Weathering the storm
By Jill Thurston Staff writer jthurston@observer-reporter.com
For some area pools, the early rain and cooler temperatures provided a setback to the start of the swim season until summertime heat moved in during late June along with drier weather.
June precipitation recorded by the National Weather Service (NWS) at the Pittsburgh International Airport was 5.57 inches compared to 2.5 inches in June 2024, up 3.07 inches over last year.
DeAnna Martin, Washington Park director, remembered having some concerns earlier in the season about attendance at the park pool.
“June started off and the weather was not great. We opened a little later than we usually do.” But by mid-summer, the numbers at the pool had outpaced 2024, much to her surprise.
The same proved true in neighboring Fayette County.
“Late May and early June were really rough,” said Joe Pindrock, township supervisor for Franklin Township regarding the Franklin Community Park Pool in Vanderbilt.
“When it rains people don’t want to spend the money if there is a chance of having to leave early. The latter half of June was pretty good. It started to dry up and we had some decent weather. Early July was pretty average,” said Pindrock.
As the mercury rose in July and August, swimmers came out to take the plunge and cool off. There were about the same number of 88-degree and above days during July through mid-August both years: 19 days in 2024 and 20 days this year, according to AccuWeather data for the Washington area.
By Jon Andreassi Staff writer jandreassi@observer-reporter.com
The Montour Trail spreads out a bit farther now with the official opening of the Muse branch.
The Montour Trail Council held a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local and statewide elected officials Thursday morning to commemorate the new 0.6 mile stretch of trail.
“The railroad built a branch railroad down to serve the mine in Muse back in the 1920s,” said Ned Williams, the project manager for the Muse branch, prior to Thursday’s ceremony. “When we purchased the trail through here, we also purchased the Muse branch for a ways. Our strategy had been to develop the mainline first, and then develop branches.
The Montour Trail stretches about 47 miles, and including the branches has more than 60 miles of trail. The Muse branch connects to the trail near the 24.3 milepost in Cecil Township, and is easily accessible from the McConnell Trails housing development.
The Montour Trail Council has worked with developer NVR since they began work on McConnell Trails more than a decade ago. Williams explained how they helped bring the Muse branch to fruition.
“They graded it, roughed it, established some ditches, and then these guys, our volunteer maintenance crew … finished it into what you see now,” Williams said.
The Muse branch goes off of the main trail and extends to Burnside Road near its intersection with Dogwood Lane. According to Williams, Montour Trail Council plans to extend the branch another mile into Muse.
Julian Wolfe, the president of Montour Trail Council, opened Thursday’s ceremony by recognizing the organization's founders, some of whom were in attendance.
“This small band of intrepid, recreational enthusiasts founded and established this trail 36 years ago, and today it still remains all volunteer, a nonprofit organization," Wolfe said.
Washington County Commissioner Nick Sherman spoke Thursday about the importance of the trail for the county’s economic development.
Sherman described the trail as “great tourism” for the county.
By Karen Mansfield Staff writer kmansfield@observer-reporter.com
Five years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the oldest of the “pandemic babies” – born in early 2020 – are heading off to kindergarten this month.
And while the 3.5 million U.S. children born between March 2020 and 2021 have been more resilient than anybody could have imagined, educators, parents and doctors are anxious to see what impact the pandemic experience will have on young learners as they begin their educational journeys.
“These were the children who were born in the time of lockdowns, and therefore were less exposed to interactions with adults and peers,
Students across the South Hills not only re-
the
cently returned to
classroom, they resumed cheering on their favorite football teams on Friday nights. The 2025 season kicked off with one of the biggest rivalries in the region as Mt. Lebanon hosted
“Even on weekdays we were having 300 to 400 people, which is unusual for a weekday,” said Martin of Washington Park Pool. “There were some days we were pushing our limit at 500 people. Our June numbers are up from last year and so are our July numbers, which is incredible because I never thought we’d beat last year's numbers.”
Martin has a guess as to why: “It got really hot and it stayed very hot.”
Additionally, she said, “We’ve changed the dynamic of the pool I think for the better. There is structure and there are rules. We aren’t afraid to ask someone to go home and try again tomorrow. Our memberships are up again, and I think we are trending in the right way again as a facility,” Martin said.
Along with the summer heat was the threat of thunderstorms, many of them localized in July, according to the NWS.
“Rain definitely keeps people away, and thunder causes us to close temporarily, or for the day. We had plenty of rain and thunderstorms this year,” said David Donnellan, director of recreation for Mt. Lebanon Township. As of early August, Mt. Lebanon Swim Center had 40,676 guests, compared with 44,796 last year. In Mount Lebanon, the pool floor was repaired, filtration was enhanced and a
new chemical controller was installed. Donnellan said the improvements improved the pool’s water quality this season.
Greene County had two facilities in operation this summer, the Mon View Pool in Greensboro and the Greene County Water Park in Waynesburg. The pool in Carmichaels, closed last year for repairs, remained closed again this year.
“We did well on certain days and had five record attendance days when it was hot,” said Bret Moore, director of Greene County Department of Recreation. “But overall that was offset by a
lot of days that we had thunderstorms in the afternoon and had to close early,” said Moore.
Similarly, Christina Hollandsworth, manager of the Canonsburg Town Park Pool, had the same issue.
“It’s been a really odd summer with even trying to predict if we are going to open or not for the day because it never fails, it looks like it's going to storm all day, and then come 2 or 3 p.m. it's beautiful,” said Hollandsworth.
Her strategy was to reduce staffing in the morning, keeping a minimum-regulation number in the event the
weather improved later in the day. Pool pass sales were down overall for the season, she said.
With both indoor and outdoor pools at the Upper St. Clair Recreation Center, swimmers had more options during inclement weather.
“Whenever we opened the pool, the first week or two, we definitely were affected by the rain, but we weren’t into the full summer weather,” said Dennis Burlovic, aquatics supervisor for the recreation center. Once the 90-degree weather started, the outdoor pool was busy. Burlovic noted that on those hot days, from open to close, between 750 to 900 people were checked into the facility.
Staffing levels often dip in August, with lifeguards returning to college, and high schoolers heading to football and band camps.
Pindrock said his staffing numbers were better this year. “We try to work with them as far as the activities and camps go. In the later half of August it slows down as people get ready to go back to school and take vacation,” he said.
The facilities in Greene County closed the season early due to staffing.
“By the time the dry weather came, many lifeguards were heading to football camp, band camp and other camps as well as college,” said Moore.
“It’s cyclical. We had a great year overall last year. You never know what the weather is going to bring, especially when you are open 10 to 12 weeks of the summer,” Moore said.
had lower preschool attendance, and in some instances saw their screen time increase by nearly two hours every day,” said Dr. Joe Aracri, Chair of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Pediatric Institute. According to studies, children who missed out on the preschool or day care experience due to COVID often show more noticeable signs of social delays.
But more socially exposed peers may have also absorbed the stresses and isolating effects of the early pandemic.
“As a result, we have seen some emotional and developmental challenges in this age group,” Aracri said. “We strongly encourage our families to work alongside our skilled pediatricians and clinicians through these fundamental years to ensure that their health and development milestones are being met.”
In one ongoing study published in Biological Psychiatry, research shows that children born during the pandemic have significantly reduced verbal, motor, and overall cognitive performance compared to children born pre-pandemic.
Pediatricians have also noted that children in this group have a lesser-developed ability to regulate emotions, are slower to master fine motor skills (like holding a pencil, for example), and have been slower to communicate clearly and play directly with peers.
Direct play is an important developmental benchmark and is considered a prerequisite for kindergarten readiness, but for many pandemic babies, parallel play – that is, playing side by side – persisted more deeply into the toddler years, Aracri said.
AHN pediatricians offered the following tips for families whose pandemic babies – or older children – are headed back to the classroom:
as determined by your pediatrician and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). In certain situations, early intervention can be critical for a child’s ongoing progress in verbal, fine motor and social skills. Your established pediatric care team will assist with the appropriate referrals, if necessary. Set screen time limits and boundaries on content. Not all screen time is a bad thing; for kids 2 to 5, the AAP recommends about one hour per day of educational, high-quality screen time. If you’re able, watch the program with them and interact as much as possible to make it an engaging experience for the entire family.
