Tri-State Business Journal - Spring 2026

LIGHTS CURTAIN ACTION

Four stages, countless performances

NEW TAVERN: Offers steampunk vibes

CHAMBER

SPOTLIGHT: Mon

Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce

BEST PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS

Washington Auto Mall leads with heart

6 LIGHTS, CURTAIN, ACTION!

Four stages, countless performances

{from the editor}

14

NEW TAVERN: Offers steampunk vibes

The little places that keep our region alive

Scrolling through LinkedIn the other day, I came across a really interesting tidbit: small businesses account for 43.5% of U.S. gross domestic product.

That’s the thing about shopping local. It’s never just a transaction. Small businesses are the backbone of economic growth, job creation and innovation.

In our corner of the world, businesses are often woven right into the fabric of the community. The person ringing up your purchase might also be sponsoring the local Little League team. The café owner might be the one hosting fundraisers for the fire department. The shop you visit during the holidays might have been there long before many of us moved to town.

I’ve always loved wandering through local shops, especially the ones tucked along our small-town main streets. Sometimes you go in for one thing and leave with something entirely different. Sometimes you leave with a new recommendation for a restaurant, a local event you hadn’t heard about or a friendly conversation that brightens your day.

And honestly, those moments are part of what makes a place feel like home.

Local businesses carry a lot on their shoulders. They weather unpredictable seasons, shifting trends and the everyday challenges of running a company. Yet many still manage to greet customers by name and ask how the family is doing.

That kind of care can’t be packaged in a box or shipped overnight.

So the next time you need a gift, a cup of coffee or even just a place to browse for a few minutes, consider stopping into one of the many businesses that make our region special. You never know what you might discover — or who you might run into while you’re there.

As always, I’d love to hear your story ideas or suggestions. Feel free to reach out at 724-222-2200 ext. 2421 or tthurston@observer-reporter.com.

Take care, and happy exploring.

23 CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT: Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Editor

26 BEST PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS

Washington Auto Mall leads with heart

A shot from a previous production put on by the Old Schoolhouse Players at the Bud Allison Auditorium in Hickory. The group is celebrating its 34th season in 2026

Advertising Director

Carole DeAngelo

Graphic Designer

Eric Tomlinson

Contributors

April Barbe

Emily King

Amy Kowinsky

Leanna Spada

TRI-STATE

Neuro ath Centers

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers

“I

for close to 3 years and thought I would end up in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. I am 90% better and so happy I have my life back.”

• Factory-trained and certified sales associates and technicians

• A reputation and track record of excellent customer care

• Over 50 years of service to our community

• At South Hills Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram all vehicles include Nitrofill Nitrogen Filled Tires to improve performance and increase tire lifespan and the South Hills Advantage.

Lights, Curtain, Action!

Four

stages, countless performances

Story and photos courtesy of the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency

Little Lake

In the summer of 1947, Will Disney and his mother, Edith, were traveling through the Pittsburgh area searching for a suitable site for a summer stock community theatre. As they passed through Canonsburg, they saw a large red barn sitting on a lake. After conversing with the farmer who owned the property, Disney was able to rent and convert the property into a theatre that opened in 1949, complete with seating, a snack bar, green room, box office and more. And thus, Little Lake Theatre was born, ready to entertain the community for the next 75 years and beyond.

Today, Little Lake Theatre Company maintains that small theatre charm — but it has evolved since the 1940s. Now equipped with 135 theatre-inthe-round-style seats that offer an intimate, intense way to experience the performance, and a team of both dedicated volunteers and paid staff, Little Lake Theatre can produce 10 or more shows in a year.

Little Lake’s offerings also include children’s programming and performances, summer camps and classes, apprenticeship programs and much more, making it a hub for Washington County’s thriving arts and culture scene. The theatre is also committed to the philosophy that theatre is for everyone by modifying several of its performances to be sensory-friendly, with dimmed lights, reduced sound, additional staff, technology and support for those with special needs.

