The Almanac - Dec. 31, 2023

the almanac D E C E M B E R 31, 2023

SOUTH HILLS COMMUNITY NEWS

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Communities brace for increased garbage collection rates in 2024

By Jon Andreassi Staff Writer

jandreass@observer-reporter.com

Once the clock rolls over into 2024, many in southwestern Pennsylvania can expect to start paying more for garbage collection.

In November Peters Township approved a hike to rates in light of the municipality’s new four-year contract with Waste Management. Residents can expect to pay $100

quarterly, a 27% increase over the previous $70.

Peters is just one of more than 20 communities that signed a new refuse collection contract through the South Hills Area Council of Governments (SHACOG), and costs have gone up across the board. How much those costs are passed on to customers varies from municipality to municipality.

Sue Dawson, administrative assistant for SHACOG,

said in an email that the organization does not, “have any information why the prices have increased the way they have,” and referred questions to Waste Management.

Waste Management responded to emailed questions concerning the changes to service next year.

“Like most businesses are experiencing, the cost of providing service has increased

Municipalities in the region are gearing up for a steep increase for garbage collection SEE GARBAGE PAGE A2 next year.

Making a difference W&J College student giving the gift of life this Christmas

By Karen Mansfield Staff Writer

kmansfield@observer-reporter.com

Like many college students, Washington & Jefferson College senior Erin Burns spent much of early December studying for finals.

But the accounting major added one more activity to her to-do list: potentially save a stranger’s life.

Burns, 21, traveled to New York City earlier this month to donate blood stem cells to a 65-year-old woman suffering from Myelodysplastic Syndrome.

During a campus event months before, Burns had registered with Be the Match, a national organization that finds healthy matches for patients with leukemia, lymphoma, sickle cell anemia and other blood disorders who are in need of a bone marrow transplant.

“I was going to lunch, and representatives from (Be the Match) had a table set up and asked if anyone wanted to do a cheek swab to be added to the (National Marrow Donor Program) registry. It takes five seconds, so I thought, why not?” said Burns. “About a year later, they texted me and said I was a match for somebody and wanted me to call them.”

She didn’t hesitate.

Burns spent several weeks preparing to donate blood stem cells. She underwent a physical exam, several rounds of blood testing and vein testing.

Leading up to the day of the procedure, for five days, Burns received a round of shots to boost her stem cell production ahead of the transfusion.

COURTESY OF NIKHITA THAKURIA

Nikhita Thakuria, a junior at Upper St. Clair High School, launched Quills and Keyboard as part of a school project. Now, after a contest earlier this year garnered 541 submissions from around the world, Quills and Keyboard is a nonprofit dedicated to providing a platform for and writing feedback to young writers.

Global project Upper St. Clair student launches international writing contest

By Katherine Mansfield Staff writer

mansfield@observer-reporter.com

COURTESY OF ERIN BURNS

SEE LIFE PAGE A2 Erin Burns donated blood stem cells that saved the life of a 65-year-old woman battling a blood cancer.

Recently retired BP police chief found dead in home

By Jon Andreassi Staff writer

jandreassi@observer-reporter.com

The former Bethel Park chief of police was found dead in his home Tuesday evening.

Timothy O’Connor, 66, retired from his job as the head of the local police department about a month ago.

According to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner, Allegheny County Police found O’Connor at about

Former Bethel Park police Chief Timothy O’Connor speaks at an event in 2021.

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11:45 p.m. at his home in the 3000 block of Forest Road.

The medical examiner determined he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Bethel Park issued a statement Wednesday night offering condolences to O’Connor’s family and friends.

“Chief O’Connor was a dedicated law enforcement professional who served the Bethel Park community for many years until he recently transitioned from his position. We’re asking that the

SPORTS 2023 a year of firsts for local teams and athletes PAGE B1 Real estate transactions, A3

privacy of his family be respected during this difficult time,” the statement reads.

The Bethel Park Police Department also posted a statement on its Facebook page.

“It is with great sadness the Bethel Park Police Department announces that retired Police Chief Timothy C. O’Connor has passed away. Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the department posted.

What started as a required school project turned into an international writing contest that bridged Upper St. Clair students to teen writers across the globe.

Earlier this year, Nikhita Thakuria, then a sophomore at Upper St. Clair High School, created a website for the school’s mandatory International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, which encourages students to connect their studies and the real world.

“The very second that my school introduced the idea of what the MYP project was, I knew I had to do something with writing,” said Thakuria, who has penned short stories and chapter books since she was young, and last year received the Scholastic Writing and Arts Award Silver Key in flash fiction and short stories.

“My love for writing always stemmed from my love for reading. Instead of hanging out with my friends after school, I would go home and read a good book,” she laughed.

Originally Thakuria, who belongs to the high school’s robotics and STEAM club, SEE CONTEST PAGE A2

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Life FROM PAGE A1 At the Be the Match collection center in New York City, Burns donated her stem cells through a non-surgical procedure called peripheral bloodstream donation process (PBDC), or apheresis, where blood is removed through a needle in one arm and passed through a machine that collects the blood-forming cells. The remaining blood is returned through a needle in the other arm.

The process is similar to what is used when donating blood platelets.

“Overall, it was a simple procedure,” said Burns. “It took a little longer for me, I was there for nine hours, and I was getting a cold and was a little achy afterwards, but It didn’t take anything away from me to do it.”

An update on Burns’s recipient won’t be available until at least 30 days from when the blood stem cell transplant took place, but day 100 is a milestone because that’s when the greatest risk for critical side effects is past and when the stem cells have engrafted and begun making new blood cells.

One fun fact Burns learned is that the recipient’s blood type will change to her blood type after the transplant.

Erica Sevilla, public relations manager of Be the Match, said stem cells and stem cell donors are in high demand.

And donors between ages 18 and 35 are most sought-after.

“The younger the donor, the better chance of surviving for the patient. That’s why we recruit primarily on college campuses,” said Sevilla. “It’s great what Erin did. It’s amazing when we have a college student who’s going from finals and then donating. It’s remarkable what she did.”

Registrations from the Be the Match On Campus program have a 1 in 119 chance of going on to donate.

There are 9 million potential donors on the donor registry in the United States, and 41 million potential do-

Garbage FROM PAGE A1 exponentially, especially over the past year,” said Erika Deyarmin Young, public affairs manager for Waste Management in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. “(Waste Management) is awarded municipal work through a bid process, where the community has the opportunity to award the service to the lowest, responsible bidder.”

Bethel Park approved the Waste Management contract in August. According to the meeting minutes, they will pay $3.5 million for waste collection next year, a $1.2 million increase.

Bethel Park residents pay for garbage through their property tax, which is due to go up by 0.75 mills in 2024.

In Dormont, residents are looking at a 47% increase in their garbage fees. Assistant Borough Manager Krista Watt said the annual cost for a sin-

nors registered worldwide.

In 2022, Be the Match facilitated more than 7,000 transplants, Sevilla said.

Since 1987, Be the Match has facilitated more than 120,000 transplants.

Matching with a family member only happens about 30% of the time, most often with a brother or a sister (since children inherit half their genes from each parent, a mother or father can only be a 50% match).

The 70% of patients who don’t have a match with a family member must rely on the kindness of strangers who donate their stem cells.

There also is a need for non-white donors, Sevilla said, since a successful stem cell match typically comes from a donor with the same ethnic background.

For white patients, the odds of finding a donor on the registry are nearly 80%.

But for Black patients, the odds are as low as 30%.

For example, 8-year-old Jax Ramirez, who has IPEX, a rare autoimmune disease affecting just one in 1.6 million people, has been waiting for a bone marrow match since October 2021. His mother, Missy Ramirez, has held more than 200 events in the past two years to find a donor.

“There is a need for diversity on the registry. There are fewer Asian, Hispanic, and Black potential donors registered,” Sevilla said.

For Burns, having the opportunity to be someone’s match for a transplant - and their only hope for a cure was impactful.

“Honestly, I would do it again. There were things I had to juggle with school, and some discomfort that came with the shots, but I would do it again. They don’t tell you much about the recipient, other than their age and gender, but that’s OK. I would encourage other people to do it. Adding yourself to the registry doesn’t take any time, and it makes a difference.”

Like many young writers, Nikhita Thakuria, a high school junior at Upper St. Clair, has notebooks filled with stories, many of which have never been shared. Her nonprofit Quills and Keyboard removes submission fees and other barriers to publication and aims to provide a platform (and feedback) to teen writers and authors around the world.

COURTESY OF NIKHITA THAKURIA

Contest

the contest, and got to work contacting magazines and nonprofits that cater to young writers.

“I emailed, like, every writing organization I could or every writer I knew would be interested in the contest. At first, I’m not gonna lie, people didn’t pay much attention to it. I really didn’t think that anything would come of it.

I was very disappointed,” Thakuria said.

After a slow start (and a website revamp, courtesy a robotics club friend), people started noticing Quills and Keyboard.

Polyphon Lit, an online literary publication for high school writers and editors, shared Quills and Keyboard on its Discord channel. NewPages Young Writers Guide wrote an article about the contest, and “that’s when I started to gain some traction,” Thakuria said.

The international magazine Skipping Stones, which caters to writers and readers ages 8 through 16, agreed to co-sponsor the contest and publish the winning works in three categories. Under the Madness Magazine, too, offered to partner with Quills and Keyboard and publish the contest winners in three different categories.

Both Skipping Stones and Under the Madness considered all Quills and Keyboard submissions for publication.

“I wasn’t expecting any of them to publish our winners.

That was something very shocking,” in a good way, Thakuria said.

Thakuria was interviewed

by The Smile Project, and Reedsy, which offers writing and publication advice and resources, named Quills and

Keyboard one of the best writing contests of 2023.

People from across the country, and then the globe, began submitting work to the small start-up contest in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

“I was getting upwards of 10, 20 submissions a day. I remember just being in class, refreshing the Google Forms app and seeing the number go up,” said Thakuria, who received a total of 541 submissions from around the world, including pieces from young Peruvian, Ukrainian, South Korean and South African writers.

Thakuria was impressed by the diversity of entrants and entries.

“The people who were submitting to my contest were just vulnerable. They wrote such touching stories. It was crazy how kind and sweet the people were and how powerful their writing was. There were some pieces, I would have to shut off my laptop and take a breather. There were certain pieces that actually made me cry a bit,” Thakuria said.

