GIVING BACK
Fort Couch Reach Out exceeds $36,000
Fort Couch Middle School students raised $36,499.54 through the school’s annual Reach Out campaign that spanned Dec. 2 through 20. The total was announced during a schoolwide assembly before the holiday break.
The Fort Couch Student Council and its sponsors, Rebecca Maley and Alexandra Neely led the effort, with support from the school’s administration, teachers and PTSO.
All six teams of seventh- and eighth-graders raced to collect the most donations. For the first time, two teams tied for the highest contributions.
For the last 30 years, Fort Couch Middle School students have supported local and international causes through the school’s annual Reach Out campaign.
“Reach Out is a longstanding Fort Couch tradition dating back to 1994 to encourage students to give back during the holiday season,” Principal Erin Stehle said.
In 1994, the students raised $600 to donate to the Upper St. Clair Police Department to give gift cards for families. Since then, the campaign has grown to over $20,000 annually.
Throughout the month of December, students collect donations by reaching out to friends, family, and
“WHETHER IT WAS WALKING DOOR-TO-DOOR IN THE SNOW, SELLING HOT CHOCOLATE IN NEIGHBORHOODS WITH FRIENDS, OR MAKING INTRICATE GOODIES FOR SALE, OUR STUDENTS UNDERSTOOD THE MISSION OF SERVICE.”
ALEXANDRA NEELY, SPONSOR OF FORT COUCH STUDENT COUNCIL
neighbors and by offering their services to the community.
“Our seventh- and eighth-graders have done countless endeavors in order to fundraise on behalf of these organizations,” Neely said.
“Whether it was walking door-todoor in the snow, selling hot chocolate in neighborhoods with friends, or making intricate goodies for sale, our students understood the mission of service.”
The students committed to raising funds on behalf of four causes – Sam Strong, Bike MS, Yahve-Jire Children’s Foundation, and Giant Eagle Gift Cards with the Upper St. Clair Township Police Department.
“They recognized that their determination and efforts were imperative in order to ensure that these organizations received their needed donations,” Neely said. “We are beyond proud of their selflessness during this time of year.”
The money raised was divided among the following organizations: Primary Cause for 2024:
Sam Strong
The Sam Strong GoFundMe benefits Sam Levine and the Levine family in the battle against DIPG, an invasive childhood cancer that forms in the brain stem. It is extremely rare, inoperable, and difficult to treat. Funds raised will support the family as Sam participates in clinical trials and treatments.
Bike MS
Bike MS is a series of fundraising events for Multiple Sclerosis research that involves thousands of people cycling hundreds of miles around the country. The local Fort Couch team trains year-round to cycle over 150 miles from north of Pittsburgh to Lake Erie in two days for Bike MS. Money is used locally to help people with MS with practical needs such
Symbol of generosity
Salvation Army volunteers find rare gold coin in red bucket
By Karen Mansfield Staff writer
kmansfield@observer-reporter.com
It’s a familiar sight and sound during the Christmas season –volunteers ringing bells as passersby drop bills and coins into red kettles as part of the Salvation Army’s annual campaign.
But on Christmas Eve, a surprise was left in a donation bucket at Giant Eagle in Washington: An anonymous donor dropped a rare gold coin into the kettle.
The coin, a Queen Elizabeth II coin valued at more than
$2,700, was wrapped in a $1 bill with a note tucked inside.
“I was dumbfounded,” said Lt. Tom Perez of the Salvation Army in Washington. “My wife and I weren’t going to count the buckets that night; we thought we’d come in Friday and count, but I said, ‘Let’s do it, let’s get a couple volunteers and get it done.’”
Perez pulled out a dollar bill with tape around it. Inside were the coin and a note.
“Initially, I thought it was a fake coin,” said Perez. It was not.
Perez had the coin appraised, and it turned out to be the real deal.
This year marks the fourth consecutive year a mystery donor has placed a rare coin in a red kettle.
Perez doesn’t know who dropped the coin inside the
bucket, but he said that the money from the coin is a huge help for the organization’s fundraising efforts this year.
The Washington Salvation Army exceeded its $60,000 goal, raising more than $71,750, not counting online donations.
In recent years, secret Santas have been leaving rare gold coins in kettles across the country.
Perez is grateful for the anonymous donor’s generosity.
“It was a remarkable gesture that not only symbolizes generosity, but also played a part in helping us exceed our fundraising goal for the year,” said Perez. “There is such a severe need in this community, and all of the donations, including the coin, enable us to be a blessing to people here.”
as wheelchairs, medicine, and living adaptations. Funds also support research.
Yahve-Jire
Children’s Foundation
The Yahve-Jire Children’s Foundation began when a group from Pittsburgh sent money to Haiti to fund relief efforts after the Haitian earthquake in 2010. The YJCF now runs an orphanage and school in Haiti where children are some of the poorest in the world.
Giant Eagle Gift Cards with Upper St. Clair Township Police Department
Each year, Fort Couch donates $5,000 in Giant Eagle gift cards to the township police department. Officers hand-deliver these gift cards to families in the Upper St. Clair community who would benefit from extra help during the holiday season.
