Lamp Theater to become anchor of Irwin revitalization
Thursday, November 01, 2007
By Norm Vargo
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Westmoreland Cultural Trust has refocused its involvement in the economic revitalization of downtown Irwin to revive the landmark Lamp Theater as an entertainment and tourist destination in the fast-growing western residential areas of the county.
The trust's decision scraps the Greensburg-based, nonprofit organization's plans to invest $1.5 million to $2 million in the acquisition and renovation of the Thompson Building, which originally was touted as the anchor of the Irwin Project.
Attempts to get the 116-year-old building designated as a historical site failed, and planners had felt such designation was essential to the project's "Visit Historic Irwin" revitalization theme.
"We encountered unanticipated issues that resulted in lengthy delays," said trust President Michael J. Langer. "Rather than risk jeopardy to the Irwin revitalization effort, our directors put ambitions aside to focus on restoration of the Lamp Theater."
Built by the Aladdin Theater Co., the Lamp Theater opened on March 30, 1937. The 70-year-old theater does not qualify for consideration as a historical site, Mr. Langer noted, so there will be no similar delays seeking the designation.
After several owners, KCS Realty Investments purchased the theater in 2005 from Jean and George Rebich. The Lamp went dark shortly afterward.
"We hope the Lamp Theater shines brightly again as a beacon to attract people and tourists while keeping it a vital component of downtown Irwin," Mr. Langer told about 150 persons during a project review in the unfinished theater last week.
"Beacons like this one have been dark too long. More and more, cities and small towns across the nation are realizing the value of existing neighborhood theaters. The Lamp Theater is a treasure," Mr. Langer added.
"It's nice to see something old playing a vital role in the future of our town instead of being torn down to build something new," said borough Council President Danyce Neal. "A restored Lamp will benefit the entire Norwin community and surrounding municipalities."
Mr. Langer said the Trust spent $460,000 during the first phase of the theater restoration, including the $180,000 acquisition cost and $365,000 for a new roof and renovations.
Phase two will include a new stage, movie screen, electrical wiring, lighting, sound system, marquee and plumbing, including Americans With Disabilities Act-certified restrooms.
State Rep. James E. Casorio, Jr., D-North Huntingdon, has pledged a $15,000 legislative grant to help fund the marquee replacement.
"The final price tag could be about $800,000, all funded through grants and donations," Mr. Langer said. He projected a reopening during late summer or fall 2008.
With the aid of borough council, the Trust also received community development grants of $285,000 from the state and $175,000 from Westmoreland County Commissioners Tom Balya and Tom Ceraso this year.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Saturday, September 22, 2007
County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania elect Commissioner Ceraso to Board of Directors
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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CONTACT: Debra S. Tingley
717-526-1010, x 3335
Home: 717-921-8697
dtingleypacounties.org
Local County Commissioner Named To State Board of Directors(Harrisburg, PA)—Westmoreland County Commissioner Tom Ceraso was last week elected to the Board of Directors of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) during the CCAP 121st Annual Conference in York County Pennsylvania..Ceraso will serve on the 30-member board which oversees the Association’s affairs. According to Ceraso, “CCAP serves to strengthen the ability of Pennsylvania’s counties to govern their own affairs and improve the well-being and quality of life for their constituents. I know how these issues impact us locally. We share many of the same challenges as other counties statewide. As a leader of this Association, I can make a stronger voice for our county and for all the counties in Harrisburg, Washington and all of Pennsylvania.”.CCAP, founded in 1886, is a statewide, nonprofit, bipartisan association representing the commissioners, chief clerks, administrators, their equivalents in home rule counties, and solicitors of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. The Association represents county government on issues before the state and federal legislative, executive and judicial branches of government. CCAP fosters farsighted, innovative and responsive county service delivery, policy decisions and public resource use. The Association provides services and educational opportunities for its members so that they better administer the affairs of their offices to the benefit of the general public. For more information about Pennsylvania’s counties and CCAP, log on to http://www.pacounties.org/.
CONTACT: Debra S. Tingley
717-526-1010, x 3335
Home: 717-921-8697
dtingleypacounties.org
Local County Commissioner Named To State Board of Directors(Harrisburg, PA)—Westmoreland County Commissioner Tom Ceraso was last week elected to the Board of Directors of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) during the CCAP 121st Annual Conference in York County Pennsylvania..Ceraso will serve on the 30-member board which oversees the Association’s affairs. According to Ceraso, “CCAP serves to strengthen the ability of Pennsylvania’s counties to govern their own affairs and improve the well-being and quality of life for their constituents. I know how these issues impact us locally. We share many of the same challenges as other counties statewide. As a leader of this Association, I can make a stronger voice for our county and for all the counties in Harrisburg, Washington and all of Pennsylvania.”.CCAP, founded in 1886, is a statewide, nonprofit, bipartisan association representing the commissioners, chief clerks, administrators, their equivalents in home rule counties, and solicitors of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. The Association represents county government on issues before the state and federal legislative, executive and judicial branches of government. CCAP fosters farsighted, innovative and responsive county service delivery, policy decisions and public resource use. The Association provides services and educational opportunities for its members so that they better administer the affairs of their offices to the benefit of the general public. For more information about Pennsylvania’s counties and CCAP, log on to http://www.pacounties.org/.