Familiarize yourself with pediatric-specific mental health resources, including: Emmy-nominated “Cai & Kate,” a YouTube show developed by a team of AHN behavioral health specialists to help preschool and elementary-aged children understand and regulate “big” feelings and hone their emotional wellness. The series, in its third season, stars a chameleon puppet (Cai) whose color changes depending on his emotions, and a human friend (Kate) who provides commentary on the various feelings portrayed in the show.
“I always joke and say, look, no one is in Seattle, Washington, saying they are going to vacation in Washington County. So what is tourism in Washington County? It’s getting people from Upper St. Clair, and Bethel Park, and South park to come down and spend money in our stores. To go to Tandem and get an ice cream cone, and to stop at the Tanger Outlets when you’re done,” Sherman said. “It may seem like a bike trail, but it’s so much more. It’s making this a livable, workable place.”
after Thursday’s opening ceremony.
Communicate openly, and often, with your child about their day, and watch for signs of increasing anxiety. These can include sleep problems, appetite changes, or increased irritability.
Ease anxieties by familiarizing your child with their school. Do a "dry run" of the school route, tour the school, and introduce yourselves to the teachers, sharing any concerns you may have prior to the first day.
Establish a quiet study space and healthy sleep schedule routine. Keep your child's wellness exams up to date to ensure the child is meeting necessary developmental milestones,
Mental Well-Being Powered by Spring Health is a comprehensive behavioral health program offered to all Highmark members (6 years and older, including CHIP enrollees) that provides virtual or in-person treatment spanning from daily wellness support to therapy, medication management, coaching and 24/7 crisis support. Appointments can be available within three days or less.
Aracri encourages a teambased approach to meet children’s needs.
“For many children starting this new academic year and new life chapter, it will be an adjustment – and by having a skilled pediatric team behind you, the adjustment can be much more manageable,” said Aracri.
JON ANDREASSI/OBSERVER-REPORTER Brenna and Alden Lee walk their dog, Dakota, on the Muse branch of the Montour Trail
Gemma Sculeberg of Muse takes a turn on the zipline, new this year, at Canonsburg Town Park Pool.
METROCREATIVE
The oldest of the “pandemic babies” are heading to kindergarten this month.
COURTESY OF ALLEGHENY HEALTH NETWORK Dr. Joseph Aracri, Chair of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Pediatric Institute.
PHOTOS: JILL THURSTON/OBSERVER-REPORTER
Cole Miller of Muse jumps in after a swim break at Canonsburg Town Park Pool earlier this summer.
Upper St. Clair debates at nationals
The Upper St. Clair High School Speech & Debate team capped off its season at the 100th National Speech & Debate Tournament held recently in Des Moines, Iowa.
The event – recognized as the world’s largest academic competition – welcomed more than 6,700 students from 1,500 schools nationwide. Participants vied for one of 42 national titles.
Rising senior Prachi Chetlur earned a spot in Octofinals (Top 60) for the second year in a row and also advanced in Extemporaneous Commentary.
Recent graduate Harsh Mali delivered a strong performance in Extemporaneous Debate, finishing with a 3-2 record, while rising senior Vincent Watson placed in the Top 100 in Informative Speaking.
The World Schools Debate Team – comprised of recent graduates Opal Miller, Harsh Mali, Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar and Nikhita Thak-
uria – finished with a 3-3 record, one win from advancing. Isabel Vilensky, a 2025 graduate, and Arth Italiya, a rising senior, were also selected for the team by Pittsburgh area coaches, but were unable to attend.
To qualify to compete at the national tournament, Upper St. Clair students had to excel at the Pittsburgh District Tournament in the spring. The district includes schools from a broad geographic area, stretching from Erie to Washington, and allows only two qualifiers per event.
The National Speech & Debate Tournament is one of two national tournaments for the Upper St. Clair team. Recent graduates Isabel Vilensky and Aaryan Kuman finished their high school speech careers with a top-50 finish in Public Forum Debate at the 2025 National Catholic Forensic League Grand Nationals, held May 24 and 25 in Chicago.
Other Upper St. Clair High
School students who qualified and competed include:
■ Josh Anand & Harsh
Mali - Public Forum Debate
■ Nikhil Chandran & Opal
Miller - Public Forum Debate
■ Prachi Chetlur - Extemporaneous Speaking
■ Noshi Dabas - Lincoln-Douglas Debate
■ Eva Dimanov & Helly Makadia - Policy Debate
■ Ali Hanna - Oral Interpretation of Literature
■ Arth Italiya & Krishna
Sathya Vagheeswar - Duo Interpretation
■ Aaron Jiang & Vik Kamat
- Policy Debate
■ Zahra Khan & Izzy LinPolicy Debate
■ Rohan Mehta - Extemporaneous Speaking
■ Roshan Mishra - Extemporaneous Speaking
■ Manav Patel - Student Congress
■ Anushka Sen & Finn Stafford - Duo Interpretation
■ Sofia Sistilli - Original Oratory
■ Harshini SivakumarDeclamation
■ Shreya Sriram - Oral Interpretation of Literature
■ NIkhita Thakuria - Lincoln-Douglas Debate
■ Divya UdhayakumarOriginal Oratory
■ Pari Varshney - Declamation
■ Hansika YanamadalaDramatic Performance
Additionally, 16 members of the speech and debate team were recognized as Academic All Americans by the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA). This coveted award recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, competitive success and exemplary character.
To qualify for the Academic All American award, students must earn the NSDA’s Degree of Superior Distinction (750 points), maintain a GPA of 3.7 or higher, complete at least five semesters of high school, and exhibit outstanding char-
acter and leadership.
Those honored included: Josh Anand, Alison Hann, Harshvardhan Mali, Opal Miller, Roshan Mishra, Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar, Thomas Slowey and Shreya Sriram (all recent graduates) as well as rising seniors: Mana Barimani, Anoushka Barve, Prachi Chetlur, Arth Italiya, Pritika Gupta, Medha Misra, Vincent Watson and Hansika Yanamadala.
The speech and debate club resumes with practices beginning in early September. The club is open to students in grade 9-12 and meets twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:50 to 4:30 p.m. The competition season kicks off in late October and runs through February.
Opal Miller and Prachi Chetlur pose for a photo with Grammy-winning actor and singer Josh Gad during the National Speech and Debate Tournament.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Upper St. Clair students pose for a photo at Starved Rock State Park in Illinois during a break at the National Speech and Debate Tournament. Pictured from left are: Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar, Harsh Mali, Nikhita Thakuria, Prachi Chetlur, Opal Miller, Lily Edwards, Vincent Watson
McMurray resident recognized
Megan Shilling was recently named the 2025 winner of Concordia Lutheran Ministries’ highest employee honor: the Stephen W. Johnson Mission Award.
Shilling is the Concordia Visiting Nurses orthopedic navigator from McMurray.
The award was created by an employee-led committee to honor Concordia’s late chairman of the board of directors, Stephen W. Johnson, who served at Concordia for 19 years before his death in 2020.
From Concordia’s 3,500 employees, nominees were recognized by community members, patients, residents and colleagues. They represented the majority of Concordia’s inpatient locations and home and community-based companies. A
selection panel for the award judged the nominations, ending with 21 distinguished finalists, 10 honorable mentions, two spotlight honorees and one winner.
Shilling was recognized by her colleagues not only for her clinical expertise and leadership, but also for the compassion, humility and dedication she demonstrates in every facet of her work.
Those who work alongside Shilling describe her as someone who treats every person – whether a coworker, patient or community member – with the same care and attentiveness she would offer a family member.
“Megan exemplifies everything this award stands for – selfless service, humility, compassion and
unwavering leadership,” said Misty Ingram, Concordia Community Support Services chief operating officer. “She lifts others through action and presence, whether comforting a colleague in crisis, advocating for patients or mentoring her team with grace and resolve. Megan’s faith, strength and tireless work make her a beacon of hope and healing.”
