Community News and Notes: Ribbon Cuttings Welcome New Businesses

Community News and Notes: Ribbon Cuttings Welcome New Businesses

Create a joyful and pleasant experience in the main business district | Pepsi Refresh Everything

Imagine the possibilities! The Classic Car Cruise is in full swing and the do-wop music is playing in the background, audible all along Lincoln Avenue.

Raffle tickets winners are thrilled to hear their name broadcast over the speaker system. The wandering kids are instantly reunited with their parents.

In case you're wondering, my name is Michele. I'm the one on the right with Jim Viscuisi, at the South gate of the 2010 Classic Car Cruise sponsored by Classic Chevrolet.

I am the administrator for Enjoy Bellevue, the creative community collaborative, founded in 2008, for the purpose of connecting you with your community. We submitted this grant application to Pepsi Refresh to obtain $25K to restore and expand the now defunct speaker system on Lincoln Avenue. The intent is to make it available to community groups and organizations for broadcasting during activites and events in Bellevue. The base equipment is to be located in the Borough Hall.

Think of it! Music and announcements able to be heard throughout the business district during the Classic Car Cruise, the Summer Solstice Spectacular, the 5K Walk/Run Race and the annual Sidewalk Sales and "Here Comes Santa Clause" as the jolly old elf rides in for the Bellevue Holidays Celebration!



The grant depends on you! Voting determines who receives the support from Pepsi. A few minutes of your time is needed to make this dream a reality! Text* 104353 to Pepsi (73774) *Standard text messaging rates apply or sign-up online for this valuable community benefit. Together we can do it!



Nativity Walk-Nationality Trees 2010

Karen Rubolino is a wife, mother, physical therapist assistant, homemaker, Catholic and Bellevue resident who had an idea for a fundraising event for her daughter's school. Planning began in June as she searched for trees, lights, ornaments and recipes to represent various nationalities of our world. Her energy and enthusiasm for the project gained momentum and she enlisted the support of Principal Miller to facilitate student involvement in signage and participation in the event. Assumption teachers, Mrs. Heinle, Mrs. Schmitt, Mrs.Taylor and Mrs. Spindler are deserving of  a very special thanks for their involvement and support.

Volunteers Karen Lawrence, Rose Meacci, Dana Vargo, Ann Restraine, Eileen Quolke, Claudia Babicz, Dee Soost, Michele Smith, Rose Mary Flynn and Brian Lawrence, an 8th grade student, assisted with decorating the halls and providing for the guests in preparing and dishing out the delectable foods of the nations. Long noodles with mandarin oranges, Ravioli in tomato sauce, German potato salad, Oplatek with honey, Taquitos, Corn Dogs, Hoppin' Jack, Herb stuffing, Irish soda bread and scones topped with jam and clotted cream and Bûche de Noël were served. The community responded with donations of hundreds of sweet treats for dessert. An adorned "beany baby" tree was awarded to the winner of the raffle.

The Assumption Angels, Alley, Anna, Claire, Elana, Isabella, Margaret, Olivia S, Olivia V and our Littlest Angel Skylar were ever-present guiding visitors from one floor to the next to enjoy the displays in the halls of Assumption School.

The "West Winds" performed a selection of holiday melodies in the transformed gym and Ms Sharon, our former Cultural Director at Bayne Library presented the story time tales in the manner we have all come to know and love.

The Nativity Walk was a splendid display of precious scenes provided by devotees for this one-night event. The trees which are decorated in the country of origin tradition, will remain throughout the holiday season. Visitors are welcome to view the trees during school hours. Access is by way of the main office at the rear of the parking lot on N Jackson Avenue.

We are most grateful to all those who actively participate in promoting the community and in this case, the spotlight is on the Rubolino family for their exemplary effort! Thank-you!

Bellevue Holidays Celebration 2010

Santa arrived by way of the Bellevue aerial truck on this frosty evening warmed by the smiles,hot cocoa, provided by Joe's Rusty Nail, and cookies courtesy of the North Suburban Chamber of Commerce.

Costumed characters welcomed the little ones on the patio while they waited to see Santa. A blue spruce donated by the Bauman family was illuminated just before the jolly old elf appeared. Northgate Brass Ensemble students joined in the revelry delighting the crowd with a selection of holiday favorites.

