Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Ta Da! Presenting the 2014 BrewFest Poster

Please support the 2014 BrewFest. Proceeds will help maintain the Mt. Lebanon Veterans Memorial and provide ongoing veterans programming.

After many emails, I was able to obtain a copy of the poster in a format suitable for uploading on Lebo Citizens, thanks to Kelly Fraasch.

From: Kelly Fraasch <kfraasch@mtlebanon.org>
To: egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
Cc: Susan Morgans <smorgans@mtlebanon.org>; Stephen Feller <sfeller@mtlebanon.org>; James Cannon
Sent: Tue, Sep 16, 2014 6:33 pm
Subject: Re: jpg or png file request


Susan,

Can you provide this to Elaine tomorrow?

Much appreciated,
Kelly


On Tue, Sep 16, 2014 at 5:31 PM, egillen476@aol.com <egillen476@aol.com> wrote:
Thank you for the update, Kelly. I still have not received or heard anything from Susan Morgans. Is a Right To Know required for my request? Please let me know as soon as you can. Since BrewFest is this Saturday, I was hoping to post it on the blog ASAP.

Elaine


-----Original Message-----
From: Kelly Fraasch <kfraasch@mtlebanon.org>
To: egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
Cc: smorgans <smorgans@mtlebanon.org>; sfeller <sfeller@mtlebanon.org>; James Cannon

Sent: Mon, Sep 15, 2014 7:49 pm
Subject: Re: jpg or png file request


Elaine,
They may have been waiting for me and I was in class from 9-4:30.  I am sorry for the delay.
If I can figure it out tonight I would be happy to send but I am a little weak with my tech brain.
Thanks for your patience.
Kelly

On Monday, September 15, 2014, egillen476@aol.com <egillen476@aol.com> wrote:

> Hi Kelly,
> I received an out of office reply from Steve Feller. Nothing from Susan.
> Elaine
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Kelly Fraasch <kfraasch@mtlebanon.org>
> To: egillen476 <egillen476@aol.com>
> Cc: smorgans <smorgans@mtlebanon.org>; sfeller <sfeller@mtlebanon.org>; James Cannon
> Sent: Mon, Sep 15, 2014 6:02 pm
> Subject: Re: jpg or png file request
>
> Hi all.
> I was in class all day.
> please let me know if this got addressed.
>
> Many thanks.
> kelly
>
> On Monday, September 15, 2014, egillen476@aol.com <egillen476@aol.com> wrote:
>> Good morning Susan
>> I understand the PIO created the attached poster. I would like to put it on my blog, but need it in a different format. Would you please send it to me as a jpg or in png format?
>> Thanks for your help.
>> Elaine Gillen

40 comments:

Anonymous said...

Any bets as to whether they will post a net proceeds, net funds or income statement on this bash ?

Did we hear about the financial results of the very recent Ultra Party ?

Come on PIO, cough it up ! Staff overtime costs will not be included, per their SOP.

Anonymous said...

Where in the hell are people going to park ? You're removing 89 lot parking spaces from use.

Anonymous said...

Did those who planned the Vet's Memorial know that the construction and annual operating costs would not be paid for by municipal taxes ? Did the public ?

Anonymous said...

9:53 Yes, and yes

Anonymous said...

Elaine your saying that the PIO wouldn't share the poster. Is that right?

Lebo Citizens said...

I wouldn't say that, but Susan never responded to my email. I understand that Commissioner Kelly Fraasch asked Susan if she sent the file to me and Susan's answer was No.

Is she having a hissy fit because of copyrights? If so, my son was the one who designed the logo. Maybe that is why she is uncooperative.
Elaine

Anonymous said...

So now you're using a veterans' benefit to further a petty grudge? Sounds "reputable" to me.

Lebo Citizens said...

When you say, "You" 9:38 AM, I hope you mean "Susan." I am just trying to promote an event.
Elaine

Lebo Citizens said...

I sent this at 9:35 AM on Monday, September 15, 2014.

"Good morning Susan

I understand the PIO created the attached poster. I would like to put it on my blog, but need it in a different format. Would you please send it to me as a jpg or in png format?

Thanks for your help.

Elaine Gillen"

Anonymous said...

Of course there is no cattiness from the PIO 9:38.
Lebocitizen is read by a number of people in the community, who was really being petty by withholding the poster art file for the Veteran's Memorial event?

Richard Gideon said...

"Is she having a hissy fit because of copyrights? If so, my son was the one who designed the logo."

EG:
My compliments to Joe for his design work.

Although it is not confined to this town, one of the sad and disheartening character traits of some of our local elected and appointed officials is an inability to take professional criticism. The reaction is usually to take such criticism personally, and to consign personal animosity upon anyone who has the temerity to disagree or, perish the thought, correct them. When a public servant refuses to address the needs or questions of a particular resident on the grounds of "hurt feelings" then that public servant should find another line of work.

Anonymous said...

