This was not sent to me by the PIO, but I am doing my part. I know they would do the same for me. ;)
Date: Tue, Jun 25, 2013 at 1:21 PM
Subject: Mt. Lebanon Magazine in the Final Four of Social Madness!
To: All Employees, Commission
It’s been a great ride: since June 3, mtl — Mt. Lebanon Magazine has been participating in the Pittsburgh Business Times’ Social Madness contest…and we’ve made the FINAL FOUR of the local competition! If we win the national competition, we score $10,000 that will go directly toOutreach Teen & Family Services, a fantastic local service agency that helps children, teens, families --- everyone --- stay healthy and on track.
And the big benefit is we're getting lots of new people engaged on our social media outlets so the word is getting out about our town, from special events to things they need to know, like public meetings, construction and water issues.
But we need your help once again...this round is less than a week in duration and our competitor, ZBrand ad agency, is fierce.
Please vote for us DAILY in the MEDIUM category here: http://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/socialmadness
Go to our Facebook page and like posts, share posts or comment on posts.
Go to our Twitter page and retweet Tweets!
Please share this on your social media pages, through email, etc. Send to your book clubs, your social groups, your plumber...EVERYBODY.
Once again, thank you very much.
--
Laura Pace Lilley
Senior Editor/Online Editor, mtl—Mt. Lebanon Magazine
Public Information Associate
710 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228
412.343.3552
www.lebomag.com
www.facebook.com/mtlebanonmagazine
www.twitter.com/mtlmagazine
www.linkedin.com/company/mt-lebanon-municipality
http://www.youtube.com/mtlebanonpio
120 comments:
Let's all help Susan Stroyd - FIVE MINUTES AFTER HELL FREEZES OVER!
It'll have to be a lot colder than that!
http://www.bizjournals.com/socialmadness/rules
The following are not eligible to participate in Social Madness 2013:
Companies primarily engaged in social media services
Companies with fewer than 5 FTEs
Charities: Any organization that derives its most of its cash flow from donations rather than operating income is not eligible. Example – a nonprofit hospital that charges for patient care is eligible. A foundation bankrolled by donors would not be.
Government agencies, departments or entities at any level -- local, state or national
"Adult entertainment" businesses
Any company that was disqualified from Sponsor’s Social Madness promotion last year.
mtl may violate at least two of the qualifications - wanna guess which two?
Would mtl Magazine be considered a company? Would the PIO be considered a company? I know that there are only two FTE in the PIO.
Is it adult entertainment, 4:30 PM? Ha!
Maybe if they stopped tweeting, they would have time to sell some signs.
Elaine
Rules don't apply inside the bubble! Isn't Lebomag/MTL magazine a government agency, department or entity?
Or have a taxes been underwriting this private venture for way too long. And if it is a private venture certain people are ineligible for healthcare and pension benefits!
It may or may not be considered a company but it is a "government entity at any level."
The municipality provides revenues, offices, health/pension benefits and the commissioners have the say on keeping the magazine or disbanding it evidenced by the fact that Morgans has to submit operational documents to the commissioners.
"Oh what a tangled web we weave. When first we practice to deceive." - Sir Walter Scott
In the magazines own words at:
http://lebomag.com/about/
FAQs AT A GLANCE
•Published by Mt. Lebanon Municipality
•Founded in 1981
•Total circulation: 22,000
Published by Mt. Lebanon Municipality-- last I looked our municipality is a government by any and all definitions.
I'd be willing to accept mtl magazine is adult entertainmemnt.
They've been playing it pretty loose and fancy free and screwing with us long enough.
That post about it possiblt being adult entertainment was a personal opinion, (IMO somehow got deleted from the comment) perhaps not shared by everyone.
5:28 PM, I know that. You know that. But what do we know? "This blog frequently conveys misinformation about both the school district and the municipality," right Susan?
Elaine
Hey Gang,
Remember who got the grant funding to finish the Veteran's Memorial?
Let's give Susan Morgans credit where credit is due.
Thank you, Susan, for a job well done.
John Ewing
Did someone author an email that tried to pursuade people not to support the Veteran's Memorial?
6:10 PM, I am not aware of an email like that.
We have until 11:59 PM tonight to vote for mtl Magazine in the third round. I sure hate tell the two that lost to mtl Magazine in rounds one and two, if mtl isn't eligible.
Elaine
Note the Facebook quote about mtl magazine:
"The award-winning Mt. Lebanon Magazine is the .
". . . only official magazine of Mt. Lebanon municipality, with direct access to timely, relevant information that goes to every home and business in Mt. Lebanon."
". . . timely, relevant information that goes to every household and business in Mt. Lebanon."
The school district can't make that claim because they are too busy paying legal fees to delay the information going out.
That is true, John. It is also true that it is a nice looking publication.
That does not cancel out the fact that it is a local government owend/operated publication.
Personally, I liked the content much better when it was stll published in black & white. Lately, IMO it appears to have become too much of an extension of the personality and interest of it's editor.
Some people align with the editors views, others don't. It would be a much better community resource if it stayed objective.
I know of some emails that were circulated offering possible alternatives to the Memorial design when it appeared it was having trouble raising the necessary funds to build it.
