New naming partnership for Mon Valley Alliance and cfsbank
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS:
Hotel Morgan is the heart of Downtown Morgantown
CREATORS HAVEN: Makers gallery adds variety to Scenery Hill’s collection of boutique emporiums
PRACTICING LAW
Peacock Keller celebrates centennial
6
CREATORS HAVEN: Makers gallery adds variety to Scenery Hill’s collection of boutique emporiums
18
MORE THAN NUMBERS: A people-first approach to financial planning
{from the editor}
10
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS: Hotel Morgan is the heart of Downtown Morgantown
23
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT: South West Regional Chamber of Commerce
12
PRACTICING LAW: Peacock Keller celebrates centennial
26
DRIVEN BY HOPE Employees rally behind local nonprofits through Friven by Hope
The heart behind the pages
I’ll be honest: This letter is almost always the last thing I write for each magazine. I tend to stare at the blank page a little too long, wondering what on earth I could say that’s interesting enough to share. And I sometimes catch myself thinking, Does anyone even read these?
It turns out some of you do, and that means the world to me! To those of you who take a few minutes to read these little reflections of mine, thank you. Over the years, I’ve heard from readers who connected with pieces I wrote about grief, planting roots or my unabashed love of fall. Your notes remind me that even small stories can resonate.
Putting these magazines together is a genuine joy. Each story in these pages highlights something special about our region. This edition’s cover story does just that, highlighting a partnership between the Mon Valley Alliance and cfsbank. The Mon Valley Alliance’s Business Resource Center has hosted programs such as educational opportunities, job retraining, technical assistance and networking to help small businesses launch, grow and thrive. Now, cfsbank’s naming rights funding will ensure the success of the enterprise for the next decade. Read this story and more, such as spotlighting Peacock Keller’s 100th anniversary and a feature on a maker’s gallery in Scenery Hill.
Thank you, truly, for reading. I genuinely love hearing from you. Whether you have thoughts to share, story ideas or just want to say hello, please reach out by email or give me a call. Your voices make this work so worthwhile.
16
A VERY WASHINGTON COUNTY CHRISTMAS: Markets, Magic & More to Explore in December
28
NEW NAMING PARTNERSHIP FOR MON VALLEY ALLIANCE AND CFSBANK
A recent job training session by the Gismondi Job Training Program, created and led by Catholic Charities, was hosted at the Mon Valley Alliance’s cfsbank Business Resource Center. The training focused on local fiber and telecommunications businesses, expanding connectivity in the region. An
Editor
Trista Thurston
Advertising Director
Carole DeAngelo
Graphic Designer
Eric Tomlinson
Contributors
All my best, Editor
April Barbe
Kristin Emery
Emily King
Haven Stetor
Dave Zuchowski
Photo courtesy of the Mon Valley Alliance
TRI-STATE
Neuro ath Centers
Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers
Bill
Karen
Makers gallery adds variety to Scenery Hill’s collection of boutique emporiums
Photos and story by Dave Zuchowski
When Kathy and Brian Allen bought the 1890s brick, post-Victorian house from a friend in October 2023, they began wondering what to do with the attractive Scenery Hill property.
As owners of the nearby Beck-Ringland Tavern, they purchased the house partly to provide additional parking space, but they knew they didn’t want to rent it to residential tenants. Instead, they zoned in on adding yet another shop in the picturesque village that straddles Route 40.
“In May, we opened the Gallery House, a makers’ gallery that features everything from custom-designed woodworking cabinetry, floral arrangements and candles to stained glass, hand-lathed bowls, local honey and all-natural soaps,” Brian Allen said.
The owners provide shelving and curio cabinets to vendors who rent space at $1.75 per sq. ft. and collectively run the gallery. At the moment, seven vendors have set up shop with room for another seven. A classroom is also available on the second floor for workshops.
Vendors Alfie and Kristie Ralston from Washington have stocked their space with hardwood boxes used to store firearms. The boxes lock and come in a variety of hardwoods, including maple and red oak, in sizes small, medium and large. Alfie builds the boxes based on Kristy’s designs, which can also be concealed in a coat rack. Prices range from $300 to $600, depending on size and design.
The Ralstons also create handmade ammo boxes and laser-engraved wall art with plans to add decorative wine bottles soon.
Originally from West Virginia, retired art teacher and psychotherapist Kim Wilcox recently bought a home in Scenery Hill. Her current inventory includes acrylic and oil paintings, jewelry and geological and crystal jewelry.
“I get my crystals at gem shows from all over the place,” Wilcox said. Her necklaces and bracelets can sell for as low as $10 to $20, and she’s especially fond of showcasing her reversible aprons.
From their home of Hillberry Acres in Lone Pine, Amber and Keith Hillberry are beekeepers with five hives who market not only their honey but also beeswax products like all-natural, chemical-free soaps, lotions, shampoo bars (that can be taken on airplanes) and wood wax for wooden utensils and cutting boards.
