First Save Our Swissvale Meeting Considered a Success

GMK Dance Studio in Swissvale was packed Wednesday night with residents wanting to make a positive change in the community.

More than 70 residents—as well as police, fire, code enforcement and government officials—attended the first Save Our Swissvale meeting. The organization—also known as SOS—is a community action organization aimed at promoting civic awareness, as well as combating the numerous social ills and crime that have befallen the borough.

Benjamin Stahl, founder of Save Our Swissvale, was happy to have a "fantastic" turnout. 

Stahl introduced the community to the organization's mission and outlined some short-term and long-term goals—among them are beautifying efforts, a neighborhood crime watch, a Swissvale Civic Association and the building of a new community center.

"We want to reinvent Swissvale into something we're proud of," he said. "Together is how we're going to make that change."

Many residents cited absentee landlords, vacant properties, criminal activity, and lack of community as problems plaguing the borough.

Clyde Wilhelm, borough fire chief and code enforcement officer, urged residents to contact the code enforcement office with any complaints about properties that are in disrepair.

"It helps us do what we need to do," he said.

Police Lt. Matt Liscovich also urged residents to call the police if they notice criminal or suspicious activity in their areas. Residents also can sign up for alerts from the police department on Nixle.

Gina Kristofik, owner of GMK, said businesses in the area need to support each other's services.

Mayor Deneen Swartzwelder asked residents to participate in National Night Out, a national effort "to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back." 

She encouraged residents to have block parties and cookouts with their neighbors on Aug. 6.

"Know your neighbors," she said. "That's the best advice I can give."

Upcoming SOS Events

• The organization's first fundraiser will be held on Saturday, Aug. 3, at 4 p.m. at Pub in the Park Inc., 7034 Blackhawk St. Show your support for the cause and help raise startup capital for Save Our Swissvale. There will be raffles, basket auctions, food, "famous Swissvalians" guest bar tending and music.
• The first clean up day will be held on Saturday, Aug. 17, and will continue once a month.
• The next Save Our Swissvale meeting will be on Wednesday, Aug. 21.