May 2020 Est. 1985
The Northside Chronicle
Volume 36 Issue 5 - FREE -
The Community Newspaper of Pittsburgh’s Historic Northside
Owner of Troy Hill salon donates 500+ handmade masks to area hospitals By Ashlee Green Justine Jernigan is standing inside of her local Walmart, on the hunt for elastic. “I’m usually isolated in the sewing section every time I come,” she says. But today, even Walmart is out of the stuff, which is in high demand due to the growing interest in handmade face masks amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Jernigan, owner of The Beauty Suite PGH, opening soon in Troy Hill, is a cosmetologist, certified sugarist, lash and brow artist, and seamstress. Her online shop Twirl & Grace is a little girls’ bouPhoto by Janine Faust
Warren Jones, the great-grandson of Albert Eastwood Jones Sr., founder of A.E. Jones Sign Co., holds up the popular golden numbers with black outlines that are often showcased on windows in the Northside to display a house's address. In its 123-year history, the company has weathered economic collapses, new technologies, and changing consumer tastes. Full story below.
Century-old sign company has true grit They've been through the Great Depression and the Steel Crisis: COVID-19 is next. Photo courtesy of Justine Jernigan
Jernigan is using her skills as a seamstress to make fabric masks for those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. tique that sells dresses and event wear for tea parties and pageants. Because of this, she already had the sewing resources when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, she says, which gave her the motivation to temporarily shift her focus from dresses to fabric masks. “As a seamstress, I am guilty of hoarding fabrics and notions such as thread and See Masks, Page 5
INSIDE
By Janine Faust Warren Jones stretches across a laminator and pulls a layer of ultraviolet-resistant plastic over a dozen freshly printed tabletop displays for Happy Day Dessert Factory. It's a gray day in late February, and the ice cream parlor in Allegheny West needs signage for its upcoming grand opening. “I get my exercise,” he jokes, making sure the laminate is pressed down evenly. “Thank God I have Pappy’s long arms.” Warren runs the printed images through a laminator, using a foot pedal to keep the
- Tour de Quarantine, Page 6
STORIES, COLUMNS, - Health & Wellness Guide, Page 11 FEATURES & MORE - Primary Election Guide, Page 29
machine moving so his hands are free to smooth the laminate. He explains some of his tricks of the trade while printing out
Photo by Janine Faust
Located on Tripoli Street in Historic Deutschtown, A.E. Jones Sign Co. has always operated in the Northside.
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the Happy Day Dessert Factory displays: Usually, he keeps one fingernail a little long, he says, to make peeling extra laminate off easier. These days, Warren is the sole employee of the A.E. Jones Sign Co., founded by Warren’s great-grandfather, Albert Eastwood Jones Sr., in 1897. The company is located at 507 Tripoli St. in Historic Deutschtown, tucked away in a modest garage storefront made of brick and white paint. While it’s moved locations several times, it has operated solely in the Northside for 123 years, and always by a See Signs, Page 8
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Page 2
Northside Public Safety Bulletin
Fellow Northsiders are practicing social distancing and leaving space in between each other. This shows how unified our neighborhood and neighbors are: We are sticking together as we stay apart at this uncertain time in all of our lives.
I find at this time, overreacting does not exist with this unseen virus among us. Fear helps no one, but what can help is being conscious of our daily actions as well as what we do. I cannot stress enough to please wash your hands thoroughly and keep them away from your face, as this is one way you can prevent contracting this virus. At this time, we are required to wear face masks or something to cover our face, mouth, and nose, when we go into public places such as grocery stores and takeout restaurants. As new information and data comes in daily, sometimes hourly, we urge you to keep yourself educated and informed, but don’t overwhelm yourself with too much news in a day’s time, as this can cause confusion and unneeded anxiety. If you are sick, please stay home and avoid other people. Call your doctor if you can, and avoid going into the hospital unless it’s an emergency. This is for your safety as well as the safety of others. If you feel that you may
need help, do not hesitate to call 911. Violent crimes are down throughout our city, but car thefts and house robberies are on an incline. Keep your doors locked in your vehicle and have nothing of value visible or in your vehicle at all. Keep your home locked at all times: This includes doors, windows, garages, and courtyards. Keeping lights on is a deterrent for criminal activities. Scammers are also on the rise: Please do not give any personal information on the phone or online via emails or text messages. Do not let anyone inside of your home and do not open your door if you are not expecting someone and do not have any scheduled appointments. People can pose as utility agents and as of late, they say they’re there to help you. This is a time more than ever before that we must look after one another, especially the elderly, people who are disabled, and those who are underserved. If you see someone in need or distress, call 311 or 911 to get them assistance. If you see any domestic abuse or crime in your neighborhood, please call 911 and report it. Always remember, you can do this anonymously, period. The 911 dispatcher will ask your name, as it is part of their protocol, but you can decline. The Northside Public Safety Council (NSPSC) would like to thank those that are on the front lines and serving us daily: healthcare providers, first responders, public works employees, grocery store workers, truck drivers, delivery agents, and postal workers. The NSPSC meeting will be canceled for the month of May and will resume in June if we can do it safely. You can contact us at any time if you need assistance, guidance, or questions. David Stacy is the president of NSPSC. Reach him by email at zone1psc@gmail.com or by phone at 412-321-0295. n
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May 2020
Community Meetings After Jail & Prison Ministry Support Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Allegheny Center Alliance Church 412.321.4333 ext. 127 801 Union Place, first floor
Manchester Citizens Corporation Quarterly meetings, call for times MCC Center, 1319 Allegheny Ave. 412.323.1743
Allegheny West Civic Council 2nd Tuesday, monthly, 7:30 p.m. Calvary United Methodist Church 412.323.8884
Manchester Public Safety Meeting Quarterly meetings, call for times Northside Leadership Conference 412.323.1743
Brighton Heights Citizens Federation 2nd Thursday, bi-monthly, 7 p.m. Morrow Elementary School 412.734.0233
Northside Rotary Club Every Friday, noon Cardello Building, 2nd Floor
Brightwood Civic Group 1st Tuesday, monthly,6 p.m. Pressley Ridge, 2611 Stayton St. 412.732.8152 Brightwood Community Emergency Response Shelter 3rd Thursday, monthly, 6 p.m. 3219 Central Ave. California-Kirkbride Blockwatch 3rd Thursday, monthly, 7 p.m. 1601 Brighton Rd., 3rd floor California-Kirkbride Neighbors 2nd Thursday, monthly, 7 p.m. 1601 Brighton Rd., 3rd floor 412.758.3898
NS Coalition for Fair Housing Board 2nd Monday, monthly, 6:30 p.m. 1821 Brighton Rd. 412.321.5527 NS Coalition for Fair Housing Members Monthly, call for times 1821 Brighton Rd. 412.321.5521 Northside Leadership Conference Call to confirm 1st Wednesday, monthly, 6 p.m. MCC Center, 1319 Allegheny Ave. 412.231.4714 North Side Lions Club 2nd and 4th Tuesday, monthly, noon Max’s Allegheny Tavern
Central Northside Neighborhood Council 2nd Monday, monthly, 7 p.m. Allegheny Traditional Academy 412.231.7742
North Side Public Safety Council 1st Thursday, monthly, 5:30 p.m. 1319 Allegheny Ave. 1st floor meeting room 412.231.4714 ext. 201
Charles Street Area Council 1st Monday, monthly, call for times Pittsburgh Project, 2801 N. Charles St. 412.321.5567
Northside Toastmasters 2nd & 4th Thursdays, monthly, 6:30 p.m. Carnegie Library, 1230 Federal St. 412-204-6018
Community Alliance of Spring Garden/ East Deutschtown 2nd Tuesday, monthly, 6:30 p.m. Fuhrer Building of St. Michael’s Church 412.228.0376
Observatory Hill, Inc. 3rd Wednesday, monthly, 7 p.m. Byzantine Seminary, 3605 Perrysville Ave. 412.231.2887
Deutschtown New Hope Council 3rd Thursday, monthly, 6:30 p.m. Community Center, 623 Suismon St. East Allegheny Community Council 2nd Tuesday, monthly, 7 p.m. Arnold’s Tea 412.321.1204 Fineview & Perry Hilltop Citizens Councils 4th Tuesday, monthly, 6 p.m. Contact for location info@ourfuturehilltop.org 412-238-7528 Mexican War Streets Society 3rd Monday, bi-monthly, 6:30-7 p.m. 1400 Buena Vista St. 412.323.9030
The Promise Group Every other Tuesday, 6 p.m. Western Pa. Humane Society 412.321.1019 Troy Hill Citizens Feb. 12, April 8, June 10, Aug. 12, Oct. 14, Dec. 9., 6 p.m. Most Holy Name School Hall 1515 Tinsbury St. 412.321.2852 Spring Hill Civic League March 2, May 4, Sept. 14, Oct. 5, Nov. 2 6 p.m, Spring Hill Elementary School auditorium, contact@shcl.org Summer Hill Citizens Committee 3rd Tuesday, monthly, 6:30 p.m. WPXI Television Station community room
DISCLAIMER: The viewpoints and opinions of the writers and contributors that appear in the Northside Chronicle do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints, opinions, beliefs or positions of the Northside Chronicle’s publishers, editors, staff and/or affiliates. The Northside Chronicle is not affiliated with any formal political, social, religious, educational or philosophical organization or party of any kind. The materials comprising the Northside Chronicle are provided by various organizations, community groups, advertisers, entities, writers and contributors and are provided as a service to the readers of the Northside Chronicle on an “as-is” basis for informational purposes only. The Northside Chronicle assumes no responsibility for any copyright infringement, errors or omissions in these materials and expressly disclaims any representations or warranties, express or implied, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose regarding the correctness, accuracy, completeness, timeliness and reliability of the information provided. The Northside Chronicle is not responsible for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance upon such information. Reference herein to any commercial product, process or service does not constitute or imply endorsement or favoring by the Northside Chronicle. © The Northside Chronicle 2019
The Northside Chronicle
May 2020
Page 3
District 19 News: Rep. Jake Wheatley As our communities continue to recover from the effects of an unprecedented pandemic, I remain committed to paving the way to help affected individuals, businesses, and institutions with immediate and longterm assistance and support. I know that residents here in Allegheny County and across our state are hurting, and I am working diligently with my colleagues in the House to bring each of them immediate relief—that includes our family-owned small businesses, our hospitality and health care workers, our seniors, and our schools. While there has been some federal help offered, we know that many of our residents just cannot wait—they need our immediate support and help during this extremely difficult time. To date, I’ve introduced several measures to provide relief and support, including the Emergency Relief of COVID-19 Workers Act, which would provide additional wages and support for essential workers, including those who have lost their jobs, and the creation of a special uncompensated care fund for Pennsylvanians who have lost their employer-provided health insurance coverage, due to being out of work. I am also working on a $10 billion business relief package that would set aside $5 billion for our state’s small businesses, $3 billion for minority businesses, $1.5 billion for our state’s food and hospitality industry and $500 million for sole proprietors.
