he ran next to the shop. Marraccini told Leber he was free to take whatever park items he wanted.
An hour after that fortuitous meeting, DiMarco was talking with Marraccini, who told him he arrived just in time as other towns were calling to take advantage of his offer.
The new park is on the borough's former tennis court, adjacent to a basketball court, on Harrison Street in the borough's blossoming mini riverfront recreation center. near its boat docks, pavilion, trails and fishing spots.
Three weeks ago, borough workers finished installing Marraccini's donation of such items as rails, ledges, barriers, pipe, banks and other materials indigenous to skateparks.
The only cost to the borough was $2,900 for a fence and $700 for insurance. There was no price tag put on the donation.
The park opened to rave review from those who use it. Sam Piazza, 14, of Glassport, called it "awesome," and said he'd spend his summer skateboarding there because the community pool would most likely remain closed for the second consecutive year.
Dominick Borreggine, 18, of Liberty, said that while he enjoys riding his BMX bike there whenever he has free time, it is young teens who have the most to gain because the skatepark offers an alternative to experimenting with drugs and alcohol.
Cody Carlson, 14, of Glassport, said police officers chased him off the main streets when he rode his BMX bike as it violated a borough ordinance. Today, he spends his after-school time at the park, trying jumps, doing tricks and talking with friends.
"We'll get the kids off the street. We'll know where they are, and they'll be safe," DiMarco said of the facility.
His plans call for asking council's approval to connect the wiring for lights at the park, and to buy some new wood and paint.
In the meantime, youngsters such as cousins Tommy Harding, 11, and Todd Carman, 11, who would otherwise be playing video games, come to the park every day with their scooters, skateboards and bikes.
"I like it also because everybody is nice here," Harding said.
McKeesport Daily News June 7, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Mike Sumtak, no age given, of Glassport, was cited early Friday for disorderly conduct. Police said Sumtak was banging on doors along the 300 block of Sixth Street shortly after 1 a.m.
Joshua Crow, 22, of Port Vue, was cited Thursday for disorderly conduct and public intoxication. Police said Crow was highly intoxicated shortly before 11 p.m. along the intersection of Sixth Street and Allegheny Avenue. He was held until deemed sober.
Disorderly conduct cited
Shawn Malseed, 47, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct Monday morning along Euclid Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News June 7, 2005
Glassport man faces trial in death
By THE DAILY NEWS
A Glassport man was held for court on charges of a vehicular accident causing death while driving privileges were suspended or revoked.
McKeesport police said Robert Nemeth was driving the vehicle involved in a pedestrian accident that killed 84-year-old Albert Forgash of McKeesport in December 2003.
The victim was leaving the Elbow Room, crossing Rebecca Street at W. Fifth Avenue, when the defendant's vehicle was heading north on Rebecca in an attempt to turn left on W. Fifth, police said.
A coroner's report indicates the victim's cause of death was blunt force trauma to the torso.
Nemeth is scheduled for trial Aug. 16 at 1 p.m. in Pittsburgh.
McKeesport Daily News June 9, 2005
Use caution when solicitors call at the door, Glassport chief says says
BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport police are warning residents to be wary of those for whom they open their doors.
Recently, police have been fielding questions about the borough's policy on door-to-door solicitation.
Police Chief Howard Kifer said all solicitors must be registered in Glassport, which also gives police a better idea of those who are canvassing the borough.
Use caution when someone comes to the door, Kifer said.
"Seniors especially have to be careful who they let in," the chief said. He suggested residents ask visitors for identification and their soliciting permit. The permit should bear the borough secretary's signature.
If a solicitor does not have a permit, he or she is in violation of local ordinance, Kifer said. In that case, residents should not let the person in their house and immediately should contact the police department.
In light of a number of home invasions reported throughout the area in recent years, Kifer said it's always better to be safe than sorry.
In 2003, an 89-year-old Peters Twp. woman died from a heart attack after four men posing as utility workers robbed her home and badly beat her husband.
The same year, an elderly White Oak man was beaten and almost thrown down a flight of stairs when he tried to fend off a group of home invaders who had entered his house posing as water company workers.
According to the Crime Prevention Association of Western Pennsylvania, there are many types of scams home invaders use to gain entrance to a person's home.
Gas leak: Someone will come to your door saying that they are checking for a leak.
Electric company repairs: Someone will say they are there for repairs you never reported.
Unexpected delivery: You didn't order anything and you aren't expecting any gifts.
In each case, CPAWP said do not open the door. Using a window, ask to see identification and for the name of their company and supervisor. Instead of using a phone number they provide, which could be a set-up, look up the company's number yourself and call to verify. If no such company or employee exists, immediately call the police. CPAWP also offered the following tips to prevent a home invasion:
Install solid core doors and heavy duty locks.
Keep all doors, windows and garages locked.
Use a peephole before opening the door.
At night, make use of a porch light.
Ask for identification to be slid under your door or look at it through your window.
Report any suspicious persons in your neighborhood to police, making note of as much identifying information about the person and/or their vehicle as possible.
McKeesport Daily News June 15, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Remembering a Glassport friend
Since he was an occasional contributor to this column, I'm writing this letter in honor of Major Wojciechowski.
In addition to being a pillar of the community, a Glassporter through and through Major was the consummate professional.
He helped countless families (mine included several times) in their times of mourning and grief.
Here's to you Maj! I know you're somewhere where the sun is shining and Wojies is playing a doubleheader!
Jack Kokayko
Glassport
McKeesport Daily News June 16, 2005
Glassport Women's Club trip planned
Glassport Women's Club is announcing trip information. Reservations are being accepted for the trip to the Shrines and Sights of New York City, Sept. 13-16.
Included will be a visit to five Shrines, Ground Zero, Ellis Island and a Broadway musical.
Additional information may be obtained by calling 412672-3028 or 412-678-6246.
McKeesport Daily News June 17, 2005
Glassport
Burglary arrests made
Two people were arrested for an alleged break-in along Erie Avenue Tuesday.
Chester Stone Jr., 33, of Glassport, and Steven Mayernik, 43, of Belle Vernon, were arrested for burglary, criminal trespass, and loitering and prowling at night, police said. Stone also was cited for disorderly conduct. Mayernik also was arrested for prohibitive offensive weapons.
McKeesport Daily News June 17, 2005
Glassport
Tax office to close
The borough tax office will be closed July 4 in observance of Independence Day. The office will resume normal business hours July 5.
Delinquent taxes to slip
South Allegheny School District 2004 taxes will be sent July 5 to Keystone Municipal for delinquent collections.
To avoid delinquent collections, payments may be made at the tax office until June 30.
Discount tax period near end
Starting July 1, borough taxes will enter the face amount period. To take advantage of the discount amount, payments will be accepted at the tax office until June 30.
McKeesport Daily News June 20, 2005
Glassport
Fun to Be a Kid Day set
Fun to Be a Kid Day is July 9.
Sign-ups are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the borough office. Children between the ages of 2 and 12 are invited to sign-up and receive a, T-shirt.
The event is supported by a grant from Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and administered by Twin Rivers Council of Governments.
Volunteers also are encouraged. to sign-up at the borough office.
Fun to Be a Kid Day will be held behind the Honor Roll.
Donations are being accepted for the climbing wall, moon walk, obstacle course, train, petting zoo, and other activities.
McKeesport Daily News June 21, 2005
Glassport
Development group to meet
Members of Glassport Development Corp. will meet Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Sonic Pictures, 7 Allegheny Square.
Members of council, the school board, Allegheny County Department of Economic Development, and Twin Rivers Council of Governments will participate.
McKeesport Daily News June 21, 2005
Glassport
Drunk driving reported
Laura Rose, 38, of Clairton, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol Saturday. Police said Rose was observed driving erratically in the area of Hemlock Alley shortly after 4 a.m. Police said she appeared to be highly intoxicatcd. She was taken into custody.
Public drunkenness cited
Brian Gall, 31, of Glassport, was cited for public drunkenness Saturday. Police said Gall was creating a disturbance along the 700 block of Monongahela Avenue at approximately 6:30 a.m. He also was found to be highly intoxicated, police said.
Cory Hupton, 22, of Glassport, was cited for public drunkenness Saturday. Police said Hupton was creating a disturbance at the intersection of Allegheny Avenue and Sixth Street. . He was held until deemed sober.
McKeesport Daily News June 22, 2005
Glassport picks Volpe as new building inspector
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport has hired a new building inspector.
At Tuesday night's meeting, council chose Steve Volpe for the position.
Previously, the borough used Twin Rivers Council of Governments' joint building inspector Bruce Bosley.
Council President Terry DiMarco said the borough had received a grant to pay for Bosley's services through COG'S Uniform Construction Code Program. Now that the grant has run out, DiMarco said council decided it would be in the best interest of the borough to hire someone on its own.
DiMarco said Volpe's price for service is less expensive and he would have more time to devote to Glassport's needs.
The council president added he anticipates borough building permit fees to go down once the change goes through.
In other business, council discussed the recent closing of the McKeesport-based county booking center.
DiMarco said when he heard about the closure he sent letters to county officials and state legislators asking for help.
Councilman and former borough police chief Eugene Skerkoski shared DiMarco's concern. "This is going to hurt us financially," Skerkoski said. "It's going to hurt every community," DiMarco added.
Skerkoski said when officers make an after-hours arrest now, they will have to drive to Pittsburgh to book the suspect; they used to only have to drive a few miles to McKeesport. This will create more police overtime and will take officers out of their patrol communities, Skerkoski said.
Also Monday night, councilmen discussed the possibility of creating an ordinance involving disorderly renters. DiMarco said other communities have a similar ordinance which gives the borough the power to fine landlords of disorderly tenants.
If the police are called for a disorder three times, the landlord must evict the tenant or face a fine.
Skerkoski said the ordinance could be a good thing for Glassport. "It gives the community more teeth in enforcing landlords," Skerkoski said. "If you call them, they won't come around but if you fine them, I bet they will."
Council will discuss the possibility at its next workshop meeting.
In other business, Recreation Chair Michael Ksiazek said work is coming along on the Third Street sitting park. A $10,000 grant recently was received for more playground equipment. Ksiazek said he would like all the work, including the construction of a new gazebo, to be completed this year.
Also, DiMarco announced County Hauling will be sending a small truck to pick up the trash of Oregon Avenue residents. Since the company could not provide a specific day for pick-up, residents are advised to place their trash at the curb in closed cans on a daily basis for pick-up.
Residents previously had complained about service on Oregon Avenue.
All businesses are asked to beautify the area around the trees in front of their buildings with flowers or mulch. Also, they should keep the area weeded and free of trash.
Businesses' donations to Fun to be a Kid Day would be appreciated, Ksiazek said. Also, volunteers still are needed. For more information on the July 9 event, contact the borough office at 412-672-7400.
McKeesport Daily News June 22, 2005
Glassport
Five cited in fight
Five Glassport residents were cited for disorderly conduct Wednesday after an afternoon fight in the 700 block of Hemlock Alley, police said.
Those cited were identified as Lynn Julian, 46; Walter Walker, 22; Jennifer Lynn Robinson, 25; Amy Annalisa McLaughlin, 21; and Nicole Julian, 20.
Nicole Julian also was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Pittsburgh, police said.
McKeesport Daily News July 7, 2005
Glassport
Home invasion reported
Police said a residence along the 900 block of Vermont Avenue was broken into Wednesday. The incident occurred at 10:52 p.m., police said. No injuries were reported.
Police said an elderly resident spotted a man searching through her home. She yelled and scared him off, police said. Police said no suspect was found during a search of the home and surrounding area. No items were stolen, police said.
Police Chief Howard Kifer said residents should take extra care to lock their doors overnight in an effort to keep their homes secure.
Anyone with information pertaining to the invasion is asked to call Glassport police at 412-672-4514.
McKeesport Daily News July 7, 2005
Glassport getting set for its first `Kid' day
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport is gearing up for its very first Fun to Be a Kid Day. The annual tradition for many local communities now comes to Glassport after nearly a year of planning and fund raising by volunteers and Councilman Michael Ksiazek.
Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. children will be treated to a day of free food and entertainment. The event will be behind the Glassport Library near the bike trail along Allegheny Avenue.
Scheduled activities include a petting zoo, climbing wall, obstacle course, a giant inflatable slide, caricatures and face painting.
Members of Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 will be on hand to share fire safety tips and take pictures of children in fire gear.
Children also can help themselves to a free hot dog, bag of chips and a pop.
Ksiazek said 71 children already pre-registered for the event but he expects many more to show up Saturday. Any child age 2 to 12 is invited to the free event.
Ksiazek said none of this would've been possible without the help of volunteers and the many donations from area businesses. In fact, the entire event was funded by donations from businesses and residents. "We had a really nice participation, especially for the first time," Ksiazek said.
Ksiazek said the ball got rolling for Fun to Be a Kid Day by resident James Rocco who helped organize a successful movie in the park night for children. It didn't take long for many people to get involved. "We wanted to do something for our children," Ksiazek said. "Those who come will enjoy themselves."
The councilman hopes to do the day annually. "It should grow every year," Ksiazek said. "I want to thank everybody who donated and those who volunteered."
McKeesport Daily News July 14, 2005
Two area men face charges in separate child assault cases
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff bbrubaker@newsemail.com
Two area men were arrested in connection with sexual assaults on young girls. A Glassport man, who identified himself as the owner of a Monongahela Avenue convenience store in the borough, is accused of fondling an 8-year-old girl, an act reportedly caught on his own surveillance tape. Also, a Herminie man is accused of sexually assaulting a 4-year-old in North Huntingdon Twp.
In the North Huntingdon Twp. incident, Robert Edward Duncan, 39, of Sewickley Avenue, is charged with three counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, aggravated indecent assault, endangering the welfare of children, corruption of minors and indecent assault.
According to a police affidavit, the mother of the 4-year-old reported that her young child said Duncan touched the girl's private area on multiple occasions, made her touch his genitals, and took nude photographs of her. The incidents reportedly occurred between January and October of 2004 at a location in Westmoreland City, North Huntingdon Twp., while the girl's mother was sleeping in another room or at work.
State police in Greensburg initiated the investigation and found that the incidents actually occurred in North Huntingdon Twp., the affidavit said.
Duncan was arrested by both state and township police. Duncan was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Douglas Weimer of North Huntingdon Twp. and remanded to Westmoreland County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled forWednesday at 9 a.m.
In Glassport, Babulal Patel, 53, of Indiana Avenue, is charged with aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, and corruption of minors for a June 20 incident.
An 8-year-old girl said she and a 7-year-old friend went to the convenience store when the owner, who she knew as Bob, was working. The girl said Patel gave her candy, balloons and drinks for free. He then allegedly reached under her shirt and squeezed her breasts and touched her private area.
The girl told police that during the act Patel whispered in her ear, "Do you like that?" The girl said Patel also "French kissed" her. Police said the girl was unsure if her young friend was touched or if she saw her being touched.
When questioned by Glassport police, Patel reportedly said that he did see the girls that day but that his wife also was working with him. Patel allegedly admitted to kissing the girl on the cheek and said she kissed him on the cheek also because he gave her candy. He denied kissing her on the lips or touching her inappropriately.
A surveillance video in the store, however, proved otherwise, police said. The tape allegedly showed Patel touching the girl's breasts and kissing her on the lips. Police also said Patel's wife was not in the store at the time of the incident.
Charges were filed by Allegheny County Police's Child Abuse Unit.
Patel was arraigned Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin of Glassport. Bail was set at $100,000 straight cash, and Patel was ordered to be evaluated by a behavioral clinic. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Tuesday at 1 p.m.
McKeesport Daily News July 18, 2005
Glassport girl hurt in bike accident
By PATRICK CLOONAN Daily News Staff Writer pcloonan@dailynewsemail.com
A 7-year-old Glassport girl underwent surgery at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh for head injuries suffered when, on her bicycle, she ran into a parked pickup truck along Harrison Street in the borough.
