RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise. For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance -- due to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I won't because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one. I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just don't want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves. Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least for the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than most us on this "very cool list. Thank you. Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity. Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events. -----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task Force. But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have the Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting. RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605 -----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Marcie McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park Dear Highland Park Neighbors: This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor licenses for Highland Park establishments. My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had his car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult. When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to our house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment. Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went to Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity. I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park who has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut down. Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week. I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in the field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you. The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the better our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake. Marcie McGuire -- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood> -- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
Well said Kimberly Adams! Harold Love ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kimberly Adams" <KAdams@sustainablepittsburgh.org> To: "Brackney, Rashall" <Rashall.Brackney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us>; "Marcie McGuire" <marcie@mcgand.com>; <neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us> Cc: "McBurney, John" <John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us> Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 3:15 PM Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance -- due to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I won't because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just don't want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least for the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than most us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task Force. But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have the Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting.
RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Marcie McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Dear Highland Park Neighbors:
This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor licenses for Highland Park establishments.
My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had his car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult.
When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to our house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment.
Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went to Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity.
I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park who has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut down.
Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week.
I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in the field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you.
The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the better our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake.
Marcie McGuire
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
Selling liquor to minors is illegal. I don't know if the bar in question did or did not do this. In fact, I'm not even sure where the bar is located. Declaring a bar a "nuisance bar" is an action taken by the State Liquor Control Board, and it does have criteria attached to it. For more information about "nuisance bars," see: http://www.lcb.state.pa.us/Licensing/nuisance.asp I don't know any of the people who have remarked upon this topic to date. But I would hate to discourage individuals from airing their grievances through the institutions that are set up exactly for that purpose. Regards. ________________________ Mary Louise Ray Group Wellesley, Inc. 412.363.3481 Tel 412.363.3482 Fax www.GroupWellesley.com
Kim, I agree that we should not get in the business of racial profiling but I do agree that if the enterprise is selling beer to under age drinkers, they should have to deal with the consequences of breaking the law. Therefore, if Terry Villa is selling alcohol to minors, they are breaking the law regardless of the skin color of the minor. I have lived in Highland Park for a long time and seniority does not give anyone the right to break the law. Valire Carr Copeland --On Tuesday, February 01, 2005 3:15 PM -0500 Kimberly Adams <KAdams@sustainablepittsburgh.org> wrote:r
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance -- due to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I won't because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just don't want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least for the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than most us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task Force. But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have the Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting.
RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Marcie McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Dear Highland Park Neighbors:
This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor licenses for Highland Park establishments.
My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had his car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult.
When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to our house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment.
Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went to Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity.
I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park who has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut down.
Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week.
I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in the field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you.
The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the better our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake.
Marcie McGuire
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
Excuse me but I have to jump in here. Any bar that sells products to minors, is breaking the law and it is not a victimless crime. First, there is the young adults who are victims. If Terra Villa does not follow the law and card these individuals then it should suffer the consequence. Secondly, if those said underaged drinkers get into a car, we are all at risk. You the jogger, the children playing ball, the bicycle riders. We should not put up with this in our neighborhood. To state that someone who is concerned about our young adults being served illegally in bars is "full of the themselves is a despicable thing to say. If Terry Villa is guilty of these crimes, then Mrs. McGuire's request that others make that known to the authorities is the "right" thing to do. No matter how long a a bar/restaurant has been in business, it must follow the rules, just as we must. There are always consequences for breaking the law. All that Mrs. McGuire was asking was that if this had happened to anyone else, for them to come forward. She didn't ask anyone to make up anything. Thank you for your time. And please, if you know of other incidents call the numbers suggested in the earlier email. LeeAnn Wagner Cica On Feb 1, 2005, at 3:15 PM, Kimberly Adams wrote:
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance -- due to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I won't because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just don't want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least for the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than most us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task Force. But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have the Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting.
RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Marcie McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Dear Highland Park Neighbors:
This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor licenses for Highland Park establishments.
My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had his car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult.
When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to our house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment.
Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went to Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity.
I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park who has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut down.
Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week.
I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in the field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you.
The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the better our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake.
Marcie McGuire
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
Selling alcohol to minors is in a totally different class from blocking joggers on their route. I do not see this as treading in shallow water at all jean thomas ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kimberly Adams" <KAdams@sustainablepittsburgh.org> To: "Brackney, Rashall" <Rashall.Brackney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us>; "Marcie McGuire" <marcie@mcgand.com>; <neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us> Cc: "McBurney, John" <John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us> Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 3:15 PM Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance -- due to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I won't because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just don't want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least for the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than most us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task Force. But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have the Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting.
RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Marcie McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Dear Highland Park Neighbors:
This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor licenses for Highland Park establishments.
My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had his car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult.
When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to our house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment.
Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went to Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity.
I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park who has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut down.
Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week.
I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in the field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you.
The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the better our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake.
Marcie McGuire
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we are all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance -- due to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I won't because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just don't want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least for the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than most us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task Force. But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have
Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting.
RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Marcie McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Dear Highland Park Neighbors:
This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor
for Highland Park establishments.
My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had his car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult.
When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to our house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment.
Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went to Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity.
I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park who has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut down.
Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week.
I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in
I think what a lot of people are failing to acknowledge is that one or even a handful of reports of underage liquor sales may not constitute "nuisance" for everyone. Nuisance is subjective. Some of us might hate litter or noise might be our nuisance. Certainly, underage liquor sales are a serious problem that should be reported, policed and prosecuted. I think it reckless to start fanning the flames to label any business a nuisance if we can't agree on clearly defined criteria. Is a place a nuisance after one underage sale? Or is it two? Do I hear three? We need to proceed with caution before we start hurting business people because they cater to "types" that some people don't like. Harold -----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Clarke Thomas Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 5:04 PM To: Kimberly Adams; marcie@mcgand.com; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us; John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us Subject: Re: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park Selling alcohol to minors is in a totally different class from blocking joggers on their route. I do not see this as treading in shallow water at all jean thomas ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kimberly Adams" <KAdams@sustainablepittsburgh.org> To: "Brackney, Rashall" <Rashall.Brackney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us>; "Marcie McGuire" <marcie@mcgand.com>; <neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us> Cc: "McBurney, John" <John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us> Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 3:15 PM Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park the licenses the
field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you.
The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the better our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake.
Marcie McGuire
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
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There _is_ criteria. Again I point to the Pennsylvania State Liquor Control Board "nuisance bar" program. http://www.lcb.state.pa.us/Licensing/nuisance.asp The "nuisance bar" designation does not come about just by having one person lodge a complaint. It is not up to us, Highland Park residents, to define "nuisance bars," it is up to the state liquor control board, which has already done so. All any individual can do is file a complaint. It is up to the state liquor control board to weigh the facts of the situation and make a decision. And frequently that decision, if it is negative, comes in the form of a warning to the establishment -- not a revocation of the establishment's liquor license. ________________________ Mary Louise Ray Group Wellesley, Inc. 412.363.3481 Tel 412.363.3482 Fax www.GroupWellesley.com
I think what a lot of people are failing to acknowledge is that one or even a handful of reports of underage liquor sales may not constitute "nuisance" for everyone. Nuisance is subjective. Some of us might hate litter or noise might be our nuisance. Certainly, underage liquor sales are a serious problem that should be reported, policed and prosecuted. I think it reckless to start fanning the flames to label any business a nuisance if we can't agree on clearly defined criteria. Is a place a nuisance after one underage sale? Or is it two? Do I hear three? We need to proceed with caution before we start hurting business people because they cater to "types" that some people don't like.
The last time I was on Bryant St. I noticed the for sale/under contract sign was still there on the front of Terry Villa. Does anyone on the list know the status of that sale, who the buyer is, and what their plans are for the business?
From the PLCB website definition of 'nuisance bar':
"If the licensee has by its conduct or record of violation, demonstrated a pattern of activities which is in conflict with the health and safety of the local community during its license term, the PLCB will refuse to renew that license." While that is clearly open to some interpretation, there appears to be a process in place to aggregate and review complaints and make a decsision about whether the establishment poses a problem. Whether that process works well is a different story, however. I'd like to broaden this discussion to the wider issue of renewal on Byrant St. The pace of change is almost undetectable. The brick wall put in around the parking lot of the market did not seem to prompt updates to the facades and has recently acquired grafiti. Debating whether Terry Villa is a nuisance begs the question of wether there is a place for anything other than bars and pizza shops on that street. Howard Degenholtz Harold Love wrote:
I think what a lot of people are failing to acknowledge is that one or even a handful of reports of underage liquor sales may not constitute "nuisance" for everyone. Nuisance is subjective. Some of us might hate litter or noise might be our nuisance. Certainly, underage liquor sales are a serious problem that should be reported, policed and prosecuted. I think it reckless to start fanning the flames to label any business a nuisance if we can't agree on clearly defined criteria. Is a place a nuisance after one underage sale? Or is it two? Do I hear three? We need to proceed with caution before we start hurting business people because they cater to "types" that some people don't like.