My package would help preserve and bolster our small-business owners, the backbone of our commonwealth’s economy. Another bill I have introduced would
Photo courtesy of the office of Rep. Wheatley
State Rep. Jake Wheatley represents Pittsburgh's 19th District. In this month's column, he outlines some of his recent legislative efforts related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
require the state Departments of Health and Human Services to work closely with local officials and private labs to ensure proper collection of data, notably in low-income communities of color. This is important to me because I am extremely concerned that minority populations, who are more likely to be at risk for contracting COVID-19, are not being properly tracked, which significantly hampers efforts to curb the virus’s spread. These populations have higher rates of chronic diseases, including asthma, hypertension, and heart disease, which increases their risk of becoming ill. I am thankful and appreciative of the governor’s commitment to ensuring every person has a voice in our state, especially our communities of color. Governor Wolf recently announced the creation of a special equity task force to address the root causes of racial disparities in our communities— \in our healthcare systems, our electoral process and in our workforce. My hope is that this task force will begin by addressing structural and systemic barriers, with the goal of creating a transparent, accountable, and equitable process for how we allocate state resources. Please know that my staff and I can help you with any questions or concerns you may have, or if you need food or other assistance. You can always contact The People’s Office at 412-471-7760 or via email at RepWheatley@pahouse.net. n
Coronavirus response line now active in the Northside By Ashlee Green North Side Christian Health Center (NSCHC) is now operating a ‘coronavirus response line’ out of their main location in Historic Deutschtown. NSCHC is encouraging Northsiders to call their facility’s main line with questions related to coronavirus. Medical providers at NSCHC can help discern if your symptoms are specific to coronavirus and if they are serious enough to require emergency room care. To call the response line, dial 412321-4001, then press the star key. NSCHC has access to limited coronavirus tests. Tests will be offered to patients on a case-by-case basis and will be administered outside of the clinic with patients remaining in their cars. A tent may be set up in the future for people without access to a vehicle. NSCHC accepts all patients regardless of insurance and ability to pay. n
OUR STATE REPRESENTATIVE nd VOTE TUESDAY, JUNE 2 OR BY MAIL-IN BALLOT “In these times of great uncertainty, we need leaders in office who are battle tested, experienced and have a record of getting things done. I have been that leader for our communities over the last 10 years. I will continue to fight for our families and our shared values. I humbly ask for your support.” - Adam Ravenstahl
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District 1 News: Councilman Wilson Hello everyone, I know how tough the coronavirus pandemic has been on our Northside community. Many of us are staying home to try to limit the spread of COVID-19 or bravely continuing to go to work to provide essential services. Though we are beginning to see the curve
Photo courtesy of the Councilman
Councilman Bobby Wilson represents the City of Pittsburgh's District 1.
flatten in Allegheny County as a result of the sacrifices our local businesses have made in closing their doors and altering their services, this incredible disruption to our economy has cost many people their jobs. Nationwide, more than 26 million people, or one out of every six workers, have lost their jobs in the past five weeks. In Pennsylvania, one in four people have lost their jobs. Frankly, with the exception of fighting COVID-19 or losing a loved one to this disease, Northsiders are most worried about making ends meet after losing their jobs or having their hours cut. If you are in this financially precarious situation, I strongly urge you to apply for
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May 2020
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unemployment compensation by going to uc. pa.gov, click the "Unemployment Benefits" drop-down menu, and select "File for Benefits." Unemployment compensation is the traditional payment distributed by the state’s Department of Labor and Industry to Pennsylvanians who have lost their jobs due to an economic downturn, like the one we are all struggling through right now. It is meant to provide a source of income to jobless workers while the economy rebounds and they look for their next job. Right now, you are eligible for this compensation if your workplace temporarily or permanently closes, or cuts your hours, because of this pandemic. If you are an essential worker, you would also be eligible for this income if your boss has asked you to isolate yourself—to not to come in to work—to reduce the risk of infecting your coworkers. You can apply online for unemployment compensation. Email uchelp@ pa.gov if you have any questions. Traditionally, certain categories of workers—such as independent contractors, gig workers, and the self-employed—did not qualify for unemployment compensation. This is no longer the case. If you belong to PERSONAL INJURY | AUTO ACCIDENTS | MEDICAL MALPRACTICE this category of workers, please apply for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assis- SLIP, TRIP & FALLS | CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS | EMPLOYER VIOLATIONS tance immediately at pua.benefits.uc.pa.gov. This is a new form of compensation available through the end of this year and can be Top 50 Attorneys in Pittsburgh by Pittsburgh Magazine backdated to January 27, 2020. If you qualify for this assistance, you may be able to regain Top Attorneys in Pennsylvania | Best Lawyers in America by some of your lost income, as your weekly Pittsburgh Magazine | Pittsburgh Best Lawyers | Best Lawyers in payment should range between $200 and $550. America | National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys (NAOPIA) | If you apply for traditional unemployThe American Society of Legal Advocates | Pennsylvania Rising Stars ment compensation or the new Pandemic by Philadelphia Super Lawyers | Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Unemployment Assistance and are found eligible for either, you will automatically receive an additional $600 each week in federal pandemic unemployment compensation for every week that you receive these base forms Continued on Page 6
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May 2020
District 20 News: Rep. Ravenstahl Dear neighbors, I hope that this letter finds you, your families, your friends, and your neighbors in good health. I want to thank each and every person who reads this for your sacrifice and hard
Photo courtesy of the office of Rep. Ravenstahl
State Rep. Adam Ravenstahl represents the 20th Legislative District in Allegheny County. work. Whether you are an essential worker on the front lines of this crisis, or someone staying at home, your actions are saving lives and helping to slow the spread of
this virus. We have seen evidence that the actions we have taken are helping, that the virus’ spread has been slowed, and I am encouraged by discussions about how we will move forward and safely reopen Pennsylvania. But this crisis has also shown just how fragile many aspects of our society are – from our social safety net programs and healthcare system, to everyday protections for workers. Decades of politically driven agendas have chipped away at our social compact, restricting and defunding social programs and devaluing the very workers we now depend upon. This crisis has shown where we must do better. That is why I am introducing legislation to ensure that our essential workers will have access to workers’ compensation if they get sick, am supporting legislation to raise the minimum wage, to help working families with childcare, to invest in urgently needed protective equipment for workers, and to create social distancing best practices for businesses and workers on the front lines of this crisis. I believe in the people of our commonwealth. Eventually, this crisis will end, and it will be up to us to decide how to move forward. I hope that we will choose to build a better Pennsylvania: one that will be better prepared for future challenges. Be well, stay safe, Adam n
Page 5
The Beauty Suite PGH "ready to rock and roll" From Masks, Page 1 elastic,” Jernigan says. “I have a collection of sewing machines.” When the threat of COVID-19 first became serious, Jernigan donated over 500 of her masks to local hospitals, healthcare centers, and individuals who reached out to her as part of a vulnerable population for contracting the virus. Now, following Governor Wolf’s call on Pennsylvanians to wear a mask anytime they leave their house on April 3, she’s focusing on making masks for the general public. “I was getting requests, but not at the quantities that I am now,” she says. These days, she’s “flooded with mask orders” via her Facebook page. Prices for fabric and elastic have gone up, she says, and even after creating her own streamlined process, one mask still takes eight minutes to make, from initially cutting the fabric to sewing the final thread: “Too long,” she says with a laugh. “It’s outrageous.” She’s charging $5 per mask just to recover material costs. In addition to making masks, Jernigan is homeschooling five children. Three of them sew, she says, and her eldest one helps with cutting fabric and other simple tasks. If you’d like to purchase a mask, the
best way to get in touch with Jernigan is by searching her name via Facebook and sending her a message. She responds to people in the order that they message her. Unless you live out-of-state or are part of a vulnerable demographic, masks are pick-up only
Photo courtesy of Justine Jernigan
Jernigan is preparing to open her salon, The Beauty Suite PGH in Troy Hill, following the COVID-19 pandemic. from her residence in Bellevue. The Beauty Suite PGH, Jernigan says, is “ready to rock and roll,” as soon as businesses are able to reopen. To stay updated on The Beauty Suite PGH, visit this link: https://www.facebook.com/The-BeautySuite-Pgh-106528247419864. n
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District 1 News Cont'd
Continued from Page 4 of unemployment assistance. This extra $600 per week, along with your base unemployment compensation, is intended to replace the average weekly salary of an American worker. In ordinary circumstances, unemployment compensation does not replace an unemployed worker’s full weekly income. It is only meant to ensure the purchase of essential goods and services. The low payment is intended to motivate the search for a job that pays more. In a pandemic, when looking for work is both futile and dangerous, this logic does not apply. If you qualify for this extra $600 per week, all you have to do is keep filing biweekly claims—your unemployment benefit will be automatically updated. I know that applying for unemployment compensation can be confusing and frustrating, and many proud, hardworking Northsiders never imagined finding themselves in this situation. My office is ready to help you navigate all of these applications. If you have any questions, concerns, or stories about your experience obtaining unemployment assistance, please let me know at 412-255-2135, email my office at district1@pittsburghpa.gov, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. We look forward to hearing from all of you. Stay home, stop the spread, and save lives! Bobby Wilson Councilman, District 1 n
The Northside Chronicle
May 2020
“Tour de Quarantine” the brainchild of Pittsburgh cycling commentator By Ashlee Green Coronavirus may have put professional cycling on hold indefinitely, but thanks to Pittsburgher Brad Sohner,
Sohner, a sports commentator, TV producer, and recreational and commuter cyclist who lives Downtown, said in an email that he noticed cycling fans were "pretty down and starving for race action”
Photo courtesy of Brad Sohner
Brad Sohner, left, a sports commentator and TV producer in Pittsburgh, created a bicycle tour spoof called "Tour de Quarantine" that he films and provides commentary on from his home window. fans of the sport can once again get their kicks.
due to COVID-19-related cancellations, and one day, while he was rewatching old
races on TV, he had an idea. He started casually filming bike riders on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, across the river from his window, then added some of his own commentary. With that, Tour de Quarantine was born. "It was originally just my voice and video, but I found myself with enough time on my hands to... add graphics, sound effects, and replay," Sohner said. "It sort of expanded from the original idea and took on a life of its own." Sohner, who has called races such as USA Cycling's Cyclocross National Championships, COSI Sports' Tour of China, and Medalist Sports' Tour of California, said that while he "[tries] to get jokes in when [he] can" during his commentating gigs, "... it's not always possible, especially on bigger shows." "Tour de Quarantine was definitely a deviation from my normal commentating style, but it was a lot of fun to try something new," he said. "No matter what we're working on, the job is always to entertain, and I thought cycling fans could use some jokes during a tough time." Sohner's first video in the series, "Tour de Quarantine Stage 1," already has close See Quarantine, Page 10
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The Northside Chronicle
May 2020
Page 7
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tractors, but Payne says many people still don’t make them. Because of this, they can be charged interest as a penalty by the IRS. These payments can be made online through the IRS website. “An accountant can help suggest how much to put into it at a time,” Payne says. She also mentions how important it is to watch how much independent contractors are
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Can you lend a hand? Allegheny Elks Lodge #339’s
YELLOW GLOVE PROJECT
Allegheny Elks Lodge would like YOUR help keeping our Yellow Glove Project going strong and assisting our neighbors via the Northside Community Food Pantry.
Photo by Raffaele DiLullo for the Northside Community Development Fund
Even though the filing deadline has been extended until July 15, Antoinette Payne, owner of M&A Tax in Observatory Hill, is making sure community members are on top of their income tax returns.
Antoinette Payne is making sure her community members are on top of theirs. Payne opened M&A Tax Accounting & Notary Services at 3866 Baytree St. in Observatory Hill after previously operatOverview: SNAP/Food Stamps do not cover personal and household cleaning/hygeine ing the business out of her home. By doing this, Payne says she’s increased her clientele products. Allegheny Elks Lodge provides these types of products to clients of the Community Food Pantry, and the volunteer labor to procure and pack them for distribution. base and has been able to give back to her community through consultation services. People who are independent contracMore information, and a way to donate online via PayPal or major credit/debit card, is tors, or self-employed, face a unique set of available at http://ygp.alleghenyelks.org. challenges during tax season, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. 100% of every dollar donated is used solely for the purchase of the items distributed. First of all, Payne says that a lot of Help us help the hundreds of Northside families who are in need of these supplies. independent contractors forget about writeAllegheny Elks is a 501(c)8 nonprofit corporation operating under the Lodge system. offs. All charitable donations are tax deductible per Internal Revenue Code 170(c)(4). “Mileage, meals, supplies, and home office deductions are all things they can write off on their taxes,” she says. Payne also recommends that independent contractors reduce the financial burden of tax season by making either monthly or quarterly IRS payments. This way, when tax day rolls around, they don’t owe as much Lodge #339 400 Cedar Ave. money all at one time. Quarterly payments Pittsburgh, PA 15212 are required by law for independent con(412) 321-1834
The Yellow Glove Project is funded by grants from the Elks National Foundation and is supplemented by community donations. Please help support this valuable program by visiting http://ygp.alleghenyelks.org.
paying into Social Security and Medicare. “What people really mess up on is that they aren’t paying into Social Security,” Payne says. “Just pay your taxes. A lot of people with these 1099s get comfortable with their money and that’s not the reality.” Payne warns that if people who are self-employed don’t pay enough into their Social Security now, it could be harmful to them later in their lives. With the rollout of SBA disaster loans in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Payne is seeing many disorganized small business owners flock to her door. She recommends that small business owners get their financials, such as balance sheets, cash flow statements, and profit and loss statements, in order as soon as they can, because eventually, they’ll be needed. Her clients are also calling with questions about their stimulus checks. The first of these funds have already been deposited, but a small portion of them have been mistakenly sent to clients’ temporary accounts See Taxes, Page 24
Page 8
The Northside Chronicle
May 2020
Entrepreneurs keep longtime sign maker busy
From Signs, Page 1 member of Warren’s family. A history of resilience A.E. Jones Sign Co. has had hundreds of customers throughout its history, but most of Warren’s current business comes from three industries in particular, popular among modern consumers. “We have a joke in the sign industry: it’s pets, hair, pizza. Those are the big three,” he says. Of course, not many new businesses in those industries, or any industries, really, are opening right now. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put all non-essential business on pause, while some businesses deemed essential have had to lay off workers or outright close as consumers stay home for their health and safety. The U.S. economy lost more than 700,000 jobs in March of this year alone, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The International Sign Association, which advocates for the sign, graphics, and visual communications industry, says it is currently working to ensure that the sign industry is recognized as providing an essential service in every state. Warren says he’s uncertain if Pennsylvania counts his sign shop as an essential business, though he has made the decision to close anyway following the shutdown. Besides being unsure about how much
business he could get, he also wants to be careful when it comes to people’s health. “The first and main thing is the safety of everyone,” he says. “I don’t want people running in and out of [the shop] like it's a beehive and being exposed.”