Arnold Palmer Airport unveils tribute to namesake
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Toting a clay bust of Youngstown native and golfing legend Arnold Palmer last spring, world-renowned sculptor Zenos Frudakis got a vote of confidence on its authenticity from one of Palmer's closest confidants --
--his golden lab, Mulligan......Words of gratitude for Palmer's contributions to the airport authority were voiced by Greater Latrobe Chamber of Commerce President Andy Stofan; County Commissioner Tom Ceraso; U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy, R-Upper St. Clair; and county airport authority Executive Director Gene Lakin.
Read the full Article
Read the full Article
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Cabin among Westmoreland County's oldest
A little log cabin in Donegal is estimated to be one of the oldest log structures of its kind in Westmoreland County.
Constructed about 200 years ago, the log structure was built as a blacksmith shop for Jacob Gettemy, and much of the original workmanship and charm still exists today.
Over the centuries, the home became a private residence with modern updates and additions. Eventually it was encased in aluminum siding, and many people forgot that it was there.
The log home is now the site of the Mountain Herb Shoppe, and owner Judy Trabbold painstakingly has restored it to its look of two centuries ago.
A little log cabin in Donegal is estimated to be one of the oldest log structures of its kind in Westmoreland County.
Constructed about 200 years ago, the log structure was built as a blacksmith shop for Jacob Gettemy, and much of the original workmanship and charm still exists today.
Over the centuries, the home became a private residence with modern updates and additions. Eventually it was encased in aluminum siding, and many people forgot that it was there.
The log home is now the site of the Mountain Herb Shoppe, and owner Judy Trabbold painstakingly has restored it to its look of two centuries ago.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Tom Ceraso - the new owner of prize rabbits and chickens.
Congratulations to all the successful members of the 4-H, FFA and the community citizens and organizations that participated in Westmoreland Fair's annual 4-H and FFA Livestock Show and Sale. Commissioner Tom Ceraso was an active participant, and his winning bids purchased Grace Painter’s Reserve Grand Champion Rabbits and Karlee Rubright’s Champion Chicken Meat Pen cage of chickens. Those have to be the happiest rabbits and chickens in the county - what will Tom do with them now that he owns them?Read the whole story - 4-H animals net big money at auction
Two Events Improving the Life Style in the County
Bocce benefits Trust
By Dawn Law
FOR THE TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Monday, August 27, 2007
What a way to spend the waning days of summer: Tossing the pallino with good friends at Bocce nel Giardino.
The sixth-annual bocce tournament to benefit Westmoreland Cultural Trust was held Saturday at Greensburg Garden and Civic Center.
Defending champs Bill and Karen Thompson defeated challengers John Amundson and Bruce Leonard, 11-6.
But really there was no way to lose.
Off-court, there was a fabulous feast by Elegant Tents and Catering, plus relaxing to the sound of Tony DeNunzio and the Selections.
And proceeds will support Trust endeavors to stimulate regional economic and cultural development while promoting the performing arts.
Event co-chairwomen were Jan Taylor and Phyllis Kluska.
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Seen at bocce: Westmoreland County Commissioner Tom Ceraso with Dana, Greensburg Mayor Karl Eisaman and Carmen, Joan Stairs, Trust president Mike Langer, Trust chairman Terry Reese and Debbie, Terry and Jeanne Graft, Mud Kluska, Pat Condo, Dr. Jan Nigrelli, Chuck and Nancy Anderson, George Shaner and Michael Philopena, Doug and Val Wood, Doug Ramm, Bill and Becky Thorne, Dr. George and Linda Austin, Don and Mary Lou Hacker, Mona Pappafava, Rebecca Sexton, Rick and Lisa Hoffman, Barry and Marian DeBone, Duffy and Summer Friedlander, David and Linda Assard, Janie Belden, Sean and Candace Cassidy, Mike and Jody Keating and Pete and Peg Colosimo.
Keys for a Cure
It's the little things that put a smile on the faces of those suffering from cancer, like a get-well card, a plate of homemade cookies or a visit from an old friend. And it was the little things that made the American Cancer Society's Keys For A Cure gala so special in the eyes of the 100 people who attended Saturday night.
When guests arrived at Latrobe Country Club, each was given a candle to light in honor of someone who had battled cancer. The table in the ballroom looked gorgeous with dozens of flames representing the burning desire to find a cure.
As they dined, the crowd was entertained by pianist Brandon Bilsky, whose keys were the first of many for the evening. Dozens of guests paid $10 for a key that may have opened a glass box containing a glamorous diamond and sapphire ring donated by Jennifer's Jewelers, of Ligonier; Lara Provance was the lucky winner.
The gala is a yearly event, but income development specialist Leigh Ann George says the "keys" theme is new this year. So was the swing dance band, Neon Swing X-perience, who kept the crowd on their feet for hours after dinner.