A panel of 30 judges comprised mostly of USC students and three adults, including author Chris DeSantis, selected the Gold, Silver, Bronze and Honorable Mentions in nine categories.

All participants received feedback on their pieces, and award winners received a certificate of recognition – and the chance to add that recognition to their resumes.

Quills and Keyboard grew into something bigger than Thakuria imagined. She recently filed for and received nonprofit status, so what began as a school assignment is

a nonprofit devoted to providing young writers of all backgrounds the opportunity to share and receive feedback on their work.

“Writing is supposed to unlock these parts of you that you might not even see in yourself. It’s so valuable to have someone else look at your writing and tell you how to improve, and have more equal opportunities for teenagers around the globe,” Thakuria said.

Thakuria is brainstorming ways to keep the momentum going, including hosting smaller genre contests throughout the school year.

Next year, she’ll host the second annual Quills and Keyboard contest, and is toying with the idea of printing winners’ work in a Quills and Keyboard magazine.

She’s hoping to receive even more submissions in 2024 and serve as a connection between all the lonely teens.

“As great as social media and the internet is, I feel like people aren’t as connected as they could be. There are so many echo chambers, there’s so much harsh criticism, especially for teenagers. It’s almost difficult to sort of have a platform where you can share what you want, especially when it comes to intimate things,” Thakuria said. “At its very essence, what (Quills and Keyboard) is supposed to be is a community of high school writers trying to encourage and support young writers around the globe. It’s supposed to be a mutually beneficial exchange.”

For more information on Quills and Keyboard, visit https://www.quillsandkeyboard.org/index.html.

“YOU’RE SEEING INCREASED WORKER COMPENSATION COSTS. IT’S ONE OF THE MORE DANGEROUS JOBS THAT EXIST. AS WELL AS THE NEED FOR NEW EQUIPMENT TO PROTECT THEIR WORKERS.” — KRISTA WATT, ASSISTANT BOROUGH MANAGER FOR DORMONT

monthly prices are going from about $19 to $26.80.

“Number one, fuel cost alone,” said Vern Ohler, Connellsville city clerk, about the increased rates. “If you look around at the increases, delinquency is another thing that drives the rates up.”

According to Ohler, this year the city entered into an agreement with the Connellsville Municipal Authority to have the authority handle billing for garbage fees. He said this will help provide better enforcement on delinquent bills.

“As the authority they have more teeth, more tools in their toolbox,” Ohler said.

Along with price increases, people will also have to adjust to Waste Management’s new system of automated collection, which allows employees to collect garbage without getting out of the truck. Customers in most communities will be provided a single bin, with additional bins available for a fee. Waste Management

will no longer take loose bags of garbage.

According to Young, this change comes down to safety, efficiency and cost.

“Automated collection is safer and more efficient for our front line team members. In addition, this type of service helps keep costs low because our automated collection trucks only require a one-person team to service the customer. Customers are limited to what fits in the carts because our automated collection system cannot collect material outside of the carts,” Young said.

The increases in garbage collection caught many off guard, but officials are hoping to avoid repeating that when it comes time to negotiate a new contract.

“We are looking into, what are we going to do 5 years from now? This was something that a lot of communities didn’t see until it was too close,” Watt said. “We’ve been trying to research as much as possible to prepare for the future.”

Note: If you are interested in joining the registry, please visit bethematch. com, and the organization will mail you a free cheek swab kit.

gle family home will jump to $329.44, up from $224.

Watt described a perfect storm of factors that led to the new contract being such a substantial spike.

“You’re seeing increased worker compensation costs.

It’s one of the more dangerous jobs that exist. As well as the need for new equipment to protect their workers,” Watt More crucially, however, Watt points out that the expiring contract was first put into place five years ago, before the COVID-19 pandemic. While prices remained steady under the previous contract, the bill is coming due for a drastically different economy.

“Wages across the country rose,” Watt said. “Now they

FROM PAGE A1 envisioned a website where her classmates could publish their writing. She even entertained daydreams of teen writers across America submitting their stories to Quills and Keyboard, and proudly adding that publication credit to their resumes.

It didn’t take long for Thakuria to get her Quills and Keyboard project up and running. To meet project requirements, Thakuria needed to spend additional hours working on the online publication. She brainstormed ways to make Quills and Keyboard bigger.

“What would actually be helpful to young authors?”

Thakuria wondered. “One of the biggest things is, young writers want recognition for their talents, they want awards. Oftentimes, that’s how you can justify being an author. I had already dealt with how difficult it was to get published, but more specifically, how difficult it was to get feedback. I wanted to encourage people around me to be able to just display their talents and receive feedback from somebody who really understands them.”

That’s when Quills and Keyboard shifted from an online magazine of sorts to an international writing contest.

The contest would be free, since submission fees are often a barrier to young and low-income writers’ voices being heard.

Thakuria worked with her math teacher Steve Miller to create a Google document for

have to catch up with it.”

While the monthly cost for garbage collection in Peters works out to be about $33, the township itself pays about $28 per month per customer.

Councilmember Gary Stiegel explained that delinquent bills are a factor in this difference.

“A lot of that is going to be due to the non-paying people. The township covers that, and the difference gets passed on to residents.”

Uniontown Mayor Bill Gerke said that delinquency is a big factor in driving up their costs.

The city approved a new contract with County Hauling in October. Weekly trash collection will now cost $28.50 per month, up from $14.95.

Gerke said that 32% of the bills in Uniontown are delinquent.

“Only 68% of residents are paying their garbage bills.

They’re only collecting twothirds of the garbage bills.

People that are paying are paying for the people who aren’t. The cost of doing business, that always comes into play. That’s a big driving force,” Gerke said.

Gerke added this also affects the bidding process.

He said that a high rate of delinquent bills is a red flag to haulers, and that County Hauling was the only bid they received.

The situation is similar in Connellsville. Under their new contract with County Hauling,

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Published by the Observer-Reporter, The Almanac is distributed free every week to homes in Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon, Peters Township, South Fayette and Upper St. Clair.

For delivery, call 724-941-7725 or 724-222-2201 or email circulation director Jeffrey S. King at jking@observer-reporter.net.

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DECEMBER 31, 2023

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Getting down to business Third-graders at Pleasant Valley Elementary School put their lessons on economic principles to the test at the economics fair earlier this month. Students created their own products, as well as marketing and sales plans.

Kids then went shopping to “purchase” their classmates’ new inventions.

Photos courtesy of Peters Township School District ABOVE LEFT: Annabelle Hunyady makes a sale to Theodore Gallagher at the third-grade economics fair at Pleasant Valley Elementary School. ABOVE RIGHT: Third-grade student Bodhi Nath stands behind his display of “Stick Buddies” at the economics fair.

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USC Class of 1993 celebrates 30-year reunion

Upper St. Clair High School, Class of 1993, held its 30th reunion recently. More than 40 members of the class attended various events, including touring the renovated high school building and attending the Panthers double-overtime football win against Moon. A reunion party was held at The Pennsylvania Market in the Strip District. Former students came from California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Washington to participate. Knut Saeter, and his wife, Shahin, traveled the farthest, arriving from outside of Oslo, Norway, to join the celebration. They were presented with a special Pittsburgh-themed gift in recognition of the travel distance. David Mandler, Sarah Jones Anderson, Michelle Ford Faist, Katie Talarico, Tammy Wheeler Lentz, and Brenda Greaves Provident organized the event.

Upper St. Clair places first in Model EU event Upper St. Clair High School students garnered two first place and one second-place finish at the 19th annual high school Model European Union (EU) competition held in December at the University of Pittsburgh.

Representing Finland, Isabel Vilensky and Shreya Sriram earned first place for Best Delegation. Representing Germany, Jamie Barrett placed first for Best Position Paper and placed second with Max Gresh for Best Delegation.

More than 150 students from 20 local high schools participated in the Model EU. With 20 students in attendance, USC sent one of the largest contingents to the event. The students were led

by Thomas Yochum, gifted education coordinator.

“TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MODEL EU REQUIRES AN ADVANCED UNDERSTANDING OF INTERNATIONAL POLICYMAKING AND DIPLOMATIC NEGOTIATIONS. TO WIN AT THE EVENT IS REMARKABLE.” — THOMAS YOCHUM, GIFTED EDUCATION COORDINATOR FOR UPPER ST. CLAIR HIGH SCHOOL

“Upper St. Clair High School has transformed into one of the strongest programs in the region due to the efforts of team members across all grade levels,” Yochum said.

“To participate in the Model EU requires an advanced un-

derstanding of international policymaking and diplomatic negotiations. To win at the event is remarkable.”

Playing the roles of presidents and prime ministers, students spend a day engaged in intense negotiations

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Upper St. Clair students Jamie Barrett, Max Gresh, Shreya Sriram and Isabel Vilensky scored first place during the 19th annual high school Model European Union competition.

over conflicting issues about the EU. The objective is to simulate a specific European Council meeting that focuses on recent current events impacting the EU. The Model EU topics centered on resolutions to help Europe strengthen democratic institutions and expand cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

“The goal of the Model EU is to give high school students a chance to learn about the workings of the European Union through a hands-on simulation,” according to the event’s website. “Model EU enhances students’ understanding of classroom learning and gives them a real sense of the challenges

involved in the decision-making process of the European Union.”

The event was sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh’s European Studies Center with funding from the U.S. Department of Education and Jean Monnet European Union Centers of Excellence.

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•

DECEMBER 31, 2023

Sisters keep salon business Our Young Artist rolling after nearly four decades

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Through relocations, economic downturns and a pandemic, sisters Lea Ann Rattigan and Jackie Romano have kept their Bethel Park salon running for 36 years.

Your Personal Image, at 2790 South Park Road, offers all manner of services for hair, nails and skin. The sisters explained that their mother owned a salon when they were growing up, and they developed a love for the business while working with her.

Rattigan and Romano first opened Your Personal Image on Park Avenue, and have been at the current location since 2001.

“We didn’t have hairstyling in the beginning when we had our first location.

When we moved here in 2001 we incorporated hairstyling and more waxing.

We’re always evolving and growing as a business,” Rattigan said.

Siblings, of course, do not always see eye to eye, but Rattigan and Romano have not had issues operating as both sisters and business partners.

“It has been easy,” Romano said.

Rattigan added that it boils down to mutual respect between them.

“We figured out a way to get through it ... We’ve just always had an underlying respect for each other,” Rattigan said.