the Steel Crisis. As mills began shutting down and laying off hundreds of thousands of people, other industries dependent on steel, such as railroads and canal transportation, also suffered. With more commercial businesses
Photo by Janine Faust
Warren Jones in his workshop in Historic Deutschtown. Photos on the wall display the four generations of A.E. Jones Sign Co.'s family ownership. This isn’t the first time A.E. Jones Sign Co. has had to weather a major economic downturn. The company survived the Great Depression, and in the 1970s and 80s, Warren and his father, William, the son of A.E. Jones Sr., saw the family’s business through
closing rather than opening at that time, the A.E. Jones Sign Co. had to lay off most of their workers. William was able to keep the shop afloat by channeling its resources into real estate signage. “Everything was going up for sale,”
Warren says. “Every realtor wanted ‘For Sale’ signs.” Warren says he considers the circumstances of the current shutdown to be different from the Steel Crisis in one significant respect. Instead of just slowing down, everything’s come to a standstill. “Back then it was slow, but you could go out and scratch around,” he says. Still, Warren is confident A.E. Jones Sign Co. will be able to pick up right where it left off when the COVID-19 shutdown ends. He continues to get orders from entrepreneurs, for example, who are using their newfound free time to see what needs sprucing up. “They’re saying, ‘Well, when you’re ready to go, this, that needs done,’” he says. Workshop made of memories Warren, a cordial, graying North Hills resident who likes to keep his hands occupied, has worked by himself for years now. He’s able to finish most projects in only a few hours using the modern-day machinery arranged in his spacious, cluttered workshop. The workshop takes up most of the company’s space on Tripoli, but there’s also parking and storage areas. Warren spends most of his time here. “Within one or two days I can be backed up [with] four or five days of work,” he says. “I've eliminated a website because See Signs, Page 21
The Northside Chronicle
May 2020
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Available on Saturday, May 9th Now www.BreadWorksPgh.com Taking Pre-Orders, Call Today! 2110 Brighton Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15212 | (412) 231-7555
Page 9
Deutschtown Music Festival organizers cancel over COVID-19 concerns By Janine Faust The Deutschtown Music Festival, a program of the Northside Leadership Conference, has been cancelled this year due to concerns about the COVID-19
decided to translate the neighborhood’s existing music scene into a music festival. The original festival featured around 40 bands performing on one day across multiple venues. Music lovers came from all over Pittsburgh and the event inspired
Serving Coffee, Tea and Specialty Drinks Rotating Breakfast & Lunch Menu Handmade sweets treats and chocolates. Enjoy works of art from local artists in a cafe for the community to gather.
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Chip & The Charge Ups performing on the Skyline Stage at the 2019 Deutschtown Music Festival. Organizers have cancelled the annual arts and musical festival this year, citing concerns about the health of attendees, performers, and staff. pandemic, organizers announced on April 6. Cody Walters and Ben Soltesz, co-founders of the festival, said in a statement that the decision was made to protect the health of the festival’s fans, musicians, and venue operators. “We love our neighbors and feel that cancelling at this time, even though it tears us apart to do so, is the wisest decision to make,” Soltesz said. “Just know that we will be back next year in July 2021 with a new and improved festival that regional and national music lovers have come to expect and appreciate.” The free, annual three-day music and arts celebration grew out of bar crawls Cody Walters hosted in 2011 and 2012 to promote local bars and musicians. The first official Deutschtown Music Festival was hosted in 2013, when organizers
several local businesses such as Max’s Allegheny Tavern to add live music to their weekly schedules. The most recent festival, held in July 2019 in Allegheny Commons, hosted more than 400 musical acts across about 40 indoor and outdoor venues, along with children’s activities and local food vendors. Tens of thousands of people attended performances over the span of three days. This year’s celebration was originally scheduled for July 17-19, however, a U.S. federal response plan predicts that the coronavirus outbreak could last up to 18 months. “Please stay safe and thank the heroes who deliver the goods, stock the shelves, check out your groceries, and especially the first responders and medical professionals who keep us healthy and safe during these trying times,” Walters said. n
Page 10
The Northside Chronicle
Sohner: "Sometimes the internet can be a good, positive place"
From Quarantine, Page 8 to 100 thousand views on YouTube. He said the response blew him away, and while he initially intended to make just one video, he knew he couldn't stop there. "People have reached out from all over the world with really nice messages," he
May 2020
Neighbor gardens with The Northside Chronicle
said. "It's been kind of an interesting reminder that sometimes the internet can be a good, positive place." Sohner's planning a new tour soon, and on the hunt for different race locations. "I think most people are tired of the view from my window," he said. "I know I am."
Screen capture courtesy of Brad Sohner
A screenshot from Sohner’s video for stage one of the "Tour de Quarantine" shows “Guy in Orange” and “Lady on the E-Bike” in the “final kilometer” of the parody race. n
Photos courtesy of Jeff Honnold
The Northside Chronicle is made from recycled newsprint and soy-based ink. After he reads his copy, Troy Hill resident Jeff Honnold uses it for mulch between rows in his garden: He's growing pea and radish seedlings. n
Health & Wellness Guide 2020 FREE
Professional tips for cleaning, mental health, and pet enrichment ideas
Northside Featured health products, services and more Northside Covid-19 Resource Guide for finding assistance and open Northside businesses
Page 12
Photo courtesy of Aleksandar Pasaric, pexels.com
Cleaning protocols for Coronavirus By Tim Maloney, owner of Dirt Doctors Cleaning Services There is much to learn about the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Based on what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published about the virus and about similar coronaviruses that cause SARS and MERS, the spread from person-to-person happens most frequently among close contacts, or within about six feet. This type of transmission occurs via respiratory droplets, but disease transmission via infectious aerosols is currently uncertain. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to persons from surfaces contaminated with the virus has not been documented. Transmission of coronavirus in general occurs much more commonly through respiratory droplets than through fomites. Current evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces made from a variety of materials. Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in community settings. The Building Safety Measures signed by the Secretary of Pennsylvania’s Department of Health on April 6, 2020 state: “Cleaning, disinfecting, and other maintenance and security services performed by building service employees are critical to protecting the public health by reducing COVID-19 infections in the commonwealth. Based upon the manner of COVID-19’s spread in the commonwealth and in the world, and its danger to Pennsylvanians, I have determined that the appropriate disease control measure is the direction of building safety measures as outlined in this order to prevent and control the spread of disease.” New protocol includes: · Cleaning and disinfecting hightouch areas that are accessible to customers, tenants, and other individuals. · Ensuring the building has enough employees to perform cleaning duties effectively.
The Northside Chronicle - Health & Wellness Guide 2020 Dirt Doctors Cleaning Services quickly put these protocols in place after the virus began to spread in Western Pennsylvania and the Pittsburgh area. Hopefully, by the time you are reading this article the SARS -CoV-2 virus has reached its peak in our area and we are well under way to containing the virus. Even after it has been contained, we believe it will be necessary to keep these protocols in place for weeks or months to help ensure the virus does not continue to spread. If you have any questions or would like to hire a professional service, we would be happy to help. Call 412-726-0800 or email us at info@ dirtdoctorscleaning.com.
Photo courtesy of Cottonbro, pexels.com
Health Anxiety during a Pandemic By Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh "Health anxiety" is a term that identifies the cluster of behaviors around the physical body and its processes: specifically, a preoccupation with preventing or experiencing disease or illness. Some of its symptoms are symptom checking, frequent trips to the doctor office, seeking reassurance that you are not dying or gravely ill. These are certainly frightening times, as we are facing a highly contagious, potent, and lethal virus for which no vaccine nor treatment currently exists. Yet, as with all things, the way that we encounter our fear and the way that we manage the new realities has a measurable impact on our well-being and adjustment. It is worth mentioning that multiple forms of anxiety are being inflamed, from health anxiety to economic anxiety. While most of us can relate to the fear of infection with the novel coronavirus, for anyone who is diagnosed as a hypochondriac, their health anxiety symptoms are likely even more inflamed. The best that we can do is focus on what exactly we can control. By focusing on the sources of our own ability to affect change, we find our grace, poise, patience, and empowerment. Here are the best tips our wellness experts could compile to manage health and wellness during this pandemic:
- Social distancing works. Do it. It truly is one of the best ways that we can stop the spread and damaging effects of this virus. There are a lot of exciting events and opportunities that have been suspended and even canceled. Accept this with grace, for taking such drastic measurements too means the dangers are extremely potent. Try to find the unseen benefit in social distancing: Use the time to take up a project, relax, and spend time with loved ones. - Use the extra time that you may have to focus on caring for your body, nourishing yourself with a healthy diet and lots of water, and getting in exercise are some of the best ways we can strengthen our minds, bodies, and immune systems. - Remember, not every cough or sneeze in yourself and others is necessarily related to the pandemic. If you do have any of the symptoms, as indicated by the CDC, you should follow their guidelines for gaining treatment and a diagnosis. - Keep your thoughts healthy. Be cautious of what you consume with your thoughts. Do not invest too much time in social media or news outlets that sensationalize. Generally, these places can create more tension and stress which we should all be focusing on limiting right now. - Try not to catastrophize. Instead, think measured thoughts. It is easy to go into the deep state of fear and hysterics. Notice when you are feeling a high degree of anxiety and work through it with deep breathing and stress reduction techniques. Keep in mind that the recovery of our bodies and civilization is more than likely, so do your best to remind yourself and others of this reality. - Be mindful to take in non-coronavirus information regularly. You do have the ability to choose what you take in: Do a meditation with positive affirmations, read a book, or even watch Netflix when you are noticing that you have seen enough of the "c-word" for one day. You brain and body will thank you for switching it up. - And, as we all know, wash those hands! This is the medical advice that has every good citizen marching off to the toilet paper aisle at their local Costco, only to find that everyone else seems to have beat them to it. Hand washing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds at a time is proven to remove viruses from our skin and reduce the spread of them. This, folks, is what we have that we can do while we wait for the most vicious winds of this storm to
April 2020 pass. Until there is a proven vaccine, we can focus here and now, on ourselves, on our breathing, and on caring for ourselves and those around us. Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh offers in-person and online counseling options with licensed professional counselors, therapists, and highly skilled wellness professionals. Visit counselingwellnesspgh.com for more information.