Little Lake Theatre’s 78th season is themed “Home is Where the Heart Is,” with shows like “The Wizard of Oz,” “Dial M for Murder,” “Pickleball,”

“A Few Good Men” and more all on the lineup to make for a 2026 season bringing all the good feelings of “home” to the stage. Tickets can be purchased at littlelake.org or on the day of at the box office.

Washington Community Theatre

Founded by a group of theatre-loving Washington residents, The Washington Community Theatre has been a cornerstone of the arts since staging its first play in 1967.

WCT’s mission is simple: to nurture local interest and participation in the theatrical arts and present high-quality, family-friendly performances to audiences. True to its mission, the theatre’s enduring success over 57 years is attributed to a culture of mutual growth and dedication. Everyone involved — from cast and crew to directors and board members — is a volunteer, and the organization relies on

donations, ticket sales and sponsorships to maintain high-quality performances and pass the arts along to the next generation.

That next generation is the key to the theatre’s success for the next 50 years. The Washington Community Theatre Kidz children’s theatre program hosts workshops and other skill-building sessions to get school-aged children involved in the theatre arts. This year, the program is even hosting a show of its own: “The Rainbow Fish.” Those involved with the WCT hope that programs like this will spark a lifelong love of the performing arts and inspire continued involvement in the theatre.

The theatre produces two shows annually: a summer musical and a fall production. Summer performances and rehearsals are held at the Washington Community Park Pavilion, while fall productions have been held at venues like the Elks Club or First Presbyterian Church. This year’s lineup includes “Legally Blonde: The Musical” in the summer and “The Full Monty” in the fall. The latter will be staged at Nineteen North in downtown Washington.

Tickets for the Washington Community Theatre’s 2026 shows can be purchased online at washingtoncommunitytheatre.org or in person at the box office.

Old Schoolhouse Players

When you think of Broadway, you may not also be thinking of the countryside. That is, unless you are at the Old Schoolhouse Players, where “Broadway in the Country” is the name of the game.

Old Schoolhouse Players is celebrating its 34th season in 2026 with productions that will have both locals and visitors alike flocking to the Bud Allison Auditorium in Hickory, which the group has called home since its founding in 1996. What started as simple skits has evolved into

a diversely talented group that has put on more than 100 dramatic and musical productions over many successful seasons.

The group is comprised entirely of volunteers, some of whom have been with the OSP since its founding. Members are diverse in age, gender and backgrounds — some with zero theatre experience — but all find a pleasant, highly rewarding sense of community with other members of the group, who are similarly dedicated to creating shows to rival those in downtown Pittsburgh. Even set design and scenery are highly thought out, with the OSP going so far as to build real brick walls on stage or using dry ice to create special effects.

Old Schoolhouse Players presents five shows a year, with directors carefully considering what audiences might want to see most. What is currently popular, along with prior well-performing shows, are key factors in these considerations, but the shows chosen are always suitable for all ages of theatregoers.

2026’s lineup includes shows like “A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love & Murder,” “Roald Dahl’s James & the Giant Peach,” “The Mousetrap” and “Jim Henson’s Emmett Otter’s Jug Band Christmas.” Tickets can be purchased online at osptheater.com or on the day of at the box office.

The Basement Players

Lastly, a new theatre group has recently emerged in the heart of Canonsburg: The Basement Players, a community theatre dedicated to advancing the arts and providing opportunities for kids and adults alike to get involved in the theatre arts.

Fresh off its very first season, the company is owned by two teachers at the Canon-McMillan School District who have dubbed the Basement Players a “teaching theatre,” as the ultimate goal is not only put on great productions but to use their professional connections to bring industry leaders before students of all ages. The theatre also offers internship opportunities for students through a partnership with the Canon-McMillan School District.

The Basement Players’ 2026 lineup includes a summer show, “Footloose,” and a winter show, “Annie.” Tickets can be purchased online at basementplayers.com.

A year of success and growth

First Federal of Greene County notes achievements in 2025

WAYNESBURG, PA – Shortly after marking 101 years of service in early 2025, First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County continued adding to its history with the opening of its eleventh office in Fairchance, Pa.

