The Almanac - March 31, 2024

the almanac

PT unified bocce team wins state tournament in 1st season

By Jon Andreassi Staff writer jandreassi@observer-reporter.com

Peters Township School District’s unified bocce team finished its inaugural season with victory last week. The team won the PIAA state championship tournament March 21 in Hershey. Head Coach Mark Seckar, a math teacher at Peters Township High School, said each member of the five-person squad played their part in the three tournament matches. “All of them threw equally well. They all contributed.

Our athletes had some of the biggest throws of the whole competition. There were a lot of nerves, for sure,” Seckar said.

Seckar added that they won a “close game” against Northern York County School District to claim first place.

The unified sports leagues are sponsored by the Pennsylvania branch of the Special Olympics, and aim to help special needs students participate in athletics.

The two athletes on the Peters Township team are Wyatt Johnston and Parker Mamula, who are both

By Katherine Mansfield Staff writer mansfield@observer-reporter.com

On Saturday afternoon, dozens of parishioners holding elaborate baskets filled with sweet and savory goodies gathered inside St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville for the traditional Easter basket blessing service.

“The blessing of Easter baskets goes back to at least the Middle Ages,” said the Rev. Robert “Father Bob” Miller, who serves at St. John the XXIII Parish, which includes St. Francis, St. Isaac Jogues Church in Jefferson Hills and St. Benedict the Abbot Church in McMurray. “Immigrants from Eastern Europe, particularly Poland, brought that tradition to this country.”

The tradition is rich in culture and symbolism. Christians, especially Catholics, begin a 40-day period of fasting on

Ash Wednesday, which culminates in joyful celebration on Easter Sunday. During the Lenten season many restrict or abstain from meat, oils and other foods, like chocolate or butter. “What is in the basket and what is being blessed is supper, to be the first meal of Easter. From Good Friday until after the Easter vigil, Catholics are supposed to be fasting,” said the Rev. Anthony Klimko, pastor at Roman Catholic Churches of Southern Fayette. “We’re breaking that fast and partaking in all of these wonderful foods.”

All the wonderful foods include Easter basket staples like butter, often shaped like a lamb, to symbolize the richness of salvation, and ham or other meats to represent the joy of Christ’s resurrection. Sausage links represent the chains of death broken by Jesus’s sacrifice and resurrection,

juniors. Also on the team are partner students Reston Lehman, sophomore; Sophia Ellison, senior; and Mark Ripepi, sophomore. Seckar coaches the team with assistant Brian Farrell, a health and physical education teacher at the high school.

According to Seckar, the path to Hershey was not easy. They started with eight players, which whittled down to five by the end of the season. He added that Mamula had difficulty stepping up when it was his turn to throw a bocce ball.

A low stress election

Most incumbents running unopposed in April 23 primary

By Brad Hundt Staff writer bhundt@observer-reporter.com

The April 23 primary election is, for the most part, going to be a pretty sleepy occasion for many South Hills residents. The two major parties have already chosen their presidential nominees, both parties have all but formally picked their U.S. Senate candidates, and all the state-level incumbents are running unopposed in the primary.

In 2022, state Rep. Natalie Stuck of the 40th Legislative District, had both a Republican opponent in the primary election and a Democratic opponent in the fall. This time, she has neither. Stuck recently changed her last name on the ballot to her married name from Mihalek. Her district includes Peters Township in Washington County, and parts of Upper St. Clair and Bethel Park. Stuck was first elected in 2018.

It will also be a stress-free election season for Dan Miller, the representative of the 42nd Legislative District. No Democrat is running against him in the primary election and no Republican has declared their candidacy for the seat. Mt. Lebanon, Dormont, Castle Shannon, Baldwin Township and portions of Upper St. Clair are all in Miller’s district. He has been a state representative since Stuck

The Peters Township School District’s unified bocce team won the PIAA championship tournament in Hershey March 21.

Stealing

According to the complaint, between December 2021 and October 2022, Deal used company credit cards and bank accounts to make more than $100,000 in personal purchases, including air travel, hotels, meals and online shopping.

Deal is also accused of funneling money from Shaffer’s Fabricating to “Arcadian Operations,” a supposed consulting firm. State police alleged that Arcadian Operations is a “front” that Deal would use to launder money stolen from the Shaffers, according to court records.

Three months before the Shaffers went to the police, Deal went to them and said the company was falling into debt. He then offered them $80,000 for 50% of the business. State police describe this in the complaint as an act of “corporate espionage,” meaning Deal put himself in a position to financially damage Shaffer Fabricating in order to devalue the company and purchase it at a low price.