Shilling and the other finalists were honored at a banquet held at Concordia at Cabot. As the winner, she has the choice to go on a mission trip funded by Concordia along with a $5,000 charitable donation made in her name or a $15,000 charitable donation made in her honor to a nonprofit organization dedicated to person-centered, life-enhancing services.
Years of service: 11 years
Position: Assistant Ad Director
What you like about your job: This position combines two delightful roles: partnering with local businesses to reach their goals and leading an incredible group of marketing professionals. The events we host, along with a number of our multimedia campaigns have made profound impacts in Southwestern PA and it’s a pleasure to be apart of them!
What do you enjoy about helping small businesses? The joy I experience from our work does not come from making a sale! I get excited when we
South Fayette esports team wins state championship
South Fayette’s esports team, D1
captured a state championship. D1
composed
Blatz, Dominic
Angelo Mariano, Peter Fromeyer and Nicholas Young, entered the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports Association (PIEA) Tournament as the 20th seed, but emerged as the champion. They returned to school with the same fire truck escort the district gives to all of its
champion athletes. Also, the D1 Rocket League team advanced to the semifinals, but lost to Biglerville, which beat South Fayette in the state championship match in 2024. This is the second full year of esports at the district. In 2024, the Rocket League team advanced to the Grand Final Round of the Fall PIEA tournament and the district’s Valorant team made it to the state semifinals.
COURTESY OF SOUTH FAYETTE SCHOOL DISTRICT
With their state championship trophy are the members of team D1 Overwatch, from left, recent rising junior Peter Fromeyer.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Megan Shilling of McMurray was the recipient of the Stephen W. Johnson Mission Award. Pictured from left are Concordia Board of Directors Vice Chairman Rande Casaday; Shilling; Tracey Johnson, wife of the late Stephen W. Johnson; and Concordia President and CEO Keith Frndak.
Bethel Park native honored for fundraising
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac staff writer
ebailey@thealmanac.net
Bethel Park native Grant
Krally was honored at a Leukemia Lymphoma Society Grand Finale held recently in the UPMC suite at Acrisure Stadium.
The event is the culmination of a 10-week fundraising campaign where individuals and teams compete to raise funds for LLS to support blood cancer research and patient services.
Team Grant Krally raised $78,445, which was the second most among those contributing a record of over $660,000.
Krally was recognized with the Patient Care Award.
“The fundraiser was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience,” Krally said.
me,” he said.
Chris Kail sponsored Krally and his key support came from the Craig E. Kaforey Family Foundation.
“My mom has always instilled in me the need to give back,” Krally said. “I’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to do so given the amazing support system surrounding me — most notably Craig Kaforey, as the incredible generosity of his family foundation was the single top sponsor of the Pittsburgh Grand Finale.”
USC to induct 10 into Halls of Fame
Ten individuals have been selected for induction into the Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame. Eight alumni and two retired members will be honored at the 26th annual event to be held Oct. 9.
Festivities begin with a reception at 5 p.m. in the high school’s arts entrance, followed by dinner and ceremony at 6 p.m. in the large group instruction room. Tickets for the event are $25 and will be available for purchase in early September.
The inductees into the academic wing of the Hall of Fame are: Tanya Chothani, retired teacher; Joe DeMar, retired administrator; Christopher W. Hanes, Ph.D. HSPP, Class of 1997, and Vincent Reyes,
Class of 1994. Three nominees will be enshrined in the arts wing. Among them are: Richard St. John, Class of 1970; Jenny Malarkey, Class of 2006 and Peter Mudge, Class of 2001.
The athletes gaining entrance into the Hall of Fame are: Ben Huss, Class of 2014; Troye Kiernan, Class of 2014 and Kris McDonough, Class of 2006. For 26 years, Upper St. Clair High School has annually honored and celebrated alumni, staff and volunteers who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to
the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. Since its inception in 2000, 347 individuals have been inducted into the Academic, Arts and Athletic Halls of Fame. This fall, the number of inductees will grow to 357. The Halls of Fame was founded in 2000 by three faculty members, representing each of the three categories. Jim Bennett, retired band director, led the Arts Hall of Fame. Jane Hollman, retired English teacher, spearheaded the Academic Hall of Fame. Jim Render, retired physical education teacher and football coach, helped to establish the Athletic Hall of Fame, where he continues to serve as a committee member.
Krally added that receiving the special award was one of his primary goals because the LLS society does a great job of engaging the candidates with local families currently battling these diseases. “To be honored with that award was really the pinnacle of our successful campaign for
“Being able to collaborate with my family and friends throughout the campaign made the process even more enjoyable.”
Previously, Krally raised $18,000 for Cystic Fibrosis and was recognized as one of Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest in 2018.
Krally, 34, is the vice president of international sales for Xodus Medical. He has been employed with the company for 12 years since graduating from St. Vincent College. Krally is a 2009 Bethel Park High School graduate.
Grant Krally
BACK & BETTER
Shanafelt amped up for senior season at Peters Township
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net
Lucas Shanafelt embraces the “calm before the storm” so the Peters Township outside linebacker opts not to listen to music before football games.
“Before my first game, I tried headphones, but I didn’t like it because I was too calm. I like to be amped up, excited, and focused,” he said.
So before each game, Shanafelt “visualizes” all of the things he will be required to do. The plays he’ll make. The tackles and sacks.
“All the mental preparation,” he continued. “I focus on that.”
The strategy appears to work as Shanafelt is expected to be one of the top edge rushers as well as a top target at tight end in the WPIAL this season along with his teammate Reston Lehman.
An all-conference performer, Shanafelt played a key role on a Peters Township team that reached the WPIAL Class 5A finals and finished 11-2 overall last fall. He posted three sacks and 27 tackles on a defense that surrendered only 10.7 points per game in 2024. On an offense that managed 30 points per game, he pulled in 16 receptions for 135 yards and a touchdown.
It was a breakout season for Shanafelt who admittedly “hadn’t really played” much until his junior year.
“I surprised myself,” he said. “I really didn’t know what to expect and where my potential rested, but last year really made me realize what the team and I can do.”
In 2025, Shanafelt wants the Indians to reach the top of the mountain and as a senior, he is ready to play his part.
LUCAS SHANAFELT
Age: 17
Birthdate: May 19
Parents: Allison and Jason
Siblings: Carter, who is a sophomore at Penn State, and Emme, 14, who plays basketball and lacrosse.
QPA: 4.5
Clubs: National Honor Society
College choice: Stanford
Major: Economics
Food: Steak
Restaurant: Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
Read: To Kill a Mockingbird
Movie: The Great Gatsby
Color: Black. “A lot of my clothing is black.”
Athlete(s): Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum and Spanish soccer player
Lamine Yamal.
Music: Drake
Life lesson sports has taught you: Success will speak for itself.
Person with whom you’d like to have dinner: My grandmother, Judy Molinero. “I was very close with her and there’s a lot of things I have done since she passed away that I would like to tell her about.”
People might be surprised to know this about you: Reston (Lehman) and Nolan (DiLucia) are two of my best friends. We have a lot of similarities. Football wise, Reston and I are similar.
Focus key to Peters Township matchup against Mt. Lebanon
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
Focus determines many outcomes in sports including football games. Just ask Mt. Lebanon or Peters Township who will battle each other at 7 p.m. Sept. 5 in The Almanac’s Game of the Week.
Lebo got off to a rough start in its season opener, dropping a 35-14 decision to arch-rival Upper St. Clair.The Blue Devils fell behind, 35-0, and there were nearly six minutes to play in the first half.
McMillon makes the cut PT graduate earns Cleveland roster spot
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net
Donovan McMillon wasn’t too concerned when he was passed over in the NFL Draft back in April. That wasn’t the Peters Township graduate’s goal.
“Everybody’s dream is to get drafted but mine is to get to the NFL,” he said after signing a free agent contract with the Cleveland Browns.
Today, McMillon is living the dream. On Aug. 26, he made the final cut when NFL rosters were reduced to 53 players.
McMillon will be one of 10 defensive backs on the Cleveland roster when the Browns host the Cincinati Bengals at 1 p.m. Sept. 7 at Huntington Bank Field. The game will be televised on FOX.
