Answering the call for animals: A humane officer’s day on the road
Readers name Washington Auto Mall best overall business in Washington County
Popcorn Willy’s under new ownership
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026
LIVING IN WASHINGTON COUNTY
CONTENTS
6
14
Popcorn Willy’s under new ownership
8
Answering the call for animals: A humane officer’s day on the road
20 How CanonMac’s “Zoo in the Classroom” brings science to life
FROM THE EDITOR
20 Wilson Reading founders visit Wylandville to celebrate literacy success
10
Readers name Washington Auto Mall best overall business in Washington County
21 Cozy up to your next read at Frank Sarris Public Library
CHOOSING JOY IN 2026
Melissa Six recognized for her service-driven life On the cover
For about three years now, I’ve selected a word for the year and take a look at the word from the previous year to see if I embodied it throughout the last year. Last year’s word was momentum, but joy was on the shortlist. Joy is the winner this year. I want to choose my joy and prioritize it. Sometimes I am more focused on other people’s happiness instead of what brings me delight. So here’s to a year of looking in each corner for a pocket of joy
Now, those who know me are well aware of my upbeat, silly, uplifting personality. Friends have compared me to sunshine, butterflies and fairies. I’m one of those people who tries to leave everyone I meet feeling a little better. But again, my focus tends to be on ensuring everyone around me is doing well, rather than turning that deserved attention to myself. I want to challenge myself to joy, but not necessarily comfort. I want to push myself to do hard things that might also spark wonder. Difficulty is not the enemy of pleasure, and the two can live in harmony, I think. Wishing you and those you love a year filled with joy in 2026 and beyond. I hope you can find time for the things that truly light you up.
Are you someone who sets resolutions or chooses a word to guide the year ahead? If so, I’d love to hear it. Let’s encourage one another with love and kindness. Reach out to me with your thoughts or story suggestions at 724-222-2200 ext. 2421 or tthurston@observer-reporter.com.
Take care, stay safe and here’s to a joyful 2026.
Editor
Photo by Katherine Mansfield As a small-business owner, Melissa Six, a McGuffey grad who has spent
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Best of the Best Person of the Year
Melissa Six recognized for her service-driven life
Accolades
aren’t something Melissa Six eagerly lists, though she could easily tick off an impressive resume: Army veteran, founder and CEO of a thriving company, mother and wife, nonprofit creator, volunteer, etc.
In fact, during an interview for this profile, we scarcely discussed the reason for our lovely conversation over a peppermint latte (for me) and tea (for her). In November, Six was named the Observer-Reporter’s Person of the Year.
“I don’t think there’s anything that I do that’s Person of the Year worthy, per se,” said Six, hands cupping the large, black teacup across the table from me. “But I’m honored to be in my hometown and to be thought of that way. And I’m so grateful for the people who even took the time to vote.”
In July of last year, nominations opened for the O-R’s annual Best of the Best contest, including the Person of the Year category. Anastasia Barr Whiteman, who owns Pretzels Plus in downtown Washington, took to social media to sing Six’s praises.
“She is a servant leader,” Barr Whiteman wrote on Instagram. “...[S]he gives without expecting a return.”
Janelle Hancher, too, was eager to share on social media her reasons for nominating Six, which included a sweet line: “Her compassion isn’t just part of her business name, it’s the way she lives every single day.”
Six exudes calm, quiet strength. When I met her inside Kouzina along Washington’s Main Street (Six is a huge proponent of supporting local businesses), she was running uncharacteristically late. Poised and sharp in a smart black suit, she thanked me for my patience, courteously turned her phone to silent and asked if I wanted a coffee.
We took seats near the grand piano that separates Kouzina from the George Washington Hotel lobby and fell easily into pleasant conversation. Six has a beautiful way of wanting to talk about things other than herself, and I kept reminding myself I was there to learn something about her, instead of learning all sorts of fascinating things about the medical profession, or how Washington — where she has lived most of her life — has changed from the bustling small-city whose storefronts were filled with elegant dresses to the bones of a town and back, again.
Six is a third-generation Army veteran. Her paternal grandfather served as a medic in World War II, while her maternal grandfather was in artillery, and her father, Daniel, was wounded in Vietnam.
“My dad never really talked about his service experience,” Six said, “but we’ve always been so proud of his service.”
Six’s mother, Wanda, instilled in her daughter great compassion and resolve. From a young age, Six was sure of two things: She wanted to join the Army like her father and grandfathers, and she wanted to help people.
Melissa Six was wounded during her Army service, founded Compassionate Care Unlimited, volunteers with local nonprofits, but she doesn’t attach herself to any label.
Photos and story by Katherine Mansfield
She did those things, just in reverse order. When recruiters visited McGuffey High School, her alma mater, Six signed up for a visit. Her mother “basically kicked them out of our home,” she laughed.
So she went into nursing.