Police Chief Howard Kifer said the child suffered a "tremendous head injury" in the accident Sunday shortly after 3 p.m. Authorities believe the child suffered a fractured skull as well as lacerations.
"Neighbors were controlling the bleeding when we arrived," Officer Phil Larcinese said. Witnesses said it appeared the child lost control of her bicycle coming down Erie Avenue, a hilly roadway that intersects with Harrison.
"Apparently she had slid on some gravel at the bottom of the street and struck a parked vehicle," Larcinese said.
Efforts to transport the youngster were hampered by weather conditions. Larcinese said medical helicopters were on standby, but one was 19-20 minutes out, while another was canceled due to an approaching thunderstorm.
Eventually, the child was taken to the Pittsburgh hospital by ambulance. "She was going to he in surgery most of the night," Larcinese was told.
No condition report was available as of presstime. Police were on the scene for two hours after the accident.
McKeesport Daily News July 20, 2005
Longtime Glassport councilman resigns
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Longtime Glassport Councilman John D'Angelo has resigned.
D'Angelo, 65, served as a councilman for 22 years. He tendered his resignation effective July 11. At Tuesday night's meeting, council accepted his resignation.
D'Angelo, who recently lost a bid for mayor in the Democratic primary, listed several reasons for his resignation. "It's been a long time," he said. "I can't take the misrepresentation going on now."
D'Angelo said current council members have lied to Glassport residents, which he said he tried to point out during the mayoral race. "We laid it out for (the voters)," he said. "They had their choice and they made it."
Current Council President Terry DiMarco won the Democratic nomination for mayor. There were no Republican candidates.
D'Angelo said the borough's finances are in "total decay," something he said he's tried to remedy. "What I see happening is a downhill spiral that isn't going to stop," he said. "They are taking giant steps backward."
His term has two more years remaining, which means council will need to appoint a new member. Council will seek letters of intent for the position until August 8, when a voting meeting will be held to appoint a new member.
D'Angelo thanked the residents of Glassport for their many years of support. "It's time for me to step down and let the young guys sling it out," he said.
McKeesport Daily News July 20, 2005
Glassport store owner waives charges allegedly involving child
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport convenience store owner accused of fondling an 8-year-old girl has waived charges against him to court.
Babulal Patel, 53, of Indiana Avenue, will stand trial on two counts of indecent assault and one count of corruption of a minor in connection with the alleged June 20 incident at his store along Monongahela Avenue. According to police, Patel fondled an 8-year-old girl, touching her chest and her private parts. He also allegedly "French kissed" the young customer.
The incident was caughton Patel's surveillance video, police said. After Tuesday's preliminary hearing before Judge Edward Burnett, filling in for Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin, the girl's father said the alleged incident was his worst nightmare. "You wouldn't expect some-thing like this," the man said. He said the convenience store is frequented by many young children, just like his daughter and her 7-year-old friend, who reportedly was with the girl June 20.
"It's hard to swallow," the father said. "I've got a lot of anger and I'm refraining and trying to be a good citizen and not doing what a normal father would."
Patel reportedly gave the girlfree candy, balloons and drinks before the alleged incident.
Upon initial questioning by police, Patel said his wife was working with him the entire day. Police said the surveillance video showed otherwise, that his wife didn't show up until later in the day, after the alleged incident.
Police said Patel also told them that he did kiss the girl on the cheek, and that she kissed him back on the cheek to thank him for the candy, but said nothing more occurred.
No date for Patel's trial has been set. The judge had ordered him to undergo a behavioral analysis.
He remains in Allegheny County Jail.
The girl's father said she is undergoing counseling.
McKeesport Daily News July 20, 2005
Girl hurt in bike accident recovering
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A young Glassport girl injured in a bicycle accident is recovering at home.
The 13-year-old girl, who was not identified, was riding her bike in Glassport when she ran into a parked pickup truck Sunday just after 3 p.m.
Police said Tuesday that the girl had been treated and released and will recover from her injuries. Reportedly, the girl slid on some gravel at the bottom of the street before smacking into the truck which was parked on Harrison Street.
Witnesses said she lost control of her bike coming down a hill on Erie Avenue.
Weather conditions delayed medical helicopter transportation, so the youth was taken to a Pittsburgh hospital by ambulance.
Police said the girl was not wearing a helmet. In Pennsylvania, only children under 12 must wear a helmet by law. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, bicycle helmets can reduce head injuries by 85 percent. NHTSA statistics say more than 600 bicyclists die in the U.S. every year. Approximately 540,000 visit emergency rooms, 67,000 of which have head injuries.
The NHTSA and CPSC offer several tips to keep children safe while bicycling:
Always wear a helmet that fits snugly and sits flat on the head.
Make sure the bicycle is properly adjusted. Children should be able to stand over the top tube of the bike. Parts should be secure.
Always check the brakes before taking off. Wear clothes that make you visible to motorists. Don't bike at night. If you must, use CPSC-approved reflectors, lights and reflective clothing.
Stay alert and be on the lookout for obstacles.
Ride on the right side in a straight predict-able path. Young children should not ride in the street unsupervised.
Check for traffic.
Learn and obey traffic laws.
McKeesport Daily News July 23, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Fun To Be A Kid Day supporters thanked
I would like to thank all the children who showed up for the first Glassport Fun To Be A Kid Day.
I would like to also thank all the businesses that contributed to the success of this event, along with Rose and Terry DeMarco for all the work they did in the collection of donated money and prizes for the children.
Thank you, children, for coming and celebrating our community. Also thank you to the many volunteers who came out to help.
Michael A. Ksiazek Glassport
McKeesport Daily News July 23, 2005
Glassport
Reliance event is today
Reliance Hose Co.'s barbecue, car wash and yard sale is today at the fire station.
Ordinance to be enforced
All property owners are reminded that Glassport ordinance prohibits property owners from allowing grass, weeds or any vegetation that is not edible or planted for a useful or ornamental purpose to exceed six inches in height.
The maxi-mum fine for the violation is $1,000.
Keep vehicles off streets
Residents on Iowa Avenue between West Alley and Fifth Street are reminded to keep their vehicles off the road between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. while the stretch of road is being asphalted. The project began Friday.
McKeesport Daily News July 26, 2005
McKeesport man arrested for link to Glassport arson
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A McKeesport man has been arrested in connection with an arson in Glassport.
William Harper, 29, of Jenny Lind Street, is charged with arson, burglary, criminal mischief and risking a catastrophe. Police said Harper was arrested last week after an investigation into a June 10 couch fire at an apartment along the 500 block of Eighth Street in Glassport. The fire was put out by Glassport's Citizen's Hose Co. No. 1.
The investigation was conducted by Allegheny County Police Department Arson Squad, county fire marshals and Glassport police. Police said Harper set a couch on fire in the home of a woman with whom he formerly had a relationship. The woman was not home at the time.
According to a police affidavit, Harper allegedly assaulted and threatened to kill the woman earlier that day. Harper was picked up by Allegheny County fire marshals in Baldwin and charged. He faces a preliminary hearing today before former South Allegheny area Judge Edward Burnett, who is substituting for Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin.
Damage of approximately $2,000 was done to the sofa and room, police said.
McKeesport Daily News July 28, 2005
Glassport Senior Citizen Center hopes more take advantage of its services
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Catered meals, card games and companion-ship are just a few of the things seniors can enjoy at Glassport's Senior Citizen Center.
In the past several months, attendance has been low at the center, which is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. along Monongahela Avenue. Borough officials and Lifespan, the group that administers the facility, said the center has far too much to offer to be visited by only a handful of borough residents daily.
Ethel Davis, project coordinator, said the center has a daily hot meal catered through the Allegheny County Department of Aging. For a $1.50 donation, seniors can enjoy a full meal and dessert, focused around U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. Stuffed cabbage, car-rots, rolls and a Klondike is an example of a popular menu from last week.
When they're not eating, the seniors play games, shuffleboard, pool and the like, as well as work on puzzles. Some watch TV, while others participate in events such as line dancing. Others just sit and talk.
Lifespan Director Peggy Vollmer said the group has operated the center for more than four years. Over time, attendance dropped off. "We're losing some of the older seniors and we need to attract younger seniors," Vollmer said.
Senior Jean Sanutelli made it out for stuffed cabbage but said she doesn't visit the center nearly as much as she used to. "It's just too hot to walk now," Sanutelli said. "We used to come down every day. They treat us very good. I have such a wonderful time when I do come."
Vollmer said seniors should make a point to stay active. "A person stays younger if they keep doing things, if they get out around other people," said Vollmer, a registered nurse. Councilman Ed Mihoces agreed. He gets down to the senior citizen center almost every day. "Others should come," Mihoces said. "All we usually have is six or eight people."
Mayor Thomas Urbanski said the borough recently secured a $5,000 grant from state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-West Mifflin, to refurbish the center. Work should get under way in upcoming months.
Urbanski said Glassport has just as many senior citizens as neighboring communities Port Vue and Liberty. For some reason, Urbanski said, the borough's program just isn't as active as its neighbors, something he and council are looking to change.
Lifespan operates the center through funding from Allegheny County Department of Aging, and donations.
McKeesport Daily News July 28, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
John Swantek, 40, of Glassport, was cited for disorderly conduct Tuesday night along Sixth Street, police said.
Driving under suspension
Two people have been charged with driving under suspension, police said.
Husin Mossa, 43, of McKeesport, was arrested early Wednesday morning on Monongahela Avenue.
Kurt Miller, 51, of Glassport, was arrested Tuesday night on Ohio Avenue.
McKeesport Daily News July 28, 2005
Fire rips through Glassport
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer July 28, 2005
Firefighters from across the Mon Valley worked feverishly this morning to contain a blaze that ignited along Monongahela Aenue in Glassport. (Cindy Shegan Keeley)
Several Glassport buildings sustained heavy damage in a fire this morning along Monongahela Avenue as nearly an entire block was involved in the blaze.
Initial reports indicated that the fire broke out just after 7 a.m. at a former tattoo shop along the 500 block of Monongahela, which now includes an empty storefront and second-floor apartments.
Reportedly, a man and his family were asleep in one of the apartments when he awakened to the smell of smoke. The man was able to evacuate his family without injury, Glassport police said. Advertisement
The flames and smoke quickly spread to adjoining buildings, including China Park Restaurant and Donut Center.
A brick house along Oak Alley, currently unoccupied but in the process of being remodeled, also was hit hard by the flames.
Residents from across Oak Alley watched as the smoke billowed out of the burning structures.
"That was up in five minutes," one man said, pointing to the brick house.
"Not even five; it went quick," a woman added.
Firefighters from Glassport No. 1 and 2 were assisted at this morning's scene by departments from all over the Mon Valley, including Jefferson Hills, West Mifflin, Liberty, Dravosburg, McKeesport, White Oak and Bettis crews.
Crews from Duquesne Light and Dominion Peoples also were at the scene. Several power lines were dangling close to the ground near Oak Alley, adding another element of danger for firefighters and other emergency personnel.
Monongahela Avenue was closed for blocks to give firefighters unimpeded access to the rapidly spreading block of blazing buildings.
Smoke lingered in thick clouds as firefighters attacked the blaze from all angles with multiple ladder trucks.
Despite the smoke, flames and a blinding early morning sun, approximately 100 Glassport residents lined the sidewalks of Monongahela Avenue and watched as the fire crews battled the blaze.
Firefighters remained on the scene as of presstime.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette July 29, 2005
Fire ravages Glassport; resident arrested for arson
Friday, July 29, 2005
By Wade Malcolm, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Allegheny County police said a man huffing lighter fluid started a fire that tore through the Glassport business district yesterday, destroying two buildings, damaging three others and leaving five families homeless.
Buster Harper, 28, of Glassport, was arraigned at the district judge's office in Glassport shortly after the blaze in the 500 block of Monongahela Avenue was extinguished.
County fire marshals and police charged him with risking a catastrophe, 14 counts of reckless endangerment, one count of criminal mischief and one count of arson and related offenses, according to county police Assistant Superintendent James Morton.
Police said that Harper was huffing lighter fluid when he fell asleep. He awoke and spilled the fluid, tried to clean it up and then lighted a pipe, igniting the blaze.
Relatives who lived with Harper said they saw him fleeing the scene. McKeesport police found him at the home of his brother, David, in the 200 block of Ann Street, around 11 a.m.
Firefighters needed nearly five hours to control the blaze. Fifteen firefighters required medical treatment, including two who were transported to a hospital.
The fire began around 7:30 a.m. At least nine departments responded, with at least another four on standby, and it took until after 11 a.m. to get it under control.
The American Red Cross provided food and clothing to the five affected families, who have found temporary housing with relatives. All occupants of the buildings escaped, and there were no reported injuries to civilians.
Most of the injured firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation and heat-related symptoms. One suffered an arm laceration and one a facial burn, said Kathy Roadman of Clairton Emergency Medical Service.
At the request of firefighters, Duquesne Light Co. cut power to the fire scene. The entire Glassport business district lost power between 10 and 11 a.m. Power within a four-block radius of the fire on Monongahela Avenue was out until 2:50 p.m.
Glassport Police Chief Howard Kifer reported the fire when he noticed flames and smoke shooting out of 536 Monongahela Ave. while en route to the police station for the start of his shift.
He said he entered the building and saw flames and smoke pouring into a stairwell leading to an apartment upstairs.
Glassport Fire Chief Wayne Lewis said the upstairs area, toward the back of the building, is where the most intense flames were concentrated.
Buster Harper's nephew, Clint Harper, 19, of Glassport, also lived in that apartment with his mother, Linda Perry, and younger brother Chase, 12.
When his uncle woke up the family and warned of the fire around 7:30, Clint Harper said he left his bedroom, looked down the hallway and saw flames originating from either the kitchen or his uncle's room. Without grabbing any of their belongings, the family rushed out of the building, unharmed.
Hours later, as firefighters began to turn off their hoses, the family's entire second-floor apartment lay in ash and rubble.
It was the second time the family had been through a fire, Clint Harper said.
"But it wasn't like this," he said, recalling a fire at the family's former Oil City home. "A lot of our stuff was salvageable. This is literally everything."
Harper's mother parked her car behind the building. Rubble crushed the vehicle and the heat melted its windshield.
Carol Wagner, owner of a doughnut shop next door, was relieved to find at least one part of her business untouched: the cash register. She said she will try to serve her regular morning customers today at her diner in the 800 block of Monongahela Avenue.
(Wade Malcolm can be reached at wmalcolm@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1652.)
McKeesport Daily News July 29, 2005
Glassport man faces charges in Thursday's fire
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer July 29, 2005
Firefighters from throughout the Mon Valley battled Thursday morning's blaze along Monongahela Avenue in Glassport.
A Glassport man is accused of starting a fire that injured more than a dozen firefighters, destroyed several buildings, damaged some businesses, and left his own family homeless. Buster F. Harper, 28, of Monongahela Avenue, allegedly caught his apartment on fire Thursday morning after huffing lighter fluid. He was arraigned just eight hours after the fire broke out, only an hour or so after firefighters cleared the scene.
According to a police affidavit, Harper said in a written statement that he was in the family's dining room huffing lighter fluid and passed out. When he awoke, Harper told police, he spilled the lighter fluid and tried to clean it up. He then lit a pipe, which ignited the fluid, police said. Harper's sister, her children and a young cousin were in the apartment at the time of the blaze, which broke out just after 7 a.m. at the Monongahela Avenue apartment.
Family members said Harper woke them up and told them about the fire. He then reportedly disappeared and later was apprehended by police.
Although the family made it out alive, Harper's cousin sustained a small burn on her arm, and their pet turtles died in the blaze.
Clint Harper, Buster Harper's nephew, said he didn't have time to grab anything because he wanted to make sure everyone got out safely. He started back up the stairs for his turtles, but it was too late.
"I don't know how but the building just went up (in flames)," he said Thursday afternoon as he glanced across the street at the rubble that used to be his second-story apartment .
The family had lived above a vacant storefront at 536 Monongahela Ave. for about three weeks. In that time, they had renovated a bathroom and painted the entire apartment.