Like many of the vendors, they both work other full-time jobs: Amber for UPMC, Keith for Kalkreuth Roofing.
“We started beekeeping in 2022 with zero experience, but learned by watching videos and joining two beekeeping
Vendors outside the Gallery House. From left, front, Mike McKee, Sandy McKee, Kristy Ralston, Alfie Ralston, Amber Hillberry, Keith Hillberry and Dan Schwartz. Standing, Kathleen Miller, Kim Wilcox, A.J. Nicholls, Jamie Nicholls and Laura Frost
Alfie and Kristie Ralston with their firearms storage boxes
Jamie and AJ Nichols with their array of all-natural, clean-burning candles
Kim Wilcox with her jewelry and crystal creations
groups,” Amber said. “We just recently pulled 50 pounds of wildflower honey from our hives,” Keith added.
When he was 13, Mike McKee’s grandparents bought him a lathe, but it was his grandfather, John Rockwell, who taught him how to use it.
“Over the years, I did all sorts of woodworking, making furniture, corn hole boards, even rocking horses,” said the retired draftsman from Washington. “Now I’m into lathe turning,”
One day, when he and his wife, Sandy, went to a woodworking show in Columbus, they saw a 13-year-old turning pens. “I can do
Laura Frost and her inventory of stained glass
Amber and Keith Hillberry dressed in their beekeeping outfits
Sandy and Mike McKee with their display of wood pens and other wooden creations
Dan Schwartz with his wooden bowls, vases, decorative coffee tables and lamp tables.
that,” Mike thought.
Now, not only does he market his wood-fabricated pens, including his popular “dragon pens,” but he also makes pizza cutters, keychains, salt and pepper shakers, flight boards and bottle stoppers. His products run in the $15 to $45 range. You can also find him at shows where he’s helped to set up by his wife, Sandy, a CFO for a dental practice.
From Brownsville, Kathleen H. Miller runs her Sentimental Collections Florals and Antiques business with the motto, “We like to make memories last.”
“I love working with antiques from the 40s to the 60s to create florals,” said Miller, whose full-time job is with Washington County.
In her designs, she’ll arrange silk and dry florals in everything from gas cans and antique scales to antique chairs. After working for several area florists for over 30 years, she now creates her own custom designs for proms, weddings, funerals and other special occasions. Follow Sentimental Collections Floral on Facebook and Instagram.
Jamie and AJ Nichols, a husbandand-wife team, created Tidal Candle Company in 2021. Jamie, an avid candle burner and owner and broker at Park Place Realty, said she burned so many candles that didn’t burn well, she decided to create her own. After five years of testing and research, she decided it was time to go public.
She sells her all-natural, cleanburning candles with wooden wicks on Etsy, on her website at tidalcandleco.com, and at the Gallery House. In addition to doing the heavy lifting, AJ, a real estate agent, engraves the candle lids with words like a name or a business, as well as an event such as a wedding or shower.
Also available at the Gallery House are Jamie’s all-natural wax melts, soaps, car diffusers and perfume roller balls.
Those who may have once patronized the Artists Co-Op of Washington may be familiar with the work of woodworker Dan Schwartz, who first got into the craft 25 years ago.
“Since my co-op days, I’ve gotten even better,” said Schwartz, who works a day job at Shiloh Industrial Contractors of Washington.
Known for his wooden bowls and vases, Schwartz recently began
using resin in his creations, mixing, pouring, and tempering it to create decorative coffee and lamp tables.
“If I can dream it, I can make it,” he said.
Schwartz creates his works on weekends, devoting as much as 20 to 25 hours over the two-and-a-half-day period. His products range in price from $20 for a small bowl or vase up to $400 for an epoxy table. Woods he uses include purpleheart, Bali, mahogany, zebra, as well as walnut, cherry, sassafras, hickory and ash.
Schwartz said he learned many techniques from his woodworker father. He also made friends with a fellow woodworker named Tom, whose work he much admired.
“We both dreamed about making a living from woodworking,” he said, which explains the name Tandom Dreams, a combination of Dan and Tom.
When Tom died, his widow gave Dan his lathe. “Now, in my work, I’m living both Tom’s and my dream,” he said.
From Centerville, Laura Frost has been making stained glass for six years just to keep busy after her son left for college. Over the years, she said she’s taken about 10 stained-glass and fused-glass classes with Ruth Mahoney at her The Glass Place in Lawrence.
A biology professor at Point Park University, Frost has been attending craft fairs for four years and has been a member of the Uniontown Art Gallery for three.
While she makes a variety of sun catchers, trays, spoon rests and night lights, which sell between $20 and $400, she also does a lot of customized work.
This past July, she started her first stained glass class at the Gallery House, which ran from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on four consecutive Tuesdays. The beginning level class was limited to six students and cost $150.
Frost is currently planning another class, and those interested in more information can look for posts on her Facebook (laura.frost.589) or Instagram pages. Prospective students can also email her at laurafrost2000@gmail.
