Susan justifies The Folio: Show UPDATED

Remember Mrs. Morgans Goes To The Big Apple? In today's mtl Magazine, Susan Morgans tells all of her readers why she is going to New York City next month.

Susan, comparing your trip next month to The Folio: Show which "is packed with lively luncheons, vibrant receptions and one-on-one interaction, all designed to give you a unique opportunity to meet with the people you want to meet and develop a professional network that will serve you for years to come" with Aaron Lauth going to the FBI Academy for ten weeks of hard core training is insulting. How can you put yourself in the same league as our chief of police?

Yes, your FEMA training was free and we covered your travel costs, but your trip to The Big Apple is not. Why we have to pay for your dinners with new friends is beyond me. Exactly what part of lively luncheons, vibrant receptions, one-on-one interaction (whatever that means), or having dinner with new friends will you be sharing with your staff when you return?

By the way, my tax dollars pay for your trips too, even though I didn't vote for any of the commissioners.

Update November 2, 2016 8:19 AM Keith McGill justifies The Folio: Show

From: Keith Mcgill [mailto:kmcgill@mtlebanon.org]
Sent: Tuesday, November 1, 2016 2:21 PM
To: Nicholas Meduho, Jr.
Cc: Commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>; Ian McMeans <imcmeans@mtlebanon.org>
Subject: Re: taxes

Good afternoon Mr. Meduho,

As I am sure you are aware one can quickly find countless articles on the internet espousing the benefits of continuing education and a well trained workforce.

Specific to Mt. Lebanon and my philosophy, here is a quote from an article that appeared in mtl magazine's October 28, 2016 issue, written by Laura Pace Lilley, Living the FBI Life.

"High-level training is important for top municipal staff. “The Mt. Lebanon Commission has consistently recognized and supported investment in advanced training for our municipal employees, especially those in leadership positions,” says Mt. Lebanon Manager Keith McGill. “This philosophy has allowed the municipality to remain an innovative and recognized leader in identifying available resources and providing services to residents in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.”

The conference that Ms. Morgans is attending has value in that media and the way people want to receive information changes constantly. It is important to have continuing education about everything from marketing and advertising to new software and design.There will be seminars on advertising, which could benefit the magazine by identifying ways to generate more revenue as well as other sessions which will offer insight and information that Ms. Morgans will bring back and share with the municipal staff, PIO staff, myself and the municipal commission.

Keith

Safety During Halloween

Another Safety Alert from Bellevue Borough. Continue reading how Mt. Lebanon handles safety during Halloween.

Message sent via Nixle | Go to nixle.com | Unsubscribe

Friday October 28, 2016, 1:49 PM Bellevue Borough     Community: Safety During Halloween Celebrations Dear Elaine Gillen, Health Department Urges Safety During Halloween Celebrations PITTSBURGH – The Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) is urging the public to be aware of pedestrian safety as the Halloween season approaches. Pedestrians and motorists who will be celebrating, should practice safety precautions. Under Pennsylvania state law, motorists are required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. “Drivers should drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn their headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances,” said Gwen Missouri, Coordinator of the Health Department’s Traffic Safety Education Project. “Popular trick-or-treat hours are from 5:30pm - 9:30pm, so drivers need to be especially alert for kids and eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.” Here are some helpful tips that you can use: · Encourage chil dren to decorate their costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers. · Have kids can carry glow sticks or flash lights to help them see and to be seen by drivers. · Select a costume for your child that is the correct size and length to prevent trips and falls. · Avoid having children under the age of 12 be trick-or-treat alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be without supervision, make sure they know to stick to familiar well-lit areas in groups. · Be alert and slow down when driving in residential neighborhoods, because children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways. · Remind children to enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully. According to PennDOT data, last year in Allegheny County, there were 375 crashes involving pedestrians. The majority of these crashes were a result of aggressive and distracted driving behav iors. The law states that vehicles shall yield the right of way to pedestrians in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. If convicted of violating this law, the penalties include a $50 fine and 2 points on your license. Motorists are encouraged to obey this law in order to prevent potentially devastating incidents and penalties from citations. The Allegheny County Health Department Traffic Safety Education Project offers pedestrians safety education for all occasions within the “Road Rules” presentation which is available to elementary aged students in Allegheny, Beaver, and Lawrence Counties. To schedule a presentation, contact Nicole Barnett at 412-247-7962 or by visiting www.achd.net/injury .For full details, view this message on the web.