These are the same "public servants" that arrange a public information meeting on artificial turf and predetermine what information will or will not be discussed and what questions will or will not be recognized and answered.

Lebo Citizens said...

I heard back from Kelly Fraasch. What a class act.

"Hi Elaine,

As I have said before it is my goal to meet your expectations, and a majority of our taxpayers, each time we can.
Sometimes we don't meet expectations and I apologize.
The ultimate responsibility falls on the Commission/Municipal Manager when we don't meet the expectations of our customers (taxpayers).

Your request was a simple one but had a significant delay.
It was my fault for the delay and lack of understanding of what the PIO would assist our committee with for this event.

In the future we will try and do better to serve your request(s).

Kelly"

Lebo Citizens said...

For the record, I NEVER heard anything from Susan Morgans.

In my next life, I want to come back as a Mt. Lebanon Public Information Officer. I will be well-compensated and be uncooperative with residents/taxpayers/volunteers. I can also be the staff liaison to the Community Relations Board.

Thanks to the many people who volunteered to help me the next time I need something like that done.

Why must there be so much drama associated with the PIO?
Elaine

John David Kendrick said...

Elaine,

I think that a better question is, "Why does the PIO need so much legal assistance when dealing with her management and the community?"

I've experienced the same problems dealing with the PIO. In fact, Susan had an email exchange with Dan Miller concerning me. Apparently Susan Stroyd doesn't like my commenting on the web. Susan doesn't answer my email requests either. Susan made a comment to Dan Miller about my ability to craft a message for a "family oriented publication" [MtL].

Really Susan? Have John's comments caused you angst about the human condition here in Leboland?

Well, maybe Susan should read these tweets:

https://twitter.com/mfreemanj

Susan, is this account holder the same person that works for you and writes articles in your, "family oriented publication?"

Everyone, take a look at the comment on March 24, 2011, "Omigod! I've got balls the size of hailstones!!"

Then there is this retweet on March 29, 2012, "Today is a good day if anybody wants to explore my sexuality."

In fact, there are quite a few shockers posted, not to mention the language! I am surprised Twitter allows such filth to be published.

I wonder if these Twitter posts and those email exchanges that I've been reading between the PIO staff are creating a hostile workplace environment for the municipal staff?

I agree with Richard's comments.

Susan, retire. It's time.

Anonymous said...

Susan has overstayed her welcome. Get lost Susan.

Lebo Citizens said...

Steve Feller manages all these people. Makes you wonder, doesn't it?

Wouldn't it just make Susan's day if this was the most successful BrewFest E V E R? ;)
Elaine

Anonymous said...

If it rains they can hold it in Brumfield's house. He can show everyone artificial turf samples and his lacrosse video.

Lebo Citizens said...

JDK, did you alert the commissioners about those offensive tweets? They claim they do not read my blog, but we know they all do.
Elaine

Anonymous said...

I'm going to float this idea although I am sure it will catch holy hell as it will be perceived as an attack on the Veterans Memorial.
Rather than building these grandiose memorials (ours is already built) why don't we honor our veterans and current military personnel with something that counts.
Rather than fundraising why don't we institute a Memorial Fee (say $2/year) for those that protect our freedoms and way of life.
From these funds we could perhaps give our vets and their family - free pool passes, tennis or golf course passes. Or free municipal parking. Or pay their MTL EMT subscription.
That way everybody contributes something to thank the people that provide us with the freedom to criticize our elected leaders and pursue our dreams.
There are approximately $14,000 households in Lebo. $2 from each would garner $28,000 annually.
Would say 50% Of that annually cover the Memorial upkeep?
Then the remaining amount could pay for those free to vets family pool passes and if anything remaining, be given to VA programs, Troop Appreciation or Wounded Warrior.
This isn't an attempt to rain on the Brew Fest, or insult our veterans, its just an idea put out there for opinions.

Richard Gideon said...

Speaking only for myself, this veteran (USAF 1966 - 1970; we had a little tea party going on called the Vietnam War) appreciates the sentiments of September 18, 2014 at 11:38 AM; but no thank you! The last thing in the world I would support is "enforced gratitude." In my opinion the best thing one could do for our Mt. Lebanon Veterans is to find and elect candidates who are loth to spend tax dollars on special interest projects, and who understand the value of a dollar.

I don't want the residents giving me tokens, tips or passes. If you want to do something for me and my posterity, lower my taxes!

Anonymous said...

11:38
I know Commissioner Fraasch fairly well and I think the feedback would be welcomed without any regard to being a negative idea. I would contact her.

Anonymous said...

Richard as I was imagining the Vet idea my very first thought was that these veterans most likely would be the very first people that would reject the idea of enforced handouts.
But hear me out.
First off, it wouldn't be mandatory that you or your brothers or sisters in arms partake of the handouts.
I was thinking it might be a nice gesture of gratitude for those that served or are serving that we relive them of some slight worry.
Say the sailor serving on a carrier that hears his wife needed to call for an ambulance and he suddenly remembers he didn't mail the EMT subscription.
Or the seniors on a fixed income that would enjoy a seasonal pool pass.
The idea was that it would honor pur servicemen and women and their significant others that serve as well through their daily sacrifice and worry.
I fully understand your lothing of "enforced gratitude" and appreciate that aspect.
Thanks for your service and cordial response.

