Saturday was an exciting day for the VIP (Verona In Progress) clean-up group headed by Luke and Kathy Mattocks.

Through the efforts of Boris Weinstein and “Citizens Against Litter” 41 students from PITT and two advisers came to Verona for their PMADD (Pitt Make a Difference Day) to help with our fall clean-up. The students were divided into five zones/groups headed by: Don Worf, Mike Forebeck, Rhoda Gemmellas-Worf, Luke Mattocks, LeaAnn Grill, and Amy Forebeck, with Kathy Mattocks acting as delivery person as she drove around delivering spare bags, etc.

The groups no sooner went out and lickity-split the borough was sparkling and we had 80 trash bags full of litter.

Soon after they arrived back at the municipal building than Sal Sunseri sent over 12 pizzas of all varieties (special thanks to Sal, Verona Chamber of Commerce and Kier Ewing, Denise Gemmellas, and Mayor Dave Ricupero). Giant Eagle supplied added a “gynormous” cookie tray that was beautiful to look at as well as eat. Other additions were a veggie tray and brownies and water to wash it all down.

One comment from all the groups leaders was how polite and considerate the students were. They were a joy to have helping Verona in many ways.

Hopefully all community members (home owners and renters) will conscientiously work together to keep Verona clean."