Tributes to Veterans-November 11, 2010

Veterans' Day-2010: "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."

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!

Super Snow!

The Super Snow of February 2010 will be remembered!  The more than 20 inches of snow blanketing the area was a picture postcard scene which at once was a joy to behold, soon followed by the reality of creating a mountain of work for many.  Happy were the kids for the cancellation of schools.  Happy were the snow removal businesses whose plows were put into overdrive.  Happy were the residents of Bellevue for constant clearing of streets thanks to the dedicated DPW crew!

The initial shock of the overwhelming task of clearing even a path was quickly surpassed by the community spirit which prevailed throughout the ordeal.  The sight of neighbors on the streets, assisting neighbors with snow removal from vehicles, parking spaces and the public sidewalks was a rewarding experience.  It was pure delight!   We are truly blessed that Bellevue is the kind of place where "community" comes first!

Veterans Day Ceremony in Bayne Park

Bayne Park was an idyllic setting for the Veterans Day Memorial service which began promptly at 11am on 11/11 in commemoration of the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany at Compiègne, France, for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front, which took effect at eleven o'clock in the morning — the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" of 1918.  Mayor Doscher welcomed the gathering to the annual ceremony dedicated to the Veterans of all wars.

Fr Tusky's faith-filled invocation was followed by a strident rendition of our National Anthem by Bellevue resident, Jade Young.  The highly decorated WWII veteran, Hugo Alicandri, led the observers in the Pledge of Allegiance.  And Taps, signaling the closing of the soldier's day...Lights Out was dutifully played.

Mrs Heffley's second grade class prepared a "Salute to the Veterans" with some reading their written statements of gratitude to the servicemen and women of our country.  Others in the class performed a songful tribute, raising their placards spelling the word V-E-T-E-R-A-N-S and waving American flags.

The keynote speaker for the day, Judge Michael E McCarthy, a Navy Seabee and Vietnam Veteran, spoke eloquently of his respect and admiration for all military personnel.  Jade Young and the combined 2nd grade voices continued the program with the celebrated 'God Bless America.'  The ceremony concluded with Fr Tusky offering the Benediction.  Ms Sharon, Librarian and Cultural Director offered refreshments to the guests.