The new full-service branch – which hosted a grand opening in April – was just one of many achievements highlighting the Association’s successes and growth last year, according to Charles W. Trump, Jr., President/CEO of First Federal of Greene County, who reviewed those accomplishments during the Jan. 28 annual meeting of members.

“The local communities and neighborhoods were fantastically welcoming and supportive, and the business and relationships that have continued to evolve and expand in the last several months have been fulfilling and meaningful,” Trump wrote in his annual President’s Report about the Fairchance office. “This project seemed to be the perfect launch into the next century of service for First Federal of Greene County.”

Turning to the Association’s successes in 2025, Trump remarked that no contributing factor is more paramount than its employees.

“The men and women responsible for running each transaction, managing each relationship and conversation and ensuring that each customer is handled with care are crucial to the Association’s success,” Trump wrote.

The work family and employee longevity are two unique features First Federal of Greene County has maintained in a rapidly changing workforce environment. Last year saw the retirement of six long-time employees, whose individual service years added up to almost two centuries.

“This year was marked with bittersweet retirements of some of those special souls that carry out our service mission,” Trump said. “Most companies today do not experience the blessing of longevity with their employees, but

what a blessing to have a combined 172 years of service from these retirees.”

Other areas of success in 2025 included numerous investments and upgrades in technology and across bank operations, which only help the Association deliver better service, safety and security for customers.

Financial highlights from 2025 included $1.010 billion in assets, $850 million in deposits, and $701 million in the Association’s mortgage portfolio, a $29 million increase over 2024. The year-end mortgage effective yield totaled 4.32 percent.

“As with the last few years, funds on deposit represented the most volatile aspect of assetliability management,” Trump noted, adding that the Association will continue “monitoring the competitive field of financial institutions and mitigating deposit funds reduction by offering competitive and sensible rates of return on various deposit products.”

Along with Trump, the Board of Directors includes Chairwoman Judi Goodwin Tanner, Gregory A. Parsons, Jay S. Hammers, Murray W. Hoy, Stephen M. Neubauer, Douglas A. Wilson and Michael C. Baily. Neubauer and Baily were re-elected to 3-year terms on the Board. John E. Mariner and Henry T. Cochran serve as Directors Emeritus.

Also during the Association’s annual meeting, Trump was re-elected President/CEO, and the following Association officers were once again elected: Chad M. Moore, Executive Vice President; Jeffrey B. Widdup, Vice President; Courtney A. Schroyer, Vice President/Chief Financial Officer; Kathleen M. Toth, Vice President/Secretary; Terry L. Clutter, Vice President/Treasurer/Assistant Secretary; Sarah A. Westfall, Assistant Vice President; Danielle R. Tobusto, Assistant Vice President; Aimee D. Toothman, Assistant Vice President; and Brian E. Moody, Assistant Treasurer.

The Board of Directors, Officers and General Counsel of First Federal of Greene County. Back row, from l. to r.: Terry L. Clutter, Vice President/Treasurer/Assistant Secretary; Directors Michael C. Baily, Douglas A. Wilson, Murray W. Hoy and Jay S. Hammers; Director and President/ CEO Charles W. Trump, Jr.; Chairwoman of the Board Judi Goodwin Tanner; Director Gregory A. Parsons; General Counsel Paul S. McGrath, Jr., of McGrath McCall, P.C.; Brian E. Moody, Assistant Treasurer; and Jeffrey B. Widdup, Vice President.

Seated, from l. to r.: Chad M. Moore, Executive Vice President; Courtney A. Schroyer, Vice President/Chief Financial Officer; Kathleen M. Toth, Vice President/Secretary; Aimee D. Toothman, Assistant Vice President; Danielle R. Tobusto, Assistant Vice President; and Sarah A. Westfall, Assistant Vice President. Not pictured are Director Stephen M. Neubauer and Directors Emeritus John E. Mariner and Henry T. Cochran.