Death likely a ‘tragic accident’
Woman dies after struck by vehicle while crossing Route 19 in Peters Township
By Mike Jones
Staff writer
mjones@observer-reporter.com
A pedestrian died Christmas night after she was struck by a vehicle while trying to cross Route 19 in Peters Township.
Peters Township police said the 79-year-old woman was crossing the road with her daughter shortly after 7:30 p.m. when she was struck by a northbound vehicle in the 2800 block of Washington Road near Pizzaz Italian Restaurant and Simmons Farm Market. The mother suffered major injuries, while her 43-yearold daughter was not struck by the vehicle, police said. Peters Township medics and firefighters attempted to resuscitate the woman, and she was eventually taken by ambulance to St. Clair Hospital in Mt. Lebanon, where she died of her injuries, police said.
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s office contacted Washington County authorities to notify investigators the woman had died, but they have not publicly identified her as of Jan. 30. Police also did not identify the woman.
The motorist who struck the woman pulled into a nearby gas station and waited for police officers to arrive. Police did not identify the driver, but said the 73-year-old man was not impaired, and officers eventually released him from the scene.
The occupants of another vehicle witnessed the crash and attempted to help the woman before first responders arrived.
Peters Township police are continuing to investigate the crash.
“The preliminary investigation appears to show that this is a tragic accident and at this time, no fault has been determined,” police wrote in a news release.
COURTESY OF SALVATION ARMY
An anonymous donor dropped a rare coin valued at more than $2,700 into a Salvation Army red kettle at Washington Giant
USC student ventures to Pakistan for robotics outreach
By Brad Hundt Staff writer bhundt@observer-reporter.com
One of the things that stood out about Karachi, Pakistan, was the heat, according to Upper St. Clair High School senior Komel Nulwala.
When he ventured there in July it never got below a scorching 95 degrees – even at night.
“It’s a very big city, and along with everything Pakistan is going through right now, it’s very big and very crowded and very hot.”
Both of Nulwala’s parents are from Pakistan, and he ventured
there to meet some members of his extended family for the first time. But he was also there to represent Upper St. High School’s robotics team at a school in Karachi and demonstrate the workings of robotics to students whose exposure to it is limited or nonexistent.
“For the students at the school, it was the first time they had ever heard what a robot was, and the first time they had ever worked with a robot,” Nulwala explained. The demonstration was at the Hakimi School, which is a Montessori-style institution. About 15 students in grades three through five
South Fayette appoints three
The South Fayette Township School District made several administrative appointments in response to retirements.
Ryan Neely was named Director of Finance; Michael Radage, Director of Human Resources, and Nicolle Bazant Pleil, Director of Food Services.
“We have been fortunate to have very talented and capable leaders in our Food Service position and our Human Resources and Finance, which was a combined role, for long periods of time,” said Dr. Michelle Miller, superintendent.
“Our new hires are stepping into well-established roles and have been able to transition with their predecessors. We also recognize that we can benefit from their fresh perspective and innovative ideas, and are excited about the expertise and dedication that they are clearly bringing to the district.” Neely and Pleil began their roles over the summer, and
Radage joined the district on Sept. 16.
Neely has been working in business management for public education since 2009, most recently in a shared services agreement as business manager of both A.W. Beattie Career Center and Lenape Technical School.
While Radage began working in human resources in 2003, he entered the field of education in 2006, spending 13 years in talent acquisition with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. He has most recently been the Director of Talent Acquisition with Propel Schools since 2019.
Hired as Director of Food Service, Pleil has been serving in the same capacity with the Trinity Area School District for the past 11 years. In addition to working in education, her professional experience includes hospitals, long-term care centers, and writing about healthy eating and wellness habits.
participated in a robotics petting zoo through hummingbird kits. Upper St. Clair’s robotics team, which goes by the name BotsBurgh 11792 – donated five of the kits to the school so the students there can continue to learn about robotics.
According to Medha Misra, an Upper St. Clair High School senior and the outreach coordinator for the robotics team, “We sought to bridge the gap and provide access to robotics and technology, knowing that many children and adults in the region have limited exposure to such innovative experiences in their dayto-day lives.”
Aside from Nulwala and Misra, other members of the robotics team are seniors Cadence Forney, Bryan Deep, Ben Ross and Liam Moriarty, junior Zahra Hossain and sophomores Siddharth Kumar, Harish Rajaganapathy and Josh Mukherjee. Forney said that although all the students could not be there, “all helped
to support the outreach experience.” Along with outreach events at local libraries, the robotics team is working with the South Hills Interfaith Movement to host a robotics petting zoo program and hopes to hold other events in the Pittsburgh area. Information is available by sending an email message to botsburgh11792@gmail.com.
USC enhancing leadership skills
Thanks to the Leadership Academy, Upper St. Clair High School students are enhancing their skills. The program offers four sequential phases that can be completed over the course of a student’s high school experience.
As incoming freshmen, USC students have the opportunity to participate in Phase I and can progress through to Phase IV as rising seniors. New this year, Phase III was offered as a College in High School course that offers college credit through a partnership with the University of Pittsburgh.