Businesses on Lincoln Avenue joined in the celebration with story telling at The Muddy Cup, open house events featuring live music at Luigi's Pizzeria and Ristorante, activities at MG's Making Scents, Stew's Hobby Shop and Plank Eye Board Shop, carolers ringing in the season at The Shepherd's Door, wine and cheese at Lincoln Barber, and a photo shoot at Mane Attractions. The new Acoustic Moose Cafe  enjoyed the throngs of visitors in their newly renovated space. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Enjoy Bellevue Members Newsletter

All the good news about Bellevue packed into two pages and distributed monthly throughout the community!  This month features Bellevue Holidays Celebration, "Small Business Saturday" and Pepsi Refresh! Read all about it!

Veterans Day-2010 in Bellevue, PA

On the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour in the year of our Lord 2010, Andrew Bayne Park in the heart of Bellevue, welcomed Veterans and visitors for this annual tribute. The program presented in honor of all military service men and women, living and remembered, was introduced by Bellevue Council president Coder.

Pastor Brown of Northminster Presbyterian Church in the invocation, gave thanks and praise recognizing the enlisted for their service and the sacrifices of our fallen heroes.

In reverence, with hands over hearts, the National Anthem resounded loud and clear for all to hear! Shelby Thomas, a senior at Northgate High School was all that and more in her vocalization of the historic hymn in an extraordinarily moving performance of The Star-Spangled Banner. Tears welled in the eyes of many as the patriotic salute continued.

The highly decorated Veteran Army officer, Hugo Alicandri, who served in Germany during World War II, is a longtime resident of Bellevue renowned for his passionate recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. All joined with him in the salute to the great United States of America.

The traditional Taps, sounded by the U.S. military nightly to signal "lights out" was a live trumpet performance by our own Kassie Lorey, a graduate of Northgate High School and Geneva College.

The second grade classes from Bellevue Elementary, inspired by Ms Tennant-Heffley and her colleagues, Ms Maiette and Ms Scheponik, presented their own written tributes and the rousing choreographed melodies honoring all veterans.

Paul Bingham, representing the 42nd district office of State Senator Wayne Fontana was the keynote speaker. He addressed Bellevue acknowledging the contributions of the service men and women who have served our country.

Shelby Thomas returned to the microphone to lead those present in a soulful rendition of God Bless America!

Reverend Brown returned to the podium and concluded the Veterans' Day memorial tribute in Bayne Park with the Benediction. Refreshments were served as veterans and patriots exchanged pleasantries in the sun-filled park.

The entire student body of Assumption Grade School were assembled at 1pm in McGovern Hall where each of the grades K through 8 presented their special tribute to Veterans, family and friends. Ms Miller, principal of Assumption School, coordinated the enthusiastic efforts of the students, teachers and volunteers in this memorable and educational salute to Veterans.

The program began with an invitation for all Veterans to stand and be recognized. Red and blue ingredients poured into a container were sprinkled with white and stirred gently to bring forth "Old Glory" raised high for all to see!

Students recited poems and participated in song taking their places on the stage in a formation of the red, white and blue. Uncle Sam made a brief appearance. A Color Guard led the parade of flags which were ushered forth as Mr Bell, who teaches the 6-8 grade Social Studies, as well as Spanish and Math courses, provided a brief history of each one of the branches of the US armed forces. Traditional military songs including the Marine's "Halls of Montezuma," the Army's "Caisson Go Rolling Along" and the Air Force "Wild Blue Yonder" were performed with gusto! The American flag was presented and students revealed letters spelling out God Bless America. Students donned special red,white and blue glasses for the gleeful inclusive rendition of "You Are My Sunshine."

US history became clear through an introduction of the 1492 Christopher Columbus crossing of the Nina, Pinta and the Santa Maria. The Pony Express rode in and General George Washington arrived on the scene. The all hands-raised conclusion brought energized applause from all!

Refreshments were served and enjoyed by all. We are all most grateful to all the military men and women who have served this great nation to ensure the freedoms we all cherish. Today and everyday, may you accept our thanks and heart-felt appreciation for your commitment to our country!