The Gallery House, 2200 E. National Pike in Scenery Hill is open Thursday and Friday from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone 724-986-7148 for more information.
Kathleen H. Miller with her Sentimental Collections Floral
Emergency Generators We can install your generator - permanent or portable. We can help you size a generator for your home or office.
install Car Chargers for Electric Cars!
electrical
Smoke Detectors Did you remember to change your battery when you changed your clock? Smoke detectors should be replaced every 5 to 10 years, call us to ease your mind and we can take care of this for you! Experienced electricians that you can trust in your home or business
• Security Lighting
• Panel Box Upgrades
• Surge Protectors
• Hot Tub & Spa Installs
• Dedicated Outlets
• Emergency Generators
• Swimming Pools
• Troubleshooting Of Any Electrical Issue
Celebrating 100 years: Hotel Morgan is the heart of Downtown Morgantown
By April Barbe
Photos courtesy of Hotel Morgan
“Hotel Morgan is where history meets elegance,” according to the hotel’s Director of Sales, Jordan Thomas.
“I’ve had the opportunity to travel to and work at many different hotels throughout my career, but there’s truly nothing like Hotel Morgan. From its rich history to its timeless elegance, this hotel stands apart,” Thomas said.
This year, the historic hotel located in the heart of downtown Morgantown celebrates its 100th anniversary. Thomas said a celebration is still in the planning stages.
Hotel Morgan opened on Oct. 16, 1925, at 127 High St. It was named in honor of the founder of Morgantown, Zackquill Morgan.
“Reaching 100 years is a true milestone for Hotel Morgan — a symbol and staple of Morgantown, W.Va.,” Thomas said.
Upon opening, the hotel featured red, satin upholstery, crystal chandeliers and an elegant, two-story ballroom that became host to many of the town’s social events, Thomas said.
Over the years, Hotel Morgan has welcomed many distinguished guests, including former presidents Harry S. Truman and John F. Kennedy, former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and several current members of Congress.
These guests, along with others, are displayed along the breezeway to the right as guests enter the hotel.
Walking through the hotel is a historic trip for many, Thomas said.
“I can’t tell you how many tours I’ve given to guests who stayed here when they were younger or who were married here years ago. They return to see how the hotel has evolved, and I love hearing their stories and seeing the joy on their faces as they walk through these halls once again,” Thomas said.
Located near West Virginia University, Thomas said it’s the perfect destination
for both corporate travelers and guests simply looking to enjoy a night out.
In fact, it has received many honors this year:
• Best of Morgantown Award –Best Hotel 2025
• The Dominion Post Readers’ Choice Award – Best Hotel 2025
• Morgantown Area Partnership MidSize Business of the Year 2025
“These recognitions reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence and our continued role as a cherished landmark in the heart of Morgantown,” Thomas added.
In November 2019, the hotel was purchased by the Mississippi-based Thrash Group for approximately $2.5 million, with plans to complete a full restoration. Following a temporary closure for renovations, more than $15 million was invested to restore the hotel’s historic grandeur while adding modern amenities. The updates included revitalized guest rooms and suites, reimagined event spaces and the careful preservation of the hotel’s timeless architectural details,
according to Thomas.
In March 2021, the property officially reopened as Hotel Morgan, a Wyndham Hotel — blending nearly a century of history with a renewed sense of style and sophistication, he said.
Hotel Morgan is currently owned by The Thrash Group and managed by Tandem Hospitality. It features 83 guest rooms and suites, a European-style restaurant — Anvil + Ax — and over 6,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space.
According to the website, hotelmorgan.com, Anvil+Ax is a relaxed European restaurant that redefines evening cocktails. It is a part classic, part retro, part modern dining scene.
The Brant Grand Ballroom integrates history with contemporary style, featuring ornate chandeliers, hardwood paneling and black-andwhite marble floors. It is 3,200 square feet and can accommodate up to 200 guests, the website said.
And that’s not all Hotel Morgan has to offer.
“We offer convenient valet parking and a 24-hour fitness center for our guests. Every room features luxury linens and plush bedding for a comfortable stay,” Thomas added.
He said the hotel also offers special corporate rates for business travelers and discounts to West Virginia University employees, WVU hospital staff and parents of WVU students.
Thomas said he hopes Hotel Morgan will remain a strong part of the community for years to come.
“As we look toward the future, Hotel Morgan is committed to honoring its historic roots while continuing to evolve with the Morgantown community. Our goal is to remain a lasting staple in the city by partnering with local organizations, supporting community initiatives and building meaningful relationships that strengthen the fabric of Morgantown,” Thomas said.
For more information, visit hotelmorgan.com, email info@ hotelmorgan.com or call 304-292-8200.
