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December 2006: Thanks to Santa and his helpers

Thanks to Santa Claus for visiting with the boys and girls of the Bower Hill area on December 17th. About 275 children were able to give Santa their Christmas lists and have fun with holiday crafts, about twice the number that stopped by last year. Thanks to all parents, friends and relatives who brought the children to this event. Special thanks to PJ's Catering for their generous donation. We hope to have Santa stop by next year, too.

December 2006: Annual Fund Drive is Underway

The 2007 Bower Hill VFD Fund Drive is now underway. Information has been mailed to all known occupied residences in the service area. If you have not received a fund drive mailing, call the station at 412-221-3497 and leave a message. Your fund drive subscription includes your subscription to Scott Township EMS.


December 2006: Congratulations to Our Neighbors

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department offers congratulations to our fellow Scott Township firefighters from East Carnegie VFD on the delivery of their new truck, a 2006 KME Quintuple Combination Pumper with a 1500 gallon per minute pump, 500 gallon booster tank, 1000 feet of supply line, 65-foot aerial ladder and water tower, and ground ladders. The vehicle was delivered on December 4, 2006, and will go into service in early January of 2007. 

December 2006: Scott Township EMS News

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department and Glendale Hose Company #1 took delivery of the jointly-ordered new ambulances for Scott Township EMS on November 20th. These vehicles are of the "mini-modular" type for easier handling and patient loading, and reduced maintenance costs. The initial costs were also significantly lower than for the larger units that were considered. The former vehicles have been traded to the dealer, Penn Care Inc. of Niles, Ohio. See the Apparatus page for more details.  STEMS is jointly owned by the two departments, and provides full time Advanced Life Support EMS to Scott Township. Your membership subscription to Bower Hill VFD includes your subscription to Scott Township EMS.

December 2006: Breakfast with Santa

Santa Claus will be stopping at the fire station on Sunday, December 17th. We'll be having breakfast with Santa that day from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. There's no admission charge, there are no reservations needed, and Santa's Workshop will be open with crafts for the kids. Stop by and see Santa. If you have any questions, call the station at 412-221-3497.

December 2006: Get Well Wishes

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department offers get-well wishes to Firefighter Ed Zombek following his recent injury, and to Phyllis Yohe, wife of Life Member John Yohe and mother of Assistant Chief Pete Yohe, following her recent injury. Get well soon.

November 2006: Congratulations to New Member

Member Kimber Rugg has successfully completed her probationary membership period, and was moved to regular voting membership at the November 2006 meeting of the department. Kimber is currently enrolled as a full-time student at Virginia Tech, but still responds to calls when she's home during school breaks. Congratulations and continued best wishes.

November 2006: Congratulations to Reserve Member

Congratulations to Bower Hill Reserve Member Bob Kitchen on his promotion to Lieutenant in the Fairfax County, Virginia fire department. Bob undertook his new rank on November 25, 2006. Congratulations and continued best wishes.

November 2006: Congratulations to New Life Member

At the November 2006 meeting, George Fichter requested and was unanimously voted to Life Membership in the department. Congratulations and continued best wishes.

October 2006: Congratulations to New Parents

Congratulations to Bower Hill Firefighter Rob Cain and his wife Shawna on the birth of their son Robert Emory, born October 29, 2006. Rob is currently on active duty with the US Coast Guard, and is stationed in Florida.

Everyone is healthy and doing well.

October 2006: Thanks for making the Open House a success

Thanks to everyone who participated in our raffle and in the Open House. Your support of the fire department enables us to be there for you when you need us. 

October 2006: Scott Township EMS News

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department and Glendale Hose Company #1 have jointly ordered two new ambulances for Scott Township EMS. The vehicles are of the smaller "mini-modular" type for easier handling and patient loading, and reduced maintenence costs. The vehicles will be delivered in or about December 2006. STEMS is jointly owned by the two departments, and provides full time Advanced Life Support EMS to Scott Township. Your membership subscription to Bower Hill VFD includes your subscription to Scott Township EMS.