Never heard of anyone not supporting the idea of a Memorial.
Paul J. Gough is digital producer at the Pittsburgh Business Times. Contact him at pgough@bizjournals.com or 412-208-3827.
http://www.bizjournals.com/socialmadness/rules
The following are not eligible to participate in Social Madness 2013:
Government agencies, departments or entities at any level -- local, state or national
They only need 88 more votes to win.
Elaine
Sorry, they only need 89 to win.
Elaine
Has anybody contacted Paul J. Gough at Pittsburgh Business Times ? If so, what was his response to claim based on fact that Lebomag not qualifying (because it is a government publication) based on his established rules ?
9:05 AM, I have not contacted PBT. If the PIO is in violation of the rules, they should do the right thing and pull out. Of course, that will jeopardize their $10,000 donation to Outreach, should they win.
I just checked and the votes are still being counted.
Elaine
I have just called and left a message with Mr. Gough about this issue with a request he provide a comment I can submit here.
You realize that if this goes down that mtl Magazine gets disqualified, I will be blamed, along with the wing nuts, the non educated, unattractive, under employed, Governor loving, kid haters, anti guns people, anti sports, those not articulate, well groomed, interesting and void of leadership qualities, and what ever else they can think of.
Elaine
Why is our PIO is chasing after $10,000?
Our PIO probably leaves more than $10,000 in tips during a single trip to McDonalds!
According to the PBT website, mtl Magazine did not win Round 3.
Elaine
Maybe the PBT will get a letter threatening them with a lawsuit unless they reconsider?
Both Susan Morgans and Laura Lilley have been known to scold the PG, the Trib, inCommunity magazine, and The Almanac on occasion. PBT would be in good company.
Elaine
Didn't Morgans and Lilley both work for the PG at one point in their careers?
So you people tried to get the magazine disqualified because depriving your enemies of success would be a greater good than a local (and deserving) charity receiving $10,000. Does that about sum it up?
Um, good job?
3:57 PM, yep, go for that low hanging fruit. I didn't see that coming...
Elaine
Of course playing by rules just isn't all the darn important is it 3:57!
Ethics be damned, it's a MTL Association, all the other contestants and their charities are inconsequential as long as we get ours. Nice attitude.
3:57 prett much sums up what is wrong with this community they believe Lebo is the center of the universe and everything is about us. There are no charities more important than our charities, no school districts or students that need state money than our districts and kids.
Everybody is just waiting to read stories about the PIO and her pals.
Their gardens are more important than someone's concern about hunting next to their house or their appreciation of wildlife.
Someone desire for plastic grass trumps smothers desire for smooth streets or sidewalks, or lower taxes.
Screw million dollar land purchases, I need a frigging trail to walk my dog.
That's the way we live in the bubble... "it's all about me" should be the municipal motto.
20 hours ago on Facebook:
"With a little over three hours to go, we've gone up by several hundred votes (Thank YOU!) but still are behind by about 90 points. So if you haven't yet voted or shared/liked comments on this page, please do! We're in the medium category."
Gee, do ya think it might have something to do with me announcing it here?
3:57 PM, I think you have it backwards, we are Susan's enemies, not the other way around. I think she has crossed just about everyone here in Mt. Lebanon.
Fear not, 3:57 PM, mtl Magazine will do it again next year.
6 hours ago on Facebook:
"Thank you so much to everyone who voted for us in the #socialmadness contest. We were so pleased to make it to the Final Four! Unfortunately, we did not get enough votes in the last round to beat our formidable competitors to make it to the finals. We'll get 'em next year! Please continue supporting the contest, including voting for 4Moms, co-owned by Mt. Lebanon's Rob Daley. And please support Outreach Teen & Family Services, the organization to which we would have donated our prize money. They're doing so many wonderful things for families and they are an amazing asset to our community!"
Elaine
5:17 - you forgot what it most important, their law firms.
Life is law. Without law there is no life, and without those great big magnificent hunk of a lawyers there would be no Mt Lebanon.
When these magnificent hunks appear in court, does the Judge halt all proceedings and order a moment of silence out of respect for their magnificence?
Mr. Gaugh of the PBT dod not return my telephone call today. Did anyone else have any luck in reaching him ?
So let me get this straight. First, we have Outreach, a nonprofit that deals with, among other issues, drug and alcohol dependence. Or whatever. Meanwhile, we have people in this town waking up every day believing Lebo is elite and the creme de la creme. Mm if that's true, then why do we need Outreach?
Also, a municipal publication housed in a public building with public employees and subsidized by public money was trying to raise money for a charity that already gets public money? They decided this on their own? There are plenty of other charities out there. Know what comes to mind? People left homeless by tornadoes, the families of the 19 firefighters who died in Arizona, a rape crisis center, wounded veterans and--well, you get the point. Good lord, some people really do refuse to acknowledge there is a world beyond the South Hills. It's really sad, very pathetic.
There is also the money aspect. If Lebo is such a ritzy place why is 10k so important?
No luck ? Try *Melissa Pravlik is the social engagement manager at the Pittsburgh Business Times. Contact her at mpravlik@bizjournals.com or 412-208-3831.*
9:23 PM, I saw that too. What is the point? They are out of the running.