Harold
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Clarke Thomas Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 5:04 PM To: Kimberly Adams; marcie@mcgand.com; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us; John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us Subject: Re: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Selling alcohol to minors is in a totally different class from blocking joggers on their route. I do not see this as treading in shallow water at all jean thomas
----- Original Message ----- From: "Kimberly Adams" <KAdams@sustainablepittsburgh.org> To: "Brackney, Rashall" <Rashall.Brackney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us>; "Marcie McGuire" <marcie@mcgand.com>; <neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us> Cc: "McBurney, John" <John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us> Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 3:15 PM Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we
are
all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance --
due
to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I
won't
because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just
don't
want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least
for
the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than
most
us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
If Terry Villa has a reputation in the community for inappropriate or illegal alcohol sales, they can be added to the Nuisance Bar Task
Force.
But like Mrs. McGuire indicated reports need to be made. I can have
the
Task Force look at the Villa, and determine what additional steps we need to take to address the problem, but indeed the first step is reporting.
RaShall M. Brackney, Commander Zone Five Station Penn Circle West and Ansley Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206 (412) 665-3605
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us [mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of
Marcie
McGuire Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:05 PM To: neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Subject: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Dear Highland Park Neighbors:
This email is in response to Bob Staresinic's request to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston's offices regarding the renewal of liquor
licenses
for Highland Park establishments.
My teenage son and his friends have purchased beer from Terry Villa on two occasions (I'm sure it has happened more). Both times my son had
his
car and came home drunk! As his parents, we have taken care of the drinking and driving issue with our son, however, the issue with Terry Villa is more difficult.
When I found out that Terry Villa was the source for my son and his friends, I called 911 to issue a report about the restaurant selling alcohol to minors (even the 911 dispatcher knew of Terry Villa's reputation and he's not from the East End). A police officer came to
our
house, took the report, but said there was nothing they could do about this establishment.
Long story short, I contacted the State Highway Patrol Liquor Control Enforcement Division and spoke to Officer McNair. Officer McNair went
to
Terry Villa under survelience, but did not catch them selling beer to minor's on the two or three visits she made there. Officer McNair also reported Terry Villa to the narcotics division for suspected drug activity.
I can't possibly be the only parent of a teenager from Highland Park
who
has had this problem with Terry Villa. I'm sure you have all heard things about this place. And yet, for many years, they have managed to slip under the radar. I just don't get why they haven't been shut
down.
Please, if you or someone you know has had a similiar experience with Terry Villa, or if you are aware of such things going on there, I urge you to contact Jim Ferlo and Joe Preston and request that the liquor license of Terry Villa not be renewed. However, as Bob said, it has to be done this week.
I also urge you to contact Officer McNair at 412.548.2026. She is in
the
field most of the time, so you'll have to leave a voice mail with your concerns. It takes a while, but she will get back to you.
The more we report Terry Villa to those who can do something, the
better
our chances will be of keeping illegal beer (and possibly drug) sales out of our neighborhood. After all, our kid's lives are at stake.
Marcie McGuire
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
-- <http://www.highlandpark.pgh.pa.us/mailman/listinfo/neighborhood>
To all, This is the liveliest discussion I have seen in HP since the city wanted to cover the reservoir. As noted in many emails, the state has a criteria for nuisance bars. If someone finds an establishment that sells liquor to be a nuisance n any way, it it their right to complain. I applaud anyone who does and do not want to suppress someone's right to complain. Likewise, opinions in the community may differ on if Terry Villa is a nuisance and that is OK. However, I encourage everyone who finds Terry Villa, Six and a Slice, Taj Mahal or La Foret to complain. The state will take the appropriate action and it is not for us to condemn someone for voicing their complaint. With this said, I find it troubling that race was brought into this discussion. This mother who finds Terry Villa to be a nuisance for selling alcohol to underage persons never said anything about race. Later, this became an issue. The HPCC has a community plan and part of that plan has revealed that HP is one of the most balanced communities in Pittsburgh for racial composition. It is then in our interest to support this diversity and embrace it. Accusations of racism on a mother angry at an establsihment for selling alcohol to her underage children is not condusive to this purpose. We at the HPCC welcome all members of the community to attend our meetings held the 3rd thursday of the month. We would like to introduce interested members to the community plan and to the projects in the neighborhood. And we would like volunteers to help in the community, i.e. development of Bryant Street, etc. I hope to see some or all of you at the next meeting to exchange ideas and interests about the community and the direction we are headed. Thank you, John Ciroli HPCC Board Member --- Howard Degenholtz <degen+@pitt.edu> wrote:
The last time I was on Bryant St. I noticed the for sale/under contract sign was still there on the front of Terry Villa. Does anyone on the list know the status of that sale, who the buyer is, and what their plans are for the business?