“My mom and my grandmother, my dad’s mother, was a nurse. My dad had a lot of health issues as a result of his service in Vietnam. I grew up a little bit in the VA hospitals,” said Six, who observed some doctors and nurses were really caring, while others seemed to lack compassion, or came across as cold. “I didn’t like that. I thought, I’ll choose this career path. I will make a deal with myself that if I ever lose the passion for it, then I either have to go into a different area or go into a different profession, because I never want to be a person who doesn’t have that care and the compassion to deliver what patients deserve, which is care, and someone who cares about their care.”
After high school, Six found herself working as a licensed practical nurse while attending Wheeling Jesuit. The workload was grueling, but she was determined to further her education while making an impact.
“I thought, is there a better way? Is there someplace where I can meet all of these demands in my life?”
At age 22, she enlisted in the United States Army.
“Which is old,” Six said, tilting her head thoughtfully.
“I shouldn’t say that’s old. It’s not old, but for enlisting. There were people who were … 16, 17, probably with ROTC … doing their basic training before they would graduate from high school. And they would actually call me the grandma of the platoon,” she laughed.
Military experience wasn’t what Six had anticipated. Instead of working in a brick-and-mortar hospital, Six and her unit, the 86th Combat Support, were tasked with setting up hospitals in remote areas, like the characters in M.A.S.H., only the work was less glamorous in real life (she called home to complain that she was “playing war” instead of fighting in one, and her father told her, “‘I want you to be grateful that you’re training. That you’re not in conflict.’”)
She heeded her father’s advice and set her mind to making the most of her service, which did, afterall, include action; Six was injured when a blast struck her hospital.
“I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world,” Six said.
Following her time in the Army, Six, who was stationed at Fort Campbell in Kentucky and Tennessee, began her nursing career in southern hospitals. One day, a sergeant she’d served with shared that he worked for an agency, something Six, at the time, had no interest in. The bouncing around from facility to facility didn’t appeal to her, and Six’s experience with agency nurses left her dissatisfied with the level of care. But the sergeant encouraged her, gave her the contact info for a few agencies and half-joked that if she needed a pay raise, she should call them.
“That was literally what made an agency nurse out of me,” Six smiled. “I tried it, loved it. It was a great experience.”
When she moved home to care for her uncle, who was diagnosed with cancer, Six sought the same southern hospitality agency nursing experience. The northern agencies were, like the weather, colder.
“At one point, I was signed up with about eight different agencies in this area. I said, well, if I can’t find it, I’m going to build it.”
It was risky; Six had never owned a business. Friends and family kindly tried to dissuade her from opening a company, but Six knew the leadership and other skills she’d acquired through her Army service, coupled with her nursing experience, were enough to give her a legitimate shot at opening a healthcare liaison company. In the early aughts, she officially launched Compassionate Care Unlimited, which offers nurses scheduling that fits their lifestyles through connection to quality-care facilities, and partners with care facilities to staff them with quality nurses.
“Sometimes the medical profession prefers that you’re a nurse 24 hours a day, that you’re not a mom, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a wife. Nurses are not robots. They can be in one room and perform CPR, and then be in the next room celebrating that somebody’s hip surgery was successful and they’re getting to go home. And that can happen in the snap of a finger. On top of it, it’s like, you’re navigating life. We pride ourselves on doing life with these nurses. We are coming alongside them and make sure that they’re equipped for success in a very broken, difficult medical system.”
For more than 20 years, Six has served as Compassionate Care’s CEO, but she still finds time to work periodically in the nursing field (“I am intentional about getting bedside because I need to know what nurses are facing and what the current state is, so I can best lead other people through that,” she said), champion local business-
es and people through volunteer work, as well as help found For Our Vets Washington, a nonprofit launched in April of last year that focuses on connecting our county’s veterans to services and one another. The organization’s first project: lining Washington Main Street with veterans’ flags. That project should be completed by spring, Six said.
She credits local veteran Brady Brooks, Kelly Jones and Barr Whiteman, whose husband served, as the inspiration for and driving forces behind For Our Vets, and said the group is also working to connect our area’s large population of veterans to the plethora of wonderful, albeit siloed, resources and one another.
As Six poured out her passion for this latest venture, I marveled at her endless energy and ability to make things happen. When my six-month-old daughter, a journalist-in-training, stirred, I shifted in my seat, took another sip of my latte, and wondered how Six balances work, volunteerism and motherhood (she and her husband, Todd, have a 14-year-old son).
“He’s helped teach me balance, because my heart is so in it that if I didn’t have people around me who will put me in check, I probably would be one of those people that worked nonstop,” said Six.
After a sip of her tea, she recalled a dinner from years ago. Her son, Ty, was little, and the family was sitting down to dinner.
