At the beginning of the year, I launched an initiative to conduct monthly walkthroughs in each District 1 neighborhood, with representatives from various city departments. So far, we’ve visited Spring Hill, Observatory Hill, and Spring Garden and identified numerous issues, including abandoned vehicles, potholes, illegal dumping, overgrowth, potential properties that could get back on the tax roll via the Land Bank, obstructions in the right-of-way, and other issues. I look forward to continuing these walkthroughs and working with the departments and the community to address issues.

The vape shop ordinance, Bill 20252250, is now at the Planning Commission with a public hearing scheduled for April 7 at 2 p.m. To provide public comment, you may send an email to planningcommission@pittsburghpa.gov (accepted until noon the business day before the hearing), submit testimony by mail to 412 Boulevard of the Allies, Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (must arrive two business days before the meeting), attend in person at 412 Boulevard of the Allies or join virtually. Details can be found at the Planning Commission website: pittsburghpa.gov/Business-Development/City-Planning/City-Planning-Meetings/PC-Agendas/Planning-Commission-April-7-2026.

This year’s yard debris collection has been moved up by one week to April 18. The original collection date of April 25 was changed due to conflicts with the NFL Draft and other special events throughout the City. Please note that yard waste must follow the guidelines, which are available on Environmental Services’ website: pittsburghpa.gov/Resident-Services/ Trash-Recycling/Yard-Debris and on the annual Collection Schedule and Newsletter.

I am happy to announce that on March 12, the City of Pittsburgh launched a new Mobile Vending Program following legislation that was passed and signed into law in November 2025. The new annual vending license now allows vending on both public and private property, permits vendors to access a broader range of areas including more streets and sidewalks, and no longer mandates that vendors move every four hours. Full details can be found on the Engage Page here: engage.pittsburghpa.gov/vending-program.

Furthermore, Mayor Corey O’Connor has announced that Pittsburgh Urban Initiatives has invested $500,000 in a Main & Main commercial façade program to help support vibrancy in our neighborhood business districts. The funding allows the Urban Redevelopment Authority to launch a round of applications in mid-April to fund façade renovations for up to 25 local businesses. Projects can receive reimbursement up to $20,000 with 25% matching funds from the business owner. The public will have an opportunity to comment on the guidelines on the URA’s website until April 3.

Applications for the Community Festival Program Grant are open until April 15. The 2026 Community Festival Program once again will provide 30 individual grants of up to $1,000 in reimbursements for events hosted by Pittsburgh community-based non-profit groups during the festival season, which runs from June 1 to Oct. 31. For full information about the 2026 Community Festival Program Grant or to apply, please visit pittsburghpa.gov/festivalgrant or email questions to cfpgrant@pittsburghpa.gov.

Finally, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy’s annual clean-up of Lake Elizabeth — What the Muck?! — will take place on April 30 and May 1 beginning at 8 a.m. If you’re interested in volunteering to help beautify this historic landmark, go to pittsburghparks.org/event/what-the-muck-volunteer-cleanup-event/ to register.

If you have any questions or concerns, call us at (412) 255-2135, email us at district1@pittsburghpa.gov, find us on Facebook and X, and sign up for our newsletter (pittsburghpa.gov/City-Government/City-Council/Districts/Bobby-Wilson-District-1). My staff and I look forward to hearing from you!

At the meeting, which was held at the Children’s Museum, Paul Tellers of WTW Architects and Sara Thompson of Pashek Associates addressed the design of the replacement bridge in Allegheny Commons.

“The ped bridge is being demolished because it is in extremely poor condition, and falling debris could be hazardous for passing trains,” said Alida Baker of the Allegheny Commons Initiative.

Tellers, who is part of the steering committee, volunteered his design services, while Thompson is working under a small contract in place with Pashek Associates. Wilbur Smith Associates volunteered their services for the engineering and construction documents.

Tellers and Thompson presented five options of redesign for the pedestrian bridge, which included a 1960s-style, girder bridge, truss bridge, basket weave and a truss bridge with landings with space for plants and benches.

“I think a new bridge presents an opportunity to stitch the park back together and potentially be another asset to the city,” said Thompson.

As the existing pedestrian bridge’s arch does not provide clearance on its sides for trains, it will be demolished and most likely redesigned. A replication of the bridge would be too costly and difficult, as the arch that is currently at 23 feet, would have to exceed its current elevation.

Extending the arch elevation would require longer and steeper ramps to access the bridge deck. As the bridge is concrete, it would have to be cast in place which would mean stopping railroad traffic.

Funding for the new pedestrian bridge is not yet determined because the planning is at the early stages and a budget is not currently set. Once planning is underway, Tellers roughly estimated the reconstruction of the bridge may take about a year and half.

The community had differing responses to altering the bridge and its arch. Some wished to not alter the arch such as community member, Fran Barbush, who said that she liked “keeping the arch as a feature in the bridge, because it mirrors the angulations of the land in the park.”

Tellers said he, “appreciated the input because that was the purpose of the meeting.”

The committee will review feedback and ideas gained at the meeting and come together to decide which bridge meets the requirements of the community.

In April 2025, Sophia opened Northside Community Pilates where she teaches “classical Pilates,” which not only improves your body and its ability to move pain free; it also promotes a mentally calming influence. Sophia has faithfully used and taught Pilates for the last 28 years and it shows.

First, a little backstory on Pilates which Sophia shared with me:

Joseph Hubertus Pilates, a German physical trainer born in 1883, is credited with inventing Pilates. As a child, Joseph was “sickly” and was introduced to physical exercise by his parents to improve his health and strengthen his weak body. Seeing the results of strength training and exercise, Joseph became “passionate about physical fitness.”

Check out the May issue of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.

Pennsylvania is not one of them. At the outset of 2026, prices are on the rise while our state’s minimum wage languishes at the federal minimum of $7.25 an hour. Nearly 300,000 Pennsylvanians still earn between $7.25 and $12 an hour.

That’s not acceptable. I have always been a staunch advocate for a fair day’s pay for all workers, and it’s critical that this issue gains momentum now to help Pennsylvania’s working families and economy. It’s about time.

Pennsylvania’s minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 an hour for 16 years.

That’s not a typo —16. And in those 16 years, every single one of our neighboring states has raised its minimum wage. Four of our six neighbors have a minimum wage of $15 or more.

Pennsylvania House Democrats have acted on this issue — twice in the past year, in fact.

We recently passed H.B. 2189, which would raise the minimum wage to $15 by 2029 and allow municipalities to reach the $15 mark sooner. The bill is now pending in the Senate.

Last June we passed H.B. 1549, which would give every Pennsylvanian worker a base-level pay of $12 an hour by 2028. But Senate Republicans haven’t moved that bill.

If helping hard-working Pennsylvanians isn’t enough of an argument, perhaps Senate Republicans will be swayed by the economic and budgetary benefits of raising the minimum wage.

Studies regularly show that a higher minimum wage stimulates consumer spending, improves worker morale and productivity, and helps businesses’ bottom line.

Gov. Josh Shapiro, in his budget address in February, also highlighted the benefits to the state budget: Raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour will actually save the state money.

That’s right. The state would save an estimated $300 million on entitlement programs such as Medicaid because of the number of Pennsylvanians who wouldn’t need those programs anymore. Nearly 61,000 people currently rely on Medicaid and make less than $15 per hour.

Shapiro called on legislators to send a minimum wage bill to his desk.

I serve on the House Appropriations Committee, and I will be raising all these valid arguments for a higher minimum wage as we work on next year’s budget: It’s good for workers, it’s good for the economy, and it’s good for our state budget.

And it’s about time.

State Rep. Aerion Abney represents the 19th Legislative District.

Historic Deutschtown
Jodi Lynn Butler to Robert and Irene Clare at 611 Suismon St. for $652,800.

Marshall-Shadeland
OAP Ventures LLC to Auren Emily Beal at 848 Grand Ave. for $225,000.
Yicheng Wang to Bamidbar LLC at 2617 Stayton St. for $41,500.

Manchester
Estate of Carl Reynolds Gunn to David and Kimberly Nitchkey at Adams St., parcel 0022-F-00112-0000-00, for $65,000.

Perry Hilltop
Antjaun Washington to National Besketball Federation Ltd. at 2316 Osgood St. for $89,550.

Spring Hill
Katelyn Fowler trustee to Schneiders Properties LLC at 2470 Sunset Ave. for $85,000.

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.  Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.

The Li’l Bridgey 5K will hold its inaugural run on May 30 starting, and ending, at the Davis Avenue Bridge. The race will take runners and walkers on a scenic, though not unchallenging, route through Riverview Park.

The race is the co-creation of Benjamin Cole and Patrick Sanders, who organize the Li’l Swervy Run Club. However, this is the first formal 5K race Cole and Sanders have organized.

“The one thing Patrick and I are really focusing on with the race is the community,” Cole told The Chronicle in an interview.

A total of 150 spots are open for the run. According to Sanders, roughly half of those spots are filled as of March 11, an amount the pair feel positively about more than two months ahead of the race.

“It seems like people are getting into it,” Sanders said of the community response.

The Li’l Swervy Run Club got its start in 2025 when Sanders came to the realization he needed to exercise more.

“I got tired of hearing my knees going up and down the stairs all the time,” he said. “And I figured I needed to adjust that.”