October 2006: Get-well wishes

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department offers get-well wishes to Firefighter Dave Teti following his recent surgery, and to Firefighter Joe Besso following his recent injury. Continued wished to Assistant Chief Pete Yohe following his surgery last month, and to his wife Colleen during her ongoing recovery.

October 2005: Welcome New Members

Bower Hill VFD welcomes its newest members: probationary members Michael Pruszynski and Ty Timko, who were accepted at the September 2006 meeting, and Junior Member Richard Chilton. Thanks for volunteering to serve your community.

September 2006: Congratulations to Reserve Members

Congratulations to Reserve Members Justin Short and Sara Wasageshik Short on the birth of their daughter Helen Eileen, born September 18, 2006.

Everyone is healthy and doing well.

September 2006: Fire Prevention Week -- Open House, October 15, 2006

The 2006 Annual Open House will be held Sunday, October 15, 2006 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the fire station. This year, we will feature:
Come and visit us, see what we do for you, and have a good time.

Raffle ticket booklets will delivered to all occupied residences in the area in September. Please return the tickets to the fire station at 161 Vanadium Road by 4:30 pm, Monday, October 9th.

September 2006: Scott Township Oktoberfest, October 14, 2006

Join Bower Hill VFD and the rest of the Scott Township community at the annual Oktoberfest, Saturday, October 14, 2006 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at Scott Township Park.

September 2006: Get-well wishes

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department offers get-well wishes to Assistant Chief Pete Yohe following his recent surgery, and continued wished to his wife Colleen during her ongoing recovery.

August 2006: Bower Hill receives equipment grants

Bower Hill VFD received a grant from the state for the purchase of six new radio pagers to replace pagers that were over ten years old and could no longer be repaired. This new equipment was funded by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community and Economic Development. In addition, Bower Hill VFD received a grant of $6,000 from the state's Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant program, to replace several smoke ejector and positive pressure ventillation fans, two of which were over 35 years old and were no longer compliant with safety standards. Also part of the VFC/VAS Grant was replacement of a 44-year-old hand-powered hydraulic rescue tool that was beyond repair. This equipment, long needed, will allow the department to better and more safely serve the community.

August 2006: Some visible changes at the fire station

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department has occupied its current building at 161 Vanadium Road since 1953. In that time, the building has been renovated several times, with a two-bay addition in 1967, a half-bay addition in 1972 (extended to a full bay in 1977), the upstairs hall in 1980, and renovations to the hall entrance and to the hall itself for ADA compliance in the early 1990s. The exterior of the building was repainted in 2003. Now, since it seems obvious that a there is no possibility of finding property for a new station and little chance of major rebuilding at the current site, several of the building's systems and features have been updated or replaced, with a particular emphasis on energy efficiency. The 1980-vintage single-pane aluminum windows in the hall have been replaced with insulated vinyl windows, the apparatus floor garage doors have been replaced with insulated doors with more than twice the R-value insulation of the previous doors, the hall entrance has been rebuilt, with built-in planters to allow for easier water drainage and elimination of water damage at the entrance way, and in the apparatus bays, we have new flooring, new gear storage lockers, more efficient lighting, new ceiling tile, and repainted walls. We've installed a new and more efficient heating plant, hot water tank, and gear washer. Still to come is the sealing of the asphalt in the parking lot, and the clearing of brush from the hillside behind the parking lot. The department is trying to be a good steward of its resources, with an eye to reducing long-term operating costs. The effort is already producing benefits, and the department's utility bills are coming down in spite of rising rates.

August 2006: Get-well wishes

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department offers get-well wishes to member Ron Morris following his recent hospitalization and to Firefighter Bryan Pritchard who was hospitalized as a result of the July 31st Black Oak Drive fire. Continued wishes to Colleen Yohe, wife of Assistant Chief Pete Yohe following her recent surgery.

July 2006: Benefit NASCAR Nextel Cup Party at Bower Hill VFD

A NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Party is scheduled for Sunday, July 16, 2006 from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Bower Hill Fire Department Memorial Hall. The event is for the benefit of the John Barbaryka Fund. John is a local resident who suffers from renal cancer. The fund was established to help him with medical and living expenses. All proceeds from the party will be donated to this fund. Admission is a donation of $10.00 per person (children 12 and under  - free). For more information or to make a donation to the fund, call Lisa at 412-874-6538.

