Lisa Story, a licensed counselor, found healing in nature after her father's death, leading her to create Hope Grows, a respite space for caregivers and the grieving. Featuring eight therapeutic gardens, the organization now offers grief support, mental health counseling, and programs enhancing caregiver wellness, including retreats and community initiatives like Grief Soup.
Columnist Tara Yilmaz writes that the holiday season often leads to overspending due to emotional triggers, advertising pressures and societal expectations. People mistake generosity for spending, resulting in debt that can linger long after the festivities. True holiday joy lies in connections, not monetary exchanges.
Kimberly Dominguez, a senior at Slippery Rock University, is showcasing her art at the Martha Gault Art Gallery as she prepares for graduation. Aspiring to be an art teacher, she emphasizes the therapeutic nature of art and values effort over quality in student projects.
Columnist Janet Gonter notes that in the 1945 Robinson High School yearbook foreword, students reflected on a war-touched world. Five seniors joined the Navy instead of graduating. Their commitment underscores youth's maturity amid turmoil, ultimately hoping to learn from past conflicts and shape a better future.
The Crafton Heritage group is hosting a book launch for Harry A. Meredith’s "Reminiscences of 80 Years" on Friday, Dec. 5, featuring refreshments and home history tours, with proceeds supporting community programs.
The author reflects on a lifelong connection to newspapers, tracing their journey from a young reader of comics to a sports journalist, eventually leading to a role in reviving the West Hills Gazette as an online news source.
"76 Days Adrift" recounts Steven Callahan's extraordinary survival after his boat sank due to a whale strike. Documenting his 76 days at sea, the film highlights his resourcefulness and resilience, exploring profound themes of survival and human connection, earning significant critical acclaim.