Rattigan lives in Munhall and Romano in Finleyville, but they share a connection to Bethel Park after running their salon for nearly four decades.

“It’s a great community. People are

JON ANDREASSI/OBSERVER-REPORTER

Sisters Jackie Romano and Lea Ann Rattigan have operated Your Personal Image in Bethel Park for 36 years.

friendly and kind,” Romano said.

They credit the customers for helping them to survive through difficult times, including the 2008 financial crisis and the pandemic.

In either case, Rattigan says, “We made it work.” She recalled that clients were eager to get back to the salon while businesses were shut down.

“In general, people were clamoring to get back to beauty services. Beauty professionals fulfill not just a beauty need, but an internal need,” Rattigan said.

As they move forward, the sisters hope to continue expanding and finding ways to bring new services to their clients.

“The next best thing is coming soon,” Rattigan said.

Camilia Allen

2nd Grade - Trinity East Elementary For instructions on how to submit artwork, please call 724-222-2200 Ext. 2505 or email cslota@observer-reporter.com

Upper St. Clair teams excel at literary festival Upper St. Clair students earned a first place and two third-place finishes in the South Hills Literary Festival held recently at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall in Carnegie.

In the high school division, the high school team of Josh Beitler, Sophia Whitman and Carlee Santel placed first in the book sculpture challenge and third in the Battle of the Books. The Fort Couch team

of Seth Pedretti, Will Kreizenbeck, Owen Maher, and Max Belczyk took home third in the Battle of the Books middle school division.

The event is organized and funded by the South Hills Area Gifted Teachers’ Committee. Tom Yochum, Upper St. Clair gifted education coordinator, creates many of the Battle of the Books questions and emcees the event annually.

Months of reading, book discussion, and preparation go into the event. More than 40 Upper St. Clair students read this fall’s novels.

“I’m happy for the students who placed, but truly proud of everyone involved,” Yochum said. “Teenage schedules are incredibly demanding these days and to devote time to reading several additional novels and to enjoy discussing them is something that

should encourage us all.”

In total, 15 high school teams and 30 middle school teams from more than 25 school districts came together to celebrate literature and hold a Battle of the Books. Teams traveled through the library, collaborating on short stories, creating book sculptures and competing in team trivia.

This year’s theme was books that have been adapted for television or the movies.

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PHOTOS: BRAD HUNDT/OBSERVER-REPORTER

One of the residents of Chelsea Geist’s classroom at Canon-McMillan High School is a gecko.

Managing a menagerie

Chelsea Geist, who teaches environmental science and zoology at Canon-McMillan High School, shows off one of the 70 animals housed in her classroom.

Zoology class at Canon-Mac allows students hands-on work with animals

By Brad Hundt Staff writer

bhundt@observer-reporter.com

NORTH STRABANE-When summertime or holidays roll around, most teachers have the luxury of steering clear of the school buildings where they spend their working days.

That’s not the case for Chelsea Geist.

The environmental science and zoology teacher at Canon-McMillan High School will head into the building when it’s otherwise quiet to tend to the menagerie of animals kept in her classroom.

Cages and aquariums have to be cleaned, and a rabbit, gecko and tiny fish have to be fed.

“I’m here all the time,” Geist said.

Geist’s classroom is much more lively than the science classrooms that her students’ parents or grandparents probably knew. Rather than just a periodic table of elements on the wall and a beaker here and there, about 70 animals are housed within the classroom’s walls. Geist has gotten some donations, but for the most part she has purchased them herself for a zoology course that has been offered at the high school since 2011. A turtle makes its slow way around one tank, and a lizard passes the time in another. There’s a guinea pig, too, and a snake.

“Everything in here is pretty exotic,” Geist explained.

“It’s real life. It’s hands-on.”

Thomas Orr, an assistant principal at the high school, said that when he and other people his age were in high school, “We learned science out of a book. Science is different nowadays. It’s getting hands-on, to think and investigate and create. I think the internet has opened things up. It’s an active class. Most kids love to care for animals.”

Aside from providing an opportunity to get an upclose look at creatures that are not a dog or a cat, zoology courses offer insights into basic ideas about biology, anatomy, ecology and genetics. Students who successfully complete the zoology course at Canon-Mac can receive four college credits through Pittsburgh’s Carlow

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A turtle, above, and a snake, below, in the zoology class at Canon-McMillan High School.

Tessa Frazier, a junior at Canon-McMillan High School, with the rabbit used in the school’s zoology class.

A sign in Chelsea Geist’s classroom at Canon-McMillan High School.

University and its College in High School program.

Some students who have passed through the zoology course have gone on to careers in the field. Emily Falascino took the course when it was first offered at the high school, and it helped propel her toward a career in zoology. She now works at Zoo Miami in Florida, where she is an animal care specialist and mostly works with reptiles.

Falascino explained that she

had always been interested in working with animals, and had been considering whether to be a veterinarian or a zoologist. Taking Geist’s zoology class at Canon-Mac helped settle the question for her.

“I’d been super interested in the field of zoology since I was a kid,” she said. Falascino ended up majoring in zoology at Ohio State University and working in Minnesota before making her way to Miami.

She also pointed out that students who aren’t necessarily aiming for a career in zoology or anything to do with animals can find value in a zoology course.

“You can understand how the smallest algae can make the biggest difference in your day,” she said.

And at least one student at the high school right now is considering a zoology career.

Tessa Frazier, a junior, said she hopes to study more about zoology once she reaches college.

“We get to hold the animals,” she explained. “I love caring for the animals.”

sports

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the almanac

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DECEMBER 31, 2023

PHOTOS: ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC

The Peters Township boys and girls golf teams captured PIAA championships with record-setting performances in 2023. The Indians also won WPIAL team titles in boys and girls golf this fall.

Memorable moments 2023 was a year of firsts 2023 marked a significant calendar year for scholastic sports. Area teams accomplished feats never performed in their high school’s history. In compiling The Almanac’s annual sports year in review, that theme emerged. 2023, indeed, was a year of firsts.

No school flashed the No. 1 symbol and hoisted championship trophies more than Peters Township as the Indians achieved milestones in football, golf and boys basketball.

Peters Township sports, thus, ranked at the top when rating the past year’s highlights.

Muscle and finesse

Under TJ Plack, the Indians powered their way to their first ever WPIAL championship in football. After ripping through the conference competition, Peters Township blasted Pine-Richland, 43-17, on Nov. 18 at Norwin High School stadium and captured the Class 5A title. Almanac MVP Nolan DiLucia completed 14 of 25 passes for 184 yards and three scores while also running for a 39-yard touchdown in the triumph.

The Indians went on to win their first PIAA playoff games, beating Cathedral Prep, 33-14, in the quarterfinals and Cocalico, 14-9, in the semifinals.

Peters Township made its first appearance in a state championship game when the Indians faced Imhotep Charter in the final played Dec. 8 at Cumberland Valley High School in Mechanicsburg.

Though the Indians succumbed to the Panthers, 3813, they compiled their best record ever. Their 15-1 campaign featured five shutouts and the best defense in the WPIAL, allowing just 10 points per game.

On the links, Peters Township crafted championships in record fashion as both the girls and boys squads captured their first PIAA titles on Oct. 18.

After three consecutive runner-up performances, the Lady Indians won the Class AAA title, carding a score of 231 on the 5,201-yard par 72 Blue Course at Penn State. Ellie Benson led the way, card-

Peters Township players celebrate after receiving the WPIAL trophy for winning the Class 5A football championship with a 42-17 win over Pine Richland. The Indians finished their historic season with an appearance in the PIAA state finals and a 15-1 record.

Logan St. John Klette

ing a 1-over 73, one shot away from medalist honors, as the Indians edged Manheim Township by four strokes.

Brooke Vowcheck followed with a 78. Amelia Severns and Gabby Catalogna also contributed to the victory.

The PT boys fired a record 284 on the 6,141-yard course and that 4-under par score enabled them to slip past LaSalle College, which shot a collective 286.

At the district level, the Indians dominated as the boys won their seventh WPIAL team title by seven strokes over runner-up Butler, 371378, and the girls won their second straight banner by posting a 322 score, 29 strokes ahead of runner-up Seneca Valley during the Class AAA championships played Oct. 12 at Cedarbrook Golf Club in Belle Vernon.

While Peters Township celebrated its second straight PIHL hockey championship after thumping Upper St. Clair, 8-1, in the Class AAA final played March 20 at the UPMC

Lemieux Sports Complex, the Indians dominated the basketball arena. For the first time in 14 years, they returned to the WPIAL finals. Though the top-seeded Indians battled tooth and nail, they fell to Penn Hills, 70-65, in the Class 5A title game played March 2 at the Petersen Events Center on the University of Pittsburgh campus. Brendan McCullough fired in 19 points while Jack Dunbar, and Nate Miller chipped in 15 and 11 tallies.

While the PT icers finished runner-up, losing to LaSalle, 7-3, in the state finals played March 25 at the RMU Island Sports Center, the PT netters reached the state quarterfinals in basketball for the first time since 1997. In overtime, the Indians lost to Exeter, 7572, on March 17 at Bald Eagle High School and finished the season at 24-5 overall.

Smash hits

Bethel Park dominated the scholastic scene in 2023 with record-breaking performances on the tennis courts.

The Lady Hawks captured their first WPIAL team title when they blanked North Allegheny, 5-0, in the Class AAA match played Oct. 18 at the Janet L. Swanson Tennis Center on the Washington and Jefferson College campus. Cami Fisher, Katie Peterson and Lily Sierka swept their singles matches while Emma Smith and MacKenzie Smock combined for a straight set victory, 6-1, 6-3, at No. 1 doubles and Julia Gobbie and Cassie Sierka won at No. 2 doubles, 7-6 (3), 6-4.

After going undefeated during the regular season and capturing a section title, Bethel Park earned the No. 1 seed in the Class AAA tournament and dispatched Norwin, 5-0, Upper St. Clair, 4-1, and Shady Side Academy, 3-2, to reach the finals.

The best season in the history of BP girls tennis came to an end Oct. 28 when the Lady Hawks lost, 3-2, to Conestoga in the PIAA team tournament played at the Hershey Racquet Club.

Individually, Lily Sierka and Cami Fisher became the first doubles duo in school history to capture a WPIAL title when they paired up to beat Elana Sobol and Rachel Nath from Shady Side Academy, 7-6 (3), 6-2 in the Class AAA final

played Oct. 5 on the North Allegheny High School courts.