June 2006: Get-well wishes

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department offers get-well wishes to Colleen Yohe, wife of Assistant Chief Pete Yohe following her recent surgery. Further wishes to Junior Member Mike Missonak following his recent hospitalization.

June 2006: First Parade Trophy of the Year for 255 Engine 1

255 Engine 1 was awarded the Best Appearing Heavy Pumper trophy at the Wellsburg, WV Volunteer Fire Department's parade on June 3. The trophy is the first one earned by a Bower Hill vehicle for the 2006 parade season. Thanks to Wellsburg VFD for inviting us to participate in their parade.

June 2006: Congratulations to High School Graduates

Congratulations to department members Jordan Fascetti, Adam Gnipp, Ryan Neary, Kimber Rugg and Pat Walther, members of the High School Class of 2006, on their graduation from high school. All these members plan to remain active with Bower Hill VFD to the extent that their further academic and career schedules permit. We know that all of them will be successful in whatever they do. We've seen their abilities. Join us in thanking them for their continuing service and in best wishes for their future.

June 2006: Community Service Fair Successful

Members Ceil Kitchen, Brandon Chaney, Ryan Neary, Kimber Rugg and Pat Walther participated in Chartiers Valley Middle School's 2006 Community Service Day in May, and gave an excellent presentation to the students about careers and volunteer opportunities in emergency services. This is always valuable to the students, and it is also particularly valuable to Bower Hill Fire Department right now, since the Community Service program at Chartiers Valley is always a good way to recruit new members. Thank you, members.

May 2006: Some visible changes coming to the fire station

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department has occupied its current building at 161 Vanadium Road since 1953. In that time, the building has been renovated several times, with a two-bay addition in 1967, a half-bay addition in 1972 (extended to a full bay in 1977), the upstairs hall in 1980, and renovations to the hall entrance and to the hall itself for ADA compliance in the early 1990s. The exterior of the building was repainted in 2003. Now, since it seems obvious that a there is no possibility of finding property for a new station and little chance of major rebuilding at the current site, several of the building's systems and features need to be updated or replaced, with a particular emphasis on energy efficiency. In the coming months, you'll see replacement of the 1980-vintage single-pane aluminum windows in the hall with insulated vinyl windows, replacement of the apparatus floor garage doors with insulated doors with more than twice the R-value insulation of the existing doors, a complete rebuilding of the hall entrance, with built-in planters to allow for easier water drainage and elimination of water damage at the entrance way, sealing of the asphalt in the parking lot, and in the apparatus bays, new flooring, new gear storage lockers, more efficient lighting, new ceiling tile, and repainted walls. We've already installed a new and more efficient heating plant, hot water tank, and gear washer. The department is trying to be a good steward of its resources, with an eye to reducing long-term operating costs. 

May 2006: In Memory of Art Fishburn, Life Member

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department extends its condolences to the family of Life Member William Arthur Fishburn, who died May 20, 2006 at the age of 91. At the time of his death, Art was the oldest member of the department, and one of the last members who was older than the department itself. He served as treasurer of the department for many years. He is also one of the foremost contributors to this web site, both by his great stories of the department since the 1940s and his donation of many of the pictures seen on several pages. He will be remembered as one who loved the department and the community, and who gave whatever he could, whenever he could, in its service. His family continues the legacy, with his granddaughter serving as a paramedic in Chicago, with the expectation of becoming a Chicago firefighter. Viewing was at Bogan-Wolf Funeral Home in Bridgeville on May 22nd, with a firefighters memorial service at the funeral home at 7:30 p.m. The funeral service was at the funeral home on May 23rd at 11:00 a.m. May he rest in peace.

May 2006: Congratulations to our neighbors

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department congratulates our neighbors in Mt. Lebanon on the appointment of Nick Sohyda as Fire Chief.  We hope to continue to work together protect both of our communities. Further congratulations and best wishes to retiring Mt. Lebanon Chief Steve Darcangelo, and many thanks for your efforts over the past 15 years. 