Elaine
How much did the school spend in legal fees because they couldn't fulfill the number of parking spaces require by the law. Then the municipality spent thousands defending the ruling of the zoning board against the district. I've heard the amount spent by both parties which get their money from taxpayers was around $54,000 or more.
Lawyers made money, judges made money, administrators made money, the architect made money all because an organization felt it didn't need to follow the rules or protocol.
We could've have given Outreach $30,000 and been ahead of the game if our leaders on the SD just insisted on playing by the rules.
Why is mtl allowed to donate money to a charity. Isn't prize money for mtl public money subject to a Commission vote? Who does Morgans think she is?
This brings up the question, why does Outreach get far more funding than any other community program in Lebo. Why does PI raise money for them time and again? Brewfest funded Outreach last year. This year Susan is trying to raise money for them. What is the connection?
They give money to Outreach for the reason they cater to the YSA people.
Its obvious whom Morgans think she is. The question is why do we allow her too.
Because all the players scratch each others back and their is the connection asked for by 11:42.
3:57 is onto something -- you're now raking the PIO over the coals for orgazining ways that the community can support the charities that support the community. Unbelievable. If there was every any other evidence needed (there wasn't) that this blog has an irrational and very jealous hatred of the PI office, it is this post and the "anonymous" (i.e. the voices in Elaine's head) comments to it.
How dare the PIO try to get out information about how the community can support charities. Let's disqualify mtl and screw Outreach South and all the families who need it!! Yeah!!!! What a victory you must feel!! Team Evil wins this round -- you must be so proud of your despicable ways.
We know who on the Commission sent it to you, by the way. Hi Kelly! Your close affiliation with this hateful blog is going to make you lose a lot of votes! Including mine,
Wow, 4:44 PM, you got all that out of "Please Help The Public Information Office" and Laura Pace Lilley's email. Yes, you're right. I am despicable. Now go hide under your bridge again.
Elaine
Uh, I did not receive that from Kelly Fraasch. I got it from a staff member.
Elaine
4:44 is right United Way, Animal Friends just two of the other charities selected by candidates in the BT contes aren't MTL-chosen charities so they are unworthy.
Shame on your all, you dispecable, unclean, evil Lebocitizens bloggers.
Get over yourself 4:44 - 3:57 was onto nothing. The contest had rules, the PIO's social media wasn't eligible under those regardless of her chosen charity. Other contestants selected worthy charities as well.
The issue wasn't with the PIO wanting to help Outreach.
It was about following rules, something apparently is too difficult for you to comprehend.
What is the difference, Troll? I was trying to do the right thing and promote the contest, just like I promote Shop Small, Dress 4 Work, The Fresh Market hiring, our Greek Food Fair, and other events.
I don't get anything from the commissioners, except a lot of grief from Kristen.
Elaine
Ah yes another Fraasch gets attacked by the lovers!
Toe the line Kelly, orp they'll be forced to deport you.
Kristen, I mean, 5:03 PM, please reread Laura's email.
"Please share this on your social media pages, through email, etc. Send to your book clubs, your social groups, your plumber...EVERYBODY."
The staff member was doing exactly that and sent an eblast. I even liked a few comments in Facebook and sent in a comment.
How do you figure Kelly has a close affiliation with this blog? Dave Brumfield has commented here. Should he lose your vote too? Which is pretty ridiculous because, if Kelly lost your vote, it would go to the guy who is the biggest anti deer cull person in Lebo. And you can only vote for one commissioner here. It isn't like the school board. So Kristen, I mean, 5:03 PM, like everything else you are involved with, you can't get your facts straight. I should be more tolerant of you. You don't understand that interest earnings are a good thing. We don't want to cut those.
The hateful blog is getting its reputation from comments and emails such as yours. "Period."
Elaine
I would vote for anyone over Kelly Fraasch. She has no idea how government works and treats Mt. Lebanon like it's her own little kingdom. All hail Queen Kelly or off with your head! Or rather, not off with you head, she'll just ruin your reputation through her blogger friend Elaine who will see to it that she all her "anonymous" friends will hit you below the belt in the name of Big Kelly, Mt. Lebanon's self-appointed Queen Bee! Don't get on big Kelly's bad side or you'll regret it! She and Elaine will see to that.
You need to be fired.
Elaine
9:37 now we know your can flap your gums, please grace us with your knowledge and facts.
#1. please educate us - how does government work?
#2. How many times has Kelly voted against the commission majority? How many times has she voted against Linfante, Bendel, Kluck, Brumfield?
#3. Just who has Kelly sent under the axe?
#4. Explain to us how a small group - what is it down to 3 to 8 - wingnuts wield so much power? Thought Elaine and friends were a fringe group that no one takes seriously.
So please great guru and keeper of the Lebo flame, grace us with your knowledgeof the facts.
Funny under Elaine's post RRRibitt an anonymous blogger wrote:
"Anonymous said...