As First Federal of Greene County enters its 102nd year of service, all of its various people and parts add up to a powerful engine driving the Association forward. Fittingly, Trump referenced a famous quote by famed businessman and Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford.

“Our employees, officers and Board of Directors are excited to be a part of such a storied and successful organization,” Trump wrote. “As we venture past the century mark, our evolution, success and progression will be carried out carefully, thoughtfully and strategically, with the customer and community at heart.

“Henry Ford offered, ‘Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.’ First Federal of Greene County takes pride in being woven into the fabric of our special neighborhoods and towns, helping to unite behind the healthy and crucial efforts of working together as our journey continues.”

Since 1924, First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County has served the residents of Southwestern Pennsylvania through a combination of traditional deposit and loan products and evolving technological convenience. From checking and savings accounts to mortgage and home equity loans, from online bill pay to mobile banking, First Federal of Greene County offers a variety of services to its customers, all while remaining committed to being “The People You Know, The People You Can Trust.” Based in Waynesburg, Pa., First Federal of Greene County maintains nine offices in Greene, Fayette and Washington counties in Pennsylvania, and two First Greene Mortgage subsidiary offices in Morgantown and Bridgeport, W.Va. For more information, visit www.ffgc.bank.

Modular homes have experienced growth in popularity over the recent years. Others look to modular homes for savings or for a second home.

Modular homes are built to residential standards in a factory, then delivered and assembled at the construction site. The time savings and the efficiencies of producing most of the structure in a modern factory also make modular homes a great value.

Follow these tips to help you find a modular home that will fit all of your needs.

The Dealer

Your first step is finding a qualified, licensed dealer who works with modular home manufacturers.

Route 21 Homes has been doing it for 46 years in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. With 2 locations in Carmichaels, Pa and Donegal, Pa.

Route 21 Homes can handle all aspects of construction on your new home. They will make certain that the design meets your specifications and budget.

Route 21 Homes will oversee all aspects of construction of your new home, including but not limited to:

*Working with home owner in obtaining all necessary permits

*Concrete – Foundation drawings

*Plumbing

*HVAC

*Electrical

*Carpentry work on site

*Project manager to oversee your project

In addition, Route 21 Homes can assist with finding the perfect match for your individual lending needs. We have partnered with multiple local lenders, providing our customers with both options for financing and great rates. However, if you prefer, you are always welcome to bring your own lender to the table.

The Manufacturer

Each manufacturer has different options. There are sizes, floorplans, and architectural designs to consider. Maybe you would prefer a ranch, two-story, cape cod, or a chalet-style structure.

You can customize the look to meet your lifestyle and budget.

Modular homes are manufactured using innovative technologies in a

controlled environment, the result is a more precisely built home. Variations in weather during construction will not affect the home. Manufacturers purchase massive quantities of materials for their factories, so they pass their cost savings on to you.

Under normal circumstances, production time at the factory is approximately 2-3 months. The structure will be delivered to your job site and placed onto the foundation. After that, the final process of construction usually takes 12 weeks depending on the home and job site.

Come visit Route 21 Homes at one of their 2 locations, Carmichaels and Donegal, to tour over $2,000,000 of model homes. While your touring make sure to take note of the many options and features available to you, turning you house into your family home.

Route 21 homes is proud to be the largest Pennwest Homes builder in the Northeast as well as being named the 2023, 2024, and 2025 Best of the Best in Home Construction. Taking pride in making customers dreams a reality is job number one at Route 21 Homes!

New tavern offers steampunk vibes

By April Barbe

Decorative brass, vintage lighting and a giant octopus wearing a top hat and goggles are just some of the sights at a new tavern in town.

Matt Harding, co-owner of The Alchemist’s Tavern, is offering one of the only places in the area to get a “true craft cocktail … at least without traveling through a tunnel and over a bridge.”

Harding and his wife, Missy, opened the tavern on Dec. 6 at 400 Adios Drive, Suite 20. He said the business is in the perfect location.