When the Shaffers discovered the extent of the theft, Deal claimed that Shaffer’s Fabricating owed him another $30,000 to $60,000 for electrical work, but the Shaffers claim the work was never completed.

According to the complaint, Deal went on to threaten the Shaffers by telling them that if they did not “compromise” with him or reported him to the police, he would take legal action to “destroy” the business. He also allegedly threatened to make damaging reports to credit agencies and damage the company’s relationships with vendors, according to court documents.

Deal was arraigned Tuesday afternoon before District Judge Nathan Henning, who sent him to the Fayette County jail on $200,000 bond.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. April 10.

Bocce

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“In our first match of the year, Parker was very withdrawn and really did not want to participate,” Seckar said. Getting kids out of their shells is part of the goal with unified sports. For Mamula, Seckar said a pair of sunglasses and a hat helped him get up for his throws.

“It was a great accomplishment, just to get him to participate,” Seckar said.

If some of those nerves returned for Mamula at the Giant Center in Hershey, it was not for long.

“After he got going, he was fantastic,” Seckar said.

Including the tournament games, the Peters bocce team finished its first season with a 13-4 record. Seckar says win or lose, unified sports are a help to the kids participating.

“One of the best things about the unified sports is just to see the interaction between kids, and how they get along and are able to work together toward a common goal,” Seckar said. “And also able to make some pretty lasting friendships.”

Basket

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colored eggs are reminders of hope and new life and candles, which are commonly included in the baskets, remind those present that Christ is the light of the world.

Wine is often included in baskets, and horseradish is symbolic of the bitterness of the Passion of Christ (“Who knew horseradish had its own blessing?” Miller laughed).

“You can’t forget the Easter bread,” Klimko said. “The paska, like a sweetened yeast bread. It’s so delicious.”

Paska, or pascha, depending on one’s ethnic spelling, bread is a work of art and labor of love; some women simply top the bread with a cross, while others braid their loaves or fashion them into circles decorated with a crown of thorns. That bread is often paired with Easter cheese, which symbolizes moderation, handmade from recipes passed down through generations.

“My daughter and I bake the bread, we use a recipe that was passed down to us,” said Veronica Kochinski, who lives in McMurray and belongs to St. John the XXIII parish. “We bake our own bread, we make our

own cheese. We grind our own horseradish. I bake kolachky, which are the Eastern European cookies that have the filling. It’s a lot of work, making the bread and all the other things. It’s a labor of love.”

Kochinski has been preparing Easter baskets for blessing since she was a little girl in Windber, where she and her parents attended St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church.

“My grandparents and my parents did it, and then when I got married, I did it,” she said. “My daughter does it and her children each do it. Even as children, they made their own basket and took it to church and got it blessed. We look forward to that every year.”

Basket preparation is a time of reflection for Kochinski and many other faithful.

“You think about why Christ died, and his resurrection, and what it means,” she said. “You think about the people who can’t enjoy doing that, especially in Eastern European countries. We’re very happy to do it and to share it with family and friends. It’s just a wonderful, symbolic way to celebrate Easter.”

Every year, save the COVID years, Kochinski and her husband pack their baskets and travel to Windber, to celebrate Easter with relatives, beginning with the Easter basket blessing. “It’s a beautiful ceremony, not very long,” she said. “We would go to my cousin’s house, then we partake in the food. We really look forward to that.”

WOMEN of Southwestern PA hosts 15th annual Symphony of Food fundraiser

WOMEN of Southwestern PA Inc. is a charitable, nonprofit organization based in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. The 15th Annual Symphony of Food was held Jan. 26 at Bella Sera, with 250 patrons attending the sold-out gala. The group directly supports women and children in Allegheny, Washington, Greene, Beaver, Fayette and Westmoreland counties. Over the past 23 years, more

than $988,000 has been distributed as grants up to $3,500.

WOMEN of Southwestern PA accepts applications for grants up to $3,500 a year from nonprofits that align with the mission from March 15 to May 1. Grant applications can be found online at womenofswpa. org, along with information about donations or joining the organization.

Basket blessings were also held at churches throughout Washington and Greene counties. Parishioners from St. Matthias Parish in Greene County celebrated basket blessings Saturday at both St. Ann in Waynesburg and St. Ignatius in Bobtown. Margaret McCombs, of Carmichaels, is among those who participated in the St. Ann’s basket blessing.