On the boys side, Devin Collier made BP tennis history when he reached the finals in the WPIAL AAA singles tournament. The Bethel Park sophomore dropped a 6-2, 6-0 decision to Anthony Lounder of Moon in the finals played April 12 on his home courts. Collier also qualified for the PIAA championships played May 26-27 at the Hershey Racquet Club.

Lacey Hartman also put Bethel Park on the map when the freshman finished third all-around during the state gymnastics championships held Feb. 17-18 at AHN Arena on the Peters Township High School campus. Individually, she won the floor exercise, took bronze on the balance beam and placed eight on bars. She just missed placing in the vault.

Deuces wild

History came in pairs at Chartiers Valley High School as the Colts produced two state wrestling medalists and a championship tandem in tennis.

For the first time in school history, the Colts welcomed home a two-time state champion in Dylan Evans and a PIAA fourthplace medalist in Brady Joling.

Evans, who is currently a freshman at Pitt, won his second straight title with an ultimate tiebreaker decision, 3-2, against Shawn Taylor of West Allegheny in the finals held March 11 at the Giant Center in Hershey. Joling, who is wrestling at Davidson, earned a spot on the podium with a fourth-place finish, giving the Colts two PIAA medalist in one year for the first time.

Evans finished his scholastic career as the all-time winningest wrestler in school history with a 139-28 mark. He was a four-time WPIAL medalist and four-time Southwest Regional place winner.

Meanwhile, Liam Pedersen and Brendan Hallisey combined for CV’s first tennis title when they defeated Josh Havrilla and August Lawrence from Greater Latrobe, 6-2, 6-3, in the WPIAL Class AA doubles finals played April 26 at the Bethel Park High School courts.

Even though they have been a doubles team for only two weeks and drew a No. 9 seed in the two-day event, Pedersen and Hallisey opened action with 10-6 pro set wins against North Catholic’s tandem of Alex Garvey SEE YEAR PAGE B2

Bethel Park raised a WPIAL team trophy in girls tennis for the first time when the Lady Black Hawks blanked North Allegheny, 5-0, in the Class AAA final played Oct. 18 at the Mt. Lebanon players pile on each other in celebration after their victory over North AlJanet L. Swanson Tennis Center on the Washington and Jefferson College campus. legheny, 4-0, in the WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship game.

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• DECEMBER 31, 2023

Year FROM PAGE B1 and Justin Kontul then toppled the top-seeded duo of Sebastian Tan and Alex Quigley from Sewickley Academy to reach the semifinals, where they outlasted the South Park pair of Jonah Jasek and StevenDuing.

The duo, which competed in the PIAA championships held May 25-26 at the Hershey Racquet Club, helped the Colts finish fourth in the WPIAL Class AA team tennis tournament and earned a berth in the PIAA competition. It was the farthest a CV tennis team had advanced in tournament action.

Diamond darlings

After losing its first eight games, Mt. Lebanon turned the baseball season around and captured a WPIAL title and finished runner-up in the PIAA. On May 30, the Blue Devils and their ace David Shields etched their names into the record books when they blanked North Allegheny, 4-0, at Wild Things Park in Washington in the Class 6A championship game. The Blue Devils used a no-hit pitching performance by Shields and a two-run triple by Tanner Donati to secure their second straight District VII banner and sixth in school history.

A southpaw and Miami recruit, Shields needed just 71 pitches to topple the Tigers.

The Blue Devils then defeated Manheim Township, 4-1, Spring-Ford, 5-2, and Cedar Cliff, 7-2, to reach the PIAA finals where they dropped a 4-1 decision to Father Judge on June 17 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on the Penn State University campus. Shields, who could be drafted in June of 2024, scattered six hits, struck out eight and walked two before reaching the 100-pitch limit.

At the Class 5A level, Bethel Park’s quest for a record third straight state baseball championship ended when the Black Hawks dropped a 3-1 decision to Bonner-Prendergast in the quarterfinal round of the PIAA playoffs on June 8 at Big Spring High School in Newville. The Black

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sports

the almanac

Hawks won back-to-back PIAA titles in 2021 and 2022.

In 2023, Bethel Park captured a section banner and finished runner-up in the WPIAL after falling to Shaler, 10-1, in the Class 5A final on May 30 at Wild Things Park in Washington. The Titans went on to win the state championship.

Lions roar

It was a banner year at South Fayette as the Lions won team championships in soccer, ice hockey and girls basketball.

The Lions blanked Armstrong, 2-0, on March 21 at the UPMC-Lemieux Sports Complex then defeated Pennsbury, 7-4, on March 25 at RMU Island Sports Center to complete a season of firsts. The win over Armstrong earned the Lions their first PIHL banner and the triumph over Pennsbury netted them their first-ever state title in ice hockey.

Tyler Brandebura and Trevor D’Alesandro scored the goals in the win over Armstrong. With under three minutes to play, the Lions scored three, even-strength goals to beat Pennsbury. Wes Schwarzmiller scored the go-ahead goal before Nolan Murphy and Brayden Imler tacked on insurance tallies.

In soccer, South Fayette swept the Class 3A division when the Lions captured WPIAL titles on Nov. 4 at Highmark Stadium. Mia Deramo scored the game-winning goal with 1:55 remaining in double overtime to lift the girls to victory, 1-0, against Moon. Luke Gillen scored a hat trick as the boys breezed to victory, 4-2, against Hampton.

While the win marked the 19th time the boys hoisted the trophy, the triumph over the Tigers marked the first banner on the girls side.

In girls basketball, South Fayette celebrated its second straight WPIAL championship.

On March 4, the Lady Lions defeated Oakland Catholic, 64-49, at the Petersen Events Center to win the Class 5A trophy.

South Fayette’s most successful seasons came to an end on March 25 when the Lions lost to Archbishop Wood, 61-54, in the PIAA Class 5A

championship game played at the Giant Center in Hershey. It was the first appearance in a state final for the Lady Lions, who finished the season at 28-3 overall. In the state final loss, Eria Hall fired in a teamhigh 17 points followed by Leroux’s 10 markers.

Making a splash

Sylvia Roy of Mt. Lebanon dominated the district, state and national swimming scene. The University of Virginia recruit qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials to be held June 15-23 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. She will race in the 100 backstroke.

Her signature swim has also made her a champion on the local circuit as she won her second WPIAL title in that race as well as the 50-yard freestyle at the Class AAA championships held March 2-3 at the University of Pittsburgh’s Trees Pool.

Roy went on to win the 100yard back with a 53.28 time at the state meet held on March 18 at Bucknell University.

While North Allegheny won both the district and state team titles, Roy’s showing helped the Lebo ladies capture the runner-up trophy in the WPIAL. The Lebo boys placed third in the team standings and produced a gold medal in the 400-yard freestyle relay with the team of Andrei Tudorascu, William Stilley, Sangay Lama and Chase Dustevich.

Other individual standouts included Zoe Poe of South Fayette and Kaitlyn Connors of Upper St. Clair.

Connors won her third straight WPIAL title in the 100 free with a time of 50.64. Poe toppled the defending champion in winning the 500 free.

She dropped 13 seconds off her seeded time and won the race in 4:58.27, ahead of Lexi Sundgren from North Allegheny, who clocked a 5:01.35.

Meanwhile, Josh Matheny excelled on the world-wide level. The Upper St. Clair native earned a spot on the United States swim team that participated in the 2023 World Aquatics Championships held July 14-30 in Japan. By securing second places in the 100and 200-meter breaststroke

races, he clinched his position on the national roster.

Matheny contributed to Team USA’s medal counts with preliminary performances in the top three finishing relays. Matheny took gold in the men’s 4x100-meter medley relay and bronze in the mixed 4x100-meter medley relay. Individually, he was seventh in the 100 with a 59.45 time and sixth in the 200 with a 2:09.04 mark.

Fleet feet

Logan St. John Kletter of Mt. Lebanon dominated in both cross country and track on a local, regional and national level this year. A North Carolina recruit, she placed in both the regional and national Foot Locker cross country championships after winning the PIAA state title as well as her second consecutive WPIAL crown.

On Nov. 4, the senior clocked an 18:13 time to win the Class AAA division in the state championships at Penn State. On Oct. 26 at White Oak Park, she finished first in the WPIAL championships with a 17:47.4 time. The performance helped contribute to Lebo’s second-place showing in the team standings.

St. John Kletter’s triumphs came on the heels of a stellar spring in which she grabbed the gold and lowered the PIAA record in winning the 3,200-meter race in 10:12.86.

She also medaled, taking sixth place in the 1,600 event. St. John Kletter was a double winner in those races during the WPIAL track and field championships held May 17 at Slippery Rock University. She sailed through the 1,600 with a personal best time of 4:47.09 and won the 3,200 in 10:34.49, finishing the second half of the race in 5:02.41.

Dani Prunzik from Upper St. Clair was also a double winner at the WPIAL track and field finals. The Penn State freshman won her third straight title in the 100-meter dash with a personal-best time of 11.7, which ranks ninth on the district’s all-time list. Prunzik also won the 200 dash in 24.53.

South Fayette’s boys 3,200 relay team of Roman Galio-

to, Alaa-Eddine Guetari, Tim Danziger and Jake Borgesi set a blistering pace in winning the Class 3A title in 7:57.22 while Lebo’s foursome of Tim Calvetti, Rocky Fennel, Matt Nyugen and Connor Rychcik breezed to victory in the 4x100 relay with a new school record time of 42.14.

Silver sticks

The Mt. Lebanon girls and the South Fayette boys took home silver medals in lacrosse while the Lebo boys captured their fifth WPIAL title in program history.

On May 25 at Robert Morris University’s Joe Walton Stadium, the Blue Devils defeated Shady Side Academy, 10-8, in the Class AAA boys championship match.

Fred Lasota dominated the stat sheet. The junior scored Lebo’s first four goals.

A five-goal run gave the Blue Devils the lead for good, 9-7, with 5:22 to play. Luke Prezioso and Joseph Hetz had a pair of goals in the stretch while Brady Westbrook sandwiched in the other tally. Miles Halter recorded two assists during the scoring spree. Keegan Green, Sullivan Kish and Westbrook also chalked up assists.