At first planning on just running on his own, Sanders, as a joke, made a logo for a fake run club based around his efforts. The Li’l Swervy name comes from a community nickname for a roundabout on Termon Avenue.

Cole happened to see the logo and asked Sanders if the run club was real and asked to join, turning the joke into a real group.

Cole said he formerly did CrossFit in order to exercise, but wanted to work on building his endurance. A coach recommended running, and he ended up preferring it as a form of exercise.

“I don’t do CrossFit anymore,” he said affably.

The group meets every Sunday and Thursday in Legion Park (located in Brighton Heights) for regular runs. Sanders said, at first, he was just picking a direction for the runs to go at random. However, since the reconstruction of the Davis Avenue Bridge, it has become a favorite for the club, as the park offers a run route clear of most obstacles.

“There’s pedestrians,” Sanders said of the former routes taken. “It’s kind of hard to get into a rhythm because you’ve got to stop for cars, you’ve got to stop for people.”

With the park, he said, the runners don’t have to worry about that kind of thing.

The Davis Avenue Bridge was originally a vehicular crossing. However, it was torn down in 2009 by the city due to maintenance concerns, requiring Brighton Heights residents to take a long detour to get into Riverview Park.

Construction of the pedestrian version of the bridge began on April 11, 2024, and was completed in June 2025.

Such is Sanders’ and Coles’ appreciation for the bridge that the pair decided to make it both the starting and finishing line for the race.

The race is not restricted to just runners. Those wanting to walk the course are also welcome to attend.

In lieu of medals, painted rocks will be given out to participants. These rocks are provided by Brighton Heights Rocks!, a community group that paints and hides rocks throughout the neighborhood as a kind of scavenger hunt.

Sanders and Cole are also working on getting food trucks and vendors present for the race, but they are still working out the details on getting that accomplished.

Interested participants can sign up for the Li’l Bridgey 5K at https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Pittsburgh/TheBrightonHeightsLiLBridgey5K In addition to registering, Sanders and Cole are also accepting donations to the Brighton Heights Free Fridge and Pantry through the sign-up website.

No sign ups are accepted the day of the race.

An aerial photo taken by a drone of the Davis Avenue Pedestrian Bridge while it was still under construction. The bridge replaced a vehicular crossing that was torn down in 2009.

Photo by Matthew Koscienski

Homeowners looking to sell usually want three things: plenty of interested buyers, strong offers, and a short timeline. Spring is the season that most often delivers all three.

So, if a move has been on your mind this year, this is the window where momentum tends to work in your favor. Here’s what makes this season so powerful for sellers.

1.More Buyers Will Be Looking

Typically speaking, in the housing market, there’s no more popular time to move than the Spring. Historically, data coming out of ShowingTime proves that’s when buyer activity peaks each year. Take a look for yourself (see graph below):

And this year, there’s more than just the seasonal trend working in your favor. Mortgage rates are also sitting near 3-year lows – and that combination matters.

More buyers + improving affordability = more eyes on your house.

That doesn’t mean the market will return to the frenzy of the pandemic – far from it. But it does mean more buyers will be ready to re-enter the market.

And that’s good for you. As Redfin says:

“Homebuying demand is improving . . . and mortgage-purchase applications are sitting near their highest level in three years. . .”

You should make sure your house is listed so you can take advantage of the uptick in demand. Because more activity means one thing: more opportunity to get a deal done.

2. You May Get More Offers

With more buyer demand, it makes sense that you may get more offers on your house. And history shows that’s usually true.

If we look at the data for the last three years from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and take the averages for each month, it’s clear sellers in the Spring get more offers (see graph above): Now, don’t expect the excessive bidding wars that were so famous in 2020 and 2021. But it does mean, seasonality could help you out this Spring. As Realtor.com explains: “Spring typically brings out more buyers who are ready to make a move before summer. Listings see more views, showings, and offers during this season.” And that could be really good for your bottom line.

3. Homes Usually Sell Faster

There’s one more predictable pattern that happens pretty much every Spring based on research from Realtor.com. Homes sell faster (see graph below):

On average, homes sell 20 days faster in the Spring compared to the Winter. That’s almost 3 weeks shaved off your timeline. And that’s a difference you can feel.

Since homes have been taking longer to sell lately, listing your house during what’s usually the most active time of the year means you’re setting yourself up to move as quickly as possible. And isn’t that what sellers really want?

The faster your home sells, the earlier you can move on to what’s next for you. If you’re eager to go on to your next chapter, need to downsize, or you’ve run out of space, Spring may be your best time to sell.

Bottom Line

Spring doesn’t guarantee a sale. Strategy still matters. But this season gives you something valuable: momentum. More buyers. More activity. More opportunity. The real question is: if you’re going to sell this year, why not do it when the odds are in your favor? Let’s talk about what selling this season could mean for your house and your timeline. n

Tour season for the observatory begins in April and runs through October. This year, tours are taking place on Wednesdays and Fridays in April, and Thursdays and Fridays during the rest of the season. While the tours themselves are free, there is limited space on each tour, and reservations are required, either by calling (412) 321-2400 or by looking up the observatory’s tours on the website Eventbrite.

Although the season is just getting started, those interested in attending these tours are encouraged to sign up soon.

“They fill up sometimes weeks in advance,” said Kerry Handron, outreach coordinator at the observatory.

During the course of the roughly two-hour tour, attendees will learn about the history of the observatory and, if it’s a clear night, get a chance to stargaze with its telescopes. In addition to the regular tours, the observatory hosts various events during tour season, such as Open House Days (the next of which is to take place on April 19) and Haunted Space Mansion on the Sunday before Halloween.

Handron, who has been at the observatory for three years, said showing off and using the telescopes are her favorite part of conducting the tour. She said people are often surprised to see how large the telescopes are or just how realistic celestial bodies appear once seen through one of these powerful viewing devices. That latter point holds true for her regardless of what space object the person is looking at.

“I can get as excited about the Moon as about the Veil Nebula as about the Delta Scuti star,” she said.

The observatory is currently home to three telescopes: a 13-inch one dating back to 1861, a 30-inch one completed in 1912 and the much more modern Keeler telescope. The first two telescopes are included in the tour, while the Keeler telescope is usually not, as it is used by University of Pittsburgh students for academic purposes. Handron said students are able to remotely access the telescope from their dorm rooms and have it gather data from across the sky.

A history

The Allegheny Observatory has its origins in autumn of 1858 with the passing of Donati’s Comet, then termed the “most beautiful comet on record,” according to the documentary “Undaunted: The Forgotten Giants of the Allegheny Observatory,” which details the history of the observatory.

Three wealthy Allegheny City citizens, Josiah King, Harvey Childs and Lewis Bradley, were captivated by the comet and formed the Allegheny Telescope Association, with the goal of purchasing a large-scale telescope and the construction of an observatory. They gathered together many of the city’s wealthy class to contribute towards this project.

A grand opening for the observatory was planned in 1862, but was disrupted by the start of the Civil War. Many of the association’s members lost interest as the war and its effects on their businesses diverted their attention. From 1863 to 1865, the observatory fell into disuse and disrepair until local industrialist William Thaw Sr. proposed donating it to the Western University of Pennsylvania, the forerunner to the University of Pittsburgh.

The observatory’s first director was the famed astrophysicist Samuel Pierpont Langley, who, among other things, is known for the invention of the bolometer — a device able to detect and measure infrared light — and for determining the brightness of the sun.

“We now measure the brightness of the sun in Langleys,” Handron said, referring to the unit of measurement named after the man.

The observatory’s second director, James Keeler, is also well-known for determining that the rings of Saturn are made up of multiple smaller masses, rather than giant solid rings. Keeler made this discovery at the observatory and did it by examining the spectrum of light emitted by the planet’s rings, determining that they were moving at different speeds from one another.

Two other famous figures from the observatory’s history are husband and wife John and Phoebe Brashear. The Brashears came to the observatory’s attention when John approached Langley to get his opinion on a telescope the pair had been building in their spare time, which impressed the observatory director.

John would go on to construct many pieces of viewing equipment for the observatory, and even served as the building’s director from 1898 to 1900.

John and Phoebe are also known for their love story, Handron said. Such is their bond that the pair’s ashes are mixed together in the same urn in a crypt located in the observatory’s lower levels. Also within the crypt are the remains of James Keeler, as well as his son and wife.

For more information about Allegheny Observatory tours, visit observatory.pitt.edu/events/public-tours. To register for a tour, visit eventbrite.com/e/public-tours-tickets-1982476190653?aff=ebdsoporgprofile.

Allegheny West
Light LF Ministries Inc. to Allegheny City Warehouse LLC at 913-915 Western Ave. for $741,706.

Brighton Heights
LSF9 Master Participation Trust to JS 6447 LLC at 3825 Atkins St. for $146,500.
Estate of Nadiyah Lee Al Amin to Steel Ventures LLC at 3513 Fleming Ave. for $91,837.
Jeffrey Fountain to Fairmont Friendship Park Partners LLC at 3725 Millerton Ave. for $195,000.
Brooke Nee to Alexis Jabour at 3454 Rigel St. for $250,000.

Manchester
Pittsburgh Public Parking Authority to Samuel and Debra Patti trustee at 1424 Liverpool St. for $90,000.
Jonathan Bergholz to Grack Co. LLC at 1426 Pennsylvania Ave. for $525,000.