April 2006: Congratulations to New Members

Three members have successfully completed their probationary membership periods, and have been moved to regular membership in the department. Jake Lucas and Ryan Neary were moved to regular voting membership at the April 2006 meeting of the department, and Jordan Fascetti at the May 2006 Meeting. Congratulations, Jake, Ryan and Jordan.

April 2006: Thanks for Attending the Fish Fry

The 2006 Fish Fry was a great success, and we thank all who attended. Once again, we ordered enough of everything and made it all the way to 7:00 p.m. this year. Special thanks to all of the department members who worked so hard to make the event a success. And thanks to everyone who attended. We hope you enjoyed everything. Your support of this important fund-raiser helps us provide emergency service all year long. We hope to see you next year. In case you're wondering, that'll be Friday, April 6, 2007.

March 2006: Congratulations to new EMTs

Bower Hill Firefighters Brandon Chaney, Kimber Rugg and Pat Walther have all successfully completed EMT-Basic training and are state certified Emergency Medical Technicians. Congratulations, members.

March 2006: In Memory of Harry Hannold, East Carnegie VFD

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department extends its condolences to our brothers and sisters of East Carnegie Volunteer Fire Department and to the family of East Carnegie life member Harry E. Hannold, who died March 25, 2006 at the age of 75. Harry had served the residents of Scott Township with East Carnegie VFD for more than 50 years. We will remember him as a dedicated brother firefighter. May he rest in peace.

March 2006: In Memory of George Nelson, Life Member

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department extends its condolences to the family of Life Member George Nelson, who died March 15, 2006 at the age of 82. At the time of his death, George was the longest-serving member of the department. He served as a firefighter and in line and executive offices. Viewing was at Bogan-Wolf Funeral Home in Bridgeville on March 16th and 17th, with a firefighters memorial service at the funeral home at 7:30 p.m. on March 17th. The funeral service was at Covenant Community Presbyterian Church on Greentree Road on March 18th at 10:00 a.m. May he rest in peace.

March 2006: Benefit Spaghetti Dinner

Glendale Hose Company No. 1 is holding a spaghetti dinner to benefit Justin McGowan, son of Glendale Firefighter Buzz McGowan, who recently lost his hand in an automobile collision in West Virginia. The dinner will be held at the Community Room in the Scott Township Park Lodge on April 1, 2006 from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Admission is $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children 12 years of age and under. Tickets will be available at the door. For directions or more information, or to place take-out orders, call Glendale Hose Company No. 1 at 412-260-6739 or 412-216-6605, or send an e-mail to webmaster@glendale257.com. Support our fellow Scott Township firefighters.

February 2006: Night at the Races at Bower Hill VFD

East Carnegie Volunteer Fire Department is holding a "Night at the Races" fundraiser at Bower Hill on March 18, 2006. Doors open at 6:00 pm, with the first race at 7:30 pm. Admission is open to those 21 years of age and over. Tickets are $20.00 for admission and a horse, or $15.00 for admission only. For advance tickets, visit East Carnegie VFD at 305 Duncan Way, any Wednesday night between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm. For more information, call East Carnegie VFD at 412-276-7050. Support our fellow Scott Township firefighters.

January 2006: Condolences to Our Neighbors at Glendale Hose Co. 

Bower Hill Volunteer Fire Department extends its condolences to our brothers and sisters of Glendale Hose Company No. 1 on the deaths of Georgetta Salerno and Linda Spratt. Georgetta Salerno, who died December 29, 2005, was wife of Glendale life member Tom Salerno, Sr, mother of Glendale fire chief Tom Salerno, Jr and Glendale members Frank Salerno Sr and Joe Salerno, and grandmother of Glendale members Frank Salerno Jr, T.J. Salerno, Melissa Salerno and Tammy Kilsavage.  Linda Spratt, who died December 31, 2005, was wife of Glendale member Jim Spratt and mother of Glendale members Andrew Spratt and Michael Spratt. May they rest in peace.

2005 News

2004 News

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