Return to ‘Glory’
Refurbished flagpole, new flag to be dedicated in Canonsburg
By Paul Paterra Staff writer ppaterra@observer-reporter.com
Christopher Staud has long had a fascination with flags.
So much so, in fact, that he decided to restore the 90-foot flagpole at the Pennsylvania Transformer Technology property in Canonsburg and add a new American flag during a ceremony on Flag Day. The flagpole was erected there in 1953, but was in need of refurbishment. The new 25-by-15-foot flag will be called “The Flag Over East End.”
“I saw this flagpole on my porch one day and told (my fiancee) I was going to
New South Park ice cream shop serving up Penn State ice cream
By Rick Shrum For the Observer-Reporter
rshrum@observer-reporter.com
Randy Stetor was amazed that one of the first customers at the ice cream parlor he and his wife, Debra Galob, had opened had arrived from Ambridge. It’s a 28-mile commute to Bethel Park.
“I asked why,” Stetor said, chortling at the realization there are probably more than 28 such shops en route.
“The man said, ‘This is closer than State College.’” Such is the reputation of ice cream and sherbets manufactured at Penn State Berkey Creamery in University Park, on the Penn State campus, and are now being served at the recently christened Flora Park Creamery.
Located a half-dozen waffle cones off Corrigan Drive, near the entrance to South Park,
SF man repairs flag holders at veteran gravesites
By Jon Andreassi Staff writer
jandreassi@observer-reporter.com
Last year on Memorial Day, Dean Stewart noticed that many of the flags marking the graves of veterans at Robinson’s Run Cemetery were falling over.
Bob Moreau, superintendent of the McDonald graveyard, said Stewart offered a fix.
“He approached me and said he noticed a lot of the flag holders were loose, the tops were stripped and falling off,” Moreau said. “We started pulling them a dozen at a time.” Stewart, of South Fayette Township, said his father, along with many other relatives and close friends, are buried at Robinson’s Run.
“It just irritated the heck out of me when I saw the flags touching the ground,” Stewart said.
He estimates that he repaired close to 300 flag holders at the
“People say they live their lives and don’t have any regrets, and I think that’s a Dean Stewart repaired about 300 flag holders at the resting places of veterans at Robinson’s Run Cemetery in McDonald.
cemetery. For Stewart, the project was a way to honor the veterans resting there.
Fun at the field
Rom Pezzone, right, and his brother, Vinny, race from home plate to the pitcher’s mound at a baseball field located along McLaughlin Run Road. The siblings hope to emulate their father someday. Michael Pezzone played baseball at Upper St. Clair High School. He said watching his sons brought back memories and that showing his children, including Leo, his “old stomping grounds,” they would enjoy the athletic programs the community offers as he did.
PAUL PATERRA/OBSERVER-REPORTER
With the new flag that will be dedicated June 14 are, from left, Dave Rhome, mayor of Canonsburg; Dennis Blake, general manager of Pennsylvania Transformer Technology; Pam Florian, human resources director; Eric Miller, Canonsburg councilman, and Christopher Staud, co-founder of the Forgotten Flag Foundation.
COURTESY OF CHRISTOPHER STAUD
Two bullets, two razor blades and two matches will be placed in the truck of the refurbished flagpole.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ROBINSON’S RUN CEMETERY
One of the flag holders at Robinson’s Run
ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Spouses Debra Galob and Randy Stetor are selling Penn State Berkey ice cream at their shop.
that flag needs to come back active. It celebrates the men and women, the veterans here in Canonsburg, the men and women who worked here.”
put a flag on it,” said the Canonsburg resident. “I decided to start a foundation moving forward to refurbish forgotten flags in the community such as this one.”
Staud, a 10-year U.S. Army veteran, is co-founder, with fiancee Rachel Weaver, of the Forgotten Flag Foundation, which is committed to restoring and improving flag displays across the country.
“I’ve been trying to give back to the community and veterans and to raise patriotism throughout the community,” Staud said. “This was a calling.”
The foundation’s mission is to educate and inspire citizens on the importance of honoring the flag and displaying it with pride. Staud said membership sits at “two dozen and growing every day.”
Staud said the cost of the project cost just under $30,000, raised through donations and fundraisers.
Restoration work was handled by Unique Services & Applications of Pittsburgh.
The new flag will be dedicated at 10 a.m. on Flag Day, June 14, in the lot of Sarris Candies, in front of Sam’s Pizza Shop. The flag will be raised at the Pennsylvania Transformer property.