“It just wouldn’t feel right, like Easter, if we didn’t do it,” said McCombs, whose earliest Easter memories include putting together a basket with her mother. “We’ve always taken this basket to church on the Saturday before Easter. We would come home and we would eat our blessed food. It’s just a family tradition.”

McCombs’ family fills baskets with all the traditional things, including homebaked paska bread and Easter cheese, plus pierogies, which were until this year homemade.

“I remember as a little girl, running into the house, I couldn’t wait for that bread to be made,” McCombs laughed. “My mother would have it (cheese) hanging from the handles in the kitchen. We always made pierogies. Everybody makes their basket differently. When you go to the church, the front of the church along the altar, everybody lines their baskets up. It’s just a Catholic tradition.”

WOMEN OF SOUTHWESTERN PA ACCEPTS APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS UP TO $3,500 A YEAR FROM NONPROFITS THAT ALIGN WITH THE MISSION FROM MARCH 15 TO MAY 1.

COURTESY OF MARGARET MCCOMBS

Every year since she can remember, Margaret McCombs has prepared an Easter basket for her church’s basket blessing service the day before Easter. Last year’s basket, per tradition, was filled with colored eggs, meats, chocolate and other sweet and savory foods, all of which are symbolic.

COURTESY OF VERONICA KOCHINSKI

Ever since she was a little girl, Veronica Kochinski has put together Easter baskets for blessing the Saturday before Resurrection Sunday.

COURTESY OF MARGARET MCCOMBS

Margaret McCombs bakes Paska bread every year for Easter, and the loaves are included in her basket, brought to church for the annual blessing service.

COURTESY OF WOMEN OF SOUTHWESTERN PA

2013. Anita Astorino Kulik, the Democratic representative of the 45th Legislative District, which encompasses Bridgeville, Carnegie, Collier Township and other Allegheny County communities, also has no Democratic competitor in the primary election, and will have no GOP opponent in the Nov. 5 general election.

State Rep. Jason Ortitay of the 46th Legislative District, which contains South Fayette Township along with parts of northern Washington County, has no Republican opponent in the primary election. Alexander Taylor, a Canonsburg resident, is the sole Democrat competing in the primary.

Republican Devlin Robinson was elected state senator in 2020 by unseating Democrat Pam Iovino in the 37th Senatorial District, and in the fall he will face off against Democrat Nicole Stoicovy-Ruscitto, a former member of Jefferson Hills Council and a teacher in the South Park School District. Neither faces opposition in the primary election.

Perhaps the marquee primary battle in the area is the Democratic contest between U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, who won the seat in the 12th Congressional District in 2022 following the retirement of longtime Congressman Mike Doyle, and Bhavini Patel, a member of Edgewood Borough Council. The winner will face Republican James Hayes, a businessman and economist who lives in Shadyside, in November.

The last day to register to vote in the primary or change party affiliation is April 8, and the last day to apply for a mail-in ballot is April 16. Mail-in ballots must be received by the Allegheny County elections office by 8 p.m. April 23.

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association of Canonsburg was initially started in 1925 to provide loans to Slovenian immigrants whom couldn’t obtain loans through traditional banks.

SLOVENIAN SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION TRADITIONAL VALUES, PERSONAL SERVICE

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association holds a Savings Bank charter and is open to all residents of Washington County for all banking needs at its current location on Boone Avenue in Strabane.

All of our services are maintained with limited costs, whether it’s checking, savings, money orders, internet banking, etc.

SLOVENIAN SAVING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION TRADITIONAL VALUES, PERSONAL SERVICE

Our staff is trained that personal service for all banking needs is a great benefit and fosters greater personal relationships.

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association of Canonsburg was initially started in 1925 to provide loans to Slovenian immigrants whom couldn’t obtain loans through traditional banks.

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association of Canonsburg was initially started in 1925 to provide loans to Slovenian immigrants whom couldn’t obtain loans through traditional banks.

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association holds a Savings Bank charter and is open to all residents of Washington County for all banking needs at its current location on Boone Avenue in Strabane.

For close to 100 years the institution has maintained a strong balance sheet and superior earnings. The FDIC has classified the bank as “Well Capitalized”, exceeding all the stringent capital requirements.

Slovenian Savings and Loan Association holds a Savings ank charter and is open to all residents of Washington County for all banking needs at its current location on Boone Avenue in Strabane.

All of our services are maintained with limited costs, whether it’s checking, savings, money orders, internet banking, etc.

Conservatively managed, the safety and soundness of the institution is prioritized. Thanks to you, our customers, for our continued success.

All of our services are maintained with limited costs, whether it’s checking, savings, money orders, internet banking, etc.