The Blue Devils finished 19-4 overall after falling to Radnor, 15-8, in a PIAA quarterfinal game played on June 10 at Frederick Field in Memorial Park in Mechanicsburg.

Meanwhile, the Lebo ladies dropped a 13-12 decision to Pine-Richland in their championship match. In the losing effort, Addie Murdoch scored five times and collected two assists. Tegan Hoover had a hat trick while Quinn Murdoch supplied two tallies.

Morgan Daniels completed the goal scoring.

South Fayette lost its first match of the season in the Class AA boys’ final played May 24.

The Lions were vying for their first WPIAL title in program history but succumbed to Mars, 16-7. Drew Welhorsky led the South Fayette attack with a hat trick. Spence Hondru (2), Dom Oliastro and Raj Sainani completed the goal scoring.

Wrestling great

Nino Bonaccorsi made history when the Bethel Park

native became an NCAA wrestling champion. On March 18 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Okla. He defeated Tanner Sloan from South Dakota State, 5-3, to win the 197-pound title.

Bonaccorsi became the first NCAA champion in the University of Pittsburgh’s history since Kevin Gavin won the 174-pound weight class in 2008. Gavin serves as the current coach of the Panthers.

A three-time ACC champion and two-time NCAA finalist, Bonaccorsi finished the season at 21-0. His NCAA tournament wins also included triumphs against Max Shaw from North Carolina, 10-1; Owen Pent from North Dakota State, 8-2, Silas Allred from Nebraska, 5-3, and Ethan Laird from Rider, 10-4.

Panther pride

Upper St. Clair added hardware to its trophy case in 2023 as the Panthers produced a champion in frisbee, a runner-up in girls basketball and a runner-up in golf.

USC edged North Allegheny, 12-11, in overtime to win the ultimate frisbee championship match held at Duquesne University. This marked the first team title for the Panthers in its nearly two-decade history. USC boasted a 10-1 overall record.

For the third year in a row, USC lost its bid for a basketball banner, falling to North Allegheny, 71-45, in the Class 6A final played March 3 at the Petersen Events Center. USC, which posted a 70-21 record during that span, was the undefeated section champion and finished 23-4 overall after falling to undefeated Cedar Cliff, 39-22, in a PIAA quarterfinal game played March 17 at Altoona.

It was the farthest any USC team advanced since the Lady Panthers won a state crown in 1999.

In golf, Connor McKenzie finished runner-up in the WPIAL AAA division during the final round of action played Oct. 2 at Valley Brook Country Club. The 16-year-old sophomore carded a two-day total of 147 to finish five strokes off the winning pace set by two-time champion Nick Turowski from Penn-Trafford.

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sights&sounds the almanac

•

DECEMBER 31, 2023 • B3

PERSEVERANCE

Restaurants rebound after pandemic years

By Rick Shrum

For the Observer-Reporter rshrum@observer-reporter.com

For the better part of four years, “scratch” has been the operative word at V&V Scratch Kitchen.

“Things were scary for the whole world,” said Martin Lamarche, reflecting on the perils the pandemic wrought on humankind, especially his family, friends and the Union Township restaurant he and his wife, Kristin, own and operate.

“When you look at the world, it changed and robbed from us. Other (dining) places were closing, but we wouldn’t let the troubles make us forget what we were doing. We owed it to everyone to fight and claw to beat adversity.”

Scratching and clawing became a lifestyle in early 2020, featuring a global population striving to fend off a deadly disease and countless businesses trying to avoid shutdown – some unsuccessfully.

The restaurant industry, in particular, has taken multiple hits over that time – from indoor dining restrictions; consumers reluctant to eat out; supply-chain challenges; and more contemporarily, higher food prices that are passed on to grousing customers.

Oh, and the all too common staffing shortages.

Scratching and clawing – and perseverance – however, appear to be paying off for restaurants and owners in Washington, Greene and Fayette counties – and elsewhere – according to owners and employees at five local establishments.

For V&V, it has been “V as in victory,” which transitioned to take-out shortly after the pandemic commenced.

“We’ve tried every excuse to make it through,” said

OBSERVER-REPORTER

Kristin and Martin Lamarche, who are shown in this 2019 file photo, are co-owners of V&V Scratch Kitchen in Union Township.

Martine (pronounced Marteen) Lamarche. “In different ways, crowds are coming back.” We offer way more take-out, way more sandwiches, way more entrees, But it’s been a lot of fun.”

He credits Kristin for finding the location where they launched their operation in May 2018, named for their children, Vincent and Vivien, and appreciates the local backing they have received.

“My wife’s strength has enabled us to survive an onslaught, which is what the pandemic was. And the community has embraced us in ways we never imagined.”

Operations manager Kristen Stimmell likewise is gratified by how Ye Olde Kopper Kettle Restaurant has navigated the turbulent waters of restaurant operations.

“We definitely had struggles, but I feel we waded through the

pandemic better than we could have anticipated,” she said Tuesday afternoon from inside the South Strabane Township dining destination.

Kopper Kettle, which offers indoor and outdoor dining, lost that when Gov. Tom Wolf mandated shutdowns of restaurants during the early pandemic. The facility, however, responded quickly to provide take-out orders.

Stimmell, daughter of owner Debra DiStefano, admitted that the restaurant along Route 40 “experienced a lot of challenges” maintaining a sufficiently sized staff of employees.

Worker shortages forced operators to close on many Mondays and Tuesday in 2021, at a location that traditionally was open all seven days.

Yet management persevered. “We have maintained the majority of our serving

PHOTO COURTESY OF YE OLDE KOPPER KETTLE

Ye Olde Kopper Kettle’s operations manager Kristin Stimmell, left, and her mother, owner Debra DiStefano, persevered during the pandemic.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADI KARAMCHETI

Manager Belisario Madrid, left, and co-owner Adi Karamcheti oversee operations at La Calera Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill in Peters Township.

staff throughout and have been able to keep all employees employed during the pandemic,” Stimmell said. “Just in the last couple of months, we’ve been able to maintain a full staff – front and back.”

Kopper Kettle also has resumed daily dining operations.

Menu selections are subject to rising prices, especially items such as seafood. “Anyone who shops in a grocery store experiences the same thing,” Stimmell said. “We’re not simply providing a product, but services and experience. We consult with our food purveyor to determine price increases.”

Lavern’s Restaurant in Morgan Township likewise has endured struggles, but has rebounded, said Tara Tennant, a longtime employee.

“I feel like things have gotten better since (the early part of) the pandemic, but we’re maybe not at full capacity. We have a decent size, 20 tables plus a bar.”

Lavern’s is a family-style establishment owned by Lavern Thistlewaite, a 90-yearold restaurateur, who still offers carry-out. Tennant said its clientele is largely made up of older couples and families, some of whom were concerned about dining out a few years ago. “Some came back, some didn’t wait around.

That was a bad time here.”

Tennant said sandwiches are popular at Lavern’s, along

with cheeseburgers, stuffed chicken, meatloaf, ham and “big salads.”

“We try to keep prices lower because we’re geared for an older crowd. We did end up raising them about a year or two after COVID (arrived), but since then they’ve been the same. Lavern hadn’t changed the menu for years and years. Burgers were $4; they’re now closer to $6.”

Staffing, Tennant said, has been an issue at Lavern’s as well. “It’s hard to find help,” she said. “My main concern is getting people to apply and getting them to stay. Our staff is at 14. As long as nobody gets sick ... There have been days when we had to shut down because someone was sick.”

Adi Karamcheti of East Washington opened La Calera Mexican Restaurant Bar and Grill in Peters Township on Valentine’s Day 2022 – about halfway through the pandemic. So the breadth of issues he has encountered isn’t as large. Yet he has had a few..

“Finding employees is the biggest legacy of the pandemic,” he said. Karamcheti and the restaurant, however, have benefited from having residential units at the back of the restaurant building, alleviating a housing issue for some. Ten are employed there.

“Our costs are with getting employees and retaining them. We’ve increased pay,

which affects our bottom line.

That is a challenge.”

Food prices have been a challenge at La Calera as well.

“They’re not going down like we saw before,” Karamcheti said. “But they’ve stabilized and are coming down a little.

We take that as a positive.”

Another positive is that a second La Calera has opened, in Baldwin Borough.

The pandemic’s effects on restaurant operations have, indeed, been a mixed bag.

Ben Fileccia, senior vice president of strategy and engagement for the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association, said, “We did see a lot closures during the pandemic and afterward.

But what is astounding and outstanding is the number of places projected to close did not materialize. We’re happy to see how many survived.”

He added that “crowds have returned” and that in Southwestern Pennsylvania and nationwide, “restaurant sales hitting same levels as 2019.”

But, he added, there are caveats. “We’ve hit that number because in some places, costs have risen because labor and goods have gone up.

“Revenues have hit 2019 levels, but restaurants are not making as much as they did in 2019. The traditional profit margin is 2% to 7%, but costs of all operating costs are up in the Pittsburgh region.”

A sweetheart dinner dance will be held from 5 to 11 p.m. Feb. 17.

SH WOMEN

Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter. Visit www.peterstownship.com to register or sign up in person. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers). Call 724942-5000 for more details.

what’s happening CHABAD EVENTS The Chabad of the South Hills rings in the new year with the following activities: Babyccino — This chic meet for moms and tots will be held Sundays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Jan. 14, 21 and 28. Participants learn about the four holy cities in Israel through music, movement, arts, sensor and heaps of play. Fee is $12 per class or $30 for all three sessions.

Email hindy@chabadsh. com for more details.

Register at chabadsh.com/ babyccino Bowl for Israel — Students in grades 6-8 can participate in this event being held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Jan. 14. Fee is $15 and includes a pizza dinner. For every 10 points bowled a dollar will be

donated to support Israel.

RSVP tohttp://chabadsh. com/CTEENJR. Location will be given upon registration Advice for Life: The Rebbe’s Advice for Leading a More Purposeful Life. This multimedia course will be held 7:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays beginning Jan. 31 and running through March 6 at Chabad or online. Register at Chabadsh.com or email rabbi@chabadsh.com

FLEA MARKET The Church of the Atonement, 618 Washington Ave. in Carnegie, will hold a flea market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 19 and 20.

On Saturday, the event will close from noon until 1 p.m. to prepare for the bag sale.

Only if necessary, a snow

date will be added Jan. 21 from noon to 2 p.m. Items for sale will be used books, jewelry, puzzles, purses, winter coats, ladies clothing petite sizes 4, 6, 8, and regular size 12-14 blouses.