Go Skateboarding Day-Free Skate Jam and Cookout

Summer has arrived! In Bellevue, the season kicked off with “Go Skateboarding Day-Free Skate Jam and Cookout” hosted by Plank Eye Board Shop, co-sponsored by Enjoy Bellevue.  Owners Carlo Leo and Brian Buck organized the 1pm-5pm event for skateboarders to demonstrate their skills on the ramps, skate rails, boxes and other obstacles. The $1 entry best trick contest began at 2:30 pm and ultimately the prize money was awarded to Jarred Michalski, a Fox Chapel native and a student at Pitt, now residing in Bloomfield. The title of overall best was also claimed by Jarred for the Go Skate Day.

Plank Eye Board Shop opened in July 2008, in the old Murphy Building, to then relocate to 11 Sheridan Avenue in October 2009. Carlo and Brian are pursuing a Skate Park at Bayne Park Researching other parks, attending Council meetings, exploring funding, the project has a great start, gaining momentum with members of the skateboard community jumping on the board for the sport. Go skate!

Eat Down the Street Campaign

It's a simple concept developed by Ms Cinda Baxter of Minneapolis, MN, to promote the brick and mortar stores which are the lifeblood of our communities.  It is called the 3/50 project.  You can participate by selecting three local businesses you regard as essential to the business district and commit to spending just $50 a month as a demonstration of your concern for the health and well-being of your community.  "Eat down the Street" is geared toward supporting the local eateries.  The Bellevue establishments are numerous, all providing for great eats!  They are here for your enjoyment and vital to our local economy!

This 3/50 project concept echoes the most recent Bellevue Borough intiative with Allegheny Together, proselytizing to "put your money where your house is" as an effort to advance the mission of "growing Bellevue to its greatness!"

The New Emerald City - Pittsburgh Magazine - April 2010 - Pittsburgh, PA

The New Emerald City - Pittsburgh Magazine - April 2010 - Pittsburgh, PA

"Pittsburgh has been earning oohs and aahs for our wizardry in the green revolution. This year, we roll out the green carpet as the North American host for World Environment Day."
By Lissa Rosenthal

Most definetly worth repeating! WED (World Environment Day) is the start of six weeks of green initiatives in Pittsburgh. Being green is all good! Go green and get more out of life!

Diane Birch - Valentino (Official Music Video)

This is pure fun! Very clever! Enjoy!

Embrace Life - always wear your seat belt

Watch and wear! Life is precious!

The 2010 WWII Memorial Calendar

The 2010 WWII Memorial Calendar is dedicated to the Veterans and Citizens from Southwestern PA. -Duty-Honor-Country-Service-Gratitiude. Matthews Arts, 12 N Balph Ave, Bellevue, PA is the North Hills location for the distribution and sale of this memorable piece. Proceeds from the sale of this calendar, comprised of submitted photos of many of the WWII soldiers from Southwestern PA, priced at $10.00, will be used to construct the Pittsburgh memorial. The triangular plot of land selected for the memorial, known as the Bosque, sits at the top of the Great Lawn of the North Shore Riverfront Park. Widely acclaimed as the "Greatest Generation," those who dutifully served our country during WWII are deserving of a rememberance of their service with the construction of this memorial. Visit Southwestern PA WWII Memorial for more information.

Bellevue tax collector to challenge Doyle - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

On Thursday, October 29, 2009, Joseph P. Nolan, Bellevue's Real Estate Tax Collector, formally announced his intent to seek the Republican nomination for Congress in the 14th Congressional District in Pennsylvania.

Speaking to an assembly in Bayne Park, Joe stated, “I choose to run for Congress because it is time that we return to our roots, to a smaller government that lets the people choose the course of the nation, and that lives within its means. When I take my seat in Washington, I will do it on behalf of the people who live here, the people of the 14th District, the people who have made America strong.” NolanForCongress

Bellevue tax collector to challenge Doyle - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Politics Doesn't Have To Be Scary

Join Enjoy Bellevue, the North Suburban Chamber of Commerce and the League Of Women Voters of Pittsburgh for a chance to “Meet the Bellevue Candidates” coming to your town on Thursday, October 22, 2009 ~ 7 – 9 pm in the Bellevue Elementary Auditorium conveniently located at 435 Lincoln Avenue, Bellevue, PA 15202 Refreshments will be served!