Occasionally when I am not reading about UFO abductions and just missing Big Foot, I turn to this thing for entertainment. Since it seems to be, at the most four people, ranting and raving at everything connected to the Mt. Lebanon school board it does get stale, hearing the same drum beat over and over. It appears as though a state legislator in Washington County, has been posting comments and blogs under a number of different names. I have always suspected that Eileen does the same thing. Sometimes she uses fictitious names,like Giffen Good or Sam Adams, but I have no doubt that she is the author of 90% of the drivel that makes up this thing. Considering the fact that none of the members of the school board and most of the members of the city council completely ignore this thing, and particularly Eileen in person, one has to wonder why she bothers. This thing has absolutely no influence over anything of importance. Recently, this thing supported some people when they ran for the school board; they all lost. If anonymous bloggers were not allowed, I am sure that we would see about 4 comments a week. Oh well, it is entertaining."
Gee 9:37 less than 30 days age, you or someone else said Elaine and her blog has absolutely no influence over anything of any importance.
But today 9:37 you believe that have the influence to ruin peoples' reputations.
WOW, what a turn around... 30 days ago no influence, today she can ruin people.
11:23 PM, two different people. One calls me Eileen and the other calls me Elaine. One is with a sports group and the other is with the municipality. The one with the municipality should resign.
Elaine
Allowed that the post could be from two different people.
Maybe the two should get together and come to a consensus.
This is a perfect example of why you can't let one person have to much power to influence public opinion or make policy.
One of the commenters think your blog reaches only 4 people and is so inconsequential that it is a sad joke. The other thinks you are the mouthpiece, the assassin for the community tyrant. Isn't that interesting, two completely opposing opinions, both with the same objective - to shut you and any one else out that prevents hem from getting on with their agenda.
Wait -- I'm 9:37 and 4:44 and I am not affiliated with a sports group and nor am I with the municipality. I'm just a lebo citizen disgusted by how this blog deprived Outreach South of money it could have had. Utterly sickened by it. Cute that Ellen only thinks she has two enemies. SHe has racked up many more (i.e. everyone who relies on Outreach South) after this stunt.
Again, my name is Elaine. Not Ellen. Not Eileen.
This is the last time I do anything to help the PIO. From their words on Facebook,
"With a little over three hours to go, we've gone up by several hundred votes (Thank YOU!) but still are behind by about 90 points. So if you haven't yet voted or shared/liked comments on this page, please do! We're in the medium category."
I voted. I liked comments. I did not tell my plumber. I posted this thread asking people to support the PIO. WTF else did you want me to do?
Elaine, spelled E L A I N E.
10:26 didn't deprive Outreach of anything.
#1. Lebomag was obviously in the contest against the rules.
#2. they were behind in the vote count by a substantial margin before Elaine put up her post that actually supported Lebomag if you read it without your obvious biases skewing your perceptions.
I guess now because you decided every time Lebo doesn't win something, a sporting event, spelling bee, ranking, it'll be Elaine's fault... Right?
MTLSD #2 school district - all together now - Elaine's fault.
Run up in football, baseball, soccer, mumbly peg, yep you got it... Elaine's fault!
Get over it and yourself 10:26, life doesn't always go your way.
To the person who submitted the unapproved comment at 9:40 PM, I hope you burn in Hell.
Elaine
Methinks meheard something about Commissioner Kelly hijacking Brewfest from Outreach (and from StroydMorgansFlemingStroyd so GOOD JOB KELLY!!!), which had been bringing in about $10,000 a year for Outreach for the past five years, but now that money's going to some friend of Kelly's instead.
We'll show that PIO she can't mess around. There's a new sheriff in town! And Outreach isn't getting a dime!!!!
THAT'S how government works!!!
A fundraiser called Brewfest which benefits Outreach ? ? I know ! !... Lets have a night at the races to benefit Gamblers Anonymous ! !
10:34 PM and 10:58 PM, back in February, I questioned why our fundraisers for Outreach revolve around alcohol. http://lebocitizens.blogspot.com/2013/01/our-kids-are-dying.html?m=0
Elaine
10:58 I was thinking we ought to have a Cheech & Chong Film Fest at the Dennis Theatre.
They can sell Zig Zag papers, roach clips and hookahs and all the proceeds benefit Outteach.
The following week we can hold the Linda Lovelace, Marilyn Chambers All Night Smoker to benefit the Avused Women's Shelter.
Are you serious 10:34? You can't see the absurd irony in a Brewfest to aid Outreach?
Absolutely! Which is why Outreach needs to be punished! I hope they go under, and maybe some organization with some VALUES can take its place. You go, Kelly! You fix this place!!!!!!
10:34 if and only if Lebomag made it thru the Pittsburgh would they get to proceed to the Nationalcompetition against allthe other cities local winners, includingAtlanta, Baltimore, Phienix, Nashville etc., etc.
Then should they win the national competition would Outreach get the $10,000. You act like it was already won and in Outreach's bank account.
Howabout waking up and using your head for once, instead of being a malicious, angry pain in the backside.
You know while we're in a Lebo building, spending frame of mind, let's construct a huge Roman Coliseum, stock it with some lions, feed them some Christians and send the ticket and snack bar revenue to Christian Charities! Of course it'll have to have turf.
Seems to be the way government works around here, right 10:34?!