“We liked the location we chose on Adios Drive because of its proximity to the casino, all of the hotels on Racetrack Road, and some of the major highways in the area,” he said.

The Alchemist’s Tavern has a steampunk style that lures

customers inside with its unique atmosphere.

According to the business’s website, steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction and fantasy that imagines a world where steam power remained the dominant technology, often set in an alternative version of the 19th-century Victorian era or the American Wild West. It blends retro-futuristic inventions, clockwork machinery, airships and analog gadgets with a distinctive aesthetic inspired by the Industrial Revolution.

Walking into the tavern, folks are met with a Victorian elegance mixed with industrial charm. While a bartender pours handcrafted drinks and cocktails in one area, familyfriendly games are offered in another.

“We have handcrafted non-alcoholic drinks for all ages, family-friendly tabletop tavern games and a wholesome atmosphere. Your entire family is welcome at The Alchemist’s Tavern with adult supervision,” the website states.

And Harding said young and old alike enjoy seeing

“Octavius,” a large steampunk octopus that hangs from the ceiling.

The tavern also occasionally has live acoustic acts and magicians, Harding added.

Customers can choose from a cocktail/mocktail menu of more than 60 drinks, and folks can also order small plates and desserts.

“Currently, we offer charcuterie, buffalo chicken dip, shrimp cocktail, hummus, bruschetta, chips and dip with guac, and a flight of nuts and trail mix. We also have several offerings of mousse,” Harding said.

Plus, he added that the tavern also has an “Absinthe drip” on the menu, which is something he believes isn’t offered anywhere else in the Washington area.

Absinthe is a potent liquor traditionally made with wormwood, anise and fennel. It’s known for its green hue and alcohol content, which is often 55 to 75% ABV.

Harding said the most popular cocktail on the menu so far is the “Iron Ember,” which is a smoked old fashioned.

The tavern will run mocktail specials for Dry January. Some of the mocktails include the Fireside Orchard Old Fashioned, The Brass Tomato, The Rosemary and Rivets, The Steam Powered Giraffe and The Smoldering Sun.

There will also be seasonal menus and special cocktails in February for Valentine’s Day and in March for St. Patrick’s Day.

“Our menu has something for everyone, including cocktails with gin, mezcal and bourbon. We also have a great bourbon selection,” Harding added.

For those looking to host a party, The Alchemist’s Tavern can accommodate parties of up to 50 guests. The website said events may include holiday parties, cocktail parties, business luncheons and more. Contact the business at 724-914-6901 for more information.

Harding and his wife also own an escape room in McMurray, so he said they have experience “theming rooms and always wanted to do something in the steampunk style.”

The couple also owns a diner called Asher’s at the Airport in Waynesburg. The Alchemist’s Tavern includes two full-time employees and a couple of parttime, Harding said.

“It has been absolutely incredible. We are really humbled by the support from the community,” Harding said.

Hours include Monday through Thursday 4 p.m. to midnight, Friday 2 p.m. to midnight, Saturday noon to midnight and Sunday 2 to 10 p.m. For more information, visit thealchemiststavern.com or search for The Alchemist’s Tavern on Facebook.

Because he’s my Husband

Because Dementia is Different

By Amy Kowinsky

“ After 45 years, it broke my heart that I couldn’t provide all the help he needed. But now, because of the terri c care he’s getting, I can focus full time on the promise I made to love, honor and cherish.”

TO LEARN MORE, ARRANGE A VISIT TODAY.

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when it began. Was it the first time she told you the same story twice in one visit? Or the moment you realized he just wasn’t acting quite like himself? In hindsight, the signs feel obvious — but in the moment, it’s human nature to explain them

are enough to make many people normalize the signs they see, avoid the conversation, or delay seeing a doctor. Researchers are working tirelessly for a cure, and we all hope for the day when no one has to face dementia. But right now, countless families are in the thick of it. Chances are, you know one.

We all forget things sometimes. He’s just been under a lot of stress.