“He said, ‘Can we talk about anything other than Compassionate Care today?’ Five years old, saying that,” Six said with a rueful smile. “When something’s your passion, and you love it, you don’t feel like it’s work, but you do have to be mindful of your loved ones and the people around you, and accept those boundaries.”
Boundary-setting isn’t, for Six, formulaic. Instead, she emphasizes quality time over the amount of time spent with family and friends.
“We say balance, but then that makes it sound like you’re slicing up a pie, you’re slicing up the clock. I think it’s more harmony, because sometimes you’re going to get less sleep and you’re going to spend more time working, and then other times it’s like, I’m going to spend more time with my family. It’s something that’s probably always changing, but making sure that you feel like you have harmony in what you’re doing.”
Harmony keeps people humble, I thought, leaning into Six’s philosophy for life. I want to ask why she doesn’t label herself as “CEO,” or “nurse” or “Person of the Year?”
Then, I realize it’s something more: her faith in God. His purpose is greater than any of her best-laid plans as a woman, as a human being, and from Him she draws the strength to calmly and joyfully connect people.
That faith, she said, is her inheritance.
“My dad had probably the strongest faith of anyone that I’ve ever met,” said Six.
She didn’t grow up in a church, but she always believed in God, watching the way her father ministered quietly to those in need.
“I can remember being a child, and he would give his last five dollars to a stranger. He would pick up strangers. It would be cold like it is outside now. You never had any idea who you were waking up to, who might be on the couch, because he would bring somebody home,” Six laughed. “He just had such a heart.”
Her father passed in November. He lived long enough to witness his daughter take that faith inheritance and run with it.
In 2019, Six was invited to attend a service at Champion Christian Center.
“I went and right away, I don’t know what it was — you know, definitely faith got me there — and just right away, I knew, I’m coming back here,” Six said. “Every Sunday since, if I’m in town, I’m attending service. I’ve met so many people through faith there that it’s changed my life.”
When our time together ended, I watched Six take long, easy strides out of Kouzina and thought how much I did not learn about the woman who, as a little girl, learned to ice skate on her grandparents’ pond and now enjoys skiing, who loves fishing with her brother, who bonds with her mother during pedicures. I didn’t find out her favorite way to spend a rainy Saturday. Her most memorable vacation. For a moment, panic-stricken, I wonder how I’ll ever pen a profile worthy of a woman who makes such an impact by showing up for the people and causes nearest her heart.
And then it hits me: Melissa Six isn’t someone who can be defined by a label or captured in an article. She is a woman of faith, the sum of her big heart, commitment to family, friends and people, and her good works.
Answering the call for animals: A humane officer’s day on the road
By Trista Thurston G
retchen Grasser, the humane officer for the Washington Area Humane Society, has an office at the Eighty Four-based facility, but her true office is her truck, on the road.
On a recent ride-along with Grasser, our day began at court, for a preliminary hearing at District Magistrate Michael Manfredi’s office. The case Grasser was in attendance for had to be continued, as the defendant did not appear.
After court, it’s a quick stop at the Humane Society to check messages and grab some supplies. Then, it’s back to the mobile office to check in on today’s calls.
“I basically live out of my truck,” Grasser said.
As a law enforcement agent, Grasser doesn’t handle the cases that a traditional police officer may see, but there is a correlation. Many of her cases involve people with an active or prior criminal record. Grasser’s purview, as a humane officer, is incidents of abuse, neglect and abandonment, as outlined by state law. She’s part of a network of agents
throughout her career, starting as a vet tech for 23 years and becoming a humane officer three years ago. She saw many of the same issues as a vet tech as she does now in her current role, and she feels a great sense of purpose with her work.
“Not only do I see things, but I can do something about it,” she said. Humane officers in Pennsylvania are employed by a registered nonprofit, which is solely responsible for the equipment, salaries and other employment needs.
“It can get tough sometimes,” Grasser said. “Everyone gets a chance with me.”
She explained that the public may not understand that in her job, not every case can have an immediate resolution. Search warrants, for example, take time to receive and execute. Removals can move at the speed of the courts. Large-scale cases involving many animals often require assistance from other organizations, with planning, time and scheduling required.
“You want to save the world. Sometimes, that’s not feasible, either.”
Readers name Washington Auto Mall best overall business in Washington County
By Haven Stetor
Photos courtesy of the Washington Auto Mall
The community has spoken, and the best overall business in Washington County, as recognized by the 2025 Best of the Best Awards, goes to the Washington Auto Mall. This recognition, chosen by local voters, highlights a business that has built its reputation on trust and commitment to the people it serves.
“Being named best overall business in Washington County is incredibly meaningful to all of us at the Washington Auto Mall because it reflects the trust and support of the very community we serve every day,” said Jennifer
Trapuzzano, marketing director and community relations manager. “This award isn’t just about sales or growth. It’s about people. For our employees, it reinforces that what they do matters.”