At 10:34 - I too heard the same thing about Commissioner Fraasch effectively shutting down the Brewfest Fundraiser, which proceeds benefitted Outreach (and had the side benefit of bringing a number of young people to Mt. Lebanon from throughout the region-- a real estate agent's dream) after taking its operation away from the PIO, which had run it impeccably for years. How utterly *Coincidental* that first this blog denounced the Brewfest's affiliation with Outreach and then Queen Kelly shut the Brewfest down, depriving Outreach of thousands of dollars in funds in the process. Thanks again, Kelly!
And here we are again, with this Blog yet again carrying out Kelly Fraasch's agenda that a wonderful charity Outreach South, which serves scores of Mt. Lebanon families each year, is deprived of money it maybe could have won. Hmmmmmm. I see an undeniable pattern here: this Blog and Kelly Fraasch share essentially the identical agenda and part of it includes slamming the Public Information Office, mtl, and Kristin Linfante at every turn and depriving Outreach South of contributions too. Oh, and anti-deer culling and every other post on this blog involving the municipality will align identically with Kelly's agenda. If it's something too nasty for Kelly to say in her official capacity, no worries, Elaine will do her dirty work right here.
I don't claim to know why Kelly Fraasch and this blog hate Outreach South (or the PIO, or mtl, or Kristin LInfante, for that matter) so much, but Outreach is a tremendous organization that has helped my family and many many others through crisis. Fraasch is a sinking ship in this town already, and all of us who rely on Outreach South will see to it that everyone knows about her actions to repeatedly deprive our organization of funds it desperately needs to serve Mt. Lebanon's families. Great leadership, Kelly! Families in crisis throughout Mt. Lebanon thank you.
Gee, I didn't realize I had so much power. Cool! So Kristen's plan to shoot deer doesn't stand a chance.
YEA!
Amazing how I have gone from having a handful of readers to now controlling Mt. Lebanon.
Kelly only gets one vote on the commission, but I am the great and powerful ELAINE who fights for safety, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. Mary Birks did call me "Queen."
For those of you who rely on Outreach, they do not turn anyone away. Also, check with your insurance too. You might want to hit up other communities that Outreach serves. They have a downtown location as well. I hope they are matching funds from Mt. Lebanon.
Elaine
All this for asking to help the PIO and to vote for them in the Pittsburgh Business Times. Amazing. Just amazing.
Elaine
Since a reader believes that I will be responsible for any kid who dies from a drug overdose or commits suicide because they couldn't afford the counselor, (hence the burn in Hell comment), I want to share some fundraising ideas which are on the Outreach website.
http://www.outreachteen.org/aboutus/ways-help
There will be no more comments approved about Kelly or me interfering with Outreach fundraising. Sorry, Folks. Again, I tried to be fair, but bullies rule in this town.
Elaine
It's a shame you can't publish the name of the writer at 10:23. As someone initimately familiar with the entire evolution and subsequent execution of the Brewfest, I wouldn't mind educating the author since the individual lacks factual information.
If the author would like to discuss the situation, I am available at 412-304-6114.
Funny, we.'ve gone from taking money out of the pocket of Outreach, to maybe costing them money all the while ignoring the fact that Lebomag was ineligble to be in the contest in the first place.
10:23 am why don't you have an issue with the school board, their architect, the administration and their solicitor that cost Mt. Lebanon taxpayers over $50,000 fighting over parking spots at the high school?
Had they followed the zoning code or applied for an exemption as they were advised to do, $50,000+ wouldn't have been spent needlessly.
Then if the community so desired it could've given Outreach $20,000 and still kept $30,000 in the bank.
Why don't you go after the SAB and tell them to quit trying to suck up the $870,000 for turf. Kids andadults are dying and Outreach may be able to save them, but the SAB doesn't give a sh*t... They want turf and environment polluting lights.
Knock off your nonsense, their are plenty of charities doing good work, supporting wounded vets, cancer victims, animal friends, the blind-- the list is endless. They need money... fundraisers... why the focus on Outreach?
Question for you 10:23 am, this fine charitable work the PIO is doing for Outreach... is she doing it on or off the clock?
Then her little initiative to raise $10,000 by being in the Pittsburgh Business Times Social Media Contrst.
The rules specifically say government associated organizlations aren't eligible. Lebomag identified itself as being Published by the municipality.
So, either the PIO thinks the magazine is HER little private operation or she is making us look bad by engaging in fraudulent behavior.
While trying to find an extra $10,000 for a worthy charity is to be commended, doing thru deceptive behavior is not very ethical.
There are a lot of methods for raising money, she could've just asked for help and I'm sure the community would've rallied.
Is this an example of how much Lebo has degenerated?
That to participate in a contest the rules mean nothing, instead for Lebo the end now justifies the means!
W've stooped so low as a community that we must cheat to raise money for a charitable organization?
Are there people here so ethically and morally bankrupt that they can't see why winning the prize would've been wrong had Lebomag garnered it.
This discussion isn't about a lousy $10,000 prize, it's really about moral turpitude!
Has anyone actually looked at the annual report for Outreach? Take a look at how they get a bulk of their financing. Then take a look at their "fundraising" efforts. Worthy goals or not, they havent exactly been breaking a sweat in terms of making a public ask for funding. Our community has no business providing the bulk of financing for ANY nonprofit.
On whose part, 3:55 PM? Certainly not the PIO, right? Riiiight.