Clint Harper said they don't have insurance. His mother's new car was destroyed when the building collapsed on it and fire scorched what was left. Mary Ann Bartko, daughter of the building's owner, said her father didn't keep insurance on the property.
"We'll make it," Clint Harper said. "I don't care what was in our house, I just wanted my family out."
The fire quickly spread from the apartment to adjoining businesses, a duplex behind it, and a vacant but newly remodeled brick house at 541 Oak St. The duplex was burned nearly to the ground.
Steve Chupinka, a broker at K&S Real Estate at 538 Monongahela Ave., said his business, located next to where the fire broke out, sustained only water and smoke damage. He owns the duplex behind it, though, which he called a total loss.
Other businesses on the block include Glassport's Senior Citizen Center, a lawyer's office, Donut Center, China Park restaurant and Geary. The Donut Center and China Park reportedly sustained damage, although estimates were unavailable Thursday afternoon.
Chupinka thanked area firefighters for their tireless efforts at the scene.
"I give them a hell of a lot of credit," he said. "It was an unbelievable job they did."
Dozens of firefighters worked from Thursday morning into the late afternoon. Four hours after the blaze started, crews still were spraying hot spots.
Clairton EMS said 17 firefighters sustained minor injuries such as heat exhaustion, scrapes, and small burns. They were treated at the scene.
Two were transported to area hospitals for heat exhaustion, including a Clairton firefighter who was hooked to an IV and taken away on a stretcher.
Firefighters from Glassport No. 1 and 2 were assisted at the scene by departments from all over the Mon Valley, including Clairton, Jefferson Hills, West Mifflin, Liberty, Dravosburg, McKeesport, White Oak and Bettis plant.
Buster Harper was arraigned Thursday afternoon before former South Allegheny area Judge Edward Burnett, who is filling in for Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin.
Harper is charged with reckless burning, risking a catastrophe, criminal mischief, and 14 counts - for the four family members in the apartment and 10 firefighter injuries - of recklessly endangering another person.
Burnett set bond at $25,000 straight cash and ordered evaluation at a behavioral clinic.
Tribune Review July 29, 2005
Blaze shreds downtown Glassport
By Richard Byrne Reilly TRIBUNE-REVIEW Friday, July 29, 2005
A man has been charged for starting a fire in his Glassport apartment that destroyed two downtown buildings and displaced six people, authorities said. Buster Harper, 28, was charged by Allegheny County police Thursday afternoon with 14 counts of reckless endangerment and one count each of reckless burning, criminal mischief and risking a catastrophe, according to an affidavit of probable cause. He is being held in the county jail on a $25,000 cash bond.
Harper told police he was huffing lighter fluid in the apartment building in the 500 block of Monongahela Avenue and passed out. When he awoke at about 7:30 a.m., he ignited spilled lighter fluid while trying to light a pipe, according to the affidavit.
In addition to the apartment building -- which had a vacant storefront on the first floor -- an unoccupied house was destroyed. Nearby businesses -- including the Donut Center, K&S Real Estate and the China Park restaurant -- sustained smoke and water damage.
Eleven firefighters were treated at the scene, and two more were treated at Jefferson Regional Medical Center. Injuries ranged from smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion to minor scrapes and bruises, said Glassport Volunteer Fire Chief Wayne Lewis.
"Our guys encountered a lot of heat here, but it could have been worse," said Lewis, drenched in sweat and exhausted from fighting the fire.
Live power lines that melted from the heat and fell into the street posed a hazard to the 60 firefighters from nine municipalities that battled the blaze. Duquesne Light Co. technicians temporarily turned off the power to all of Glassport so firefighters could maneuver pumper trucks and aerial engines on the streets in front and in the alley behind the burning buildings.
"Power lines were exploding from the fire. There were wires falling on wires, and flames were shooting everywhere," said Glassport police Lt. Ron Benoit.
"This was a bad one," said Duquesne Light worker Jerry Sirofchuck as he surveyed the remains of the buildings that littered a sidewalk and the main route through town.
Glassport Mayor Thomas Urbanski said the blaze hit the community of 4,800 people hard, pointing out that the former steel town has seen a steady decline of residents since the nearby mills closed years ago.
"Certainly we didn't need a disaster like this," Urbanski said.
Harper was staying in the second-floor apartment with his sister, Linda Perry, and her two boys, Clint, 19, and Chase, 12. Clint Harper said it was his uncle who alerted the family that the building was burning.
"We were all sleeping, and then heard Uncle Buster screaming that the house was on fire," Clint Harper said, surveying the charred remains of the apartment he and his family had moved into three weeks ago. He said everything the family owned was destroyed, including his mother's new KIA Rio sedan that was parked behind the apartment.
The family did not have insurance, said Clint Harper, adding that his mother -- who works double shifts as a bartender at two taverns to support the family -- was particularly saddened because her mother had recently died and all her old photographs were lost in the blaze.
A man who lives nearby, Raymond Schultz, 43, said the community would pull together and help the victims any way they could.
"People will pitch in," Schultz said. "That's the way its always been around here."
Glassport police Chief Howard Kifer did not return phone calls regarding the fire.
Richard Byrne Reilly can be reached at rreilly@tribweb.com or (412) 380-5625.
McKeesport Daily News July 29, 2005
Glassport HS '55 meeting planned
Glassport High School Class of 1955 will gather Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the La Romano Lounge in Glassport for a 50th reunion planning meeting.
The reunion is slated Sept. 3 at the Seven Springs Golf Course in Elizabeth. A social is planned for Sept. 2 at the golf course for classmates and their guests.
Serving on the reunion committee are Lavina Randolph Kerklo, chairperson, Phil Dunst, Al LoBue and John (red) McCullough. Meetings are open to interested classmates. Deadline for reservations is Aug. 15.
Additional information may be obtained by calling Kerklo at 412-673-2648 or any committee member.
McKeesport Daily News July 29, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Coaches out of control at games
I've been going to baseball games ever since my sons played. My grandchildren have been playing since the age of 5; now they are 14. I also have gone to their games all these years. The joy of watching them play is incredible.
Sure, sports at this age are competitive, but the game and competition should be between the kids. When coaches scream and yell at their own players, then call the other team names, something is terribly wrong. These men should be thrown out of sports forever. They take the fun out of the game. All they care about is winning for themselves, not the kids.
This takes me to a Pony game played at Boston Field. This coaching staff was not only rude to the other team, but called the players names. I'm not going to mention teams, but I hope the responsible coaching staff is reading this. See my name and you will know who you are. I could say a lot more, but won't.
Lillian Viehl - Glassport
McKeesport Daily News July 30, 2005
Glassport shows gratitude to firefighters
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter
Glassport's Citizens Hose Co. No 1 Chief Wayne Lewis said he was overwhelmed by the support the community gave firefighters battling the massive blaze along Monongahela Avenue.
"We were overwhelmed, but it didn't surprise me with the businesses in Glassport," Lewis said.
Several businesses sent food, water, even cartons of cigarettes to firefighters from nearly a dozen area companies fighting Thursday's fire.
"We always appreciate that," Lewis said. "We had enough to feed 40 firefighters until 7 p.m.
La Romana, just a few blocks down, sent rigatoni and salad, manager Maria Gooch said. She said her father was a fire-fighter for Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 in Glassport, and she helps the borough's two companies as much as she can. "We told them whatever they needed," Gooch said.
Rite Aid manager Joe Shaffer said his drug store donated cases of bottled water after a firefighter's wife came to buy them. Shaffer said the woman had loaded up a cart with water when Shaffer offered the cases for free. Then two carts were lined with garbage bags, filled with ice, stocked with water, and pushed down to the fire along the 500 block of Monongahela Avenue.
Council President Terry DiMarco said the support was amazing. "The community really came together," he said. It wasn't only the business support that Lewis said was appreciated, Glassport firefighters also were grateful for the many area fire companies that showed up to help. "It's like a brotherhood," Lewis said. "We're always thereto back each other up." Firefighters from Glassport No. 1 and 2 were assisted at the scene by departments from all over the Mon Valley, including Clairton, Jefferson Hills, West Mifflin, Liberty, Dravosburg, McKeesport, White Oak and Bettis plant. "It was a very large turn-out," the chief added.
The firefighters quickly went to work dousing the flames that quickly engulfed an apartment building, a duplex and a newly remodeled but vacant home. Fifteen firefighters were treated at the scene for minor injuries. Only two were taken to area hospitals and since have been released.
"I thought the personnel did a great job," Lewis said. "There is no doubt in mymind that the whole block could've gone up."
DiMarco agreed. "They really helped avert something that could've been a huge disaster," DiMarco said. Adjoining businesses K & S Real Estate and the Donut Center sustained some smoke and water damage. China Park sustained minor smoke damage. At the end of the block, Glassport's Senior Citizen Center, an attorney's office and Geary Distributing reportedly were unscathed.
Lewis also thanked the many employers, including his own, of the volunteer firefighters for allowing their workers to leave work to fight the fire. "Most employers are very generous," Lewis said. "They say `Go."'
DiMarco added his thanks to Glassport's own firefighters. "You couldn't ask for more than those firefighters do," the council president said.
Buster F. Harper, 28, of Glassport, was charged in connection with Thursday's fire. Harper lived in the apartment where the blaze originated, police said. According to a police affidavit, Harper said in a written statement that he was in the family's dining room huffing lighter fluid and passed out. When he awoke, Harper told police, he spilled the lighter fluid and tried to clean it up. He then lit a pipe which ignited the blaze, police said. He faces a preliminary hearing Tuesday.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette August 4, 2005
Glassport shop owner hardly misses a beat after fire
Thursday, August 04, 2005
By Margaret Smykla, Tri-State Sports and News Service
As Carol Wagner watched smoke engulf her Dumont's Donut Center as a fire raged in Glassport's business district last Thursday, a firefighter asked if she wanted him to remove anything from the shop.
"If the register's OK, I'll take that," she told him.
He carried out the cash register and, an hour later, the lottery machine and the instant tickets vending machine in the shop were rescued. Everything was taken to Wagner's other store, Carol's Cafe at 840 Monongahela Ave.
The next day, customers stopped there for doughnuts, which are made and delivered by Dunkin' Donuts.
"That's how faithful they are," said Wagner, 46, of Brownsville.
"I have the best customers."
On Tuesday, Buster Harper, the man charged with starting the four-alarm fire, appeared before senior District Judge Edward Burnett, who was filling in for District Judge Armand Martin.
Harper waived his case to Common Pleas Court. No court date has been scheduled.
County fire marshals and police have charged him with risking a catastrophe, 14 counts of reckless endangerment, one count of criminal mischief and one count of arson and related offenses.
The fire left Wagner's doughnut shop at 534 Monongahela Ave. with smoke and water damage and a collapsed ceiling.
Destroyed in the blaze in the 500 block of Monongahela Avenue were an occupied apartment above the doughnut shop, a building that housed apartments and a vacant storefront at 536 Monongahela Ave., and an unoccupied duplex at 539-541 Oak Alley owned by K&S Real Estate.
Glassport police Chief Howard Kifer said the nine firefighters and other people who suffered mostly smoke inhalation and minor burns had recovered. No estimate of the cost of damage was available.
Harper, 28, was living in the second floor apartment at 536 Monongahela Ave. with his sister's family. Allegheny County Police said he confessed to spilling lighter fluid he was huffing, trying to clean it up, and then lighting a pipe, igniting the blaze.
Despite her loss, Wagner, who owned the doughnut shop for three years, is striving for "business as usual."
The shop's three employees are working at the cafe, which Wagner reopened in October. She hopes to begin serving breakfast in the fall.
While the cash register is being used, a lottery representative shut down the lottery business because the location changed, but will shortly deliver new machines to the cafe.
Wagner said the landlord of the building housing the doughnut shop told her he would either repair the structure or tear it down.
If the former occurs, she'll move back in, she said.
Otherwise, "I'll just stay where I'm at."
McKeesport Daily News August 5, 2005
State-of-the-art new equipment boosting Glassport's PennCoil
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer
Pennsylvania Electric Coil in Glassport has acquired a new state-of-the-art automated electric form coil process. The two new machines cost $1.6 million and make PennCoil the only company in the U.S. to use them for this kind of work.
PennCoil, located along Ohio Avenue, is one of the oldest electric coil manufacturers in the country and produces and repairs high voltage and specialty coils to be placed in large, industrial use motors and generators for steel mills, utility companies, and more.
General Manager Brad Child said the machines, an automatic taping machine and a spreader, represent a "quantum leap" for the coil-forming process, an industry that hasn't seen much change over the years.
"This is a technology that has been around for 100 years, and besides some advances in insulation and the product, the function of the electric motor is basically the same as it was when George Westinghouse first started building them," he explained.
The automatic taping machine was built in Switzerland and allows employees to put electric insulation on the coils with a machine instead of by hand.
"It is a dramatic labor savings and an improvement in quality," Child said. "It puts the insulation on more uniformly."
The spreader comes from France and forms the coils into the shape necessary to fit in a motor.
Child said the machines came arrived last November and have been improving productivity ever since.
"This allows us to compete with low-cost manufacturers in the south," he said.
It also has improved the quality of the product.
"Everything has to be just right (in motors)," Child said.
PennCoil has been working out of its Ohio Avenue location, in a former Westinghouse factory, since 2001.
Before that, the company operated at a facility along Route 51. It was founded in 1917 and employs approximately 80 people.
For more information, visit www.penncoil.com.
McKeesport Daily News August 5, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Praise comes in wake of fire
Recently we had a bad fire on the main street in Glassport.
I just wanted to thank the Glassport firemen and all the other firemen of our surrounding communities who were down there fighting the fire. You men deservedly earn all the praise you get. You people definitely took a bad incident and kept it from turning into a huge disaster.
I also wanted to thank the businesses and the townspeople that brought food and water to the firemen. On such a hot day, it was really needed. I had firemen come up to me and praise the people and businesses for their much-needed assistance with the doling out of food and water.
As an official of Glassport Borough, it really makes me proud to live in a town like this. Some people say that our town is in a state of decay, but I say with people like our firemen and residents who came our to help our firemen, and business owners that also helped, shows me that this town is far from deteriorating.
Thank you for your dedication.
Terry Di Marco
Glassport council president
McKeesport Daily News August 8, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Glassport firefighters offer thanks
The officers and members of Citizen's Hose Co. No. 1 would like to thank each and every one who lent a helping hand during our time of need July 28.
The firefighters on scene that day faced a tough challenge. Adding in the temperature outside, it was very comforting to know that all of you were right there to help when thefirefighters came out for rehab. That was a true example of how tight this community really is and we are very proud to be able to serve you.
Once again, we say thanks. Your caring will never go unnoticed.
Fire Chief Wayne Lewis
President Nicholas K. Sorrentino
Glassport
McKeesport Daily News August 9, 2005
Glassport
Harassment noted
Janet Cogar, 44, of Glassport, was cited for harassment early Saturday morning for allegedly making repeated calls to 911.
McKeesport Daily News August 10, 2005
Glassport selects Foster to take D'Angelo's seat
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport has a new councilman.
At a special meeting Monday night, council appointed Jim Foster to fill the seat left vacant by the July resignation of John D'Angelo, who stepped down after 27 years of service.
Council approved the appointment by a 5-1 vote, with Michael Ksiazek voting no.
Foster, who previously had served as a Glassport councilman, got the nod over Mick Stetor and Jim Rocco, who also had submitted letters to the borough seeking consideration for the post.
Council President TerryDiMarco said Foster was an excellent choice. "I think he's going to do a good job, (because) he did a good job when he was on council before," DiMarco said. "He has experience."
Foster was sworn in Monday night by Mayor Thomas Urbanski.
D'Angelo lost his bid for mayor in May's Democratic primary.
He said there were several reasons for his resignation, many of them concerning his discontent with current council.
Foster ran for a council seat in the Democratic Primary, losing his bid to leading vote-getters Councilman Eugene Skerkoski, Paul Trunzo and Jamie Colecchi.