A 6-2, 203-pound safety, McMillon will have his official homecoming when the Browns visit Pittsburgh on Oct. 12 at Acrisure Stadium. Kickoff against the Steelers is 1 p.m. McMillon earned his spot on the roster after a solid training camp. He made seven tackles and broke up two passes.
He adds depth to the secondary, which has been revamped especially at the safety position. He is ranked third in the depth chart behind veterans Grant Delpit and Rayshawn Jokins. McMillon arrived in Cleveland via the University of Pittsburgh and Florida.
At Pitt, he was a second team selection to the Atlantic Coast Conference all-star squad. He recorded back-toback 100-tackle seasons, a feat not performed since 2008. He finished with 220 tackles and one interception. He had a season-high total of 15 last fall against Cincinnati.
Before Pitt, McMillon toiled two seasons with the Gators. He registered 30 tackles in 25 games and made the SEC academic honor roll in 2022.
During his scholastic years, McMillon was one of the WPIAL’s most heavily recruited players. He ranked as high as 15th among safeties in the nation.
He spearheaded Peters Township’s rebuilding process. The Indians hadn’t won a conference championship since 1975 when McMillon helped them pick up back-to-back banners in 2020 and 2021. An All-State performer, he led the Indians to a 20-3 record during those campaigns and consecutive WPIAL Class 5A championship appearances. McMillon also excelled in wrestling.
BRIEFS
SEPT. 5
SCHEDULE
Mt. Lebanon at Peters Township South Fayette at Canon-McMillan Armstrong at Bethel Park Indiana at Chartiers Valley Upper St. Clair at Franklin Regional (All games kick off at 7 p.m.)
“USC came out ready and played physical,” said Lebo head coach Greg Perry. Perry took the “blame” for Lebo’s performance, which included as the only highlights two second-half touchdowns: a 96-yard scoring strike from Patrick Smith to Maxton Siegel, after USC fumbled the football in the end zone, and a 1-yard scoring run by Kris Kambitsis.
“It’s my job to have our team ready,” Perry said. “We made mistakes that were uncharacteristic. It wasn’t so much what USC did, it was us making mental mistakes and it cost us.”
the
WPIAL NEWS
The WPIAL announced its full list of championship locations and dates for the fall season. They are listed on the website at www.wpial.org as well as below: Cross Country – Oct. 23 at White Oak Park Field Hockey – Oct. 28-29 at North Allegheny High School Football – Nov. 15 at Pine-Richland High School for Class 4A and 6A and Nov. 22 at Acrisure Stadium for Class 1A, 2A, 3A and 5A Boys golf: AA Individuals –Sept. 30 at Valleybrook Country Club; AAA Individuals – Sep. 29 at Butler Golf Club; Team championships on Oct. 9 at Cedarbrook Golf Club Girls golf - AA & AAA Individuals –Oct. 1 at Sewickley Heights Country Club; Team championships on Oct. 9 at Cedarbrook Golf Club
Peters Township opened Section 5 boys’ golf action with three consecutive victories. The Indians defeated Baldwin, 195-221, at the South Hills Country Club, Canon-McMillan, 185-192, at the Lindenwood Golf Club and Trinity, 189207, at the Lone Pine Country Club. Against the Highlanders, Camden Reyes, Tyler Ondrejko and Andrew Davis all fired 38s to lead the Indians. Jackson Baxter (40) and Kaden Holleran (41) completed the scoring for PT, which improved to 2-0 overall with the victory. Finn Sobehart also competed against Baldwin. Sophomore Caden Benson carded a 36 and John Blackwell also golfed but their scores were not applied to the varsity final. Against the Big Macs, Reyes took medalist honors with a 35. Ondrejko, Sobehart and Baxter followed with 37s. Davis finished with a 39 and Holleran added a 40. For the Big Macs, Jon Taczak fired a 37 followed by 38s from Hunter Werthman and Ben Taczak. Chase Wethman and Blake Simmons finished with 40 and 41 scores. Against the Hillers, Reyes and Baxter carded low scores of 35 while Holleran submitted a 38. Sobehart (40) and Ondrejko (41) completed PT’s scoring.
Donovan McMillon
ELEANOR BAILEY/STAFF
Grady (65) hoists up Anthony Rozzo (11) as Colin Green (48) and Drew Sanderson (10) join
celebration after a touchdown during Upper St. Clair’s victory, 35-14, over Mt. Lebanon.
GOLF
ELEANOR BAILEY/STAFF
Lucas Shanafelt (left) and Reston Lehman (right) are considered two of the top outside linebackers in the WPIAL this season. Shanafelt is a Stanford commit while Lehman picked Pitt to continue their college careers upon graduation from Peters Township.
Simplicity key for Mt. Lebanon boys soccer
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
ebailey@thealmanac.net
Mike Gullo faces an interesting dilemma as he attempts to direct Mt. Lebanon to its 11th WPIAL championship and second PIAA title in the history of the boys soccer program. The Blue Devils have not won a district banner since 2009 and their only state championship occurred in 1981.
“Our goal is to win a state title,” said Rullo, who is in his second season at the helm. “We need to be laser focused, locked in with preparation; nutrition, recovery, game planning and play simple, fast soccer.”
Gullo added that the area the Blue Devils need to improve is
to “simplify” their game. A challenge indeed because Lebo possesses a wealth of knowledge of the game from the top down. Gullo, himself, is a wellversed student of the game. He played at Gateway High School and at the club level for Penns Forest before competing for two seasons at Penn State Behrend. The Mt. Lebanon resident also has been teaching science at the high school since 2003. Additionally, the Blue Devils return four key starters from last year’s squad that finished 5-5 in section and 11-8 overall. They are seniors Victor Slack, Benton Thompson and Aaron Henck as well as junior
Ignati Darakos.
“My expectations for these (returning starters) are to model the level of intensity that is needed to become better each and every day,” Gullo said. In addition to the aforementioned veterans, Lebo boasts 15 other seniors on the roster. Among them are: Adrian Limon, Owen Byrne, Jonathan Frew, Noah Defeo, Simon Marks, Santiago Yamunaque, Liam Frey, Sid Jain, Sam Maxim, Michael Payner, Rory Doran, Mateo Montoya, Camden Forquer, Eli Kypriotis and Lorenzo Danley. Slack and Kypriotis serve as team captains along with Caleb Campanaro, a junior goalkeeper.
Blue Devils.
Meanwhile, Peters Township dismissed its nearby rival, Canon-McMillan, 42-14, in its season opener.
“All of our guys, the ones we expected to be players, all showed up,” said PT coach TJ Plack. “We even had some young guys step up.”
Though the Indians will be celebrating and recognizing its seniors, Plack admits they face a centering challenge when hosting the Blue Devils at Confluence Financial Partners Stadium.
“The key is to eliminate distractions,” Plack said. “It’s great that it’s a home game and our senior night, but we need to come out of the gate strong. We need to be focused on such a special night.”
Against the Big Macs, Nolan DiLucia had a typical night. The Villanova recruit completed 14 of 21 passes for 252 yards and three touchdowns.
Stanford commit Lucas Shanafelt hauled in two scoring strikes of 20 and 54 yards and finished with five receptions for 83 yards. Additionally, Jeremy Poletti caught a 57-yard TD.
Cole Neupaver rushed for two scores measuring 1 and 9 yards. He finished with 109 yards on 18 carries.
Mark Ripepi tacked on a 3-yard TD run.
“I was very happy with our game against Canon-Mac,” Plack said. “While I like our first running back (Neupaver), Mark stepped up and showed he can carry the ball as well and provide us with depth.
“Jeremy and Lucas (Rost) both had a couple of catches and showed they can give us some much needed speed on the outside.”
With Shanafelt and Reston Lehman, a Pitt recruit, on the outside as end rushers, the Peters Township defense isn’t likely to give much to Smith, who threw for 112 yards on five completions against USC. A Penn prospect, Smith was a 1,000-yard plus passer as well as rusher last season.
“Peters Township is very strong defensively, particularly with those two Power-4 outside linebackers,” Perry said. “Their quarterback is steady and they look like a strong contender in Class 5A again.
“It’s going to take a clean, solid game from us without mental lapses, to contend with them.”