Elaine
3:23 -- your feeble attempts to make the Public Information Office look bad or selfish for its efforts in bringing the community together to raise money for charity are nothing short of pathetic and do nothing other than highlight this blog's irrational, raging jealousy of that very valuable office.
Also, 3:23, as someone who greatly values Outreach South's services, your belittling comment about "her little initiative." Um, for some of us 10,000 is not a little anything. Especially a charity. Get some perspective.
Elaine, glad to see you're continuing to protect your soul sister Kelly by preventing any further commenting about her. She is the elected official, however, so I'm interested in why you are shutting down dialogue about her actions.
Finally, J.E. Cannon -- I too am intimately familiar with Brewfest (having served on the Brewfest Committee and volunteered at Brewfest each year until it ceased to exist), so I know *exactly* what happened and why it was shut down. And what was written here at 10:23 is the real story.
Elaine, in your post at 4:26, you accuse the PIO of acting with Moral Turpitude. I mean, the cutesy way you've worded it makes it look like you might not be (wink wink) -- but it's obvious you are.
You're on thin ice here legally assuming you didn't already cross the line.
Moral Turpitude:
A phrase used in Criminal Law to describe conduct that is considered contrary to community standards of justice, honesty, or good morals.
Elaine
Susan Morgans,
Would you please respond to my two emails directly?
Elaine
Answers.com describes moral turpitude as: "The phrase "moral turpitude" has differing meanings, but all agree that it is conduct which is not only contrary to accepted behavior, but that it also is grossly misdirected."
I always thought acceptable behavior when entering a contest, one plays by the rules.
If a contest rules say you can't be in the contest if you're a govt. entity, you don't enter the contest or if you weren't aware of the rules- bow out gracefully.
Lebomag says it is published by the municipality. Is the municipality a government entity or not?
Is... regardless of how charitable the intentions... trying to win a contest obviously closed to you misdirected or not.
Wonder how many suits and counter suits and negative publicity this issue would generate.
4:36 read and reread the 4:26 post. Unless my computer is deleting something I'm not aware the PIO nor anyone else for that matter is accused of anything.
Could you point out the direct accusation, please.
"4:36 PM" I was asking for clarification of 3:55 PM's comment. I didn't use that word initially. I had to look it up since I am not an attorney, or related to one.
Elaine
If a professional golfer entered a strictly amateur golf tournament without notifying the officials he was indeed a professional golfer, would that be contrary to acceptable behavior, 4:36? Even if he pledged to turn over his/her winnings to a charity?
Then further, if you were running the tournament would you continue to let them compete once you found out?
Well, 429, I can't take you seriously since you didnt sign your name. And no, what was written at 10:23 is most certainly not the story. Your credibility is further eroded (which is amazing considering your baseline is zero) when you throw in you "..volunteered at Brewfest until it ceased to exist". When did it cease to exist?
I find it incredibly sad that someone like you would take the time to go on a blog for the sole purpose of spreading misinformation. Don't we have enough of that nonsense in this community? We get it--you don't like Elaine. Noted. Since you're hellbent on playing gotcha by accusing Elaine of some wild conspiracy in "protecting" Kelly, my first question is, who are you protecting? My second question is,who are you?
Think carefully before firing off another hostile and misaligned response.
Is sponsoring a "Beerfest" to raise money for an organization that helps people with drinking problems - 'misdirected?'
Read the police blotter and count the number of DUIs, underage drinking, public intoxication infractions and tell me a Beerfest for Outreach isn't grossly misdirected.
In this town most of get involved in one way or another, charities of all kinds, Race for the Cure, The Library, The Dennis, Vet Memorial, Blue Devil Clubs, Girl and Boy Scouts, PTAs, Churches, you name the cause and someone is organizing a way to funnel money to their chosen charity. That's one of the things that makes Lebo great.
What is even more spectacular is that we open "OUR" schools, streets and fields/parks to make events successful.
I don't know if Lebomag charges to advertise these events, I know Elaine doesn't, but each in their own way tries to help the cause.
In fact if you read Elaine's original post here she was actually I think, drumming up support for Lebomag. At least I can't find anything in her post that infers... screw 'em vote for the other guys!
I can honestly say, I wasn't aware of the contest until I read it here. I can also honestly say, I didn't vote for the mag because after reading the rules it didn't seem fair for it to be in the contest.
So sue me!
As far as Beerfest for Outreach, it's the wrong venue for a right cause and if Kelly saw it that way, I agree with her 100%.
I wish people would deal with facts. Brewfest 2011 was to benefit the Veterans Memorial. Read about it from mtl's Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/events/270315022981729/
In Susan Morgan's own words, Brewfest 2012 was pulled from the veterans and proceeds were split between the Veterans Memorial and Outreach. http://lebomag.com/5105/brew-fest-tickets-on-sale/
10:34 AM, Outreach benefitted from Brewfest for five years huh? Yes, I am so evil. Bwahahaha!
Elaine
Thanks for the info, just going back to educate myself and see that it is Brewfest and not Beerfest, though my impression of the event, having never been able to schedule it, that the emphasis was on beer tasting.
I see also that the library holds a beer and chili fundraiser. Mmmmh a cold beer and a bowl of hot chili in January - yum, I'm not a stuffy teatotaler.
