GUEST POST: Ed Carter from AbleFutures shares tips for retirees ahead of September's Healthy Aging Month

These Retirement Living Solutions Make Community a Top Priority

Photo credit: Pexels

With the vast number of baby boomers now in retirement, you could say that this generation has created a “boom” in senior living options. The most popular options are all about community, whether that comes from an assisted living center, moving to a 55-and-over community, or being part of a community right from your home. While each of these options has pros and cons, the common thread is that they all help you stay more connected without sacrificing your health and safety. The following tips presented by Coraopolis Community Development can help you find your way when you’re just getting started.

Assisted Living as a Community

People often think of assisted living as being institutional and isolating - not exactly the community they want for retirement. But because today’s seniors want something more, assisted living centers are adapting to meet that demand. The benefit of assisted living is that it gives you or your loved one extra care, so you have less to worry about.

For seniors who choose assisted living, the most important thing is to find the right fit so you can truly enjoy your senior years. To find a community where you feel at home, be sure to consider the facility’s layout, amenities, and social opportunities. You will also want to think about the location you desire, services provided, the ability to access higher care, and which facilities fit your budget. One thing all seniors and their families should know is that costs of assisted living can vary widely.

Moving to Find Community

If you don’t need the assistance part of assisted living, Marketwatch suggests you may want to consider an active adult community. This could be a good choice if you need a more accessible home and crave the fun and social support that is common in an active community. The requirements you should consider are similar to those when searching for assisted living. One important thing to look into is whether you will be able to stay there long term or if you would need to move to get additional care later in life. Of course you’ll need to define how much you can spend on a home as well. Things you’ll need to consider include your monthly spending, annual income, property taxes, and what type of loan you take out.

Creating Your Own Community

Along with these two options that have been around for a while, some seniors are choosing alternative housing solutions that allow them to find community and care while staying in their own homes. The New York Times reports that many cities across America now have “village-to-village” communities, which give seniors who live at home access to services much like they would get in traditional retirement facilities. For a fee, seniors can utilize the “village” referral service to easily find help with just about anything they need. Along with these vital resources, seniors also get support from their neighbors in the form of social events and other ways of making connections.

Another housing solution that fosters community is to have a senior roommate, or even create an intergenerational household. Also called co-housing, living with a group of friends is an excellent way to create your own community and provide mutual support for one another. Co-housing also comes with the added benefit of sharing resources, which makes it more affordable than some other options.

With either of these choices, aging in place often means making some modifications to your home. The primary concerns for aging in place are accessibility and safety. When you start thinking about staying in your own home, it’s important to consider things like doorways and stairs that can hinder access, along with safety issues like installing grab bars in bathrooms. You also want to think about the cost of these modifications when deciding which solution is the most affordable. Keep in mind that you may need to call in pros for some situations; for example, if you intend to work on anything that involves your plumbing, it’s a good idea to call a plumber. Sites like Angi.com can help you find a good plumber in the Pittsburgh area.

Cost, convenience, amenities and services - these are all essential factors to consider before making a decision. Everyone has unique needs and different desires for senior living, but the trend towards greater community is a positive change that we see hanging around. This is good news for retirees, because it means you can look forward to some amazing advantages in senior living.

Visit www.AbleFutures.org to learn more and to get in touch with the writer.

From the 1700 Block of Ridge Avenue to Alice Cooper’s Eighteen, Bob Snyder’s illustrious music career has Coraopolis roots

Snyder performing at the June 12th Second Saturdays concert, for which he also serves as sound production manager.

Graduating second in his class at Cornell High School in 1975, Robert M. Snyder, Jr. - or Bob as his friends call him - had a clear path laid out for him in the field of engineering. But after catching the music bug while working as an engineering associate at a local firm, Bob chose to change paths and has never looked back.

“After college I was both working a job as an engineering associate for a company called Erie Technological Products (later called Murata) and playing in an area band called ‘Conspiracy.’ There were days when I would wake up and not know whether I was getting ready to go to work or to a gig. I realized even then, that something had to give and made the decision to pursue music full time - something I’ve never regretted,” Snyder said of his decision. 