The Canonsburg VFW Post 191 Honor Guard will present a 21-gun salute, and the Young Marines will raise the flag. The guest of honor will be Jim Hanna, a World War II veteran from Canonsburg who will turn 101 the week of the ceremony.
“We plan to have a daylong community event to promote patriotism and honor veterans by bringing the great people of Canonsburg as one,” Staud said.
Mayor Dave Rhome said Staud approached him a couple months ago about being involved in the flag restoration.
”This flagpole has not been in operation for well over 30 years,” said Rhome. “It’s just so fitting that we recognize that
The flag will be illuminated with three powerful light standards.
“The hope and the dream is to celebrate it with lighting that will be on at all times,” Rhome said.
“You’ll be able to see it all around East End, for sure,” Staud added.
Rhome said the project was met with enthusiasm by Pennsylvania Transformer.
Dennis Blake, general manager, said the flagpole had been blocked by trees, so he was not aware of its existence during his 28 years with the company.
“We got pretty excited about it,” Blake said. “We just started clearing out all of the trees and making space.
Our new company, Quanta (Services Inc), which bought us about a year ago, is very big into veterans. They were out here the other day and said they wanted to make it look nice.”
Councilman Eric Miller has been working with Staud on the project.
“He came to me about this in March and I told him I’d do whatever he needs to help support him and get to where we are,” Miller said.
Staud said the truck –which is the finial or ball –at the top of the flagpole will contain a bullet, razor blade and match, in keeping with military tradition. Legend has it that the last survivor of an enemy attack is tasked with using the razor blade to cut up the flag and the match to burn it properly. The bullet would be used for the soldier’s defense or to shoot himself to avoid capture. Staud opted to put two of each of the items inside, for good measure.
“You don’t even know (how exciting this is),” Staud said. “I’ve had to stop and just enjoy it. It just opened the door for how happy it makes me for everybody to see this.”
”THIS FLAGPOLE HAS NOT BEEN IN OPERATION FOR WELL OVER 30 YEARS. IT’S JUST SO FITTING THAT WE RECOGNIZE THAT THAT FLAG NEEDS TO COME BACK ACTIVE.” DAVE RHOME, MAYOR OF CANONSBURG
Repairs
lie,” Stewart said. “One of the things I have regretted is not serving the country. This in no way makes up for that, but the flags are sticking up straight.” According to Moreau, veterans from conflicts dating back to the Revolutionary War are buried at Robinson’s Run.
He said that the flag holders falling into disrepair has been a common issue.
“We’ve been dealing with it for years. We’re up on a hill, the wind blows constantly,” Moreau said. Stewart described the problem as an “easy fix.” He reinforced the holders with two stainless steel nuts, and
used Loctite on the threaded rod.
“If you put Loctite on a thread, once it is set you have to heat that nut up to 300 degrees to get it to screw. I don’t think any of them will loosen up now,” Stewart said.
With the ease of the repair, Stewart thinks fixing these flag holders would be a worthwhile endeavor for Eagle Scouts looking for a project.
“I would be happy to teach them how to do it. I think that would be really cool for a kid to do,” Stewart said.
When Stewart visited Robinson’s Run this past Memorial Day, he was happy to see there were no longer flags touching the ground.
“To me, all the soldiers out there were standing at attention,” Stewart said.
Bikers give new South Park skills area a spin
By Jill Thurston Staff writer jthurston@observer-reporter.com
South Park has a new community resource for mountain bike and BMX riders: a skills area to practice navigating the trails and progress in their riding ability.
Trail Pittsburgh has worked with Allegheny County on two specialty areas, one in North Park and now one in South Park.
“We want to encourage as many people as possible to really get outside, be active, and support progression so they are more comfortable going in from a beginner trail all the way up to an expert level trail,” said Michael Carroll, board president and volunteer for Trail Pittsburgh.
A nonprofit, Trail Pittsburgh is involved in creating and preserving single-track trail experiences in Southwestern Pennsylvania parks. The volunteer organization works hand-in-hand with city and county parks.
“The skills parks really represent a safe way to start that progression, whether or not it’s the dirt jumps that you see, or one of the advanced skills, or even just beginners coming out learning to ride, learning
to navigate some of the obstacles they might find on our regional trails, ” said Carroll.
The Skills Park, located adjacent to the wave pool parking lot, officially opened May 10 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“Allegheny County is proud to expand recreational opportunities with this bike skills park, offering free access to riders of all skill levels, allowing everyone, from beginners
to experts, to come, learn, and progress in a vibrant commu
nity space.” County Executive Sara Innamorato said at the opening.