McKeesport Daily News August 11, 2005
After the fire
Glassport businesses recovering
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Meiling Lu wiped down the windows outside her Chinese food restaurant. Just down the block, police caution tape stretched from a badly burned building to the sidewalk. Where there used to be a vacant store-front, there's now a caved-in pile of charred timbers. Where her neighboring business used to sell doughnuts every day, there's a large closed sign.
Lu's China Park was just one of the businesses damaged by a fire that ravaged the 500 block of Glassport's Monongahela Avenue two weeks ago today. It took one week before China Park, which sustained mostly smoke and water damage, was able to re-open its doors. "Things are going back to normal now finally," Lu said as she prepared for the lunch rush. "Still, some customers don't know we're back open. I hope it will pick up soon."
Next door, the Donut Center wasn't so lucky. It moved down the street to Carol's Cafe, 840 Monongahela Ave. Shop employees said it's likely the old Donut Center will be torn down, although the business will continue to sell coffee and doughnuts at the cafe.
Bartender/waitress Jamie Gouker said the old crowd that frequented the Donut Center still comes into Carol's Cafe for their morning caffeine fix. It isn't quite the same though. "Some of the customers said they liked it better down there because it was where they used to hang out," Gouker said. In fact, the day of the fire, a waitress was working at the Donut Center, which opened at 5 a.m., when police officers came in and evacuated the shop due to the blaze. No one was injured.
Another 500 block business, K&S Realty, sustained minor smoke and water damage and has reopened for house hunters.
Geary Distributing is right next door to China Park but reported no damage.
A Glassport man is awaiting a trial after being accused of starting the blaze that badly damaged the block. Buster Harper, 28, of Monongahela Avenue, is charged with reckless burning, risking a catastrophe, criminal mischief, and 14 counts of recklessly endangering another person.
According to a police affidavit, Harper said in a written statement that he was in his sister's dining room in her 500-block Glassport apartment when he passed out while huffing lighter fluid. When he awoke, Harper reportedly told police, he spilled the lighter fluid and tried to clean it up. He then lit a pipe, which ignited the fluid, police said.
The fire quickly spread from the apartment at 536 Monongahela Ave. to the vacant storefront below and to adjoining businesses, a duplex behind it, and a vacant but newly remodeled brick house at 541 Oak St. The duplex was burned nearly to the ground.
Dozens of firefightersworked from morning into the late afternoon. Four hours after the blaze started, crews still were spraying hot spots.
Clairton EMS said 17 fire-fighters sustained minor injuries such as heat exhaustion, scrapes and small burns. They were treated at the scene. Two were transported to area hospitals for heat exhaustion.
Firefighters from Glassport No. 1 and 2 were assisted at the scene by departments from all over the Mon Valley, including Clairton, Jefferson Hills, West Mifflin, Liberty, Dravosburg, McKeesport, White Oak and Bettis plant.
Harper was arrested just hours after the blaze.
McKeesport Daily News August 11, 2005
Glassport
Public hearing scheduled
Borough council has scheduled a public hearing prior to its monthly meeting Tuesday at 7 p.m. to discuss the demolition of the following:
304-310 Sixth Street, lot and block No. 558C319, currently titled in the name of Raymond N. Sanchas
707 Peach Alley, lot and block No. 558D312.
Second Street, lot and block No. 557A59.
McKeesport Daily News August 12, 2005
Feast of Assumption celebration slated
Sons of Italy Lodge 941 in Glassport is hosting its 49th Annual Feast of Assumption Celebration Saturday and Sunday at the lodge, Sixth and Allegheny streets.
Featured at the feast will be games, entertainment and homemade Italian foods.
On Sunday, ravioli, spaghetti and gnocchi dinners will be served in the hall from noon to 6 p.m.
The Letter Carrier Band will perform Saturday at 7 p.m. and the 38-piece Redcoats Marching Band is slated to play Sunday at 7 p.m.
A fire-works display close the festival Sunday at 10 p.m. at Glassport Stadium.
McKeesport Daily News August 12, 2005
Glassport AL 443 announced picnic
Glassport American Legion Post 443 will gather for its family picnic Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. in Dravosburg Ball Park. The post home will be closed on Sunday.
The post business meeting is slated for Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. Highlighting the meeting will be the installation officers.
McKeesport Daily News August 13, 2005
Police turn to TIP sheets
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Stair Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport and Clairton police are trying to make it as easy as possible for residents to do their part in the fight against crime. The neighboring departments are distributing TIP forms for residents to write down the crimes they see going on in their neighborhoods. TIP stand for Turn In Pushers.
The forms give residents a chance to report crimes anonymously and without fear. The sheet includes information such as suspect and vehicle descriptions and details about the incident. "It's going to help us because people are afraid to come in and confirm that `Yes, my neighbor is doing this,'" Glassport Police Chief Howard Kifer said. "They are afraid to go to court, afraid of retaliation, but they want to get involved. Now they can do that."
The forms can be found at each town's municipal building and police department. In Glassport, they also will be available at Fuzz's, at Sixth Street and Vermont Avenue, and other local businesses to be announced.
Clairton City Manager Ralph Imbrogno said the city has used the TIP sheets for some time but is now marketing them to the public. "It's a valuable tool for police. It gives them more eyes. They can't be everywhere all the time," Imbrogno said. "It gives folks a subtle way to be the watchdog for police, and the police welcome that."
Clairton's TIP sheet lists several activities residents should be on the lookout for common signs of drug dealing.
Unusual late-night traffic or activity.
Frequent, brief stops by dozens of strange cars.
Exchanges of money and packages from car windows.
Car horn "signals."
Sharing of a substance among a group, such as passing around a marijuana cigarette.
Imbrogno said he hopes residents will make use of the sheets. "Basically, the TIP sheet is an opportunity for citizens in the community to tip off the police anonymously, if they choose, on what they perceive as criminal activity in their neighborhood, the downtown area or anywhere in the community," Imbrogno said.
For more information, con-tact Clairton police at 412-233-6211 or Glassport police at 412-672-4514.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette August 18, 2005
Sons of Italy festive but fewer
Feast of Assumption a 49-year tradition Thursday, August 18, 2005
By Margaret Smykla, Tri-State Sports and News Service
At last weekend's Sons of Italy Festival in Glassport, celebrants roamed food and game booths on blocked-off Sixth Street and Allegheny Avenue as Italian music played. Inside the Sons of Italy Lodge 941, ravioli, gnocchi, and spaghetti fed those celebrating the weekend before Monday's Feast of the Assumption.
Capping the festivities Sunday evening was the traditional march to Glassport stadium to the beat of the Italian marches of the Redcoat Band, of New Castle, to watch Zambelli fireworks.
Louis D'Angelo, 66, past lodge president and grandson of lodge charter member Luigi D'Angelo, estimated there were 200 marchers, a number down from the 500 marchers of past years.
"Pride in heritage, that's the concept of the whole thing," he said, lamenting the generational decline.
But the biggest loss, he said, was in the longtime members and festivalgoers who died this year: Anthony "Chuck" D'Angelo, Major Wojciechowski, and Frank Sinatra -- no, not that one -- who served as master of ceremonies at the fireworks for more than 10 years.
To those who grew up in the lodge's tradition of family and community get-togethers, the annual event is equally about celebrating one's Italian heritage and reconnecting with the past.
Frank "Ace" Capuzzi Jr., 55, principal of New England Elementary School in West Mifflin, attends every year "because people come out of the woodwork," referring to friends and neighbors from his youth in Glassport.
Among his friends in attendance were Tom Ogurchak, 55, of Liberty, and Tony Borrelli, 56, of Cleveland.
Ogurchak recalled the festivals' special status as the last celebration of the summer, signalling the start of school in two weeks.
A Slovak, he attended all the lodge events with his neighbors, the Borrellis.
To sustain the festival-going tradition and visit family, Tony Borrelli and his wife drove in from Cleveland, while sons drove in from Dayton, Ohio, and Washington, D.C.
Another former resident, Frank Zupi, 73, of Saline, Mich., plans his vacations around the festivals to see friends and relatives.
For Nick Martino, 88, of Pleasant Hills, son of a former lodge president, Luigi Martino (1939-1943), the music stirs memories of his own 35 years playing clarinet in the lodge band, now disbanded.
Recollections of old times also were sparked in President Joe Borrelli, 85, son of Nicola Borrelli, the first president (1919-1935), whose earliest involvement with the lodge was grinding sausage by hand for the meetings.
"I watched the old Italians argue," he said of his boyhood experience.
The festivals began 49 years ago when "Little Italy" thrived in the 700 to 900 blocks of Monongahela Avenue and "up on the hill" of the prosperous town of iron- and steel-related industries.
But as Glassport's fortunes declined, so did the lodge's, down from roughly 400 regular and 600 social members in the 1950s to about, respectively, 225 and 400 today.
Although a new generation tells Joe Borrelli they "don't have the time" to be members, there's reason to hope that will improve.
Jacquie Hruska, 14, of Elizabeth, who brought friend Sarah Pelco, 13, to enjoy the weekend's food and carnival atmosphere, said she wanted to continue attending the festivals when she grows up.
She might even become a lodge member one day, joining many in her family.
For next year's 50th festival, Tina Farine, 49, of Pleasant Hills, plans to call the younger members from the membership list and encourage them to get involved.
McKeesport Daily News August 17, 2005
Glassport officials target buildings for demolition
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport will add several buildings to its demolition list.
At Tuesday night's meeting, council held a public hearing on the proposed demolition of structures deemed unsafe. Grants will be sought through Twin Rivers Council of Governments' demolition program to tear down the buildings on the list.
Once the price tag for the project is determined, council will have a better idea of how many structures can be torn down next year.
All properties were determined by the borough to "be a nuisance and pose a threat to the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the borough."
Mayor Thomas Urbanski said he hopes taking a strong stance on unsafe properties can help prevent tragedy. "We're trying to eliminate some of these things that can happen where one building goes up (in flames) and then the next and the next," Urbanski said.
The mayor referenced a multi-structure blaze that broke out in the borough last month and spread to several buildings along Monongahela Avenue before being extinguished.
Properties added to the demolition list include: 304-310 Sixth St., 707 Peach Alley, 508 Monongahela Ave., and a property along Ohio Avenue which used to be St. Cecilia Church.
Last known property owners were contacted and given the opportunity to speak at the pub- lic hearing. Several other property owners originally on the list showed up and said they intend to repair their properties, and they were given 30 days to make significant improvements.
In other business, council gave final approval to a new ordinance designed to control disorderly tenants and unresponsive landlords. Council President Terry DiMarco said other communities have a similar ordinance which gives the borough the power to fine landlords of disorderly tenants. If police are called for incidents three times, the landlord must evict the tenant or face a fine.
Councilmen said they hope the ordinance will be a good tool for the borough and said landlords should expect a strict enforcement.
Also Tuesday, council discussed the borough's senior citizen center. They said the building has been closed since the aforementioned fire and anticipate it will reopen in the next two weeks. Some minor damage reportedly was done to the kitchen area, which now needs cleaned.
Council members and the mayor also discussed trying to keep the center open longer hours. Currently, the building is opened from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a Lifespan lunch and activity program. A meeting will be scheduled with the borough's senior citizens group to discuss possibilities.
In other business, council thanked former Councilman John D'Angelo for his years of service and offered a resolution in his honor. D'Angelo stepped down last month after 22 years on council. By a council appointment, Jim Foster took his vacant seat. The resolution said council appreciated "his dedication and sacrifice to the borough."
McKeesport Daily News August 17, 2005
Glassport native wins teaching award
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A former Glassport resident has won a prestigious teaching award.
Donna Natale Unangst, a teacher in the Jamestown Area School District, recently received the 2005 Laura Woodson Teaching Award. The award is given by the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees in recognition of unselfish dedication and exemplary service.
Unangst, daughter of Frank and Mary Natale of Glassport, graduated from South Allegheny High School in 1975 and received her degree in elementary education from Penn State. Later, she earned a master's degree in reading from Slippery Rock University and an elementary principal certification from Westminster College.
Currently, Unangst works as a reading specialist teacherat Jamestown Elementary in Mercer County. She also is an adjunct professor in the education department at Thiel College in Greenville. Unangst said she was surprised when she learned she had won the Woodson award. "I didn't believe it," she said. "I remember saying in my speech that I haven't won anything since fourth-grade."
In her nomination letter, district officials said Unangst always puts her students first and makes them feel special "if that means staying after school with them, buying them new shoes or eating lunch with them. "She has dedicated her life to teaching children how to read and enjoy reading," it continued.
The letter also said that Unangst provides inspiration to disadvantaged and struggling readers. Unangst said a great deal of her job is preparing students for the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment tests. So far the district has fared very well. "When you work with kids you have to make them believe they can do it," she said.
Unangst also was nominated last spring for Who's Who Among America's Teachers for her work as a college professor.
McKeesport Daily News August 23, 2005
Vandals strike again in Glassport
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@newsemail.com
A park was vandalized over the weekend in Glassport, raising concerns about criminal mischief and reckless behavior in the borough. Officials said Ninth Street Park was marred by graffiti, likely sometime Friday night.
Council President Terry DiMarco said someone wrote in permanent ink all over the park. Words are scrawled in black marker on the doors, bleachers and concession stands at the popular baseball park. "It's a mess," DiMarco said. I
ncluded in the vandalism is the message "ECD, they're back" and "alive and well." DiMarco said he believes "ECD" refers to East Coast Destruction, a rumored group of young adults in the South Allegheny area. For a while, he said, the borough thought ECD had gone away.
Other messages included "GMB," "Glassport Lady Thugs," and a racial slur.
The park was the target of vandalism last year when bleachers were broken and doors were dented. DiMarco said the park had been open to allow children to play there.
Now, however, he said the borough will lock it up to prevent additional vandalism. "It's a shame," he said.
Also, residents are reminded that the court in the Ninth Street Park is not a skateboard park. Someone placed homemade skateboard ramps and other items inside the court, and they were removed by Glassport employees.
DiMarco said the borough solicitor advised there could be a liability issue if someone is injured because, although borough officials did not place the items there, they knew of their presence. DiMarco encouraged youngsters to utilize the borough's skate park along Harrison Street, which already has ramps and other equipment available for use.
Glassport officials also are concerned with the number of young adults and children riding bicycles and skateboards on sidewalks or in business parking lots. Recently, while leaving Rite Aid, a woman was hit by someone riding a bicycle. The woman was not injured but was shaken up by the incident,
DiMarco said. "On our main street, we have a lot of older people who shop and (cyclists) just blow by them or run into them," he added.
Chief Howard Kifer said police will enforce borough safety ordinances with citations and possible bicycle or skateboard seizure. "Downtown, the businesses' doors are right on the sidewalk," Kifer said. "Someone can just open a door and get hit. It's very dangerous."
Anyone with information on the vandalism over the weekend should contact police at 412-672-4514.
McKeesport Daily News August 23, 2005
Glassport
Public intoxication cited
Two were cited for public intoxication, police said.
John Way, 19, of Glassport, was cited early Sunday morning in the area of Broadway and Indiana avenues.
John Swantek, no age listed, of Glassport, was cited early Friday morning.
Port Vue
Theft, fraud reported
Patrick S. Szalankiewcz, 23, of Glassport, was arrested Friday on charges of fraud, theft and forgery. Police said he was apprehended along Buttermilk Hollow Road in West Mifflin shortly after 10 a.m. Szalankiewcz was wanted on a warrant.
McKeesport Daily News September 7, 2005
Glassport
DUI reported
Two people were arrested for driving under the influence, police said.
James F. Younge II, 46, of Glassport, was arrested Monday in the area of Monongahela Avenue and Sixth Street.
Ralph J. Farmerie Jr., 43, of Elizabeth, was arrested Aug. 29 in the 300 block of N. Monongahela Avenue.
Disorderly conduct cited
James Rager, 18, of Glassport, was cited Sunday morning for disorderly con-duct along Ohio Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News September 13, 2005
Glassport Women's Club plans to meet
Glassport Women's Club will open the 2005-06 year with a meeting Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Glassport Library. Donna Kurucz, president, will have charge of the business session.