That people-first mentality is reflected in all areas of the business. According to Sara Hall, the human resources manager for the Washington Auto Mall, their focus on transparency and relationships is what sets them apart across the county.
“We genuinely strive to be more than a car dealership,” Hall stated. “From the moment someone walks through our doors, we focus on respect, honesty and building long-term relationships
rather than transactions.”
A key piece to that approach is Driven by Hope, the dealership’s philanthropic initiative. It was also recognized at the Best of the Best Awards, where it was named the best philanthropic business.
“Driven by Hope allows us to give back directly to organizations in our community,” Hall said. “People see that our business is rooted in compassion and community involvement, especially during challenging times.”
Daily operations at the Washington Auto Mall have been centered around the people since its doors opened.
“Our culture has always been built
on teamwork, accountability and heart,” Hall noted. “Our mission isn’t just to sell cars. It’s to create long-term relationships and take care of our community.”
For Trapuzzano, the recognition the award brings serves as motivation for future growth.
“We don’t see this as a finish line,” she said. “We see it as encouragement to keep growing, improving and finding new ways to support our customers and our team. It also gives us more confidence to expand programs like Driven by Hope.”
The Washington Auto Mall has been locally owned and family-operated since the late 1960s, remaining
a staple as the county continues to grow and evolve.
What began as a small local dealership has now become a trusted destination for car buyers across the region, representing Washington Honda, Washington Hyundai and South Hills Toyota.
“Generations of families have trusted us with their vehicles, and that history is something we take a lot of pride in,” Trapuzzano said.
The dealership thanks those that it serves every day for its success.
“From loyal customers who return year after year to local organizations that partner with us, Washington County has shaped who we are,” Hall said.
Looking ahead, the awards reinforce the dealership’s goals.
“This award reminds us that when you lead with integrity and heart, success follows,” Trapuzzano stated.
Trapuzzano also expressed her gratitude to those who voted for the business, stat-
ing, “This award belongs just as much to our customers and community members as it does to our team. Your trust inspires us every day, and we are honored to continue serving you. We don’t take your vote lightly, and we are committed to earning it again and again.”
work, play • mon valley
Where Projects Begin: Home Warehouse’s Role in the Mon Valley
By: Haven Stetor
For decades, Home Warehouse has helped homeowners and contractors throughout the Mon Valley bring their visions to life. From DIY projects to professional remodels, the business has seen it all. While the building and supply industry has changed over the years, the mission of knowledgeable service, trusted relationships and strong community presence has remained.
Home Warehouse carries a wide range of interior and exterior building products, including siding, windows, doors, roofing materials, kitchens, flooring, countertops and hardware. The store is dedicated to helping all customers, whether they are just starting out or are adding the finishing touches to their project. Staff members are there for guidance and support every step of the way, taking time to answer questions and present all options to the client.
“We really go out of our way to take care of customers,” said Donna Tomasko, who has spent more than 40 years in the building supply industry. “Our staff is knowledgeable, and we help people figure out what they need so their projects go smoothly.”
Home Warehouse’s history goes back to 1979, when Tomasko became involved in a building supply business in Uniontown. After decades of industry experience, the Charleroi location opened in the early 1990s, which gave easier access to building materials for contractors in surrounding areas.
“There wasn’t much in this area at the time when it came to building supplies,” Tomasko said. “We saw an opportunity to serve the community.”
The business has remained family owned and operated, with Tomasko’s sons growing up in the industry and continuing the work today. Dave Tomasko is now the store manager and oversees operations at the Charleroi location.
This family involvement has shaped how the store does business today. While larger retailers focus on volume, Home Warehouse prioritizes a customized service for everyone who walks through the door. The employees understand that no
two projects are the same, so taking the time to understand the customer’s needs is key to building that relationship.
“We’re more hands-on,” Dave Tomasko said. “Contractors bring in measurements, and we help them estimate materials as accurately as possible. A lot of places don’t do that anymore.”
Roughly 70 percent of the store’s customers are contractors and remodelers, with the rest made up of homeowners working on their own projects. Many contractors recommend Home Warehouse directly to their clients, sending them to browse the store and make selections.
“We’ve built relationships over the years,” Dave said. “A lot of our contractors feel like friends.”
As those clients continued to return over the years, the Home Warehouse staff paid attention to their needs and slowly began integrating more products into their store. Originally, they focused on exterior building projects, but the store slowly expanded into kitchens, flooring, countertops and vanities. When a local hardware store closed, Home Warehouse even began carrying hardware items to make it more convenient for others in the area.
“It was really about convenience and helping the community,” Dave said. “People didn’t want to travel far for basic hardware.”
The Charleroi location also features an upstairs kitchen showroom, offering design options that customers may not realize are a possibility. The goal is to make Home Warehouse a one-stopshop for all things home.
