By Matthew Peaslee

The beginning of July was filled with fireworks in the sky. The middle part of the month was filled with flowers in a field.

Donora, Pennsylvania currently has two blue roadside plaques with yellow lettering commemorating the “1948 Smog” and “Cement City.” The “1948 Smog” plaque stands in front of the Donora Public Library on Meldon Avenue and the “Cement City” plaque stands to the left of Chestnut Street and the Donora Veterans Memorial off of Route 837 close to the Stan Musial Bridge. These plaques were cast and erected years ago by the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission (PHMC) to recognize two things that give Donora incredible historic depth, but as we all know, Donora’s historic depth is deeper than just these two subjects.

Earlier this year, with the help of donations from local businesses, organizations, and individuals, the City of Monessen replaced the wooden planter boxes Downtown, which had rotten wood, and had been an eyesore for several years, with new stone planter boxes. Recently, the City was able to replace a nearly two-block long stretch of sidewalk in the heart of Downtown. The sidewalk had not been replaced since 1976. Similar to the beautification efforts in the City's parks, the City is now seeking donations for permanent benches, bike racks, and garbage cans to be installed in the City's Downtown District.

Residents in Monessen are working with City Officials to establish a new Dog Park, which will be located in a portion of Monessen City Park. Recently, there has been increased interest in establishing a dog park in Monessen. The park would be open to the public and would serve Monessen and surrounding communities. Organizers are currently working on a plan to make sure rules and procedures, and a maintenance plan is in place. Read more...