Marshall-Shadeland
MTL Ventures Inc. to Chachma LLC at 2918 Breker St. for $50,000.
Barbara Hawthorne to Wayne Property Group LLC at 1116 Ingham St. for $67,000.
Pittsburgh City to Jennifer Kraus at Rothpletz St. for $29,850.

Spring Garden
Pittsburgh City to Jeffrey and Melanie Fletcher at Voskamp St. for $3,700.
Henry Chai to Walter and Shanna Flaschka at 1154 Voskamp St. for $380,000.

Troy Hill
Troy Hill Citizens Inc. to Brown Oak Companies LLC at 1619 Lowrie St. for $90,000.

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.  Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.
 

Harris was a longtime Northside resident, having been born in Brighton Heights and living most of her life in Spring Hill. She spent much of her life supporting her community, including serving on the Spring Hill Civic League and representing the Northside on the Pittsburgh Public School Board, even managing to become president of both organizations during her service with them.

Harris is perhaps most remembered for her 13 years on Pittsburgh City Council as the District 1 representative, which represented much of the Northside. She was elected to the role in 2006 and was Council President from 2010 to 2014. She held her position until 2020 after she was defeated in the Democratic Primary for the seat by Bobby Wilson, who holds the seat to this day.

For those Northsiders formerly or currently involved in community leadership, Harris is remembered for both her bombastic personality and her fierce love for the Northside.

“She was really dialed in with the people of the city when you had requests or problems, or needed help with anything,” said Ben Soltesz, current president of the Spring Hill Civic League.

Pick up the April edition of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.

Strengthening Protection from Abuse Orders

A Protection from Abuse (PFA) order should serve as a powerful shield for survivors of domestic violence. Yet too often, abusers ignore these court orders and face consequences that amount to a slap on the wrist, leaving survivors vulnerable and forcing them to live in fear. House Bill 1908, legislation I’ve introduced with state Rep. Nate Davidson, D-Cumberland/Dauphin, would increase penalties if an individual violates a PFA repeatedly. Right now, if someone ignores this court order one or 50 times, the possible punishment is exactly the same and ultimately depends on the judge hearing the case. It also would require PFA violations be reported to a central police database so that law enforcement is aware if a person repeatedly ignores these orders. House Bill 1909, also introduced with Rep. Davidson which has passed the House and is awaiting consideration in the Senate, would strengthen enforcement of PFAs by increasing penalties for crimes committed against the protected person while the order is in effect, including harassment and stalking. The bill does not create new crimes or infringe on the rights of law-abiding gun owners. Instead, it ensures that when someone violates a court order and commits a crime against the person they are prohibited from harming, the consequences reflect the seriousness of that violation.

As a consistent advocate for criminal justice reform, I do not typically support expanding criminal penalties because enforcing what is already on the books is often more than sufficient to hold offenders accountable. However, survivors deserve confidence that the legal system will take their safety seriously and hold repeat offenders accountable. This legislation is a clear, commonsense step toward making PFAs the protection they were intended to provide.

Lowering costs for prescription drugs

Prescription drug prices are straining household budgets, and too many families encounter unexpected costs when they arrive at the pharmacy counter. Even when patients receive financial assistance to help cover their medications, predatory insurance practices exploiting a loophole can prevent that assistance from counting toward their deductibles or out-of-pocket limits.

I have introduced the Prescription Drug Copay Fairness Act to close this loophole by banning “copay accumulator” policies. These policies allow insurers to accept copay assistance funds without crediting them toward a patient’s cost-sharing obligations. As a result of this deductible double dipping, families can suddenly face the full cost of their medication once assistance runs out — often just a few months into the year. I am excited that Gov. Josh Shapiro has included this legislation as a priority in his 2026-27 state budget.

This legislation will not solve the immense challenges in our current health care system, but it is one step we can take toward making medicine more affordable. We must ensure that copay assistance actually reduces what patients owe, rather than allowing insurance companies to get paid twice.

Regulating kratom

Kratom is a psychoactive substance that acts on the same neuroreceptors as opioids and is currently unregulated in Pennsylvania. It has no age level restriction for sale and is widely available in convenience stores and smoke shops, often intentionally packaged or promoted in ways that appeal to children. In addition to carrying the same risk for overdose as opioids if taken in sufficient quantity, independent testing has shown that some of these unregulated kratom products contain undisclosed or toxic additives, and synthetic variants known as 7-OH pose even more serious health and overdose risks.

I have introduced House Bill 2058 with Rep. Jim Prokopiak, D-Bucks, to establish a regulatory framework for kratom to protect consumers. The bill would prohibit sales to individuals under 21, ban synthetic kratom products, require testing and clear labeling, and prohibit marketing that targets children.

Let me be clear, kratom has been used for thousands of years to treat pain, anxiety, and other ailments and has significant benefits when used responsibly in its natural form. But Pennsylvanians deserve clear, accurate information about any products they purchase. They deserve confidence that what they purchase is safe and free from toxic additives. And parents deserve reassurance that potentially addictive substances are not being marketed to their children and accessible sitting next to the candy and gum. These sensible guardrails would reduce harm and promote transparency in the marketplace.

Ending court fines and fees for juveniles

Did you know that an inability to pay fines is a leading reason that keeps young people entangled in the justice system? Not reoffending, not violating terms of supervision. Juvenile offenders, inherently, have the best chance of successfully rehabilitating but not if we keep them in the system indefinitely because they are too poor to get out.

House Bill 1385, a bill I introduced as part of a larger package of juvenile justice reforms, would eliminate most fines and fees for juveniles, while still prioritizing restitution for victims. This reform acknowledges both that it is the families and not the children, themselves, who are paying fines and fees, and that keeping a child in the justice system simply because their family cannot afford to pay does not promote accountability — it deepens inequality and limits future opportunities.

Pennsylvania’s juvenile justice system should be grounded in justice, not financial punishment. By focusing on rehabilitation, we can help young people move forward and foster safer communities. No child is born bad and no child’s future should hinge on their ability to pay a court bill.

Building progress together

Turning these bills into law takes sustained effort, partnership, and community engagement. I am proud to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, as well as advocates and residents, to move these priorities forward.

If you have thoughts on these bills or ideas for how state government can better serve our neighborhoods, I encourage you to call my office at (412) 321-5523, email RepKinkead@pahouse.net, or visit us at 658 Lincoln Ave. in Bellevue.

Fineview
Pittsburgh City to Daniel Wetmore at Mountford Ave., parcel 0046-P-00383-0000-00, for $6,740.

Manchester
Woco Holding LLC to Woco Holdings LLC at 1445 Nixon St. for $272,000.

Marshall-Shadeland
Regis Miklos to James Dittler trustee at 1237 Dickson St. for $23,500.
Marie Bucek to Lisa Underwood at 1309 Highwood St. for $134,900.

Perry Hilltop
Brittany Cheeks to S8 Affordable Homes LLC at 2622 N Charles St. for $45,000.

Spring Garden
Pittsburgh City to East Side Property at Itin St., parcel 0024-F-00044-0000-00, for $3,755.

Spring Hill
Estate of Robert Earl Blackwell to GM Prime Investments USA LLC at 1123 Buente St. for $60,000.

Troy Hill
David Meade to Pitt Stop 2 LLC at 1524 Froman St. for $282,500.

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.  Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.

First and foremost, I’m excited about the potential to expand affordable housing across the Commonwealth. The governor’s proposal makes a serious commitment to preserving, protecting, and producing dignified housing in our communities. It includes commonsense reforms like establishing a statewide cap on rental application fees, banning fees before a tenant can even view a property, sealing eviction records for people who were never actually evicted, and capping annual rent increases. Together, these changes protect working families and help more people remain housed — because housing stability is economic stability.

Governor Shapiro also prioritized sustainable funding for public transit — an issue that directly affects our Northside communities. While temporary, stopgap measures are currently keeping systems like Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) afloat, Pennsylvanians deserve stable, reliable funding that protects and expands public transportation for workers, seniors, students, and people with disabilities. That’s why I was encouraged to hear the governor propose increasing the share of Sales and Use Tax revenue dedicated to the Pennsylvania Transportation Trust Fund to 6.15%, beginning July 1, 2027. Investing in transit strengthens our economy, reduces congestion, and keeps people connected to opportunity. Nearly one million Pennsylvanians rely on public transit to get to work, school, the grocery store, and doctor’s appointments — and our budget should reflect that reality.

Finally, with monthly premiums rising, too many families are being forced into impossible choices between putting food on the table, keeping the lights on, or accessing life-saving health care. In 2026, the mere existence of that choice is unacceptable. Governor Shapiro’s budget treats health care as the necessity it is by proposing a $193 million investment of federal funds to launch the state’s first Rural Health Transformation Plan — strengthening the health care workforce and improving access for our neighbors in Central Pennsylvania and beyond.

When we invest in our neighborhoods, Pennsylvania thrives. Harrisburg was buzzing with energy throughout February, and it’s clear my colleagues and I are ready to turn these proposals into real progress for the people we serve.

As always, my office is here to help with Property Tax/Rent Rebates, LIHEAP applications, and other state services. Please call us at (412) 781-2750 or email reppowell@pahouse.net with any questions. 