SrCare.org/devoted

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room — the fear of a dementia diagnosis. It’s one of the scariest conversations families face. The uncertainty, the “what ifs,” the worry about what comes next… and we all know that dementia has no cure, that it gets worse over time, and that medications often don’t help. Those words alone

As the disease progresses, dementia can be as hard, if not harder, on the family caregiver as on the person living with it. Life doesn’t prepare you for this role. One daughter said, “I think about it all the time. Am I doing the right thing for my mom? It feels like a second job I was never trained for and don’t feel competent at.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITIES

While dementia is a medical condition, much of the struggle isn’t medical at all. It’s emotional. Social. Relational. It touches every part of life — yours and theirs. And every journey is unique. There’s a saying: If you’ve met one person with dementia, you’ve met one person with dementia. The disease looks different for everyone, and so does the caregiving experience.

That’s why cookie-cutter advice rarely helps. Google searches can leave you more confused than before. As a result, many families are left feeling guilty, inadequate, confused, and frustrated — even though they’re doing the best they can.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to navigate this journey without help. Dementia360, a program of Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, exists to give families the support, resources, and guidance they need to keep a loved one safe and comfortable at home for as long as that’s the goal. At the heart of Dementia360 is the relationship between your family and a dedicated dementia care coordinator, someone who will walk beside you, offering personalized knowledge, practical skills, and ongoing support so you can feel confident and capable in your role. Wherever you are in the dementia journey, help is available.

While we can’t cure dementia, it is definitely possible for families to live better with it.

> Amy Kowinsky, Executive Director, Dementia360 can be reached at 412.435.8950 or akowinsky@srcare.org. Learn more at SrCare.org/ Dementia360.

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT:

MON VALLEY REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Valley Business Works is built on strong foundation

By Executive Director Leanna Spada

At the heart of the Mon Valley’s continued growth and transformation, the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of Valley Business Works, our newly established 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting economic development, workforce initiatives and business education throughout the region.

While Valley Business Works represents a new chapter, it is built on the strong foundation of the Mon Valley Regional Chamber itself. For decades, the Chamber has served as a central connector for businesses across the region, providing advocacy at the local and state levels, meaningful networking opportunities, leadership development, workforce partnerships and strategic visibility for our members.

In an economic climate where business owners are navigating workforce challenges, rising costs and rapid change, belonging to a chamber is more than a membership — it is a competitive advantage. It offers credibility, collaboration and a seat at the table where regional conversations and decisions are happening.

Together, the chamber and Valley Business Works create a powerful ecosystem: one that

about building the Mon Valley.

Valley Business Works was created to expand opportunities for collaboration, provide access to new resources and help strengthen the economic foundation of the communities we serve.

Equally important is the chamber’s role in supporting the broader community. Strong businesses create strong communities, and the chamber works to foster that connection every day. From supporting local events and nonprofit partnerships to promoting regional development and workforce initiatives, the chamber helps ensure that the Mon Valley remains a place where businesses, families and future generations can thrive.

In today’s rapidly changing economic landscape, belonging to a chamber of commerce offers more than networking — it provides collaboration, credibility and a unified voice for the business community. Together, the Mon Valley Regional Chamber and Valley Business Works are creating a stronger ecosystem that supports established businesses while also investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.

At Slovenian Savings and Loan Association, our mission is simple: put customers first, care for our employees, and strengthen our community we call home.

Located in Strabane at 130 Boone Avenue (near Exit 43 of 1-79), we've grown to over $600 million in assets by staying true to one principle: always doing right for the people we serve.

We're big enough to meet your financial needs, but small enough to know your name.

What Sets Us Apart?

Friendly, familiar faces who know you

Employees averaging 20+ years of service

Highly competitive rates

No late fees & minimal loan fees

Rooted in Washington County, we proudly serve everyone in our community with dependable banking solutions and the kind of personal service you deserve.

