HONORING ONE MAN WHO IMPACTED THE LIVES OF MANY: Coraopolis Train Station will pay tribute to the legacy of Coach Fred Milanovich, Sr.

Just as Coach Fred Milanovich, Sr. was central to the success of countless students and athletes during his tenure as football and basketball coach at Coraopolis High School between 1945-1960, the Coraopolis Train Station was essential to the development of the town of Coraopolis upon its founding in 1896. 

 Thanks in large part to a significant gift made by the late coach's son and his wife - Fred & Linda Milanovich, Jr. - Coach Milanovich's legacy will live on through the Milanovich Center for Community Connection at the Coraopolis Train Station, creating gathering space for positive community activity, learning opportunities, and gatherings of all kinds. The impact of his life will spur economic growth and continue to transform lives in Coraopolis for generations to come. 

 The groundbreaking of the center was celebrated on Saturday, April 23rd with a press conference at the station led by Project Chairman and former Coraopolis Mayor Shawn Reed featuring guest speakers Pennsylvania State Representative Anita Kulik, former player and student of Coach Milanovich, Edward Elder, who went on to become superintendent of Center Area School District and President of PA Cyber Charter School, and Fred Milanovich, Jr. who spoke of his father's ties and fond memories of his time in Coraopolis.

 Fred Milanovich, Jr. offered the following statement:

“In his later years my father’s conversation often drifted back to his days in Cory. Quite simply,  he loved the community and cherished his experiences there!”

Through this support, the Milanovich family joins the train station’s dedicated individual donor 
base and key partners including Congressman Conor Lamb's Community Impact Grant Program, the Allegheny Foundation, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development Keystone Communities Grant Program, and the Pennsylvania Cultural Infrastructure and Tourism Fund. The CCDC plans to launch a public capital campaign to raise the remaining funds for the project in late 2022 which will give an opportunity for local companies, individuals, and supporters to select various naming opportunities including pavers in the station's porte-cochere. 

Coraopolis Train Station Construction Manager Ken Faux of Imperial Construction, PA State Representative Anita Kulik, Project Chairman Shawn Reed, Fred Milanovich, Jr., and Edward Elder.

Members of the Milanovich Family gathered for the press conference including Milana and Larry Milosh of Moon Township and Kristen Milanovich of Parkway West Career and Technology Center, among others.

Fred Milanovich, Jr. spoke about the decision to honor his late father's legacy and the impact the station will have once complete. 

Success is Brewing on 5th Avenue: Cobblehaus Celebrates 5 Years

When Scott Mills thinks about the next five years for Cobblehaus Brewing Company, he sees beer, beer, and more beer. Since first opening the brewery in April 2017, he and his business partner continue to grow the brewery, expand their brewing process, and increase their ties within the Coraopolis community. 

Owner Scott Mills with bartender, Sam, behind the bar.

 “We are constantly trying to listen to our customers on what they like and what they may not prefer. We are always looking for other ways to allow everyone to enjoy the brewery and give them reasons to come out and enjoy some time with friends and neighbors,” said Mills.

In honor of the milestone year, Cobblehaus has a full slate of activities during their 5th anniversary week, which will begin Wednesday, April 6th and run through Sunday, April 10th. (full calendar of events can be found at the end of this article).

Mills said the business has seen a lot of growth in its first five years of operation. Building on its existing taproom, the owners added two additional seating areas that can be rented out for private events, more entertainment activities including darts and pinball machines, and a “Mug Club” which has grown to 145 members - much larger than originally expected. 

They have also worked to refine and expand their brewing process, making improvements and acquiring equipment that offers more powerful brewing, increases their capacity for more lager styles, and allows for pre-packaged canning for take-out - a capability that was especially handy in the thick of COVID-19 restrictions.

According to Mills, the pandemic kept them on their toes as they worked through challenges to ensure they were providing a safe environment for their workers and customers, while keeping the brewery in operation despite food requirements and shutdown mandates during typical prime times.