Bob spent the next 25 years touring nationally and internationally with his own bands and tour managing for other high profile artists. One of his most memorable experiences was having the opportunity to perform the song “Eighteen” by Alice Cooper with Michael Bruce, the band’s guitarist who wrote the song.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to meet, befriend, and work with artists I had admired earlier in life. I’m still in touch with many of them, and will still see them when they come through Pittsburgh on tour,” said Snyder.

After years on the road, life began to pull Bob back home. After returning to Coraopolis, he opened up his own business in town called 808 Music Haus, which has since relocated to Ambridge.

“Mainly, I teach private (one-on-one) music lessons - guitar, bass, keyboards, ukulele and voice.  Also, I have a “backline provided” rehearsal room available by the hour - meaning everything is here including PA, monitors, mics, amps, drum set, keyboard rig, etc,” Snyder said.

Bob said the pandemic affected not only his small business but his performance schedule as an artist as well. 

“I moved to Ambridge just as it was all going down (March of 2020), so it was uncertain times for sure. Luckily, and for no reason I can explain (perhaps cabin fever), the music lesson aspect of the business picked up quite a bit after the move. Good thing, since my live gigs went away completely and the rehearsal room rental slowed to a trickle. Things have slowly returned to close to ‘normal’ over the last six months or so.”

In addition to lessons and studio space, Snyder’s business provides live sound reinforcement for bands and sometimes festivals, such as the Coraopolis Community Development Corporation’s “Second Saturdays” concert series on Mill Street of which he serves as production manager. Concert-goers have the opportunity to hear Snyder’s impressive vocals first-hand through performances with his current musical projects, GumBand and the Davis-Gray Acoustic Trio. 

Bob Snyder (left) with his bandmates from GumBand.

For Bob, involvement with Coraopolis projects is not just work, it’s personal. “I have seen first-hand what a small group of people with a love for a small town (and its best interests at heart) can do,” he said.

Snyder continued, “I was in Coraopolis for years and saw the same empty storefronts, no new businesses and no real direction for the town. [Now], you can literally feel the town revitalizing—there’s a palpable energy to the place that I haven’t seen since I was a young kid. The community garden, the food bank, several new area businesses, the restoration of the train station and yeah, events like ‘Second Saturdays’ are really helping to re-energize the place where I grew up.”

Bob recounts an idyllic childhood in Coraopolis, with too many fond memories to list. 

“On those rare winter days when it would snow a foot or more, we’d get a group of 8 or 10 kids together and sled ride down George Street—from Hiland Avenue all the way down to State Avenue, with a couple kids acting as “crossing guards” at each intersection. Probably doesn’t seem like much by today’s standards, but we had a blast,” he said.

Snyder still has family in the area, including his mother, who resides in Moon Township and attends as many shows as she’s able to.

“She’s still very much self-reliant, which is a real inspiration to me,” he said. When not working or performing, Bob spends time with his girlfriend, Paulette, whom he calls his “near-constant companion and very supportive of all of my musical endeavors.” 

He continued, “When not involved in something musical, we generally just try to find a way to relax a bit.  We’re getting ready to take a long overdue vacation at some point later this summer—we both certainly deserve it.”

Make sure to catch Bob headline with the Davis-Gray Acoustic Trio at the August Second Saturdays event on 8/14 from 12 pm - 4 pm on Mill Street in downtown Coraopolis.

808 Music Haus is now accepting new students both virtually and in-person. The studio can be found online at www.808musichaus.com and is located at 199 Park Road in Ambridge.

Byron Nash credits Coraopolis with helping shape his musical foundation

Photo: Jeff Swensen

When Byron Nash suddenly became a single father at the age of eighteen, he found solace, independence, and a sense of community in the small town of Coraopolis. 

“I was living in Baltimore and things were pretty dire. Those circumstances brought my son and I to Coraopolis. It was the first place I had my own apartment, experienced a sense of independence and was able to start this lifelong journey of raising my son and pursuing art and music,” Nash said.