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3 - Do you know who is seeking election to represent you as your Elected Official? Have you heard him/her speak? Do you know where he/she stands on issues that are important to the residents of Bellevue? Are you concerned about Bellevue’s safety, schools, cleanliness, business district, etc.? If so, join us for this opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on these and other issues important to YOU!

Warm Winter Clothing Drives

Please consider donating your gently used outer garments to provide warmth this winter for those in need. Your generosity is most appreciated. Thank-you very much!

The Shepherd's Door Winter Clothing Drive

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North Hills Community Outreach Winter Clothing Drive

Shared via AddThis

The Pittsburgh Summit Update - September 8

 

Enjoy Bellevue has subscribed to the Pittsburgh G-20 Partnership communications to receive news about the upcoming Pittsburgh Summit.

This communication comes from Bill Flanagan, the publisher of The Pittsburgh G-20 Partnership site.   His comments ring true about Pittsburgh and the people of Pittsburgh whose work ethic and the desire to change and grow to ensure success in the region continues.

Savor the moment and Enjoy!

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A note from Bill Flanagan
Over the Labor Day weekend it really hit me. What a remarkable three weeks Pittsburgh has begun. On Monday Vice President Joe Biden led the annual Labor Day parade. On Thursday the NFL kicks off its season with a blowout broadcast from Heinz Field accompanied by a free concert in Point State Park with The Black Eyed Peas and Tim McGraw. Next week brings President Obama -- not for the G-20 but to address the national convention of the AFL-CIO.  And, of course, the week after that is the Pittsburgh Summit itself.

Countless people across southwestern Pennsylvania have spent the past 30 years laying the groundwork for something like this. We built on the best of our past and invested in our future.  The cranes are still in the air, with more than $4.5 billion invested or committed in our urban core alone. We've created a world-class quality of life, with a thriving arts scene and unique outdoor experiences that begin just a few steps from Downtown office buildings. Our restored Point State Park and LEED-certified green convention center are appropriate venues for national events and global conversations. We even have jobs, more than 30,000 openings across the ten counties of southwestern Pennsylvania.

 
Pittsburghers did not work that hard for all those years to impress the rest of the world. Mostly it was to make sure our children and grandchildren would have choices, choices to stay here if they wished. Yet it's nice to have somebody notice, especially when the "somebody" is the President of the United States.
Places don't get a more prominent position on the global map than Pittsburgh's going to enjoy over these three weeks. I'm pausing to enjoy the moment. It's unlikely our region will experience anything like it again.

In other summit-related news:
If you haven't already done so, please sign-up today for this Saturday's county-wide G-20 cleanup. This important work will take just two or three hours of your day to help ensure that key corridors of our city are clean, green and welcoming places for our international visitors. Click on the "Be A Volunteer" tab on the left side of our home page at www. PittsburghG20.org, and chose a project near you. Bring a friend! We hope to see you there.

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Pittsburgh G-20 Partnership communications. 425 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA

EB RATE -Tell us what you think about Enjoy Bellevue...

We want to hear from you!  This is your opportunity to provide comments and suggestions to promote the growth and development of the organization.  What say you?

EB RATE -Tell us what you think about Enjoy Bellevue...

Details and Links to Community Activities and Events

Take a Hike! Urban Hike is coming to Bellevue on July 25.  A four mile trek through Bellevue and the communities of Avalon and Ross Township, is an up hill and down dale walk of exploration and exercise.  Meet at Lincoln and N Sprague Avenues at 10am to join the hiking adventure!  New trekkers are always welcome.  Community Events are always on EnjoyBellevue.org

Details and Links to Community Activities and Events

Bellevue Borough Building Renovation

Real progress is being made in the renovation of the Borough of Bellevue Municipal Building.  Construction began in June and is scheduled to be completed in October.  It is truly a work of art!

 

Bellevue Borough Building Renovation
Borough Building Renovation Final Stages

Schenley Plaza

Sunday, July 12
2:00pm - 5:00pm

Kids Day- Enjoy!

Kids Day at Schenley Plaza features face-painting, balloon artists, a puppet show, mini-golf, and free rides on the PNC Carousel.

Schenley Plaza