While there are no immediate changes coming to the business, the Home Warehouse team is always thinking about what the community may need next. New product lines and expanded offerings are always being explored as the industry evolves.
“We’re always looking for new products and ways to better serve our customers,” Dave said. “That’s always the focus.”
For Home Warehouse, success is measured by long-term relationships and client satisfaction, not just materials sold. After decades in the business, the store remains a trusted partner for those taking on renovation projects, no matter how big or small.
Popcorn Willy’s under new ownership
By Michele Gillis
AAlthough Popcorn Willy’s has been making life pop since 1991, the new owners have decided to add a crumble to their business, specifically a cookie crumble.
New owners Abby Klaus and her fiancé Evan Crompton took over Popcorn Willy’s at the end of 2025. Klaus runs the store day to day, while Crompton handles ordering and finances.
Klaus said there was no need for renovations when they took over, as the business had closed for a bit of renovation earlier in 2025.
Though they have added quite a bit to the menu, the feel of the business has stayed the same.
“When you walk in here, you get a little nostalgic feeling,” said Klaus. “There are a lot of vintage pieces that kind of just go with the aesthetic. The only thing that we’re really changing is we’re going to put a Cookie Crumbs sticker on the door to kind of represent that that business is also a part of Popcorn Willy’s.”
So, where did Cookie Crumbs Bakery come from?
Klaus and Crompton owned Cookie Crumbs Bakery, which they ran out of their kitchen. Their business was doing so well that they were outgrowing that space and were looking for a larger space. Crompton had experience as a kitchen manager and a dream of owning and operating his own restaurant.
“When this opportunity kind of presented itself, it worked out great for both of us,” said Klaus. “I have the experience baking, and he knows the ins and outs of managing, financials, inventory and all of that. We both had the skills and knowledge necessary to continue things here.”
Klaus said the fact that the business had been there since 1991 really pulled on their heartstrings.
In addition to that nugget, Crompton’s first apartment was actually located above Popcorn Willy’s, so he actually knew the original owners.
“Linda, the previous owner was my landlord for my first apartment,” said Crompton. “I used to come down here to pay my rent all the time. I didn’t think any of it at the time.”
His family grew up with one of the owners, Bill and Linda Wolfe’s daughter, Cherie.
Cherie and Mark Buxton and their daughter Talyn were also co-owners at one point. In December, the previous owners were ready for retirement, so the timing was perfect.
“So, it was a little sentimental and also like
something we were looking for to begin with,” said Klaus. “It’s like a coming full circle thing. It’s kind of cool.”
The website touts 80 flavors of popcorn, but you won’t find all 80 in the shop.
“They slowly and gradually kept expanding their popcorn menu,” said Klaus. “We don’t keep the shelves stocked with all 80 flavors, but you can go online to order them. We try to keep all the classics that sell best on the shelves, and then we have a couple of wholesalers that order monthly, weekly and things of that nature. But we can make 80 different flavors.”
Popcorn Willy’s is also now offering around 30 different cookie flavors. Klaus said the cookie flavors change with the season, so they’re updated often.
“I’ve been a customer since Abby started the Cookie Crumbs business,” said Bill Jackson. “I think the new owners are passionate people who will bring some sweet changes to a local business that can help revitalize it.”
Jackson said adding more complex desserts, like mousse cups, and enhancing savory popcorn with sweet elements, like chocolate drizzles, make for a delicious snack.
“I would wholeheartedly recommend this business to anyone, from customer service to quality and taste, they are top of the line in all regards,” said Jackson. “My personal favorite is the s’mores cookie.”
Popular flavors of popcorn on the menu include chocolate, chocolate nut, south of the border, hot n’ spicy, candy coated, berry delight and more.
Popular cookie flavors include chocolate chip, strawberry pretzel, caramel chocolate chip, peanut butter crunch, peanut butter blossom, sugar, snickerdoodle, peanut butter and more.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Crompton said they are now offering mousse cups, layers with crushed cookies, chocolate-covered strawberries, pretzels and chocolate-covered Oreos.
Klaus and Crompton expected business to slow
down after Christmas, but it didn’t. Since they added the cookies to the menu, foot traffic has really increased, and their social media presence has doubled.
“Christmas was crazy for us,” said Klaus. “We had no idea what to expect. There were days that our shelves were just empty at the end of the day, and we had to stay late restocking.”
A neat service that Popcorn Willy’s offers is wholesale and retail specialty orders for events such as fundraisers, wedding showers, gifts and more.
“We do popcorn tastings so a bride and groom can come in and try things to know what they want to put out on their table to serve at their wedding,” said Klaus. “Then that cost gets applied towards their purchase if they choose us for their wedding.”
Moving forward, Popcorn Willy’s wants to add brownies, muffins and breads to the menu. In addition, they would also like to add grab-andgo treats and a breakfast and brunch menu.
Though they haven’t been open very long, Klaus said their family and the community have been very welcoming.