Dr. Dan Beck, assistant principal, provides oversight for the program.
“By integrating interactive activities, real-world insights, and advanced theories from collegiate-level courses, the program ensures that students not only learn about leadership but also apply these principles effectively in real-world scenarios,” Beck said. “This comprehensive approach emphasizes practical application alongside theoretical learning, fostering meaningful development in leadership capabilities.”
Chad Ebrecht, Ben Edwards, Laura Carlino, Chris Watkinson, Jake Reis, Nikki Coellea, Miranda Jasper, Erika Valentine and Dr. Steve Torquato led students in this year’s Leadership Academy, held during the summer months.
In Phase I, students engaged in interactive activities, self-reflection and practical leadership scenarios, embodying the program’s principle - Who you are is how you lead.
“Phase I proved to be a success,” Beck said. “Throughout the week, students developed S.M.A.R.T. goals that aligned with their personal visions and honed their teamwork and communication skills at the Camp Guyasuta Ropes Course. Moreover, they deepened their understanding of 10 core values, which are essential for thriving in any leadership role.”
In Phase II, students began by exploring servant, visionary, and relational leadership styles.
“It was a week dedicated to learning and applying leadership skills,” Beck said. “We invited speakers from the State Police and other local leaders to discuss
practical leadership skills and address challenging topics, such as how to respectfully disagree.”
Through field trips to The Education Partnership, Breakout Escape Rooms and North Park, students had the opportunity to practice the leadership skills discussed in class. As a culminating activity, Phase II students partnered with the Upper St. Clair Township Library and Gilfillan Farms to host its second community fair.
“Each pair of students was tasked with creating, planning, and running an activity for children,” Beck said. “The event was a success, drawing support from more than 100 community members.”
Phases I and II were week-long experiences. Phase III - Theories of Leadership College in High School (CHS) course spanned six weeks. Designed by Upper St. Clair faculty members in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh, Phase III acquainted students with the multiple theories and practices associated with effective leadership.
“Addressing the question ‘What is leadership?,’ students explored topics such as
historical and modern definitions of leadership, ethics and various leadership theories,” Beck said. “The goal was for students to apply their lessons in this engaging and educational six-week course.”
Established in 2010, the Upper St. Clair’s Leadership Academy was nationally recognized with a Magna Award from the National School Boards Association’s magazine, American School Board Journal, in 2013.
“The Leadership Academy represents a dynamic and progressive approach to leadership education, adapting and expanding to meet the evolving needs of its students,” Beck said. “Through a balanced blend of practical exercises, exposure to real-life leadership challenges, and theoretical insights from advanced studies, the academy equips students to apply their knowledge effectively beyond the classroom. This holistic educational model not only cultivates deep understanding but also prepares students to execute leadership roles with competence and confidence, truly embodying the principles they have learned.”
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF UPPER ST. CLAIR HIGH SCHOOL
Hummingbird kits were used to teach students in Karachi, Pakistan, about robotics.
Students at the Hakimi School in Karachi, Pakistan, learned about robotics this summer thanks to an outreach program from Upper St. Clair High School.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Upper St. Clair High School students participate in an activity to develop their leadership skills.
Ryan Neely Michael Radage Nicole Pleil
a semester-long partnership with Quantum Theatre. The program brings outside, real-world experiences to
USC students get real-world theater experience
The Theater Arts/Acting course at Upper St. Clair High School completed a semester-long partnership with Quantum Theatre that brings outside, real-world experiences to the school’s theater program.
The acting course, open to students in grades 9-12, is
co-taught by Laura Surguine and Dr. Steve Torquato. It covers various aspects of the performing arts, including monologues, scenes, voice and speech, improvisation, movement, character development, and audition preparation.
As part of Quantum Theatre’s high school residency project, a teaching artist provides weekly coaching and instruction to help students interpret a classic play, a piece of literature, or an historical event in their own, contemporary terms. Catherine Baird,
Quantum Theatre’s teaching artist, has worked in the classroom with Upper St. Clair students since October.
“They worked on taking the script of ‘The Cabinet of Caligari’ and re-writing it to create their own drama piece,” Surguine said.
USC pair shine at CalcuSolve
Two Upper St. Clair High School seniors earned top honors at the annual CalcuSolve competition held recently.
Yuhong Shi achieved first place, while Eitan Schwartz claimed third among nearly 200 participants.
CalcuSolve is a math contest in which students compete individually and as part of four-member teams. Participants tackle nine math problems –seven individual and two team challenges – earning points for correct answers within a set time limit.
Casey Teagarden, a gifted education teacher, coached the students.
Eight students from Upper St. Clair High School participated in the event, which was sponsored by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit and held virtually.
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Other schools participating in Quantum’s high school residency project include Pittsburgh’s Westinghouse Academy and Brashear High School.
“The students not only worked with a professional actor to recreate the play, but
they also got to perform their interpretation for the other participating schools at Alumni Theatre,” Surguine said. As a culminating event, students had the opportunity to experience Quantum Theatre’s production of “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari.”
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Several students from Upper St. Clair High School participated in
school’s theater programs.