Peacock Keller celebrates centennial
By Kristin Emery
Photos courtesy of Peacock Keller
The year was 1925. Talking movies were just starting to take the country by storm, F. Scott Fitzgerald just published The Great Gatsby and Calvin Coolidge was president. Here in Washington, a young man named Ralph Peacock started practicing law and began a legacy of providing excellent legal service and a commitment to the community. One hundred years later, the firm he started is still serving clients and the community as it hits the century mark. Charles C. Keller joined Ralph Peacock in 1950 and became a name partner in 1956. Keller embodied the same principles of legal expertise, integrity and a dedication to clients and the community.
Hometown roots
Ralph W. Peacock was a Washington County native and graduate of Muskingum College and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He served as a Deputy Attorney General of Pennsylvania and represented the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in public transportation matters for many years. His specialties were business, corporate and mineral law, and he was known for innovation, being the first lawyer in Washington County to use dictating equipment, an electric typewriter and copying equipment. In 1948, a major coal company hired Peacock to perform title work on over 100 tracts of coal. That led him to hire Charles C. Keller to assist on a part-time basis in 1950. A year later, Keller joined Peacock as his first full-time associate.
The original office was in Washington, with a part-time, second office in Houston. Today, the firm’s hub is in downtown Washington at 95 West Beau Street, Suite 600, with satellite offices in Southpointe and Waynesburg, serving clients from Allegheny, Butler, Greene, Washington and Fayette Counties in Pennsylvania, as well as nearby parts of West Virginia.
The next generation
in the Greater Washington community. “With everybody that they brought on as partners, and who those partners have agreed to bring on, have kind of maintained those same principles, and that’s really what’s done it,” he adds. “Being part of the community is really what’s helped with longevity.”
That community bond sustained the decades that followed, when it became necessary to transfer clients after Peacock passed away in 1972 and Keller in 2018.
“It was a big challenge,” Steele says. “They were able to do it. The partners that they had brought in and other attorneys that they had brought in were able to handle the work. They had already met and had good relationships with those clients, and it’s kind of just been how it’s continued each time it’s happened. It’s almost generational, the way I look at it. They transferred their principles, and then were able to transfer their clients to the partners who had been incoming before they retired. And then there was a next level and the next. They came to the firm, they stayed, became partners and then retired there. And I think that longevity is what has really helped.”
The second century
Managing partner Tom Steele admits his path to Peacock Keller is a little unusual. He grew up in Washington, graduated from Trinity High School in 1988 and then enlisted in the Army. After serving active duty, he went to IUP and then worked in the construction business as a safety manager. He didn’t start law school at the University of Pittsburgh until 2011 at age 41. “I started here in 2015,” says Steele. “My kids go to Trinity, and it’s just pretty neat to come back to your hometown and be able to have a job with absolutely great people.” Although different partners’ names have been added and dropped over the decades, the firm has always had Peacock Keller in its name since the 1950s. “Mr. Keller was still coming to the firm every day when I started,” Steele says. “He was retired, but he would come to the office, work on his memoirs and other things. He had the office right next to me. I mean, he was still coming to the office until right before he died, which was only a few years ago.
What’s the biggest challenge facing the firm as it enters its second century? “We’ve been blessed to have longevity and staff and fantastic people with administrative support, paralegals, those types of things,” says Steele. “But across all businesses, it’s a very difficult time right now. So what we’ve looked really hard at is, number one, obviously, that competency and expertise in whatever field we’re bringing employees in for. We try really hard to find people who are connected to the community, who want to be here. And for us, it’s the Washington County area.” He says they look for people who are connected to their communities from the South Hills down to Greene and Fayette Counties and who want to be here. “We are a little different than a downtown Pittsburgh firm. We like to have a work-life balance, but we do our best to be able to maintain that for our people, too.” Steele says the type of law they practice lends itself more to that since they focus on business, corporate and real estate law. “We have school solicitors that work at the firm that we’ve had that work for a long time, municipal lawyers, the real estate, the energy, employment lawyers,” he adds. “ So it’s usually most of our work is during the day.” Despite the long hours sometimes required, Peacock Keller still does its best to help employees find time for outside activities, community and civic obligations and family life. “When I got hired, I was shocked,” laughs Steele. “I was coaching sports for my kids, and sometimes you gotta try and leave a little early, right? I brought it up, and they said, ‘Just go. Go ahead.’ I’ve never heard of anything like that at a law firm.”
Those community connections have served Peacock Keller well over the last century, and Steele says there are no plans to change as they begin the next 100 years. “There is a residual out there,” he says. “They see us. We’ve had so many attorneys who have been presidents of the local bar association. I’ll be the president next year. We’ve had people involved in that, always over time.”