Now a successful working musician based in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, the entrepreneur and fitness guru credits the strong foundation he has built over the years to his time in Coraopolis. 

“[When I came to Coraopolis...] I was so young and didn’t really know anyone or anything. I remember buying a mountain bike at the local bike store as a source of transportation. I used to wrap a towel around the bar for my son to sit on safely,” said Nash. 

That bike store was Coraopolis Bicycle Shop, locally owned and operated by Dick Wolfe since 1969 and still in business at 938 5th Avenue. 

His ties to local business don’t stop there. Nash also purchased his first guitar amplifier - a piece of equipment that started his musical instrument collection - at a small music store on Mill Street.

While living in Coraopolis, Byron studied graphic design at the Community College of Allegheny County. Always a huge music fan, Nash took an art internship at a local music magazine called Rock and Roll Reporter. Because the industry was just switching over to computer-based graphic design, Nash had only one semester of computer training. He became frustrated by having to digitally translate his creativity. 

“One day the [magazine’s] owner came into the room and jokingly asked if anyone knew anything about the hair metal band RATT. I raised my hand and everyone burst into laughter.” Nash continued, “He pulled me into his office and asked me music questions and I was spewing all of these music facts and trivia. Totally shocked, he asked if I had ever done any writing and I told him that I was writing CD reviews for fun.”

Byron quickly secured an interview with RATT that launched him into music writing. He steadily rose the ranks to local music editor, then managing editor helping to run the magazine.

Nash sees his time as a music writer as an advantage, because he had the opportunity to learn the music business before taking on his own gigs. Nash’s musical highlights include opening for a wide-range of artists including Busta Rhymes, Dave Matthews Band, Redman & Method Man, 50 Cent, Pharrell Williams, Phil Lesh from the Grateful Dead and more. Most recently, he was asked to play a private dinner for Motown Legend Smokey Robinson, who was so impressed with Byron that he’s been asked back four times over. 

In addition to musician and artist, Nash has added entrepreneur to his resume with the launch of DUYA Wellness (Don’t Underestimate Your Ability).

“Fitness is at the forefront of it, but it’s really about personal development, mindset skills, and how to help people become the best version of themselves. DUYA has taken off very quickly and I’m so excited about it. Another cool fact is that my son gave me the name idea. That makes it extra special,” commented Nash.

Photo: Josh Franzos

Running a young company in the midst of a global pandemic helped to elevate Nash’s focus, drive and determination to succeed. “It made me smarter, more focused and crafty. After being in such a bad situation, it made me decide to not rely on bartending as my source of income. It made me think about other ways to create my own opportunities and income without relying on just a job, or something that can be taken away unexpectedly like the service industry was by Covid,” said Nash.

The optimistic Nash also saw a silver lining with his music during the pandemic, stating that it saved and revitalized his music career. 

Nash continued, “It gave me rest and time to reevaluate goals, take classes, seminars, lessons, read and revamp my short and long-term goals - by redefining ‘how I did music.’ Oddly enough, I gigged more during the pandemic than 2018-2019 combined. I used it as a positive opportunity to grow and reinvent myself.”

It seems Nash has come full circle, with his return to Coraopolis to open up the Second Saturdays concert series that kicked off on Saturday, June 12th. Nash rocked Mill Street with friend and bandmate George Baron. The duo had the audience vibing to a soulful mix of rock and blues - and some killer guitar riffs. Video of that performance, along with many others can be found on Nash’s Facebook page @ByronNashMusician and website atwww.ByronNash.com. More information on DUYA Wellness can be found @duya_wellness on Instagram.

99 Years Young: VFW Post 402 is ‘not your grandfather’s VFW’

Just one year shy of a century in operation, the Keith-Holmes VFW Post 402 is poised for growth and ready for its next chapter. In honor of Memorial Day, join us in taking a closer look at an organization that not only honors those who serve and protect our country, but that has helped shape its community through customs and traditions rooted in patriotism.