He continued, “At the beginning we were restricted to only ‘to-go’ sales and allowable seating capacities were limited. This was an issue for us since we do not have outdoor seating like many other breweries in the area. We were very lucky to have members of the community allow us to utilize neighboring properties for pop-up taprooms.”

As with many of the local businesses and residents alike, Cobblehaus is ready to put the pandemic behind them. Mills said they are encouraged by all the positive changes they have seen in the Coraopolis Business District in the last five years.

“There has been a lot of growth with the number and variety of new businesses that have come to town. What we have not seen change is the love that the community has for this town.  Everyone we talk to seems to go out of their way to come to the businesses and has a real desire to see everyone succeed. We are very happy that we chose to bring the brewery to Coraopolis,said Mills.

Looking ahead, Cobblehaus hopes to create an Oktoberfest Celebration in downtown Coraopolis in the coming years. In fact, Mills would love to see another brewery come to town to take part in the planning.

My wife and I make a lot of trips to breweries, and we love it when there are multiple breweries in a close area. It makes the town a destination,” said Mills.

Cobblehaus currently offers a rotation of food trucks on the weekends, but would also like to see more permanent options in town.

“A variety of restaurants helps bring more people out and about,” he said.

Cobblehaus Brewery is currently open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4pm-9pm, Fridays from 3pm-10pm, Saturdays from 12pm-10pm, and Sundays from 12pm-5pm. Stop by 1021 5th Avenue in Coraopolis for a drink during business hours and make sure to check out the full roster of anniversary activities in April.

 

Cobblehaus Brewery Anniversary Week Festivities:

Wednesday, April 6th:

Monthly Food Feast

Thursday, April 7th:

Trivia with special Cobblehaus questions and prizes above and beyond typical trivia prizes. 

Friday, April 8th:

Anniversary Beer tapping along with a one-of-a-kind glass giveaway. 

Saturday, April 9th:

Tapping their 2-barrel aged Belgian Tripels and a special “Lucky Me” flight. 

Sunday, April 9th:

Closed to the public for their annual Mug Club reception (open to all renewal and new members). 

 

Additional specials will run throughout the week – check out their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for details and an official events calendar: Home - Cobblehaus Brewing Company

Get to know the new Mayor of Coraopolis, Michael Dixon

The new year brought a new mayor for the Borough of Coraopolis. Michael Dixon succeeded Shawn Reed on January 1st. Join us for 10 questions as we get to know Mayor Dixon…

Dixon’s term went into effect January 1, 2022.

Q: How did you feel when it became clear that you were going to be the next Mayor of Coraopolis?

A: I remember, it was after midnight on election night, and it felt oddly surprising. I went into it extremely humble and came out of it even more humble because of the response from the voters. I was shocked. I never thought in a million years that I could just ‘be me’ and have something like that happen. It is an honor.

Q: You are a month into your term; what do you enjoy so far about the role? 

A: Right now, I’m just focused on listening and learning. I’m surrounded by a team of experts who have been doing this a long time and they have a lot of knowledge to transfer to me. I’ve been apologetic to Ray [McCutcheon, Borough Manager] because I’m asking him a lot of questions [laughs]. I don’t know - but I want to know because I care. 

Q: What made you choose Coraopolis? 

A: I’m from a tiny town in Washington County called Southview; just past McDonald and Hickory, PA. It’s basically farm country. It was an old coal mine, right on the Montour Trail, which used to be the railroad. 

The first reason my wife Heather and I chose to live in Coraopolis is because of its convenient location. We got married in 2013 and decided it was time to move in 2015. Coraopolis brought us a lot closer to work, as we were both working in Wexford at the time. We were first-time homebuyers and Coraopolis ticked off all the boxes: a convenient location and we found a great deal on a quiet street with nice neighbors. In fact, when we pulled in to look at our house on Stratford Avenue a woman was walking her dog and told us “You need to buy this house right now, it's the best street in town.” We were sold!

Q: Why did you decide to run for Mayor?