The other fact that Mr. Cannon pointed out how do you quit participating in a cancelled event if occurs in Sept. and we had one in 2012? Is 2013's Brewfest officially cancelled? If so, how does 4:29 know that for sure? Then beside bashing Kelly, who only has one vote, what caused the majority to vote for it's dimise 4:29?
They cancelled just because of Kelly?
I have sent an email to Kelly, my adopted commissioner, as was the previous Ward 5 commissioner, about Brewfest 2013. To my knowledge, it has not been canceled and it is to benefit the Veteran's Memorial.
Elaine
Apparently, seems as usual siomeone didn't get the whole story snd got their knickers twisted because they didn't get their way.
I heard from Kelly.
"Brewfest is most definitely not cancelled it’s on September 21st 4-7 in the Academy Lot.
We have been working with the Veteran’s Breakfast Club on the event.
VBC has been helping us with planning programs such as Memorial Day this year and retiring the flag on July 4th.
Brewfest was developed to fund the Veteran’s Memorial.
Last year, after the Brewfest 2012, questions came up as to how Outreach received funding from this specific event designed to raise funds for the memorial.
Currently, the memorial is in deficit and the memorial was looking at additional costs for an irrigation system. Plus, we had ongoing maintenance that was not getting done.
Honestly the memorial looked terrible weeks after the completion (we received numerous complaints) and even yesterday before the retirement ceremony, myself and a volunteer were pulling weeds to ensure it looked decent for the retirement ceremony.
This memorial needs ongoing funding that it does not have right now and the Brewfest funding can help keep the area well groomed and support much needed programming for the community and school children.
All with the goals and vision for its’ initial intent.
Commissioners (prior to 2012) were never updated on the change for the additional funding going to Outreach.
After a public announcement (check presentation) about the partnership of the Brewfest with funding going to Outreach,
Commissioner Brumfield and myself received calls and emails from former committee members and residents that had concerns about the change.
Commissioner Brumfield (at the time President) requested that the event return to the initial intent and asked for me to meet with a potential partner for the Brewfest.
Just a couple months ago I gave an update to the Commissioners and I requested to be the Liaison for the Veteran’s Memorial since it was in ward 5 and Dan Miller initiated the effort.
Again, the Brewfest is most definitely not cancelled.
Residents from the former committee and new members have joined to support the event on Sept 21st.
Chief Nick Sohyda is the staff liaison and I am the Commission liaison."
Some real curiosities in Kelly's reply (alleged reply).
First who would have the power to divey up the proceeds from the Brewfest between the Memorial and Outreach without the commissioners consent? Or did the commissioners agree and Kelly's incorrect?
Two, whose the wingnut now? Someone logs onto to the conversation and misleads the public that Brewfest has been cancelled and Kelly caused it. Talk about potentially legally malicious behavior! Who would benefit from such behavior?
Its impossible right nope for the radiating public to know the real answers to the above questions, they should know or better yet shouldn't have to be asking the questions in the first place. Unfortunately our local governing bodies don't think they're obligated to their constituents. They'd rather demonize and the first question should be in this bloggers mind... why!
JE Cannon III-
Which version sounds right to you?
1014: put a name to your question and I'll respond.
Too much BS here
10:14 it's nit Cannon's place to answer which version is right, because his opinion isn't the official version and will never be satisfactory.
The public record is the real version. Who had authority to shift Brewfest money from vets Memorial and why according to an apparent response from Kelly here, didn't the commissioners know about it.
The next question is who and why would they claim Brewfest has been cancelled if it hasn't been.
James Cannon III, a member of the Vets Committee (correct?) says it isn't. The Kelly respond here says it isn't cancelled, but an anonymous blogger days it is.
It is or it isn't cancelled, there's no gray area!
Somebody isn't being honest or really doesn't know the facts. James and Kelly (apparently) have put their reputations on the line by signing their comments.
1:44 so says you.
I'd say there appears to be truth and honesty here! Unless you can prove otherwise?
Elaine,
Ask Kelly to post what happened on her website then give us the internet address so we can read what happened from the viewpoint of a public official. Also tell her to show us where the vote took place to shift or not shift funds. This is way too confusing.
Do not ask me to read 100 comments again!
John Ewing
How about Brumfield, John? He has a blog.
How about an official version distributed by the official source of infomatipn... the Public Information Officer and Lebomag.com. Isn't that why our taxes support it?
Why is it up to Elaine to request it?
Wow, I have a reputation?
I don't understand something. People allegedly want answers, which demonstrates interest in the event and the facts. Yet, those same people won't sign their names (very suspect) and when facts are presented by two people who are actually involved, some troll jumps on the blog and tries to dispute it.
The event is on in September. The money will go toward the memorial maintenance. There is a new location and will, hopefully, attract more people. I'm not sure what the issue is with the hatemongers who keep posting dumb comments. But there ya go. Some folks need to lighten up and stop wrapping themselves up in things like this. It's supposed to be a fun event. This isn't about who controls what. Back off, buy a ticket, come to the event, taste some beer, and chill out. You might also want to keep things in perspective, anonymous angry poster. The memorial is about people who served selflessly. You should do the same.
