Posted 10/23/2026
Sandusky Trip
Billy from Sunset, Tess from Oakhaven and Genny, Cheyan and Tess from Nolte took a fun-filled road trip to Sandusky, Ohio! They explored an animal safari, enjoyed the thrills of Cedar Point, splashed around at the waterpark and made unforgettable memories along the way. They also stayed at a beautiful Airbnb along the water and enjoyed dining out at several local restaurants, making their getaway even more special.
The Terrible Towel 30th Anniversary
On October 13, legendary sportswriter, broadcaster and creator of The Terrible Towel, Myron Cope, was inducted into the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame! His children, Elizabeth and Danny, were on hand to unveil his star, located in Pittsburgh’s Strip District Terminal.
During the ceremony, Elizabeth reflected on her father’s incredible legacy, his deep love for Pittsburgh and his generous gift of The Terrible Towel trademark to Merakey Allegheny Valley School, which continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we support.
Several members of the Merakey AVS community attended the ceremony, proudly waving their Terrible Towels as Myron’s name was announced. What a special way to honor a man whose generosity continues to impact so many!
Since 1996, Merakey AVS has received over $10 million from officially licensed The Terrible Towel products. The funds are used to cover costs such as equipment, program development and renovations for our facilities. The Terrible Towel directly helps to improve the quality of life for the people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are supported by Merakey AVS.
Leading up to the induction, Elizabeth appeared on WTAE to share the story behind The Terrible Towel and how it benefits Merakey AVS.
Watch the feature: Myron Cope's daughter shares origin of Terrible Towel.
Myron was one of 10 individuals inducted into the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame this year. To watch the full ceremony, visit: Pittsburgh Walk of Fame: 2026 Induction full ceremony.
Pink Day at Zapp and Kennedy
The Kennedy and Edward J. Zapp Program Centers went pink for October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Everyone showed their support in pink shirts, hats, socks and more while enjoying sweet treats and fun crafts. Together, they’re working to spread hope, strength and awareness.
Classroom 5 Farm Trip
Classroom 5 from the Pittsburgh Campus’s Stucco House took a fun-filled trip to Hozak Farms where they enjoyed a delicious lunch, games, laughs, pumpkin picking and feeding the farm’s goats!
Fall Sensory Garden Revamp
Individuals from the Pittsburgh Campus greenhouse program enjoyed decorating the sensory garden for fall with colorful flowers, corn stalks, painted pumpkins and straw bales. We’ve got some real artists on our hands! Just look at all the thought and care that went into this festive revamp.
Edward J Zapp Halloween Tees
Folks at the Edward J. Zapp Center got creative with puffy paint making awesome Halloween T-shirts to show off their spooky spirit leading up to Halloween. Can we commission you to make some for the rest of us?
Nolte Fall Activities
BOO to YOU! The ladies from Nolte had a blast celebrating the bounty of the fall season with adventures at Soergel Orchards, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium's ZooBoo and Kennywood's Fright Nights.
Ewings Mill Fun
Baylee, Kelly, Linda, Anna and Olive from Ewings Mill I have been busy having lots and lots of fun! They visited Spirit Halloween to check out the spooktacular decorations and seek out the perfect costumes for the upcoming holiday. They also enjoyed a bowling outing and celebrated Kelly’s birthday with a fabulous pizza party.
Slippery Rock Pittsburgh Penguins
Slippery Rock Program Instructor Bob Graziani took his area to watch the Pittsburgh Penguins practice at The Lemieux Sports Complex. The individuals were excited to see some of their favorite team members skate past them and see all the Penguins' memorabilia on display in the complex. Let’s go Pens!