“Our family has been in here to help us, too, because they know there’s a lot that has been put on our plate and obviously, we’re ready for the challenge,” said Klaus. “But having our family in here helping has been really nice just to bond and to see how much people support us has been very heartwarming.”
Spencer Dietrich has been a customer of Popcorn Willy’s for as long as he can remember.
“I think the new ownership is a breath of fresh air and an ability to expand the business,” said Dietrich. “Abby and team have been wonderful so far. I have always been a huge fan of the chocolate drizzle popcorn. I would one hundred percent recommend the shop. I have been in more than a handful of times in the past few weeks. Everything Abby makes is absolutely delicious.”
For more information, visit their website popcornwilly.com.
Popcorn Willy’s is located at 20 N. Main Street in Washington. Hours are Wednesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Tuesday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., closed on Sunday and Monday.
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DIGESTIVE HEALTH
Jungmin L. Lee, M.D.
If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms, EGD could be the key to uncovering the cause and finding relief.
Imagine you’ve been struggling with heartburn or discomfort in the stomach, and despite trying different remedies, the symptoms just won’t go away. This is where Upper Endoscopy (EGD) can help. EGD is a medical procedure that lets doctors examine your upper digestive system— the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. With the help of a thin, flexible tube with a camera, inserted gently through your mouth while you’re under sedation, doctors can get a close look to find out what might be causing your symptoms.
Acid Reflux and the Role of EGD
For many people, the story starts with acid reflux—when stomach acid escapes into the esophagus, leading to heartburn. Some may also experience symptoms like a cough, a feeling of a lump in the throat, or even hoarseness. While acid reflux is common, untreated, it can lead to serious conditions like esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer. If acid reflux persists or new symptoms arise, your doctor may recommend an EGD to determine if these more severe conditions are present and ensure you get the right treatment.
Swallowing Difficulty and EGD for Diagnosis
Imagine sitting down to a meal and suddenly feeling like food won’t go down smoothly. This is a common experience for those with difficulty swallowing, a symptom that may be caused by esophageal narrowing, motility (peristalsis) issues, or something more serious like cancer. EGD allows doctors to directly see what’s happening inside the esophagus, identifying blockages, inflammation, or growths early, which is crucial for proper treatment and avoiding serious complications.
Abdominal Pain, Indigestion, and the Importance of EGD
Now consider a different scenario: you’ve been dealing with indigestion—nausea, bloating, or stomach pain that seems to linger. While indigestion often stems from benign causes like diet or stress, sometimes it’s a sign of more serious conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or even stomach cancer. EGD helps doctors rule out these more severe issues, ensuring that any potential problems are caught early and treated effectively.
If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms, EGD could be the key to uncovering the cause and finding relief. Talk to your doctor, call 412-232-8104, or visit https://www.pghgastro.com/ to schedule an appointment at Spartan Health Surgicenter with the specialists from Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates
Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates: 2589 Boyce Plaza Road, Suite 5 Pittsburgh PA 15241 • 412-232-8104 office
Spartan Health Building 100 Stoops Drive, Suite 280 Monongahela PA 15063 • 412-232-8104 office
Stomach Ulcer Normal Stomach Stomach Cancer
Jungmin L. Lee,
Serving the Mon Valley since 2005, Spartan Health Surgicenter is a freestanding, Medicare certified, Joint Commission accredited, ambulatory surgery center located off of Coyle Curtain Road in Carroll Township.
Spartan strengthens the convenience of health care in the Mon Valley Community by providing greater comfort, more privacy and a relaxed environment for outpatient surgery center patients.
• Experienced physicians, nurses and anesthesiology staff
• State-of-the-art equipment and procedures
• Joint Commission Accredited
• FREE and convenient parking
• Comfortable waiting area for families
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE:
• Ophthalmology (Cataract, Glaucoma, Corneal)
• Pain Management • Gastroenterology
• Orthopaedics • General Surgery • Podiatry
Patrick Garman, M.H.A. Executive Administrator
Jamie Farmer, R.N. Director of Nursing
Vincent Ripepi, D.O. Medical Director
MEDICAL STAFF
Orthopaedic Surgery:
Derrick Fluhme, MD
Greg Habib, DO
Patrick McCullough, MD
Anthony Mustovish, DO
Ari Pressman, MD
Vince Ripepi, DO
Ophthalmology: Aaron Wang, MD
Thomas Findlan, DO
Angela Gauthier, MD
Nisha Dhawlikar Gosai, MD
Anagha Medsinge, MD
Julia Polat, MD
General Surgery: Prakorb Isariyawongse, MD
Pain Management: Anthony Cuneo, MD
Gastroenterology: Nicholas Bellicini, DO
Mark Cedar, MD
Bridger Clarke, MD
Jungmin Lee, MD
Lisa Oliva, DO
Theresa Schuerle, DO
CANONSBURG CORNER
How Canon-Mac’s “Zoo in the Classroom” brings science to life
Courtesy of the Canon-McMillan School District
Chelsea Geist’s classroom at Canon-McMillan High School is no ordinary science room. She cares for more than 100 live animals and has developed a hands-on program that inspires students and teachers throughout the district.