Here is my email exchange with Mt. Lebanon's public officials.

From: egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
To: commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>
Cc: kmcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>
Sent: Thu, Oct 27, 2016 11:49 pm
Subject: Halloween

Commissioners,

As I normally do, I copied Keith McGill since you are having him answer your constituents' emails. Perhaps you should consider sharing your stipends with him, since he is doing part of your jobs.

I am sending you a link to my email exchange with you folks last year concerning hunting on Halloween. 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9r_1biKte_bZXZ0N1QyRlVWcTQ/view?usp=sharing

Will you be doing this again this year since Halloween falls on a Monday, and archery will be taking place on public and private properties? Please let me know how you plan to handle hunting on Halloween this year.

I am also sending you an email exchange from last year when Susan Morgans said that she would be worried about hunting on Halloween -- if she were a witch.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9r_1biKte_bdDBJVVlTVEN6M2s/view?usp=sharing

If worrying about hunting on Halloween and children's safety makes me a witch, then so be it.

Elaine Gillen

I heard back from Keith McGill.

From: Keith Mcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>
To: egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
Cc: Commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>
Sent: Fri, Oct 28, 2016 8:14 am
Subject: Re: Halloween

Good morning Elaine,

Archers participating in the municipal program will not be hunting on Halloween.

Keith

Another way to beat the RTK law?

Every week, the municipal manager publishes an administrative report. It is primarily for the commissioners, but also distributed to former commissioners, staff, etc., and provides a snapshot to the commissioners by department. This was sent out last week. Administrative Report #43 October 21, 2016

This one line caught my attention.

Intranet = a private network accessible only to an organization's staff.

I seem to remember reading something about an intranet communication involving last year's pancake breakfast. Or it was a retirement party. Grrr. Can't remember exactly what the event was.

I can understand the need for a benefits portal, but why would the Public Information Office need access to an intranet? Oh wait. I know. One of the finest ladies in Mt. Lebanon is transparent enough.

When filing RTKs, don't forget to ask for intranet communications, texts, emails...

Are we being vindictive, Susan? UPDATED

Or is it censorship? Or favoring one presidential candidate over another?

Let me back up. Yesterday, I read the online article what's your sign which was posted on lebomag.com.

The author writes

When did we become so skittish about dialogue? We argue about taxes and construction, sporting events and rules. Why can’t we show our colors this election?

I totally agree with her. I continued to read the comment that was published under the article.

I suspect many Clinton supporters do not advertise on their lawns for fear of property damage at the hands of more extreme right wing Trump supporters ( not necessarily from the community )...

I submitted this comment yesterday, and I am still waiting for approval.

Property damage? Seriously? There are many election signs in my neighborhood and they have not experienced any property damage.

So what gives, Public Information Office?

Update October 26, 2016 1:42 PM My comment was finally published. I guess the PIO is just overworked and couldn't get to it in a timely manner. Anyway, thanks for publishing it, PIO.

Photo taken by child UPDATED

Hunter at Twin Hills Park
October 24, 2016 @ 3:10 PM

Hunter later spotted parked in his driveway on Beverly Road.

Update October 25, 2016 1:33 AM A reader sent this pic of a homemade Not In My Yard sign on Connor Road.

NOT IN MY YARD

Update October 27, 2016 9:31 AM Arby's must have taken notice of the "Eat More Venison" sign in Mission Hills. Venison sandwiches will be available November 25-28 at the Library Road Arby's.
Arby's offering venison sandwich in hunting markets — including Pittsburgh

An ALERT from somewhere OTHER than Lebo

Tuesday October 25, 2016, 10:05 AM Franklin Park Borough Police Department

Advisory: IRS has issued a warning regarding fake tax bills related to the Affordable Care Act being sent via email Dear Elaine Gillen, The Franklin Park Police has received information that the IRS is warning tax payers and tax professionals that fake emails are being sent claiming that an IRS tax bill (CP2000) related to the Affordable Care Act is due. The CP2000 is a notice commonly mailed to taxpayers through the US Postal Service. It is never sent as part of an email to taxpayers! The attached PDF document has additional information. If you receive one of these notices through email, please don't respond and simply delete the email. There is no need to conact our agency. If you receive one of these emails and accidentally respond or send in any funds, contact our agency and file a police report. Also file a complaint on the Federal Trade Commission website athttps://www.ftc.gov/. For more information visit the IRS website:https://www.irs.gov/uac/beware-of-fake-irs-tax-bill-no tices* Franklin Park Police Department

*Corrected IRS link: https://www.irs.gov/uac/beware-of-fake-irs-tax-bill-notices

Speaking of sharpshooting UPDATED

I can't wait to hear why Tony DeNicola thinks we need to hire him again for possible "sharpshooting" for 2017. Discussion Session Agenda for October 24, 2016.