A: The mayorship wasn’t an original consideration in the beginning for me. I had made some serious life changes in 2019 - mainly taking control of my health after having weight loss surgery. Prior to that, I would not have physically been able to do it. It changed my life; my outlook and what was important. Working for the man for so many years, I never really felt like my heart was in something that mattered. Now I do. 

Being involved in my community in the simplest way is how it started. I wanted to give back and a friend mentioned that there might be an open council seat in Ward 4. I started looking into how I could become involved, and I attended my first Coraopolis NAACP branch meeting. That meeting just so happened to be where Mayor Shawn Reed announced he would not be seeking a second term. I had a week to get all of my signatures, but I know I made the right decision. It was all very serendipitous. 

Q: What Borough projects are you most excited about in the coming year(s)? 

A: Definitely Riverfront Park. Ray McCutcheon has done an incredible amount of work to make sure we are ready to go. I’m amazed at what we'll be able to accomplish in phases 1 and 2 when we break ground later this year. It’s that type of greenspace that will pay dividends for years to come and will draw people into our town. 

The second thing is the Allegheny Health Network sports complex. It’s a little bit chaotic right now, but once it's complete it's really going to draw some attention to this area - even just people traveling in from other communities and seeing all the improvements that are being made in town. It’s going to shine a light on Cory that we haven’t had in at least the last twenty years. 

Pictured above with Dana Watkins, Mayor Dixon signed his first proclamation on February 9, 2022 to celebrate Black History Month in Coraopolis.

Q: What do you wish more people knew about Coraopolis?

A: The strength of this community is so amazing and so wonderful, but so quiet. I didn’t really feel that until this past summer. All I had to do was say, “Hi, I’m Mike” and that’s all it took - I was literally wrapped in all the communal joy that this town has to offer. It’s been really overwhelming and positive. I want the whole world to know that we have this wonderful little community of strong women and minority-owned businesses that are just flourishing. It gives me such pride to know that I've been the person that was chosen to represent this community to the rest of Pennsylvania. 

It’s a big responsibility and I feel obligated to say, “come and look at what we are doing.” This is proof that small business and small communities can be strong and be united and still grow without the influence of big business. I want to do everything I can to help that continue and grow even more.

Q: What advice do you have for people who want to get involved in the community? 

 A: The best advice I can give is just to reach out, call me directly and I will find a way for you to get involved. We need that engagement more than ever. I think one of our biggest hurdles is communication. Still haven’t quite figured that out but we’re working on it. The Borough is doing so much. More people need to know about it and how they can get involved. 

Q: What is your day job, outside of being Mayor?

 A: I’m a Lead Software Engineer for Aderant, which is a legal software company based in Atlanta. I’ve worked in the software industry since about 2012 and prior to that I worked in both healthcare and IT. My wife Heather is a program analyst for Connective Rx, connecting people with benefits and savings programs. We both work from home, which is nice.

Q: Tell me more about your background and education:

A: Originally, I was going to be commissioned into the Army as an Officer. I was unable to complete the course because of medical issues. I was crushed but it turned out to be better because I ended up doing what I was supposed to be doing. I finished my bachelor’s degree in 2003 at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Several years later, I was hired by Cigna Group Insurance. They have a great tuition program that allowed me to go to Pittsburgh Technical College for computer networking and programming courses. I then went on to complete a Master of Science in Internet Information Systems from Robert Morris University in 2012.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

We do a lot of walking and hiking with our dogs. In fact, in October 2020, I set a goal for myself to commemorate my weight-loss journey of walking out of my house in Coraopolis back home to Southview via the Montour Trail. Heather and some close friends walked with me. It was 22 miles and took 12 hours - we started at 6 am and ended at 6:30 pm - it was a personal milestone for me.

I like to cook and Heather loves to bake - if you ever need a cake she’d be all in. We also like crafting and traveling. At the end of a busy work week I like to play strategy video games - my go-to is Civilization.

Q: What are some of your favorite spots to frequent in the Coraopolis Business District?