Trail Pittsburgh partnered with Ramp Union, fabricators in dirt-trail space, and ramp builder Burly Built. “We did it out of materials that have longevity. The skills area will be consistent not just today, but in a decade and further, so it’s really a community resource,”
“It was a
The
is
at no cost.
FROM PAGE A1
Flora Park Creamery opened May 10, the day before Mother’s Day, and has been doing a brisk business, Stetor said. “The first two weeks, we sold over 15,000 scoops.”
The shop offers 24 flavors, which will be rotated every few weeks. Top sellers early on have been Grilled Stickies and Death by Chocolate.
The couple adopted the Creamery name, but their endeavor is not affiliated with the Berkey operation. A manager at Berkey explained during a telephone interview that “we allow different vendors and shops to scoop our ice cream, and they can say they sell Penn State ice cream. But there is no affiliation. We don’t know where the other stores are.”
Berkey has been around, for sure. The original Creamery has been producing ice cream since the late 1800s.
taken on a second full-time job.
“We rent property from the Allegheny County Parks Department,” Galob said.
But before embarking on that new journey, this couple from Upper St. Clair had to fashion a business plan and begin to execute it. “When we opened, we knew nothing about the food industry,” Stetor said.
also plan to install a walk-in freezer.
“Debra did all of the designing,” Stetor said of the transformation into a brightly lit, fashionable shop with comfortable seating space.
however, are pleased with where they are.
“We keep it simple: No milkshakes or slushies. It’s one, two or three scoops and keep moving, Stetor said. “You also can sample anything you want.“ Ice cream or floral, there are no hints of an employee shortage at this mini-complex. The owners said they have 45 employees who can work at one or the other or both businesses.
Garden center workers previously could have been subject to layoffs during the offseason, when the facility shuts down, but now can pick up hours at the Creamery.
One of them, Jordan Barber, a Bethel Park High graduate, said he wanted to work at the garden center, but is now pleased to have picked up “a lot of hours” inside the ice cream shop.
Stetor and Galob now own and operate two adjacent businesses: the Creamery and Flora Park Garden Center, on the same side of Corrigan as the ice rink, in an area with ample parking. They have run the garden center for six years, and now each has essentially
“We want employees to be excited to be here,” Galob said. “And we will work around your schedule,” Stetor added. They may be doubly busy now, but this couple is pleased with how things are transpiring. Galob and Stetor said they enjoy engaging with the community through the garden center, where they also have organized kids’ events. Now, with an ice cream parlor, they will likely become more involved. Shop
Preparations for the Creamery were many, including completion of permits; refurbishing a building that once housed Woods Café, but had been unoccupied for seven years; and purchasing or leasing equipment. They
The couple currently rents two refrigeration trucks, which they use to drive to State College to pick up Creamery products. They had planned to make that excursion once a month, but demand apparently caused them to do so weekly.
Ice cream shops are prevalent along Route 88 and much of the South Hills, so there is a formidable amount of competition. Creamery’s owners,
-
Carroll said. Cleveland Brothers CAT helped clear the site and the county brought in more than 100 truckloads of dirt for the area. Carroll also credits the hundreds of volunteers who came out to clear the space and make it rideable.
huge community effort to get us this far,” Caroll said.
area
open to the public
COURTESY OF MURPHY MOSCHETTA
The South Park skills area gives riders a place to work on their trail riding skills.
It is dessert time for the Phillips family of Bethel Park: from left, Brayden, Sloane, Jess and Ben.
PHOTOS: RICK SHRUM/FOR THE OBSERVER-REPORTER
ABOVE LEFT: Jordan Barber, right, and Berona Willetts, both of Bethel Park, work the counter at Flora Park Creamery. ABOVE RIGHT: Victoria Hoffman of Bethel Park, a great-niece of the owners, works at Flora Park Creamery before returning to the University of Delaware for her senior year.