Is it because the 700-800 deer that we "suddenly" have are too smart for archers, but not too smart for "sharpshooters?"

Will the archery program which runs through January 2017 result in hundreds of surviving pregnant does and we will have a population explosion yielding thousands of fawns?

Will we ever learn what method of distribution Tony will be using for his proprietary corn, patented apples, and magic beans?

Oh wait. I know. Archery is ineffective without the use of bait. Yeah, that's it. See? Tony doesn't have to charge us for his advice. I saved Mt. Lebanon hundreds of dollars.

So commissioners, without knowing how successful the archery program is, without knowing how many deer were killed, without knowing how many deer have survived and live in Mt. Lebanon (and Scott Township), and without knowing if he is doing this day or night, you can approve another "sharpshooting" program and Tony will continue to make you guys look like chumps when he charges us $83,477 to kill up to 100 deer or $132,038 to kill up to 150 deer as per his RFP.

Update October 25, 2016 7:49 AM No worries, Commissionettes. Tony will be on the November 7 Discussion Agenda.

From:	Keith Mcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>
To:	egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
Cc:	Commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>
Subject:	Re: Discussion Session Agenda
Date:	Tue, Oct 25, 2016 6:06 am

---

Good morning Elaine,

Sharpshooting was removed from last night's agenda as Tony DeNicola would have only had approximately 10 minutes available last night due to a commitment in another community, This item will be placed on the November 7th discussion agenda.

Keith

--

Keith McGill, AICP
Municipal Manager
412-343-3684
kmcgill@mtlebanon.org 

Another one of Mt. Lebanon's finest ladies UPDATED

I was going through the archives on Lebo Citizens and found this April 2015 post,  Behavior Lesson by the Mary Larsen Party of Six Mary Larsen is another one of the finest ladies being recognized at tomorrow's event.

Mary Larsen was one of the commissionettes who spoke in favor of killing deer at the November 11, 2014 Commission meeting. What made that night so memorable for me was it was my first sighting of my future commissioner, Coleen Vuono. Coleen made her first appearance at a commission meeting in the 21st century. It was also when I spoke about seeing a beautiful buck with an arrow in his side on MacArthur Drive. The minutes changed what I said to seeing a deer with an arrow in his side near Bethel Park. I could never get those minutes amended.

Mt. Lebanon residents have an opportunity to come and mingle with Mrs. Larson, Mrs. Morgans, and the rest of the finest ladies in Mt. Lebanon. The latest on the cost of this charity breakfast is $20 for the continental breakfast and an optional $5.00 donation. There will be no admission fee. For now.

Update October 24, 2016 8:14 PM This is the only photo that I was able to find from Saturday's event. Only one of the finest ladies honored.

Not a pretty sight UPDATED 2X

Picture this. It is 10:01 AM and the North Garage is temporarily filled. You have a 10:00 hair appointment at La Pomponnee. You know that the Academy Lot is filled, but there is an open parking space right in front of the salon. You know you will be in there much longer than two hours and there is a two hour parking limit. What would you do?

According to Keith McGill, you are to turn around and park at the South Garage, down the street. This scenario happened to me this morning, as well as three weeks ago.

I sent an email to the commission and manager three weeks ago when this happened and again this morning.

From:	Keith Mcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>
To:	egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
Cc:	Commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>; Eric Milliron <emilliron@mtlebanon.org>
Subject:	Re: Here we go again
Date:	Thu, Oct 20, 2016 10:33 am

---

Good morning Elaine,

I am not sure if you considered the South Garage, which does have space available. Restoration work is currently impacting space at the North Garage this work should be finished in the near future.. The Academy lot would be another option.

As part of the proposed fee schedule for 2017 there is a recommendation to institute a fee for meters on Washington Road that would allow someone to park up to three hours. The third hour would be at a higher rate.

Eric Milliron is always working with our business owners and soliciting their input on ways to ensure the continued success of our business districts and has had numerous conversations regarding the issue of parking.