Very truly yours,

Our staff is trained that personal service for all banking needs is a great benefit and fosters greater personal relationships.

Our staff is trained that personal service for all anking needs is a great benefit and fosters greater personal relationships.

For close to 100 years the institution has maintained a strong balance sheet and superior earnings. The FDIC has classified the bank as “Well Capitalized”, exceeding all the stringent capital requirements.

For close to 100 years the institution has maintained a strong balance sheet and superior earnings. The FDIC has classified the bank as “Well Capitalized”, exceeding all the stringent capital requirements.

Bruce R. Kurtz Chairman/President

Conservatively managed, the safety and soundness of the institution is prioritized. Thanks to you, our customers, for our continued success.

Conservatively managed, the safety and soundness of he institution is prioritized. Thanks to you, our customers, for our continued success.

Very truly yours,

Very truly yours,

Bruce R. Kurtz Chairman/President

USC’s Santel, Tenney named to All-State Band

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Slow and steady

Mt. Lebanon building up for baseball surge

By Eleanor Bailey

Mt. Lebanon notoriously is a slow starter in baseball. In fact, the Blue Devils started 0-8 in the past two years only to recover to claim back-to-back district championships.

In 2024, the Blue Devils are off to a so-so start. Lebo edged arch rival Upper St. Clair, 4-3, but dropped a 10-3 decision to Shaler, which won the WPIAL and PIAA Class 5A titles last spring.

Plus, Lebo has begun the season without their pitching ace. Kevin Shields is sidelined with mononucleosis.

“We do not yet know when he will be able to return,” said Lebo manager Patt McCloskey. The loss of Shields is a blow. The southpaw was 6-2 last year with a 0.94 ERA and a school-record 106 strikeouts in 67 2/3 innings. Shields also hurled a no-hitter in the WPIAL championship win, 4-0, against North Allegheny last May.

A Miami recruit, Shields, who reclassified as a senior this year so as to be eligible for Major League Baseball’s amateur draft this summer, also is a starter in Lebo’s outfield. He batted .338 last spring.

The Blue Devils return four other starters from last year’s 16-11 club that finished runner-up in the state. They are all infielders, giving Lebo strength on defense. Nate Girod anchors the unit at shortstop. Brett Hamel returns at second base and Jake Tinnemeyer handles the hot corner at third base. Nolan Smith is

SF savoring time together on diamond

By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

Time is fleeting. Ken Mor-

gan knows this. That is why the South Fayette baseball coach is relishing the 37 days from when the Lions open section play on April 2 at Peters Township until the regular season ends with an exhibition contest at Moon on May 9.

“The seasons go fast and these guys’ high school careers fly by so you have to enjoy every moment. It’s really important to slow it down and enjoy watching them grow as players and people.”

In 10 seasons, Morgan has seen many players develop into responsible citizens. Many are employed or in the process of getting jobs. Some have gotten married. Some are even on his coaching staff.

“It’s awesome to see, but it’s really rewarding and cool to witness the maturity and growth of freshmen to their senior year. It is very much like parenting; have to slow time down and enjoy where your feet are.”

The Lions’ paws are firmly planted on progress this spring as they return only three starters from last year’s 16-5-1 squad that finished runner-up to Bethel Park in Section 2 and lost to Plum, 5-4, in the quarterfinals of the 2023 WPIAL Class 5A tournament. Tyler Skeen moves from second base to shortstop this year to fill the gap caused by

Michael DiMartini’s matriculation to Penn State. The senior also looks to be SF’s pitching ace replacing the strong arms lost to graduation as Tyler Pitzer is now pitching for the University of South Carolina and Chase Krewson is pitching at Duke. Both also are outfielders.

Gino Satira is a returning starter at first base, but he will man shortstop when Skeen is on the mound. Satire is SF’s No. 3 pitcher.

Anthony Diodata started in the outfield last year and can play every position. However, the junior will be the starting center fielder this year.

Chaz Kosko, Tyler Schepis, Bo Stover, Dom Kushner, Jack Bishop, Ethan Rose and Brayden Harris are the newcomers filling vacancies caused by graduation. A junior, Kosko catches. “He has a strong arm behind the plate. A bigger kid, he blocks well,” Morgan said.

A defensive replacement in 2023, Schepis starts at second base this year. Morgan describes the senior as “very solid in the field, scrappy. A blue collar guy.”