History

The Post signed its original Charter in a 2nd floor meeting room on Mill Street in downtown Coraopolis in Spring 1922. But its story started even before that, with Rev. Michael Wilson Keith, a U.S. Army Chaplain, and Sgt. John Arthur Holmes. 

Both Keith and Holmes served in World War I and died bravely in combat during the “War to End All Wars.” 

Upon their return home, those who served with Rev. Keith and Sgt. Holmes made the choice to memorialize their fellow soldiers’ bravery by deeming them namesakes of the new post. 

Keith-Holmes VFW Post 402 broke ground at 412 Mulberry Street on Christmas in 1940. The building, designed by T. Ed Cornelius and built by J. J. Trunick & Sons, cost $30,000. It has been open for members since May 30, 1941.

It’s original World War II monument on the corner of 5th Avenue and Mulberry was designed in 1965 by architect Louis Gilberti - a name that Coraopolis natives will recognize - and completed in 1973. The Post added its iconic WWI Dough-boy in 2011.

Present Day

The VFW 402 building circa 1950.

As some may have noticed, our local Dough-boy recently underwent a makeover, with a shiny new exterior to go along with the Post’s brand new memorial corner.

“Our membership made the decision to move forward [with the new memorial] that would lower ongoing maintenance costs, be fully accessible, and honor veterans from all major foreign conflicts,” said Steve Miller, president of the Post’s Board of Directors. 

The newly complete Memorial Corner. 

The total cost of the new memorial topped $110,000. The project benefited greatly from over 1,000 volunteer hours logged by their members. Miller said the residents of Coraopolis and surrounding communities have been generous in showing their support through the paver program and private donations. 

“Overall, we raised nearly 70% of the cost, making the memorial our single largest fundraiser in recent history. We also had major help from the merger of the Donald T. Campbell VFW Post 5756 in Sewickley. Without them, we would still be fundraising,” said Miller.  

Sales of engraved pavers are ongoing, and Miller strongly encourages all local businesses and families to support the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of this community centerpiece by purchasing a brick if possible.

In addition to the memorial campaign, the Post sustains itself by renting out the VFW’s great hall, which recently underwent significant facility upgrades and notably took the initiative to make the Post completely smoke-free as of January 1, 2021. 

Miller said the leadership team, led by Commander Mike Blair, wants to ensure the Post offers the local community a facility they can be proud of for years to come. “We want to leave the legacy of the old smoky bar in the past, and make sure our members have a comfortable place to enjoy,” he said.

The Post continues to sponsor its core programs that support veterans at the local, state, and national level such as the Patriot Pen and Voice of Democracy scholarship for local youth, VFW National Home for Children, special recognition of local first responders and numerous programs that support and assist both active duty military and veterans. 

“VFW Post 402 is far more than just a veterans social organization. Many people are unaware of the various programs that support the community and veterans. Our members are from all branches of the military and the various wars and conflicts from WWII to the current Global War on Terrorism,” said Miller.

The WWI Dough-boy as it sits atop the VFW’s new Memorial Corner.

Looking Ahead

The Post looks forward to continuing their strong ties with local citizens, businesses, churches, government, educational institutions and community oriented organizations that have become part of the fabric of the VFW due to the close-knit nature of the neighborhood. 

They also enjoy being part of the resurgence that is currently taking place. “Coraopolis is an up and coming town. The people are genuine, hard working, and honest.  You know your network is only 1 or 2 persons away from someone that you went to high school with, or friends with your parents...or had a regular spot down at the VETS,” commented Miller. 

Future initiatives include bringing the post into compliance with the ADA so that members and guests can more easily access the entire facility, resuming in-person programs once the COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions are lifted, and of course, resuming its famous Memorial Day Parade.

Due to COVID-19 limitations, the Post has had to make the difficult decision to cancel the parade two years in a row. However, they have many activities planned this month around town that will commemorate the holiday in a safe manner. 