Be well, 

Lindsay Powell

Tour season for the observatory begins in April and runs through October. This year, tours are taking place on Wednesdays and Fridays. While the tours themselves are free, there is limited space on each tour, and reservations are required, either by calling (412) 321-2400 or by looking up the observatory’s tours on the website Eventbrite.

Although the season is just getting started, those interested in attending these tours are encouraged to sign up soon.

“They fill up sometimes weeks in advance,” said Kerry Handron, outreach coordinator at the observatory.

Check out the April edition of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.

Angels’ Place Inc., the Northside-based nonprofit that provides support to single parents, was named one of the finalists for the $10,000 GBU Foundation Community Grant Award.

The designation was announced on Feb. 9, with a public voting period taking place from Feb. 13 through Feb. 28. Other nominated organizations include the Western Pennsylvania American Diabetes Association, the Mercer County Food Bank, Kettering Children’s Choir and more.

The grant, which is in its third year, was established by The GBU Foundation and GBU Financial Life. The former is a nonprofit that aims to help donors achieve philanthropic goals, and the latter is a Pittsburgh-based fraternal benefit society.

East Deutschtown
JWT Master LLC to North Shore Investments LLC at 843-845 Tripoli St. 8016 for $190,000.

Historic Deutschtown
Blanco Al Holdings LLC to Charleroy LLC at 514 E. Ohio St. for $532,500.

Marshall-Shadeland
Pittsburgh City to Christine Matuszewski at 3228 Mcclure Ave. for $2,200.

Northview Heights
Pittsburgh City to Sandy Keesler Kaminski at 139 Chicago St. for $21,409.

Observatory Hill
Roberta Kardell to Karen Panyi and Isabel Edwards at 218 Bascom Ave. for $142,000.
Cole Harris Carlino to Joshua Edward Bonnett and Jessica Fay Silver at 3823 Perrysville Ave. for $210,000.
Benjamin Tolan to Juliana Muller at 65 Semicir St. for $30,000.

Spring Garden
Welser LLC to Warehouse On Welser LLC at 1239 Welser Way for $55,400.

Spring Hill
Edward Sauer to Maurice Brown at 1706 Rhine St. for $193,750.
James Powers to Tristan Veronie and Lindsay Schmitt at 2201 Harbor St. for $144,255.

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.  Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.

Although maybe not as famous as “chicken on the hill,” I did recently discover a neighborhood spot tucked away on a hill for homemade breakfast that is clearly a home run! Take the hair pin turn onto Goettmann Street at the top of Troy Hill and you will find a quaint historic neighborhood establishment that has been there since the 1950’s where scrumptious, hearty homemade breakfasts are still served! (Read on to learn more about their wonderful food offerings!)

A little history first. In the late 1800’s, Henry and Mary Brehm built a home overlooking the vast Pittsburgh skyline on what was then known as Return Street. This home remained in the Brehm family until 1920. In the 1950’s the building became a well-loved neighborhood bar where locals gathered, enjoyed an ice-cold Iron City, good food, and good company.

Many generations of locals knew this place as Janczak’s, Bummer’s, Orgal’s, Boulpen and, most recently, Tammy’s Place.

However, at the end of October 2023, Troy Hill residents Jeff and Melanie Fletcher became its newest owners and renamed this self-proclaimed “dive” bar as Brehm’s Return to honor its historical roots.

Although Jeff and Melanie surely seem like they have been Pittsburghers all their lives, they are somewhat new to the area. Originally from the state of Georgia, Jeff and Melanie had interesting journeys that landed them atop Troy Hill.

Jeff and Melanie were most recently living and working in Manhattan before finally settling in Pittsburgh. With a background in customer experience and data analysis and a couple of graduate degrees under his belt, Jeff worked as an educator for Teach for America at high-need schools and as a senior researcher for the Community College Research Center. In addition to her professional credentials including those of a Japanese translator, Melanie had the distinct experience as a Harry Winston fabricator. (Yes, “that” Harry Winston with the diamonds.) The most valuable piece of jewelry she worked on was worth $10 million! Wanting to make a switch to corporate life, Melanie chose Carnegie Mellon University to complete her MBA. Once in Pittsburgh, Jeff and Melanie found careers at Thermo Fisher Scientific before becoming “stewards” of Brehm’s Return.

But how in the world did they make it to the top of Troy Hill? It was Melanie’s hybrid CMU program that initially brought them from Manhattan to Pittsburgh for regular visits. After their first drive to Pittsburgh, they looked at each other and said, “This is home” and the search to find a specific neighborhood to call home began.

The search abruptly ended one day during their routine stop at Penn Brewery before heading back to Manhattan. Melanie questioned “who looks for a home on Craig’s list?!” Yet this step resulted in the Fletchers finding a home in 2017 on Troy Hill with an incredible view! Jeff and Melanie warmly describe Pittsburgh as “gritty, friendly, diverse” and a place that “feels like the South but more authentic where people love each other.” This description can also be applied to Brehm’s Return.

After completing their home renovations and well into their Pittsburgh careers, Jeff and Melanie decided to branch out and conduct another search — this time for a “dive” bar. Just a 1/2 mile from their home, they found their match, purchased and preserved Tammy’s Place with an over 70-year history, and saved it from becoming condos.

And preservation is what Jeff and Melane have strived to do as the new owners of Brehm’s Return. Still serving good old ice-cold Iron City (and other adult and local beverages), Brehm’s Return continues the tradition of being a community hub for friends and neighbors to gather, meet new friends, and “enjoy the simple pleasure of a great neighborhood hangout.” Most of the staff at Brehm’s Return live on Troy Hill and some had even worked for the former owner.

A colorful framed sign spelling out ‘‘Brehm’s” made from Tammy’s Place drink tokens hangs on a wall in the dining area underneath which sits a very long table. This unique table came from Jeff’s childhood home and was crafted with heart pine repurposed from an old schoolhouse. Even a vintage photograph of Henry and Mary Brehm adorn the dining area as do an eclectic assortment of vintage pendulum glass lights hanging from the ceiling, original 1970 paneling, and flocked wallpaper. Chess tables designed and created by Melanie are peppered throughout the dining area where chess players come together every Wednesday for “chess night.” Brehm’s Return is truly — as Jeff and Melanie describe on their web site — “proudly old school, unapologetically local, and always welcoming.”

As for the welcoming part I cannot say enough about the Fletchers’ hospitality! From our very first visit, my husband and I were genuinely made to feel like we had been going there for years. J eff and Melanie along with their super friendly staff welcomed us with their smiles and warm greetings, conversation to get to know one another, and their excellent customer service. Even the other patrons greeted us with their friendly hellos! (We’re not special, they treat EVERYONE this way!)

However, keeping tradition and honoring history does not mean you cannot make changes. Although there is the vintage cigarette machine (maintained by a third generation cigarette machine repairman), smoking is no longer permitted in Brehm’s Return. As the Fletchers explain, this action has made their place more inclusive and where families now can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enough about tradition, history, and decor… let’s talk food!

My good friend Lauren — who is a well-established Northsider — introduced me to Brehm’s Return and thought I would like their good casual food. I hesitated a bit thinking this would be the run of the mill “bar food.” To my delight, I found that the food was neither ordinary bar food nor good food — it was great food!

My first encounter was with their cheese steak wrap that rivals what you might order in Philly but tastier! The well-seasoned grill imparts a distinctive flavor to the flat steak, onions, and peppers blanketed by a combination of melted provolone and mozzarella cheeses. Topped with lettuce and tomatoes this wrap will satisfy the heartiest of appetites. It tickled my tastebuds to the point that I returned the week after and ordered the cheese steak again.

My husband loves (and makes the very best) grilled cheese sandwiches and is a bit of a grilled cheese snob. The way he likes his grilled cheese is with tomatoes grilled on the inside and a combination of gooey cheeses. For him, Brehm’s “Inside Out Grilled Cheese Sandwich” checks all the boxes. The combination of mozzarella, provolone, American, and Swiss cheeses nestled in with tomato slices and grilled to perfection is a real winner.

The sandwich which is a customer favorite is Brehm’s burger. It is slightly unpretentious and modeled after a burger from a restaurant Jeff and Melanie frequented in Athens, Georgia. Consisting of a beef patty served with American cheese, onions, pickles, and mustard, it is simply delicious. All sandwiches come with chips or for a very modest additional charge, you can have fries or a salad.

The real treat came when I found out Brehm’s Return also served breakfast! Pittsburgh diners watch out; this is THE new place for breakfast.

Akin to a homey diner during breakfast hours, Brehm’s offerings are homemade (yes from scratch), utterly delicious, and different. My personal favorite is a traditional Mexican dish that you will not find just anywhere. It is Chilaquiles — tortilla chips tossed in homemade salsa Roja and topped with Cotija cheese, pickled onion, and sour cream, two fried eggs, and served with a side of scratch-made refried beans. This dish is to die for.

And if you like to add a little extra spice to your food (like I do), Brehm’s has a crate full of assorted hot sauces to choose from. If you prefer a more classic breakfast of eggs, breakfast meats, toast, and real home fries; Brehm’s can hook you up. And if you crave something a little sweeter, try Melanie’s homemade ‘monkey bread’ — a cinnamon laden pull apart bread of utter joy for your tastebuds. For you late risers, Brehm’s serves breakfast until 2 p.m.