Kushner starts in left and Bishop in right fields. Both are seniors. Kushner possesses “high energy” and is a “great athlete,” says Morgan. He saw limited action last year because of overcrowding in the outfield last year. “Very fast, slender build with a good arm,” Morgan said of Bishop.

the catcher. He also has experience on the mound, having started last spring.

In addition to Shields, Weston Airey and Danny Clevenger are experienced outfielders.

Airey gives Lebo additional strength on the mound. Other aces include Caleb Weidnman and Chase Smith while Maddox Yost spells Nolan Smith behind the plate when he is pitching for the Blue Devils.

Freshman Graham Keen is already filling the void at first base. He smacked a three-run homer in the loss to Shaler. He also socked a two-run round-tripper against USC.

In the seventh inning of that win, Tinnemeyer singled to drive home Frank Taucher with the tying tally. Tinnemeyer, who moved to third on a single by Airey, scored the game-winning run on Nolan Smith’s walk-off single.

“We have some players with some experience with both winning and losing from last year,” McCloskey said. “The seniors have provided great leadership so far and Graham has been hitting a ton. It’s early on in the season and at this point we are working on everything and still trying to figure things out.”

Bethel Park expects success on diamond despite new look

Novelty surrounds the Bethel Park varsity baseball team this season. The Black Hawks return only one hitter in shortstop Ryan Petras (.427 with 19 stolen bases) and one pitcher who started the majority of last season. So while there are question marks, there is plenty of excitement this spring as Bethel Park attempts to return to the WPIAL finals for the second time in a row and the PIAA championship game for the third time in four years. The Black Hawks were 18-7 in 2023 with a Class 5A runner-up showing and a state quarterfinal appearance after winning back-to-back PIAA crowns in 2021 and 2022. “Even with so many new faces our goals remain the

same,” said BP skipper Patrick Zehnder. “We have a lot of learning and growing to do as a young and inexperienced team this year, but we have plenty of talented and team-first competitors that are hungry for their chance to show everyone what they can do.”

During a busy offseason, where the players dedicated themselves to the weight room and drills. the Black Hawks have honed their skills to the level where they anticipate battling for section, WPIAL and state championships.

In turn, Zehnder and his coaching staff have been putting in the work to get to know the newcomers and fashion a squad that is ready to compete in a highly-competitive division.

“I feel like I learn something new almost everyday

Colts fall in state finals

not negate an otherwise successful year. They captured the Varsity A Blue division before embarking on their Penguins Cup run.

After beating Moon, 4-0, and Indiana, 2-1, to reach the PIHL A final, the Colts edged Greensburg Salem (18-61) for the title. Tyler Held scored the game-winning goal at 1:42 into overtime.

At 10:49 in the third period, Romeo Isoldi was credited with the equalizer when he deflected a shot by Brayden Knight into the net.

In addition to Knight, Austin Efthimiades was credited with an assist on the goal that tied the match, 1-1, and forced overtime.

After a scoreless first period, Carter Cherok propelled Greensburg Salem (18-6-1) into the lead, 1-0. Jake Fink assisted on the goal that occurred 37 seconds into the second period.

In the nets, Matthew Colberg faced 28 shots, turning back 27 for the Colts, who put 21 shots on goal against Tristan Gonzales.

During the year, Colberg led the PIHL with seven shutouts, including one in the playoffs. Additionally, CV had one of the stingiest defenses, allowing only 26 goals before the loss to Hershey.

During the regular season, Callender led all of Class A in scoring with 30 goals.

Patt McCloskey is back at the helm of the Mt. Lebanon baseball team after leading the Blue Devils to backto-back WPIAL championships and a PIAA runner-up showing in 2023.

Steady

FROM PAGE B1

McCloskey hopes to be prepared for the section opener this week. The Blue Devils host Canon-McMillan at 4;15 p.m. April 3. The three-game, homeand-away series continues April 4 and 5. Section 2 also features Central Catholic, Norwin, Baldwin and Hempfield.

“The section is very good,” McCloskey said. “Any one of the six teams could win the section. There will be two good teams that do not qualify for the playoffs.”

Regardless, Lebo’s expectations for the season remain optimistic.

“It’s the same as every year. Fight through a brutal 15 game section season that features five 3-game series,” McCloskey said. “We want to qualify for the playoffs and be playing at our best when the playoffs arrive.

“That’s the one thing I have learned throughout my years of coaching. Just try to get in the playoffs,” he continued. “If you do that, you have a chance.”

Success

FROM PAGE B1

from our players and our great assistant coaches. The players have been so coachable and hungry to learn. They ask questions and make suggestions, and I have learned a lot just from those interactions.