For those who want to help with the VFW’s work, Miller suggests spreading the word about the Post’s programs, advocacy for veterans, upcoming events, and fundraisers. “It’s paramount we all continue to work together towards bettering the community,” he said.

A Week of Celebrations for Memorial Day 2021:

Tuesday, May 25th: Placing flags in local cemeteries

Saturday, May 29th: Buddy Poppy fundraiser at local store fronts

*Money raised from our Buddy Poppy program goes directly toward our programs to support veterans in financial distress.

Sunday, May 30th: Honor Roll Tribute to our fallen comrades at 13 local cemeteries and memorials

Monday, May 31st: Official Memorial Dedication

*11 am - 1 pm at Mulberry Street & 5th Avenue

Food Trucks will be available serving burgers, hotdogs, BBQ, tacos, and ice cream.

Shop with Julz offers fashion with a London flair

Julz Armel in front of her store at 507 Mill Street, Spring 2021.

Julie “Julz” Armel’s passion for fashion took her across the globe and back again through studies at University of Westminster London and retail management positions with the likes of JCPenney, Gap, and American Eagle. 

Since coming back to her hometown of Pittsburgh, the busy mother of two now works in merchandising for local sports retail giant, Dick’s Sporting Goods. And though she loves her day job, opening up her own clothing boutique was always in the back of her mind, a dream she shared with her late mother. 

“My mum tried to open up a store right before she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. That is why a percentage of all my sales go to Susan G. Komen Foundation, in her honor,” Armel commented. 

Her mother’s memory continues to inspire Shop with Julz, which offers an eclectic mix of high-end leather jackets, trendy tie-dye, day-to-night pieces, and an earring wall that will make any accessory-junky jump with joy. Julz chooses unique pieces that offer her shoppers a chance to infuse their personality into their wardrobe. 

“When I was a young girl, I had a dear friend tell me she knew I was different when I wore my Air Jordans with my Easter Dress. I would tell people to embrace those things that make us different because they make us who we are and create us. To this day I am happiest in a dress with sneakers!” she said. 

The boutique opened online in 2018 and at its brick and mortar location at 507 Mill Street in July 2020. Opening during a pandemic was not ideal, but Julz is determined. She continued, “The pandemic made my first year pretty tough. But my passion to see SWJ succeed keeps me going.”

When scouting a location for her shop, the Moon Township resident immediately thought of Coraopolis. “I knew it was up and coming. I love the businesses here and the downtown area,” she said. She encourages any entrepreneur who is considering the community for their business to stop in and introduce themselves. “We (Cory business owners) are a team and want everyone to succeed!” said Armel.

As summer approaches, she looks forward to being involved in the community events, especially the Second Saturdays concert series set to take place on Mill Street beginning in June. “I want Coraopolis to become a destination for people to visit,” she said. “I love this town!”

When not working, Julz enjoys spending time with her husband, Adam, and playing with her two young children, daughter Ivy (4) and son Levi (2).

Shop with Julz Boutique is located at 507 Mill Street in downtown Coraopolis. Currently open on Saturdays from 11 am - 4 pm, hours will continue to expand as pandemic restrictions ease. Shop with Julz online at www.shopwithjulz.com 24/7.

Five years of ‘Glamour’ on 5th Avenue

Chelsea Szost, owner of Glamorous Productions LLC, pictured inside her salon located at 1038 5th Avenue.

Making long term connections with clients is Chelsea Szost’s favorite part of the job.

”I always say hair is hair. We don’t just have services for men or women, we’re a family salon. I love forming relationships with our clients and watching their kids grow up,” she said.

Glamorous Productions LLC began as a traveling bridal hair and makeup team in 2012. Needing a space to bring clients for wedding trials led Szost, the salon’s founder and owner, to open up a brick and mortar location in Coraopolis.

“When you’re opening a business they always say, ‘location, location, location.’ I wanted something that had a storefront window on a main drag. Fifth Avenue was perfect for us,” commented Chelsea.