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C W
a i V Dr. Yu and Cindy Loughman, in exclusive video. a e North Side Christian t Health Center now operat- w ing 'Coronavirus Response • s Line' c c By Ashlee Green p • Patients can call the facility's b main line and talk to medical providers K who will help determine how sever their w symptoms are. • North Side Christian Health b Center (NSCHC) is now operating a ‘coronavirus response line’ out of their main location in Historic Deutschtown. NSCHC is encouraging Northsiders to call their facility’s main line with questions related to coronavirus. Medical providers at NSCHC can help discern if your symptoms are specific to coronavirus and if they are serious enough to require emergency room care. To call the response line, dial 412-321-4001, then press the star key. Starting today, NSCHC has access to limited coronavirus tests. Tests will be offered to patients on a caseby-case basis and will be administered outside of the clinic with patients remaining in their cars. A tent may be set up in the future for people without access to a vehicle. NSCHC accepts all patients regardless of insurance and ability to pay. In an exclusive video for The Northside Chronicle, NSCHC Medical Director Dr. Matthew Yu and Executive Director Cindy Loughman explain the difference between mild and severe symptoms as well as how they’re keeping their staff and patients safe. Watch it online at https://www. thenorthsidechronicle.com/ north-side-christian-health-center-now-operating-coronavirus-response-line/
April 2020
Photo courtesy of Imoortal Status, pexels.com
Pet enrichment tips during 'Stay-at-home' order' Courtesy of Joe Thornton, owner of Wagsburgh Enrichment means providing animals with a daily environment that is varied, interesting, and stimulating. Variety in the environment gives the animals the opportunity to think and to explore their space. Below are some easy activities that you can use to provide your pet with that much need stimulation. • Egg Cartons – Place treats in some or all the cups. To make more challenging rubber band the egg carton closed or cut in half and stack like a puzzle. • Wrapped boxes – take empty boxes (cereal, crackers, shoe, cookies, Kleenex, etc) and put treats inside and wrap it with available paper. • Bottle party – a box filled with bottles or balls or paper or even foam
The Northside Chronicle - Health & Wellness Guide 2020
cups. Throw in treats and dog digs them out or dumps the box to earn treats. • Paper bags – take lunch bags or paper grocery bags and throw in some treats and fold close the top and give to dog to tear and dig or rip open. • Rolls in a box/Loaf Pan – Take toilet paper rolls and place in a box or loaf pan. Add treats into the tubes. Dog digs out, removes each roll or dumps container to get treats. • Toilet paper rolls – fold in one end, add treats, fold in other end to create a puzzle. • Scent Trail: Lay out a trail of tiny treats, Hansel and Gretel style. • Blowing bubbles – can provide something interesting and new to look at. • Do nothing, relaxation game – place dog on a blanket. As soon as the dog lies down, pet him and say “good.” Only pet for a minute and stop if the dog gets up again. If the dog continues to relax, occasionally reach down and pet him but do not continuously pet the dog. Session to last 10 minutes. • Reading and Relaxing – read aloud for 15 – 30 minutes. • Puzzle Games – Kongs, Wobblers, Treat Dispensing Balls, Snuffle Mat, Slow Feeders • Frozen Enrichment Container – take a left over container and smear peanut butter on the bottom and sides, sprinkle in some kibble and/or treats
and even add a toy, cover with water or low sodium broth then place on the lid and freeze. Article provided by Lisa Bartel, CPDT-KA, of Success Just Clicks, Dog Training Center. Read the full article at https://www.wagspgh.com/tips/enrichment-matters/
Photo courtesy of Burst, pexels.com
A Place To Start: be well and stay well An initiative of Allegheny General Hospital and the Northside Leadership Conference to promote Health and Wellness in the Northside Community The Northside Farmer’s Market is not only a great place to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheese from local farmers, but to learn how to live a healthy lifestyle, specifically in the Northside. “A Place to Start” provides an opportunity to learn about
Page 13 the importance of yearly checkups, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and much more. City of Pittsburgh Farmers Markets are scheduled to open in June 2020. PLEASE NOTE: Markets are subject to federal and state guidelines regarding mass gatherings. Check the City of Pittsburgh website to confirm markets will open as scheduled. It can be difficult to start the path to a healthier lifestyle, “A Place to Start” helps Northside families to take that first step, whether that be walking more, eating more vegetables, or visiting the doctor each year. In addition, many are unaware of some of the great resources in the Northside, including the Northside Christian Health Center, Northside Food Pantry, and Propel Northside Community Wellness Center among others. Be on the lookout for the Northside Leadership Conference’s “A Place to Start” health outreach program at the farmer’s market this summer! We plan to offer a variety of health events ranging from chats with nurses to inclusive yoga to healthy food demonstrations. We are also closely monitoring COVID-19 restrictions and will make adjustments to our programming as needed. We are very excited to assist Northside families with adopting and adapting to a new healthy lifestyle in
816 Middle Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-321-4001 | www.nschc.org
Northside owned and operated, we guarantee your satisfaction with every house call and office visit!
Celebrating 25 years of caring for the Northside neighborhoods Available Health Services:
On June 6th, we will kick off the series with yoga, didgeridoo, and Reiki meditation afterwards. A food truck will be on site. Where: Allegheny Commons Park When: Saturdays, June 6th- August 29th 10:30am
Trust Dirt Doctors for all of your cleaning and disinfecting needs. We are on the front lines battling Covid-19 to help keep our clients safe!
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Mental Health Matters.
All five of our centers are offering in person and online counseling options. Many insurance companies have waived copays and deductibles for online counseling. Call us at 412-322-2129 to schedule your appointment for therapy, marriage, or family counseling.
www.counselingwellnesspgh.com
• • • • • • •
Pediatrics Adult Medical Care Women’s Health Dental Family Planning Addiction Medicine Mental Health
No one turned away for inability to pay
COVID-19 Response Line 412-321-4001 * We are a nonprofit community health center providing whole person care that addresses the physical, psychological, socioeconomic and spiritual needs of our patients.
Page 14 2020! During this time, it is important to stay safe and healthy, and we are committed to providing helpful resources to the Northside Community. Visit www.pittsburghnorthside.com for updates on scheduling. Follow us on Facebook: @PittsburghsNorthside, Twitter: @PGHNorthside, and Instagram: @NorthsideLC for updates as well!
Photo courtesy of Oleg Magni, pexels.com
North Side 'Buddy' System launched for vulnerable neighbors By NSC Staff
The Northside Chronicle - Health & Wellness Guide 2020 The Northside Chronicle and Northside Leadership Conference's Allegheny General Hospital Partnership create a sign-up for for neighbors to find or be a "Buddy". The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released an “Interim Guidance” resource “to help communityand faith-based organizations (CFBOs), whose members may include vulnerable populations, plan for community transmission of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)” in their communities. The CDC recommends establishing “buddy” systems to help hard-to-reach and vulnerable neighbors stay connected to related news and services. “Special consideration should be given to communicating risk to vulnerable populations in your community, including older adults and others with access and functional needs. Encourage those you serve to seek out a “buddy” who will check on and help care for them if they get sick.” The Northside "Buddy" System encourages residents to seek a "buddy" who will check on and help care for them if they are sick, get sick, or unable to safely
leave their homes during this time. Some services needed and/or offered include, check-in by phone, shopping/delivery/pick-up essentials, cooking a meal, grass cutting, dog walking, access to face masks, digitally checking in with school children to help with home among others. For residents who don't know how to seek out a "buddy," this form will try to help match members of vulnerable populations to willing community volunteers who can provide check-ins by phone, share informational resources, and in special situations may be able to help with services such as shopping, picking up/delivering medicine, cooking a meal, etc. We will match people based on services needed/offered and location.
May 2020
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Follow us on Instagram & Facebook to stay informed We have Fido & Fluffy protected! $5.00 OFF Seresto collars (dog or cat) K9 Advantix II, 4 pack (dog) Advantage II, 4 pack (cat) May 1st thru May 31st Additional $5 OFF mail-in rebates available The Northside Chronicle team is deeply appreciative of our community support and wish all of our Northside neighbors well. We'd also like to personally thank our new Townhall Subscribers: Bruce Ledewitz Symmetric Designs
May 2020
The Northside Coronavirus Resource Guide Compiled in partnership with The Northside Chronicle, North Side/ Shore Chamber of Commerce, and the Northside Leadership Conference. For our full list of resources, visit www.thenorthsidechronicle.com. Please send updates and suggestions to editor@thenorthsidechronicle. com. HOSPITALS, HEALTHCARE CENTERS, PHARMACIES: Allegheny General Hospital Tuesday, April 14, Allegheny Health Network launched a COVID testing site at 1004 Arch St. (former Divine Providence Hospital). It’s open daily from 9AM to 5PM, and patients must have a prescription from an Allegheny Health Network-affiliated doctor. On-demand and walk-up testing are not available. Patients experiencing flulike symptoms can obtain a prescription for a COVID-19 test by calling their doctor’s office, scheduling a visit via video, or calling AHN’s on-call nursing line, open 24/7, at 412-Nurse4U. Once your test is ordered, you will be contacted directly by a member of AHN’s staff to set up an appointment for the test collection. Find more information about AHN’s response to COVID-19 at www.ahn.org/coronavirus. Visitation restrictions: Starting at 7 p.m. on March 19, Allegheny Health Network temporarily suspended all patient visitations at its affiliated hospitals, outpatient clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers, according to a press release. Patients in the following four areas or circumstances are the exception, and are allowed two visitors at a time: Labor and Delivery, Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU), Pediatrics, and End of Life Care. These people will still be screened before entering the facility with these questions: Have you traveled domestically or internationally in the last 14 days? Do you have a cough or fever? Those who answer yes to either question will not be allowed to enter the facility. Hospital visitation hours have been restricted to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Only visitors 18 years of age and up are permitted. Updated 4/21/2020 Waltmire Pharmacy All customers must wear masks. Those with flu-like symptoms are encouraged not to enter the pharmacy. Instead, have a family member or friend who is healthy pick up your prescription. Free delivery, "no contact" delivery of anything in the store (prescription delivered to a safe place
The Northside Chronicle - Health & Wellness Guide 2020
Page 15
such as a mailbox), and parking lot pickup is available on weekdays. Open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Closed on Sundays. Call the store at 412-323-1801 for more information. Updates regarding their services can be found on their Facebook page. Updated 4/21/2020 North Side Christian Health Center Available for urgent medical concerns, including sick visits for both new and established patients. Telephone consultations with providers are available and there's a coronavirus response line for patients to speak to a provider directly about any concerns and symptoms. Patients are accepted regardless of their ability to pay and for all health insurance types. Covid-19 testing now available on a case-by-case basis. Call the clinic at (412) 321-4001 for more information. Starting 3/23, hours of operation will be Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5PM at both locations: Historic Deutschtown, 816 Middle St., and Northview Heights, 525 Mt. Pleasant Rd. Patient Portal can be found at: https://mycw4.eclinicalweb.com/ nsch/jsp/100mp/login_otp.jsp. Updated 4/21/2020 Vitalant Those who are feeling healthy and eligible to donate blood can sign up to do so online, by calling 412.209.7000, or through the Vitalant-Pittsburgh app. No walk-ins are accepted at this time. Updated hours at Pittsburgh locations can be found here: https://www.vitalant.org/Engage/Engage-1/ Events/Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh/Extended-Hours-at-Donation-Centers.aspx The closest donation sites to the Northside are the McKnight North Professional Center, 9365 McKnight Road, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 in the North Hills, or Downtown Pittsburgh’s Law & Finance Building, 429 Fourth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Last updated 4/21/2020 APPRISE The APPRISE program helps senior community members better understand their affordable healthcare options and make informed choices. In Allegheny County, this Pennsylvania state program is operated by Wesley Family Services and the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. Counselors help community members with concerns about Medicare, Medicaid, Extra Help, PACE, and the Pennsylvania Patient Assistance Program. Counselors also help individuals compare insurance options, plan for long term living and obtain supplemental coverage that fits their budget. To be eligible, clients must qualify for Medicare coverage. The service is free and no previous insurance is necessary. APPRISE can assist clients over the phone at 412661-1438 and via email. Visit https://wfspa. org/service/apprise/ for more information. Updated 4/21/2020 Choice Restorative Medicine Choice Restorative Medicine, which offers chiropractic care, restorative medicine, and esthetics, is still open for acute and
Images courtesy of and created by Northside Leadership Conference, updated 4/21
symptomatic patients on a reduced schedule. New and current patients can speak to a doctor or receive more information by calling 412-364-9699. Updated 4/21/2020 Mental Health Services The Pennsylvania Department of Health has a useful list of mental health resources in PA. Find it here: https://www.dhs. pa.gov/Services/Mental-Health-In-PA/Pages/default.aspx Updated 4/21/2020
GROCERIES, TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY, FOOD BANKS: Groceries Tom Friday's Market No longer taking orders over the phone for pick up or delivery. Updated hours as of March 18: Sunday - Closed; Monday Closed; Tuesday - 9-5 (closed 12pm-1pm); Wednesday 9-5 (closed 12pm-1pm); Thursday 9-5 (closed 12pm-1pm); Friday 9-5
(closed 12pm-1pm); Saturday 9-5 (closed 12pm-1pm). PLEASE NOTE: Store closes every day from 12pm -1pm to clean and sanitize the store and to restock the case and shelves. Updated 4/21/2020 Giant Eagle Store has installed plexiglass dividers to separate customers and staff. Not allowing reusable bags in response to coronavirus. Operating hours are temporarily altered across all Giant Eagle supermarkets effective Sunday, March 15. Standalone GetGo sites will continue operating under regular business hours. Operating hours for Giant Eagle and Market District supermarkets will be 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Adjacent GetGo locations will reflect supermarket hours. Free curbside grocery pickup and low-cost delivery services hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Click here to find the nearest curbside site. Text "SUPPORT" TO 737587 to sign up for updates related to coronavirus from Giant Eagle. Updated 4/21/2020 Kuhn's Quality Food Market on Highwood Temporary new hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Special shopping hours for seniors 60+ and people who are immunocompromised available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7-8 a.m., one hour before store opens to the public. Updated 4/21/2020
Page 16 Scratch Food & Beverage According to their website, Scratch is “no longer operating as a restaurant.” Instead, you can order grocery items, prepared food, beverages, household items, and personal care items for pick up through their website at www.scratchfoodbev.com. Many items are free. To order and schedule a pickup, visit the website and click the “Order” tab, call 412-251-0822, or email scratchfbpgh@ gmail.com. They are also taking delivery orders from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., take-out orders from 10 a.m. to midnight, and occasional “Crock Pot Package” meal kits. Each time you buy a meal kit, according to Scratch’s Facebook page, another one will be donated to a family in need. Delivery is free on Fridays. PLEASE NOTE: All orders are considered pending until staff calls you to confirm. Only debit and credit cards are acceptable forms of payment at this time; ACCESS payments may be accepted in the future. Check Scratch’s Facebook page for updates at www.facebook.com/ scratchpgh/ Updated 4/21/2020
The Northside Chronicle - Health & Wellness Guide 2020
dated 4/21/2020