As always, if someone wants to chat, please feel free to call 412-304-6114. Or you can email me at jcannon1775@verizon.net. I'm outta here because I have stuff to do.
Kelly suggest residents mark their calendars for the event Sept. 21st. Doesn't sound like it was cancelled.
Last night, Kelly sent this email to Manager Feller and cc'ed Susan Morgans, Chief Nick Sohyda, the Commission, and me.
Steve,
I answered Elaine's question about Brewfest NOT being cancelled without understanding the concerns about where her question was coming from.
Unfortunately some misinformation has been sent through LeboCitizens (not Elaine's fault) that Brewfest has been cancelled and the committee for the Memorial does not exist.
Can the PIO correct this information right away either via email or via the blog directly?
I don't want it to affect the fundraising efforts for the Vets Memorial/VBC that are currently underway.
Many thanks,
Kelly
As you can see, Susan did not do that. Instead, this LeboALERT arrived in my personal email this afternoon:
This is an important notice from LeboALERT.
Mark your calendar for Brew Fest, Sat. afternoon, Sept. 21, in Academy Lot Uptown. Benefits Veterans Memorial. More details coming soon.
Of course, Susan would NEVER support this blog in any positive way, so there it is. As Jim Cannon said, buy a ticket, have fun, and forget about the PIO's silly games.
And make sure you vote for mtl Magazine next year during PBT's Social Madness contest. And support Outreach. And go to the Garden Tour tomorrow to support the Library. See you there!
Elaine
"At 10:34 - I too heard the same thing about Commissioner Fraasch effectively shutting down the Brewfest Fundraiser, which proceeds benefitted Outreach (and had the side benefit of bringing a number of young people to Mt. Lebanon from throughout the region-- a real estate agent's dream) after taking its operation away from the PIO, which had run it impeccably for years."
Wonder if 10:23 on 7/5/13 will be apologizing to the Veterans Memorial Committee and the public for misleading everyone that Brewfest was cancelled.
Apologize to Kelly Fraasch for the - can we call them slanderous assertions - that she singlehandedly caused the event's cancellation.
Hope Brewfest is more successful than ever.
To answer the question about "Who has the most to gain by the brewfest becoming a failure?", well its the one who is no longer running it because of being an abrasive personality.
That person would not want to see the fundraising exceed what has happened in the past because it would prove that things in this town can be down by NICE people and still make a positive impact.
Here's hoping the next brewfest is the greatest success yet. And I dont care where the money goes to!
Serve the chili and pass me a cold beer!
...and that Outreach continues to serve the community!
A couple of things we learned from this.
• Somebody hates Kelly
• somebody has anger management issues
and apparently the other commissioners aren't willing to give the public the facts when they could easily correct inaccurate statements. Probably could saved 50% of the post.
A few more things we learned from this.
Somebody hates Kelly
Somebody has anger management issues
Somebody hates Elaine
Somebody had the BeerFest taken away from them
Somebody calls her Queen Kelly
Somebody knows all of Susan Morgan's names
Somebody wants to demonize this Blog
Where was Brumfield. Why didn't he step up to defend Fraasch? He only defends Franklin on your blog.
"At 10:34 - I too heard the same thing about Commissioner Fraasch effectively shutting down the Brewfest Fundraiser, which proceeds benefitted Outreach (and had the side benefit of bringing a number of young people to Mt. Lebanon from throughout the region-- a real estate agent's dream) after taking its operation away from the PIO, which had run it impeccably for years."
Somebody check the author of the above comment, I think they're CUI (Commenting Under the Influence)!
A side benefit is "bringing a number of young people from throughout the region-- a real estate agents dream." Seriously? Howard Hanna agents swoon all over young beer drinkers? Why, is it easier to sell someone a new home while they're tipsy, or what?
Do people ever think before they write stuff?
We could pass an ordinance legalizing pot smoking and attract thousands of young people.
Legalize prostitution., hey it works for Amsterdam.
6:08 AM, I like that. CUI.
11:28 PM, someone wrote to the editors at the PG and said, "This blog frequently conveys misinformation about both the school district and the municipality,"
Elaine
But you do. "Misinformation" as defined by the school board and the town's mouthpiece is anything contrary to what they state...like facts or the truth. The PG should learn some things from you , Ellen.
Somebody dropped a note to the PG editors about your blog and it's misinformation.
Yeah, like to PG does hard-driving, get-the-real-facts investigative reporting when they cover our school board or commissioners.
Hope the PG publishes that letter in their funny pages, that's a hoot!
2:29 PM, I published it under this thread, Another lie, Mrs. Cappucci?
Susan Morgans was a little cranky about the PG article written concerning Twin Hills. Click on this link for her email to the PG. She was actually nicer about my blog compared to how she made vicious, personal attacks against the reporter. I redacted that part.
Susan Morgans, Cissy Bowman, Laura Pace Lilley
Elaine, I am at a loss for words. Clearly, PIO Susan was having a bad hair day!
There were more emails exchanged between the PG and the PIOs, Cissy Bowman, Laura Pace Lilley, and Susan Morgans in the RTK, but I did not include them. Let's just say that the three amigas, I mean, PIOs were enjoying the moment.
Elaine
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