The Annual Appreciation Luncheon honoring members and volunteers will be hosted by the library board officers Anne Dzurko, Jane Drogoski and Florence Gerstner.
McKeesport Daily News September 14, 2005
Glassport
Preschool has openings
Glassport United Methodist Church preschool still has a few openings for fall and spring classes. Full days and half days are available. Children ages 3 to 5 and potty-trained are welcome. Staff is trained and certified with Act 33 and 34 clearances. For more information, call 412-673-2051 or 412-672-2866.
Development group to meet
Members of Glassport Development Corp. will meet Sept. 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Polish National Alliance at the corner of Sixth Street and Indiana Avenue. Suzanne Gagliarda, coordinator from Pennsylvania Downtown Center, will speak on community revitalization.
McKeesport Daily News September 17, 2005
Glassport firefighter gets dual transplant
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Just after 6:30 a.m. Sunday, Heather McCall's phone rang. Irate, she answered determined to give the caller an earful for waking her up. Instead, McCall got the news she's been waiting years for. Her husband Michael was on the other end of the line with wonderful news. After two years, Michael was finally getting the heart and lung transplant he needs.
Michael, a Glassport fire-fighter, has been hospitalized since February due to pulmonary hypertension, which caused his heart and lungs to begin to fail.
"When he told me, I was in disbelief because we've been waiting for this call for so long," Heather said. "I said `Are you joking?' and he said that he wouldn't joke about this."
Sunday night, the organs arrived. A local 15-year-old boy died and was a perfect match for McCall's rare Type O blood.
Heather said she was amazed at the generosity of the young boy's family. She feels tremendous sympathy for their loss. "We are so grateful that in their tragedy, they arc thinking about other people," she said.
Sunday night, Michael McCall got a new set of organs after a 12-hour transplant surgery. Now, the family waits and prays while Michael recovers.
So far, so good. "I know it's all going to work out but you have to get through it," Heather said. "It only comes from the Lord, there's no other way."
After recovery, her husband will go through physical therapy. He could be home to Glassport as early as November.
His two young children an 8-year-old daughter and a 2-year-old son can't wait. "My 8-year-old is so excited," Heather said. "She already has plans for her dad, things you take for granted like going outside and playing games."
The evaluation and trans-plant surgery cost $317,000. Post-transplant medications could cost as much as $4,000 a month, something Michael's insurance doesn't cover.
Fellow firefighters from Glassport Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 are collecting donations to help the family pay for the medical bills.
Checks can be mailed to: Citizens Hose Co. No. 1, c/o Michael McCall Medical Fund, P.O. Box 126, Glassport, 15045.
Some donations already have come in, helping the family deal with day-to-day medical expenses. Michael had to take medical leave from his job as a Saturn technician last year because of his ailment.
McKeesport Daily News September 20, 2005
Glassport razing buildings
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer September 20, 2005
Two Monongahela Avenue buildings badly damaged by a fire that ignited the Glassport block in July are being leveled. Demolition is under way on a vacant storefront and the apartment above it at 536 Monongahela Ave., where the July 28 blaze started. Advertisement
Another building, which formerly housed the Donut Center, also is being razed this week. The popular coffee and donut shop moved down the street to Carol's Café after the fire rendered the building useless and unsafe.
Businesses such as China Park and K&S Real Estate sustained smoke and water damage but were able to reopen.
Glassport's Senior Citizen Center reportedly has yet to reopen after sustaining smoke damage in the kitchen area, where meals are cooked on weekdays.
A restoration service is cleaning up the center this week.
Buster F. Harper, 28, of Glassport, who lived in the apartment where the blaze originated, was arrested in connection with the incident, police said.
A dozen firefighters were injured at the scene.
According to a police affidavit, Harper said in a written statement that he was in the family's dining room huffing lighter fluid when he passed out.
When he awoke, Harper told police, he spilled the lighter fluid and tried to clean it up. He then lit a pipe, which ignited the blaze, police said.
McKeesport Daily News September 21, 2005
Skate park vandalism a concern in Glassport
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport councilors said they are concerned about vandalism and littering at the borough's new skate park.
This summer, Glassport obtained donated skating equipment, such as ramps and jumps, to place in an unused basketball court along Harrison Street.
Someone intentionally broke one of those ramps recently, Councilman James Uziel said at Tuesday night's meeting. Although street department workers were able to repair the damage, Uziel said many youths still are throwing trash under park ramps rather than placing it in trash bins. "Once you start throwing candy and snack wrappers around, you're going to get rodents," he said. "The kids are going to ruin it for themselves if they don't keep the area clean," Uziel said.
With Council President Terry DiMarco the only absentee, councilors unanimously OK'd application for a $100,000 loan, to be paid back in a minimum of five years, that will help the cashstrapped borough with budgetary issues for the remainder of the year, Uziel said.
Also Monday, council set parking bans at the corner of Bridge Street and Delaware Avenue, and at the corner of Bridge Street and Indiana Avenue, to facilitate emergency-vehicle access.
Councilman James Foster suggested borough officials look into a plan that other municipalities use to fund their volunteer fire departments. Departments would bill insurance companies for fire calls, with different fees for different services. An ordinance would be needed to move forward with the idea.
McKeesport Daily News September 27, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Several people were cited for disorderly conduct recently, police said.
John Way, 19, of Glassport, also was cited for public intoxication Friday in the area of Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue.
Thomas Bzvonik, 44, of McKeesport, also was cited for harassment Friday along the 900 block of Ohio Avenue.
David Basa, 45, of Glassport, was cited Sunday.
Public intoxication noted
Several people were cited for public intoxication recently, police said.
Leslie Kelly, 34, of Glassport, was cited Saturday night along Spruce Alley.
Monica Minyun, 21, of North Huntingdon Twp., was cited Sunday in the area of Eighth Street and Monongahela Avenue.
Frederick Anthony, 22, of Wall, also was cited for criminal mischief Friday.
McKeesport Daily News September 28, 2005
Fire rips through bowling alley
By JENNIFER R. VERTULLO, Daily News Staff Writer September 28, 2005
Glassport firefighters prepare oxygen tanks and other gear for those entering the burning bowling alley. (Cindy Shegan Keeley) Seven Glassport residents escaped injury when a fire broke out in the bowling alley located below their apartments. Residents, pulled out of bed or away from their Tuesday evening routines, lined Monongahela Avenue as they watched emergency crews extinguish flames blazing from Glassport Lanes, located at the intersection of Monongahela Avenue and Ninth Street.
Clairton firefighter Greg Huschak, who was working in Glassport's ambulance headquarters when the blaze started shortly after 9:30 p.m., said there was little time for emergency personnel to react. Police were calling for assistance at the scene before local companies were notified of the fire. "We started heading out the door as they were setting off the tones," Huschak explained. "Fire was already blowing out this front window. It started melting the siding, and the flames were coming out of a second-story window."
Police and emergency medical personnel were first to arrive on scene. They entered the burning building and brought residents to safety.
"When I went up, there were at least five people," Huschak said. "One of the ladies had a cane, and I just went down and piggy-backed her up and out."
Firefighters said the bowling alley appeared to be closed for the evening when the blaze ignited. They later learned the lanes had been closed at 9:15 p.m., approximately 20 minutes before the fire was noticed.
Several residents standing in the street said they'd left the bowling alley only one hour prior after playing a few games, and couldn't believe their eyes.
"We think it's accidental, but we're not going to rule that yet," Glassport No. 1 Citizens Hose Fire Co. Chief Wayne Lewis said this morning.
Fire officials said the blaze began in the front interior of the building, but an investigation is expected to continue through today to determine an exact cause.
A representative of the Allegheny County Fire Marshal's Office could not be reached for comment by presstime.
Elizabeth Twp. residents Tony and Marion Molinaro, who have owned the building for the past 35 years, appeared at the scene when they were informed of the blaze.
"We don't know anything," Tony Molinaro said, watching in shock as smoke billowed from broken windows and holes in the roof. "The way they're breaking and hosing, there's not going to be anything left."
The fire was under control within 45 minutes, but firefighters from Glassport's Citizens Hose and Reliance Hose companies were on scene until approximately 1:30 a.m. with volunteers from Clairton, Dravosburg, Jefferson Hills, Liberty and McKeesport.
Water and other provisions were donated by a nearby Foodland, Paul's Auto and other borough establishments.
McKeesport Daily News September 29, 2005
Glassport car break-ins prompt police warning
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A rash of automobile breakins in Glassport is prompting police to remind residents to lock their doors.
Chief Howard Kifer estimated that in the last month there have been more than a dozen break-ins to parked vehicles. The thieves usually look for an unlocked car door and steal whatever change they can grab, Kifer said.
"If the doors are locked, they'll usually just move on to the next car," Kifer said. "In Glassport, it's never hard to find one unlocked."
To prevent your car from being burglarized, Kifer stressed once again the importance of locking all car doors - and rolling up windows.
He said it also helps to park in a well-lit area and, if possible, obtain a security system like a car alarm. An alarm draws attention to the vehicle and may be enough to deter a thief from stealing. A neighbor, for example, could hear the alarm and get a description of the suspect.
In situations like these where thieves are not stealing cars, devices like the Club may not work as a deterrent. However, with a key carelessly left in the ignition, Kifer said, you never know if your car might be stolen along with your change.
Pennsylvania Auto Theft Authority offers dozens of tips to keep your car safe from thieves, including the following:
Never hide a second set of keys in your vehicle.
Don't leave valuables in plain site. Your car will be much more attractive to thieves if they want something inside.
Don't leave documents with personal information in your car, such as bank state ments or credit card bills. Thieves can use this information to steal your identity, not just your change.
Don't leave your registration or title in your car, which makes it easier for the thief to dispose of the vehicle. Instead, keep it on your person with your driver's license.
For more tips, visit www.watcbyourcar. org.
McKeesport Daily News September 29, 2005
Glassport convenience store robbed at gunpoint
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport convenience store was robbed at gunpoint.
Puffs Discount Store at 741 Monongahela Ave. was robbed Tuesday night by a lone black male, police said.
At approximately 7:44 p.m., the man, dressed in light-colored clothing, walked into the tobacco shop and showed a gun to the cashier. He then reportedly ordered two young female employees to give him the money in the lottery machine and in the registers, totaling an approximate $1,600. The robber fled on foot toward an alley behind the shop and was not seen again.
Glassport Police Chief Howar Kifer said no one was injured. "They were a little scared because of the way he walked in with the gun," Kifer said.
The suspect may have been carrying a 9 mm handgun. No other description of the robber was available.
Kifer said his officers were assisted at the scene by police from Clairton, Lincoln, Port Vue and Dravosburg, and McKeesport's K-9 unit.
Police continue to investigate the incident. Kifer asked anyone who might have seen anyone suspicious in the area Tuesday night to contact police at 412-6724514.
McKeesport Daily News October 4, 2005
Glassport
Event to benefit late chiefs grandson
Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 will host a bike/poker run Saturday to benefit Gary Haidle, the grandson of the late Fire Chief George "Bud" Harff Sr.
Sign-ups begin at 11 a.m. at the fire hall.
A $10-per-person donation includes food, beverages, prizes and a DJ.
For more information, call 412-233-0523.
Free flashlights to be distributed
Glassport American Legion Post 443 will give away flashlights to borough children, 12 and under, Oct. 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. while supplies last.
Library volunteers noted
Glassport Public Library is open Tuesdays. Today, Florence Gerstner and Betty Charney will volunteer. Oct. 11, Dorothy Manzlak and Gail Kwolek are scheduled. Oct. 18, Donna Kurucz and Patty Gribshaw should report. Oct. 25, Betty Gaydos and Isabel Bishop will volunteer.
McKeesport Daily News October 4, 2005
Glassport
DUI reported
Jeremiah Welker, 24, of Glassport, was charged with driving under the influence Saturday in the Ohio Avenue area, police said.
Multiple citations noted
Tracy Coddington, 42, of Glassport, was cited for public intoxication, disorderly conduct and simple trespass last week along Monongahela Avenue, police said.
Juveniles cited
Three juveniles were cited for underage drinking last week for an incident at the South Allegheny stadium, police said. Another juvenile was cited for disorderly conduct.
McKeesport Daily News October 5, 2005
Glassport
Probe nets three arrests
Police reported the following people were arrested during a month-long investigation by Glassport police and the Allegheny County District Attorney's enforcement and narcotics team:
Charles Ramsey, no age given, of Clairton, delivery and possession of heroin.
One juvenile, of Clairton, possession of crack cocaine.
Aaron Vaughen Keith, no age given, of Glassport, possession with intent to deliver crack cocaine.
McKeesport Daily News October 15, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Two people were cited for disorderly conduct after a tight Thursday night, police said. David Moore, 22, and Brian Gall, 31, both of Glassport, were cited for the incident along Ohio Avenue.
Public intoxication noted
Jeremiah O'Toole, 28, of Glassport, was cited for public intoxication Thursday night along Ohio Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News October 18, 2005
Women's Club plans to meet
October meeting of the Glassport Women's Club will take place Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Glassport Library. Donna Kurucz will preside and the Club Collect will be read by Sandy Urbanski.
Reports will be given by Betty Gaydos, secretary/treasurer, and Anne Dzurko, library coordinator. Hostesses will be Kurucz and Gaydos.
AL Post 443 to meet
Glassport American Legion Post 443 will gather Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the post home for the October business meeting. Home Association board meeting will follow.
McKeesport Daily News October 18, 2005
Glassport
Public intoxication cited
Two people were cited for public intoxication over the weekend, police said.
William Armstrong, 60, of Dravosburg, was cited early Saturday morning for reportedly walking in traffic on the Mansfield Bridge.
Jeremiah Welker, 24, of Glassport, was cited early Saturday morning along Monongahela Avenue.
Underage drinking noted
Two juveniles were cited for underage drinking Thursday along Vermont Avenue, police said.
Man cited
Thomas Dausey Jr., 33, of Glassport, was cited for an open container violation Sunday along Indiana Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News October 19, 2005
Glassport hauling company solve surcharge dispute for collections
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport residents do not have to pay a surcharge on their quarterly garbage bill. After a reported misunderstanding, County Hauling tacked on a $2.12 surcharge to third quarter bills to pay for increased costs due to the high price of gas.
Council members met with County Hauling officials and determined the borough's contract does not require Glassport to accept the surcharge, said Councilman James Uziel at Tuesday night's council meeting. "We understand they have increased costs but yet they have a contract they signed," Uziel said.
Residents who already paid the surcharge will see a credit on their fourth-quarter bill. Glassport will negotiate its hauling contract in January. Uziel said he anticipates the borough will continue with County Hauling. "We have a good hauler and County Hauling is a good fit for this to ," Uziel-said.
In other business, council chose two official towing companies for the borough. Lee Mendlowitz Towing was approved unanimously. Councilman Michael Ksiazek was absent. Craig Gouker Towing was approved by a 3-3 vote, with Edward Mihoces, Eugene Skerkoski and Uziel voting no. Other candidates receiving less votes were Paul Beisler and Tom Borucki towing companies.
Also Tuesday, council applied for a $100,000 capital improvement loan to work on street projects and possibly purchase some equipment.
Other equipment is being purchased with the help of state grants from state Rep. Ken Ruffing, D-West Mifflin. Ruffing is providing $50,000 toward the purchase of a 5-ton dump truck with a spreader and plow. The borough will sell its old truck.
Ruffing also got the borough a $33,000 grant for a heavy-duty pick-up with a spreader and a plow. Councilmen said they were grateful for Ruffing's work for the borough.
McKeesport Daily News October 20, 2005
Glassport
Parking restrictions noted
Glassport police said Johnny K's parking lot, adjacent to South Allegheny's stadium, is closed due to construction. Anyone attending the junior varsity football game today or Senior Night Friday should arrive early to find alternate parking.
Dumping prohibited
Glassport officials said anyone caught dumping construction materials or dumping anything without police permission the Patterson property will be cited and fined.