How has the firm survived and thrived for an entire century? “It’s really the people. Mr. Peacock and Mr. Keller really set that standard,” says Steele. “And the big part of what they’ve done, and I think both of them, their principles were to have a successful firm. You can’t just have legal expertise. You have to have integrity, and you have to have dedication to your clients in the community. And the two of them really went to a level that probably can’t really be matched again in today’s time of that level of involvement in the community.” They passed that legacy on to their colleagues and employees, who remain very involved
As for the key to longevity, Steele stresses it’s all about their people. “Our goal, obviously, is to keep it going for the next 100 years. But it really does all come down to the people that we had in the past and that we have now, our attorneys, paralegals and other staff. That’s what’s made it work for this long, and to try and transition all this stuff through COVID and all of these technology changes. It’s a lot for a small firm and a small town firm, but that’s what we’re going to try and keep doing.”
Charles Keller Managing partner Thomas Steele
Ralph Peacock
Client reception on September 18 with past and present attorneys
A photo of where Peacock Keller is now located in the Crossroads building
A picture of the original building where Peacock Keller resided
A very Washington County Christmas: Markets, magic and more to explore in December
Photos and story courtesy of the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency
From the nostalgic charm of Canonsburg’s Old Fashioned Christmas to bargain-hunting at the All-Clad Factory Sale, to magical rides aboard the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum’s Santa Trolley and carols a-plenty at Old Schoolhouse Players and the Washington Symphony Orchestra, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in Washington County.
Leading the holiday charge is Canonsburg’s Old Fashioned Christmas (December 5-6), a beloved tradition that brings the whole community together in creating a bigger and better event every year. Recognized as one of the most “Hallmark-esque” destinations in Pennsylvania, what once began as a simple tree lighting has grown into a holiday spectacle that welcomes thousands of visitors annually to Canonsburg’s streets, transformed into a winter wonderland just for the occasion.
With a Christmas market featuring more than 60 artisan and craft vendors, an impressive food court serving seasonal favorites and plenty of children’s activities to make lasting memories, Canonsburg’s Old Fashioned Christmas is the perfect kickoff to the holiday season. Families can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa, live entertainment and twinkling displays throughout town—making this two-day celebration a must-do holiday tradition.
The factory sale is highly anticipated for cookware, bakeware, gourmet accessories, electrics and even products from All-Clad’s sister brands like Krups, which are discounted up to 70%. Shoppers can browse factory seconds (products with minor defects), overstock and even discontinued items. Attendees may also enjoy product demonstrations and sneak previews of upcoming releases while waiting for their shopping group number to be called. For foodies, home cooks, deal lovers and anyone who appreciates high-quality cookware, the All-Clad Factory Sale is a bucketlist event.
Last but not least is Santa Trolley (November 28–30; December 6–7, 13–14 and 20–21) at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. Children and adults alike will find holiday joy aboard one of the museum’s antique streetcars, where they’ll meet Santa, share their wish lists and pose for photos during a memorable ride. Afterward, guests can explore interactive exhibits, marvel at the holiday train and Lego displays and enjoy cookies and hot chocolate for a warm ending to a festive trolley adventure.
The same weekend marks the return of the All-Clad Factory Sale (December 5–6), a heavily anticipated event for All-Clad fans and bargain hunters from across the country. Once referred to as the “seconds sale,” the event has evolved significantly since its early days at the All-Clad manufacturing facility on Morganza Road in Cecil Township. In fact, the sale has grown so popular that it’s outgrown several venues before landing in a 40,000-square-foot building at the Washington County Fairgrounds, allowing even more deal-seekers through the doors during its two-day run. The December sale is the second of 2025, after the company revived its summer sale earlier this year following a several-year hiatus.
There are also a few concerts and shows you will not want to miss happening during the holiday season, starting with Nuncrackers (December 5-14) at Old Schoolhouse Players in Hickory. A holiday comedy for the whole family, Nuncrackers is filled with “Nunsense” humor, classic carols, a “Secret Santa” and an uproarious take on Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet.
Next, make sure to scoop tickets up for Ho Ho Ho with the WSO – With a Tropical Twist (December 20-21) early, as this annual holiday concert sells out fast. This year’s tropical twist comes in the form of beloved holiday classics blended with sunny sounds from islands, so no matter if attendees are dreaming of a white Christmas or a green one, this holiday concert has something for everyone.
To learn more about these events and explore the full holiday calendar, visit GoWashCo.com.
More than numbers: A people-first approach to financial planning
By Haven Stetor
Photos courtesy of the Richards, Wingett, Nedley Group
Planning finances can seem like a daunting task for many, but for the Richards, Wingett, Nedley Group of Baird Private Wealth Management, it is an opportunity to teach clients, build relationships and provide a sense of clarity. With more than 132 years of combined experience and deep roots in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia, the team works hard to build long-lasting relationships that mean more than just numbers on a page.
The practice is made up of three financial advisors: Gary Richards of Bergholz, Ohio, Cory Wingett of Weirton, West Virginia and Jeff Nedley of Washington, Pennsylvania. They are supported by two licensed client service associates, Melanie Harless of Beaver Falls and Heather Reynolds of Cannonsburg. Together, they work to support a variety of clients from individuals
and families to businesses and organizations, offering personalized planning that helps everybody feel confident and knowledgeable about their finances at every stage.
