Pasta Shoppe manager objects to peddling fine

By EMILY BENNETT DILULLO

ebennett@yourmvi.com

The new manager for the Pasta Shoppe in Monessen received a peddling and soliciting fine from the city for barbecuing outside the restaurant last weekend.

Pasta Shoppe manager Russel Johnson attended Thursday night’s council meeting to ask for consideration so the restaurant can stay afloat during its transition period. 

The business has endured months-long turmoil after a sewage break that caused it to shutter its doors in October. 

Co-owner Bernie Fertall told council that upwards of 8 inches of water had flooded the basement. Johnson later told the Mon Valley Independent that all proper repairs had been made and an entirely new plumbing system has been installed. 

Johnson plans to take the 22-year-old business in a new, more streamlined direction when it fully reopens. That includes remodeling efforts, new hours of operation and an updated menu. 

Johnson told council he was smoking turkeys and hams for customers in his professional grade outdoor barbecue pit last Saturday when he received a $50 fine for soliciting and peddling. 

To read the rest of this story, please see a copy of Saturday’s Mon Valley Independent, call 724-314-0035 to subscribe or subscribe to our online edition at https://e.monvalleyindependent.com.