McKeesport Daily News October 25, 2005
Glassport
Halloween parade planned
Glassport will host its annual Halloween parade Saturday at 5 p.m. Participants will line up at Sixth Street between Monongahela and Allegheny avenues and proceed to the Honor Roll.
Trick-or-treating is Monday from 6 to 8 p.m.
McKeesport Daily News October 26, 2005
Glassport eyesores being demolished
By BRANDY BRUBAKER, Daily News Staff Writer October 26, 2005
Kevin Opfar and Rich Lve clear rubble after a house along Fifth Street in Glassport was leveled Tuesday morning. (Kathi A. Wilcox) A half-dozen dilapidated buildings in Glassport are being torn down. Last week, demolition began on six borough structures thanks to a $27,000 grant from Twin Rivers Council of Governments.
Glassport Council President Terry DiMarco said three of the buildings had been leveled as of Tuesday. Work will continue on the remaining structures until the project is complete. Among those already demolished are properties at 315 Fifth St., 520 Broadway Ave. and 608 Maryland Ave. Advertisement
Next to be demolished are those at 406 Erie Ave., 437 Erie Ave. and 530 Ohio Ave.
The buildings chosen to be torn down were considered deserted and unsafe and had been posted for demolition. Reports were written on each of the six properties, detailing their safety hazards.
DiMarco said there's already a difference on the streets where the dilapidated homes once stood.
"It's making the neighborhood safer and it looks a lot better," he said. "There was a real danger for people."
Take the property along Fifth Street, for example, DiMarco said. The building caught fire in 1999 and never was repaired.
Another one of the structures was leaning and posed a hazard to nearby houses.
The demolitions should help bring up property values in many otherwise nice neighborhoods, borough officials said.
DiMarco said next year Glassport will use COG funding to purchase flow meters for the sewage plant.
The borough plans to return to demolition projects in 2007.
In the meantime, the council president said he and his colleagues are trying to obtain other grants for demolition.
McKeesport Daily News October 19, 2005
Glassport
Tax office sets hours
Effective Oct. 31 and continuing until April 1, Glassport's tax office will be open to the public Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Payments can be made during non-business hours by using the mail slot on the front door of the office, or by mailing payment to Jennifer Pasinski, tax collector, 439 Monongahela Ave., Glassport, 15045. Anyone needing a receipt should enclose a selfaddressed stamped envelope with payment.
McKeesport Daily News November 1, 2005
Glassport's Micon plans statement about charges
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News Staff Writer bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport mining company is expected to issue a formal statement later this week in response to criminal charges brought against it and its vice president by the state attorney general's office.
Attorney General Tom Corbett charged Micon and George A. Watson, 51, of Prosperity, with two misdemeanor counts of illegal disposal, processing and storage of residual waste, two misdemeanor counts of unlawful conduct, and one misdemeanor count of recklessly endangering another person.
The charges allege that from 2001 through 2003 Watson directed workers to remove 55-gallon drums containing isocyanate waste from a warehouse at Micon's Glassport location and pour the waste into trenches behind the plant.
An investigation began in April when the Office of the Attorney General executed a search warrant on the Allegheny Avenue business. Agents reportedly took soil samples and searched the area, including Micon's decaying warehouse behind its current site. In the warehouse, agents said 500 55-gallon drums of isocyanate and polyurethane waste were being stored.
The search also reportedly uncovered Material Safety Data Sheets that specified that isocyanate should not be stored in temperatures below 75 degrees or above 105 degrees because it can decompose at elevated temperatures causing a generation of gas that can cause pressure in a closed system. The sheets also stated that isocyanate should be stored in dry conditions because it can react violently with water.
Corbett said the warehouse lacked any heating or cooling systems and had large holes in its roof.
The drums of isocyanate reportedly were bulging and ejecting their covers.
Soil samples taken from the suspected burial area contained an unidentifiable chemical waste, Corbett said.
In addition, Corbett noted that Micon failed to obtain a permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to dispose or store isocyanate and polyurethane waste as required by law.
These chemicals also must be registered with Allegheny County Emergency Management Services in the event of a fire, which was not done, Corbett said.
Firefighters must handle chemicals like these in a different fashion because of isocyanate's reaction to water.
Glassport Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin arraigned Micon and Watson Friday.
Watson was released on his own recognizance.
A preliminarv hearing is scheduled for Dec. 7.
McKeesport Daily News November 1, 2005
Glassport
Disorderly conduct cited
Several people were cited for disorderly conduct over the weekend, police said.
James McMaster, 43, of Glassport, also was cited for resisting arrest Saturdaynight at Annie Oakley's Bar.
Wayne and Kimberly Carapella, no ages listed, of Glassport, were cited Friday night along Indiana Avenue.
A juvenile also was cited for underage drinking and criminal mischief.
DUI reported
Ryan Fasiska, 37, of Glassport, was arrested for driving under the influence early Saturday morning along N. Monongahela Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News November 1, 2005
Glassport
Library volunteers noted
Glassport Public Library is open Tuesdays.
Today, Jane Drogoski and Bernice Palmiero will volunteer.
Nov. 8, the library will be closed due to elections.
Nov. 1 S, Sandy Urbanski and Helen March are scheduled.
Nov. 22, Ann Dzurko and Nelly Sherman will volunteer.
Nov. 29, Florence Gerstner and Betty Charney are scheduled.
McKeesport Daily News November 3, 2005
Glassport firm contests illegal disposal charges
By BRANDY BRUBAKER Daily News StaffWriter bbrubaker@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport mining service company accused of illegal disposal of waste is contesting the charges.
Micon, of Allegheny Avenue, claims charges filed against the company and Vice President George A. Watson are unfounded.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett announced last week that Micon and Watson, 51, of Prosperity, each have been charged with two misdemeanor counts of illegal disposal, processing and storage of residual waste, two misdemeanor counts of unlawful conduct, and one misdemeanor count of recklessly endangering another person.
The charges allege that from 2001 through 2003, Watson directed workers to remove 55-gallon drums containing isocyanate waste from a warehouse at Micon's Glassport location and pour the waste into trenches behind the plant.
Corbett's office also claims Micon improperly stored isocyanate in a dilapidated warehouse with no means of temperature control.
A statement released Wednesday by environmental attorney Kevin Garber, hired by Micon, states the firm "denies any wrongdoing on behalf of itself, its vice president and its employees."
"Micon is a responsible corporate citizen which is complying with environmental protection laws," the statement continues.
Micon says one of its principal products is polyurethane grout, a solid, inert material formed by mixing an isocyanate compound with a liquid polymer. The grout then is used to shore up mine roofs and to seal cracks in rocks.
The company asserts that, according to the Alliance for the Polyurethanes Industry, the solid compound is "inert in the environment essentially indefinitely."
Micon also claims the allegations of improper disposal of isocyanate and polyurethane are false and company officials believe the charges stem from reports filed by disgruntled former employees.
A full investigation, the company believes, will prove it did not dispose of chemicals at its facility.
The press release also states the allegation of improperly storing drums of chemical waste at the warehouse is not correct. The company said the warehouse is used to manage inventory. The drums of chemicals are in good condition, Micon officials stated, and present no danger of releasing chemicals into the environment. They also claim to have notified local fire companies in past years.
"(Micon) is confident that it will be cleared of any and all allegations of improper conduct," company officials noted.
The investigation into Micon began in April when Corbett's office executed a search warrant.
Agents reportedly took soil samples and searched the area, including Micon's warehouse behind its current site.
There, agents said, 500 55-gallon drums of isocyanate and polyurethane waste were being stored.
The search also reportedly uncovered Material Salty Data Sheets which specified isocyanate should not be stored in temperatures below 75 degrees or above 105 degrees because it can decompose at elevated temperatures causing a generation of gas which can cause pressure in a closed system. The sheets also stated isocyanate should be stored in dry conditions because it can react violently with water.
Corbett said the warehouse lacked any heating or cooling systems and had large holes in its roof.
The drums of isocyanate reportedly were bulging and ejecting their covers.
Soil samples taken from the suspected burial area contained an unidentifiable chemical waste, Corbett said.
In addition, the attorney general noted Micon failed to obtain a permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to dispose of or store isocyanate and polyurethane waste as required by law.
Glassport Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin arraigned Micon and Watson Friday. Watson was released on his own recognizance. A preliminary hearing is set for Dec. 7.
McKeesport Daily News November 4, 2005
Benefit game scheduled
Glassport Reliance Hose Co. No. 2 will face Don Farr Moving and Storage in a softball game to benefit Ralph Snyder, who suffered a brain aneurysm.
The game is scheduled for Saturday at 3 p.m. at Glassport's Ninth Street ballfield.
Chinese auctions, 50/50 drawings and other activities also are planned.
All proceeds will go to Ralph and Bonnie Snyder.
Anyone willing to help or donate is asked to call Andy Papson at 412-901-8708 or LeAnne Papson at 412-583-6745.
McKeesport Daily News November 9, 2005
Glassport
DiMarco voted mayor
Council President Terry, DiMarco is Glassport's new mayor after receiving 728 votes while running unopposed. He appeared on both parties' ballots.
Incumbent Eugene Skerkoski (666) and newcomers Paul J. Trunzo (642) and Jamie Colecchi (558) were unopposed for council.
Colecchi was an unsuccessfiil candidate for the state House last year.
Democrat Jennifer Pasinski (686) was unopposed for tax collector.
McKeesport Daily News November 9, 2005
Charges dropped against ex-mayor's son
By DAVIDWHIPKEY Daily News StaffWriter dwhipkey@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport Police Chief Howard Kifer said the citing of former McKeesport Mayor Wayne Kucich for illegal dumping was a misunderstanding.
Branden Kucich was cited Oct. 26 for dumping construction materials at Glassport's Patterson Property.
Kifer said the former waste dump now is used for the disposal of grass clippings, hedges and rocks, pending police approval. "Anything biodegradable can be dumped there," the chief said. "The material (Kucich) brought in was not, even though it could have been used as backfill."
Kifer said materials such as plaster that was left behind isn't biodegradable.
"Basically, it was a big misunderstanding," the chief said. "After talking about it, he came back the next day and took care of it."
He said Kucich returned to the Patterson Property the next day and removed the materials. The charges were withdrawn Oct. 27 before Glassport Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin.
The former mayor reportedly was in the truck with his son when the materials were dumped but was not cited.
Since leaving office, the elder Kucich has served as a local government liaison for the Southwest Regional Office of the state Department of Environmental Protection.
Branden Kucich operates a local construction company. He said he was angered by the situation. "My actions and the charges had nothing to do with my dad and politics," he said in a written statement to The Daily News. "My family has stayed away from all of the politics and gone on with our lives."
McKeesport Daily News November 15, 2005
Glassport UM lists sale plans
Glassport United Methodist Church, 501 Ohio Ave., will sponsor a soup and bake sale Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Advance orders are being accepted by calling 412-6788312.
Featured soups will include chicken noodle, potato, chili vegetable, ham and bean, five bean, stuffed pepper, cheeseburger, clam chowder and vegetable beef. Soups are $6 per quart or $3 per pint.
Additional information may he obtained by calling the church at 412-6722866.
Glassport Women's Club plans to meet
November meeting of the Glassport Women's Club will take place Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Glassport Library. D
onna Kurucz will preside and Sandy Urbanski will read the Club Collect.
Reports will be given by Betty Gaydos, secretary/treasurer, and Anne Dzurko, library coordinator.
Hostesses will be Bernice Palmiero and Florence Tomedolsky.
McKeesport Daily News November 17, 2005
Glassport's Countryman disputes his termination
By JENNIFER R. VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
Shane Countryman claims his employment with Glassport Police Department wrongfully was terminated as a result of borough politics.
After almost seven years on the force, Countryman was dismissed by council Tuesday night.
While borough officials were not available for comment, residents said the firing was a sad display. "It just seems as though this man's impeccable service record means nothing to these twits," former Councilman John D'Angelo said. "I asked them to consider his record before they voted, and immediately after I stated my case, they voted to terminate him." Officially, Countryman was let go for failure to meet an updated residency clause that requires all Glassport officers to live within borough limits.
"(Council) had a meeting with me and asked me to provide proof of residency, and I explained to them I live in Liberty borough," Countryman said. He claims his residency is protected by an ordinance passed in May 2003 that allows officers to live within 5 miles of Glassport's municipal building. "The address I have within Liberty borough was well within what the ordinance allowed," Countryman explained. "My house lies 3.1 road miles from the borough building, and I maintain an address in Glassport as well and continue to pay taxes to the borough."
Rather than leaving Glassport when the residency ordinance was written, Countryman said D'Angelo advised him to keep a Glassport address when he moved out of the borough apartment he maintained when he initially joined the force. Countryman said he's permitted to maintain dual residency in Glassport and Liberty.
Throughout his employment, Countryman's paychecks listed a Glassport address, and borough wage taxes were taken from his earnings. Countryman and a handful of supporters claim the residency issue was used as a smokescreen to fire him for political reasons.
Residents said the matter could be the result of a disorderly conduct citation issued by Countryman to Council President Terry DiMarco, the mayor-elect, in August. Police Chief Howard Kifer deferred comment to Borough Solicitor Gary Matta. DiMarco failed to return several phone calls.
"I think that citation was the straw that broke the camel's back, but it was long before that they were gunning for him," D'Angelo said. "I warned Shane they were gunning for him a long time ago. This is nothing but a political vendetta. That's all this is."
D'Angelo said other officers, whom he declined to name, have committed acts that could have been punishable by dismissal, but they weren't subjected to such disciplinary action.
Residents said Countryman could have been singled out for sticking to his guns when it comes to law enforcement. "He's not one of their lap dogs. He's not controllable, and they can't make him do things," D'Angelo said. "Shane is his own man, and he goes by the law. That's what his job is. They have no right to interfere with him when he's writing reports and things of that nature, but they try to get in there and change things. They want to have more control."
Resident Jim Zeik said the current "regime" in Glassport sees no place for those who "stick to the law."
Countryman said he's retained attorney Charles LoPresti and plans to pursue legal action against the borough. "We have every intention of filing a lawsuit," he said.
Zeik said council should be held personally responsible for court costs and Countryman's back pay if the borough is found to be in the wrong. "They're going to wind up spending a lot of money, and I think they're going to lose," he said. "There's going to be punitive costs involved. Tf this man prevails, there's a chance they'll wind up hav ing to pay not only legal costs but other damages awarded to (Countryman)."
Zeik took his remarks one step further, asking if there is a legal manner in which Glassport residents can remove current councilors for any wrongs they have done in terms of borough business. "Our town is dying, and you can't get elected in this town," he said. "Glassport is a town run by people who are not capable of running it."
McKeesport Daily News December 1, 2005
Letter to the Editor
Wake up, Glassport residents
It was a sorrowful night in Glassport when the borough council voted to terminate one of their own, Officer Shane Countryman. The reason, a new ordinance that has been amended several times over the few years that, in short, states any borough employee must live in the borough to work for the borough.
Officer Countryman did maintain two residences, one of which was in Glassport, with documents to prove it. This apparently wasn't sufficient for council.
When pressed, council had no answers and their minds were made up to terminate. Seems silly, right? Wrong, we guess. Why would you terminate one of your top officers who performs his job by the book and doesn't play favorites? Therein lies the problem. Since Officer Countryman enforces the law equally, it seems he enforced it on some of the "wrong" ones.
These people are the old-school bullies who still think they can do things their own way. When one of their family or friends gets arrested, everyone is up in arms.
And the residents are letting these "characters" run our borough.
As a good example, the borough hired a private investigator to find out exactly where Officer Countryman lived. Council spent hundreds - maybe thousands - of dollars on this investigation. The dollar amount is "unknown at this time," according to council. The only thing they did admit to be fact is that Mayor Tom Urbanski and Terry DiMarco, the current council president and incoming mayor, agreed to perform this investigation.
Funds to pay this private investigator weren't in the budget, so where did the money come from? Who approved this expense? Is this type of thing legal? And who will pay for the court costs if or when Officer Countryman appeals? The residents? We hope not.