Yuhong Shi
Eitan Schwartz
Upper St. Clair advances to state robotics finals
The Upper St. Clair High School FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics team, TeraBridges (18603), earned the Inspire Award at the Greyhound Sprint Qualifier held recently at York Country Day School.
Not only is it USC’s first Inspire Award, it is also the first time the squad has qualified for the state tournament. The Pennsylvania FTC State Championships will be held in March.
Team members included: Abdulla Al-Dosari, Jai Daniel, Ishaan Sharma, Harsh Mali, Sidharth Nambiar, William Whitman, Josh Beitler, Matt Beitler, Rohan Inampudi, Ava Liu, Sam An, Felix Chen, Aaron Jiang and Ashwin Vasudevan.
Rich and Sarah Beitler coach the squad.
TeraBridges competed in five matches and was select-
“THE
INSPIRE AWARD IS THE HIGHEST HONOR AT ANY FTC COMPETITION. IT RECOGNIZES A TEAM THAT DEMONSTRATES EXCELLENCE IN ALL ASPECTS OF THE PROGRAM.”
SARAH BEITLER, COACH
ed as a fourth-place alliance partner.
“Despite facing some challenges with their robot’s performance throughout the competition, the team’s outstanding commitment to the values of FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and its engagement in STEM outreach ultimately led them to earn the Inspire Award,” Beitler said.
“The Inspire Award is the highest honor at any FTC
competition,” she added.
“It recognizes a team that demonstrates excellence in all aspects of the program.”
In addition to performing at a high level throughout the competition, Inspire Award teams must exhibit gracious professionalism, teamwork and inclusion, and outreach activities that promote STEM and community engagement. Visit www.ftc18603.org to learn more about TeraBridges.
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Upper St. Clair High School students work together during the robotics competition.
A meeting of military minds
Caleb Palmer of Upper St. Clair met with Maj. Gen. Glenn Dean and Col. Ryan A. Howell, a metallurgy expert, at the Army’s design and R&D facility in Detroit and discussed how evolving battlefield dynamics, namely drones, are requiring rapid changes in tank designs.The 7-year-old son of David and Hwan Palmer prepared his portfolio in advance and discussed various ideas with the officers. It was the second time that Palmer was invited to share his design ideas with military brass.
GLORY DAYS
Upper St. Clair celebrating 60 years of wrestling
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net
The holidays were for reminiscing but at Upper St. Clair they will be recalling the glory days throughout 2025 as the Panthers continue to celebrate 60 years of wrestling.
The first season started during the 1964-65 school year under head coach Ed Rusciolelli.
In 60 years, the Panthers have produced 13 different state qualifiers. Eight of them captured medals.
Grapplers such as Tom Pappas, Mike Dinardo, Joe Solomon, Austin Wilding, Eli Grape, Jake Slinger, Tom Bogan and Mack McGuire have cemented their names among PIAA place winners. Bogan and McGuire were state champions.
“Some great years,” McGuire said. “Hopefully this program continues to have some more and keeps getting better and better.”
McGuire has a vested interest in USC’s progress. He and Grape are serving as coaches within the organization. McGuire with the youth program and Grape at the junior high level.
“There’s a lot of energy here and a lot of support,” McGuire said. “A lot of great things are being put forth with coaches like Chris Tarr and the wrestlers are putting forth a great effort. You can see it. We have good kids coming through the system and it’s awesome.”
Grape agreed. He and McGuire were among those alumni recognized before a December dual match against West Mifflin.
“It’s great to be back and to be helping give back to a
program that has been good to me.”
Grape, like McGuire, is one of 12 USC graduates that are members of the school’s Century Club. Each recorded 132 career victories to rank second behind Jake Slinger, who leads the list with 138 triumphs.
The other Century Club members include: Bogan (114), Zach Hawk (105), Russell Kropp, Mike McGuire (101), Tom Kyle (104), Garrett Walnoha (101) and the Wilding brothers: Austin (114), Corey (113) and Brooks (103).
Grape was a two-time PIAA medalist, placing seventh and eighth in 2017 and 2016. He was a two-time WPIAL runner-up and a three-time sectional champion.
wrestled at Lehigh University while earning an undergraduate degree in supply chain management and a masters in entrepreneurship. Currently, he works as a financial advisor for New York Life.
“It’s awesome because I am in the office three days a week and home two days so I am able to coach five days a week,” he said.
While he knows his work situation is temporary because he may have to leave the area if he receives a promotion, Grape is content to stay in the area.
“I’d love to settle down here because I do like it a lot,” he said.
Six named All-State in football
By Eleanor Bailey
Sports Editor
Almanac
ebailey@thealmanac.net
Six standout football players from the South Hills area garnered All-State accolades from the Pennsylvania Football Writers Association. All gained recognition on the Class 5A all-state football team.
Peters Township led the list with three honorees while two Bethel Park players earned the distinction. Upper St. Clair added a single entry.
Nolan DiLucia and Mickey Vaccarello from Peters Township as well as Clancy Orie from Bethel Park were repeat performers.