Plack, meanwhile, embraces the opportunity of facing another Class 6A club, particularly after taking on highly regarded McKeesport, a Class 4A power, the week after the Canon-Mac fray.
“It’s another of those South Hills back-yard football games that when they created the realignment, it was my goal to keep and play those close teams as much as possible. We want to keep those rivalries going,” Plack said.
“Greg’s a great guy and he’s got dudes over there, particularly that quarterback, who is a threat on both sides of the ball. Plus, Mt. Lebanon has a rich football tradition.
“We expect a good game,” Plack continued. “Lebo is only going to get better each and every week. When we face them, we expect a more polished team for sure than what we saw on the film from their USC game.”
USC AT FR
When Upper St. Clair travels to Franklin Regional, the Panthers will look to extend its project of adjustments and player preparation for their conference opener against Peters Township on Sept. 26.
“Coach (Lance) Getsy does a great job of running the Franklin Regional program,” said USC coach Mike Junko. “They are a team that makes the playoffs most years and they are always physical and disciplined.
“Our objection is to continue to grow on offense,” Junko added. “With four new starters on the offensive line and three on the defensive line we are trying to build depth and get those guys experience.
The Panthers have been filling those gaps caused by graduation as well as injuries. They suffered the loss of 24 seniors from last year’s conference championships club that lost to Peters Township in the WPIAL semifinals and finished 11-1 overall. Additionally, they have redesigned the offensive line after Reese Pirain tore his ACL on the first day of training camp.
“We’ve had to make some changes and they’ve kind of had a next-man-up mentality,” said USC head coach Mike Junko. “On a whole, those guys have done a great job of protecting Ethan (Hellmann) and opening things up (for the ground game).”
After the Lebo triumph, Hellmann concurred. A fourth-year starter at quarterback, he completed 17 of 22 passes for 273 yards and four touchdowns against the
“We have incredibly talented players. Too many guys to list who are filling vacancies and a bench that provides us with tremendous depth,” Gullo said. “Each guy that steps onto the pitch brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.”
The Blue Devils exercised those strengths when they opened the 2025 campaign with an impressive showing at the East-West Classic played at Alvernia University. Lebo blanked Wilson, 2-0, and Fleetwood, 9-0. Against Wilson, Yamunaque and Brady Gullo scored the tallies.
Gullo is one of three sophomores on the roster. The others are Grayson Stuart and James
Havas, both midfielders. Against Fleetwood, Thompson and junior DJ McKay scored two goals each. Havas, Mike Perkovich, Stuart, Defeo and Eamonn Nagle supplied the other tallies. Perkovich and Nagle are juniors as are Conner Baird, Brady Lowe, Charlie Taylor and Mac Trant.
Frey and Frew filled the playmaking role in the tournament. Frey assisted on the goals against Wilson. Frew assisted on two goals against Fleetwood.
Lebo also defeated Central Catholic, 3-1, in a non-section contest played Aug. 26 at home.
Nagle, Frey and Slack scored the goals. Trant and Yamun-
aque picked up assists. The Blue Devils embark on Section 2 action in Class 4A of the WPIAL on Sept. 4. They travel to Peters Township to face the defending division champions. Kickoff is at 7:45 p.m.
Lebo follows by hosting rival Upper St. Clair on Sept. 9 and Canon-McMillan on Sept. 11. Both games list a 7:30 p.m. start.
“Our section is very strong,” Gullo said. “Any team can beat anyone on any given night.” Gullo is optimistic his Blue Devils will prevail because of two key strengths.
“The players are dedicated. For them, it’s a program-overself mentality.”
“The key was execution and every guy was on assignment. We really only had one returning linemen. So we had four guys that needed to step up and they really did their job. The O-line can really control a game and that’s what they did.”
Anchored by three-year starter Mason Geyer, the Panthers out-gained the Blue Devils 465-267. They rolled up 192 yards on the ground with Dante Coury and Luca Coury picking up the lions’ share with 83 and 46 yards, respectively.
“Mason is a captain and his experience means the world to us and to him because he’s in a new position. He’s been awesome filling his new role and to have him there really helps all of those guys.”
In addition to Geyer at center, Ryan Robbins and Kenny Davis excelled at tackle while Chase Kaczmarek and Elias Grady shone at guard. Their play enabled Hellmann to find his favorite target, Nico D’Orazio, for 127 yards and three touchdowns on five receptions. D’Orazio also had five tackles to follow John Banbury’s team-high eight.
“Nico D’Orazio made a lot of big plays for us,” Junko said. “He was a big part on both sides of the field.”
After a 27-yard interception by Caffery Duplessis, Hellmann hooked up with Anthony Rozzo for a 27-yard touchdown.
“Ethan was the quarterback that I’m used to seeing out there and the quarterback play of a four-year starter. So when he’s making throws like he did (against Mt. Lebanon), we can have success,” Junko said.
“He got into a rhythm early and the biggest thing was he took what they gave him and didn’t force things.”
Junko added Hellmann has come a long way and just from this summer when he experienced a bout with Lyme disease after incurring a tick bite.
“He’s overcome a lot of adversity and he’s worked extremely hard,” Junko said. “He’s just such a passionate leader on the field. His teammates will follow him to the end of the earth. So, it’s fun to watch him when he’s really rolling.”
For the Panthers to keep their momentum, they must do certain things in unfamiliar surroundings. Junko said it will be the first time he has coached at the Franklin Regional stadium, dubbed Panther Stadium. “We are looking forward to making the trip,” he said.
“We need to continue to execute on offense. We have to get off the field on defense and avoid costly penalties and turnovers. Our receiving corps needs to do a great job of making plays with their feet after the catch.”
OTHER GAMES
The third week of the season has Canon-McMillan preparing for another Allegheny Six Conference foe. The opponent on Sept. 5 is South Fayette at AHN Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.
The Lions opened the 2025 campaign with a 38-15 victory at Chartiers Valley.
In the win, Drew Welhorsky passed for 108 yards. He completed 9 of 11 of attempts, including one for a 46-yard scoring strike to Daniel Speca. Welhorsky also rushed for 89 yards.
Aayden Wright rambled for 101 yards, 61 of those on a touchdown run in the third quarter. Bo Stover provided three rushing scorers of 5, 2 and 39 yards.
For the Colts, who will host Indiana on Sept. 5, Michael Lawrence completed 10 of 18 aerials for 128 yards and a 52yard scoring strike to Julius Best for the first score of the game. After the Lions reeled off six scores, including a 35yard field goal by Luke Gillen, Zach Efthimiades registered a 2-yard touchdown for the Colts. Nico Hines and Owen Weagraff combined for the 2-point conversion to complete the game’s scoring.
Bethel Park will host Armstrong at 7 p.m. Sept. 8. By using a recipe that led to success in 2024, The Black Hawks opened up the 2025 campaign with a 43-26 win against Seneca Valley. Bethel Park used the one-two punch of Evan Devine and David Dennison to dispatch the Raiders.
Following in the footsteps of Tanner Pfeuffer, who threw for more than 6,000 career yards, including 2,656 last season, Devine completed 15 of 28 attempts for 359 yards. He threw a pair of TD passes – one a 57-yard strike to Santino Nowozeniuk and the other a 3-yard score to Charlie Simmons.
Nowozeniuk finished with five receptions for 160 yards while Will Sabatos caught seven aerials for 127 yards.
Following in the footsteps of JaVaughn Moore, who rushed for 2,084 yards last year before matriculating to Robert Morris, David Dennison ran for 238 yards against the Raiders. He rushed for four scores, measuring 9, 11, 17 and 1 yards.
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Amped
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“Winning the WPIAL championship is the top goal because more than anything in life, last year’s loss stung,” he said. “It’s haunted us in a way and we have used that as motivation throughout the off season.
“Now is my time to make my mark and be one of the leaders on this team. My main impact is in leading by example, making plays when no one else can and showing others how it’s down every day.”
Shanafelt has “poured” everything he has into football. He says the sport takes up all of hit attention. During the off season, he spent a lot of time in the weight room, bulking up to 235 pounds on his 6-foot-4 frame, and on the field during summer drills. He supplemented those workouts with sessions at the D1 Training Center in Robinson Township.