Geist launched Zoo in the Classroom in 2010, growing it from a pilot at Muse Elementary to a districtwide program for first through sixth graders. High school students receive training in animal care and then lead interactive, curriculum-aligned presentations in elementary classrooms. They work with a wide variety of animals, including tarantulas, scorpions, frogs, lizards, snakes and birds.
“Zoo in the Classroom gives students a close-up opportunity to experience exotic animals in a positive way,” said Geist. “It’s an amazing process to witness the excitement and curiosity it brings to both the high school and elementary students.”
Every visit is planned in collaboration with elementary teachers to ensure that the animals connect to what students are studying. This alignment reinforces classroom learning while fostering respect and appreciation for living creatures.
“My hope is that students gain new knowledge and understanding of animal behavior as well as an appreciation for exotic species,” said Geist. “It’s about helping students see the importance of caring for and understanding the world around them.”
The program helps high school students acquire confidence and communication skills as they take on teaching roles for younger students.
“I notice students who are quieter tend to take on leadership roles,” she said. “They start to favor certain animals while working with them, and it’s so rewarding to see their confidence grow.”
What began as a few presentations each year has evolved into a yearlong program that continues to expand. Geist hopes to establish Zoo in the Classroom as an official high school course and eventually collaborate with other districts to expand the program’s reach.
Geist has created an educational experience that connects science with real-world applications, inspiring students to develop a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Wilson Reading founders visit Wylandville to celebrate literacy success
Courtesy of the Canon-McMillan School District
Wylandville
Elementary welcomed Barbara and Ed Wilson, founders of the Wilson Reading System, to celebrate the district’s success in structured literacy instruction.
During a national literacy panel, Principal Shannon Balch highlighted Wylandville’s integration of Wilson’s phonics-based approach with knowledge-building practices to develop a comprehensive literacy model. Impressed by Canon-McMillan’s framework, the Wilsons expressed interest in visiting the school firsthand.
“Having the founders of the Wilson Reading Program here in our school was incredibly special,” said Balch. “Barbara and Ed have dedicated their lives to structured literacy and to helping children learn to read.”
Structured literacy is at the core of instruction at Wylandville and throughout the Canon-McMillan School District. The school’s model includes FUNdations as the core curriculum: two research-based Wilson products, along with the Wilson Reading System, Fun in Focus and FUNdations for intervention — a specialized program for students needing additional support. These programs create a multitiered framework that meets every learner where they are.
“FUNdations serves as our primary phonics instruction,” said second-grade teacher Bruce Grice. “It focuses on decoding, encoding and sight-word recognition, while Geodes provides meaningful, decodable texts that build background knowledge and tie directly to what we teach. The combination has completely transformed how our students learn to read.”
Building on more than a decade of success in kindergarten, the Wilson Reading System and FUNdations program was expanded to first and second grade as part of the district’s core curriculum. Balch explained that since then, most of the district’s reading and learning support teachers have become Wilson dyslexia practitioners.
“The beauty of structured literacy is that it starts at the very base and builds from there,” Balch said. “Students can look at a word, identify syllable types and explain why words work the way they do. That kind of knowledge builds real confidence.”
Canon-McMillan continues to see remarkable results, with 96% of fourth-grade students reading on or above grade level.
“Between the data and the joy you see in our students as they learn, it’s clear that this approach works, and having Barbara and Ed Wilson here to celebrate that was the perfect full-circle moment,” said Balch.
She said that the success of structured literacy stems from strong support across all levels of the district, including administration, the school board, reading specialists and classroom teachers who implement it seamlessly each day.
Cozy up to your next read at Frank Sarris Public Library
Parking: The entrances on Murdock Street and North Jefferson Avenue are open. The free parking lot is located behind the library building and can be accessed from Murdock Street.
Please remember:
• The regular operating hours are as follows:
• Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• The drop box for returned items is located on Murdock Street, and there is also one within the parking lot.
• Patrons can explore adult, children and young adult collections on the first floor. They can also use computers to copy, fax and scan documents. For pricing on services such as printing and faxing, please visit the website.
• Computers and study rooms operate on a first-come, firstserved basis, with each patron limited to one hour of computer use.
Check the website, franksarrislibrary. org, or Facebook page for updates on service changes or hours.