DiLucia quarterbacked the Indians to the WPIAL finals for the second straight season by passing for 2,525 yards and rushing for 506 more. He tossed 25 TD aerials and rushed for five scores.
In his career, DiLucia has passed for 6,040 career yards, including 3,131 his sophomore year when he led Peters Township to a district championship, a PIAA runner-up banner and a 15-1 record.
The 6-2, 200-pound junior, who maintains a 4.2 GPA, also started in the defensive secondary for the Indians. He had one interception and four pass breakups.
Grape
One of the first wrestling teams at Upper St. Clair High School. Young wrestlers listen to instructions from their head coach. The Panthers are celebrating 60 years of wrestling this season.
Upper St. Clair wrestling coach Chris Tarr watches the action on the mat during a recent dual match in which the Panthers celebrated 60 years of wrestling.
Spencer Hills appears in control of his 107-pound bout against Matt Kolas but the tables turned and Kolas scored a fall for West Mifflin as the Titans handed Upper St. Clair its first loss of the season, 38-33.
Javaughn Moore (6) escapes the grasp of defenders and picks up big yardage in a conference clash earlier this season against Peters Township. Moore rushed for over 2,000 this past fall on his way to earning All-State honors.
PHOTOS: ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Reston Lehman (14) is congratulated by teammates Nolan DiLucia (17) and Mickey Vaccarello (10) after his interception sealed Peters Township’s victory over Bethel Park in Allegheny Six Conference action. All three Indians gained All-State acclaim, DiLucia and Vaccarello for the second time in their careers.
junior, Lehman is a four-star recruit.
Austin Sullivan decisioned Anthony Demino, 9-7, in the 139-pound bout but Upper St. Clair lost to West Mifflin, 38-33.
Morandini featured speaker at coaches clinic
Major League Baseball veteran Mickey Morandini will be the featured speaker at the second annual Pennsylvania State Baseball Coaches Association’s clinic to be held Jan. 16-18 at the Nittany Lion Inn in State College. He will deliver remarks at 7:05 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16. Morandini spent 11 years in the big leagues, competing for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays. He played on the Phillies’ 1993 National League championship club and was a MLB all-star in 1995. Since his retirement, he spent four years as the head coach for the Valparaiso High School varsity program from 2007-2010. He has also
served in various roles in the Phillies’ system. Among the clinic’s other guest speakers are: Penn State head coach Mike Gambino, Delaware head coach Greg Mamula, Buckenll head coach Scott Heather, St. Bonaventure’s Jason Rathburn, West Chester’s Mike LaRosa and Seton Hill’s Marc Marizzaldi. Other assistants and pitch-
ing coaches include Doc Neiman from St. Joe/s, Kyle Nicholson from Mercyhurst, Jabin Weaver from Villanova, Brandon Romans and Matt Gilbertson, both from the University of Pittsburgh. The clinic, which is co-sponsored by the Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates, will also feature multiple clinic sessions as well as interactive
and instructive practice sessions for all coaches.
More than 200 high school coaches, statewide, are expected to attend. Visit https://pastatebaseballcoaches.com/psbca-convention for a complete itinerary of the clinic. Contact Brian Jardine, who is the PSBCA president, at bjardine@npsd.org for more details.
Grape added that being a coach lends a different perspective regarding his career on the mats. He now recognizes his long-term contribution to the program.
“Whenever you are 16, 17 years old, the talk of legacy doesn’t mean too much to you but now that I am older and looking back, I know that I was able to lead an impactful program,” he said. “The kids now look up at the banners and see that I was able to do something that maybe they will be able to do too if they put in the work.”
McGuire endured the grind to become a two-time state finalist. He was runner-up as a junior and PIAA champion in 2012. He was a two-time WPIAL champion.
McGuire went on to become a four-time NCAA qualifier at Kent State University. He’s also a member of the school’s Century Club with 109 career victories.
Though McGuire earned a degree in speech pathology and audiology, he has transitioned into business. While working as a graduate assistant coach at Cleveland State, McGuire earned his MBA. He currently works in sales for an appointment rental company while residing in Carnegie.
“While I might get back to (speech), I wanted to make a change. I definitely can see the
fun in business and the enjoyment of all the dynamics of it,” he said.
The joy of business reminds McGuire of his wrestling days at USC. While the victories played a major part in his success, the camaraderie of competing in a sport with his friends trumped those experiences.
“Being a one-time state champion and one-time runner-up was an awesome ac-
complishment but wrestling with a great group of guys, guys that I grew up with and are still friends with today, means more to me. I see it now. As coaches today we preach to (the wrestlers) that they will develop deep friendships and there will be great lessons learned from going through things on the mat. That triumphs over all the other things.”
cited three success stories regarding USC wrestling. He noted that all three Wilding brothers are currently Navy Seals and stationed at Virginia Beach.
“They are representing our country. I and all of USC are proud of them for it.”
When he wrestled for the Panthers, McGuire wore the colors with pride. He had extra incentive as he noted that
many of the singlets he wore were designed by his mother, Caroline.
“We had some really cool singlets,” he said. “Those singlets really helped me gain a lot of strength. We looked great out there,” he added.
