Mt. Lebanon has a great sense of community, and you might want to put some events that illustrate that community spirit at the top of your list this year. The annual Tree City USA/Arbor Day celebration is at Washington Elementary School at 2:30, Friday, April 20. The children are working on posters, songs and poetry and will unveil a permanent piece of artwork to commemorate Mt. Lebanon’s Centennial that day. During the ceremony, children plant a tree, sing songs, present their work and raise the official Tree City Flag. This year, the children’s posters will be on display in Uptown Mt. Lebanon store windows. I encourage everyone to attend this event not only to commemorate Tree City USA/Arbor Day but also to see the children celebrate the trees that make Mt. Lebanon distinctive. Help the children feel appreciated, so that the tradition continues to thrive and GROW.
The following Saturday, April 28, Mt. Lebanon will continue to raise awareness of the environment at Earth Day in Mt. Lebanon Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. As always, there will be entertainment, children’s games, demonstrations of sustainable practices and environmentally friendly vendors.
On February 6, 2012, Mt. Lebanon kicked off its Centennial. Many exciting events are planned for the 100th anniversary of the community’s founding. For information about centennial events, visit www.mtlebanon.org [1]. Make the most of this once-in-a lifetime celebration.
When warmer weather arrives, Mt. Lebanon offers wonderful special events and recreational facilities—something for everyone. Activities ranging from First Fridays and the Farmers Market in the business district to concerts in Mt. Lebanon Park and Clearview Common are great ways to spend an evening or an afternoon. Take advantage of the newly resurfaced tennis courts or “take a walk with something to do,” as they say, at our historic nine-hole golf course. Swim at the public pool and meander along the trails that wind through our municipal park system. Enjoy yourself; after all, it’s spring. Up-to-date information about these activities, most of which are free, is provided by mtl magazine and other media such as cable channels 17 and 34, MTLTV, www.mtlebanon.org [1], www.lebomag.com [2], and LeboALERTS.
I have had the pleasure to live, work and serve in Mt. Lebanon for many years. I have seen Mt. Lebanon grow in many ways, and I believe it will continue to grow. We have wonderful residents who care to make a difference—this is what created our sense of community and will continue to strengthen the bond.
New ideas will have to surface, however, if we are to keep Mt. Lebanon on top of the “desirable places to live” list. The municipality and school district will need to come together to create better efficiencies and thus keep Mt. Lebanon viable. This will require great cooperation and entails a long list of items: Sharing services and facilities, cooperative fleet management, exploring transportation options, evaluating staffing needs and considering alternative taxing methods in a built-out community.
Many fine facilities and programs are already in place, but community leaders need to assess the present and look to the future, implementing policies and procedures that ensure Mt. Lebanon remains a community that attracts new residents who want to become involved and keeps the wonderful residents who currently live here.
Come to the Commission meetings (second Tuesday and fourth Monday at 8 p.m. in the municipal building) and share your ideas or just observe how local government works. If you can’t attend, then contact your commissioner with your concern or idea. You might also consider volunteering to serve on one of our 15 boards or authorities (download an application at www.mtlebanon.org [1].) Serving is a great way to implement an idea that may better our community for years to come. Do not let your great ideas go unnoticed.
Have a great Spring!
If you have any questions on this topic or any other municipal matter, please contact your ward commissioner. Letters to the editor also are welcome and may be excerpted in mtl magazine, 710 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228; email:lebomag@mtlebanon.org [2]; fax 412-343-7841.