“As a coach, you have to always keep learning and growing with your team,” Zehnder continued. “No team is the same from one year to the next, no matter how many players or coaches return from the previous season. The more I can learn about who they are as people and what motivates them, the better I can try to enhance their strengths and remediate their weaknesses, and do it in the most effective way possible for each individual.”

Bethel Park opens section action with a home-and-away series with rival Upper St. Clair on April 2 at 4 p.m. at Purkey Field and April 3 at 7 p.m. at Boyce-Mayview Field. The challenge continues with South Fayette April 8-9 and Peters Township April 15-16.

“As usual, the section is loaded, and will make for very exciting back-toback games,” said Zehnder. “Trinity has a ton of high level college talent. Peters Twp always plays us tough, and makes for exciting games, South Fayette lost some D1 talent, but still are very good, and USC will be a tough team to beat.”

and struck out six in three innings of work before yielding to Nick Rillo and Dylan Paul, who both tossed a scoreless frame.

Ryan Tierney went 3-for-3 at the plate with a double and two runs scored while Petras socked two hits, walked once, swiped two bases, scored three times and drove in a run.

Ethan Stanoff drove in three runs with a double and a single while Ryan Walsh and Paul each drove in two runs.

Against the Raiders, Walsh worked four frames, striking out four, allowing one hit and no earned runs, before yielding to Dylan Schumacher and Mike Bruckner. Offensively, Tierney and Stanhoff had two hits. Bruckner doubled while Diulus and Petras had RBI singles. Diulus and Walsh should be BP’s aces. Both are right-handed hurlers with the most experience on the staff with 16 and seven innings pitched last spring. Walsh is a Virginia Tech recruit.

Despite their youth, the Black Hawks have already shown they will be a tough out this spring. They crushed Canon-McMillan, 11-1, in their home opener on March 20. They also battled Seneca Valley to a 4-4 draw. The contest was suspended because of rain and darkness after eight innings.

In the win against the Big Macs, Santino Diulus scattered four hits

Time FROM PAGE B1

A right-hander that throws sidearm between 88-90 MPH, Rose is SF’s No. 2 pitcher. He can also play first base. A junior, Harris will platoon and push for a starting spot in the outfield. “Brayden is extremely athletic and aggressive, but very raw and learning his body. Would expect a large contribution from him,” Morgan said. The Lions will also rely upon seniors Adam Caye and Nick Battistone, juniors Connor Rynn and Ethan Keener as well as sophomores Brad Bauman, Bo Stover and Issac Jutca

The pair along with Paul, Schumacher, Joey Levis and Owen White look to fill the void on the mound caused by Evan Holewinski’s matriculation to Kent State. Holewinski owned a 20-3 career record with a 0.68 ERA and two state titles.

Additionally the Black Hawks are looking to fill the spot behind the plate. A four-year starter, John Chalus is now catching at Mercyhurst. Stanoff, Rillo and Noah LeJeune have battled for those duties while

also splitting time at other infield positions. Mike Bruckner, who started half of last season and batted .261, doubles as an infielder and outfielder as does his brother, Jack. Both are getting a late start because they just finished helping the basketball team reach the PIAA state quarterfinals for the first time since 2000.

In addition to Tierney and the Bruckners, Randy Bergia and Aaron Hofbauer are outfielders. While Levis is a versatile player beyond his pitching skills, Ben Lentz, Kaden Flambard are infielders along with Owen White, who also doubles as a pitcher.

“The team’s strength should continue to be pitching and defense,” Zehnder said. “A lot of new players will be filling positions defensively and offensively, but they have plenty of talent. They have worked very hard to get themselves ready for the season. The pitching staff returns a few arms, but also has multiple guys that had little to no varsity innings last season that will fill major roles this year.”

With so many new players filling positions, Zehnder acknowledges that the Black Hawks have a lot of work to do and they will surely have to make some adjustments especially during the early stages of the season. But that is what makes managing fun, he notes.

“I am very excited to see how the rest of the unit gels together and grows together throughout this season,” he said.

“OUR EXPECTATIONS ARE TO PUT A PRODUCT ON THE FIELD THAT REFLECTS WHAT WE STAND FOR IN THE PROGRAM. HARD WORKING, BLUE COLLAR, HUSTLERS WHO ARE TOUGH AS HECK TO PLAY AGAINST.”

— KEN MORGAN, SOUTH FAYETTE BASEBALL COACH

“I think our strength is going to reside in the closeness of this team,” Morgan said. “They really care about each other and are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. I believe us to be very scrappy, a mix of driving gaps and playing small. While on the mound we will look to be efficient with our starts, throw strikes, use the defense and extend outings.”