Volunteers Dave Baird, Lisa Benson, Marie Christy, Megan Danilko, Stacey Droske, Jackie Hansen, Denise Martin, Provance and Arlene Seily helped to raise nearly $20,000 for cancer research and education.
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Seen at the event were Dr. Brian Stairs, cancer society staff members Nancy Tilley and Leslie Harrah, Bryan and Nancy Werner, Dave Bellis, Barbie Panazzi, Cecelia Pokins, Ed and Debbie Kincheloe, Rick and Carol Borland, Irene Brooks, Mary Kay Plank, Bill and Brenda Mise and Lisa McVay.
-- Jennifer Miele, WTAE
By Dawn Law
FOR THE TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Monday, August 27, 2007
What a way to spend the waning days of summer: Tossing the pallino with good friends at Bocce nel Giardino.
The sixth-annual bocce tournament to benefit Westmoreland Cultural Trust was held Saturday at Greensburg Garden and Civic Center.
Defending champs Bill and Karen Thompson defeated challengers John Amundson and Bruce Leonard, 11-6.
But really there was no way to lose.
Off-court, there was a fabulous feast by Elegant Tents and Catering, plus relaxing to the sound of Tony DeNunzio and the Selections.
And proceeds will support Trust endeavors to stimulate regional economic and cultural development while promoting the performing arts.
Event co-chairwomen were Jan Taylor and Phyllis Kluska.
.
Seen at bocce: Westmoreland County Commissioner Tom Ceraso with Dana, Greensburg Mayor Karl Eisaman and Carmen, Joan Stairs, Trust president Mike Langer, Trust chairman Terry Reese and Debbie, Terry and Jeanne Graft, Mud Kluska, Pat Condo, Dr. Jan Nigrelli, Chuck and Nancy Anderson, George Shaner and Michael Philopena, Doug and Val Wood, Doug Ramm, Bill and Becky Thorne, Dr. George and Linda Austin, Don and Mary Lou Hacker, Mona Pappafava, Rebecca Sexton, Rick and Lisa Hoffman, Barry and Marian DeBone, Duffy and Summer Friedlander, David and Linda Assard, Janie Belden, Sean and Candace Cassidy, Mike and Jody Keating and Pete and Peg Colosimo.
Keys for a Cure
It's the little things that put a smile on the faces of those suffering from cancer, like a get-well card, a plate of homemade cookies or a visit from an old friend. And it was the little things that made the American Cancer Society's Keys For A Cure gala so special in the eyes of the 100 people who attended Saturday night.
When guests arrived at Latrobe Country Club, each was given a candle to light in honor of someone who had battled cancer. The table in the ballroom looked gorgeous with dozens of flames representing the burning desire to find a cure.
As they dined, the crowd was entertained by pianist Brandon Bilsky, whose keys were the first of many for the evening. Dozens of guests paid $10 for a key that may have opened a glass box containing a glamorous diamond and sapphire ring donated by Jennifer's Jewelers, of Ligonier; Lara Provance was the lucky winner.
The gala is a yearly event, but income development specialist Leigh Ann George says the "keys" theme is new this year. So was the swing dance band, Neon Swing X-perience, who kept the crowd on their feet for hours after dinner.
Volunteers Dave Baird, Lisa Benson, Marie Christy, Megan Danilko, Stacey Droske, Jackie Hansen, Denise Martin, Provance and Arlene Seily helped to raise nearly $20,000 for cancer research and education.
.
Seen at the event were Dr. Brian Stairs, cancer society staff members Nancy Tilley and Leslie Harrah, Bryan and Nancy Werner, Dave Bellis, Barbie Panazzi, Cecelia Pokins, Ed and Debbie Kincheloe, Rick and Carol Borland, Irene Brooks, Mary Kay Plank, Bill and Brenda Mise and Lisa McVay.
-- Jennifer Miele, WTAE
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Recognition of Tribune Review's Article on Arnold Palmer Regional Airport "County Airport Flying High"
I share the enthusiasm of the Tribune Review as expressed in “Tuesday Takes” (June 26, 2007) on their editorial pages. “In the past we’ve set high standards for Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. Now it appears the Unity Township airfield is beginning to realize its potential.” The Airport Board, which is appointed by and accountable to the County Commissioners, is to be commended for their commitment to making the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport a world-class facility. We have been supportive of a modest but effective advertising campaign that has had a significant impact on the positive results that have been attained so far. Thank you, Tribune Review, for your vote of confidence, and thanks to all who worked hard to make this happen. Here’s to many additional successes ahead.
I share the enthusiasm of the Tribune Review as expressed in “Tuesday Takes” (June 26, 2007) on their editorial pages. “In the past we’ve set high standards for Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. Now it appears the Unity Township airfield is beginning to realize its potential.” The Airport Board, which is appointed by and accountable to the County Commissioners, is to be commended for their commitment to making the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport a world-class facility. We have been supportive of a modest but effective advertising campaign that has had a significant impact on the positive results that have been attained so far. Thank you, Tribune Review, for your vote of confidence, and thanks to all who worked hard to make this happen. Here’s to many additional successes ahead.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
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