The Family Dollar Located at 2020 Spring Garden Ave. in Spring Garden. Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Call 412-322-4085 for more information. Updated 4/21/2020 Breadworks Store hours are Monday through Friday, 8 to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 8 to 2 p.m.; Sunday,
to help, contact 412-345-7420 or ISOS@ wfspa.org. Updated 4/21/2020
Food Banks Northside Common Ministries Food Pantry Now offering curbside service via a new Facebook page called “NCM Food Pantry Curbside Service Orders” at https://www. facebook.com/NCM-Food-Pantry-Curb-
May 2020
Kitchen of Grace & Cafe on the Corner Now offering “Feed Our Community - Free Lunch for Our Children.” Free lunches for children available Tuesday through Friday, noon to 2 p.m. Located at 2700 Shadeland Ave. Updated 4/22/2020 In Service of Seniors: Pittsburgh program Individuals in Allegheny County over the age of 60 are eligible for free food pantry and grocery delivery by program volunteers. For more information or to volunteer to help, contact 412-345-7420 or ISOS@ wfspa.org. Updated 4/21/2020
SCHOOLS & EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS Pittsburgh Public Schools Per Governor Wolf’s order, all schools in the commonwealth closed through the end of the school year. Remote “at home” instruction for students will begin after Spring Break. All athletics and events, as well as all Early Head Start, PreK, and Center programs also closed during this time. Via Twitter: "For students that depend on our school breakfast and lunch program, Grab and Go meals will be available at all 54 school locations from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Monday through Friday. Students are instructed to go to the school location closest to their home." All building permits canceled, effective Monday, March 16, 2020. All-City Arts activities, musicals postponed indefinitely. School Board meetings will be conducted virtually: View meeting calendar and agendas at https:// go.boarddocs.com/pa/pghboe/Board.nsf/ Public#807. Follow updates on coronavirus preparation in Pittsburgh Public Schools here: https://www.pghschools.org/coronavirus Updated 4/22/2020
Mayfly Market & Deli Updated hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Grocery and deli orders now available to fulfill over the phone during store hours or by email at info@mayflypgh.org for in-store, front-door pickup. Be sure that email orders include your name, phone number, and a detailed list of items you want, and place them by midnight to have your order processed by the next day. A staff member will call you when your order is prepared and ready to be processed. You can process your payment via credit card over the phone. A current inventory of the store’s items can be found online. Call 412-3221300 or visit www.mayflypgh.com/ and click the “Deli” tab for more information. Updated 4/21/2020 Wagsburgh Northside’s only pet store is now open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All in-store customers required to wear masks. Curbside pickups also available. To place a curbside pickup order, email joe@wagspgh.org or call 412-9043459 at least 24 hours before you want to pick it up. Include your full name and phone number, a detailed list of the items you want (i.e. brand, flavor, package size, and quantities of each), and your preferred pickup day. A staff member will contact you to confirm your order. Credit card payments are taken over the phone. Call when you arrive at the store, and your items will be brought to your car. Updated 4/21/2020
4/21/2020
Images courtesy of and created by Northside Leadership Conference, updated 3/30
Victoria’s Dairy Located at 1716 Lowrie St. in Troy Hill. Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Call 412231-6262 for more information. Updated 4/21/2020
CLOSED. There are two ways to get your orders via curbside delivery: 1. Call 412231-7555, select option #2, and place your order with staff. Staff will then fill your order and bring it to your car. You can pay over the phone with a credit card or upon pickup with cash. 2. Order online at https:// breadworks.hrpos.heartland.us/. Please note when you plan to pick up your order and a description of your car. When you arrive to pick up your order, call 412-231-7555, select option #2, and tell staff the number of the parking spot you’re in. Staff will then deliver your order to your car. For more information, visit www.breadworkspgh. com. Updated 4/21/2020
The Unimart Located at 1601 Lowrie St. in Troy Hill. Open Sunday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Saturday 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. Call 412-321-3667 for more information. Up-
In Service of Seniors: Pittsburgh program Individuals in Allegheny County over the age of 60 are eligible for free food pantry and grocery delivery by program volunteers. For more information or to volunteer
side-Service-Orders-109103260707932/. Check the Facebook page regularly: When the curbside order option is open for the day, directions for how to order will be posted on the page. All orders are placed through the Facebook Messenger of the aforementioned Facebook page. New food pantry clients: Be sure to bring proof that you live in the zip codes of 15212,15214,or 15233 when you pick up your food order. You will also be asked to complete some paperwork. Updated 4/21/2020 412 Food Rescue Connecting extra food from canceled events to people who need it. Call 412277-3831 or visit this website: https:// 412foodrescue.org/take-action/donate-food/ to electronically submit food donations. For general inquiries, call 412-407-5287 or email info@412foodrescue.org. Updated
Sarah Heinz House Closed for regular programming through April 30, 2020. Offering virtual programs via Facebook through this group: https:// www.facebook.com/groups/SHHVirtualPrograms/. A parental consent form must be filled out before children can participate. Via email: "Because we are committed to the most vulnerable population that we serve, we will continue to offer our daily food service to youth and teen members of Sarah Heinz House who need to receive this service.” Building will remain closed, but from Monday through Friday between 4:30 and 6 p.m., boxed dinners will be available for pick-up only at the turnaround circle near the building's front entrance. Updated 4/22/2020 Children's Museum of Pittsburgh and MuseumLab Temporarily closed starting end of business day on Friday, March 13, via a press release. All areas of the museum will be deep cleaned at this time and the majority of the staff will begin working remotely. Field trips, events, and weddings will either be rescheduled or refunded. Online educa-
May 2020 tional resources for children and families are available at www.pittsburghkids.org. Updated 4/22/2020 Mattress Factory Museum Closed temporarily starting Saturday, March 14. All public programs during this time are canceled. Online resources including virtual exhibit tours, “Artists In Their Own Words,” and films from the Greer Lankton archive are available here: https:// mattress.org/virtual. Updated 4/22/2020 Carnegie Science Center This and all Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh are temporarily closed. All museum activities also canceled. Follow the museum on social media for their “THREE THINGS” series posted daily at 8 a.m.: “Something to read, something to watch, something to do!” Updated 4/22/2020 Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh All locations, including Allegheny and Woods Run, closed to the public indefinitely, effective Sunday, March 15. All fines for checked out items will be waived during this time. Programs, outreach, events and meeting room bookings canceled through May 31. The “Stay In & Read!” Challenge announced on 3/23/2020. Follow updates online here: https://www. carnegielibrary.org/coronavirus/. Updated 4/22/2020 Propel Northside Community Wellness Center Free store is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on select Saturdays. "We have an abundance of personal care items and fresh produce available to give away," according to an email from Carrie Barmen, Site Coordinator. Medical services at the Propel Northside Community Wellness Center have been suspended indefinitely, via Facebook. Visit https://www.facebook. com/PropelNorthsideWellness/ for updated information. Updated 4/22/2020 Providence Connections All center-based programming will remain closed through at least April 30. This includes child care and youth programs. Remote Family Support services are available: Call the Family Support Center at 412-766-6730 and Providence Connections at 412-766-3860. Northside families in need of diapers, formula, and wipes, call 412-766-3860, ext. 360. Updated 4/22/2020 PCTV Closed until further notice. All reservations for studios and cameras are canceled, and classes are postponed. Continue to submit your programming via file download, but submissions via DVD, flash drive, or hard drive are not accepted during this time. Latest updates available on the PCTV website: https://www.pctv21.org/. Updated 4/22/2020 City of Asylum Closed to the public and not offering public events. Restaurant closed; Bookstore closed for browsing, but website is open and the
The Northside Chronicle - Health & Wellness Guide 2020 entire inventory is available for purchase online. Now offering these specials during quarantine: For orders over $25, shipping is free, and by entering one of the following corresponding codes, 15% of the purchase can be donated to one of the following Northside organizations: Mattress Factory Museum: MATTRESS; Children's Museum Pittsburgh: CHILDREN; Light of Life Rescue Mission: LIGHTOFLIFE; Northside Community Food Pantry: FOODBANK. Updated 4/22/2020 National Aviary Closed to the public through at least April 30, 2020. Now offering distance learning initiatives, which include group learning called CyBird Learning and an interactive, affordable virtual program called Aviary After School, geared toward homeschooling, which takes place every Thursday at 3 p.m. Also available is the Aviary’s Education Corner with more learn-from-home activities: https://www.aviary.org/education-corner. Updated 4/22/2020 Light of Life As of March 17, 2020, North Avenue location is still open and serving meals; to-go meals are in the works. Expanded feeding time so people are eating in small groups; Disinfecting between each meal. COVID-19 “Task Force” created to monitor local, state, and federal guidelines daily and adjust protocols as needed. Clients getting temperature screened before entering. Those with elevated temperatures are advised to go to the hospital. Extended donation hours from Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Only two people at a time are allowed in the donation center. If you’d like to volunteer, email Jenny Deatrich at jdeatrich@lightoflife. org. Stay up to date via Light of Life’s COVID-19 webpage: www.lightoflife.org/ covid19/. Updated 4/22/2020 Pleasant Valley Men’s Shelter Overnight residents may stay in during the day and can receive lunch. Drop-in center open to people taking showers and doing laundry only (Monday through Friday). Take-out lunches will be offered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between noon and 1 p.m. Capacity will be limited to 20 persons per area. People may have to wait outside if capacity is exceeded. Visit Pleasant Valley’s website at http://www.ncmin. org/pleasant-valley-mens-shelter for more information or call 412-323-1163. Updated 4/22/2020
NORTHSIDE BUSINESSES Minuteman Press Minuteman Press is open and printing and now offers curbside pickup. They also launched the “Bounce Back Pittsburgh” project for businesses to receive a free printed COVID-19 awareness and prevention posters and promotional listings on their website. Call 412-456-8222 or visit their website for more information: https:// bouncebackusa.minuteman.com/locations/ pa/pittsburgh20/ Updated 4/21/2020
Mr. Sign Mr. Sign is open for printing and offering curbside pickup. Call 412-264-4555 or visit https://www.mrsignpittsburgh.com/ for more information Updated 4/21/2020 Thistlesea Business Development Thistlesea, “A business coaching, strategy development, training, mergers & acquisitions, and business services company,” according to their website, is now offering two-hour virtual coaching sessions for all Northside Chamber members. Interested members can reach out to Terri at terri. hammond@thistlesea.com or 724-9351930 for more information. Updated 4/21/2020 Dirt Doctors Cleaning Services Dirt Doctors is now offering a disinfectant cleaning service to help prevent people coming into contact with the virus. In addition, they are also providing power washing services for exterior jobs. To schedule a cleaning, Contact Tim Maloney at 412-726-0800 or dirtdoctim@msn.com. Updated 4/21/2020 PERSONAL CARE & FITNESS SERVICES Pittsburgh Acupuncture & Massageworks Closed temporarily. Gift cards available online. https://www.pghacuandmassage. com/massage-and-bodywork Brooke Rockwell Hair Design Closed temporarily, but reopening soon per a 4/21/2020 blog post. Current appointments will be rescheduled. Upon reopening, no more than six people will be allowed in the salon at one time. Stations are more than six feet apart from one another. Reschedule your appointment if you are not feeling well; Appointments only, no walkins. Gift cards can be purchased online: squareup.com/gift/95KWB5WKQ99N1/ order. Updated 4/22/2020 Pearl Aesthetic Perfecting Studio Closed through April 30. Current appointments will be rescheduled. All Skinceuticals, Lunasea, and Karuna products are 20% off: Text your order to 412-952-6026; Contactless payment and pickup available. Check the website for updates: http:// www.pearlperfectingstudio.com/. Updated 4/22/2020 Updated 4/22/2020 California Cycle Path Temporarily closed. Monthly member contracts will be extended for the duration of closing. Now offering free, Instagram Live workouts and virtual, on-demand classes via the California Cycle Path app. When you register for a virtual class via the app, you’ll receive a link to the class in your email a half hour before it starts. Updated 4/22/2020 Physique Rx'd Temporarily closed. Offering free workout videos on Facebook. Visit https://www. facebook.com/Physiquerxd/ for more information. Updated 4/22/2020
Page 17 Allegheny YMCA Temporarily closed. Offering free, online workouts and services, including live childrens’ activities. Follow on Facebook for more information: https://www.facebook. com/AlleghenyYMCA. Updated 4/22/2020 Union Fitness Closed temporarily. At-home workout guides available via Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/unionfitnesspgh/ Email join@unionfitness.com to schedule a 20-minute call or video chat with a staff member. Updated 4/22/2020 AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES Lockhart Tire Located at 507 Lockhart St. in Historic Deutschtown. Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; by appointment only for Saturday; closed on Sunday. Call 412-322-4044 for more information. Updated on 4/22/2020 Leskowak Auto Center Located at 1707 Lowrie St. in Troy Hill, inside the Exxon Gas station. Open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; closed on Sundays. Call 412-321-5690 for more information. Updated 4/22/2020 BICYCLE SERVICES Bicycle Heaven Located in Chateau, this bicycle shop is open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for front door service only, including dropoff and pickup for repair service and bicycle or parts sales. Please call ahead: 412-7344034 and schedule an appointment. Unscheduled service and sales appointments must knock on the front door. Museum is currently closed to the public until further notice. To purchase bicycle parts and more online, visit bicycleheaven.org. Updated 4/22/2020 Bear Dog Bicycles Open by appointment only. For repairs or purchases, contact them via phone at 412-231-1790 or email them at nathan@ beardogbikes.com or peter@beardogbikes. com to set up a meeting time and they will do their best to meet your needs. Updated 4/22/2020 Healthy Ride Continues to be fully operational under the new stay-at-home order. Bikes and pay stations are regularly disinfected, but they still recommend washing your hands prior to riding and wearing gloves while riding to prevent the spread of COVID-19. For Healthy Ride’s safe practices and more information related to COVID-19, visit https://healthyridepgh. com/blog/2020/04/17/covid-19-updateapril-17-2020/. Updated 4/22/2020
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Is it decay, or is it trans- YINZBURGH! COMICS By Nils Hanczar formation?: An interview with photographer David Grim
Photo by David Grim
David Grim’s photo, “Desolation Bus Stop,” was featured on the cover of The Northside Chronicle’s April 2020 edition. Pittsburgh photographer David Grim, who shot The Northside Chronicle's April 2020 cover image, started taking pictures in his 20s with a Polaroid Land Camera. His street photography, he says, took off organically as a way for him to both capture what he saw on long, solitary walks and take a closer look at the residential areas surrounding him. In this interview with Grim, Northside Chronicle Managing Editor Ashlee Green finds out what draws the photographer to images of what he calls the "taint of humanity," his more recent fixation on abandoned shopping malls, and what ultimately drives his work. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. The Northside Chronicle: You referred to your cover photo for the April 2020 edition of The Northside Chronicle as “Desolation Bus Stop.” Much of your work explores the themes of desolation, disrepair, and decay. What draws you to this type of photography? David Grim: I think I’m drawn to this subject matter because I enjoy the sense of being by myself to explore and not be bothered. I am definitely interested in the way order breaks down in things: The textures of building materials as they warp and age can be fascinating. I like that these places have been touched by people for years and years, and yet those individuals made their mark, vanished, and left behind their patina. Maybe it’s the taint of humanity that I’m interested in.