Brought to her attention by her husband Ben, a Groveton native, the revitalization in Coraopolis was originally what caught Chelsea’s eye. Learning that incoming businesses included a coffee bar, an art gallery, and antique shops encouraged her to snatch up her own space in 2016.

“There is a huge difference from when we first started in town. The community involvement has really grown. It’s nice to be a part of a neighborhood and not just in a commercial space - Coraopolis has a hometown feel to it.”

The Brentwood native began her career as an assistant, received her cosmetology license in 2004, and went on to become a regional salon educator with Italy Hair Fashion, a color distributor in Baden, PA. Though Chelsea enjoyed the work, she wanted more from the beauty industry. 

She quickly learned just how much time you need to invest as a business owner. “This is a never ending job. From ordering products, to social media, working with clientele, scheduling classes - it is nonstop.”

As an educator at heart, Chelsea makes sure her team of talented stylists - a mixture of tenured veterans and newly licensed professionals -  is always up to speed on innovative techniques and products. “Our main focus is hair and makeup, and we love color.”

Szost’s desire to constantly improve isn’t limited to her work in the beauty industry. She also competes in shows with her beloved horse, Reba. “It was always my dream to ride horses. We’ve done parades and jumping shows, we’re always working on new things together.”

Chelsea holds a number of causes close to her heart, including support of first responders and animal advocacy.

“A lot of my family was involved in the Brentwood Fire Department. And Ben and his dad are part of the Groveton Fire Department. It’s a legacy of service for us.”

She also said the salon organizes a number of fundraisers throughout the year for their partner animal charities. 

“All of us in the salon are big animal lovers. I think a big part of owning a business is giving back. My favorite way to give back is through animals,” she said.

For business owners looking to get more connected in Coraopolis, Szost suggests they get in contact with Coraopolis Community Development. 

“I came to Coraopolis without being from here. Amy (CCDC Executive Director) was so welcoming, introduced me to other business owners, and made me feel a part of the community right away.”

If you’re in need of a stylist or ready for a new look, check out Glamorous Productions LLC online at www.glamorousproductionsllc.com or make a stop at the salon located at 1038 5th Avenue in downtown Coraopolis. 

Running a River Town: Get to know Borough Manager Ray McCutcheon

McCutcheon pictured inside the Borough Council Chambers at 1301 4th Avenue.

Now entering his 10th year as Coraopolis Borough Manager, Ray McCutcheon is part of a legacy that’s 134 years in the making. As a fourth generation Coraopolis resident, McCutcheon’s ties to the town date all the way back to its founding. 

“My great, great uncle was the first Borough Secretary and signed the first ordinance in 1887,” said McCutcheon. “Having lived here my entire life I truly have a strong connection to the community.”

McCutcheon’s pride in his birthplace shines through in his dedication to his work. “It is very rewarding for me to be able to improve my hometown. Every day at the Borough you’ll have new opportunities and challenges. Days go by very quickly in this position,” he said.

With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting from Robert Morris College, McCutcheon worked in accounting positions from 1981 until becoming Borough Manager in 2012.

But his tenure in town leadership began early on through his involvement with the Cornell Youth Baseball Association. McCutcheon encourages others to get involved in town activities that best fit their interests and said inquiring at the Borough office is the best way to find out about opportunities. 

“People can get involved with sports teams or the Shade Tree Committee that plants trees and holds cleanup days. There are also positions on various boards that are part of the Borough.”

McCutcheon’s enthusiasm for Coraopolis and all it has to offer continues to grow. He especially appreciates the friendly neighbors and small town feel. 

“We have a great walking community. There are a lot of river towns struggling the past couple of decades, but Coraopolis has been able to keep a lot of old businesses and attract new businesses as well. It’s just a nice little town. I feel lucky to have grown up in Coraopolis and still have friends from elementary school that live all over the country,” he said.

As the point person for Borough activity, McCutcheon is accustomed to managing many projects, but one he is particularly excited about is the new riverfront park. He commented, “It will take a few years to complete, but it should be a wonderful addition to the community.”