Keith

On Thu, Oct 20, 2016 at 10:20 AM, egillen476@aol.com <egillen476@aol.com> wrote:

I had a 10:00 hair appointment at La Pomponnee and the North parking garage is full as it was three weeks ago. I faithfully put in my two hours of quarters in the spot directly in front of the salon. I will not be able to go out for lunch on Washington Road after and will be a nervous wreck because my appointment will be longer than two hours.

This is crazy. The salons are suffering. The restaurants are suffering, not to say what it is doing to the shoppers who support small businesses. I will be another wreck until I get the heck out of here.

Elaine Gillen

-- 

Keith McGill, AICP
Municipal Manager
412-343-3684
kmcgill@mtlebanon.org 

So what did I do? I took a chance and fed the meter. Head full of hair dye and all.

I think that I am the only one who waits for the appropriate signal before crossing in front of the entrance to the North Parking Garage. Everyone else passes me by and walks when the signal shows the hand. 

When there is construction going on in the North Garage, which seems to be constant, God Forbid Mt. Lebanon eases up on their two hour parking limit. 

Fortunately, I was living right this time and escaped the wrath of the meter maid. I didn't stay for lunch because I knew I was pressing my luck. I turned left on to Academy Avenue and then cut back over to Cedar Blvd. and then came across this. No warnings anywhere.

OK, no problem. I'll get back on to Academy and down to Cochran Road. Maybe hit the Galleria for a sandwich at Panera.

And came across this:

I just went home.

Update October 21, 2016 1:32 PM Since I cannot post photos in the comment section, I wanted to share a photo of the beautiful Susan Morgans. See it isn't all about me, Susan. 

Update October 21, 2016 3:30 PM I don't see it, 3:23 PM.

Clarification on fee to attend Saturday's Celebrate Women Event UPDATED

The latest round of how much it will cost to attend the event to mingle with some of Mt. Lebanon's finest ladies.

Even though Keith McGill, both licensor and licensee of the event, claimed that the event is free if you don't attend the breakfast, one of the organizers is saying something totally different. There is a $5.00 fee to attend.

          From: Maureen Mamula [mailto:mtlwomenrecognition2016@gmail.com]
          Sent: Wednesday, October 19, 2016 6:56 PM
          To: Interested Party
          Subject: Event on Saturday

I am sorry I did not get back to you sooner-I was out of town.  Yes, you can attend the event without paying for the breakfast.  We do have expenses other than the breakfast, so the fee would be $5 per person.  We will be accepting checks made out to "Team PA Foundation" or cash at the door.  You mentioned you had other people who wanted to come too-I will need their names-our attendance will be limited by the room size.  

This getting comical now. There isn't a fee. It's a $25 donation. It's a $20 breakfast plus an optional $5 donation. It is free without the breakfast with an optional donation. There is a $5 fee to attend.

Let's cut the crap and admit that there are special rules for special people. Especially if Susan Morgans is in the picture. An admission fee is being charged for a two hour rental for a four hour event in a room where it is not permitted to charge an admission fee, as stated on a rental application signed by the manager of Mt. Lebanon as both the licensor and licensee, promoted for free by the Public Information Officer (one of the honorees) on the Municipality of Mt. Lebanon's social media and LeboALERT system.

Update October 20, 2016 5:53 PM 

From:	Keith Mcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>
To:	egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
Cc:	Philip Weis <philip.weis@bipc.com>; commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>
Subject:	Re: Just an FYI
Date:	Thu, Oct 20, 2016 5:21 pm

---

Elaine,

I have confirmed with Michelle that the information that I previously relayed related to the event is correct.  There is no fee to attend the event.  You may attend at 9:00 for the event and be admitted for free if you do not wish to make a donation.  Michelle will ask Maureen to make any necessary  changes to wording to clarify this issue.

On Oct 20, 2016 12:37 AM, "egillen476@aol.com" <egillen476@aol.com> wrote:

Commissioners,

There is a fee for Saturday's event in the Commission Chambers. I have posted the email regarding the admission fee on my blog.

Elaine Gillen

How do #33 and #10 sound?

Top-ranked middle schools in western Pennsylvania

It's the first time in two years the Pennsylvania Department of Education has calculated scores for each of the school districts in the state. Here's how local eighth grades did.

Andrew W. Mellon Middle School ranked #33 in the state.

Thomas Jefferson Middle School ranked #10 in the state.