A: Absolutely #1 is Cobblehaus – I became an amateur brewer during the pandemic so I’m really into micro brewing. Heather and I just joined the VFW 402 as social members, and we go there from time to time to play BINGO.

I’m also really excited about the Honduran café that’s opening soon. I do think Coraopolis has a shortage of sit-down restaurants, though, and would love to see more move into town. 

 

Do you have a question that wasn’t answered above? Mayor Dixon wants to hear from you.

Contact him at: Mayor@CoraopolisPa.com

LOCAL BUSINESSES LIGHT UP THE STREETS OF CORAOPOLIS

In honor of the annual "Cory Bright" shop local campaign, business owners decked out their store windows, doors, and signage in colorful and festive holiday decor. 

Coraopolis Community Development Corporation holds a friendly competition and tallies votes received from customers and fans between 12/1 and 12/15, while encouraging people to get out to the Coraopolis Business District, check out the window displays, and SUPPORT LOCAL. 

More than 400 votes have been received and after careful tabulation, we are ready to announce the standings. Although, they are ALL winners in our book.

First place winner receives a trophy and bragging rights for the year to come. Second and third place winners receive a gift certificate to each other's businesses.

Now, without further ado...the winners are:

Browse the gallery below to see all the photos our elves snapped while out and about!

Vintage Revival’s Tracey McArdle is a collector of stories and nostalgia

“I should have been an American History teacher,” Tracey McArdle mused. The owner of Vintage Revival, an antique store and customer favorite in the Coraopolis Business District, is fascinated by the stories behind the merchandise that she sells.

Pictured above: Tracey McArdle, owner of Vintage Revival.

“I just love the different eras,” she said. “People are missing the boat when they buy new retail. Things that have lasted over 100 years will last you another hundred.”

Tracey’s love of antiquing began as a child when she was introduced to it by her father. After more than a decade in the medical field, a friend took her to a flea market and it reignited her childhood passion. Shortly thereafter, she started building her personal collection, which would eventually become the base for her first antique shop, Swoon, which was located on Butler Street in Lawrenceville.

After a four year run and some life changes, Tracey chose to close Swoon and took on a new gig at Off the Avenue Antiques in Coraopolis, working for friend and former owner Jim Barricella. It was during this time that she decided she wanted to lay down some of her own commercial roots in the Coraopolis Business District.

“Lawrenceville was great but it's spread out. It didn’t have the foot traffic that Coraopolis has,” Tracey said. “I had been wanting my own spot here for a long time.”

When Vintage Revival’s original space became available at the corner of Mill Street and 5th Avenue, she jumped on it. Though having previously owned a business, she said taking the leap was still nerve wracking.

“Sometimes you just have to take that chance, jump in with both feet, and hope that the heart and soul you put in is enough to make a go of it,” she said.

With McArdle’s unique touch, Vintage Revival has become a customer favorite in town due to its eclectic mix of antique furniture and furnishings, glassware, candles, and hand-made soaps. She also sells artisan jewelry, including some of her own hand-made vintage assemblage.

Tracey said she feels fortunate to have so much encouragement from her husband, Michael, a Coraopolis native who works in the oil and gas industry. She also credits the feeling of camaraderie that exists among local business owners as being hugely helpful to her.

“[When you’re on your own] You really need a lot of emotional support. We’re all friends, everyone pitches in and helps each other when we need it. And it’s not just the antique shops, it's the other business owners in the area as well,” she said.

According to McArdle, that support was needed even more when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and she took most of her business online.

“I still haven’t bounced back from being closed for 2.5 months. If it wasn’t for Ray [Kinneman of Emma Jean’s Relics] and me doing the Facebook Live sales I would have had to close permanently,” she said.

Though she still worries about the future, she is excited about her recent move and for the things yet to come. Last month, the shop made a move down the street to a space located at 934 5th Avenue, directly beside Patina & Soul, Emma Jean’s Relics, and One Man’s Junk. They call it “Antique Row.”

She also looks forward to holding jewelry-making classes in the new year.

