Kids Create a Film About Anxiety, Restaurants Close, and a New Fred Rogers Stamp

Students from nine school districts in Western Pennsylvania teamed up with Wonder Media and the Grable Foundation to make an animated movie called “Finding Alice in Wonderland. ” The film talks about worry, sticking with yourself, and telling the truth to others. It lets kids own the story and sparks chats about how we feel when life changes or feels hard, even for grown‑ups. In a time when people worry about robots taking over jobs and short attention spans, this project reminds everyone that real creativity, teamwork, and caring for each other matter more. The finished movie shows that when adults let young people lead, the results can be deep and thoughtful.Meanwhile, many food places in the area are shutting down. Pittsburgh lost a cocktail bar called Goodlander, a downtown restaurant named McCormick & Schmick’s, and a taco spot in Oakland. The Abbey on Butler Street is fighting bankruptcy, Voodoo Brewing Co. says it has serious money problems, and a long‑running café called Hemingway’s closed after 40 years. Some of these spots are drowning in debt, some see customers buying less or paying more, and others simply can’t keep up with costs. The pattern is clear: the restaurant world feels a lot of pressure right now. Restaurants and bars are more than places to eat; they’re community hubs, traditions, and local landmarks. The region’s food scene has survived tough times before by being inventive and determined. But the growing list of closures shows that even favorite spots can be at risk. On a lighter note, the U. S. Postal Service is sending out a new stamp featuring Fred Rogers after it won a public contest. The famous host from Latrobe is remembered not just for his TV show but as a teacher and friend who helped kids feel safe. The stamp is a small reminder that his gentle lessons still touch people today.