Call 412-276-0366 for more details.

SH ELKS The South Hills Lodge No. 223, located on South Park Road in Bethel Park, gives away free quarts of soup from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays until supplies are gone. Additionally, the organization is collecting donations for homeless veterans. Kitchen, bedding, laundry and bath supplies can be delivered to the lodge.

A fish fry will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Jan. 12. Eat in or take-out is available.

Call 412-831-0616 for details on any of these activities.

COIN CLUB The South Hills Coin Club will meet at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Bethel Park municipal building, located at 5100 West Library Ave. All members and the general public can attend. The meeting’s program will discuss the upcoming coin show to be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Feb. 3 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel & Suites located at 164 Fort Couch Rd. in Bethel Park. There will be 20-plus dealers buying gold and silver coins and currency. Call 724-984-66111 for more information.

The South Hills Women’s Club will meet at 8 p.m. Jan. 8 at Vanadium Woods Lobby, 50 Vanadium Road in Bridgeville. Following a brief meeting, there will be the annual White Elephant Gift Exchange. Bring a wrapped gift (funny, regift, or fine antique) and have fun while getting to know the group.

Refreshments and dessert will be served. New members and guests interested in attending should call Sue at 412-953-3209.

PT REC The Peters Township recreation center will offer Social Media 101 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Jan. 11 for ages 55 and over as an introduction to apps such as Facebook,

PICKLEBALL The Peters Township recreation center will offer pickleball classes beginning Jan. 9. Six- week classes for beginners will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesdays and 11 to noon on Thursdays or 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays for advanced beginners. A drill clinic for intermediate and advanced players will be held from noon to 1 p.m.

Thursdays beginning Jan. 11. Fees are $120 ($180 nonmembers). Register at www.peterstownship.com or call 724-942-5000 for more details.

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CALL 724.222.2200 TO PLACE AN AD IN THE CLASSIFIEDS OR EMAIL ORCLASS@OBSERVER-REPORTER.COM

Health & Fitness

Caregiver

Cemetery Plots

Caregiver IN NEED OF CARGIVER?

Corner of Rt. 19 and Cameron Road, Washington, PA 724-28-4568 www.progressivemobility.com

25+ years experience. Any/All daily living/cargiving needs.

Light cleaning if needed. Flexible to all needs.

Transportation to Doctor’s appointments, etc...

Overnights are available.

Call Colleen 412-310-6460

Miscellaneous

Fast, Friendly Service Competitive Pricing Free Delivery

724-222-0900

400 Jefferson Avenue Washington, PA 15301

* Work Injuries * Shoulder Pain * Sports Medicine * Balance and Dizziness 480 Johnson Road Washington, PA 724-223-2061

* Work Injuries * Shoulder Pain * Sports Medicine * Balance and Dizziness 480 Johnson Road Washington, PA 724-223-2061

Lost & Found

Drover’s Inn 1001 Wash. Pike Wellsburg 304-737-0188 droversinn1848.com GLORIA HORN SEWING STUDIOS Machines on sale!

Free classes with purchase.

Service & Repair 300 Castle Shannon Blvd., Mt. Lebanon. 412-344-2330.

splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me where you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech You from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand Your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee. Say this prayer 3 times a day for 3 consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you.

Grateful Thanks. T.H.

Vocelli Pizza

Lost off I-70/Eighty Four exit.

Missing since December 1.

Please call 724-678-9482 with any sightings.

Miscellaneous Countryside Frame Shop 40 E. Wheeling St. Wash.

724-222-7550 www.CountrysideFrame.com

Insurance

Day Insurance Great Rates on CDs Insurance Life, Home & Auto 329 E. Maiden St.Wash.

724-228-3448 dayinsurance.com Megan Chicone State Farm Agent 807 E. McMurray Road 724-731-0700 www.meganchicone.com

Tom Yakopin, Agent/Owner 1100 Washington Road, Washington 724-228-7187 westpennhealth.com

Cemetery Plots

Help Wanted

German Shorthaired Pointer, 13-year-old female, brown with white ticking and grey muzzle. Wearing collar with tag. DO NOT CHASE.

Edward Jones Investments Wash. 724-250-2990 www.edwardjones.com

Bob Hollick State Farm - Providing Insurance & Financial Services. 724-222-5600 www.bobhollick.com PRAYER TO THE Britney Hollick BLESSED VIRGIN State Farm - Providing (Never Known to fail).

Insurance & Financial Oh most beautiful flower of Services. 412-833-4109 Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, britney@hollickinsurance.com

Canonsburg, McMurray, Mt. Lebanon, Finleyville Online Ordering www.vocellipizza.com

LOST DOG

Investment Opportunities

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY

MOTOR ROUTE

Bulger-Burgettstown Route #312 Approx. $1,150/mo.

2 1/2 hours

6 days per week-

CEMETERY LOTS (4) - Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray, Lily of the Valley section. Four in a row, includes 2 crypts, and 2 markers. $5,000. 724-809-3350 or 724-267-2849 Cemetery plots (1) Forest Lawn Garden, Five Flags, includes vault, marker, opening and closing $7,000 or best offer 724-747-9234 CEMETERY PLOTS (4 plots) Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, located in “Garden of the Virtues”, will subdivide. $2,000

412-221-0956

Sunday Off Contact: Garry Check 724-970-0373

Cemetery Plots (2) Section 6 side by side, Mt . Lebanon cemetery asking $5,500 includes deed transfer fee 412-889-5026

Subscribe to The Almanac 724-949-1208 724-222-2200

www.the almanac.net

FOREST LAWN GARDEN- Lilly Garden Lot 95 Sec A pace 1 - 2 $4,000 for both 727-222-7574 FOREST LAWN GARDENS, McMurray. One double-depth lawn crypt in Last Supper, with granite headstone. $7,500. 724-413-4796 FOREST LAWN GARDENS One double depth companion crypt in Garden of Devotion. Two vaults, two interment fees, with granite headstone. $5,400 (includes transfer fee). 724-825-5139 MT. LEBANON CEMETERY PLOTS - 1 privately owned, $1,850; 1 military owned by cemetery. For information, call 724-201-0412.

TWO MAUSOLEUM CRYPTS St. Agatha’s Cemetery, Section 300B, Row: End, Level Prayer 1. $8,500 for both, includes opening and closing, transfer fees and crypt plates. Call 724-992-2494

Dogs GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPS Registered, males, top quality Shots. Health guarantee. $800. 724-998-7231

Miscellaneous A.T.V. COZ tire repair kit state of the art $30 724-366-9524 BED FRAME Double. New condition. $20.

724-942-4389 Bedroom set twin complete, 2 dressers, night stand, bed mattress and box springs $150 724-809-3998 Bench Grinder 5 inch Black & Decker $30 724-366-9524 Bomber coat ladies with real gray fox collar size medium $50 724-366-9524 Boombox AM, FM, CD like new $35 412-341-1571 Candolier 3 light set of 2, Antique, orange bulbs $20 pair 4112-953-1320 Cell phone Mitsubishi Vintage 3000SPK and accessories $40 412-973-1820 CHINA CABINET - Antique, large, solid oak. Nice condition. $300. 724-926-3023 CHINA - Compton Syracuse Turina pattern, 12 five-piece settings. Never used. $30/set. 724-396-5457 CHINA - Lenox, Maywood pattern, twelve 5-piece settings. $50/set.

Never used 724-396-5457 CHRISTMAS DECOR - wooden deer 35” high will send picture $30 724-513-9390 CHRISTMAS TREE 4 1/2’, needs little space $45 724-513-9390 CHURCH PEWS - Four, 12-foot church pews. Good condition. $80 each. 724-809-3998 CHURCH PEWS - Two, 4-foot church pews. Good condition. $50 each. 724-809-3998

It’s simple...

Miscellaneous COAT - Ladies, black leather, size small. Perfect condition. $40. 724-222-5098 DESSERT MAKER - Yonanas Deluxe Health, collapsible bowls, spatula, recipes. Unopended. $20. 724-809-5746 Dressers (2) 1 long has a mirror and other is tall $60 724-809-3998 DRYER - Electric GE, heavy duty, extra large capacity. Great condition; just service checked. $250. 724-926-3023 DRYER - Electric Whirlpool / Kenmore, heavy duty, super capacity.

Great condition. $250. 724-926-3023 EDGER - Southland SWLE0799. Won’t start. Includes unused replacement parts. As is. $100. 412-535-3744 Electric Meat slicer $60 724-947-3807 Faucet, bathroom single handle chrome, 2 $20 each 412-953-1320 Fisher Price Rocking Tunes Giraffe with lights and music $28 412-953-1320 Flooring Laminate 12mm Med hickory 24.40 sq. feet $40 412-370-4870 HEATER - Electric fireplace, 25”, with entertainment stand $300 or best offer 724-396-5457 Honeywell True Hepa for allergies $125 412-341-1571 Husqvarna 42” Triple Bagger System for tractor $230 412-973-1820 JEEP RENEGADE T-SHIRT large, fluorescent orange and green. $20. 412-535-3744 KENMORE GAS DRYER-Good condition. Drop down hamper door. $180 412-997-4571 KORG Personnal keyboard 36 keys, owners manual, beginners learning guide $560 724-745-2901 LADDER - 27-foot aluminum extension ladder. Great shape. Very seldom used. $75. 412-221-3945

Miscellaneous Metal Antique Pepsi cooler Blue $50 724-947-3807 MOBILITY SCOOTER - Rascal brand, 10 speed and reverse, 2 baskets. Older model but never used. $600. 412-831-3445 MOUNTAIN BIKE - Roadmaster, 26”, 18-speed, woman’s. Excellent. Includes helmet. $80 724-747-5345 Movie Projector Bell and Howell Director Series $125 412-835-2972 NECK TRACTION DEVICE - Sanders brand, adjustable. New with carrying case. $300. 412-271-9343 OIL - Pennzoil Platinum Synthetic Oil, SAE 5W30. 11 quarts unopened. $50. 412-535-3744 PET CARRIER Medium size. Like new. $20. 724-942-4389 Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl 14 Post Gazette $12 724-809-5746 Plumbing tools - Apollo 5 valve backflow test gauge or Hot Shot 320 thaw machine with extra cables $500 each 412-951-5734 PURSE - Ivanka Trump brand, large, cream color. $20 724-986-0478 Reel to Reel Teac A-2300SX $250 412-835-2973 Refrigerator small cube style $40 724-926-3023 REMOTE CONTROL TRUCKS (2) 1 Duratrax Warhead EVO Nitro and 1 Traxxas Revo Nitro, plus lots of parts. $600 for both.

