John Avery Whittaker announced that he will be opening another Whit’s End in Connellsville. The idea came from Mary Hopkins, founder of the Mary’s Story Shop chain, a popular children’s bookstore.

"I heard about Whit’s End, and how much kids loved it, so I decided I should pay a visit," Hopkins explains. "As soon as I saw Whit’s End, I knew it was too good to have just one. And the people of Connellsville will be thrilled."

Hopkins and Whittaker will be opening their businesses together in one building. They haven’t decided on the store’s location, but they are considering the north end of town. "We’re looking very closely at the intersection of Carnegie and Bristol," Hopkins says.

Whittaker is enthusiastic about the expansion. "It was an answer to prayer for me. I was hoping for a way to reach more kids, and this seems to be a great way to do it."