From the PLCB website definition of 'nuisance bar':
"If the licensee has by its conduct or record of violation, demonstrated a pattern of activities which is in conflict with the health and safety of the local community during its license term, the PLCB will refuse to renew that license."
While that is clearly open to some interpretation, there appears to be a process in place to aggregate and review complaints and make a decsision about whether the establishment poses a problem. Whether that process works well is a different story, however.
I'd like to broaden this discussion to the wider issue of renewal on Byrant St. The pace of change is almost undetectable. The brick wall put in around the parking lot of the market did not seem to prompt updates to the facades and has recently acquired grafiti. Debating whether Terry Villa is a nuisance begs the question of wether there is a place for anything other than bars and pizza shops on that street.
Howard Degenholtz
Harold Love wrote:
I think what a lot of people are failing to acknowledge is that one or even a handful of reports of underage liquor sales may not constitute "nuisance" for everyone. Nuisance is subjective. Some of us might hate litter or noise might be our nuisance. Certainly, underage liquor sales are a serious problem that should be reported, policed and prosecuted. I think it reckless to start fanning the flames to label any business a nuisance if we can't agree on clearly defined criteria. Is a place a nuisance after one underage sale? Or is it two? Do I hear three? We need to proceed with caution before we start hurting business people because they cater to "types" that some people don't like.
Harold
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us
Thomas Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 5:04 PM To: Kimberly Adams; marcie@mcgand.com; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us; John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us Subject: Re: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
Selling alcohol to minors is in a totally different class from blocking joggers on their route. I do not see this as
[mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of Clarke treading in shallow water
at all jean thomas
----- Original Message ----- From: "Kimberly Adams" <KAdams@sustainablepittsburgh.org> To: "Brackney, Rashall" <Rashall.Brackney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us>; "Marcie McGuire" <marcie@mcgand.com>; <neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us> Cc: "McBurney, John" <John.McBurney@city.pittsburgh.pa.us> Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 3:15 PM Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
C'mon folks we are treading in shallow water. First of all, since we
are
all judgmental, the word "nuisance" needs to have a criteria attached with it -- otherwise it is a recipe for profiling -- racial or otherwise.
For example, I could call Tazzo D'oro "the coffee bar" a nuisance --
due
to the sidewalk being blocked when I choose to jog my route. But I
won't
because I love having the option of stopping in and having a bold one.
I don't go into any of the bars around here -- or anywhere. I just
don't
want to see anyone's enterprise threatened because we have become a little full of ourselves.
Terra Villa has been in the area long before most of us -- at least
for
the 20 odd years that I've lived in the park. Probably longer than
most
us on this "very cool list.
Thank you.
Kimberly Adams, Communications Manager Sustainable Pittsburgh 425 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 p: (412) 258-6646 f: (412) 258-6645 kadams@sustainablepittsburgh.org www.sustainablepittsburgh.org Sustainable Pittsburgh is a public-policy advocacy group that links economic prosperity, ecological health and social equity.
Watch for Champions of Sustainability and other upcoming events.
-----Original Message----- From: neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us
[mailto:neighborhood-bounces@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us] On Behalf Of
Brackney, Rashall Sent: Tuesday, February 01, 2005 12:38 PM To: Marcie McGuire; neighborhood@highlandpark.pgh.pa.us Cc: McBurney, John Subject: RE: [Highland Park] Liquor license renewals for Highland Park
=== message truncated === __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail - Helps protect you from nasty viruses. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail
First of all, I would confess that over the years (though less frequently lately, after a serious lecture from my physican) I have on occasion enjoyed a very excellent cheesesteak from Terry Villa . . . . At the same time, I think we've had the issue on the radar for many years regarding underage sales, the sales of those large singles of malt liquor, the tolerance of young kids and teenagers hanging around the front door asking over-21's to buy for them, etc. I'm glad appropriate complaints were made when these incidents occured, and I trust the authorities will respond as the law directs them. I find it especially encouraging that our Zone 5 commander is following the discussion and responding positively. I notice that the "for sale" sign on the front of the restaurant now is marked "under contract," and I hope if there are new owners that we in the community, via HPCC and CDC, might develop a more friendly relationship with them, to enhance communications. A well-run hoagie shop and casual restaurant is and can be an asset to our business district, and a good message to the new owners will be that they can prosper without crossing over to the wrong side of the street . . . . Bruce Robison
participants (10)
-
Bruce Robison
-
Clarke Thomas
-
Harold Love
-
Howard Degenholtz
-
john ciroli
-
Kimberly Adams
-
LeeAnn Wagner Cica
-
Mary Louise Ray
-
mitch kates
-
Valire Copeland