“My new space has a back room that is perfect for a 2-3 hour class once or twice a month,” she said. “Maybe once we’re through the holidays and people are looking for something to do.”

For now, Tracey is enjoying her favorite season by decorating her windows and store vignettes with perfectly curated - and sometimes spooky - fall décor, including “creepy” vintage baby dolls and doll parts.

Loyal customers will know that she is also an animal lover, doting over her rescue bulldogs and pugs, and a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan. She and husband Michael are season ticket holders.

“That’s my happy place. We have a tailgate crew. God, I love it,” she said.

As for Coraopolis, McArdle said she is encouraged by the new businesses opening up and the people that come to town through the Second Saturdays concert series.

“I’d love to see some more retail in town,” she commented. “There’s just so much opportunity here that hasn’t been tapped into yet.”

Vintage Revival is located at 934 5th Avenue in the Coraopolis Business District. Hours of operation are Wednesday-Sunday 11am-4pm, with an extra hour on Saturdays. Find them online at www.shopvintagerevival.com and @VintageRevivalHome on Facebook.

Emma Jean’s Relics ranked #2 Best Antique Shop in Pittsburgh: Owner credits customers, community, and hard work with its success

Pictured above, Ray Kinneman, owner of Emma Jean’s Relics.

Pictured above, Ray Kinneman, owner of Emma Jean’s Relics.

Not surprising to those who know him well, a high school-aged Ray Kinneman was once named “Employee of the Month” for 11 months in a row at the now closed Crafton K-Mart, his first job and where he initially fell in love with retail. As an active business owner and dedicated food pantry volunteer, some might describe the owner of Emma Jean’s Relics as a workaholic. 

“Both my parents were local council people and very involved. I get my work ethic from my father and my community service from my mother,” commented Ray. 

The Esplen native said he has always wanted to be his own boss. After working corporate jobs and running a dog rescue for pugs out of his home, he founded the business in 2010 as Emma Jean’s Attic in Crafton. But several years later, he had to close the store to care for his partner Bryan Sable’s mother and they began searching for a new home that could accommodate both their families. 

“It’s because of the C,” Ray laughed. “Bryan has this theory that all the towns with the best homes begin with the letter C. So, we looked in Crafton, Carnegie, Carrick…and ended up finding our home in Coraopolis.” 

Shortly after relocating to 15108, Ray reopened his shop on 5th Avenue in the business district under its revamped name. 

“The community we have here is better than other areas. I believe in the town and the people doing the work. Everyone is extremely supportive,” he said. “Coraopolis is also very affordable right now, which makes it reasonable to have a business here.”

Ray continues to build Emma Jean’s Relics through creative merchandising techniques, some of which he perfected while being closed last year during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m not one to sit and let the world happen around me. I first decided to help out as much as could with my community. Second, I moved my business online. Facebook Live sales became a new avenue for us. They became a form of entertainment as well as a great selling tool. It helped us survive Covid and created a new customer base. Most importantly, we built a family online.”

With an eclectic mix of antiques, home goods, fine china, toys, games, and records, the shop has amassed an impressive customer base and a social media reach of over 7,000. 

So in early 2021 when Pittsburgh City Paper began taking nominations for their annual “Best-Of” issue, Emma Jean’s Relics was on a lot of people’s minds. The store was recently named #2 Antique Shop in Pittsburgh, a remarkable feat and a nod to the hard work Ray and his team put in on a daily basis. 

“The honor is great but I don’t really care about awards. What is really humbling to me are the unsolicited nominations from my customers.” Ray continued, “The nominations are more amazing than winning. I appreciate the support every step of the way, I really do.”

Ray reciprocates that support to his fellow Coraopolis business owners, serving as a mentor and teacher to many.

“Owning your own business is empowering, but some days you can feel like a sinking ship and very alone. If something as simple as a conversation can help somebody and guide them, it's worth it to me,” he said. 

Ray continued, “Watching people grow is like having a child. I love teaching them how to use Facebook and helping build their websites. I’ve always been a believer that we are stronger together. If one of us fails, we all fail.”