Timmy earns more than the super at the #1 school district in the state

It's the first time in two years the Pennsylvania Department of Education has calculated scores for each of the school districts in the state. Good news for the Upper St. Clair Superintendent. Bad news for Super Tim.

Mt. Lebanon came in at #10 in the state.

Upper St. Clair came in at #1 in the state.

Thumbnails of the top fifteen (two districts are tied for #15) are here - ranked 15 to 1.

See the top 15 listed separately by clicking on the link above.

Go to Timmy's getting what? to find out how much our superintendent makes in a year.

This is so sweet

This story warms my heart. We have such good kids in Mt. Lebanon. Thank you.

At Mt. Lebanon High, a Homecoming vote of respect, acceptance

Another Important Message for Elementary Families UPDATED - New threat at High School

From: "Dr. Timothy Steinhauer" <noreply@mtlsd.net>

Subject: Important Message for Elementary Families

Date: October 14, 2016 at 2:12:03 PM EDT

To: Mt. Lebanon Elementary Families

Reply-To: "Dr. Timothy Steinhauer" <noreply@mtlsd.net>

Dear Mt. Lebanon Elementary Families:

Please see the letter below that was to sent Markham parents concerning an incident that occurred on their playground today. We have been working with the Mt. Lebanon Police Department since the incident was reported. I will keep you informed of any updates.

Thank you,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

---

Dear Markham Families,

I am writing to inform you that at 10:30 a.m. today, a Markham student reported to a staff member that he was approached by a male on the school ballfield area during recess.  The person asked the child to come with him.  The child ran immediately to tell a staff member.  No other students or staff in the area at the time saw the incident occur.  We immediately contacted the Mt. Lebanon Police Department and filed a report. The police responded immediately and conducted a neighborhood canvass as part of their investigation to gather more information. No person was found in the area matching the description. I have asked the MLPD to increase their presence around the school this afternoon.

As an added precaution, we will be keeping students indoors throughout the rest of the day.
I have asked our teachers to review the following safety procedures with our students before dismissal today.

 In the event a student is approached by a stranger they should do the following:

1.            Immediately run to a safe place
2.            Inform parent or adult of the incident
3.            Contact the police
4.            Try to get a good description of the individual and the vehicle

Please call me if you have any questions regarding this incident. I want to assure you that maintaining student safety is our number one priority. We will continue to be in contact with the Mt. Lebanon Police Department and will keep you apprised of any updates.

Sincerely,

Robert S. Freil, Ed.D.

Principal

*******

The High School has lots of security, including cameras. Not sure about elementary schools. The picture below taken of a security vehicle in summer at the High School. Do they think the high schoolers are criminals? Cameras would have picked up the man on the field if safety concerns were about outsiders rather than insiders and resources were distributed throughout the district.

I wonder if we still have the two security cameras for the high school renovation. I haven't checked that lately.

Update October 18, 2016 5:32 PM 

From: Mr. Brian R. McFeeley, Principal - Mt. Lebanon HS [mailto:noreply@mtlsd.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 18, 2016 3:17 PM
To: Parent/Guardian
Subject: Graffiti in Bathroom

Dear Parent/Guardian:

It was reported today that graffiti was written on the wall in a bathroom stating, “Everyone dies Tomorrow [sic]”.  Upon learning this information, the Mt. Lebanon Police Department was contacted. The police investigated and classified the incident as not credible.  Cooperation will continue with the Mt. Lebanon Police Department as they investigate this situation.  The school intends to prosecute the responsible party to the fullest extent possible with school consequences and criminal charges.

As an additional precaution, the school has requested an increased police presence around and in the school tomorrow.  The staff has been reminded to be especially visible in the hallways during the change of class and immediately report any information they may learn about this situation.

Sincerely,

Brian R. McFeeley

Principal

Where else but Mt. Lebanon? UPDATED 5 X

Where else does one get paid to promote one's self? Susan Flemings Stroyd Morgans does and is compensated quite well, in both salary and benefits, for doing it.

Remember this post? "Come and mingle with some of Mt. Lebanon's finest ladies" Sure you do. It was one of my most read posts this year. We know that Susan Morgans read it because she shared some "words of wisdom" for me, "anonymously" of course.

This morning, this LeboALERT was in my email.

From: LeboALERT <noreply@mtlebanon.org>To: EGillen476 <EGillen476@aol.com>Sent: Tue, Oct 11, 2016 9:31 amSubject: LeboALERT: Pa.'s Commission for...
This is an important notice from LeboALERT.

