From the editor: Behind the blooms

On our cover is a holiday display from Fairway Florals from last year’s Christmas season.

Fairway Florals is situated alongside the Nemacolin Country Club along Route 40 in Beallsville. Owner Nancy Vankirk found her passion for arranging flowers and teaching classes after retiring from her 30-plus-year teaching career.

In the gorgeous back room with a view of the outdoors, Nancy offers classes on live arrangements and other seasonally-themed decorations.

The shop offers more than just the live and silk flowers Nancy is known for; it also offers gift items and jewelry.

“Some of the jewelry is handmade and one-of-akind,” Nancy said.

Nancy and her husband, Chris, have expansion plans to offer an affordable and beautiful event venue. Construction should begin in the spring.

Writer Michele Gillis also talked with George and Ronalyn Apodiakos from By George for this issue. The Monessen eatery first opened on a space on Grand Boulevard in 2015 but quickly outgrew it. They moved into a larger location in 2019, right before the pandemic began to shut things down.

“When we were made to go under all the restrictions, it was petrifying in the beginning. But, I can honestly tell you, the people of Mon Valley and the surrounding areas came through, and if they didn’t order food that night, they purchased gift cards. Everyone was wonderful in that regard,” Ronalyn said.

By George is a family-owned and operated business. The couple’s children and extended family are often in the restaurant. George oversees the day-to-day operations. Ronalyn handles the front of the house. Read more about their family business and how exciting it was for By George to be featured on a popular restaurant web show.

As always, thank you so much for reading. Feel free to call me at 724-222-2200 ext. 2421 or email me at tthurston@observer-reporter.com with ideas or suggestions. Take care, stay safe and see you in the next edition.