For Jeff Nedley, one of the biggest misconceptions about financial advising is that advisors are there to sell something. He explained that he prefers a more holistic approach to business, asking questions that help him understand a client’s background, goals and interests before discussing finances.
“We don’t start with what to buy,” Nedley said. “We start with the person. The more we understand about someone’s life, the better we can help shape their financial future.”
That philosophy translates to every interaction that the team has with clients. Whether someone is preparing to retire, thinking about their children’s future, or navigating a significant life change, each advisor takes a broad look at their needs and then pinpoints the approach that will best support them. When meeting with the team, clients can expect plenty of questions, from long-term goals to the biggest stressors in their lives. They believe that understanding a person’s story is the only way to create a plan that actually works for them.
Over time, many of these relationships grow into genuine friendships. Nedley shared that listening, educating and staying involved in clients’ lives helps the team continue to adapt and change plans as needed. Some clients meet with their advisor once a year, while others come in more frequently depending on their situation.
As the financial world shifts, clients’ needs
Melanie Harless
Jeff Nedley
have shifted too. Nedley noted that older clients are thinking more about longevity, long-term care and how to protect their families. Younger clients are looking for insight and easy access to their online tools. Baird offers an app and online tools where clients can view balances, upload documents, schedule appointments and get updates at their convenience. Behind the scenes, their cybersecurity team works to keep client information safe, and the practice offers resources like ID Watchdog for added peace of mind.
Even with these tools, Nedley emphasized that most people still want guidance, not guesswork. “There’s a lot of information out there,” he said. “Some of it is helpful, and some of it can steer people in the wrong direction. We want to help cut through that and give people confidence about their decisions.”
Outside of the office, the group stays active in their communities. Nedley mentioned their ongoing support for the
Washington Symphony Orchestra, the Bradford House and CASA, and noted that team members also participate in local charities and events within their respective communities in Ohio and West Virginia.
The practice has continued to grow over the past three years, partly due to Baird’s expansion and partly to the relationships the team has built. With licenses in 32 states, they can support clients nationwide while maintaining the personal, relationship-driven approach that sets their practice apart.
In the end, what makes the Richards, Wingett, Nedley group stand out isn’t just their experience, but their belief that good financial planning starts with knowing the client. They take the time to learn someone’s story, understand their hopes and fears and build a plan to support them. It is a holistic approach that has shaped their practice from the start and keeps their loyal clients coming back through every stage of life.
Heather Reynolds Gary Richards
Corey Wingett
Ready for the next step?
Are you working overtime on your business needs? With First Federal of Greene County’s Commercial Lending Department, your next step is closer than you think. From real estate-secured purchases to refinancing, your loan starts and stays here. We put you first by offering personalized service and quick, local decision-making backed by a century of lending experience. Partner with us, and we’ll help you take care of business.
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT: SOUTH WEST REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Advancing regional growth and leadership
By Executive Director Mandi Pryor
The South West Regional Chamber of Commerce continues to experience steady growth, now representing over 500 member organizations across more than ten municipalities in Allegheny and Washington Counties. Our mission remains focused on supporting local governments, businesses and families — key stakeholders in driving long-term economic development throughout the region.
On November 6, the Chamber proudly hosted its sixth annual Excellence Awards fund raiser, celebrating the achievements of over 50 outstanding business es. This community-driven event saw more than 1,000 public votes cast to rec ognize local excellence. Top honors included:
Business of the Year: Dollar Bank - South Hills
Man of the Year: James Lombardo, Dollar BankSouth Hills Woman of the Year: Dominique Murray, Dominique Murray
Photography
In addition to celebrating business excellence, the chamber deepened its commitment to leadership development by partnering with Lead ership Washington County. This collaboration offers chamber members access to an immersive ed ucational experience designed to cultivate leadership skills and regional awareness, under the guidance of LWC Executive Director Trish Romano.
ed my network and deepened my commitment to our community. I encourage every SWR Chamber member to take this step, not only to grow as a leader but to build meaningful connections that can elevate your business and impact our region for years to come.”
The chamber is proud to support this initiative, recognizing its value in fostering collaboration, broadening perspectives and strengthening ties between emerging leaders and the business community. Alumna Nina Pompeani reflected on her experience:
Mandi Pryor, executive director of the South West Regional Chamber of Commerce, shared her personal endorsement of the program:
“Going through Leadership Washington County was a game-changer for me — it challenged my thinking, expand-
“LWC led me to understand my strengths and how to leverage my skills to be an effective and impactful leader. I have learned so much about myself, how to create meaning in my work and how to better serve my community.”
Furthering its outreach and member engagement, the chamber recently launched the Ambassador Program, led by Denise Marasco of Howard Hanna and VP Committee Chair David Ely of Bridge Insurance Group. This initiative introduces a select group of dedicated volunteers who will serve as liaisons between the chamber and the broader community, offering enhanced support to members and advancing the chamber’s mission.