Pa.'s Commission for Women to honor five Mt. Lebanon ladies, Oct. 22. Muni Bldg., 8:30 a.m. $25 donation. RSVP, info: mtlwomenrecognition2016@gmail.com. 

This is on top of what I read on Facebook:

Here is the problem. Besides Susan Morgans or Susan Fleming Morgans, whichever name she decides to use, constantly self-promoting in mtl Magazine, whether it is her winery tours where she writes that all the bottles of wine (except one) were consumed before returning home, her hair, her shopping preferences, her cut-through tips, is now using MTL social media to promote an event that is charging an admission to an event in the Municipal Building. That is a huge no-no.

"Renters shall not charge an admission fee for events held in the public meeting
rooms and shall not sell products or services for private profit or gain."

It is not a donation of $25, as the LeboALERT advertises. The cost is $20 for a continental breakfast plus a suggested donation of $5.00.  Read the fine print.

The word "donation" is definitely used loosely in Mt. Lebanon. It covers up a lot of sins.

Update October 12, 2016 3:45 PM If anyone wants to attend this event, it is free, according to Keith McGill.

From: Keith Mcgill [mailto:kmcgill@mtlebanon.org]  

Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2016 2:12 PM

To: Nicholas Meduho, Jr. Cc: Commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>; Philip Weis <pweis@mtlebanon.org>Subject: Re: LeboALERT: Pa.'s Commission for...Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2016 2:12 PMTo: Nicholas Meduho, Jr. Cc: Commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>; Philip Weis <pweis@mtlebanon.org>Subject: Re: LeboALERT: Pa.'s Commission for...
Mr. Meduho,
If you wish to attend the event and arrive at 9:00 for the program you may do so free of charge. The $5.00 donation is suggested, not mandatory to attend the event. If you wish to arrive at 8:30 and have breakfast the $20.00 is to cover the cost of your breakfast. There is no admission fee. If you feel that the flier associated with the event is poorly worded I would recommend you contact the event organizer.

Keith

If anyone cares to mingle with some of Mt. Lebanon's finest ladies, a $5.00 donation would be appreciated. Breakfast is optional.

October 13, 2016 11:30AM Based on a comment submitted to Lebo Citizens at 11:16 AM this morning, The Pennsylvania Commission For Women was started by Gov. Tom Wolf, whose members are all members of the Democratic Party. 

October 14, 2016 10:52 AM More insight:

Hi Keith,

I am truly baffled by your upcoming Awesome Ladies event. Of course, it does not surprise me that Susan Morgans is being honored, because who thinks she is more awesome than she herself? And what fun for her to promote and host that ...

But I am not understanding the economics of this seemingly exclusionary, elitist event. The problem, of course, is that it is being held in the Municipal Building: a building which I own, as a taxpayer - not you or Susan, in your role as public servants.

I get the $5 voluntary donation part, but I do not get the "$20 to cover the cost of breakfast part." I have run many events like this, and there is no way breakfast costs the event organizers $20 / per person. In fact, continental breakfasts are usually less than $10 / per person.

Therefore, as you essentially signed my name approving this event in my building, I must know the following:
What is the exact total cost of the breakfast event in my building?

If, in the likely event, there is a surplus regarding people's breakfast purchases, who gets that money?

Who is providing the breakfast and exactly what are they charging, if anything (breakfast could easily be given or discounted for an event like this by a provider)?

If I wanted to hold a similar event in the municipal building for a foundation that I believe in, would you let me?

Thanks,

Dr. Jason Margolis

From Manager Keith McGill:

From: Keith Mcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>Sent: Friday, October 14, 2016 7:25 AMTo: Dr. Jason MargolisSubject: Re: Awesome Ladies Event
Good morning Dr. Margolis, 

If you are referring to the Celebrating Women of Mt. Lebanon event, this is not a municipal event. If you have questions regarding this event there is contact information on the attached pdf. If you are interested in a room rental the following link will take you to the appropriate page on the municipal website. 

http://www.mtlebanon.org/298/Meeting-Rooms 

In addition to our role as public servants, Ms. Morgans and I are both also taxpaying residents of the municipality.  

Respectfully, 

Keith 

Update October 17, 2016 7:40 PM  The contract for this event is here. It is for two hours, 8:00 AM to 10 AM. The event is from 8:30 to 11:30. Looks to me like it is a four hour rental at a two hour fee. Keith McGill signed off on it. Don't ask too many questions, Keith.

