×

Community news from around the area

Fort Pitt Museum to close for updates

PITTSBURGH — The Fort Pitt Museum, part of the Sen. John Heinz History Center family of museums, will temporarily close beginning Wednesday for exhibition maintenance and updates. The museum will re-open to the public Feb. 1.

During the temporary museum closure, curators will update exhibition lighting, perform routine maintenance and clean the museum’s diorama that depicts 18th-century Pittsburgh in miniature.

Prior to the closure, visitors can take an in-depth exploration of the history and culture of American Indian tribes who once called Western Pennsylvania home inside the Fort Pitt Museum’s new exhibition, “Homelands: Native Nations of Allegheny.”

Created in collaboration with federally-recognized Delaware, Seneca, Seneca-Cayuga and Shawnee tribes, “Homelands: Native Nations of Allegheny” illuminates the past, present and future of the region’s Native tribes, with rare artifacts and new scholarship.

Children will receive free admission to the Fort Pitt Museum through Tuesday, through the support of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, officials said.

For information, visit heinzhistorycenter.org/fort-pitt.

Community Foundation reports

WHEELING — As the Ohio Valley prepares to turn the page to 2025, its hope is for continued health, happiness and progress for all, according to Susie Nelson, executive director of the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley.

Nelson thanked those throughout the area for their “unwavering support” and “for being part of our shared mission to make a lasting difference.”

“Together, we will continue to build stronger, more resilient communities in the new year and beyond,” she said.

Nelson noted this year’s annual report has been completed and “goes beyond the numbers, capturing the inspiring stories of donors and grantees who have made a lasting impact on our region.”

“Their stories reflect the heart of our mission and remind us of the incredible power of community,” Nelson continued. “We invite you to explore the stories and celebrate the collective achievements that have shaped the past year.”

She stated in looking ahead to the new year, the future holds exciting opportunities for growth and impact within the community.

“The Community Impact Fund is progressing, with funding decisions expected in February,” she explained. “The Belmont County Enrichment Fund and Expand Energy STEM grants will open Jan. 6, supporting community projects and STEM education. The Women’s Giving Circle grant cycle has closed, with funding announcements coming in February.”

The Belmont County Enrichment Fund is a grant cycle offering funding for projects that enrich and improve the quality of life for residents in Belmont County.

“The fund will not fund fundraising events, scholarships, animal welfare or projects that have already been completed,” she noted.

“The Expand Energy STEM grant cycle provides support for kindergarten through 12th grade public school educators in Brooke, Ohio, Marshall and Wetzel counties for projects that incorporate STEM concepts into the classrooms,” she said. “Maximum awards will be $1,000. Innovative and creative project proposals are encouraged.”

The Community Impact Fund will make an announcement in February, she explained, along with the Women’s Giving Circle.

“As we come to the close of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the generosity, collaboration and hope that has carried us through 2024,” Nelson said. “Whether you are celebrating a festive holiday season or enjoying a quiet time of reflection, we hope this season brings you warmth, connection and moments of gratitude. Now is the perfect time to make a meaningful contribution that will benefit our communities for years to come. Your year-end gift to the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley helps support vital programs, projects and initiatives that improve lives across the region.”

Donations can be made online, by mail or in-person.

“Whether large or small, every gift makes a difference and helps us continue our mission of building stronger communities together,” she said.

Toronto Senior Citizens meet

TORONTO — The Toronto Senior Citizens group held its annual Christmas party Dec. 13 at the Karaffa Recreation Center.

More than 80 members and guests were present for the event.

A dinner consisting of roast beef, a baked potato bar, salad, honey-glazed carrots and assortment of pies was provided by caterer Connie’s Corners of Chester.

The evening’s entertainment was Jason Christopher, a magician from the Pittsburgh area. Within his act, Christopher incorporated a lot of audience participation. Officials exclaimed everyone in attendance enjoyed the performance.

A drawing was held to receive Christmas gifts that were donated by Bonnie Ewing, Mabel Strovilas, Jeanne Barker, Patti Smith and Arlene Obertance.

The seniors embarked on a bus trip to the Lincoln Park Performing Arts High School in Midland, Pa., on Dec. 15. Participants had the opportunity to see a performance of “The Nutcracker.”

Following the show, members stopped at Hogue’s restaurant in Calcutta.

Upcoming trips that have been announced include a visit to Lancaster to the performance, “Noah” May 5-9.

Those interested in attending a Neil Diamond show at the Ohio Star Theater is also on the agenda for next year, officials stated.

The next meeting of the group will take place March 20.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $2.99/week.

Subscribe Today