Although the Fletchers affectionately call their establishment a “dive bar,” that should not deter you from visiting! The dive bar atmosphere is intended to be “approachable, welcoming, inclusive and accessible” with no judgement, offering “options anyone can afford.” And Brehm’s Return is just that — a neighborhood spot which is friendly, open to all, and where you immediately feel right at home. So, the next time you are hungry and in the mood to try a different and friendly “dive bar,” take a quick drive up to Troy Hill and enjoy a mouthwatering and hearty breakfast on the hill at Brehm’s Return.

Brehm’s Return is open on Mondays from 3 p.m. to midnight and Tuesdays through Sundays, 9 a.m. to midnight. It is located at 1354 Goettmann St. in scenic Troy Hill. For more information, visit brehmsreturn.com/

The proposal will now move on to city council for its approval.

The application proposed that the current city historic district, which currently encompasses streets between West North Avenue and Sampsonia Way from Drovers Way to Sherman Avenue, expand several blocks deeper into the Central Northside and four blocks west to Reddour Street.

The proposed expansion would allow the city historic district to match the preexisting national historic district.

The application was submitted by former Central Northside resident Kirk Burkley in collaboration with the Central Northside Neighborhood Council and the Mexican War Streets Society.

The CNNC believes that expanding the historic district would be beneficial to the community who would have more leverage in dictating infill housing and demolition projects on those streets because the HRC would review proposed projects in the historic district.

“I think it’s important, especially with the infill, that we have some say in the character and scale of new construction in the neighborhood,” said Randi Marshak, CNNC vice president. “We urge city council to take the final step and expand the Mexican War Streets Historic District city boundaries.”

Marshak noted that studies done by the United States Housing and Urban Development Department show that Historic Districts include a wide variety of housing types and help long term residents to continue living in their homes.

Studies further prove that historic districts promote diversity among their residents.

“City council designating this area as a city historic district will not only preserve a great community asset of historic architecture but also our greatest asset of a diverse community.”

After reviewing the boundaries, the HRC initially excluded several blocks, including Alpine Avenue and blocks of Sampsonia Way and Jacksonia Street, because there were not enough intact historic buildings or the buildings weren’t contiguous enough to be considered a historic district.

However, despite the concerns, the HRC approved the entire district as it was originally proposed.

The proposal will be passed on to City Council for approval in early March.

According to Eric Setzler, the chief engineer on the project with DOMI, Slide 4 is most likely the next landslide the department will seek to address, probably within the next year or two depending on funding availability.

Setzler said DOMI prioritized landslides depending on their size and impact to travel through the park. Slide 9, for example, was the first DOMI remediated back in 2022, and is located near the park’s Chapel Shelter, along the main thoroughfare through Riverview.

“We have gotten to the biggest, most critical ones,” he said.

Check out the April edition of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.

The inaugural session, held February 25 entitled “From Drift to Direction: The Leadership System That Changes Everything,” introduced participants to a practical leadership framework designed to address one of the most common challenges I have seen in nearly two decades of consulting: lack of clarity. Leadership rarely fails because people do not care; it fails because people lack direction. Across industries including nonprofit, manufacturing, healthcare, finance, education, and entrepreneurship, I have seen talented, hardworking individuals burn out or spin their wheels, not from lack of effort, but from lack of focus. During the workshop, participants explored what I call the PVD System: Purpose, Vision, and Disciplines. Purpose asks why we do what we do and what truly drives us. Vision clarifies where we are going and what we are intentionally building. Disciplines define how we consistently show up to make that vision real. Without purpose, leaders drift. Without vision, leaders react. Without disciplines, leaders burn out. Attendees worked through practical exercises to clarify personal motivations, define intentional outcomes, and identify the daily disciplines required to lead effectively, leaving with tools they could immediately apply within their teams and organizations. As I told the group, “Leadership is not about position. It’s about intention, discipline, and follow- through.”

In a world defined by rapid technological advancements in AI, automation, and constant connectivity, the most important differentiator of success remains unchanged: a person’s ability to work effectively with other people. Technology can scale systems and increase efficiency, but leadership creates trust, alignment, accountability, and momentum. Every organization is ultimately a construct of people working toward a shared purpose. When leaders struggle, organizations struggle. When leaders grow, organizations grow. As one of my mentors once told me, if you take care of people, money takes care of itself.

The February session focused on self-leadership as the foundation of all effective influence. Future sessions in the Leadership Edge Series will build on that groundwork, guiding participants into leading teams with clarity and accountability, communicating with confidence and purpose, managing conflict in healthy and productive ways, and building cultures rooted in ownership rather than blame. “This series is where the missions of the Chamber and High Performance meet,” I said. “The Chamber exists to support businesses and professionals. High Performance exists to support leaders, the people inside those businesses who carry responsibility, influence culture, and shape outcomes every day.” The long-term aim is not simply stronger individual leaders, but healthier leadership cultures, environments where people understand why their work matters, feel supported and challenged, and are empowered to think, decide, and act responsibly.

Burnout is real. Decision fatigue is real. Drift is real. Disengagement in the workplace remains a persistent challenge, and it is often not a motivation problem but a leadership problem. People do not need more pressure; they need more clarity. They need leaders who can lead themselves under pressure, have courageous conversations, create alignment without micromanagement, and build trust while maintaining high standards. As I shared with participants, “Nothing is more fulfilling than helping others reach their goals and dreams. That is the purpose of leadership.” The Leadership Edge Series is open to emerging leaders, managers, business owners, and executives throughout the region and is designed to be practical, reflective, and challenging. I am grateful to Carrie Nolan Robson and the Northside | Northshore Chamber of Commerce for creating space for this work and for prioritizing meaningful leadership development for their members. At its core, leadership is not about titles or tactics; it is about helping people live fulfilled and impactful lives. When leaders do that, everything else tends to take care of itself.

Business leaders, managers, and emerging professionals who are ready to move from drift to direction are encouraged to participate in the upcoming sessions of the Leadership Edge Series. Each fourth Wednesday through October will build on the foundation established in February, offering practical tools and meaningful dialogue for those committed to leading with greater clarity and impact. To view upcoming Leadership Edge topics and access registration information, visit the Northside | Northshore Chamber of Commerce website and explore the Chamber’s events calendar.

Brighton Heights
US Bank Na Tr to Ariana Cort at 3604 Brighton Road for $137,550.
Estate of Virginia Jean Buchmann to Chloe Schoepflin at 3506 Gerber Ave. for $258,000.
Duane Nauman to Zhichuan Zhao at 3321 Minnie St. for $38,500.
Estate of Helen Dubisak Rose to KLG Real Estate Inc. at 1853 Wittmer St. for $112,000.

Marshall-Shadeland
Laron Lane to Amber Watson at 1306 Gifford St. for $5,000.
Estate of Edward Obuchowsky to Joseph and Stacey Himmelstein White at 821 Grand Ave. for $75,000.

Perry Hilltop
Patrick Connors to Gregory Higbee at 847 Maginn St. for $77,000.

Spring Hill
Pittsburgh City to Jarvey Klein at 1313 Itin St. for $4,776.

Troy Hill
Peter Ai Moei to CJA Rentals LLC at 1337 Lowrie St. for $65,000.

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.  Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.
 

The Northside is home to two of Pittsburgh’s most historic islands: Brunot Island and Washington’s Landing. However, the development of these two islands reveals an interesting contrast when put into perspective.

The island known as Brunot Island is made up of 129 acres of land. Brunot Island is located on the Ohio River, about one mile from downtown Pittsburgh. Today, Brunot Island is home to a power generating station containing a natural gas plant.

Meanwhile, Washington’s Landing, also known as Herrs Island, is comparatively almost a third of the size; ranging 42 acres of land across its borders, Washington’s Landing is located on the Allegheny River, and is home to residential living and light industry according to the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh.

W hile both islands were developed by small groups of settlers in pre industrial times, both saw drastic changes impacted by the industrial revolution, leaving behind little to no room for residential opportunity. However, today Washington’s landing stands as both a symbol of riverfront residency and a recreational hub of Pittsburgh.

Meanwhile, Brunot Island continues to hold onto its industrial roots. The question stands of why Washington’s landing was able to redevelop and create such opportunity, while Brunot is left in industrial standing.

In an interview with The Chronicle, District Two Representative Theresa Smith talked about her experience with the island, explaining that Brunot Island was only recently integrated into her district from the Northside.

When asked about the topic of Brunot Island today, Smith said “There’s lots of discussion, a lot of young people with more vision, great ideas and a lot of high hopes. There’s a lot of people in the community wondering what we can do, and what opportunities are in the area.”

Smith added on to this concept by including an interaction she had with the public, saying “according to some of the people who have talked to me, they love the idea of having different recreational offerings. They love thinking of the idea of it being some type of park or some type of area where it can be a tourist attraction, but we require something to help us get there, so that’s one of the things they are actually talking about.”

Smith finished her statement saying, “Coming up with all these ideas, I’m like what can I do? They sound great, but in reality I can’t even get a fence painted or trees cut in Mount Washington right now.”

According to the National Park Service, Dr. Felix Brunot operated a farm on Brunot island until 1819, coining the title it holds today, during which, the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition made its first stop, arriving on Brunot Island on August 31, 1803.