412-849-6903.

Roberto Clemente photos picture cube, 12 photos 10” side by side $25 724-809-5746

RUN TILL SOLD!

Sell Your Merchandise $301 & up for just $19.99* (*for 3 lines) It’s easy to place your ad.

Call:

724-222-2200

Lamp brass with shade gold/cream flowers, 28”h $45 412-953-1320 LAWNBOY GRASS BAG ATTACHMENT - for Platinum mower. Used. $20. 412-535-3744 Lawn spreader used once 724-809-3998

$40

Lionel Train set New in Box N.Y. Central Model Paid $170 Sell $70 412-638-3351 Manual Typewriter Royal $30 412-835-2972 Massager, chair Shiatsu, Heat and 3 intensity settings $55 412-370-4870 MEAT GRINDER Manual, heavy duty. $50. 724-947-3807 Men’s black suit like new, jacket 42S, pants 35 x 30 $50 724-229-7153

Fax:

724-222-3982 Email:

orclass@observer-reporter. com

Mail:

Observer Publishing Co. 122 South Main St. Washington, PA 15301 Attn: Classified Dept.

DEADLINE: THURS. 10 A.M. SCOOTER - Quantum motorized scooter.

New battery, new control arm. Excellent condition. $250. 724-947-3807 SHOWCASES $100 or best offer.

724-228-3278 Singer Sewing Machine, Fabric, Quit Books $400 O/B/O 724-966-2265 Skill 18V 3/8” drill, 2 batteries/ charger with case $30 724-942-4389

We just market your home better.

Now serving Washington, Greene and Westmoreland Counties

Washington 724-206-2300 • Rostraver 724-852-1069

New Year, New Home!

CLARKSVILLE

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP

BROWNSVILLE

W NE ING T S LI

Solid, three bedroom brick home on a nice lot with off street parking. Eat-in kitchen and large living room.

Plenty of room for everyone. Large wrap around deck (33x10) with access from parking area and living room. Views of Ten Mile creek, a great spot to enjoy nature and relax. Basement ready to finish for game room. Rough in bath in basement. Many updates, too many to name. Central A/C. A must see to appreciate. Definitely MOVE-IN ready.

Terry Lippencott 724-255-9703

$85,000

Location! Location! Country home sit on almost 2 acres in Frazier School District. Large master with ensuite and his & hers closets. Updated kitchen with new stone-coat epoxy countertops and hardwood floors. French doors open onto large 12x24 deck to enjoy nature. Home has updated electrical entrance, newer roof, siding, hot water tank, K-Rock skirting and more. Two secondary bedrooms feature large walk-in Jack & Jill closet. Large yard with firepit is perfect for cookouts and gatherings. Lower drive well road featuring an RV pad with full hookups.

Armand Ferrara 412-997-9701 Jamie Beckinger 724-503-5520

$154,900

Great starter or investment! 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath, 2 story. Living room & dining room have pretty deco fireplaces. First floor laundry. Walk-up attic.

Gas forced air heat and central air.

Terry Lippencott 724-255-9703

$29,900

SCOTT CAVINEE

MAGGIE COFFMAN

TERRY LIPPENCOTT

ARMAND FERRARA

JAMIE BECKINGER

MARY SMERECZNIAK

724-322-1983

mcoffman@swcrealty.com

tlippencott@swcrealty.com

ferrerabeckingerteam@swcrealty.com

ferrerabeckingerteam@swcrealty.com

msmereczniak@swcrealty.com

Broker of Record scavinee@swcrealty.com

412-977-5999

724-255-9703

412-977-9701

724-503-5520

724-454-9059

swcrealty.com

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DECEMBER 31, 2023

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Miscellaneous Solid oak table and 4 chairs, Vintage furniture $800 or best offer 412-531-9071 SONY Memorex boomboxes AM,FM, CD, Cassette like new $50 412-341-1571 Steeler Jacket Ladies X-Large Black $70 724-239-2930 Stereo Receiver Sansui 8080DB $250 412-835-2972 Thermastate for Kerasine/Electric Blow Heater $30 724-366-9524 TIMBER LOGS (7) On the ground, ready to transport.

Black Walnut and Hard Maple.

10-foot lengths - 24-inch average 3500-4000 BF. $2,000 or best offer. Call 724-941-9191 TRUCK GRILL For 2014 Toyota Takoma $100. 724-228-3278 Turntable Garrard Model 1225 $75 412-835-2972 Twim Firm Mattress and Box Spring $50 724-926-3023 Unprimed shellcase’s New Winchester CAL 220 Swift 70 piece $125 724-228-0109 Vicks Cool Mist Humidifier like new $40 412-341-1571 Vintage Beatles George Harrison VariVue Flicker plastic ring $75 724-809-5746 Weatherteck floor mats for 2014 Mustang $60 724-228-3278 WINE GLASSES - Bohemia GENEVE lead crystal, with gold trim. Two boxes of six. $30/box. 724-809-5746 WOODBURNING STOVE - Drolet Astral III, free-standing, 3.3 cu.ft. combustion chamber, non-catalytic, EPA certified. Burn time 10 hours, 20” logs. Used 3 months. Excellent condition. $1,000. 724-746-4261 Zippo Case’s small $50 724-228-3278

Carpet Sales

Builders/Remodelers

Builders/Remodelers

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS COMPLETE HOME REMODELING

Game rooms * Entrance Ways * Backsplashes * Countertops * Drywall * Wood Flooring Specializing in Ceramic Tile & Marble

No Job Too Small * Insured * Free Estimates * Reasonable www.gilbert-tile.com PA010192

Gilbert Tile (412) 341-5955

Painting

Painting Answers for 12-24 Puzzle

SAM’S PAINTING & WALLCOVERING Exterior Painting, Plaster and Drywall Repairs, Wallpaper Removal and Installation Insured • References • Free Estimates

412-853-9436

Plumbing

Plumbing

Trucks

Antiques/Classics

Chevy Dump Truck 1970, Model C-50, 366 v-8, 89,484 miles, inspected $ 3,500 412-833-5928

SUV’s Chevrolet 2002 Tracker Call for details $1,500 724-914-0888

Carpet Tile Hardwoods Vinyl 408 S. Main Street, Wash.

724-229-5330

Coal/Gas/Oil/Wood FIREWOOD

Well-seasoned, delivered. Half cord or face cord, which is a row of logs 4’ high and 8’ long, $140. Full cord or running cord, which is 2 rows of logs 4’ high and 8’ long, $220.

I will stack for free right off of truck, no carrying. 412-592-6634

FORD 2017 ESCAPE SE - 4x4, automatic, loaded, twin sunroof, backup camera. New inspection and emissions. 4-cylinder, 1.5 turbo. Runs great, looks great.

95,000 miles. $13,900.

724-413-0408

Appliances

CHEVROLET 1971 MALIBU 4-door, automatic, 62,000 miles, new tune-up, new tires, new exhaust system. Always garaged, no accidents. EXTREMELY CLEAN! Asking $12,950.

412-973-4665

Motorcycles HARLEY-DAVIDSON 2001 HERITAGE SOFTAIL Excellent condition.

Must See. $7,750.

Call 724-986-1453 (no texts please)

CLUES ACROSS 1. Bleated 6. Snakelike fish 9. Database management system 13. Russian-American violinist 14. Wendy’s founder Thomas 15. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 16. Negatives 17. Rescued 18. Self-immolation by fire ritual 19. Assigns tasks to 21. Island nation native 22. Trade 23. Detergent brand 24. Famed NY Giant 25. Before 28. Split pulses 29. Extremely angry; highly incensed 31. Body part 33. American state

36. David __, US playwright 38. Move one’s head slightly 39. Secret rendezvous 41. Improved 44. A place to exercise 45. 18-year astronomical period 46. Automobile 48. You can take it 49. A radio band 51. Jaws of an animal 52. Short-billed rails 54. Chinese province 56. Shameless and undisguised 60. Horizontal passage into a mine 61. Adult males 62. Fail to entertain 63. Dried-up 64. City in north-central Utah 65. Southern U.S. 66. German river 67. Oxygen 68. Make law

Hauling

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Hauling, Junk Removal & Demolition

• Pressure Washing • Painting • Flooring • Odd Jobs • More

Cleanouts, Light Demo, Interior Room Gutting

Reasonable Rates - References

Scrap Metal Removal

Reasonable Rates

INSURED - FREE ESTIMATES

INSURED - FREE ESTIMATES

Call or Text 724-328-1120 PA# 135568

References Available

Call or Text 724-328-1120 PA# 135568

South Hills Exteriors Gutter cleaning, screening, sealing and fastening, downspout replacement and repair.

Specialty Stores BEDILLION HONEY FARM

1179 Burgettstown Rd., Hickory

724-356-7713 bedillionhoneyfarm.com

Kauffmann Family Market Rt. 18 Atlasburg, PA 724-947-9682 www.kauffmanmarketplace.com

Springhouse Eatery & Creamery Country Store 1531 Rt. 136 Wash., PA 724-228-3339 springhousemarket.com Let us share a little of our farm with you!

4275 Washington Rd., McMurray 3400 S. Park Rd., Bethel Park www.millersace.com

INFINITY 2015 QX80 LIMITED V8, AWD, 7 passenger, 3rd row seating. Beautiful and perfect in every way, with only 76,660 miles!

Has absolutely all options; DVD player, BOSE, XM radio, driver assistance, technology package, navigation. Absolutely no rust, and always garage kept. Inspected through October 2024. Towing package, too, with 8,500 lb. towing capacity. Retail new over $90,000!

No accidents, R-Title. $29,995.

Text me for pictures.

Greg, 724-984-5368 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2004 Inline 6 cyl-4 liter, 4x4, power steering, power windows, A/C, good tires, inspected 9-2024,154k, $5,999 724-678-0231

HARLEY DAVIDSON 2001 Softail Deuce 2001 FXSTDI - Black, all original except V & H Big Shot pipes, power commander, K & N air filter and passenger back pad with small rack. 16,500 miles, good tires and newer battery, garage kept, one owner, excellent condition $6,700 or make offer.