When he’s not in the office, the family man enjoys spending time with his wife of 39 years, Elesa, daughter Lauren, son Ryan, and grandson Leo. Both of his children are educators, a fact that brings McCutcheon a tremendous amount of pride.

You can also find him at his favorite local spot, Segneri’s Italian restaurant, and spending time outdoors golfing, walking and bike riding. If you happen to see him around town this month, wish him a happy birthday!

Tucker + Lola: A luxury dog grooming experience

Rosario pictured above with Lola (left) and Tucker (right).

Two dogs walk into a day spa...okay, more than two dogs. No joke, Tucker + Lola Luxury Dog Grooming Studio has seen dozens of dogs since its grand opening in November. Founder and CEO Karl Rosario said the Coraopolis community has welcomed him with open arms. 

“The love everyone has for Coraopolis makes me proud to be part of the community. Everyone is excited to see the community grow and is vested in the success of their neighbor. Our local patrons have been beyond nice,” Rosario commented.

One new customer even gifted the salon with hair bows for the pooches, which will go nicely with Rosario’s one-of-a-kind dog colognes that he has been selling online since August 2019. Rosario’s love of dogs began when his brother adopted a Goldendoodle, Lola, earlier that year. 

“I always loved dogs,” said Rosario. “But having a pet in the family took this to the next level. I lived in New York City, and whenever I visited my family in Moon Township, I always looked forward to spending time with my “niece” Lola. A couple of months later, I adopted my very own dog, Tucker.”

Rosario and Tucker, a Cavapoo, lived in NYC but moved back to his native Moon Township when the COVID-19 pandemic hit last March. It was love at first sight for Tucker and Lola, and Rosario says that having the two dogs brought his family closer and helped everyone deal with the lockdown a bit better. 

“You cannot help but feel happy when you watch two cute pups enjoy each other’s company all day!” he continued. 

Since then, Rosario has been working to build his brand locally. As a management consultant, the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School grad spent the last six years helping consumer and retail companies tackle some of their biggest strategic issues. Now, as the owner of his own business, he’s combining his love of dogs with his expertise to make an authentic brand. 

“As a consultant I did a lot of work with e-Commerce brands, so our natural starting point was launching our online store...As the traction of the brand grew we started getting requests from groomers across the country to carry our products as they not only loved the scents but also loved what the brand represented,” Rosario said.

The close-knit community of Coraopolis gave Rosario’s Tucker + Lola the authenticity he was seeking. He continued, “We have a ton of entrepreneurs doing fantastic work in the community from gourmet coffee and craft beer locations to wellness centers and hair salons. It is amazing to see how far this community has come, and the potential is endless.”

Though opening his studio has been an enjoyable experience, the global pandemic has added some challenges. Rosario reflected, “[You have to] expect the unexpected. Plan for as much as you can but remember than only so much can be controlled. The main skill of running a business is to be able to roll with the punches and adapt.”

Rosario looks forward to the continued revitalization of downtown Coraopolis, attracting new businesses and residents. “All businesses rise together as the community becomes more vibrant. Additionally, [the establishment of] a forum for all local businesses to connect would be great. It would allow seamless collaboration efforts.”

He offers the following advice for other small business owners: “Engage with the community. Coraopolis is a small, tight-knit family that looks out for one another. Lend a helping hand to your neighbor as you know they will do the same for you!”

Typically an avid international traveler, Rosario currently indulges in his more local hobbies during his limited free time. “I play basketball regularly and box twice a week in Ambridge. I love wines and try new bottles all the time.” 

Plan to make a stop at Tucker + Lola for your beloved pet’s next grooming appointment, or to pick-up a gift for a furry friend. Visit them online at www.tuckerandlola.com and check out the new studio at 924 4th Avenue in downtown Coraopolis. And tell your friends about their second location opening this week at 431 East Ohio Street on Pittsburgh's North Shore!

