Charleroi officials asks those attending July 4th fireworks to social distance

By TAYLOR BROWN
tbrown@yourmvi.com

With a new order signed Wednesday by Gov. Tom Wolf requiring residents to wear masks while in public spaces, anyone who attends the fireworks display in Charleroi is asked to follow state guidelines.
After a split vote to cancel the display last month, council revisited the issue — and changed their minds — at a special meeting last week to move ahead with the event 9:30 p.m. Saturday at Charleroi Community Park.
On Wednesday, Councilman Frank Paterra, who cast the lone no vote to cancel, said he stands by his vote.
“I am concerned with that,” Paterra said. “Now we have mandatory masks everywhere we go and we are going to have this big fireworks display. Are we going to have police monitor people wearing masks?”
Paterra said he believes money budgeted for fireworks, $5,000, could be better spent elsewhere and he does not want to feel responsible for a COVID-19 outbreak in Charleroi after the event.
“You do a good thing and we could have a second round of the pandemic break out,” he said.
Solicitor Steve Toprani said, according to the new order, masks do not have to be worn outside when social distancing is followed. Wolf’s order states face masks are required if people are “outdoors and unable to consistently maintain a distance of 6 feet from individuals who are not members of their households.”
Council President Mark Alterici said it is simple — be smart and social distance. “I will stress it again and again, social distance, social distance, social distance,” Alterici said. “We are doing fireworks and we are doing it because the community requested it. But, the community needs to do their part, be smart and maintain social distancing.”
Alterici said the fire department will help and fundraise during the event.
“You’re getting a nice show, so if you can, take a few bucks out of your pocket to help them so they can help you,” Alterici said. “And, please, social distance.
“If people wouldn’t be so afraid to wear masks, we might not be where we are today, but that’s just my opinion.”
Paterra said residents have the right to choose to wear, or to not wear, a mask.
“The president of the United States does not wear one,” Paterra said. “I believe we have the right to make this decision for ourselves.
“The borough should send a letter to the president.”
Alterici said despite their difference of opinion, there are “more important” things to worry about.
“I am not worried about the President of the United States. I am worried about the residents of Charleroi.”
Residents who plan to watch fireworks in the Magic City must practice social distancing and remain in their cars or at sit next to their cars.
Children cannot be unattended.
The fireworks display will be provided by Monessen’s B&D Fireworks.

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