NSC: Your style of photography ties in well with the way a lot of people are feeling right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Do you see a connection between what’s going on in front of your lens and with the attitudes of people in the Northside and the world at large at this time? DG: Maybe people are seeing the world the way I have preferred to display it for years. There are no people in the vast majority of my shots, but [people] have all left something behind that is visible. I guess those leavings are akin to the shedding of a disease, if one tends to take a dark look at things. I find blight and entropy oddly compelling. Who is to say whether something has “decayed” or merely transformed? NSC: Many of your photographs are centered around Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Have you always lived here? DG: I’ve been in Pittsburgh since I came here from Eastern Pennsylvania for my undergrad studies, and for a long time I never made it out of Oakland. The street photography I’ve been doing for a while now started organically. I found myself taking long solitary walks, and eventually I just wanted to capture the sense of some of what I saw. Then, I decided I wanted to examine all the places people lived around See Grim, Page 28
Visit our website: www.thenorthsidechronicle.com for news about Northside real estate, events, & more.
The Northside Chronicle - Homebuyer's Guide 2020
April 2020
Page 21
Sign painting a "great outlet" for visual people
From Signs, Page 8 I can't keep up with the work I'm getting.” Warren’s process starts at the com-
substrate. He also has a special printer for vinyl letters that he uses to make wraps for trucks or windows — including the golden
summer people come in by the hoard to buy them.” A.E. Jones Sign Co. has been making the transom numbers since the 1970s, when
Photo by Janine Faust
Warren Jones flips through a booklet of gold leaf, which the shop used in the early 20th century.
puters near the entrance of his workshop. Customers typically send Warren their own art for their sign. Using Adobe software, he rasterizes the image, which converts it into pixels and tells the printers where to place colors. He determines how many times he wants the printer to “pass” over the image for saturation. Some sign companies print their sign graphics directly to substrate, meaning a surface such as plastic, metal, or vinyl. Warren, though, “prints to roll,” meaning the graphics go through a special laminator meant to protect the material from ultraviolet rays before he mounts them to a
Photo courtesy of Warren Jones
A picture hanging in the A.E. Jones Co. workshop shows a photograph from the shop's former home on Federal Street. house numbers with black outlines often seen glinting in transom windows in the Northside. “When I get a minute I'll make a couple dozen,” Warren says, peeling a golden number “2” from its vinyl substrate and holding it up against a backlight. “In the
it was hired to lay them in gold leaf on recently renovated row houses in Manchester. In the 1980s, its employees started hand cutting them in vinyl for general sales. These numbers, along with banners, decals, yard signs, wraps, and almost every other type of lettered sign possible, lay
heaped amongst the tools and work tables in Warren’s workshop. Family mementos and trinkets line the shelves and decorate the walls. Materials used by the shop in the early 20th century, such as booklets of gold leaf and squirrel and horse hair striper brushes, used to create elongated vertical or horizontal lines, are stored beneath the work tables. The sign maker as artist Tod Swormstedt, founder of the American Sign Museum in Cincinnati and an acquaintance of Warren’s, recalled how Warren once gave him a free bag of blue smaltz — coarse, colored glass that is crushed or powdered — to use in making vintage signs for the museum. “It was like gold,” Swormstedt says in a phone interview. “That stuff is not made anymore, it’s treasured by sign painters who are into old signs.” Being a sign maker, he says, was once equated with being a skilled artist. He described how there has always been a fine line between fine art and commercial art, and that plenty of fine artists got their start in sign painting. He cited Pittsburgh native Andy Warhol, who had learned about designing fonts and graphics while screen printing billboards. “[If] you’re a visual person, sign painting was a great outlet,” Swormstedt says. “Either honed in school or homespun.” See Signs, Page 22
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The Northside Chronicle - Homebuyer's Guide 2020
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April 2020
Company's namesake a hands-on businessman From Signs, Page 21 At the turn of the century, signs for advertisements and businesses, Warren explains, were painted directly onto the sides of buildings. Workers hung out of windows, slid up and down walls on pulleys, and scrambled up ladders to paint 18-foot letters in specific fonts and colors. A.E. Jones Sign Co. painted for everyone in Pittsburgh, from U.S. Steel mills to small local businesses. “We were walldogs,” Warren says. “Every building had lettering between the second and third floor and sometimes a band on top of the buildings.” Warren is the fourth person in his family to own the shop. Its roots trace back to his great-grandfather, artist, entrepreneur, and namesake Albert Eastwood Jones Sr. Warren and his cousin, Mark Jones — who, like most Jones family members, helped out in the sign shop as an adolescent — recalled what their relatives passed on to them about their great-grandfather. “A.E. Jones was an artist, he had artistic abilities… he could do the work himself when he first started,” Mark says in a phone interview. “He saw the niche to paint signs obviously with all the growth happening at the turn of the century.” When he began the A.E. Jones Sign Co. in 1897, “somewhere in the North Shore area” according to Warren, there were two parts to it — house painting and sign painting. Warren and Mark both described their great-grandfather as a hands-on entrepreneur who remained involved in the sign painting process even as his company started employing other people. Besides owning the sign company, Albert Sr. also operated two nickelodeons in the Northside for a time. The small, simple theaters, which charged five cents for admission, got their start in Pittsburgh in 1905 — around the same time the sign compa-
ny relocated to East North Avenue following a fire — and experienced a brief boom in popularity before larger, more modern movie theaters came along in the 1910s.
owner, Albert Ellis Jones Jr., or “Pappy Jones”— the one with the long arms — when they were young. The eldest son of Albert Sr., he took over in the 1940s and
Warren and Mark also described their grandfather as a community fixture who knew the plumber and the florist by name and, like Albert Sr., would barter with fellow tradesmen for jobs. “Whenever you had an issue in one of the trades, Pap knew the right guy,” Mark says. Sticking to tradition in times of change In 1930, the A.E. Jones Company had grown too big for its site on East North Avenue and moved to a larger space on 1313 Federal Street. Pittsburgh was still at the center of the U.S. steel industry at this time, and Mark described the shop’s years on Federal Street as its “peak.” “My dad swears we had a sign on every building between the 16th Street Bridge and down where the West End Bridge is,” Warren says.“All the buildings facing the river, we had signs on all of them.” In time, neon tubes, fluorescent tubes, and plastic signs all emerged on the market and became fairly popular, but Warren says the Jones family was determined to stick to traditional methods. Besides, they lacked the space and materials for making electric signs, and painting was what they knew. “The sign business is like the automoPhoto courtesy of Warren Jones tive business: Some people do mufflers and Albert Eastwood Jones Sr., the founder of A. E. Jones Sign Co., pictured here with his breaks, some people do auto body, some wife. He founded the company in 1897. people do tires,” Warren says. “We stuck with the hand lettering, the silkscreening Warren recalls being told that Albert ran a tight ship, often fretting about financ- part of it.” Sr. was “very professional” and always es and work output. While A.E. Jones Sign Co. was stickwore a suit with a bowtie, even when mak“He was the patriarch of the family; it ing to familiar patterns, much around them ing signs. Some of his bowties are still was his way or the highway,” Warren says. was changing. Citywide urban renewal efstored in the shop, along with sales ledgers “I wouldn't want to be [in the shop] if some- forts, fueled by the Housing Act of 1949, written in ink. one was found sitting down.” led to the destruction of many old buildings “[He was] one of the first to have a Despite his grandfather’s stern de- and homes across Pittsburgh. While certain car… in the family, in the area,” Warren meanor, Warren says he also placed a large Northside neighborhoods such as the Mexsays. emphasis on family. Most of Warren’s cous- ican War Streets were spared due to hisAlbert Sr. died before Warren or Mark ins all worked at the shop at some point. torical significance, others, like Allegheny could meet him, though both knew their “The shop was like the center of the See Signs, Page 31 grandfather and the company’s second family,” Warren says.
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“Compassion Hub” now open at Allegheny Center Alliance Church By Hallie Lauer When Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) closed their doors on March 16 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Allegheny Center Alliance Church (ACAC) knew they had to do something to help. So they pitched a tent, reopened the commercial kitchen used for their Summer Day Camp Food program, recruited volunteers, and began giving hot lunches to children in the Northside. ACAC started this endeavor, which they are calling the Compassion Hub, on
According to Turnbull, the Community Hub is a combined effort to “reconnect the numerous ACAC buildings.” ACAC is partnered with the Urban Impact Foundation (UIF) to build this Community Hub. UIF is also working with ACAC at the Compassion Hub by delivering meals to Northside families. Previously, UIF was operating Grab and Go sites, many of which are no longer operating daily. “The vision of [the] Compassion Hub is evolving and growing,” said Turnbull. “We are listening carefully to the growing needs of our Northside community and brain-
Photo courtesy of Allegheny Center Alliance Church
Hot lunch pickup is now offered Monday through Friday at the new “Compassion Hub," run by Allegheny Center Alliance Church in the Northside. April 6. On that first day alone, they handed out 260 hot lunches for children who have been impacted by the closure of PPS due to COVID-19. Parents or guardians can pick up these lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. All CDC Safety Guidelines are being followed by those volunteering for the Hub. Although ACAC can only serve meals for children right now, they are also offering printed maps of free food sites catering to adults, as well as educational materials about the virus and children’s activities. The Compassion Hub tent currently stands in the parking lot between ACAC’s Union Place Building at 801 Union Pl., and ACAC’s Main Sanctuary. ACAC’s Main Sanctuary is the site where ACAC’s Friendship Community Hub was scheduled to be built starting this August. That date has now been put into question due to ongoing safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak. “Isn’t it just like God to first activate a hub of compassion on the very site where the new Hub building will stand one day,” Pastor Ken Turnbull said in an email.
storming ideas with other service providers like [The] Pittsburgh Project to expand the
Photo courtesy of Allegheny Center Alliance Church
ACAC's Compassion Hub tent is currently in the parking lot between the Union Place Building at 801 Union Pl. and the Main Sanctuary. If you'd like to volunteer, see the contact information below. resources we can make available.” If you are interested in volunteering for the Compassion Hub, contact Tracy Grondziowski at tracy.grondziowski@acac. net to be put on the schedule. n
The Northside Chronicle
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May 2020
Advice for small business owners: Get your financials in order From Taxes, Page 7 at EPS instead of their personal accounts. According to the EPS, if this has happened to you, your payment was returned to the
Ask An Attorney
By Matthew D. Gailey, Gailey Law Group
The largest problem in the lives of Northsiders today is the coronavirus and the accompanying economic shutdown that leaders have imposed on Pennsylvanians. The constitutional illegitimacy and foolishness of the oppressive shutdown orders are not the subject of this month's article. This month's article will focus on some of the legal ramifications associated with the eventual reopening of the economy. As of this writing, no legislation has been passed that would grant legal immunity to a business who reopened and exposed a customer or employee to the coronavirus. However, the current state of the law should give business owners many reasons to be thankful. Firstly, based on a negligence standard, it would be very difficult to show that a customer contracted coronavirus at your business. More specifically, in negligence cases, for a person to be liable to another for physical damages one has to prove causation. For instance, a customer would have to show that their damages of contracting the coronavirus
were caused by the negligence of a business owner. Along these lines, it would be very hard to show that a customer contracted the virus at a business and not somewhere else in society. Additionally, employers can also likely rely on their workers compensation insurance carriers to prevent them from being liable to any employee who contracted the disease at work. Similar to a negligence case, it would also be extremely difficult to show that the employee got coronavirus at work and not from another location. Finally, it would be important for businesses to follow any CDC-recommended guidelines concerning social distancing and other safety practices. If a business owner followed such guidelines, then it would be easier for a business to file a motion to dismiss any frivolous lawsuits on the grounds that they had acted reasonably in an emergency situation. If you have any further questions about legal liability concerning the coronavirus, please feel free to give me a call.