“We were great believers in “look good, feel good” and we wrestled well. So I give a lot of credit for my success to those awesome singlets,” added the son of Mike McGuire.
While today’s grapplers are donning simple black singlets with USC emblazoned in white on the left leg, they are breaking with the tradition of being ordinary. The 60th anniversary year is off to a resounding start.
The Panthers are 9-1 overall heading into a key section match, hosting Peters Township at 7 p.m. Jan. 8. The lone loss occurred before the holiday break against West Mifflin, 38-33. In the bout, USC lost four matches by fall and one by tech fall.
“We wrestled well, but West Mifflin wrestled better,” said Tarr. “I give credit to West Mifflin. Their wrestlers made things happen and they were scrappy.” In the loss were lessons.
“Our entire team learned that all points and matches matter. Bonus points were the difference,” Tarr said. “Our wrestlers need to learn and understand that if they are going to lose, they need to only lose by a regular decision. Giving up bonus points at the end of matches will factor into the outcome.”
USC is benefiting from its fast start. Results are evident. And, a group of 33 wrestlers in the room, are affording added practice.
“Our wrestlers are becoming more confident in their abilities and we have healthy competition in the room,” Tarr said. “We have some very close, intense matches. Kids know that they have to perform and wrestle well in order to make the starting lineup.”
Tarr noted that during the holiday break several alumni attended practices. They also talked about their experiences as a USC wrestler. These alumni contributions cement Tarr’s objectives for USC wrestling.
“Since day one under my leadership, we have stressed and promoted a “Program” mindset,” he said. “Our program includes our youngest Little Panther and our oldest alumni. All alumni are always welcome to rejoin the program in any way possible. I want to make sure that all alumni feel that their time and contributions to the USC wrestling program will always be remembered.”
The 2025 club as well as future teams are working on their legacy. Expectations are for the current Panthers to contribute even more to the school’s storied tradition.
“My hope is that our teams continue to grow in numbers, popularity, and in quality,” Tarr said. “It is my goal to make this the greatest era in USC wrestling.”
Football
FROM PAGE B1
A 6-3, 210-pound linebacker, Vaccarello recorded eight sacks and 22 tackles for loss. He added two interceptions and scored two touchdowns on defense. In two seasons, he amassed 21 sacks and 51 tackles for loss.
As a tight end on offense, Vaccarello managed two touchdowns.
Vaccarello, who plays basketball, has committed to Stanford. According to the Cardinal linebacker coach Bobby April, Vaccarello is “technically sound in coverage, taking on blocks and tackling. He has the athletic ability to play well in space and run through tackles.”
A 6-3, 255-pound senior, Orie amassed 75 tackles, eight sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 14 quarterback hurries and forced two fumbles en route to all-conference honors on defense.
Orie, who committed to the U.S. Naval Academy, also excelled at tight end this fall. He had 15 receptions for 245 yards and three touchdowns.
Reston Lehman joined his teammates, DiLucia and Vaccarello, on the All-State squad.
A 6-4, 230-pound junior, he gained recognition on defense. As an outside linebacker, he had four sacks, 11 tackles for loss, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
A two-way starter since his freshman year, Lehman is a four-star recruit. He has visited Maryland and has offers from Pitt, Penn State, Nebraska and Indiana among others.
JaVaughn Moore joined Clancy on the AllState list on offense. As a tailback, the 5-11, 185-pound senior ranked No. 4 in the WPIAL with 2,084 yards rushing on 285 carries and No. 3 in scoring with 196 points.
Moore led the Black Hawks in scoring with 32 touchdowns. He also tacked on four, 2-point conversions for Bethel Park, which finished 10-3 overall.
Nate Stohl completed the list of area athletes gaining All-State acclaim on offense. The 6-3, 270-pound senior led Upper St. Clair to the Allegheny Six Conference championship and
Clancy Orie reacts after recovering a fumble during Allegheny Six Conference action. The Bethel Park senior recently earned All-State accolades for the second year in a row for his play at defensive end. Orie is committed to play football at the U.S. Naval Academy in 2025.
Nate Stohl captured a number of honors this season, including the Bill Fralic Memorial Trophy given to the best linemen in the WPIAL. Stohl was also the Player of the Year in the Allegheny Six Conference and The Almanac MVP for the 2024 scholastic football season. Most recently, he added All-State honors to his collection of awards.
an 11-game winning streak before the Panthers succumbed to Peters Township, 7-3, in the WPIAL semifinals.
As an offensive lineman, he paved the way for the Panthers to roll up 4,727 all-purpose yards, including 3,152 yards rushing. USC managed 393.3 yards per game while racking up 32.8 points per game.
As a defensive end, Stohl led the team with 16 tackles for loss and six sacks. He averaged 4.6 tackles per game.
A Princeton recruit, Stohl was also the Allegheny Six Conference Player of the Year, Almanac MVP and 2024 Bill Fralic Award recipient as the best interior two-way lineman in the WPIAL.