Captain Meriweather Lewis was a friend of Dr. Brunot; however, not long after Lewis touched down on Brunot Island, a startling chain of events unfolded.

According to Gary E. Moulton’s “The Definite Journals of Lewis and Clark” Lewis landed upon the shore of Brunot Island, and was subsequently invited by a group of men to present his airgun. Lewis demonstrated his marksmanship to the men upon his arrival on shore. Lewis then almost spelled disaster when allowing Blaze Cenas, a man on the island, to handle his rifle, upon which Cenas accidentally discharged the firearm.

According to Lewis’s quote, the bullet flew through a nearby woman’s hat standing about 40 yards away, leaving an injury on her temple, though luckily inflicting no real damage.

Brunot island continued its agricultural purpose up until 1894; however, Dr. Brunot himself departed from the island when selling it in 1819. According to the National Park Service, this was due to a large flood that occurred in the region during the year 1811, in which Dr. Brunot watched his farm’s infrastructure collapse and be swept away in the process. It could be speculated that Brunot Island’s proneness to flooding played a role in the island seeing no similar residential development to that of Washington’s Landing.

In 1894, amidst The Industrial Revolution, major change came to Brunot Island, with entrepreneurial industrialist George Westinghouse acquiring the island, according to the NPS. Westinghouse was both an American patriot and visionary, fleeing home from age 15 in order to serve in the Civil War, according to the Library of Congress.

During the 1880s, the greater Pittsburgh region held an abundance in natural gas, however technological and scientific prowess were lacking in order to harness this dangerous but powerful energy source. Westinghouse took this as a challenge, putting time and research into harnessing this energy source, acquiring a patent titled the “System for Conveying and Utilizing Gas Under Pressure,” in which he used to expand his energy company only about a decade before his purchase of Brunot Island, according to the Westinghouse Memorial website.

According to the NPS, within a decade of purchasing Brunot Island, its first electrical plant was constructed by Westinghouse’s facilities, shaping the island’s purpose that is present today.

However, Brunot Island is not the only island of the Northside to have significant figures of American History appear on its shore, nor is it the only one to have an almost catastrophic event. In fact, Herrs Island’s history goes even farther back than that of Brunot Island, while being the significantly smaller of the two.

The name “Washington’s Landing,” may seem to be a new concept to some older folk that still remember Herrs Island, however the history of this phrase goes past the settlement of Benjamin Herr.

According to Carnegie Mellon University, it all began in 1753 with the famous near-death experience of then-21year-old Major George Washington, the future first President of the United States. According to Mount Vernon’s website, On Dec. 11, after conducting an unsuccessful diplomatic mission with the French Commander at Fort Le Boeuf, Washington and his guide Christopher Gist found industrial livestock center that it is remembered for today.

The history that Washington’s Landing is commonly known for today didn’t take full effect until 1903, with a legislative passing in 1906 being the driving factor. According to the National Agricultural Library, “The Twenty-Eight Hour Law was originally passed on March 3, 1873. The law was then repealed and reenacted in 1906 and again in 1994 to set humane standards for the transportation of livestock.”

This law was passed with the intention for livestock being transported for longer than 28 hours to be rightfully due for a five hour resting period, in which they could feed and hydrate before continuing transport. This course of legal action led to the development that transitioned Herrs Island from a center of oil and lumber industry, to the livestock and packing legacy it holds today.

Ray Meyer is a lifelong Northsider who remembers Herrs Island during its industrial prime, as well as the events that reshaped the island into Washington’s Landing today.

In an interview conducted by The Chronicle, Raymond said “growing up, there were train loads and truck loads of cattle and hogs being delivered to Herrs Island, and then going to the slaughter house, I do remember a lot of people — even my next door neighbor that worked in packing, so it did create a lot of jobs on that island.”

Meyer explained how the industrial complex of Herrs island shaped the neighborhood he lived in.

“There were quite a few people on Troy Hill that literally walked to work,” he said “They walked the city steps that went down Rialto street — which a lot of people called Pig Hill.”

While Meyer cannot confirm the historic accuracy of his statement, he claims that Pig Hill was nicknamed after the livestock that were chased down hill by farmers to the packing plant on Herrs Island. However, Meyer also claimed learning later on from one Pittsburgh historian, that upon arrival livestock were in fact chased up the hill and into Spring Garden, as Meyer recalls a second packing place located across from Spring Garden school.

“Again, you heard it two different ways, but that’s how it came to be, nobody on Troy Hill ever called it Rialto street, it was called Pig Hill,” he said.

According to the Brookline Connection, in 1903 the Pennsylvania Railroad purchased a portion of the land as a resting ground between its route from Chicago to New York, in part to abide by the new federal legislation.

However, the Historic Pittsburgh website cites that the first stockyards were actually constructed in 1885, which would be in accordance with the legislative’s first attempt at being realized. According to Historic Pittsburgh, this slow but sure transition into livestock and packing would ultimately lead to Herrs Island becoming America’s 10th largest livestock terminal—from as early as 1903 up until 1950.

This hub of livestock was split between two separate companies, the Pittsburgh Joint Stock Yards and the Pittsburgh Provision company, which not only operated the slaughter house but included public events such as auctions and livestock shows.

*Editor’s note: This is the end of Part 1 of the article. Check in the April edition for Part 2.

Module Living LLC to Konario East Coast Collective LLC at 1211 Boyle St. for $480,000.

Alessandro Fascetti to Patrick Philbin at 523 N Taylor Ave. for $375,000.

JRMAN Ventures LLC to Jason Dante Calentino at 612 N. Taylor Ave. for $1,025,000.

Jordan Bohannon to Dean and Douglas Dominick at 942 W. North Ave. for $729,000.

TM Real Estate Group LLC to Buena Vista Property Holdings LLC at 1527 Federal St. for $705,000. Henry Burke Sweet to Jonathan and Alexis Baldwin at 1366 Federal St. for $495,000.

Allegheny West

Estate of Michael Coleman to Daniel Jerome Sprumont and Jaclyn Lee Gillespie at 842 N. Lincoln Ave. for $625,000.

Brighton Heights

Donna Marie Scullon to Pamela Heim at 3232 California Ave. for $150,000.

Kesete Thompkins to 412 Lamar LLC at 1851 Chellis St. for $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $146,700).

International Real Estate Consulting LLC to AB Dallas Properties LLC at 3242 Richardson Ave. for $100,000.

Sinatrox Family Holdings LLC to Nicholas Camerlengo and Abigail Walsh at 4024 Oswald St. for $298,000.

TH Property Owner 1 LLC to LMRK Owner 1 LLC at 1420 Benton Ave. for $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $686,600).

Michael Alberter to Josephine LLC at 3917-3919 California Ave. for $290,000.

John Tabacchi to Ojutobi Ekunfeo at 3831 McClure Ave. for $265,000.

True Vine LLC to PGH Property Solutions LLC at 3949 Mcclure Ave. for $10 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $199,000).

Larone Knight to Golden Foster at 1418 Reuben St. for $295,000.

Jessica Baker to John Kratsa at 122 Bookbinder Cir for $227,000.

Carol Romano to Lawrence Michael and Linda Andrews Ehrlich at 412 Chandler Pl for $270,000.

Good & Moore Real Estate Holdings LLC to Matthew Toenjes at 1901 Termon Ave. for $292,000.

California-Kirkbride

Northside Properties R&S LLC to Northside Properties Residences 1 LLC at 1714 Brighton Pl for $7,500.

Northside Properties R&S LLC to Northside Properties Residences 1 LLC at California Ave., parcel 0022-G00186-0000-00, for $2,000.

Lucas Sasala to Joseph Borsuk and Kimberly Watterson at 1711 Brighton Place for $406,100.

Estate of Kristy Yi Lin Oshita to Kevin Hamby and Melva Loock at 1532 Marquis Way for $205,000.

Charles Street Valley

Northside Properties R&S LLC to Northside Properties Residences 1 LLC at Josh Gibson Drive, parcel 0045M-00080-0000-00, for $1,500.

East Deutschtown

Creative Solutions Investments LLC to FFHB Rickenbach LLC at 908 Ahlers Way for $170,000.

Bloomfield Plum Associates to Zaphkhan Investments LTD at 1030 Chestnut St. for $110,000.

Steve Hernandez to 913 Peralta LLC at 913 Peralta St. for $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $119,201).

Fineview

TH Property Owner 1 LLC to LMRK Owner 1 LLC at 1706 Sandusky North St. for $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $590,400).

Historic Deutschtown

Mark Yost Jr. to Don and Jessica Frandsen at 914 James St. for $500,000.

Wesbanco Bank Inc. to Huong Le trustee at 811 Middle St. for $10 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $365,000).

Manchester

Duncan & Porter House LLC to Aashmont Properties LLC at 1615 Manhattan St. for $95,000.

Estate of Karen Louise Kelly to JB5 Investments PI 1 LLC at 1919 Manhattan St. for $75,000.

Pittsburgh City to Northside Church God at Chateau St., parcel 0022-E-00269-0000-00, for $1,500. Tyriq Nesbit to Arletta Wilkes at 1222 Pennsylvania Ave. for $225,000.

Marshall-Shadeland

Richard Frankowski to Neil Randall Sinagra at 1431 Woods Run Ave. for $150,000.