“All my attention is strictly to football, my body and detail,” he said. Off the football field, however, Shanafelt devotes time to academics. In fact, he carries a 4.5 GPA into his senior year. He scored 1300 on his SAT.
Numbers of which Stanford and other college recruiters took notice. Shanafelt had 22 scholarship offers, including from Power 4 schools such as Pitt, West Virginia and Purdue. He also listed offers from Akron, Buffalo, Cornell, Delaware, Fordham, Eastern Michigan, Harvard, James Madison, Kent State, Lehigh, Liberty, Miami (Ohio), Navy, Penn, Princeton, Temple, Toledo and Connecticut.
Shanafelt committed to Stanford earlier this spring. He will major in economics.
“Stanford felt like a good fit,” he said. “I loved the
PT
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He was a WPIAL and PIAA state runner-up at 182 pounds.
“Peters Township is where it all started,” McMillon said.
“It was about learning to take advantage of every opportunity and do the right things no matter who is watching,” he added. “Peters Township gave me nothing but blessings and helped set me up for the future.”
McMillon acknowledges the role his family has played in his success. “They are my
Briefs
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Soccer – Oct. 30-31 and Nov. 1 at Highmark Stadium Girls tennis - singles on Sept. 18 and doubles on Oct. 2 at North Allegheny; Team finals on Oct. 15 at Washington & Jefferson College Girls volleyball – Peters Twp High School (AHN Arena) – November 1
BOWLING
Female bowlers are
campus and the culture. Their schemes are a lot like ours on defense. They do a lot of different things and bring a lot to the table. The physical part, the consistency and competitiveness of the program felt like things that I needed.”
Shanafelt also wanted a place that would enable him to mature as a player and as a person. They are the primary reasons why he chose the Cardinal, which competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
“I wanted to go to a place where I could improve as a person in all ways – education and football wise,” Shanafelt said. “Being away from family and not relying on mom, dad and other family members was something I wanted to tackle, something I needed to do.” Shanafelt added he wanted to win as well, specifically “Win the ACC,” he said. Lehman, who picked Pitt, an ACC adversary of Stanford, reminded him that “he won’t.” However, the PT partners are preparing for an emotional ending to their high school careers. As laid back as he is in the locker room, Shanafelt is passionate on the playing field. A Pick-6 or a sack sparks a “spontaneous” response.
“I get amped up and can break out into a celebration but it’s natural,” Shanafelt admitted. “I feel a lot of emotions in a game, especially if we lose.”
“Yea, he cries,” Lehman said. “He cries when we win too.”
Far down the road, Shanafelt may be shedding tears of joy should he achieve his ultimate goal. Of course, he said, he entertains thoughts of playing in the NFL.
“I remember watching NFL and NBA games when I was younger and I wanted to be like them,” he said. “That’s stayed consistent. I just have to put my all into it.”
rock,” he said. His mother, Shelley, is a “calming” influence”, while his father, Darrin, is the person he “looks up to the most” and helped him negotiate adulthood and “becoming a man” as well as football. His brothers, Darius, Dane and Davin, are his “best friends” whom he is excited for their own futures. McMillon’s own future is now. He’s hoping it's long in duration.
“It’s one day at a time,” McMillon said. “Having the opportunity to live out my dream is icing on the cake. I hope to be playing football for as long as I can.”
wanted to participate in a league beginning in September. The group bowls at 9:30 a.m. Mondays through April at Mt. Lebanon Lanes. Call 412-977-4407 for more information.
SOCCER
The Mt. Lebanon fall soccer program begins Sept. 8. Games are held at Bird Park or Dixon field from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays through October. 20. Practices are held once on a weekday evening at the coach’s discretion.
sights & sounds
STILL BLOOMING
Rare lung surgery gives Peters Township woman her life back
By Karen Mansfield Staff writer kmansfield@observer-reporter.com
Over the years, Mary Ann Reck, a master gardener, has cultivated a beautiful perennial garden in the back yard of her Peters Township home.
It’s filled with vibrant hydrangeas, coneflowers, lavender, peonies, and tulips brought back from a trip to the famous Keukenhof Tulip Gardens in Amsterdam.
But Reck, 72, is disappointed with her garden this year.
“All I’ve cultivated this year are weeds,” said Reck, standing near a shrub of gorgeous, blooming white hydrangeas.
But there’s a reason – besides the summer’s hot weather and heavy rains – that Reck’s garden, still lovely, looks a bit untamed to her.
Diagnosed with a rare, progressive, life-threatening lung condition called CTEPH (Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension), Reck underwent a complex and challenging surgical procedure on May 7 at AHN Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.
Reck’s surgery, a pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE), was performed by nationally recognized cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Candice Lee, who is one of the few surgeons in the country who performs PTEs to treat CTEPH.
It was the 100th PTE successfully completed at Allegheny General Hospital. The surgery is offered at only a handful of hospitals in the United States.
Patients travel from across the country to have their CTEPH treated at Allegheny General Hospital; Reck lives 18 miles away.
“I’m grateful that we have these great hospitals and great resources in Pittsburgh, so close to us,” said Reck. “Being the 100th PTE patient at AGH isn’t the way I want to become a bit of a celebrity, but I am grateful for these doctors.”
CTEPH is a form of high blood pressure in the lungs that develops when blood clots (called pulmonary embolisms) in the lungs don’t dissolve, causing blockages in the
artery. Over time, the blockages lead to scar tissue and other changes in the blood vessels in the lungs and makes it difficult for the right heart to pump blood properly, which can weaken the heart muscle.
“The added work on the heart muscle can cause right heart failure, and reduce oxygenated blood flow to the body’s cells, tissues and vital organs,” said Lee. “Although rare, CTEPH can be debilitating, and fatal if left untreated.”
Up to 3,000 cases of CTEPH are diagnosed each year in the U.S. When left untreated, the CTEPH prognosis is poor. The average life expectancy for someone with CTEPH is between one to three years.
Reck was extremely nervous to undergo the surgery, “but I was between a rock and a hard place, but it was my best option and my other options were not good.
“I wanted to get better, so I just had to have faith and put myself in those doctors’ hands and God’s hands, and I went for it. And I was grateful that I had the opportunity for the surgery, because not everybody is qualified,” she said, noting about 30% of people with CTEPH aren’t candidates for PTE.
And Reck had confidence in Lee and the “A Team,” led by Lee.
A long, technical surgery
PTE is a long, technically difficult open-heart surgery that includes heart-lung bypass, a medical feat that makes many of today’s intricate surgeries - like PTE - possible.
During her 10-hour surgery, Reck’s chest was opened and she was connected to a heart-lung bypass machine, which takes over the work of the heart. Her body was then cooled to about 65 degrees Fahrenheit to protect the brain and organs during the operation.
Lee then delicately removed several blood clots from the pulmonary arteries in both of Reck’s lungs before her body was gradually warmed and she was taken off the ventilator.
Speed is crucial. During the periods where the heart-lung machine is
what’s happening
PT NEWCOMERS
The Peters Township Newcomers and Neighbors Club will host a Ladies Night Out on Sept. 11 at Valleybrook Country Club. All women can attend and meet members to get to know the organization.
Activities include monthly bunco, pickleball, book clubs, couples social events, wine tastings, crafts, lunch and dinner outings, mahjong and children's activities. The group also provides service and support to many local nonprofits.
RSVP required. Visit www.ptnc.org or call 724-249-7668.
GIANT OAKS
The Giant Oaks Garden Club will meet Sept. 4 at St. David's Episcopal Church, 905 E. McMurray Road. Lunch is served at 11:15 a.m. At 1 p.m. Chris Stewart from Dormont Florist will conduct a fall wreath workshop. Fee applies for those making a wreath. Guests can attend for $6. Call 412-760-4221 to register.
ART SHOW
The third annual art in the park will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. Sept. 6 in Dormont Park.