Anonymous said...

To 4:40, I imagine Commissioner Fraasch has enough on her plate right now, so I'll hold off until I see an acceptance for the idea.
With one opinion in from one who really counts, it's not a good idea.

I'll add that if our commissioners can force me to pay a fee for rain water over which I have no control - a couple of dollars wouldn't hurt for upkeep of the Memorial and to offer something to those who serve that may need it at some point.
We already provide perscription and PAT transit benefits for seniors why not a token of appreciation to our service men and women.
Please though lets not turn this into a fight or political agenda.

Anonymous said...

I'm a vet from Richard Gideon's era. Mine was US Naval Air Reserve 1961 - 1968. I agree with Richard. Let's stop this incessant trend of taking and coaxing money from people, and take steps to enable peoples money to remain with people. Enough already!

Anonymous said...

OK doesn't look like a good suggestion.
Hope our commissioners, school board and state representatives heard the message about taking more money!

Anonymous said...

Just so I'm sure I'm getting this right.
A $2/year Veterans appreciation fee is undesirable, but student parking fees, lab fees, Increasing sports participation fees, PAYT fees, storm water fees, increasing turnpike toll and vehicle license fees, etc,., etc., etc. get various commissioners, school directors and state representatives and senators re-elected.
OK got it.

Anonymous said...

9:54 PM You're beginning to realize that our system of governance is morally, ethically and all too often financially corrupt. From local government through federal levels.

Lebo Citizens said...

From: LeboALERT
To: EGillen476
Subject: LeboALERT: Brew Fest to benefit...
Date: Fri, Sep 19, 2014 9:13 am

This is an important notice from LeboALERT.

Brew Fest to benefit Veterans Memorial is tomorrow, 4 to 7 pm in Academy Avenue
lot. $40 tix (at gate) include craft brews, BBQ meal, souvenir glass. 21+
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anonymous said...

This alert suggest advance ticket sales aren't doing very well. The poster states there will be LIMITED tickets available at the gate.

Anonymous said...

Unfortunately, The Almanac publicized this information on Sept. 11th.
http://www.thealmanac.net/article/20140911/LIFESTYLES/140919988


"Only those 21 and older with photo I.D. will be admitted to the event. All proceeds benefit the Mt. Lebanon Veterans Memorial and its ongoing programming.
Tickets are available only atwww.mtlebanon.org and will not be available at the gate."

"[Tickets] will not be available at the gate." Was this another Lebo typo or an error on the Almanac's part?

Anonymous said...

We now have two Anonymous posters saying limited tickets will be available at the gate and tickets will not be available at the gate. Would someone please sign your name so I know who to believe. Please.

Anonymous said...

6:10 the apparent poster shown at the start of this topic reads "Limited Tickets available at the gate."
The Almamac article, which usually is copied from a PIO Press Release states "Tickets are available at www.mtlebanon.org and will not be available at the gate."
The confusion was not generated by anonymous comments.

Lebo Citizens said...

I got an email from the committee with this message:

"Advanced ticket sales are doing just fine. But based on followup meetings by the committee, we thought online-only sales might exclude possible walkups. With summer weather predicted for this Saturday, we certainly wouldn't want to discourage people from attending simply because they didn't buy in advance. So there will be tickets available at the entrance.

Another slight shift relates to designated drivers. If someone shows up and represents themselves as a designated driver, that person will receive a different wristband than those choosing to drink. We are requesting a $20 donation from those folks.

We acknowledge there was a bit of confusion with the different messages. The minor tweaks to the event were recent, not all that substantive and will, we believe, serve to enhance the event for those in attendance."

Elaine

Anonymous said...

That designated driver wrist band is a good idea. Bravo.

Lebo Citizens said...

My son showed me how to save a pdf in different formats. It took about two seconds to do. I don't know why I was having trouble. Duh. Never did hear from Susan. Nice.
Weather will be perfect for you guys.
Elaine

Anonymous said...

How'd the Brew Fest go?
Looked like a good turn out and word from a couple of Washington Road restaurants they had a good evening after the event closed.
Be interesting to compared this years net with previous years.

Anonymous said...

This was my first year on the committee and it was a great experience. Our honorees added to the celebration - great weather, volunteers, band and BBQ! I think there were at least 360 there.

Our vets are sure something to be proud of, hope to see those who missed it next year!

-Charlotte Stephenson

Anonymous said...

Certainly a wonderful day for the event.
360 attendees @ $40/head yields $14,400.
A nice chunk of change.

Is this event growing compared to previous years?

Anonymous said...

No accounting of the revenue vs expenses for this year or any other year of the Brewfest!
Hmmmm