What is it going to take? A lawsuit against our own council for unauthorized spending of our tax monies may make sense.
If council is found to be wrong and Officer Countryman sues, who will pay? Council? We don't think so. Will they show their backbone and resign? We don't think so.
For a community that is nearly bankrupt, do we have money to waste on such frivolous things? Too many questions are unanswered here, people. We have a big problem, which is only getting worse by the day. This is a perfect example of small-town politics in small-town America.
The only thing council had on this guy was whether he lived within five miles of the borough building. That's pathetic.
If the residents don't see it, or refuse to acknowledge it because someone did someone a favor for a vote, then you can only blame the man (or woman) in the mirror when your house is burglarized or the local juvenile is now on your corner selling drugs.
Dennis and Nickole Luczak
Glassport
McKeesport Daily News December 5, 2005
Glassport Lions slating events
Glassport Lions Club is announcing activities for the month.
The business session will begin Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Sons of Italy Lodge 941 in Glassport. Co-hosts are George Branick and Tony Campano.
The annual Christmas party is planned Dec. 16 at Elks Hall 11 in West Mifflin.
Club members will attend the Christmas Around the World fund-raiser for the Diabetes Foundation at Stratigos Banquet Hall.
Assorted nuts are being sold for the holiday along with pecan puddles. Orders are being accepted by calling 412-673-0881 or 412678-1954.
McKeesport Daily News December 10, 2005
Glassport
Light-up night planned
The borough has scheduled its honor roll light-up, sponsored by borough council and the mayor, for this evening.
Tiffany Sopp dancers are to perform at 6 p.m., and the light-up is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
Refreshments and cookies will be served, and a special guest will visit children through the sixth grade.
All borough residents are invited to attend the event.
Meetings scheduled
Council is to host its caucus meeting Wednesday and its regular meeting Dec. 20.
Both meetings are scheduled for 7 p.m.
Agenda items include final passage of the 2006 budget, sewage, budget and tax levy.
A reorganization meeting is scheduled for Jan. 3 at 6:30 p.m.
McKeesport Daily News December 16, 2005
Glassport
Santa coming to Glassport
Santa Claus will ride through Glassport Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m.
Glassport Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 will provide transportation for Santa as he distributes candy to the borough's children.
Recycling pick-up Saturday
Glassport Citizens Hose No. 1 Volunter Fire Co. is scheduled to pick up recycleables Saturday from 7 to 9 a.m.
McKeesport Daily News December 21, 2005
Glassport adopts new fire tax
By JENNIFER R.VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport residents will pay an estimated additional $40 in annual taxes to cover operating costs for the borough's fire departments.
During Tuesday's meeting, council adopted a .75-mill fire tax to accompany the borough's 6.85-mill property tax ordinance in a 4-3 vote, with President Terry DiMarco and councilors Edward Mihoces and James Uziel dissenting.
While DiMarco acknowledged the new tax will help keep finances on track after the borough's near elimination of more than $600,000 in debt over a two year period, he said he's not in favor of any tax increase.
Councilors were in a bind, facing an initial $1,565,892 budget that didn't meet the borough's needs. It was underlined with a $57,400 deficit.
Councilman John DeSue said community development coordinators informed council of financial steps that were necessary to keep the borough on its feet.
While no one likes to see new taxes being imposed, it's a far better fate than financial distress, especially when dealing with emergency services, he said.
Financial advisors indicated a .6-mill tax could cancel out the shortfall but left no room for error, while a .75-mill hike would be certain to balance the budget and guarantee money for both Citizens Hose and Reliance Hose volunteer fire companies.
"I really believe fire companies can use a little bit of help," Councilman Michael Ksiazek said.
With 1 mill generating approximately $91,000 in collectible revenues in Glassport, the borough will bring in $68,000 specifically allotted to its fire departments.
That money is fit for no other use due to the imposition of a fire tax.
The borough's overall budget was increased to $1,574,880. A copy of that revised budget is expected to be available for viewing at the municipal building today. Also, council adopted a $5.01,483 sewage budget for 2006. It requires no rate increase for borough customers.
McKeesport Daily News December 28, 2005
Glassport
Traffic stops lead to arrests
Police made the following arrests after conducting traffic stops:
Michael Elko, 39, of Port Vue, is charged with fleeing and attempting to elude police, failure to complete duties at stop or yield signs, failure to yield when approaching or entering an intersection, careless driving and reckless driving, police said. Elko was arrested after being stopped in the 500 Block of Cherry Alley Tuesday at 4:10 a.m.
Joseph Maxwell, 48, of Glassport, is charged with driving under the influence and driving without lights to avoid identification or arrest, police reported. Maxwell was stopped in the 700 block of Hemlock Alley Friday at 10:55 p.m.
Jake Holmes, 19, of Cross Junction, Va., is charged with driving under the influence, disorderly conduct, underage drinking, possession of controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and unsworn falsification to authorities, police said. Holmes was stopped near the intersection of Ohio Avenue and Sixth Street Dec. 10 at 3:35 a.m.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette December 29, 2005
Pals retire from public life
Fishing contests, Glassport food bank remembered as part of their legacy
Thursday, December 29, 2005
By Margaret Smykla, Tri-State Sports and News Service
A favorite story of Glassport Mayor Tom Urbanski was the time he was lowered into a deep ditch to fix a copper water line at the Ninth Street field while a resident held his legs.
Mr. Urbanski, a master plumber, donated such work to the borough for 35 years -- often working with Councilman Ed Mihoces, a former Glassport police chief.
On Jan. 3, the lifelong Glassport residents and childhood friends retire from public life as a new mayor and councilman are sworn in.
Neither sought reelection.
Mr. Urbanski, 74, served on council for 15 years, six of those as president. He was mayor the past 20 years.
Mr. Mihoces, 79, was a borough police officer for 30 years beginning in the 1960s, the last five of those years as chief. He was elected councilman in 1994.
Mayor-elect Terry DiMarco remembered that, as a patrolman, Mr. Mihoces chased him and his underage friends to confiscate their six packs of beer. As chief, he often took troublesome youngsters fishing and hunting.
Mr. DiMarco said the mayor is "better than a map" with his knowledge of the location of the borough's water, gas, sewer, and electrical lines.
He has also been the town's biggest cheerleader, encouraging businesses, such as Plutkins Plumbing, Pennsylvania Electric Coil Ltd., and Micron, to relocate there, and others like Tube City to stay put.
"He only lives a block away from me. It's walking distance," said Mr. DiMarco of tapping into Mr. Urbanski's know-how and experience when he becomes mayor.
Mr. Urbanski and Mr. Mihoces often held fishing contests for the town's children. They also started the Glassport Food Bank, delivering food to needy residents in Mr. Mihoces' pick-up truck.
They went at all hours to the homes of elderly, bed-ridden residents who called for help when they fell out of bed.
They organized free turkey dinners at the seniors center, where Mr. Urbanski, who owned his own heating, air conditioning, and remodeling company, did the plumbing and heating work for free.
He also served as the borough's building inspector from 1988-2000, donating his salary to the recreation fund to keep the youth center operational.
For his part, Mr. Mihoces performed all the body and mechanical work on borough police cars at no charge after his shift ended.
While he often talked to students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, he also talked about plumbing with them.
The men fished and hunted, and played softball on the borough's Old Timers team.
At 16 years of age, Mr. Mihoces entered the U.S. Navy, serving in World War II as a gunner in the South Pacific and Atlantic oceans and the Mediterranean Sea.
Returning to Glassport, he worked at the Pittsburgh Steel Foundry and other plants before becoming a policeman. To supplement his annual income of $3,500, he hung wallpaper.
Mr. Urbanski served in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. At home, he worked with heating and air conditioning contractors to learn the trade before starting his own business.
He and his wife of 47 years, Sandy, are the parents of four daughters, three of whom are married to police officers, a family tradition begun by Mr. Urbanski's father, Clarence, the borough's police chief for 37 years.
In his retirement, Mr. Mihoces, who lost his wife of 55 years, Ann, in 2003, plans to fish from his boat on the Monongahela River.
These days, the father of four uses a walker to get around.
Mr. Urbanski, an avid outdoorsman who takes movies of his adventures, such as hunting in Alaska, plans more outings.
He will also work to develop the hill area: 131 acres of vacant land the borough owns over filled-in strip mines. A 300-home development, he said, could turn the tide in a town whose population dropped from 9,500 in the 1950s to 4,500 today.
After all, attracting new families "is the only way you build a community," he said.
McKeesport Daily News December 29, 2005
Glassport woman charged in holiday stabbing
By JENNIFER R.VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport woman remains in Allegheny County Jail awaiting a preliminary hearing for allegedly stabbing her boyfriend during a holiday dispute.
Kathy Peck, 44, is charged with aggravated assault. She faces a Jan. 3 hearing before Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin.
Peck appeared at Glassport Police Department Christmas morning at 2:57.
Police reports indicate she told Officer Ray Johnson she had stabbed 38-year-old David Donofrio of North Versailles Twp, twice in the back during an argument in her Monongahela Avenue apartment. Glassport officers were dispatched to the scene, finding a trail of blood leading from one Monongahela Avenue apartment to another.
Allegheny County police, who took over the case, said Donofrio staggered out of Peck's apartment and collapsed nearby.
Peck was transported to a Pittsburgh hospital, police said.
No word was available on his condition at press time.
Johnson arrested Peck, and county police filed the assault charge. Peck was arraigned in night court.
At presstime, she was being held in the county jail on a $25,000 bond.
McKeesport Daily News January 3, 2006
Glassport's Urbanski stepping down after 20 years as mayor
By JENNIFER R. VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
For the past two decades, Glassport residents and public officials have had one person they could turn for help, advice or even a few strong words of encouragement: Mayor Tom Urbanski.
And after 20 years in his mayoral seat, Urbanski is ready to pass the torch.
"During this time, I have dedicated myself to serving the residents of this community, and I have always done it to the best of my ability" he said. "I think the time has come where I'm at the age where we don't have the same energy or enthusiasm."
On any given day, Urbanski could be found browsing the many rooms of Glassport's municipal building in search of something to repair, someone to counsel or a project to research.
While his term as mayor appears to be a long time spent in public office, it wasn't where he began his career of pubic service.
"My life was set up with making goals in everything from getting married and having children to serving my community to hunting and fishing," he said. "Every year as a councilman or mayor, I set goals."
In 1971, Urbanski began a on council that lasted almost 15 years, serving as council president and street department chairman along the way.
Urbanski played an integral role in putting final touches on the 17 miles of paved roads that now are part of Glassport's infrastructure.
Through the early 1990s, three miles of Glassport roadways remained unpaved. ""That was the time when there was revenue sharing coming from the federal government," he said. "I had my agenda. My goals (were) set to pave every dirt street in the borough, and I did."
While Urbanski kept a focus on infrastructure, he never forgot what he believes is the best way to bring Glassport back to being as viable as it once was. Urbanski said he wants to see a return to industry so that the borough may thrive as it did in the days of Copperweld Inc. and other large industrial facilities.
"We're trying to get our community back where it was, and it's a very big job for somebody to do," he said. "I gave it my best, and that's all I can say."
The outgoing mayor now is concentrating on 131 acres located off Washington Boulevard and Delaware Avenue, referred to as the Patterson property, claiming it will be "just right" for development in coming years.
Urbanski said he hopes his successor will continue to keep any eye open for housing developments or businesses that may wish to set up shop in Glassport.
In a reorganization meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m., current Council President Terry DiMarco will be sworn in as Glassport's new mayor, and Urbanski will return to being a "civilian" for the first time in more than three decades.
Urbanski said he's confident DiMarco and council will continue on a path of bringing hope back to Glassport.
Councilors said they're confident they can carry out the outgoing mayor's wishes, but they always will run the borough in Urbanski's shadow. "I learned more from the mayor than anybody.
I marveled at his patience and his knowledge of this town," Councilman James Uziel said. "You can't replace a guy like him. You can only move forward."
While Urbanski is leaving his official government seat, that move does not imply that he will be complacent about anything that may happen in the borough. He said he plans to remain in contact with officials and speak up if he sees unfavorable action by council.
"This is my community and I love it," he said. "I'm not going anywhere."
McKeesport Daily News January 11, 2006
Glassport
DUI arrests made
Glassport police recently arrested the following individuals for driving under the influence.
Charged individuals were found to be intoxicated and were taken to an area hospital for blood alcohol testing, police said.
Lloyd Aguilar, 32, of Glassport, is charged with driving under the influence and careless driving. Aguilar was pulled over Monday at approximately 2 a.m. for speeding, police said.
Norma Kutscher, 40, of West Mifflin, is charged with stop sign violations and driving under the influence. Kutscher was pulled over Monday at approximately 2:30 a.m. for stop sign violations, police said.
Michael Semian, 28, of Glassport, is charged with driving under the influence. Semian was pulled over Saturday at 11:17 p.m. for traveling at a high rate of speed in the 900 block of Ohio Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News January 11, 2006
Glassport woman waives stabbing hearing
By JENNIFER R.VERTULLO Daily News Staff Writer jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
A Glassport woman remains in Allegheny County Jail on assault charges filed after her boyfriend was stabbed in the back.
Kathy Peck, 44, waived her right to a preliminary hearing Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge Armand Martin. Martin reduced Peck's bond from $25,000 to $5,000, but she remained in police custody at presstime.
Peck is charged with aggravated assault resulting from a Dec. 25 incident in which she admittedly stabbed her then boyfriend David Donofrio in the back with a kitchen knife.
According to a criminal complaint, Peck appeared at Glassport Police Department Christmas morning at 2:57, screaming she had stabbed 38-year-old Donofrio of North Versailles Twp. twice in the back during an argument in her Monongahela Avenue apartment.
Glassport, Liberty and Dravosburg officers were dispatched to the scene, where they found a trail of blood lead ing from one Monongahela Avenue apartment to another.
Allegheny County police, who took over the case, said Donofrio staggered out of Peck's apartment and collapsed nearby. He was taken to mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh for treatment.
Officers present in Martin's courtroom Tuesday said Donofrio remains in intensive care as a result of the stabbing.
McKeesport Daily News January 12, 2006
Glassport finances back in the black
By JENNIFER R. VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport is finally back in the black.
For as long as most borough officials can remember, Glassport has recorded its first surplus, with $25,622.19 left over from the 2005 fiscal year.
"Our assistant secretary has been here for more than 10 years, and she said this is the first time she's ever seen us end the year with money left over," said Glassport Mayor Terry DiMarco, who just completed a two-year run as council president and finance chairman.
DiMarco said all but one of the borough's bills are paid.
Council agreed to hold a recent auditor's bill until the new year so members may review some of the services for which the borough was charged.
"It's in the budget this year, and we're working it out," DiMarco said.
Borough officials are especially shocked the 2005 tax anticipation note - a loan taken annually to fund municipal services until taxes begin flowing in - was paid back in full. DiMarco said the borough often makes partial payments and cannot take out a full loan at the start of the next year.
"I remember scrambling every year to get money for the tax anticipation note," DiMarco said. "We didn't have much to work with."
DiMarco credits Keystone Municipal Services for tracking down former and current residents with delinquent real estate taxes and garbage collection bills.
While several past due bills are not collectible because some former residents have passed away since the debt was incurred, DiMarco is confident a great percentage of owed money will be redeemed.
He estimated $400,000 of approximately $425,000 in owed property taxes can be recovered. Also, the company is working to retrieve some $124,000 in delinquent garbage bills.
"When we hired that company, it made a big difference in our borough's budget," DiMarco said. "They brought us a lot of money to enable us to get where we are today."
Every month, the borough receives a check that erases a few more delinquent bills.
The borough also did a bit of leg work in making sure it won't be dealing with another delinquent garbage bill in the future.
Council put County Hauling Corp. in charge of its own billing. "We used to pay the company a month in advance to collect garbage in the borough. Then, we'd bill the residents," DiMarco said.