The free, family-friendly event features 40 artisan vendors, immersive art experiences and activities, including cyanotypes, a story stroll, a children’s book swap, a vinyl record swap, a bubble garden and a chalk walk. The schedule for events and live performances follows:
2 p.m. – Record Swap by The Parking Pad
2:15 p.m. – T-Leo (acoustic duo, Al Reiber and Eric Weingrad)
3 p.m. – Children’s book swap by Beyond Bedtime Books
3:45 p.m. – Confluence Ballet Company (inclusive, innovative ballet)
5:30 p.m. – Steeltown Horns (internationally touring funk band w/powerhouse horn trio)
turned off and the heart stops beating - which provides a bloodless field for surgeons to work in - surgeons have about 20 minutes for each lung to remove blood clots and scar tissue.
Reck’s surgery was successful.
She spent two weeks in the hospital, including five days in ICU, before returning home.
“I’m feeling good,” said Reck, who is still undergoing cardiac rehab at AHN Canonsburg and will need to continue on blood thinners for life. “I can do practically everything I did before.”
An active lifestyle interrupted Reck had always been healthy and active.
But in 2022, she ended up with a series of health issues, starting with COVID-19 in June of that year, followed by shingles in December.
Then, in January 2023, on a trip to Oahu, Hawaii, Reck suffered a perforated appendix eight days into the vacation and underwent an emergency appendectomy on the island.
She remained in the hospital for two days before she and her husband, Kevin, who were accompanied by Reck’s cousin, flew home.
At a doctor’s appointment on Feb. 1, her primary care physician, Dr. Vincent Trapanotto of Allegheny Health Network, heard abnormal heart sounds and, suspecting a possible pulmonary embolism, sent her immediately to AHN Canonsburg for diagnostic tests including a chest CT scan.
Tests confirmed a blood clot, and Reck was immediately transferred to AHN Allegheny General and on Feb. 2 – Reck’s 70th birthday – she underwent a thrombectomy, a surgery to remove a blood clot from an artery or vein.
Following the surgery, Reck was placed on a blood thinner for six months to prevent new clots from forming.
“Six months later, I was taken off Eliquis, which is normal procedure, and in 97% of people, that takes care of it. I thought it was taken care of and I could put this behind me,” said Reck.
But about a month later, Reck
Food and drinks will be available from Arsenal Cider, Back Alley Brewing, Millie’s Ice Cream, Knossos Gyros, Bottledogs by Bottlerocket, and more.
All artists can participate and display works. Visit dormontarts.com/artinthepark for details.
RECYCLE
A household chemical collection event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 6 at the South Park Wave Pool parking lot. Automotive fluids, household cleaners, paint and pesticides are among the items that will be collected. A $20 fee will cover the cost of disposal. Advanced registration is required. Visit pre.org/CollectionEvents to sign up.
PT REC
The Peters Township Recreation Center is accepting registration for fall classes. Visit peterstownship.com or call 724-942-5000. The following will be offered:
■ Knight School Varsity Chess for ages 5 to 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Fee is $200 ($300 nonmembers).
■ Pumpkin Nail String Art from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Sept. 17. This ladies night workshop will guide participants through a step-by-step process to design pumpkin art using wood board nails, string and a hammer. Fee is $15 ($20 nonmembers).
■ Speed and agility with Dion Wiegand begins Sept. 4. Ages 8 to 15 meet from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursdays for eight weeks. Fee is $100 ($150 nonmembers).
■ Youth Hip Hop Dance for ages 5 to 12 on Tuesdays from 6:35 to 7:20 p.m. Fee is $50 ($75 nonmembers). Students learn routines featuring hip hop and various styles of old school, street dance and modern funk. No experience necessary.
Mary Ann Reck stands by a hydrangea shrub in her garden. Reck underwent successful pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) surgery in May and is undergoing physical therapy as she continues her recovery.
started experiencing shortness of breath, called her doctor and said she was struggling to breathe.
“They said if I was short of breath, I should get to the hospital,” said Reck. Her pulmonologist, Allegheny Health Network’s Dr. Raghukumar Thirumala, ordered a series of tests, which showed high pulmonary hypertension. Additional tests confirmed what Thirumala had suspected: CTEPH.
In about 3% to 5% of people with a pulmonary embolism, clots get stuck in the lungs and remain there longterm. Many people with CTEPH are unaware they have the blood clots, and the disease can progress slowly and silently for months or years.
That’s what happened to Reck.
“It was caused by the blood clots that I had about two years ago which did not resolve after treatment with blood thinners,” Reck said. “Dr. Thirumala was like a detective, and he wouldn’t give up until he figured out what was wrong.”
It was Reck’s son, Chris Weber, and daughter, Cathy Weber, who led her to AGH. Chris contacted Cathy’s best friend, a pharmacist specializing in cardiac and pulmonary hypertension issues who had interned at AGH and connected her with the physicians there, including Lee.
“They’re extremely skilled. Dr. Lee is awesome. She’s patient and attentive, and spent time answering all
of my questions,” said Reck. “She’s humble and caring toward her patients, just so nice.”
Dr. Stephen Lee, chair of AHN Cardiovascular Institute, commended Lee and the multidisciplinary team on the milestone 100th PTE that saved Reck’s life.
“We’re extremely proud of Dr. Lee and her exceptional work in this rare field of medicine,” said Lee. More than three months into her recovery, Reck is spending as much time as she can with the people she loves, doing the things she loves.
She is delighted to be back in her garden, tending to her flowers.
She also has resumed iconography painting, where she is training under the tutelage of iconographer Michael Kapeluck of Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Carnegie.
She is thankful for the support she got from her husband, to whom she has been married for 30 years, her children, and her church family at St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Canonsburg, near Canonsburg Hospital.
Based on her experience, Reck now tells friends and loved ones to pay attention to their bodies.
“If you’re having symptoms, have them checked out. Don’t wait,” she said. “Being able to do the things I enjoy and be with the people I love brings me joy. I am so happy to still be here.”
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Bethel Artist Guild elected officers for the upcoming year. Pictured from left are: Kimberly Zahler, secretary; Judy Founds, vice president; Linda Baxendell, art display coordinator; and Judy Mur (seated), president. Not pictured is treasurer Peggy Rebecco. In its 60th year, the club supports local artists and members. The group meets at 12:30 p.m. the first Thursday of September, October and December at the Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Ave.
On Sept. 4, Jeanie Clayton Slater, a graphic designer and local South Hills artist, will be the guest speaker. Membership dues are $22 per year. For more details, visit Bethel Artist Guild’s Facebook page.
■ Jiu Jitsu on Mondays for ages 7 to 12 from 4:45 to 5:45 and for ages 13 to 17 from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Students learn the basics of the martial art through drills, exercises and training.
■ Martial Arts on Thursdays for ages 3 to 5 from noon to 12:45 p.m. and ages 6 to 12 from 6 to 7 p.m. Fee is $80 ($120 nonmembers). Uniforms cost $30 and orders are placed at first class.
■ 20/20/20: This cardio, weight work, balance, stability and core class is instructed by Hillary Echard and held at 4 p.m. Wednesdays. Fee is $70 ($105 nonmembers).
■ Registration is also being accepted for all one-day programs and sessions classes.
FITNESS
Fitness classes begin Sept. 2 at Westmin-
ster Presbyterian Church in Upper St. Clair.
The following are offered: Barre sculpt, cardio drumming, cardio drumming for Parkinson’s Disease, cardio strength fusion, gentle and flow yoga, Parkinson’s fitness classes, stronger bones/better balance, t’ai chi and Zumba. Visit wroc.westminster-church.org or call 412-835-6630 to register or further details.
ANIMAL SHOW
A Wild World of Animals kids show will be held at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 3 at the amphitheater in Peterswood Park. Admission is free. Visit www.peterstownship.com or call 724-9425000 for more details.
SH CHABAD
A Pre-High Holiday Seniors Lunch will be held at 1 p.m. Sept. 3 at the Chabad of the South Hills location at 1701 McFarland Road. Honey cake, holiday program and a talk on heart health will be featured. Suggested donation is $5. The event is wheelchair accessible. RSVP to 412-278-2658.
COLLEGE CLUB
The College Club of Carnegie resumes meetings on Sept. 6 at Scoglio's Restaurant in the Pinebridge Mall, located at 1580 Mc Laughlin Run Road, Suite 102, in Upper St. Clair. Social begins at 11:30 a.m. with luncheon served at noon. "Bingo Blitz" is the meeting and a 50/50 raffle will be held to benefit the club’s scholarship program. Women with post-secondary education should call 412-279-4458 for membership or further information.