The Lions opened the 2024 campaign with a shutout win, 8-0, against Central Catholic. Skeen, Rose, Satira and Rynn combined for a 3-hitter. Stover and Diodata collected two hits apiece while scoring two

and three runs respectively. Satira smacked a three-run single while Skeen, Bishop and Rose collected base hits to round out SF’s offensive attack.

After the away-and-home series with Peters Township, South Fayette continues Section 2 play battling Bethel Park–at Purkey Field on April 8 and at home on April 9. The Lions will also battle Connellsville, Trinity and Upper St. Clair (April 29-30) in league play.

“Each and everyone of the section teams are tough,” Morgan said. “I expect great games and matchups. I am looking for these guys to continue finding unique ways to impact the game. Causing chaos and being a really hard team to play.

“Our expectations are to put a product on the field that reflects what we stand for in the program. Hard working, blue collar, hustlers who are tough as heck to play against,” he concluded.

sights & sounds

Pictures at an Exhibition

River City Brass Band merges

music with visual arts

By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger For the Observer-Reporter newsroom@observer-reporter.com

The beloved River City Brass Band (RCB), which also has the distinction of being the only professional full-time brass band in the country, is bringing a unique performance to four locations in Southwestern Pennsylvania this April, including Bethel Park High School.

Called Pictures at an Exhibition, the concert is inspired by the visual arts, with selections like “Night on Bald Mountain,” “Mona Lisa,” “Vincent” and “Viva La Vida.”

Artistic and General Director James Gourlay, said that the audience will be in for a treat with songs that range from the 1800s up through the present, demonstrating the band’s commitment to dynamic and contemporary performances to attract a diverse audience.

“It’s an eclectic mix of music from classical, to pop and jazz, all of which have a connection to the visual arts in one way or another,” said Gourlay, adding that the audience are likely to recognize everything from Bach, to Lady Gaga.

Journey of an artistic director

Gourlay began honing his musical chops at a young age in his home country of Scotland.

“I learned the tuba at age 10,” Gourlay said, remarking on when

he was “volunteered” to play in the school brass band and assigned the instrument due to his tall height. He later went on to play in symphony orchestras in Europe and taught in major conservatories of music, all the while sharpening his skills as a conductor and musician.

It’s no surprise to Gourlay that conductors are among the longest-lived individuals. While the natural conclusion is to assume longevity is born from being around soothing music, Gourlay is quick to point out that conducting is an aerobic exercise by itself.

what’s happening

TARTAN DAY

Pittsburgh Tartan Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 6 at the Bethel Presbyterian Church, located at 2999 Bethel Church Road. The free event promotes Scottish heritage and features entertainment from bagpipers, fiddlers and dancers as well as food, raffles and Celtic workshops.

COIN CLUB

The South Hills Coin Club will meet at 7:30 p.m. April 9 at the Bethel Park municipal building, located at 5100 W. Library Ave. All members and the general public can attend. There will be a 50/50 raffle and children’s prizes awarded. Applications are being accepted for membership. Call 724-984-6611 for details.

GIANT OAKS

The Giant Oaks Garden Club will meet at 11:15 a.m. April 4 at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 905 McMurray Road. Gary Van Gelder from the Western Pennsylvania Orchid Society will speak on the varieties of orchids and their care.There will be orchids to purchase. The Lunch fee is $6. Register by 724-470-6170.

ROAD TRIP

The Baldwin Community United Methodist Church is offering a trip to the Smoky Mountains from Aug. 5 to 8. Cost per person ranges from $1,133 for single to $859 for quad lodging occupancy. Highlights include Pigeon Forge, moonshine tasting, the Incredible Christmas Place, Dollywood, Sevierville and the Titanic Museum attraction. Reservations require a $100 per person deposit. Final payment must be made by June 1. Call 412-885-4560 for details.

GIRL PARTY

The Dolly and Me Lunch, hosted by Mother of Mercy Academy PTG, will

PT REC

When reading reviews of RCB, it becomes evident that both fans and fellow musicians are happy to pay homage to the talent that has earned him international acclaim and recognition among the “Top 30 Professionals of the Year” by Musical America. It’s no wonder that he’s been in demand to perform with major orchestras around the globe.

Gourlay said the time was right to make a move when RCB put out an international search. When he accepted the position in 2010, he wasn’t sure what to expect.