"That's bad business with all the residents who are delinquent, so we gave them the chore. We gave it back to them and told them to do it."
Aside from dealing with delinquent bills and taking preventative action to avoid similar situations in the future, the borough also brought in extra cash by increasing its $10 occupation privilege tax to $52 for individuals who make more than $11,000 per year. Those making less than $11,000 are not charged even a $10 fee.
For the past two years, the borough has taken a proactive stance in improving finances. To do that, DiMarco said some sacrifices have been made. "The last two years, we've cut everything as bare as you can cut it," DiMarco said. "'We didn't pave roads or anything, and it's getting pretty bad."
DiMarco said he's confident the borough can handle a bond issue to fund borough-wide street improvements. It will allow the borough to keep finances under control through scheduled payments, and residents can keep their checkbooks in order if taxes aren't raised to fund the project.
"I think the new president, John DeSue, going into the year with no debt is a good thing," DiMarco said. "He's going to start clean, and I think he can do a good job. He's smart, he's good with figures, and he'll be a good asset to us."
McKeesport Daily News January 17, 2006
Citizen's Hose No. l releases 2005 call report
By THE DAILY NEWS
Glassport Citizen's Hose Co. No. 1 answered a total of 258 alarms in 2005, according to the company report just released.
Included in those calls were 47 structure fires, seven of which were commercial or industrial; 110 mutual aid calls to assist other Mon Valley departments; and 101 non-fire calls.
No firefighter injuries were reported in 2005. Firefighters logged 944 training hours, and manpower for each call averaged 14.5 firefighters.
Also in 2005, Citizen's Hose Co. received a $47,500 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, to purchase a new unit to fill air cylinders, and a new exhaust system for the station. The system is designed to prevent firefighters from breathing hazardous fumes while working.
The department also purchased a $13,300 thermal imaging camera, which Fire Chief Wayne Lewis said has proven to be quite useful in keeping potential victims safe from fire.
Citizen's Hose Co. also has named its officers for 2006:
Executive officers are President Nick Sorrentino, Vice President Mark Colhepp, Recording Secretary Ray Johnson, Financial Secretary Dan Kolick, and Treasurer Bo Moranelli.
Line officers are Chief Wayne Lewis, Assistant Chief Dan Kolick, Capt. Bruce Snyir, and lieutenants XT Carrol and Jonathan Petrik.
Safety officers are Ray Johnson, Jeff Long and Tony Moranelli.
Accountability officers are Mark Colhepp, John D'Angelo and Bo Moranelli.
Trustees are Jonathan Petrik, Lowell Gregg, Nick Aquilante Sr., David Gregg and Mike Pollack.
The chaplain is Jonathan Petrik.
McKeesport Daily News January 17, 2006
Glassport
Driving violation logged
Anthony Torrito, 32, Glassport, is charged with driving with a suspended license.
Toritto was stopped in the 100 block of Sixth Street Saturday at 2:50 a.m. Police said his license had been suspended for a driving under the influence violation.
Disorderly conduct charged
Glassport police handled the following disorderly conduct cases.
Chuncey Buckery, 39, of Clairton, was cited Sunday at 12:25 a.m. near Lincoln Street and N. Monongahela Avenue. Police said he was in possession of a syringe intended for suspected heroin use.
Bridgette Madden, 24, of Glassport, and Robert Welsh, 61, of Glassport, were cited Saturday at approximatel 10:20 p.m. in the 600 block of Ohio Ave.
Women cited for drinking
Erin Kudrec, 20, of Elizabeth, and Kalley Adame, 18, of Glassport, are charged with underage drinking.
Police said they were consuming alcoholic beverages Sunday just after midnight near Sixth Street and Monongahela Avenue.
Public intox cited
Joseph Pearce, 41, of Monroeville, is charged with pubic intoxication.
Police said Pearce was found to be intoxicated and, therefore, a danger to himself Saturday at 12:30 a.m. in the 900 block Ohio Avenue.
McKeesport Daily News January 18, 2006
Glassport maintains unpopular fire tax
By JENNIFER R VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
Despite pleas made by residents, firefighters and the council minority, a recently imposed .75-mill fire tax will remain part of Glassport's tax structure.
Council had the opportunity to reopen the borough's $1,574,880 budget and 7.6 mill tax levy for 2006 during Tuesday's meeting, but that option was denied in a 4-3 vote with councilmen Eugene Skerkoski, James Uziel and Paul Trunzo left disappointed.
Councilmen Jamie Colecchi, James Foster, Michael Ksiazek and President John DcSue turned down the notion of revisiting the budget, although borough code permits such action to be taken in a post-election year when new councilors take their appointments.
Members of Glassport Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 caused quite a stir by telling council they would favor a fire tax only if it could be used to fund a single unified fire-fighting entity in the borough.
The tax is projected to generate approximately $68,000, which would be divided equally between Citizens Hose and Reliance Hose Co. No. 2.
Colecchi agreed $68,000 divided between two companies with individual annual budgets reaching $125,000 and $80,000, respectively, won't go far. He said it makes more fiscal sense to offer the entire fire tax revenue to one company with a budget closer to $150,000.
With the borough's population having decreased by 20 percent in the past 10 years to an approximate 4,300 residents and business withering from the borough's industrial heyday, the need for two fire companies is no longer, several firefighters said.
"We're in favor of the fire tax, but it's common sense that it's better to go to one fire department," Citizens Hose Chief Wayne Lewis said. "We're looking down the road here, where we need to replace fire equipment."
The newest piece of heavy equipment in Citizens Hose Co. was purchased in 1987. The company's front-line pumper is dated 1970. Firefighters said the tax should not be used to pay bills, it should go toward the purchase of new equipment.
Lewis said the tax will not eliminate the companies' need for monthly fund-raising efforts. He said it may even hinder their efforts in that residents won't wish to pay for raffle tickets if they know they're contributing through taxes.
"We respect and admire what you guys do," DeSue said. "We don't know where all the money comes from, but what we are doing is going to help you."
While Citizens Hose and Reliance Hose companies show no sign of a blossoming consolidation agreement, some officials agree it could work. Firefighters and councilors acknowledged fire department consolidation is not a strange topic in the Mon Valley and surrounding areas with municipalities including Dravosburg, Elizabeth Twp. and Jefferson Hills having taken such action in recent years.
Citizens Hose Co. is solidifying plans to construct a new fire hall and station on an approximate 3-acre parcel behind the municipal building, and company officers again are extending a welcoming hand to members of Reliance Hose Co.
Reliance Hose Treasurer Darwin Levkus acknowledged consolidation talks have occurred. He said they remain in progress.
Citizens Hose President Nick Sorrentino said he believes council should make the next move to guide- - and force, if necessary -- a merger. Sorrentino said politics should not get in the way, and a decision should be made with the best in mind for public service as well as borough finances.
Firefighters cannot allow pride in one company affect the decision-making process, Citizens Hose firefighter Tony Moranelli Jr. added. "It's not about pride," Moranelli said. "If it's a pride issue, shake that aside or don't be a fireman."
Councilman James Uziel said he's not sure any council member is willing to step in and tell the companies what to do. "I'm sure they'll do the right thing when it comes time to do it," Uziel said.
McKeesport Daily News January 23, 2006
Letter to the Editor
Glassport senior thanks mayor
I would like to commend Terry DiMarco, newly elected mayor of Glassport, for his generosity. He donated flashlights and batteries to the senior citizens of Glassport who are recipients of Meals on Wheels.
These are much appreciated by these people.
I would also like to thank the volunteers who deliver Meals on Wheels in Glassport who donate their time for this worthwhile service.
Mary Ann Mularski
Meals on Wheels volunteer
Glassport
McKeesport Daily News January 24, 2006
Glassport
Drivers charged with DUI
Police arrested the following individuals for driving under the influence.
Richard Hallick, 49, of Glassport, was stopped Friday at approximately 11 p.m. in the 300 block of Ohio Avenue, police said.
John Turner Jr., 55, of McKeesport, was stopped Sunday at approximately 2 a.m. in the 500 block of Monongahela Avenue, police said.
Public drunkenness charged
Police cited the following individuals for public intoxication.
Judy Datig, 45, of Glassport, and Robert Butrym, 44, of Glassport, were charged Monday at approximately 12:20 a.m. Police said they were visibly intoxicated near the intersection of Seventh Street and Indiana Avenue, police said.
Douglas Biddle, 39, of Glassport, was charged Saturday at approximately 12:15 a.m. in the 800 block of Monongahela Avenue, police said.
McKeesport Daily News January 27, 2006
Glassport arrests duo for arson, other charges in officer car fire
By JENNIFER R.VERTULLO Daily News Staff Writer jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
Two Glassport men are in Allegheny County jail as suspects in connection with the torching of a borough police officer's personal vehicle.
Chad Shantz, 18, and Chad Moore, 20, are charged with arson, causing catastrophe, criminal mischief and criminal conspiracy. Shantz also is charged with possession or transportation of liquor, underage drinking, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Glassport officers picked up both men early this morning - one just after midnight and one at approximately 3 a.m.
Glassport Police Chief Howard Kifer said the department has worked diligently to locate suspects in the Jan. 6 car fire.
That night, Officer Ray Johnson was at the fire hall when a call came in for a blaze in the parking lot behind Glassport's municipal building. Upon arriving at the scene, Johnson learned it was his own vehicle.
Suspects had poured a flammable liquid into the window and lit it, catching the dash and interior on fire, Kifer said.
An investigation began that night and continued with interviews of community members and potential witnesses.
"We just went from lead to lead until last night when we were able to get these guys in custody," Kifer said.
McKeesport Daily News February 9, 2006
Glassport
Preschool registration set
Glassport United Methodist Church will have preschool registration for the 2006-07 academic year on Feb. 17 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and 6 to 7 pm. at its 501 Ohio Ave. location.
Potty-trained children between the ages of 3 and 5 are eligible to enroll. Parents are to bring copies of their children's birth certificates and immunization records at the time of registration.
Also, a $25 nonrefundable registration fee must be paid at the time of enrollment.
All teachers are certified and have Act 33 and 34 clearances.
The school offers a pre-kindergarten curriculum and an introduction to the computer.
For more information, call 412-672-2866 or 412-6732051.
McKeesport Daily News February 17, 2006
Glassport
GAA sign-ups set
Registration for Glassport Athletic Association's baseball and softball programs is scheduled Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and on Feb. 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Social Hall at Seventh Street and Delaware Avenue.
McKeesport Daily News February 22, 2006
Property would be for new building
Deal hinges on Glassport fire consolidation
By JENNIFER VERTULLO Daily News StaffWriter jvertullo@dailynewsemail.com
Glassport Citizens Hose Co. No. 1 is waiting for action to transfer borough property to the department for the construction of a new fire hall.
Citizens Hose Chief Wayne Lewis approached council during Tuesday night's meeting, requesting clarification on a report from the company's attorney.
Citizens Hose firefighters were told council ordered borough Solicitor Gary Matta not to transfer the property in question into Citizens Hose's name until a consolidation agreement is reached between that department and Reliance Hose Co. No. 2, Lewis said.
Matta said that information simply isn't true.
For several months, council has been discussing plans for 4.2 acres along Allegheny Avenue between Third and Fifth streets. Approximately 3 acres are slated for use as a new public safety complex, planned to include a police station and fire hall for Citizens Hose Co.
Since that time, the borough has been approached with ideas to consolidate the borough's fire companies to create one unified department.
Councilors said they want an idea of what the future may hold before they transfer any property to Citizens Hose Co., but that request is not being made in the form of a commitment to consolidate.
Rather than asking for such a commitment, Matta said he is looking for a copy of each company's bylaws and charter. He said questions presented by council cannot be addressed unless the bylaws are reviewed.
Representatives of each fire company said the release of bylaws must be approved during a company meeting.
Citizens Hose meets Friday, and members said they could have a copy of the bylaws to council by Saturday afternoon. Reliance Hose is scheduled to meet March 6, but members said they may be able to call for a poll to move the process forward.
Councilors said they can schedule a special meeting to vote on the deed transfer within one week of receiving the bylaws because Matta's job can be done quickly once the copies are in hand.
"We have no specific intent to hold this up any longer," Councilman Eugene Skerkoski said. "Once we make a decision, we're going to be held responsible, so we would like to know the ins and outs."
Councilman Jamie Colecchi requested that each fire department also meet individually to evaluate the option to use a new fire station as a steppingstone for consolidation. He asked that firefighters who attended Tuesday night's meeting report back to their respective departments and prepare documents articulating official written opinions on consolidation.
"Let us move forward," Lewis said. "Whatever these folks down the street want to do is up to them."
Lewis said further delays in the transfer process may hold the company back from its potential to receive a $1.6 million construction grant from the state Department of Community and Economic Development.
Deed transfer is not contingent upon Colecchi's request. It was made for clarification purposes to keep everyone on the same page, he said. Some firefighters appeared dissatisfied with council's interest in both bylaws and consolidation. They accused borough officials of trying to take back a "gentlemen's agreement" to reserve the Allegheny Avenue property for a public safety complex.
"We're not trying to renege on anything," Council President John DeSue said. "We feel it would be an asset to this community."
Councilors said they will move along with original plans for that complex to include a police department and one fire company even if consolidation remains only an idea.
In other fire department news, council gave Citizens Hose Co. the go-ahead to apply for a liquor license transfer from Duquesne Annex VFC in West Mifflin.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette March 9, 2006
Glassport Senior center's return awaited
Closed since July fire; to be inspected soon
Thursday, March 09, 2006
By Margaret Smykla, Tri-State Sports and News Service
Most weekdays, Ed Mihoces, 78, rides his motor scooter past the Glassport Seniors Center hoping that, after eight months of being closed, his favorite gathering spot will be open again.
If so, the former Glassport police chief and councilman will, as he has done so many times before, stop in for lunch and chit-chat with friends who belong to the Glassport Senior Citizens Association, which was housed there.
In the absence of the local senior citizens center, which remains closed because of smoke damage, members have been arranging rides to centers in Clairton, McKeesport and White Oak.
"We are still active," said President Frank Tarli who, at 71, said he was "one of the kids."
The Glassport center, at 544 Monongahela Ave. in the town's business district, has been closed since July 28, when it sustained smoke damage from a fire in a nearby building.
Glassport officials -- the borough owns the building-- hope the center will reopen soon. Officials of LifeSpan, the group that leases the building, were scheduled to inspect the facility this week.
LifeSpan, a private, nonprofit corporation funded, in part, by the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, provides recreational and other programs, vision tests and low-priced weekday lunches for seniors at the building.
While the roof is in need of repairs, patching to stop minor water leaks will have to do, said Councilman Jamie Colecchi, as the borough does not have an estimated $12,000 to replace the roof.
Mr. Colecchi, chair of the senior citizens committee, said he was confident the building would receive the go-ahead to open. Although two visits by county officials found violations because of soot from the fire, a disaster restoration company has since cleaned it up.
The seniors center has a large gathering space and a kitchen. It contains a pool table, cable television hookup, dart boards, shuffleboard and tables for dining, playing cards and other games.
Mr. Colecchi said he would like to add services and activities there, such as screening for diabetes and a lonely hearts club.
He also plans to solicit businesses for money to supply meals on holidays at the center.
While LifeSpan finishes its activities by 1 p.m. at the center, some seniors have expressed interest in keeping the building open into the evening, Mr. Colecchi said.
McKeesport Daily News March 8, 2006
Glassport library hours posted
Glassport Public Library will be open Tuesdays in March from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Staff members on duty will be Ruth Whirl and Lois Sechrist on March 14, Sandy Urbansky and Helen March on March 21, and Florence Gerstner and Betty Charney on March 28.
Street sweeping to begin
Public works department will resume its seasonal street sweeping program this week. Monongahela Avenue will be cleaned Thursdays and Fridays.
On Thursdays, workers will sweep the lane headed toward Clairton. On Fridays, they will clean the lane headed toward McKeesport.
Residents are asked to park accordingly on those days.
Page last updated March 10, 2006