As the Coraopolis Business District continues to grow, Ray’s goals include expanding the shop’s website presence with more online merchandise, developing an app, and continuing to help with community needs and events. 

“The CCDC has been great about increasing communication, coordinating events, and providing resources. Knowing that [the CCDC] is doing these things helps me focus on my business,” he said. 

Through continued communication and collaboration, Ray hopes that the community can work together to make it a smoother process for new businesses. He appreciates the strength, opinions, and support offered locally and looks forward to Emma Jean’s Relics being a part of Coraopolis for years to come. 

“I believe in the community we’ve all built together – I wouldn’t give that up.”

Emma Jean’s Relics is located at 930 5th Avenue in the Coraopolis Business District. Hours of operation are Wednesday-Sunday 10am-4pm, with an extra hour on Saturdays. Find them online at www.emmajeansrelics.com and on Facebook @emmajeansrelics. 

Tootsie’s: A Pittsburgh Top Ten Diner Where Customers are Called Friends

 

It can be said that some of our greatest ideas come to us while waiting at a stoplight. This was true for Coleen Baldwin more than seven years ago.

Coleen Baldwin (far right) pictured with her mother, Tootsie.

Coleen Baldwin (far right) pictured with her mother, Tootsie.

“My husband and I were sitting at the red light on 5th and Locust and we happened to notice a “for sale” sign on the building...it was always a dream of mine...” said Baldwin, who turned her dream into a reality by opening the doors of Tootsie’s Diner in 2015. 

“Tootsie” as you may have guessed it, is a beloved family member, “My mom’s name is Tootsie; we use a lot of her recipes at the diner,” Baldwin explained. 

With numerous awards and honors, Tootsie’s namesake is certainly making her proud. In Summer 2021, the family-run restaurant was ranked among Pittsburgh’s Top Ten Best Diners by UNATION and they have been featured twice on Pittsburgh Today Live, which has its own menu item called the PTL Scrambler. 

Though Baldwin is humbled by the recognition, she says it's really her support system who are to thank. 

Tootsie’s hardworking team.

Tootsie’s hardworking team.

“This is the hardest job I have ever had. I have to thank my staff and my husband for all their hard work, and our customers - who we call friends - because without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

Baldwin says that is especially true given the impact that the COVID-19 closures had on the restaurant industry as a whole. 

“I feel very lucky to have survived the hardest part of our journey,” she said.

The former executive vice president for a real estate title insurance company believes this is what she’s meant to do. 

“When I lost my job after 28 years I was devastated. But I figured it out, everything happens for a reason.” She continued, “This business has taught me so much about humanity. I’ve learned so much about people.”

One of her biggest lessons so far has been around staffing. “I wish someone would have told me that hiring people and keeping people would be so hard. Especially finding people that want to work as hard as we all do.”

She also said the early days of establishing the business were a learning opportunity. “It takes a while to get your feet under you.” For new business owners she suggests patience and hard work, and reassuringly adds “...it will come.”

From partnering with other business owners to running charitable events for special causes like the Scheuermann’s Disease Fund, being a good neighbor and supporting her peers is something that is very important to Baldwin.

“I’m very proud that I can help other businesses. I love to give back to other businesses and be part of the community. We’re so appreciative of their support.”

With a different special every weekend - like Banana Bread French Toast and San Diego Eggs Benedict, to name a few - there’s something for everyone at Tootsie’s. Plan a trip to the diner soon for breakfast or lunch to find your new favorite. 

Tootsie’s Diner is located at 701 5th Avenue in the Coraopolis Business District. Hours of operation are Tuesday-Saturday 7am-2pm and Sunday from 8am-2pm. Find them online at www.tootsiespghdiner.com.

 

The Vault Recording Studio Draws World-Renowned Musical Talent to the Island

 
Brett, Bob, and Dana McCutcheon with music legend Smokey Robinson.

Brett, Bob, and Dana McCutcheon with music legend Smokey Robinson.