A spring terracotta pot painting class for ages

and beverages, there will be nail painting, hair braiding, doll hair salon, make-yourown bath bombs and other activities. Email Samanha. Raspat@gmail.com for reservations or more details.

The College Club of Carnegie will meet at 11:30 a.m. April 6 at Atria’s Restaurant, located at 4959 Washington Road in McMurray. Lunch is served at noon. “Flowers in the Springtime” will be the theme. Auction items and a 50/50 raffle will be held to benefit the scholarship fund.

“It turns out the city of Pittsburgh really embraced me,” he said.

4barsrest, which touts itself as “the most visited brass band website,” commentedonGourley’scontributiontoRCB.

“He has clearly built up a great rapport with regular subscribers, as well as the ever-growing Pittsburgh-area audience,” said writer Katie Urich. Ticket holder-turned volunteer

Nancy Truver and several members of her family were season-ticket holders for multiple years pre-pandemic. “Those were red-letter days on our calendars, and we never missed a concert,” she said, adding that the musicians play a good mix of familiar favorites and new tunes during themed performances. She said that she likes the fact that the director breaks up the program throughout the evening with various instrument solos, along with vocal and/or dance numbers. “I don’t think there is another professional musical organization like them — certainly not in this area with a director that has Gourlay’s background and qualifications.”

Now that Truver has retired, she’s returned as a volunteer to help the audience to their seats.

“It’s fun, it’s useful and it keeps me busy and on my toes for that half-hour or so before the concert begins. Plus, [the venue] is conveniently located only a few minutes away from where I live,” she said.

Women with a post-secondary education can attend and/ or join the club. Call membership chairperson Therese Condit for further information at 412-279-4458.

SH WOMEN

The South Hills Women’s Club will meet at 8 p.m. April 8 at Vanadium Woods Lobby, 50 Vanadium Road in Bridgeville. A social hour, refreshments and dessert will be served after a brief meeting. New members and guests may attend. RSVP to by calling 412-953-3209.

BENEFIT LUNCH

The Pittsburgh Alumnae Panhellenic (PAP), a chapter of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), will hold its annual scholarship benefit luncheon at 11 a.m. April 13 at the South Hills Country Club in Brentwood. This year’s event is themed “Raising Strong Women” and includes a fashion show featuring girls through collegians as well as a cash bar and raffle auction. Advance ticket purchase, no later than April 1, is required. The cost is $55 for adults, $35 for collegians and $20 for children. Reservations can be made through Eventbrite.

Truver says she believes that she speaks for many when she says that the concerts add richness to the Pittsburgh region.

“They bring a variety of music to the neighborhoods where people can drive, socialize with friends and hear old songs they’re familiar with, along with new ones as well. It builds a sense of community and that’s something we’re in particular need of these days,” she said.

Gourlay said that he feels the love and appreciation from the Pittsburgh audiences and each time the band performs, they try to touch them in some way.

“For the older audiences, it may be Nat King Cole that takes them back with ‘Mona Lisa.’ For the younger, it could be ‘Vincent’ by Don Mclean, or ‘Viva la Vida,’ by Coldplay. All of the tunes mean something to me as I look back on my life, and I hope they will resonate with the audience as well,” he said.

If you go

River City Brass will play at 7:30 p.m. on the following dates:

■ April 4 —Linton Middle School, Penn Hills

■ April 5 —Carson Middle School, McCandless

■ April 6 —The Palace Theatre, Greensburg

■ April 9 —Bethel Park High School, South Hills Tickets are available at rivercitybrass.org.

FAIRWAY SWINGERS

The Fairway Swingers are looking for new members for its ladies golf league. The group golfs Thursday mornings from April through October at the Mt. Lebanon municipal golf course. Members need not be Mt. Lebanon residents. All skill levels are welcome. Email guenther. clg@gmail.com for more details.

GOLFERS WANTED

The Women’s Golf Association of Mt. Lebanon is looking for new members. The group golfs between 7:15 and 9:30 a.m. every Tuesday morning from April through September. Residents and non-residents are welcome. Contact Diane at 412-583-6283 or Sharon at 412-480-3319 for more information.

COURTESY OF RIVER CITY BRASS BAND River City Brass Band will marry music and art during performances across the region in April, including shows in Greensburg and Bethel Park.

Artist Frida Khalo’s painting “Viva La Vida” will come to life with Coldplay’s song of the same name during River City Brass Bands upcoming performances.

COURTESY OF RIVER CITY BRASS BAND River City Brass Band’s Pictures at an Exhibition puts music to artwork during its April performances in Greensburg, Bethel Park, Penn Hills and McCandless.

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