Through these strategic programs and events, the South West Regional Chamber of Commerce remains committed to empowering local leaders, celebrating business excellence and fostering a vibrant, connected regional economy.
Michelle L. Hoffmann
Jodi L Landucci
Free Kitchen & Bath Design Support for Contractors
Koval Supply helps contractors save time and avoid delays by handling kitchen and bath design and product selection in-house — at no charge.
Our experienced team works directly with your client in our showroom so layouts, finishes, and fixtures are finalized before install, not during it.
• Free kitchen & bath design for your projects
• Showroom support for your client
• Fewer delays and change orders
• Family-owned
• Third generation experience
Driven to make a difference: Employees rally behind local nonprofits through Driven by Hope
By Emily King
Since 2024, the ObserverReporter has been partnering with Washington Auto Mall for the Driven by Hope campaign. This collaboration aims to support and recognize nonprofit organizations that are doing vital work in the local community. Driven by Hope also strengthens bonds among coworkers and gives employees of the Observer-Reporter and Washington Auto Mall a greater sense of connection to the community in which they live and work.
The recipients of the award receive both a financial award from Washington Auto Mall and a publicity package from the Observer-Reporter, which includes an article featuring the organization and social media initiatives to boost visibility. Recipients are chosen by a committee that includes employees from the Observer-Reporter and Washington Auto Mall.
Christopher Oliastro, sales consultant for Washington Auto Mall, is a proud member of Driven by Hope’s selection committee. He lives in North Strabane with his family, but he is originally from South Fayette.
“I always went closer to the city and into Allegheny County for things to do or organizations to get involved with,” he says. Driven by Hope allowed him to become more deeply involved in Washington County.
“Now I find myself exploring more of Washington County and all of the things that make it a special place to work, live and play,” he says.
Every few months, the committee meets for a roundtable discussion. Members suggest local nonprofits, and the committee decides which organizations to support in the coming months.
“The best part of the process is seeing what nonprofits are out there and how they each contribute to the community with their respective agendas,” says Oliastro.
Collaborating with other committee members has strengthened working relationships among employees, as they come together for the common cause of supporting the community.
“We may have different opinions on what organization to recognize, but they really are all great in their own way. It helps build personal relationships with other committee members because you can see what makes them tick and why they want to be a part of the community,” says Oliastro.
“The more you know people on a personal level, the more comfortable it is on a professional level to work together.”
Almost two years since its inception, Driven by Hope has been successful in identifying and recognizing a wide variety of nonprofits in the Washington area and introducing the community to the many people who do good every day. Recent recipients include the Washington Area Senior Center, a small community theater, a nonprofit that supports families touched by congenital heart defects and the Trevor Popeck Foundation, started by a high school senior to raise funds for children who must undergo eye surgeries for vision impairment.
Many of the employees’ involvement goes beyond committee meetings, and Oliastro has enjoyed rolling up his sleeves at some of the events that Driven by Hope supports.
“The Running of the Wools was a ton of fun and the most memorable event that I’ve attended,” he says. The event, which took place in the spring, is a celebration of Washington County’s agricultural heritage. The festivities, which included a sheep race down Main Street, supported the Washington Business District and brought more foot traffic downtown. Many of Washington Auto Mall’s employees got involved, and the car dealership even sponsored one of the sheep in the race.
“We also got to spend a lot of time with other committee members that we typically don’t see because we are at different locations. It was a great event where we had a chance for some team bonding,” says Oliastro.
Working with Driven by Hope has been an eye-opening experience for Oliastro.
“I really had no idea how much Driven by Hope would be appreciated and accepted by the community. A lot of the organizations work on very small budgets, so to receive an influx from a donation and help them get closer to their goals is very humbling,” he says.
“Since moving to Washington County, I received a new appreciation of how close-knit the community is and how they all support each other and the community in their own ways,” says Oliastro.
Not only has the partnership between the Observer-Reporter and Washington Auto Mall increased support for the chosen nonprofits, but it has also helped connect residents in need with organizations that can help.
Oliastro is hopeful that Driven by Hope can thrive long-term and become even more impactful with the help of employees and the community. They are always looking for new nonprofits to feature.
“We encourage other nonprofits to stop by one of the Washington Auto Mall stores and drop off any information they may have for a nonprofit they may run or volunteer for,” he says.
Courtesy of Washington Auto Mall
From left, Chris Oliastro, Jennifer Trapuzzano, Zach Washinski, Sara Hall and Natalie Gloady
New naming partnership for Mon Valley Alliance and cfsbank
By Kristin Emery
Photos courtesy of cfsbank
The Mon Valley Alliance launched its Business Resource Center at 235 West Main St. in Monongahela nearly one year ago, with a goal and vision to support existing and future small businesses in the Mid Mon Valley region. Over the past year, the physical space of the Mon Valley Alliance Foundation has hosted programs such as educational opportunities, job retraining, technical assistance and networking to help small businesses launch, grow and thrive. Now, the BRC is getting a financial boost for its mission and programs thanks to a new partnership with cfsbank that will last over the next decade.