Kevin Beck to Marie Barcic at 3128 Brighton Road for $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $101,888).

Investment Properties Group Inc. to Bristol Home Holdings LLC at 1215 Dickson St. for $56,500.

David Gardner to Charles McHenry at 1251 Ingham St. for $250,000.

David Koloskee trustee to Langtry Townhomes LLC at 1108 Langtry St. for $150,000.

PA Beginings LLC to OV CC North Hills LLC at 3148 McClure Ave. for $265,000.

Real Deals LLC to Morgan JP Chase Bank at 1210 Woodland Ave. for $75,000 by sheriff’s deed.

Service With A Purpose Inc. to Collier Development Co. Inc. at 3108 Mcclure Ave. for $80,000.

Estate of Robert Reisch to Kameron Kline at 3240-1/2 Rothpletz St. for $215,000.

Matthew Petrovich to Next Move Property Investors 5 LLC at 1015 Smithton Ave. for $1 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $68,456).

Eleven One LLC to Juicedhousing Inc. at 3143 Wadlow St. for $60,000.

Santo Andolina Jr. to Zhichuan Zhao at 2722 McDowell St. for $50,500.

Carmen Arana to Carolee Shearer at 1188 New Hampshire Drive for $110,000.

Barrett Stephens to James Dickerson at 1129 Palen Way for $39,004.

Observatory Hill

OGR Realty 3 L.P. to David Richard Nagel III at 16 Watson Blvd. for $205,000.

Teresa Gadberry to Tatum Grogan at 3608 Perrysville Ave. for $184,900.

Black Knights LLC to SWW Acquisition Group LLC at 3626-3628 Perrysville Ave. for $277,500.

Rearden Properties L.P. to Todd Christopher Ridenour and Patricia Ann Cloonan at 3340 Portola St. for $247,700.

Pittsburgh City to Ryan McNally at 118 Bascom Ave. for $400 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $3,200).

Kevin Brown to 3235 Orleans Street LLC at 3233-3235 Orleans St. for $100,000.

US Bank Trust NA to Darwil Shawn Copeland at 4030 Perrysville Ave. for $52,501. Greg Manganas to Thomas Naughton at 3929 Evergreen Road for $40,000.

Robert Fuchs to Alexander Tomak at 4033 Perrysville Ave. for $127,000.

Perry Hilltop

Alecia Rokes to Philip Michael Milostan and Morgan Ream at 2836 Perrysville Ave. for $150,000.

Estate of Mary Vance to Jacob Moroni Farr trustee at 1910 N. Charles St. for $50,000.

Pittsburgh City to Paul Kowal at Ellis St., parcel 0077-P-00315-0000-00, for $3,800.

Frank Horvath to Jianhui Miao at 442 Kennedy Ave. for $75,000.

Ricardo Suzensky V to Luka Stratimirovic at 133 Marshall Ave. for $261,500.

So Yo Holdings LLC to Rex Petersen at 410 Marshall Ave. for $43,000.

Wolfpack Investment Group LLC to Steven Wilt and Holly Bender Bell at 522 Suffolk St. for $195,000.

St. Lawrence Properties LLC to RCF 2 Acquisition Trust at 2114 Perrysville Ave. for $50,000 by sheriff’s deed.

Estate of Alfred Trautman to Xiuhua Wang at 123 E. Kennedy Ave. for $15,000.

Spring Garden

Pittsburgh Land Bank to Van Dong at 1257 High St. for $19,000.

Erik Bimbo to Freedom Partnership LLC at 1264 High St. for $11,000.

Pittsburgh City to Carlos Rangel at Voskamp St., parcel 0024-C-00320-0000-00, for $200 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $1,791).

Pittsburgh Land Bank to Freedom Partnership LLC at 1266 High St. for $5,000.

Estate of Donald Bigley Jr. to Valbros LLC at 1231 Basin St. for $70,000.

Sequoia Real Estate Group LLC to Schneiders Properties LLC at 1261 High St. for $38,900.

Spring Hill

Jason Durler to Harry Hardman III and Ilyssa Freiburger at 1143 Buente St. for $122,500. Welcome Hill to Derek Littlejohn at 14 Shank St. for $82,000.

Hiland Park Capital LLC to Jeffrey Wang at 38 Rostock St. for $165,000.

Tyche Properties LLC to Bradley John Kowalski at 1720 Homer St. for $145,000.

Summer Hill

Steven Cvetkovic to Michael Kelly at 237 Ames St. for $85,000.

MFRA Trust 2015 to Jonathan and Chelsy Gevas at 3875 Harpen Road for $600,000.

Pittsburgh City to Terrence and Robin Bull at 419 Marshall Ave. for $3,200 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $6,368).

Jeffrey Labella to James McFetridge and Keirsten Evans at 4564 Zane Place for $320,000.

Troy Hill

3 Rivers Investment Group LLC to Max Juriga and Shannon Dipietro at 2101 Eggers St. for $416,000. Luckey Holdings LLC to Aaron Clark and Giuseppe Fleres at 1350 Goettman St. for $295,000.

Mark Sepe to Dante Tomas Colorito at 1438 Lowrie St. for $183,000.

Proceso LLC to EK1812NPA LLC at 1812 Niggel St. for $185,600.

RIVERVIEW PARK — Last summer, the new Davis Avenue Pedestrian Bridge was opened to the public, once more reconnecting Brighton Heights directly to Riverview Park after 26 years. Now, a new 5k race is set to take advantage of that crossing.

The li’l bridgey 5k will hold its inaugural run on May 30 starting, and ending, at the Davis Avenue Bridge. The race will take runners on a scenic, though not unchallenging, route through Riverview Park.

The race is the co-creation of Benjamin Cole and Patrick Sanders, who organize the Lil Swervy Run Club. The group meets every Sunday and Thursday in Legion Park (located in Brighton Heights) for regular runs. However, this is the first formal 5k race Cole and Sanders have organized.

“The one thing Patrick and I are really focusing on with the race is the community,” Cole told The Chronicle in an interview.

Check out the April issue of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.

Back in September 2025, I introduced Bill 2025-2250 to address the growing clustering of vape shops in our neighborhoods and to prevent these businesses from targeting young people. The bill creates a new use category in the Zoning Code for businesses that primarily sell vaping products, CBD, and similar goods. It would prohibit new vape shops from opening within 1,000 feet of any primary or secondary school, licensed daycare facility, or another vape shop to reduce overconcentration and establish reasonable buffers around places where children and families gather.

The bill will soon head to the Planning Commission for a required briefing and public hearing. Following the Commission’s review and recommendation, the legislation will return to City Council for a public hearing and final vote. You can find more information on the Planning Commission’s webpage, including how to submit public comments or sign up to speak at the hearing. I encourage residents to participate and share their input.

Last month, my office joined Police Chief Lando, a representative from Mayor O’Connor’s Community Affairs Office, and residents in East Deutschtown for a short-term rental walking tour. We walked along Phineas, Peralta, Constance, Chestnut, Suismon, and Tripoli Streets to hear directly from neighbors and see firsthand the impact these properties are having on residential blocks. Within the area bounded by Phineas to Madison and Vista to Vinial, there are 44 short-term rentals (STRs) that we are aware of. Blossom Way has essentially become an alley lined almost entirely with STRs. The scale and density in such a small footprint reflect the real impact on quality of life in our neighborhoods.

Given what we saw and heard, I am glad to see Bill 2026-0008 and Bill 2026-0009 continuing to move forward at Council. Bill 2026-0009, the zoning portion of the STR legislation, has been sent to the Planning Commission for a required briefing and public hearing. Bill 2026-0008, the licensing portion, has been held temporarily to ensure it advances in coordination with the zoning bill.

I also want to highlight the launch of UpKeep, a new riverfront care initiative created through a partnership between the City of Pittsburgh and Riverlife. This effort is focused on improving the quality, consistency, and coordination of maintenance along our 15-mile riverfront loop. Through shared standards and collaboration with partners such as Allegheny CleanWays, Friends of the Riverfront, Landforce, and the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Up-Keep will help ensure our parks, trails, and green spaces remain clean, safe, and welcoming year-round.

UpKeep represents a long-term investment in the public spaces that define our city. The initiative will deliver $6 million in maintenance over the next decade and is backed by a 20-year agreement between the City and Riverlife to sustain and expand the initiative. The program addresses routine needs such as litter and debris removal, vegetation management, pressure washing, and site-specific care. This is about ensuring our riverfronts continue to serve residents and visitors for generations to come.

Last month, the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) hosted a community meeting on the East Ohio Street Streetscape Improvements Project. The plan aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and overall quality of the streetscape for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Residents had the opportunity to review preliminary designs, ask questions, and provide feedback on how this important corridor can better serve our community.

I encourage you to review the plans and share your feedback with DOMI. The project details are available on the City’s Engage Pittsburgh page: https://engage. pittsburghpa.gov/east-ohio-st-streetscape-improvements If you have any questions or concerns, call us at (412) 255-2135, email us at district1@ pittsburghpa.gov, find us on Facebook and X, and sign up for our newsletter (https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/City-Government/City-Council/Districts/Bobby-Wilson-District-1). My staff and I look forward to hearing from you!