Update October 18, 2016 6:32 PM Celebrating Women of Mt. Lebanon event to honor five residents

New sign for DRIVERS UPDATED

At the intersection of Washington Road and Cedar Blvd., there is a new sign for DRIVERS.

Turning Vehicles Yield to Pedestrians

Is there a movement to alert drivers that pedestrians have the right of way? Wow, that's a big step for the Municipality of Mt. Lebanon.

Update October 14, 2016 11:27 AM To Zeke's 11:07 AM comment. There is a new sign at that intersection. No crosswalks, but there is a sign now.

Mt. Lebanon Man Sexually Assaulted Teen Girl Multiple Times

Mt. Lebanon Man Accused Of Sexually Assaulted Teen Girl Multiple Times

High School is closed today

From: LeboALERT <noreply@mtlebanon.org>
To: EGillen476 <EGillen476@aol.com>
Sent: Tue, Oct 11, 2016 7:24 am
Subject: LeboALERT: 10/11 - Mt. Lebanon ...

This is an important notice from LeboALERT.


10/11 - Mt. Lebanon High School (only) CLOSED today due to water main break on Cochran near Serpentine. Other area residents are also affected.

"Growing Together"

Video excerpt from a seminar on pest and deer management by Jessica Walliser, co-host of “The Organic Gardeners” on KDKA-Radio in Pittsburgh, PA and hosted by the Mt. Lebanon Public Library.


Jessica makes the same recommendations as Sandy Baker a.k.a. The Deer Doctor, had made a year ago. Plant deer resistant plants, shrubs and trees. Invest in The Scarecrow motion-sensing watering system. Have a double row of fencing using plantings or building materials.

It isn't rocket science, Folks. I wish the deer haters would take this approach rather than waste tax dollars which could be used elsewhere in the community. Which reminds me. Tonight, the commission discussion session includes the topic, Tax Rates.

Precautionary vs. Rethinking Down the Road

It is amazing how two towns can think so differently.

Pittsburgh-area schools invested big money in crumb rubber fields. But how safe are they for your kids?

Sarah Collins/PublicSource

As soccer players fight for the ball at the Keystone Oaks High School field, clouds of black pellets trail their cleats.

Precautionary?
But in the Chartiers Valley School District, concerns about the health effects of crumb rubber prompted the board there to choose “virgin” rubber pellets for the infill in its new field. Virgin rubber has never been used in tires and does not contain the chemicals in tire rubber, said superintendent Brian White. 

Mr. White said a resident brought concerns about crumb rubber to his attention and he shared those concerns with the school board. As a result, the board watched an ESPN video about anecdotal links between crumb rubber and cancer. 

The board then decided it would be wise to look into alternatives.

Meanwhile, back in Mt. Lebanon

The lack of conclusive studies stirred a local public debate in Mt. Lebanon last year. 

Some residents and town Commissioner Kelly Fraasch raised health concerns about installing crumb rubber turf at the Wildcat and Middle fields along Cedar Boulevard. 

The majority of the commission, however, voted in favor of installing the turf, and it was installed in summer 2015. The fields are used by community soccer leagues as well as the high school baseball and lacrosse teams. 

“I wanted to wait to research alternatives,” Ms. Fraasch said. “But there was a movement among the majority of the commission to get this done.” 

The commission, at the urging of community sports leagues, planned the switch from grass to turf so that the field use could be increased. After it rains, drainage and mud on grass fields create problems. Repeated use also wears down a grass field faster, said David Donnellan, director of recreation for Mt. Lebanon. 

In response to the concerns, the municipality sent a sample of each bag of crumb rubber pellets that were ordered to be used at the fields for testing at a private laboratory to see if the level of chemicals met EPA standards. 

“They met the EPA standards for the chemicals in the pellets at the time,” Mr. Donnellan said. “If new information becomes available down the road we will rethink what we are doing.”

Scott Township and Mt. Lebanon are certainly consistent. They have handled the deer debate with the same approach. Scott Township is concerned for their residents' safety, while Mt. Lebanon shoots first and then will rethink down the road, after the damage is done.

Municipal phones to be down on Wednesday

Do you think I will hear back? Ha!