The Mon Valley Alliance Foundation and cfsbank announced the collaboration at the end of October, with cfsbank as the naming rights sponsor of the BRC. It will now be known as the cfsbank Business Resource Center with both organizations sharing a commitment to empowering small businesses and driving economic growth across the Mid Mon Valley region.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Mon Valley Alliance to support a space that empowers local businesses and strengthens our community,” says cfsbank President and CEO John Gill. “This center reflects our shared vision of economic vitality and opportunity for all who live and work in the Mon Valley.”
A community resource
The first half of the naming rights funds will be used to make substantial improvements to the BRC’s footprint in downtown Monongahela, including exterior upgrades to the building and the surrounding area. The remaining naming rights funds
Above: From left, Maddie Codeluppi, business development manager at the Mon Valley Alliance, Danielle Maurer, chief operating and retail officer with cfsbank, Clint Will, Mon Valley Alliance, John Gill, cfsbank CEO, Abby Stark, Mon Valley Alliance director of strategy and development, Jamie Colecchi, Mon Valley Alliance CEO, and Jed Perko, cfsbank CFO.
will be used over the remaining ten years. “We were building our development fundraising plan, and we just thought that mix might be a great opportunity to offer the naming rights to what we think is an important asset now,” says Jamie Colecchi, CEO of the Mon Valley Alliance and Mon Valley Alliance Foundation. “We just went to cfsbank, and I asked them if they’d be interested in one-year naming rights, and very quickly the discussion took shape to be 10 years. Our missions and visions align, and what we’re setting out to do is certainly something that they seem to support.”
The BRC provides walk-in support every Tuesday, offering guidance in areas such as marketing, website development, business planning, human resources, government procurement, access to capital and grant assistance. “To achieve this, we’ve forged partnerships with several organizations to ensure small businesses have access to a wide variety of support and programs,” says Colecchi. “No handouts, just the ‘hand up’ that we all need from time to time.” Small businesses play a key role in building strong, thriving communities and local
Staff from both cfsbank and Mon Valley Alliance look over plans for improvements to the Business Resource Center
entrepreneurs provide a significant share of job creation and drive wealth circulation within the area. By keeping money within a community, small businesses advance economic stability and foster long-term growth. “We’ve always had a partnership with the Mon Valley Alliance,” says cfsbank CEO John Gill. “We’ve been doing their town-to-town mini grant program for many years. When it’s something that will be so beneficial to the community, like the Business Resource Center, which gives new and existing businesses a place to percolate ideas and access resources, it just really speaks to our mission as a community bank to invest in things that are good for our community.” Over the past year, the BRC has conducted two workforce development classes, graduating 24 students. “We counsel businesses, individuals, whatever they’re looking to achieve, we really sit down and help them and bring resources together,” explains Colecchi. “That’s not available down in the Mon Valley, and now people are taking advantage of those connections that we’re able to provide.” He points out the BRC’s name is accurate: a resource center for the small business community. “The resources are just an open doorway here for capacity building, for community, for small businesses and nonprofits. Anyone looking for help, growing and moving our region forward. This is the place to come and start those conversations.”
Funding the future
The first part of the naming partnership funds will allow the MVA to make significant improvements to the building’s accessibility and aesthetics and to make additional interior improvements to activate more space. “If you look at all the things the Mon Valley Alliance is going to help the Mon Valley, I think we view this as part of our sort of social responsibility,” Gill says. “We’re a mutual bank, not publicly traded. We don’t have shareholders, so we really look for ways to give our money back, instead of dividends, investing in the community.” Gill adds that cfsbank has had a long relationship with the MVA, and its leadership really believes in its efforts to help the community. “So we were very excited to partner with them to get naming rights and really show our commitment, especially to the Mon Valley,” Gill says. “I mean, most banks have sort of abandoned the Mon Valley, and I think this is another way to show our commitment that we’re going to be here for a long time.”
For more information about the cfsbank Business Resource Center, please visit www.mvabrc.org or contact brc@monvalleyalliance.org.
Jamie Colecchi and John Gill inside the Business Resource Center
MEET OUR 2025 BEST OF THE BEST WINNERS!
In Medicine
We Restore Lives
Robotic Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer
When it comes to pancreatic cancer, expertise matters.
The WVU Cancer Institute’s Robotic Pancreatic Surgery Program is ranked among the Top 25 in the nation by Castle Connolly, a recognition that reflects our outcomes, innovation, and patient-centered approach.
Here, you’ll find advanced therapies, groundbreaking research, and a care team that understands both the medical and emotional challenges of a diagnosis. You don’t have to leave the state for nationally recognized care—it’s right here close to home.