Summer Reading Camp 2026
Full-day registration for our Summer Reading Camp 2026 is now open. This year’s theme is “Unearth a Story,” and we are digging into creating an unforgettable experience. The camp sessions are as follows:
• First Week: Dinosaur Week –July 6 to 10
• Second Week: Our Earth Week –July 13 to 17
• Third Week: Archaeology Week – July 20 to 24
• Fourth Week: Paleontology Week – July 27 to 31
Registered attendees are to be dropped off at 8:30 a.m. All attendees are to be picked up by 5:30 p.m. Children aged 5-9 years old are eligible to enroll. Registration forms are available at the circulation desk or online at franksarrislibrary. org and the Frank Sarris Public Library Facebook page. Completed paperwork and payment are due at the time of registration.
Save the date
You’re Hired: Applying for Jobs Online Workshop: Whether you are looking for your first job or switching careers, applying for a job online can be a daunting task. This workshop is designed to help job seekers develop their resumes, learn how to navigate online job searches and avoid job-related scams. Two sessions will
be offered. The first will be on Feb. 21 from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. The second will be on Feb. 28 from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. This event is free to attend, but registration is required. Please contact the circulation desk at 724-745-1308 ext. 1. This event is open to teens and adults.
Mystery Club: Grab your magnifying glass and put all the clues together in this new book club focusing solely on mysteries. The first meeting will be on March 14 at 4:30 p.m. The group will be reading Benjamin Stevenson’s “Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone.” Mystery Club meets on the second Friday of every month at 4:30 p.m.
Upcoming programs
Adult programming
FSPL Book Club: The group chooses a mix of fiction and nonfiction books, including New York Times bestsellers. The March selection is “The Wedding People” by Alison Espach. April’s nonfiction selection is “All That She Carried: The Journey of Ashley’s Sack, a Black Family Keepsake” by Tiya Miles. Book Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m.
FSPL Comic Book Club: Bring a comic book you’re reading and chat with other comic book fans. It’s a relaxed and fun way to share what you enjoy, discover new titles, and connect with people who love comics too. This book club is for ages 16 and up. Books discussed may be rated Teen - Mature. Comic Book Club meets every third Saturday of the month at noon.
Silent Book Club: Join us for a relaxing and judgment-free reading experience at the Frank Sarris Public Library’s Silent Book Club! There is no assigned reading. Just bring a book, e-reader, audiobook or graphic novel and enjoy an hour of quiet, shared reading in a cozy space. We will start with a brief social chat and then move into a discussion of a book of your choice (optional). Silent Book Club meets every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
Children’s programming: Toddlers and preschoolers
Tuesday
Toddler Storytime: Toddler Time taps into a toddler’s boundless energy to get children excited about books and reading! This storytime includes short stories, finger plays, action rhymes and songs. If you think your child might not sit still during a storytime, we don’t expect them to! Come ready to dance, wiggle and play as we learn together! This 30-minute program is designed for toddlers aged 1 to 3. 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.
Preschool Storytime: Encourage children to develop a lifelong love of reading by taking them to the local library for storytime. Enjoy books, songs, activities and more as preschoolers build early literacy
skills. Suitable for children ages 3 through 5. 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.
Wednesday
Wiggles & Giggles: Join us for some wiggling and giggling fun! Enjoy this lively movement class with your little one, where we’ll explore music, rhymes, fine-motor fingerplays and large-motor movements. For children ages 1-4 and their caregivers. Because of the nature of this program, we ask everyone to actively participate with their children by dancing and trying out the motions. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow you to move! 10:00 to 10:30 a.m.
Little Picasso: Do you have a budding artist at home? Little Picasso is an interactive art program that lets preschoolers explore with various art supplies and encourages them to express and develop their imagination. 10:45 to 11:30 a.m.
School Readiness: School Readiness is an afternoon class for children ages 4 to 6. Kids will sing songs, read stories and play games while building essential skills like active listening and following directions. 11:30 a.m. to noon
Junior Engineer: This program aims to teach preschool children fundamental engineering concepts through exploring picture books. There will be plenty of hands-on activities, story sharing, and active listening. Noon to 12:30 p.m.
Thursday
Family Storytime: Family Storytime is a fun and meaningful way to encourage children’s love of books. It also helps spark their passion as future readers! Join us as we share stories, rhymes, songs and more together. This program is developmentally suitable for ages 2-4. To help all children get the most out of their experience, we encourage you to listen, sing and wiggle along with your little ones. 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.
Children’s programming: Afternoon (All children’s programs begin at 4 p.m. and end at 5:45 p.m.)
Tuesday
Lego Club: Calling all Master Builders! Show off your building skills at our Lego Club. For ages 4-12. 4:00 to 5:45 p.m.
Wednesday
Afternoon Games: Join us at the library if you enjoy board games or would like to try our Nintendo Switch. All games are suitable for ages 6 and up. 4:00 to 5:45 p.m.
Thursday
Action Lab: Foster your child’s passion for science, math and creativity with this new STEAM program. Ages 6-10. 4:00 to 5:45 p.m.
PA
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