Mickey Morandini
McGuire
PHOTOS: ELEANOR BAILEY/ THE ALMANAC
Upper St. Clair wrestling alumni, including Eli Grape and Mac McQuire (front row) watch the action during a recent match that celebrated 60 years of the sport.
sights & sounds
Sharing good spirits
Maggie’s Farm Rum Distillery brings craft rum and dining to Upper St. Clair
By Jill Thurston Staff writer jthurston@observer-reporter.com
Tim Russell, master distiller and owner of Maggie’s Farm Rum Distillery in Upper St. Clair, was living in Troy Hill in 2008 when he was laid off from his position as a project manager. He saw it as an opportunity. Already a home brewer, he wanted to open a brewery. “At that time there were so many breweries opening up, it was really competitive,” he said. He settled on whiskey. He said it helped that Pennsylvania changed its liquor code. “Around that time Pennsylvania changed the liquor code to actually allow a distillery to operate like a brewery in that it could sell spirits made by the bottle and by the glass directly to the public,” he said.
But, Russell felt people were used to aged whiskey, so he was looking at two years minimum, and there was already another distillery not far from where he planned to open his first location on Smallman Street in the Strip District.
In the end, he chose rum. “So the idea was, I’d make a spirit that can be
consumed unaged, like a rum, while I wait for the whiskey that I make to age. Once I got into rum, learned about it more, met people in the rum community across the country and even here, and I just fell in love with
what’s happening
BP LIBRARY
The Bethel Park library is offering the following programs this month:
■ Winter Reading Carnival from 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 31. All ages eligible. There will be games, face painting, balloon art and popcorn.
■ New Movie Releases.
Every Tuesday at 10:15 a.m.
Additionally there will be a Hollywood VIP Tour at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15; Silent Movies and The Art of Film Preservation at noon on Jan. 18 as well as Adult Movies for the Mind at 10:30 a.m. the first Monday of the Month.
■ Merrymakers Jazz Duo at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 20. The event features a jazz performance with commentary and explanation about tunes and styles.
■ Winter Sowing Workshop from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Jan.
25. Participants learn how to sow native plants and seeds that attract pollinators and butterflies.
Visit bethelpark.librarycalendar.com to register for events. Call 412-835-2207 for more details.
PT SIGN-UPS
rum and I literally never made a drop of whiskey, ever.”
He borrowed from his 401K and with investments from a couple of friends, he opened the original location on Smallman Street. According to Russell, his award-winning rum was the first commercially available Pennsylvania made craft rum since Prohibition.
After nearly 10 years, Russell was looking to expand. His rum, available in 13 states, had garnered more than 100 awards, including American Craft Spirits Association Bestin-Show Spirit and San Francisco World Spirits Competition Best-inShow
To expand his footprint, Russell began looking for another local location. Upper St. Clair was on his radar for purchasing a home for his wife, Layla, and daughter, Alaina, but not necessarily for his next business location.
“It was a two-year search and it was tricky because of what we do. We almost needed industrial zoning. But if you end up in an obscure industrial park somewhere you are not going to have the opportunity to get a lot of retail or restaurant cus-
tomers. So it really narrowed down the search area. Most of the city of Pittsburgh that has industrial zoning is being converted to multi-family residential, so the real estate costs were astronomical for all of these old, rundown buildings,” he said.
Several fell through under contract, and he had basically given up. “I think I was looking at vacant land to build on, and this property popped back on the market. Funny thing about it was, I actually bought a house in Upper St. Clair a month before this building came up.”
Russell purchased the 22,000-square-foot former distribution building for wigs on McLaughlin Run Road in 2022.
After numerous Covid-related delays that left him eight months behind schedule and significantly over budget, he opened the stateof-the-art distillery, full service restaurant and cocktail bar in December 2023.
Maggie’s Farm Rum Distillery is a two-story operation with 10,000 gallons of fermentation capacity and an 800-gallon pot still housed on the first floor. The restaurant has an industrial decor feel with an
occupancy of 100 people. The hours are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Russell said he’s had great support from the local Upper St. Clair community, which has few restaurants in the township. “I feel like it’s 99% residential, and in the township itself I think there’s only about four restaurants. And only two have liquor licenses,” he said.
“It’s really convenient that it’s in an industrial-zoned area, but it’s right in the middle of residential communities,” said Russell. He draws from Upper St. Clair, Bridgeville, and Mt. Lebanon among others and often has out-of-town customers as well. “Being a rum distillery, people do travel to see us,” he said.
So where did the name Maggie’s Farm come from?
“It’s a reference to a Bob Dylan song about how much he hated the music industry. I heard it one day at my old job… and it resonated.”
To learn more about Maggie’s Farm Rum, visit www.Maggiesfarmrum.com.
Alex Burdelski from C.S.
PT REC
The Peters Township recreation center is offering the following activities:
■ Tiny Tots Gym Time from 1 to 3 p.m. the first and third Friday of every month. Ages 5 and under socialize and burn off steam during unstructured playtime. A variety of toys, call and soft play items will be available. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers).
■ Winter Wonderland. This Mad Science event runs from 1 to 4 p.m. Jan. 17. Fee is $42 ($63 nonmembers).