Bob McCutcheon’s dream of running his own recording studio became a reality in 2016. After rising through the ranks of PricewaterhouseCoopers, the RMU alum retired as managing partner and decided to pursue his lifelong passion for music by opening The Vault Recording Studio on Neville Island. 

Now in its 5th year, the state-of-the-art studio boasts a Grammy-award winning and multi-platinum team of engineers and producers including Jimmy Hoyson (Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, etc.), Dave Hillis (Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, etc.), and Rob Deaner, sound designer for such brands as Coca Cola, UPMC, Dick’s Sporting Goods and motion pictures with Warner Brothers, Disney, and DreamWorks, to name a few. 

The impressive team is housed in the former PNC Bank (and later Cyrus Rice) building on Grand Avenue. In addition to the studio, they also run an independent record label called The Vault Records. Founder & CEO McCutcheon says The Vault is a family-run business. 

“My wife, Dana, is the heart and soul of the operation. Everyone knows she’s really the glue that holds it all together. My youngest son, Brett, is a music major at Slippery Rock University. He is an active performer, arranger and songwriter. He frequently records at the studio and also helps with video and social media,” said McCutcheon.

Bob and Dana’s oldest son, Ryan, passed away in 2017. The RMU sophomore loved working in the studio. Bob says all of their work, both at The Vault and through their charitable arm, The Rhythm19 Fund, is inspired by Ryan every day.

“Through the foundation, we do a lot of work with children and young adults to support and encourage music, art and education. [We] are particularly proud of the volunteer work we do. Prior to the pandemic, we hosted a number of local school group tours to the studio to meet and learn from professionals and gain exposure to a real studio environment,” he said.

The Rhythm19 Fund honors the life of late Ryan McCutcheon by supporting the musical ambitions of young people through scholarships and opportunities.

The Rhythm19 Fund honors the life of late Ryan McCutcheon by supporting the musical ambitions of young people through scholarships and opportunities.

Bob says one of their main goals is to develop an ecosystem of engineers, producers and aspiring artists in both music & film. 

“By providing access to a world-class recording facility, educational programs and industry resources, we will elevate the experience and enhance Pittsburgh’s music industry profile on a national scale,” he said. “And we can do it right here on Neville Island.”

McCutcheon feels that the Coraopolis area has a lot to offer. “It’s a vibrant community with so much potential for growth. Recognize that if we all work together and help lift and promote one another, we can all rise with the tide.”

Having served as a board member for countless nonprofit organizations including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and WQED Pittsburgh, Bob is no stranger to community work. 

“We need community based not-for-profits like CCDC to carry the torch and tell our collective stories in order to succeed. They are essential ambassadors for our community,” he said.

Though thriving, The Vault has not been immune to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“It was a huge blow to the music and entertainment industry,” Bob said. With local venues closed, many artists lost a primary source of income. Not to mention all of the venue owners and service staff. With the lack of live performances, many musicians turned back to creating and recording original music.”

Fortunately, the studio was able to record and operate after the initial shut down in a limited capacity. Twenty-twenty saw the team ramp up their charitable support through a number of projects and programs, including the opportunity to host a charity event with Smokey Robinson in the studio’s basement lounge. 

As a life-long music fan, Bob is often in awe of some of the industry icons who walk through the studio’s doors. 

“We have had a number of legendary producers such as Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel, David Bowie, Bon Jovi), Mike Clink (Guns N’ Roses, Whitesnake, Megadeath, UFO) and Ron Fair (Christina Agulera, Pussycat Dolls, Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga) work on projects with us over the last 3 years,” he commented.

The McCutcheon family’s “leap of faith,” as they call it, has taken Bob’s dream - and second career - to a whole new level. He adds, “If you aspire to own and operate your own business, don’t let anyone tell you you can’t. Trust your instinct, follow your passion and take a risk. You won’t be sorry!”

Check out The Vault Recording Studio online at www.thevaultrecording.com to take a virtual tour of the studio, read more about their team and clients, and more. Make sure to join their newsletter list to stay up to date.