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association 130 Boone Avenue • Strabane, PA 15363 Near Exit 43 of 1-79

www.SlovenianSavingsAndLoan.com

Paradise Confectionary’s sweet legacy

Paradise Confectionary in Washington has been delighting sweet tooths with hand-dipped chocolates and candy made from family recipes for more than a century. Founded in 1920 by Greek immigrant Peter Paradise, the small business is a testament to the American dream.

Now celebrating 106 years, the shop continues to blend tradition with thoughtful innovation while remaining a cornerstone of the community.

In 1948, Peter brought his nephew from Greece to learn the chocolate business, and Jake bought the business from Peter upon his retirement. Jake’s daughter, Anna Berg, and her husband, David, are the third-generation and current owners of Paradise Confectionary. Berg is also a BeLocal member, committed to supporting fellow small businesses and strengthening ties throughout the region.

“We are a small mom-and-pop shop and have kept the candy the same hand-dipped quality as in the past,” Berg says. Their most popular treats include chocolate-covered nuts, caramels, turtles, chocolate creams and holiday specialties that have become traditions for many local families.

The Bergs say it is the community that keeps them going. They have served generations of customers, and some are so loyal that they have candy shipped to them in other parts of the country.

The shop’s dedication has earned recognition beyond Washington. Paradise Confectionary was named an Observer-Reporter Best of the Best winner for product made in Southwestern Pennsylvania and ranked among the top three candy shops in the region, an honor Berg says belongs to their customers as much as the business.

“It is by God’s grace that we have been able to do this and truly give credit to Him,” Berg says.

In a fast-paced and ever-changing world, it’s nice to know that some things, like good chocolate, are consistent. Berg expressed appreciation to loyal customers and to their friends and family who continue to share Paradise Confectionary with others, allowing the business to reach 106 years — and counting.

Best philanthropic business: Washington Auto Mall leads with heart

By Emily King

At first glance, a car dealership might seem like an unlikely recipient of a most philanthropic business award. But for Washington Auto Mall, giving has long been a core part of the dealership’s mission. The Driven by Hope campaign has helped shine a spotlight on local nonprofit organizations doing vital work in the community. For those who know about Driven by Hope, it was no surprise that Washington Auto Mall won the Observer-Reporter’s Best of the Best award for best philanthropic business.

Each year, the Best of the Best Awards recognize outstanding local businesses and organizations in Washington and the surrounding Southwestern Pennsylvania area. Readers and community members can nominate and then vote for their favorite business in over 100 categories. It provides the opportunity to support the businesses and organizations that mean the most to them.

“We didn’t want philanthropy to feel like something that only happened at a corporate level — we wanted our employees to have a voice in how we give back to the community that supports us.”

A volunteer committee composed of Washington Auto Mall and Observer-Reporter employees meets to select a nonprofit organization for recognition. Organizations can be nominated by anyone, with many recommendations coming from customers and readers. The committee then considers the organizations and makes decisions based on their work, funding needs and more.

The Washington Auto Mall has always believed that giving back to the community is just as important as the number of cars on its lot. They have demonstrated this through community partnerships, sponsorships and charitable giving. They launched Driven by Hope in 2024 to put the spotlight on local nonprofits and give employees the chance to be a part of the giving.

“Washington County is filled with incredible nonprofits doing meaningful work, often without the recognition or funding they deserve,” says Jennifer Trapuzzano, advertising and marketing director for Washington Auto Mall.

“We evaluate nonprofits based on community need, organizational integrity and potential for impact,” says Sara Hall, human resources manager at Washington Auto Mall.

“Intentional diversity in causes is crucial because Washington County’s needs are diverse — from food insecurity and youth programs to health services and animal welfare.”

Each committee member brings their own unique perspectives and experiences within the community. The chosen nonprofit receives a monetary donation from Washington Auto Mall and a promotional package from the Observer-Reporter, which includes a spotlight article in the newspaper and digital promotion, including social media posts, targeted email campaigns and more.

When the Observer-Reporter announced the winners of the Best of the Best awards in November, the team was thrilled to learn that Washington Auto Mall had won the category of best philanthropic business.