Photo courtesy of Pexels
Tax season still represents a time of financial burden for some, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
IRS so that it can be distributed to you directly. Tax preparers like Payne can’t answer questions about these payment errors. Instead, she says you should contact the
IRS directly. In addition to tax services and accounting consultations at M&A, Payne also offers notary services. These services are needed for any legal forms that require a state notary, like removing money from a 401(k) or deed and title transfers. Payne’s husband, Michael, is a notary public as well as the owner of Observatory Hill Deli, which is located at 3856 Baytree St., next door to M&A Tax. The deli was Michael’s dream for years, and Antoinette describes the opportunity to open it up as “God given.” “People always ask me if I did the decorating,” Antoinette says. “But it was all him. He wanted somewhere where people feel comfortable and like home.” She describes the deli as having a “rustic feel” to it. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and customers can place orders on Grubhub. Payne’s door may be locked, but her business is open by appointment. Consultations with her can be scheduled on the M&A Tax website at https://www.mandataxes.com/contact-us/. n
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May 2020
YMCA offers free access to new online programs By Janine Faust Through YWithYou, the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh makes education, fitness, and community programs and services available online. The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh’s
sports training, and pilates. Small group training and weight loss challenge sessions will also be available. A weekly schedule with further information can be found at https://www.pittsburghymca.org/YLive. YAtHome also offers regularly updated workout videos and activities from Y in-
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Photo courtesy of Pexels
Now you can stay healthy and connected while you're social distancing with YWithYou: virtual resources from the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. Program options range from group workouts to reading circles for children. goal is to bring local communities together, but when everyone has to stay indoors, that gets a little harder. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, local YMCA branches are closed to members until stay-at-home orders are lifted and non-essential businesses are reopened. However, the organization is aiming to still support Pittsburghers through its new online initiative, YWithYou. YWithYou is an online program separated into four categories; YLive, YAtHome, YWithFamilies, and YTogether. Virtual programs range from group workouts to reading circles for children. Pittsburghers can also access materials such as recipes and educational activities. In the wake of school and work closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, YLive programs and materials can be freely accessed by the public until April 1. After this date, they will only be available to members. All other programs will remain free. Through YLive, the YMCA’s Healthy Living staff will conduct virtual exercise classes, including cycling, yoga, youth
structors that users can access on their own time. Users can also access nutritious recipes and mindfulness materials like guided meditations. YWithFamilies provides regularly updated activities and tools for families with children, including virtual story times and nutritious recipes. This section also includes links to family-friendly workout videos, crafting videos, and virtual “field trips” to museums. YTogether highlights some of YMCA Pittsburgh’s community service initiatives and ways to support them. Pittsburghers are encouraged to sign up to make community calls checking in on senior members and financially vulnerable families or donate to its Covid relief fund. They can also purchase items for the low-income housing site at the Northside’s Allegheny YMCA via Amazon. “The impact of COVID-19 has created an even greater need for our residents, as many jobs were lost due to required closures,” the Allegheny YMCA wrote. “We appreciate your support as we do our best to stay true to our mission during these unprecedented and uncertain times.” n
2610 Maple Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15214 This multi-purpose complex has a large inventory of meeting and training space for businesses, individuals, and community organizations to rent at $13/sq ft. Audio/visual, presentation and training equipment available for meetings, orientations, training sessions and conferences. Facilities can accomodate up to 200 people. For more information call 412-969-2661 or 412-403-2303
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Northside Real Estate Transfers Allegheny City Central
Marshall-Shadeland
Ryan McNulty to Amy Collins at 21 Alpine Ave. for $320,000.
Maxanna Properties Inc. to Avid Holdings 1802 LLC at 1312 Complete St. for $30,000.
Patrick Glowacki to Cartus Financial Corp. at 1234 Wolfrum St. for $245,000. Cartus Financial Corp. to Cela Management & Investment LLC, 1234 Wolfrum St., $245,000. Kimble Hicks LLC to Three Rivers Properties LLC at Jacksonia St. (Vacant Land) for $75,000. Pittsburgh City to Richard Garzony at 1412 Loraine St. for $2,324. Pittsburgh City to Richard Garzony at 1414 Loraine St. for $2,324. Pittsburgh City to Frank Andrew Kartesz at 1416 Loraine St. for $4,067.
AABBCDE Trustee 17 LLC trustee to Ferrell Holdings LLC at 2812 Wadlow St. for $22,900. Estate of Eugene Brannon to Brandon Valorie at 3007 Wadlow St. for $7,700. John Markovich Jr. to Andrew Allen at 2810 Wadlow St. for $8,000.
Observatory Hill Charles Krause to Stilts & Stones LLC at 3810 East St. for $100,000. Charles Ponds to P2O Player to Owner LLC at 32 Bonvue St. for $2,000. Jet Glo Properties LLC to Shanell Robinson at 3776 East St. for $45,000.
BLN Properties LLC to Steven and Meaghan Regal at 418 W. Jefferson St. for $90,000.
Stephen Hugo to Anthony Pagano at 3510 Perrysville Ave. for $36,424.
Allegheny West
William Ralston Jr. to Charles Beech Properties 100 LLC at 3611 Baytree St. for $12,000.
Edward Stephan to Jason Schultz and Robyn Bracco at 934 W North Ave. for $505,000.
Perry Hilltop
Brighton Heights Renee M Coltz Daum to Homes 4 Comfort LLC at 3938 California Ave. for $53,000. Gary Snelsire trustee to Meghan Philp at 4047 California Ave. for $156,000. Shawn Higgins to J Inman Properties LLC at 3244 Langfitt St. for $62,500. Cash for Homes Pgh LLC to W. North Dev. LLC, 1809 Termon Ave., $15,233 (Value: $210,000). Kiran Shetty to Rickey Lee Dean at 117 Cobbler Cir for $160,000. Sean Mahoney to Loretta Maierhofer and Denise Quinn at 1147 Cornell St. for $198,900.
Marshall Shadeland Redev. to Steel City Realty & Home Remodel LLC, 116 Hawkins Ave., $5,000. Kenneth Slaby to Federal National Mortgage Assn. at 240 Kennedy Ave. for $15,000. Patricia Pullen Jacobs to Amina Muya at 2524 Maple Ave. for $48,000. NCRC Housing Rehab Fund LLC to Nicholas Sangregory at 210 Langley Ave. for $170,000. Kimberly Irvin to Edward Coffey Jr. and Adrienne Coffey at 116 W Burgess St. for $17,748. Colin Dorsey to Reginald Maurice Wilkins and Carly Jean Smittle at 1924 Perrysville Ave., $35,000.
Spring Garden Carol Meadows to Evan Mitchell Burke at 1350 Diana St. for $113,500.
Silvia Santana to Jonathan and Brittany McComas at 3505 Diploma St. for $131,661.
Ralo Properties LLC to Catrina Ann Vargo at 1007 High St. for $225,000.
Geoffrey Devore to Michael and Maribeth Perry at 2032 Termon Ave. for $186,500
Amos Financial LLC to R & P Holdings LLC at 1228 Itin St. for $28,000.
California-Kirkbride
Spring Hill
Anna Katunina Rodriguez to Virk & Bahl LLC at 1309 Sigel St. for $36,000.
Carla Guajardo to Anna Failla at 1153 Buente St. for $85,000.
East Deutschtown
F & S Quality Homes to Andrea Johnson at 2107 Harbor St. for $150,000.
Blair Christensen to Kyndra Szymanski at 850 Tripoli St. for $275,000. Bridgehouse Properties LLC to Kyle McIvor and Adolat Pulatova, 858 Lovitt Way for $55,000.
Historic Deutschtown Charles Heidlage to Alden and Rebecca Mae Merchant at 910 Cedar Ave. for $520,000.
Manchester
Mike Yost Jr. to Celina Okada at 1106 S Side Ave. for $5,000.
Troy Hill Steven Smith to Casa De Kaha LLC at 1127 Troy Hill Road for $80,000. Stephen Chechak Jr. to Joshua Krajnak at 1948 Ley St. for $48,000. 1125 Troy Hill Road LLC to Casa de Kaha LLC at 1125 Troy Hill Road for $50,000. Kuan Hung Lin to Frederick and Robin Grove at 1 Waterside Pl for $540,000.
Damian Manley to Amy Hepner at 1119 Pennsylvania Ave. for $177,000.
Thelma Csurilla to Brabek Properties LLC at 1112 Brabec St. for $31,700.
Landmarks Development Corp. to Kelsey Benigni at 1405 Pennsylvania Ave. for $250,000.
Justin Reiner to Carla Laughner at 1336 Truax Way for $78,000.
Lagunita Investments L.P. to Barbara Walker at 1409 W North Ave. for $350,000.
Estate of Ludwig Suchacek to Daniel James Rectenwald at 1942 Ley St. for $85,000.
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Grim on Rust Belt cities and the "Retail Apocalypse" From Grim, Page 20 me. I feel that most people never quite realize how circumscribed their daily lives are by routines. You might drive through a few neighborhoods every day, but can you even consider yourself knowledgeable about what it might be like to exist in those places? And those are just the places that you happen through. Think about all the streets in Pittsburgh you have never walked down. Think about all the places you’ve walked through but never really looked closely at. It’s mind-bending.
of them in this region. For some reason, the Rust Belt cities loved their malls, and even with several closing recently—the Century III Mall prominently among them—there are still some hanging on at this late date in the “Retail Apocalypse.” I
NSC: How long have you been a photographer? How did you get your start? DG: I had a Polaroid Land Camera back in my 20s. I’d run around and snap a pic here and there, but the cost of the outdated film was prohibitive. When I hit 30, I wanted to shoot video, but the technology was still so expensive. I decided I’d buy a camera, take some stills, and learn what I could visually while the price of that digital tech dropped. I’d mostly shoot around my friends, and they liked what they saw and encouraged me to show my photos at the Southside Beehive. This was 2004. From there, I ended up doing some gallery shows and engaged that whole scene for awhile. Shows got expensive after awhile, and the rewards really didn’t match the effort. Over the last 10 years or so, I’ve mostly been just making work and posting it online. Maybe I’ll feel like doing shows again if art events ever really return after the great COVID lockdown. NSC: You referred to one of your recent photographic interests of the moment as an “obsession.” Is that what it feels like: Themes that you’re so devoted to that you become fixated on them? DG: I do end up diving deeply into whatever subject matter catches my interest. After I went around and explored all of the neighborhoods in Pittsburgh—I never quite realized how many and how distinctive they are—I started in on Cleveland. I really did become obsessed with that city. I really do love it there. Then, a year or so ago, I got really interested in pinball and went around shooting details of the playfields of various games. Sure, “obsession” fits, I guess. NSC: Your most recent obsession, before the shutdown, was dying malls. What are some of your favorite aspects of this series? The dying malls fixation is fairly recent. I just started delving into them last fall. We are extraordinarily lucky to have a lot
May 2020
Get care quickly, without leaving your house.