SERVICE
The Bower Hill Community Church will hold a worship service commemorating its 75th anniversary at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 7 at 70 Moffett St. in Mt. Lebanon. Following the service will be a meal and activities. The church will hold additional commemorative celebrations in 2026. Visit bowerhillchurch.org for more details.
KAREN MANSFIELD/OBSERVER-REPORTER
The Almanac Classifieds on-line www.thealmanac.net
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Statelawsforbiddiscriminationinthesale,rental,oradvertisingof realestatebasedonfactorsinadditiontothoseprotectedunder federallaw.
Wewillnotknowinglyacceptanyadvertisingforrealestatewhichis inviolationofthelaw.Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellingsadvertisedareavailableonanequalopportunitybasis.
MT. LEBANON CEMETERY Companion crypt, lower level by Peaceful Fountain, location 13B, Level 4. New is $25,000. Selling for $18,500. Call Rose, 973-610-7726 or email: roseikelly@gmail.com
Covered front and kitchen porches.
DRUM set for beginners, excellent condition, $400 412-831-5704 Appliances
SprowlsCityAppliance 996 W.ChestnutSt.,Wash.,PA 724-225-5760 www.sprowlscity.com
firm. 412-334-3758
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2015 one owner, like new, 91,000 miles, $12,000 412-831-6456 LEXUS 2013 RX350 Black-on-Black - Odometer 212,000, Toyota certified master tech maintained, all records available. $7,000. 412-398-8963 LINCOLN 2018 MKZ - Beautiful maroon Lincoln with 115,000 miles. Everything works! Four new tires in May. State inspection good through October. Heated seats, steering wheel and rearview mirrors. Backup camera, navigation, XM Radio
Mercedes 2015 4 matic 4 door, seden 1 owner, 77,500 miles, $19,500 724-222-8340 OLDSMOBILE 1985 98 REGENCY BROUGHAM 2 owners, 58,000 miles with working air, no rust or accidents. Light grey paint is acceptable.
Autos
AUDI AUDI WASHINGTON
453 Racetrack Road,Washington, PA 866-414-9744
www.audiwashington.com
BUICK
BUDD BAER BUICK
83 Murtland Avenue, Washington, PA 724-249-6047 www.buddbaergm.com
SOLOMON BUICK 1777 McClellandtown Rd, McClellandtown, PA 724-602-4678 solomonautogroup.com
CHEVROLET
BORTZ CHEVROLET
249 Roy E. Furman Hwy. Waynesburg, PA 15370 724-627-6171 www.bortzchevy.com
COLUSSY CHEVROLET
3073 Washington Pk. Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-564-9829 www.colussy.com
SOLOMON CHEVROLET
1777 McClellandtown Rd, McClellandtown, PA 724-602-4678
www.solmonchevy.com
SUN CHEVROLET Route 19, McMurray, PA 724-941-5160
www.sunchevy.com
WASHINGTON CHEVROLET
Intersection of Rt. 19, I-79 & I-70, Exit 19A Washington, PA 724-222-2800 www.washingtonchevy.com
CHRYSLER
SOLOMON CHRYSLER Routes 40 & 43 Brownsville, PA 724-785-8000 www.solomonauto.com
SOLOMON CHRYSLER Routes 21 7 88 Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com
SOUTH HILLS CHRYSLER Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-4300
www.southhillsauto.com
DODGE ROTOLO’S DODGE 58 Route 88, North Charleroi, PA 15022 888-269-6183
www.rotolomotors.com
SOLOMON DODGE Routes 21 & 88 Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600
www.solomonauto.com
SOLOMON DODGE Routes 40 & 43 Brownsville, PA 724-785-8000 www.solomonauto.com
SOUTH HILLS DODGE Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-4300
www.southhillsauto.com
FIAT
SOUTH HILLS FIAT Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-4300 www.southhillsauto.com
FORD FOX FORD
743 E. High Street, Waynesburg, PA 724-627-3151 www.foxfordwaynesburg.com
SOLOMON FORD Routes 40 & 43 Brownsville, PA 724-785-5500 www.solomonauto.com
STAR LAKE FORD Main St., Burgettstown, PA 724-947-3381 www.starlakeford.com
WASHINGTON FORD 507 Washington Road, Rt. 19, Washington, PA 888-706-6128 www.washingtonford.com
GMC
BUDD BAER GMC 83 Murtland Ave. Washington Pa 724-249-6047 www.buddbaergm.com
SOLOMON GMC 1777 McClellandtown Rd, McClellandtown, PA 724-602-4678 solomonautogroup.com
HARLEY DAVIDSON
STEEL CITY HARLEY DAVIDSON 1375 Washington Road, Washington, PA 724-225-7020 www.steelcitymotorcycles.com
HONDA C. HARPER HONDA 106 Harper Drive Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-929-8000
Ext. 227 Chuck Calcek www.charperhonda.com
WASHINGTON HONDA Rt. 19, Strabane Square Washington, PA 15301 724-222-2213 www.washhonda.com
HYUNDAI
WASHINGTON HYUNDAI
305 WashingtonRd. Rt. 19 at Strabane Square Washington, PA 724-222-2216 www.washhyundai.com
JEEP
ROTOLO’S JEEP 58 Route 88, North Charleroi, PA 15022 888-269-6183 www.rotolomotors.com
SOLOMON JEEP Routes 21 & 88, Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com
SOLOMON JEEP Routes 40 & 43, Brownsville, PA 724-785-8000 www.solomonauto.com
SOUTH HILLS JEEP Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-4300 www.southhillsauto.com
KIA
SOUTH HILLS KIA Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-942-3000 www.southhillsauto.com
LINCOLN
SOUTH HILLS LINCOLN Route 19, McMurray, PA 724-941-1600 www.southhillslincoln.net
MAZDA
BUDD BAER MAZDA 83 Murtland Avenue, Washington, PA 724-993-4430 www.buddbaermazda.com
MERCEDES-BENZ
JOHN SISSON MERCEDES-BENZ
470 Washington Road Adjacent to Gabriel’s, 724-206-6000 www.johnsissonmercedes.com
NISSAN
JOHN SISSON NISSAN
470 Washington Road Adjacent to Gabriel’s, Washington, PA 724-223-8600 www.johnssissonnissan.com
RAM
ROTOLO’S RAM 58 Route 88, North Charleroi, PA 15022 888-269-6183 www.rotolomotors.com
SOLOMON RAM Routes 21 & 88 Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com
SOLOMON RAM Routes 40 & 43 Brownsville, PA 724-785-8000 www.solomonauto.com
SOUTH HILLS RAM Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-4300 www.southhillsauto.com
SUBARU
BUDD BAER SUBARU 71 Murtland Avenue, Washington, PA 724-222-0700 www.buddbaersubaru.com
TOYOTA
SOUTH HILLS TOYOTA 2403 Washington Road Canonsburg, PA 15317 724-743-1144 www.southhillstoyota.com VOLKSWAGEN
THREE RIVERS VOLKSWAGEN 3694 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-6100 www.3riversvw.com
Pre-owned dealers
#1 COCHRAN PREOWNED MARKETPLACE 150 Racetrack Road Washington, PA 412-349-1794 www.cochran.com
PREMIERE AUTO SALES 667 E. Maiden St., Washington, PA 724-223-0600 www.premiereautosales.com
RT. 18 HOMES AUTO SALES 940 Henderson Ave., Washington, PA 724-225-5308 www.18autosales.com
it’s just plain ugly, give us a call. We do all types of home repairs and home improvements. We specialize in carpentry, decks, kitchens, baths, floors and interior painting. We fix houses. Call Greg, 412-513-5012 30 Years Experience. A division of Topper
THREE RIVERS AUTO SALES 30 South Central Avenue Canonsburg, PA 15317 724-338-2923 www.3riversvw.com
TREGEMBO MOTORS I-70 Exit 32B, Bentleyville, PA 724-239-2200 www.tregembomotors.com
WARNE MOTORS INC. 107 East Pike Street Canonsburg, PA 724-746-5956 www.johnwarnemotors.com