“Being named best philanthropic business was incredibly meaningful to our Driven by Hope committee,” says Trapuzzano.

“This recognition validated the intentional effort our employees and leadership put into supporting Washington County beyond the showroom floor. It was humbling, energizing and deeply rewarding.”

Trapuzzano says that being recognized by customers, neighbors and friends made the award feel personal, showing that Driven by Hope was truly having an impact on a local level.

“This award reflects the culture we’ve intentionally cultivated — one rooted in service, accountability and community pride. Philanthropy isn’t just a corporate initiative; it’s something our employees believe in,” says Trapuzzano.

connected to.

“We encourage involvement, dialogue and ownership when it comes to giving back. This culture of shared responsibility is what makes programs like Driven by Hope authentic rather than performative,” says Trapuzzano.

Philanthropy doesn’t just benefit the recipient; it can also have a profound effect on the volunteers that devote their time to a special cause. The team at Washington Auto Mall believes that involving employees in decision-making and allowing their voices to be heard cultivates a culture of generosity that the whole team can feel

Washington Auto Mall believes that local businesses have both the opportunity and the responsibility to invest in the community that supports them.

“Success is never achieved in isolation. When businesses reinvest time, resources and energy locally, they contribute to stronger schools, safer neighborhoods and more resilient families,” says Hall.

Trapuzzano says being recognized for Driven by Hope has reinforced their mission and inspired them to integrate charitable giving and community involvement into everything they do.

“It has affirmed something we’ve believed for a long time — that giving back isn’t something we do on the side — it’s a part of who we are.”

The Confidence Behind a GOOD Smile The Confidence Behind a GOOD Smile

When parents consider orthodontic treatment or their

children, they o ten thin about strai h

bites ut orthodontic care can als

buildin con idence durin a child’

As children et older, they become more aware o their appearance and how they interact with others eelin con ident about their smile can enco

participate more in class, connect

themselves freely. rthodontic treatment can address concerns such as crowding, spacing, and bite alignment, improving both oral health and self-confidence

At ood rthodontics, creating beautiful smiles goes beyond aesthetics. t’s about helping young patients feel comfortable, confident, and proud of their smiles as they grow.

That confidence can have long-term benefits. confident smile often plays a role in future milestones from school

presentations and social interactions to ob interviews and professional opportunities later in life

The merican ssociation of rthodontists recommend

that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age

seven Early evaluations allow orthodontists to monitor aw

growth and tooth development helping determine the best

time for treatment if needed

Equally important is the experience patients have during

treatment. t ood rthodontics a pa

c

oach

eatin a welcomin environment for children and families For parents, orthodontic care is an investment not ust in their child’s smile and ite, ut in their confidence and future success

When Your Health Can’t Wait: Urgent Care Open in Waynesburg

WVU Medicine continues to bring excellent care to the Greene County community at the Waynesburg Outpatient Center. We have expanded our services to include a new Urgent Care clinic, making care more accessible for when your doctor’s office is closed, or you can’t wait for an appointment.

Urgent Care provides treatment for nonemergency health issues, like broken bones, coughs, colds, flu, infections, rashes, sprains, strains, and more. Our expert team is prepared to help your family get back to feeling their best

with compassion and efficiency. We can easily assist with followup appointments and specialty referrals, if needed.

Urgent Care at the Waynesburg Outpatient Center is open seven days a week, 8 am to 8 pm (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). No appointment is necessary at any WVU Medicine Urgent Care clinic.

Services offered include:

• Treatment for minor illnesses and injuries

• Lab and imaging

• Vaccinations

• Sports physicals

The Waynesburg Outpatient Center also offers primary, OB-GYN, pediatric, and specialty care services.

Days, evenings, weekends, and holidays – you can’t predict when you’ll get sick or hurt, but WVU Medicine

Urgent Care is prepared to help when you do.

Waynesburg Outpatient Center is located at 451 Murtha Drive in Waynesburg. Visit WVUMedicine.org/ Waynesburg for more information.