Posted 10/24/2025
Family Association Fall Mtg
Members of the Merakey AVS Western PA Family Association gathered in October for their annual fall meeting. More than 50 members attended and received updates from Family Association Officers, Merakey President and Chief Operating Officer Ted Dallas, Merakey AVS Administrators, Program Directors, and the Development Department.
To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The Terrible Towel®, attendees proudly dressed in black and gold. Elizabeth Cope, daughter of the towel’s creator Myron Cope, and Family Association Treasurer Diane Barna shared heartfelt stories about the towel’s legacy and how Merakey AVS became the beneficiary. We look forward to seeing everyone again at our next in-person meeting in Spring 2026.
Carl Gets Out and About
Carl had an amazing night at Bullseye Brewing in New Brighton, PA. He and staff member DaShae hit up open mic night, where Carl wowed the crowd playing a song on a guitar that he custom made himself. He was super excited and had a blast, and the audience loved it! Carl’s already planning to finish his next guitar and bring it to open mic in November.
Carl also started horseback riding at 586 Ranch in Clinton, PA. He loved grooming his horse, saddling-up, riding in the ring, and going on a trail ride. He couldn’t stop smiling and sharing his horseback adventure with everyone the next day.
Merakey Sponsors Disability Event
Merakey was honored to serve as a Pathfinder Sponsor at the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Western PA Disability History and Action Consortium’s Beyond History: Framing the Past, Shaping the Future event, held on October 22. The celebration paid tribute to the legacy of disability advocacy, highlighted the voices of present-day champions, and envisioned a future rooted in inclusion and equity.
A powerful keynote and documentary screening were presented by Ann Talman, a Pittsburgh native, acclaimed Hollywood actress, and creator of Woody’s Order. Ann shared a deeply personal and moving account of her brother Woody, offering a heartfelt glimpse into their family’s journey and the broader impact of disability rights.
Merakey extends sincere thanks to self-advocate Elizabeth (Liz) Humphrey and team members Rhonda Thomson, Leslie Hill, and Amy Rocini for attending and representing the organization. Liz was warmly recognized by many attendees, who were delighted to reconnect with her.
Autumnfest
Liz, Janna, and Tess from Oakhaven home had a fantastic time at Autumnfest at the Woodlands. They picked out and decorated pumpkins, got their faces painted, and posed for some spook-tacular pictures. It was a fun fall day.
Yoga in the Park
Wendy and Susan enjoyed an afternoon soaking up the fresh fall air and staying active with a relaxing yoga session in the park. What a perfect way to enjoy the season and stay fit.
Starry Nights Formal
A group from Merakey AVS Hummelstown Campus had the pleasure of attending the Starry Nights Formal at Christian Life Assembly in Camp Hill, PA. The night kicked off with a glamorous red-carpet walk, followed by a delicious dinner. Everyone had an amazing time enjoying karaoke, games, and line dancing.
Picking out Pumkins
A small group from Slippery Rock Program Center went on a community participation trip to Molnar Farms in Poland, Ohio. The individuals had a great time choosing pumpkins for their area to carve. They also chose smaller white pumpkins to paint and decorate. Each member of the group chose something to enjoy with their lunch. Clark M. chose fresh pressed apple cider, Freddie M. chose apple cookies, and Jenna chose apple chips. They loved exploring the farm and shopping.