Photo courtesy of David Grim
Grim on a recent shopping trip. like the vintage touches, and I’ll often try to highlight them in my shots: The fake plants, the tile floors, the skylights, and the styles of the storefronts all interest me. I am a bit sad that I came so late to this particular interest, and I fear that many of the places that I had in my sights to shoot are already gone forever, killed off by this pandemic. You can bet I’ll be heading off to catch some of them when this quarantine ends. NSC: What will you explore next in your work? What else are you interested in? DG: Besides more dying mall explorations, I am certain that I will continue to travel to neighborhoods and towns throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania and the Rust Belt: I like the exercise; I like the sense of exploration; I like being challenged visually and psychologically by these places. I think there is some value in preserving them in digital data form, so that people can see the places they don’t usually visit or wouldn’t even consider going. I explore the world through my camera. I never set out looking specifically for anything, and I let the light pull me where it wants, of course. I feel like I bear witness to things that would otherwise go unseen. I’m certain that this drives a lot of photographers; It feels natural. I suspect I’ll be doing it as long as I am able, and I will certainly continue keeping it local as well. I walk around my own small slice of Southwestern Pennsylvania at least once every week, and have posted a shot from the zip code where I live every day for over six years now. n
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May 2020
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Page 29
Northside Primary Election Guide
IMPORTANT DATES & DEADLINES: • Register to vote by May 18. • Apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot by May 26. • Submit your absentee or mail-in ballot by June 2. • Find your nearest polling place at https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/ Pages/PollingPlaceInfo.aspx.
CANDIDATES FOR PENNSYLVANIA AUDITOR GENERAL Nina Ahmad (D) H. Scott Conklin (D) Rosie Davis (D) Tracie Fountain (D) Christina Hartman (D) Michael Lamb (D) Timothy DeFoor (R)
WHO’S RUNNING IN PENNSYLVANIA: At the time of printing, Allegheny County’s Primary Election 2020 ballot has not been finalized. Visit https://www.alleghenycounty.us/elections/sample-ballots.aspx for the most updated information.
CANDIDATES FOR PENNSYLVANIA TREASURER Joseph Torsella (D) (Incumbent) Stacy Garrity (R)
U.S. CONGRESS: CANDIDATES FOR U.S. HOUSE PENNSYLVANIA DISTRICT 18
CANDIDATES FOR PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 19 Jake Wheatley Jr. (D) (Incumbent) Aerion Abney (D)
Michael Doyle (D) (Incumbent) Jerry Dickinson (D) Luke Negron (R) STATEWIDE OFFICES: CANDIDATES FOR PENNSYLVANIA ATTORNEY GENERAL Josh Shapiro (D) (Incumbent) Heather Heidelbaugh (R)
PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 19:
PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 20: CANDIDATES FOR PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 20 Adam Ravenstahl (D) (Incumbent) Emily Kinkead (D)
Photos courtesy of the candidates
Notable races for the Northside this year are, top: Jake Wheatley Jr. (D) (Incumbent) against Aerion Abney (D) for Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 19, and, bottom: Adam Ravenstahl (D) (Incumbent) against Emily Kinkead (D) for Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 20. n
Allegheny Co. Executive Rich Fitzgerald on in-person voting in 2020 By Ashlee Green The Pennsylvania primary has been delayed until June 2, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald said in-person voting at that time is still “a mandate from the state that’s unrealistic.” While registered voters have the choice to vote by mail—and reportedly, will all be mailed a mail-in ballot application*—the real issue, he said, is the health and safety of the poll workers. Polling locations, Fitzgerald said, are often not county locations. Instead, they are churches, schools, community centers, Veterans of Foreign Wars posts, and car dealerships. “These folks might not even let us be there,” he said. Election rules are made at the state level, Fitzgerald explained, and the job of the Pennsylvania Board of Elections, made up of Fitzgerald, Council Member Sam DeMarco, and Council Member Bethany Hallam, is to carry them out. Though it’s pos-
sible that the primary could be pushed back further, Fitzgerald said it’s unlikely. He’d like to see Pennsylvania follow the lead of Oregon, Washington, Utah, Colorado, and Hawaii, and switch to All-Mail Elections. “In places like Oregon, they mail out their ballots three weeks before the election. We still have time to do that and meet the June 2 deadline,” Fitzgerald said. According to Fitzgerald, the Board of Elections is required to staff a couple thousand poll workers at about 600 polling places throughout Allegheny County, with five poll workers at each polling location. These workers, he said, tend to be retired seniors, one of the demographics most at risk for contracting COVID-19. He urged Allegheny County residents to opt to vote by mail instead. Due to an order by Gov. Tom Wolf back in 2018, every county in the state has implemented new voting machines with paper trails. Whether or not you vote in-person, Fitzgerald explained, you’ll be using a
paper ballot. “The ballot you get when you show up at a polling place will be the very same ballot you will receive in the mail,” Fitzgerald said. The only difference, he said, is that if you vote in-person, your ballot will be put through a scanner. Mail-in ballots, on the other hand, will be put in an envelope, and then put in the mail. COVID-19 has already deterred people from attending church services, visiting movie theaters and festivals, and celebrating family functions such as weddings and graduations, Fitzgerald said. “There’s no question,” according to him, that COVID-19 will deter people from voting in-person at the polls this year too. “Until there’s a treatment or a vaccine, I just don’t think that people are going to have the confidence to go out and expose themselves to a potential virus,” he said. The elections board will meet the week of April 27 to discuss the consolidation of in-person polling locations.* As far as mail-
in voting goes, Fitzgerald said that any time there’s a change, mistakes will be made, but thinks they can be reduced by hiring enough staff. “If we’re not permitted to eliminate the in-person voting, we still want to encourage as many people as we can to vote by mail: It’s safer for the voter, it’s safer for the worker, and it’s more convenient all the way around.” You must register to vote for this year’s primary election by Monday, May 18, and apply for either a mail-in or absentee ballot by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26. All mailin and absentee ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2. For more information or to sign up for a mail-in or absentee ballot, visit https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/ or call 1-877-VOTESPA (1.877.868.3772). n *Editor’s note 4/27/2020: This story was originally published online on April 15. It has been edited for print with updated information.
The Northside Chronicle
Page 30
May 2020
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A.E. Jones adapts to a digitized industry From Signs, Page 22 Center, were not. In the case of the A.E. Jones Sign Co., Warren says Pittsburgh’s Urban Redevelopment Authority paid Albert Sr. to move his business out of 1313 Federal Street to make way for a fire station. The shop then moved to its current location. Just as Albert Sr. had groomed Albert Jr. to take over the sign shop, Albert Jr. expected Warren’s father, William, to take over when he retired. William began working full-time under his father after coming home from the Korean War in the late 1950s. In 1968, Albert Jr. had a heart attack and went into retirement, leaving William to take over. About ten people worked in the garage in the 1970s, including a secretary, sign painters, installers, and house painters. A.E. Jones Sign Co. continued doing jobs for local commercial outlets while also taking on bigger projects, such as lettering for the former Three Rivers Stadium. Gas stations like Gulf Oil and Boron ranked among their biggest clients. Warren remembered his work for the company starting as a summer job when he was 14, before transitioning to full-time under his father, William, at age 17 in 1977. He learned about different strokes from old books in the shop that traced back to his great-grandfather’s time, which his family nicknamed “morgues,” and became acquainted with the company’s signature look for lettering: a standard block font cut at a 45-degree angle. Back in those days, the shop would often create original artwork for sign orders, whereas now, companies tend to employ graphic designers separately. “Today I say we're spoon fed because everyone comes in with their logo and we reproduce,” Warren says. Business remained steady up until the late 1970s, when the Steel Crisis hit. The sudden loss of economic activity took a toll on the A.E. Jones Sign Co. According to Swormstedt, the loss was to be expected. “Signs as commercial products are going to rise and fall with the economy,” he says. It was during this unexpectedly turbulent time that William needed heart surgery, after which he took a less stressful job as
a caretaker. Warren, the youngest of three brothers, officially took over the sign shop in 1982. His two siblings ran the painting division. “I was 22 and I had nothing to lose,” Warren says. “When you're young, you're fearless. I had a good work ethic; I put my nose to the grindstone.” Warren says he stuck to real estate the first few years and sought out people who were recently unemployed and starting new small businesses. By 1985, he was able to buy the deed to the garage, which was in his
the more bread-and-butter type signs.” Suddenly, the Jones’ sole adherence to traditional hand lettering and silkscreening was no longer feasible. Still, Warren was determined to keep the shop going and threw himself into learning these new methods. “It was a whole new learning curve,” Warren says. “Like someone put your hands behind your back and said, ‘Go ahead and make a sign.’” Since the 1980s, the process of making a sign has become more and more automat-
Photo by Janine Faust
When the sign industry went digital, A.E. Jones Sign Co.'s focus on traditional hand lettering and silkscreening was no longer feasible. "It was a whole new learning curve," says owner Warren Jones. grandfather's name. Warren cited the strong family ties to the shop as the reason why he still wanted to run it despite the risk. But besides being young and struggling through an economic crisis, he also had to deal with advances in technology. The sign industry goes digital Swormstedt explains that in the 80s, signmaking became “computerized.” New machines such as plotters, which could draw and cut out shapes in vinyl, were invented. Fonts and shapes could be saved and stored on discs, instead of hand-drawn and painted individually. This, Swormstedt says, changed the industry. “Guys could get into the sign industry with no knowledge of fonts or how to hand letter. There were a lot of poorly done but high-tech signs made, which detracted from
ed, Warren says. While he still does a bit of hand lettering for awnings, he’s more likely to be found hunched over a vinyl printer than a wooden board. The A.E. Jones Sign Co. almost exclusively deals in printing instead of painting now — which is not uncommon for sign shops today, Swormstedt says. In the past 10 years, modern signmaking has gone completely digital, from design to lamination. As Pittsburgh began to recover from the Steel Crisis, Warren found that computers made handling orders much easier work. There was no need to hire people to help him in the shop again, save a couple of part-timers. Now, he simply does all the work by himself. “I can do it in a real fast turnaround,” Warren says. “It's a little less moving parts.
More productive.” He prints all sorts of signs, including wraps for vehicles, real estate sale signs, yard signs for local universities, and common road signs such as stop signs and yield signs, on coroplast — a type of corrugated plastic — and vinyl. When a new business opens, he might have a range of sign requests in one order, including ones for the front door lettering, window graphics, and storefront. “The benefit of being here a long time is I have almost all repeat business. I don't go out selling and trying to market, which, if you’re a young company, you have to do that—be on social media, the whole nine yards,” Warren says. “I'm trying to take care of what I have coming in. In business, that’s a good place to be.” What comes next for A.E. Jones Warren’s climbing days are over — he contracts with outside sources for help installing the signs if necessary — and so far, Warren’s kept the A.E. Jones Sign Co. running steadily on his own. The painting division, which his older brother Glen ran separately until last year, is “now in limbo” following Glen’s retirement. Swormstedt says fewer mom-andpop sign companies like A.E. Jones Co. exist these days, though appreciation for hand-lettered signs and those who know how to make them is coming back as part of the Maker Movement. “Even department stores sell handmade sweaters from Peru,” Swormstedt says. “There is more respect and appreciation for things handmade.” Warren says he’d like to keep the company in the family, but believes he’ll be the last Jones to ever run the shop. Most of his cousins have careers in other industries or have moved outside of Pittsburgh, and he can’t think of anyone younger who is willing to take over when he retires. “There’s a better survival rate if I sell it to someone in the industry who knows what they’re doing,” he says. Warren’s certain that whoever ends up running A.E. Jones Sign Co. after him will find it to be a lucrative enterprise. “All the stuff [in] the North Shore and all the new local businesses… I sometimes feel I'm holding [the company] back ‘cause I'm limited here in what I can do,” he says. “We’re in the heart of it, and there's so much growth here.” n
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May 2020
Now more than ever we need a champion.
Democrat Emily Kinkead is ready to fight for us. “ Emily is a brilliant lawyer who is well-versed in the issues that affect my constituents.” — Bobby Wilson, City Councilor, District 1
“ “ “ “ “
I have seen Emily Kinkead everywhere. She has been out in the community and stands for any community that has been marginalized.” — Liv Bennett, County Councilor, District 13 Emily’s experience as a lawyer and a decade of working on our state’s biggest issues means she will be ready to lead the fight on day one.” — Bethany Hallam, County Councilor, At-Large
Emily Kinkead has made her commitment to reproductive health, rights, and justice a centerpiece of her campaign.” We know that Emily Kinkead will be a fierce advocate for environmental issues in the 20th House District.”
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We know that Emily Kinkead will make sure that every worker, from House District 20 and beyond, has their voice represented in Harrisburg.” Also proudly endorsed by: Working Families Party, Democracy for America, People for the American Way Next Up Victory Fund, Unite! PAC, Young Democrats of Allegheny County, Steel City Stonewall Democrats, Gertrude Stein Political Club, Sunrise Movement Pittsburgh
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