Marshall-Shadeland
Tony Patterson to Zeal Ventures PA 2 LLC at 2814 California Ave. for $98,500.
Jayz Property Solutions LLC to EMCO 412 LLC at 1030 Grand Ave. for $45,000.

Observatory Hill
Estephany Funez Arela Zoila to Angela Brundage at 3830 Baytree St. for $165,000.

Perry Hilltop
Penn Pioneer Enterprises LLC to AB Property Development LLC at 749 Chautauqua Ct for $60,000.
Pittsburgh City to Mitchell Thompson at Norwood Ave., parcel 0046-A-00049-0000-00, for $200 (state deed transfer stamps indicate a value of $28,700).

Summer Hill
RHK Hodlings LLC to Jack Sweeney and Ji Youn Park at 3512 Sirius St. for $255,000.

Real Estate Transactions provided by <RealSTATs>.  Contact <RealSTATs> at 412-381-3880 or visit www.RealSTATs.net.
 

“We’re incredibly thankful to our local residents and neighbors for their patience and understanding throughout this renovation,” said Michele Charmello, executive director of the Allegheny YMCA.

After closing in February 2025, the YMCA has spent the past year transforming its wellness spaces, updating accessibility features and modernizing equipment. Renovations originally began with the goal of reopening in January of this year. However, delays in construction pushed that date back by two months.

When doors reopen, members will have access to a redesigned wellness floor, group exercise studio, weight room and renovated locker rooms.

The cardio floor, on the main level of the facility is a bright, airy space with plenty of natural light that looks out onto Monterey Street. It features new flooring, fresh paint and new light fixtures. The log cabin room, also on the main floor, will be reserved as a nook for community members to use.

For decades, the building lacked air conditioning and accessibility ramps. The renovation brings the facility into ADA compliance. Along with the men’s and women’s locker rooms in the basement, there is now a family locker room that features an adult changing table and a shower with a bench.

“One of the most important parts of this renovation was making the building accessible to all of our community members,” Charmello said. “These updates ensure everyone can fully use the facility.”

A new accessibility ramp has been installed on the pool deck. A new lining is also slated to be installed in the pool.

Before closing, the Allegheny YMCA served approximately 650 families, along with hundreds more participating in after-school care, summer camp and other programs, according to the organization. Ahead of reopening, the organization is offering a $0 join fee to encourage residents to return.

Membership operations will resume in early-mid March 2026. Childcare, with space for 38 children, is expected to open in September 2026. Residential renovations — including 89 single- room occupancy affordable housing units — are scheduled for completion in January 2027.

The childcare center is designed for infants through pre-school age children. The childcare center is a large, open room that has a lot of character featuring original wood paneling. The room overlooks Allegheny Commons Park West, where the YMCA hosts outdoor events through their strong relationship with Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, said Andrew Kowalewski, YMCA Communications Director.

While the facilities, including the gymnasium, pool, cardio room and log cabin room have received a facelift, the original character has remained intact throughout.

The original wainscoting from throughout the building has been restored in the main entryway and many of the east-facing windows still feature their original wavy glass. The windows were removed and restored in New Jersey before being reinstalled, preserving the glass panes that have witnessed the arrival of the Andy Warhol Museum, the implosion of the Three Rivers Stadium and the construction of PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium.

YMCA officials said the renovation reflects their broader effort to ensure the facility continues to be able to act as a community anchor for decades to come.

In the basement, the space for the group exercise studio and weight room were found after tearing down temporary walls that had over time become permanent. Throughout the building, original hand painted signage remains.

Komalewski said that the project is ultimately about rebuilding a community space.

“Most importantly, we want to say thank you [to the community],” Komalewski said. “The patience, loyalty and support shown throughout this renovation mean more than words can express. This project is about more than walls and equipment— it’s about creating a welcoming place where families come together, neighbors connect and the community stays healthy and active for generations to come.”

The YMCA also plans to host an open house shortly after reopening, where residents will be invited to tour the renovated facility, meet staff and learn about new programs. Officials said details will be announced closer to the reopening date.

“We’re just excited to open and share this space with the community,” Charmello said.

The Allegheny YMCA is located at 600 W. North Ave. To contact the organization, call (412) 773-6440. n

Maybe you need more space.

Maybe working from home turned your dining room into a permanent office.

Maybe the layout just doesn’t match how you live now.

If your current house is starting to feel like it’s holding you back instead of supporting your life, it’s natural to think about making a move. But that brings up the next big question: once you sell, where do you go?

For a growing number of buyers, the answer is something brand new.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), more people are buying new homes than they have in years. The latest annual data available shows 16% of homes purchased were newly built.

At first glance you may not see why that’s a big deal. But that’s actually the highest share of new home purchases in almost two decades.

Why More Buyers Are Choosing a Brand-New Construction

For many buyers, especially move-up buyers, new construction isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about lifestyle, convenience, and peace of mind.

1. Everything Is Brand New

You’re not inheriting someone else’s projects. No wondering how old the roof is. No budgeting for a new HVAC right after move-in. No big surprises when the previous owners patch job fails. For move-up buyers who’ve been dumping money into updating their current house, that’s a win.

2. You Can Customize Before Move In

If you choose a home that’s still under construction, you could have the chance to pick the flooring, counters, cabinets, hardware, lighting, and so much more. That level of personalization can be a draw for move-up buyers like you, because it allows you to hand pick the fit and finishes you’ve been wanting for so long.

3. A Home Designed for How People Live Today

Most new construction homes are built to current building standards and buyer preferences, which means you could see built-in smart home features, better energy efficiency (which can lower utility bills), and even more modern floor plans and features. And if your layout just isn’t working for you anymore, you may find exactly what you need now in a new home.

4. Neighborhood Amenities

New developments often include shared community spaces like walking trails, parks, playgrounds, or even pools and gyms. For families and active households, that’s a big bonus to have that just a few steps out of their front door.

5. Builder Incentives

Not to mention, since there are more new homes on the market than the norm, builders are motivated to sell what they have. So, you may find they’re more willing to negotiate than you’d expect on things like price, upgrades, and more.

Bottom Line

If your current house isn’t meeting your needs anymore, don’t assume your only choice is an existing home. New construction is becoming a real contender, especially for move-up buyers who want space, features, and a home that works for how they live now.

“There is no shortage of new construction in the Central Northside in almost all price ranges. DM/e-mail/call me to see if any fits your needs!”

Curious whether new construction might be a fit for you? Let’s chat.

Two important but often overlooked components of healthy aging are proactive senior care planning and metabolic health, including liver wellness. Together, they form a powerful foundation for living well at every age.

One of the most persistent myths about aging is that accepting support means giving up independence. The opposite is often true.

Today’s senior living communities are designed around active living, offering environments where residents can stay physically engaged, socially connected, and nutritionally supported while knowing help is available if and when it’s needed. Many communities offer a continuum of care, allowing residents to transition seamlessly from independent living to assisted living or memory care without leaving familiar surroundings.

Movement is a cornerstone of healthy aging. Walking clubs, chair yoga, balance classes, and water fitness programs help preserve strength and mobility while reducing the risk of falls. These activities aren’t about pushing limits; they’re about maintaining confidence in daily life.

Equally important are nutrition and social connection. Regular, balanced meals and shared dining experiences support energy levels and reduce isolation, two critical factors in long-term health.

As one senior living resident shared after making the move, “I didn’t realize how much my world had shrunk until it got bigger again.” That renewed sense of engagement often leads to improved physical and emotional health.

While staying active and socially connected is essential, internal health matters just as much, especially metabolic health. One condition gaining increasing attention is fatty liver disease, now known as Metabolic Dysfunction- Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD).

MASLD affects approximately one in four adults in the United States, yet many people are unaware they have it. The condition occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver, impairing its ability to function properly. Over time, it can progress to inflammation, scarring, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer if left untreated.

Unlike alcoholic liver disease, MASLD occurs without excessive alcohol use. Its primary drivers are metabolic conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol, conditions that become more common with age.

Lifestyle factors also play a major role. Diets high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and saturated fats, combined with inactivity, significantly increase risk. Genetics and certain medical conditions, including sleep apnea, can also contribute.

One of the challenges of MASLD is that it often develops silently. Early symptoms, such as persistent fatigue, mild discomfort in the upper right abdomen, or elevated liver enzymes can easily be dismissed as normal aging.

Routine blood work and simple screening tools, such as the FIB-4 score, can help identify risk early. When detected in its early stages, MASLD is often reversible through lifestyle changes, including improved nutrition, regular physical activity, and weight management.

The good news is that the same habits that support active aging movement, balanced nutrition, social engagement, and proactive healthcare also support liver health.

For families, the new year is an ideal time to start conversations about both future care planning and preventive health screenings. Waiting for a health crisis can limit options and increase stress. Planning early empowers individuals to stay in control, make informed choices, and prioritize quality of life.

Healthy aging is not about adding years to life, it’s about adding life to your years. By embracing active living environments, staying attentive to metabolic health, and prioritizing early detection, older adults can enter the new year with confidence and clarity.

This year, let’s redefine healthy lifestyles as something proactive, informed, and empowering for ourselves and for those we love.

Contributing Experts

Jennifer Thayer, RN, CSA, CDP Senior Living Advisor Assisted Living Locators – Greater Pittsburgh 

Gina Villiotti Madison Executive Director Liver Education Advocates