■ Tween Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24. Ages 9 to 12 can socialize, play games, make crafts and enjoy snacks. The event is chaperoned. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers).
■ Chess & Pizza – Ages 5 to 12 learn the game while eating pizza. Classes by Knight School instructors are held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Fridays for eight weeks beginning Jan. 3. Fee is $200 ($300 nonmembers). No experience necessary.
■ Jiu Jitsu – Ages 7 to 12 meet Mondays beginning Jan. 6 from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m.
Ages 13-17 meet from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Fee is $120 ($180 nonmembers). Master
Registration for Peters Township parks and recreation programs for January and February has begun. Visit peterstownship.com to sign up for one-day programs and special events. For more details, call 724-942-5000.
Kim Karate instructs. The grappling-based martial art covers drills, exercises and partner-based training.
■ Karate – Ages 3 to 5 meet from noon to 12:45 p.m. Thursdays beginning Jan. 9 while ages 6 to 12 meet from 6 to 7 p.m. The C.S. Kim Karate School instructs in this martial arts discipline that improves coordination and fitness through high-energy drills and skill work. Fee is $80 ($120 nonmembers). Uniform is $30 and orders will be placed during the first class.
■ Penguin Playtime – Ages 3 to 5, accompanied by an adult, can join in a fun-filled activity inspired by their favorite flightless friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Jan. 10. Registration required. Deadline is Jan. 6.
■ Stuck in a Snowglobe –Ages 6 to 10 will create a one-of-kind snowglobe with themselves pictured inside from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers).
■ Dance Explorations –Ages 3 meet from 6 to 6:40 p.m. Wednesdays beginning Jan. 15 while ages 4 to 6 meet from 6:50 to 7:30 p.m. Fee is $40 for the four classes ($60 nonmembers). The course offers an introduction to dance
and combines ballet, jazz and tumbling to develop self-confidence, musicality and body awareness. Participants should wear leotards, tights and ballet shoes.
Visit www.peterstownship. com or call 724-942-5000 to register or for more details or questions regarding any of the events.
RECYCLING
A Christmas tree recycling program runs until Jan. 12 in Peters Township. Trees can be dropped off in Peterswood Park or placed curbside for regular garbage collection the week of Jan. 6 through 9. All decorations must be removed prior to disposal. Trees disposed of at the park will be converted into pine mulch.
CHABAD
A Day in the Heights for Women trip will be held Tuesday, Feb. 4. Departure is at 8 a.m. from Pittsburgh airport and return from JFK Airport at 8 p.m. The inspiring trip to the Rebbe’s Ohel and Crown Heights will include: pray at the Ohel, a visit to Chabad’s headquarters, exploration of Crown Heights, a visit to a Chassidic art gallery and Judaica shops, lunch and dinner. Cost is $125 plus airfare and dinner.
Register at chabadsh.com/ heights. Email batya@ chabadsh.com for more information.
COIN CLUB
The South Hills Coin Club will meet at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 14 at the Bethel Park Municipal Building, located at 5100 West Library Ave. The program is the annual showand-tell event. A 50/50 raffle will be held and children’s prizes will be awarded. The general public can attend. Applications are available for membership. Call 724-9846611 for details.
The club will also celebrate its 65th anniversary from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel & Suites Pittsburgh South, located at 164 Fort Couch Road. More than 40 dealers will be present. Parking and admission are free. Call 724-984-6611 for details.
NURSES CLUB
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Registered Nurses Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 21 at Salvatore’s, located at 5001 Curry Road. Lynne Ireland-Knight, CEOLS, will speak. Her topic is “End of Life Doula.” All registered nurses can attend.
Visit www.swparnclub.weebly.com for more details.
Additionally, the club offers scholarships to students entering their final year of studies in the following programs: RN diploma, ASN or ADN, BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD or comparable program. Residents from 10 counties, including Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, and Washington, can apply by visiting www. pittsburghfoundation.org or by mailing to: The Pittsburgh Foundation, Five PPG place, Suite 250, Pittsburgh, PA ,15222-5414, ATT: Scholarship Department. Deadline for completed application is the end of March of the year prior to the final year or term. Sign up at swpafreetaxes.org.
AUP MEET
The Association of University People (AUP) invites singles 50 and over who are fouryear college graduates to join them for activities and to meet new people. Activities include monthly dinners, social gatherings, concerts, meeting up at local wineries, and day trips. Those interested can attend three activities as guests before joining. To obtain more information about AUP or become an AUP member, call and leave a message at 412-353-9088 or email Aupsingles@gmail. com.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF TIM RUSSELL/MAGGIE’S FARM RUM DISTILLERY
Cocktail bar and restaurant inside Maggie’s Farm Rum Distillery, Upper St. Clair
Owner Tim Russell with wife, Layla, and daughter, Alaina, with distilling equipment at Maggie’s Farm Rum Distillery in Upper St. Clair
Maggie’s Farm Rum Distillery’s award-winning rum, Upper St. Clair
LOST DOG DO NOT CHASE
a great 12.33 ac lot! Upward sloping from Palmer Rd. Level area would make
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AUDI
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