Some of the issues on the radar screen for the Pa. State Mayors' Association includes radar, literally, as well as open primaries.

Jim Nowalk, president of the Association and Mayor of Whitehall Borough, Allegheny County, spoke to the assembled mayors at their annual meeting, held July 16-19 at Hotel Bethlehem.

"It's something we need to explore," Nowalk said regarding open primaries.

Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donchez greeted the group and told them in a letter, "I extend sincere congratulations and welcome on the occasion of the 44th anniversary of the Pennsylvania Mayors' Association Conference." He added, "I hope you will enjoy all of Bethlehem's shops and restaurants during your stay, as well as the camaraderie of your fellow mayors."

The mayors spent the weekend discussing various topics that they all face, from the mayor of the largest city to the smallest borough.

Governor Tom Wolf also stopped by the meeting, speaking to the mayors about the state budget currently in the works.

Mayors had the opportunity to attend sessions on emergency management, marketing, funding and other issues. Nowalk told the group, "I am very committed to making sure that when you get back to your boroughs, you have the tools you need."

But once the business was complete, it was time for some lighthearted moments. Al Chelik, mayor of Mayfield, commented after the dinner, "I used to be a beef eater but I got a bum steer."

Chelik told his fellow mayors that they must be not only the chief communicator for their municipalities, but "comedian in chief" as well. To show what he meant, Chelik produced a harmonica, playing America the Beautiful, My Country 'Tis of Thee, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Amazing Grace, Home on the Range and other tunes. Whatever resources and talents you have, he explained, use them for the public benefit.

Keith Moss, mayor of Duryea, told the group how this year's mayor of year was chosen through an application process and reviewed by six committee members.

This year's Mayor of the Year award was presented to Robert J. Brooks, Mayor of Murrysville in Westmoreland County.

Brooks told the group, "I am surprised." His motivation is very simple, he said. "I love being a mayor. I love helping people. I couldn't do it without my wife." Brooks was honored for his devotion to volunteerism, community sports, parks and the local library. Also, Brooks led the Murrysville community to unite after the tragedy on April 9, 2014, at Franklin Regional HS.

The Pa. State Mayors' Association was founded in 1971 by five mayors who promoted an organization to education, represent and advocate for all mayors.