724-941-8488 leave message and your call will be returned

HONDA 2012 CBR 600RR

Prime condition. Only 7,730 miles.

Yoshamira pipe, HIV headlights, flush mounted turn signals. $8,200 obo. 724-344-0659 SUZUKI 2008 Boulevard C109R 1800, 10,000 miles, Burgundy $4,795 724-255-9376 SUZUKI 2005 C50-800 Blue. 10,000 miles. $2,795. 724-255-9376

ATV’s

Full Insured - Free Estimates PA #044557

412-715-3210

All Around Fence Co. Pressure Treated Yellow Pine Posts 7896 National Pike Uniontown 724-439-0331 allaround@allaroundfence.com

LEXUS 2012 RX 350 AWD SUV 3.5L V-6 Engine, 1-owner, dealer serviced, inspected through July 2024. Leather heated front seats, ABS brakes, fog lights, 205,000 miles. $9,995 or best offer.

Please text 412-736-5864

Autos

Antiques/Classics

BMW 2004, 325XI all wheel drive, automatic, to many new parts to list, inspected until July 2024, call for more info $4,800 724-745-2491

Good shape, runs well. $10,000 invested; selling $4,700 724-929-5439

CADILLAC ALLANTE 1987

2016 FOREST RIVER FR3 28DS - 12,100 miles, sleeps 8, 3 TVs, bathroom, shower, kitchen appliances, Cummins generator, propane, 2 years of extended warranty remain on coach. $65,000.00 Text or call 724-350-5636

Parts & Accessories TIRES - 4 Bridgestone Blizzak SNOW tires (215/55R17) mounted on Lexus/Toyota wheels. Paid $851.31 for all. Fits 2007-2022.

Includes one summer tire and rim.

Asking $1,200 for all.

412-855-9666

CHEVY 1989 CAMARO IROC Z28 5.7 motor, T-tops, 70,000 original miles. Inspected, new tires, new brakes. $18,000. 724-267-3946

Air Conditioning / Heating

Trucks CHEVROLET 2013 SILVERADO 58,000 actual miles. $20,000. Still new. 724-810-6638, just off I-70 NO TEXTING

Motorcycles HARLEY DAVIDSON 2009 DYNA SUPERGLIDE - 17,000 miles, detachable windshield and bags, new tires, new battery, supertuner, python pipes. Many extras.

Excellent. $7,600. 412-217-8800

Email your ad to: classifieds@thealmanac.net

Concrete

Sale Priced

KEN’S TREE SERVICE Fully Insured Free Estimates

2016 MERCEDES CLS550 AWD SEDAN #P3261A, OBSIDIAN BLACK, V8, WHEEL PACKAGE, PREMIUM PACKAGE, DESIGNER CLASSIC LEATHER PACKAGE, DRIVERS ASSIST PACKAGE, 79,000 MILES ORIGINAL WINDOW STICKER $92,175, A BLACK BEAUTY

Sale Priced

Sale Priced

47,777

$

2017 LINCOLN MKC AWD “RESERVE”

#36331B, GUARD METALLIC, 3.5 ECOBOOST, XLT CHROME PACKAGE, TOW PACKAGE, SPRAY LINER, REVERSE SENSE, (4) NEW TIRES, NEVER SMOKED IN, ONLY 33,000 MILES, CLEANEST ONE IN TOWN!

Sale Priced

21,988

$

2023 GENESIS AWD G70 SEDAN

#35183A, SILVER RADIANCE, 3.0 V6 HYBRID, POWER PANO ROOF, NAVIGATION, ELEMENTS PLUS PACKAGE, CO-PILOT 360, TOW PACKAGE, REMOTE START, LANE KEEPING, LIST GOES ON, WE SOLD IT NEW, 50,000 MILES, IMPECCABLE

Sale Priced

Sale Priced

46,988

$

44,966

$

2020 LINCOLN CORSAIR AWD “RESERVE”

#P32580, INGOT SILVER, PANO ROOF, NAVIGATION, REMOTE START, LANE KEEPING, BLIND SPOT DETECT, ELEMENTS PACKAGE, REVEL AUDIO, 1-OWNER, 35,000 MILES, SHOWROOM SHAPE

Sale Priced

28,985

$

2018 LINCOLN MKZ AWD “RESERVE”

#P3226A, WHITE PLANTINUM, HEATED WHEEL, HEATED SEATING, MOONROOF, REMOTE START, NAVIGATION, BLIS, REVERSE SENSE, ONLY 34,000 MILES, SPOTLESS

#34389A, ALTA WHITE, 3.3T, SPORT ADVANCE PACKAGE, SPORT PRESTIGE PACKAGE, NAVIGATION, WIDE MOON ROOF, 5400 MILES, HEAD TURNER!

jdpeckconcrete.com

31,888

$

2020 LINCOLN AVIATOR AWD “GRAND TOURING”

#P32630, WHITE PLATINUM, 2.3 ECOBOOST, POWER PANO ROOF, NAVIGATION, CLIMATE PACKAGE, REMOTE START, REAR CAMERA, ONLY 41,000 MILES, SPECTACULAR!

Sale Priced

28,977

$

2018 FORD F-150 4WD “XLT” SUPER CAB

#P32030, INFINITE BLACK, V6, ELEMENTS PLUS PACKAGE, CO-PILOT 360, PANO ROOF, NAVIGATION, 3RD ROW SEAT, REMOTE START, WE SOLD IT NEW, 44,000 MILES, FULL SIZE LUXURY!

412-341-3000 PA.019223

Email your ad to: classifieds@thealmanac.net

28,988

$

2021 LINCOLN AVIATOR AWD “RESERVE”

Anything Concrete / Walls Free Estimates

412-329-8123 guyforthejob.com PA# 173681

38,777

$

#P3084A, OXFORD WHITE, 2.3 ECOBOOST, 310 HP, NAVIGATION, ADAPTIVE CRUISE, REAR CAMERA, ACTIVE VALVE PERFORMANCE, LIMITED SLIP, 8,500 MILES, MINT

CONCRETE WORK

GUY’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Tree Services

724-746-8733 (TREE)

2021 FORD MUSTANG PREMIUM COUPE

Shearer Heating-Cooling

CHEVROLET 1993 CAMARO Z28 Meticulously kept, 6-speed manual transmission, 383 LT1 stroker crate motor. MSD ignition professionally done. Many extras. Original engine goes with it, too. $21,000.

724-206-0267.

Kernan Asphalt Sealing Sealing, Maintenance Construction Services kernanasphalt.com 412-831-4847

#34-438A, PEARL WHITE, PANO ROOF, V6, NAVIGATION, APPLE CAR PLAY, 20” WHEELS, BOSE PREMIUM AUDIO, MUCH MORE, 2,200 MILES, BRAND NEW CONDITION

412-21-248 or 724-745-7422 www.colemanmitchell.com

Sales & Service “BIG On Service” 724-222-1830 or 724-745-3361 Shearerhvac.com

Rollier’s Hardware

We carry everything you nedd: Electric, Plumbing, Paint, Housewares, Lawn & Garden, Pets, Lumber.

Convenience Store & Seasonal 600 Washington Road Mt. Lebanon, PA 412-561-0922

2024 NISSAN MURANO AWD “SL”

Coleman Mitchell Heating & Cooling

CHEVY 2002 CAMERO 35th Anniversary Convertible - Rare find, just 1,398 produced. V6, 3800 200HP, automatic. Garage kept.

Just serviced. $17,000 or best offer. 724-883-4022 Chrysler Imperial 1990, very good condition, 70,000 miles $7,000 412-527-9245 2011 HONDA CR-V SE 147,000 miles, Good Condition $6,500 412-296-1064 MAZDA 2005 RXA COUPE 100,000+ miles. Needs inspected.

Fair condition. Needs a clutch. $1,500. 724-833-2277

PA#023168

South Hills Lincoln

Miscellaneous Jim Murray Auto Service, Inc. Full auto repair, inspections and more.

122 E. Railroad St. 15301 724-222-1350

412-897-6709

DRIVE A NEW YEAR RESOLUTION FROM...

Sale Priced

Stereo Radio, Records, Turntables, Amplifiers

Miscellaneous

Submit your Community events at www.thealmanac.net

RV’s for Sale

* * WANTED * * Old Sports Cards & Watches

• Experienced • Professional • Highest Quality • Guaranteed Work • Interior & Exterior • Insured Deakin Painting

Paving/Driveway

Miscellaneous

412-881-7926, Dave

ATV - 2021 Polaris 570 Premium, with 25 hours. $9,500 412-298-1257

Wanted to Buy

PAINTING & CARPENTRY

84 AGWAY Stop by and see us!

Not just a feed store anymore.

1025 Rt. 519, 84 PA 724-222-0600

I Do It All: Painting, Plumbing, Electrical & more. PA076865 Fully Insured.

Multiple Award Service.

Call Brian, 412-216-1098

FORD 2010 ESCAPE XLT 89,800 miles, one owner, garage kept, well maintained, V6, front wheel drive, Ford premium stereo with amp, premium seats, all mechanicals and runs well. $6,900.

724-228-7736

29. An act of undue intimacy 30. From which a later word is derived 32. Equal to 10 meters 34. Neither 35. Computer language 37. Sacred book of Judaism 40. A woolen cap of Scottish origin 42. A way to dedicate 43. Challenges 47. British Air Aces 49. Large, influential bank 50. Portended 52. Cavalry-sword 53. Vaccine developer 55. Napoleonic Wars general 56. Italian Seaport 57. Hip joint 58. __ Clapton, musician 59. Insect repellent 61. Decorative scarf 65. Delaware

Painting

General Services

SPICE IT UP HANDYMAN

Sprowls City Appliance 996 W. Chestnut St., Wash., PA 724-225-5760 www.sprowlscity.com

CLUES DOWN 1. Curved segment 2. Wings 3. From pentane (Chemistry) 4. Gradually gets into 5. Commercial document (abbr.)

6. Overhang 7. Christmas and New Year’s have them 8. Type of bulb 9. Lacking a plan 10. Tattle 11. Rockers like it “heavy” 12. One who’s been canonized 14. Indicate time and place 17. Nobel Prize winner in physics 20. The voice of Olaf 21. Fragmented rock 23. They __ 25. Master of Philosophy 26. Backside 27. Landmark house in L.A.

Sale Priced

23,495

$