1st Annual CoryBright Storefront Window Decorating Contest

Shoppers were encouraged to vote by email beginning December 1st through December 15th. Nearly 230 votes came in and the competition was fierce! All shop owners deserve praise for their creativity, extra effort, and unique designs. Browse all of the window designs in the gallery below and make sure to pay the shops a visit this holiday season! #shopsmall #shoplocal #shopcoraopolis

1st place winner, Emma Jean's Relics, located at 930 5th Avenue.

2nd place winner, Glamorous Productions, located at 1038 5th Avenue.

3rd place winner, Carpe Diem Holistic Wellness, located at 1016 5th Avenue.

American Coin Rarities located at 903 5th Avenue.

Bella Bambini Cello located at 1042 5th Avenue.

Gilberti Fine Art Studio & Gallery located at 1030 5th Avenue.

Coraopolis True Value Hardware located at 1029 5th Avenue.

Jordan's Donuts located at 1005 5th Avenue.

Mystic Embers located at 1009 4th Avenue.

Off the Avenue Antiques located at 1000 4th Avenue.

One Man's Junk located at 926 5th Avenue.

Patina & Soul located at 932 5th Avenue.

Recognition Awards & Trophy located at 1105 5th Avenue.

Suburban Floral Shoppe located at 1210 5th Avenue

Tiffany R. Battaglini Insurance Agency located at 1108 5th Avenue.

Three Rivers Yoga located at 1000 5th Avenue.

Vintage Grace Boutique located at 1040 5th Avenue.

Vibrant Styles Hair Salon located at 863 5th Avenue.

Vintage Revival located at 429 Mill Street.

West Point Ballet located at 1025 5th Avenue.

Zuko's Pizza located at 1009 5th Avenue.

Bob Barton: The original yoga master

Bob Barton in front of his studio at 1000 5th Avenue in Coraopolis.

Newcomers to Coraopolis may not realize that the town is home to the very first studio in Pittsburgh dedicated solely to the practice of yoga. 

Bob Barton opened Three Rivers Yoga in 1993 as a way to share and teach the practice that brought so much healing to his life. Having discovered yoga following a skydiving accident, Barton found that the more he practiced, the better he felt. As a United States Airforce veteran, Barton was no stranger to discipline. 

“Knowing yoga helped me. I was able to move and release pain from my body. My goal was to allow others to learn what they could do for themselves,” said Barton.

The idea to open his studio came to him as he was traveling outside of Pittsburgh to take classes and become a certified teacher.  

“I was the first yoga studio in the Pittsburgh area. Many studios that opened after me were students of mine that went through my Teachers Training course,” said Barton.

When it came to finding a home for his studio, Coraopolis had the right mix.

Barton continued, “A yoga studio needs to have a large space. However, the cost of a large space can be too high. Economically, Coraopolis has been an excellent place to find large space with  affordable rent. [It is also] centrally located to Moon, Sewickley, Carnegie, Crafton, Robinson and many other locations. Easy access is essential to students getting to class.”

Barton loves to see his students supporting the other small businesses in Coraopolis when they are in town to visit his 5th Avenue studio. 

“It is nice to know that there is a revitalization happening in Coraopolis. Hopefully that will help all the businesses in the community...A few more restaurants would attract people to the area,” he added.

Yoga is threaded through all aspects of Barton’s life. When he isn’t teaching, you can find him practicing a different passion: drumming. 

“I have been playing drums since I was young. For years I wrote articles in Drum Magazine that taught yoga postures to keep the body limber for playing.”

He is also an accomplished author, having co-written a book with student and friend, John Centofanti, Yogamerica: The Adventures of Bob & John, which is available on Amazon both in  paperback and kindle. 

The old saying of ‘do what you love and it will never seem like a day of work’ is certainly true for Barton. And for those who are considering yoga, Barton says you can get started anytime. 

“Learning more about your body and breath will enhance your life,” he said. 

Three Rivers Yoga is located at 1000 5th Avenue in downtown Coraopolis. The studio has morning and evening hours. Generally, classes are not held in the afternoon. However, at times the studio may appear to be closed when it is actually open for classes. Make sure to check the class schedule on the studio windows and on its website at www.threeriversyoga.com.