As he has done for more than three decades, Ted Pedas delivered his 34th annual check Monday to the Farrell Area School Board.

This year -- as in every other year -- Pedas' contribution of $20,480 will go toward enhancing the district's programs, activities, buildings and the Farrell and Wheatland communities.

Before presenting his check, Pedas made several observations about the last year.

Pedas, who normally spends his summers traveling the world, said he decided to spend this summer at home in Farrell. He said he was happy to see the wonderful news coverage about local communities, but was unhappy to read about the downward spiral of community organizations.

"There are 17 organizations ready to fold because there's no community spirit," he said.

Pedas said he would like to see more emphasis on volunteerism. His volunteer of the year award, which is open to students, parents and community members, is one he said he would like to enhance.

Pedas said he would be willing to buy T-shirts that say "I am a Farrell volunteer," to jumpstart a community volunteer day. Volunteerism could start at the high school, which is more than 30 years old and in need of minor repairs.

Another change Pedas is hoping to see is on the school's Web site. He said he'll continue to pay for the Web sites containing information on Farrell alumni and Farrell's history. The school district site, however, is temporary and will be replaced with one produced and built by students, something that should be an integral part of the computer class curriculum that involves student participation, he said.

Pedas was hired by the district in 1969, but retired two years ago to ease the district's financial woes. He is director emeritus of the school planetarium, which is named for him. This year's contribution brings his total donations to the district to $414,473. He makes the annual donations, he said, as a small token of appreciation to the district "which has provided an education for my brothers and sister and me, enabling us, as children of immigrant parents, to make our way in the world."

"Each of us in our own way owes a debt of gratitude to our school, community and those dedicated individuals who paved the road for us," Pedas said.

Each school board member thanked Pedas for his unselfish genorosity after Superintendent Richard Rubano and board President Lester Robinson presented him with a certificate of recognition.

"We always appreciate what you do for Farrell High School and the community. No matter what success you've achieved, you've never forgotten where you come from," Robinson said.

"You'll see me again for the 35th time next year unless you tire of me," Pedas told them.