From:	egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
To:	commission <commission@mtlebanon.org>
Cc:	kmcgill <kmcgill@mtlebanon.org>; smorgans <smorgans@mtlebanon.org>
Subject:	Fwd: LeboALERT: Municipal phones to ...
Date:	Mon, Oct 10, 2016 1:18 pm

---

Commissioners,

Since you approve a big chunk of expenses toward cell phone usage every month, might this be a time to share those phone numbers with the taxpayers who fund those bills? 

Elaine Gillen

-----Original Message-----
From: LeboALERT <noreply@mtlebanon.org>
To: EGillen476 <EGillen476@aol.com>
Sent: Mon, Oct 10, 2016 1:07 pm
Subject: LeboALERT: Municipal phones to ...

This is an important notice from LeboALERT.


Municipal phones to be down Wed., Oct. 12. Contact staff via email button at bottom of homepage, www.mtlebanon.org. For emergency, use 911.

What does this mean?

On Monday's Commission Discussion Session Agenda, Item number 5:

Section 914 Tax Rates from the Home Rule Charter

Is this going to be one of those crazy referendums again? Remember this one that was on the front page of The Almanac? Brilliant MTL Commissioners and and the Voters Violate State Law

November 2014

Oh what will they think of next?

No clowns here

Timmy sent this email to parents today. I am happy that he spelled his name correctly this time.

From: Dr. Timothy Steinhauer [mailto:noreply@mtlsd.net]
Sent: Wednesday, October 5, 2016 2:07 PM
To: Mt. Lebanon Parents
Subject: Important Message from the Superintendent

Dear Mt. Lebanon Parents,

As you may be aware, there have been rumors concerning unspecified threats made on social media represented by anonymous “clown” accounts that listed a Jefferson Elementary School among other schools in a recent post. As soon as we became aware of this information, we contacted the Mt. Lebanon Police Department. After looking into this, the MLPD believe this is a hoax and that no credible threat exists toward any of our schools. The MLPD also indicated that the Jefferson Elementary School referenced in the social media post is located in the eastern part of the state due to the names of the other schools mentioned in the post.
Out of an abundance of caution, the MLPD plans to increase their presence around our schools over the next few days and our staff will remain vigilant as well.
As always, the safety and security of our students is my top priority. We have strong safety procedures in place and work closely with our partners in the Mt.  Lebanon Police Department to maintain a safe and healthy school environment for our students and staff.
We will continue to keep you informed of any emerging issues. Please feel free to contact your child’s principal or me if you have any concerns.
Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of School

I appreciate all the emails sent to me today by Lebo Citizens readers. Some of the comments I received:

• Is Jody Maddock in town? 
• I can’t believe it. Tim says that it is okay to contact HIM with any concerns. That’s unusual.
• Yes, Tim, the safety and security of our students is your top priority. Of course.
• The only clowns I see are at school board and municipal meetings.

Timmy did fail to inform us of these emerging, but tragic issues. One clown was almost hit because he was unaware of the new Look Up Lebo campaign. Fortunately, his side kick saved him.

These clowns weren't as fortunate.

Wouldn't it be nice...

if Mt. Lebanon published their monthly expenditure list without having to file a Right To Know? Here is the August 2016 Expenditure List obtained through a RTK.

The school district displays its monthly expenses on a table at every school board meeting. Anyone is free to photograph it. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that Jan Klein does an exemplary job with the books. What I am saying is that the municipality needs to be more transparent with the monthly expenditure lists.

Monthly expenditure lists are only available after the commissioners approve the expenses. A resident cannot comment on the expenses before they are approved by the commissioners which are done at the end of commission meetings.

What the municipality can do, but chooses not to, is publish them on their new Open Lebo website https://mtlebanonpa.opengov.com/transparency#/.

If the Municipality would be more transparent, would they have approved Susan Morgans' trip next month to NYC? Mrs. Morgans Goes To The Big Apple Will we get to read about her visit at the very classy hair salon in Manhattan again this year? We already learned about her trip to Napa Valley.  There's two days she can write off as an unreimbursed business expense. 

It is my hope that the monthly expenditure lists become public information without filing RTKs. Utilize Open Lebo. And two, the commissioners actually start looking at these expenses that they approve every month. We know that Dave Brumfield doesn't read them and Mr. "Fiscally Responsible" McLean just glances at them. I don't know about the others. Does Mr. "It's Free" Silverman look at them or does he just like to take widows and Scott Township to court because it's free?

How about publishing the monthly expenditure lists? Let's use Open Lebo more. Transparency would be nice.