Congratulations Class of 2025
Kamola
Leah
Nevaeh
✦ Class of 2025 ✦
Jack Riley Creasy
Sebastian Chance Crosby Christian Domiano Crowley
Evan Robert Cyprowski
Kylie Reese Langbein-Nestor
Daniel Joseph Lanuka
Jayden A Larrow
Brady Matthew Laughlin
Dylan Thomas Lawrence
Honoring CHARTIERS VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Dylan Michael Czarnecki
Abigail Sari Daffner
Brendan Patrick Daley
Jayden Mikal Davis
Nataleigh Paige Davis
Tyler John Delgrande
Mikayla Belle Diyanni
Hunter Joseph Dolatowski
Dion Richard Drewery
Caitlin Sarah Du
Nathan Phillip Emerick
Nicolas Daniel Evangelista
Gwenyth Frances Evans
Nathan Michael Fantoni
Jake Edward Federouch
Joseph Benjamin Ferenacz
Ivy Grace Ferrand
Marissa Helen Fitzgerald
Ayden Joseph Foltz
Hayden James Ford
Shane Anthony Frederick
Yeiga Benaiah
Logan David Benson
Juliana Claire Betts
Aidan Josef Blocher
Rachel Ann Boehm
Dalton Lamont Broadus
Abdul-Wahhaab Bin Bernard Brooks
Carly Samantha Buck
Robert Earl Burkholder
Payton Kathryn Burrell
Patrick William Byerly
Kayla Brynn Campbell
Caleb James Capicotto
Joseph Arnold Carder
Talan Anthony Carilli
Sawyer Quint Carlo
Luis Miguel Carrizal Morales
Jared Anthony Cascio
Jacob Anthony Chudicek
Austin Rose Ciptak
Nermin Citci
Gracie Clellen
Howard Hanning Clellen
Natalie Rose Coates
Matthew Paul Colberg
Faith Mayda Coleman
Hunter Michael Colon
Logan Patrick Connolly
Evan Matthew Conroy
Addison Lynn Cousley
Isabella Mackenzie Crawford
Oscar Uriel Garcia
Jonathan David Garside
Sire Lea Matthew Ghelarducci
Marco Edward Giammatteo
Drake Kristopher Golden
Lily Rose Gorchock
Brianna Elizabeth Gray
Evan Michael Grimes Madison Hadix
Dillon Vaughn Harris
Hevin Aliveya Harvard
Addison Marie Hawk
Alexis Elizabeth Heather Annabelle Rose Helt
Ethan Franklin Henderson Braden Alexander Hoover
Madison Lee Huber
Alexandrea Rain Huff
Danish Hussain Kerem Ilhan
Grace Catherine Janco
Kathleen Grace Johnson
Victoria Sara Le
Dawson Dongseok Lee
Nevaeh Theresa Denien Lowery
Wesley John Madge
Isabella Mia Marinacci
Landon Christian Michael Markwell
Cameron Gary Marshall-Ciminel
Ruby Jane Mascellino
Gianna Corleta Mastropietro
Jacob Scott Maszgay
Christopher Joseph Mayfield
Brooke Noel McCabe
Rachel Lynn McDade
Riley Jo McDade
Noah Raymond McFadden
Kenneth Blaine McFerron
Kelsi Ann McKenna
Julian Matthew McMinn
Declan Thomas McQuaide
Jameson Matthew McVay
Jackson Vladimir Medvid
Anika Joy Joling
Patrik Jurisic Jacob Peter Kaltz
Tamerlan Kapitonov
Emma Jordan Kendrew
Oygul Khushbokova
Janelle Marie King
Charlotte Mary Kinslow
Brady Andrew Kiszer
Rajan Patel Kopec
Emily Margaret Korczyk
Matthew Robert Kowatic
Luca Domenico Kraft
John Michael Krug
Kaitlyn Rebecca Kuczinski
Ava Marie Kulasa
Emerson Rae Kutschbach
Shania Syombua Kyatha
Mallorie Mahree LaGamba
Samuel George Romanias
Zackary Paul Rutkowski
Lauren Jaymes Sams
Destinee Mae Lashae Santana
Orlando Mark Schafer
Kloe Madison Merrell
Alexandria Lyn Michelucci
Matthew James Mickle
Grace Mary Misitis
Luke Christopher Mitchell
Roberto James Modelo
David Michael Moehring
Simon Joseph Moore
Shyann Faith Moore
Kaiya Quinn Morrison
Tristin Samuel Mulligan Azizbek Murodullaev
Caelyn Anne Murray
Xavier Njogu Mwaura
Aislinn Grace Myrah
Nicholas Joseph Nadolny
Brady Christopher Nairn
Zeyne Elshadovich Nazimov
Robert Corbin Netting
Kevin Nguyen
Skye Grace Schmidt
Christian Robert Schmitt
Connor James Schulzendorf
Maura Therese Schuman Autumn
Lily Elizabeth Nixon
Fia Jude Novak-Bruni
Delaney Grace O’Connor
Daniel James Oliver
Irene Alexandra Oropeza-Rivas
Kay Irene Owens
Iyla Pelin Ozbey
Dominic David Pagliari
Chanel Brianne Paige
Natalia Noelle Palumbo
Mukhammadsolikh Pardaev
Gabriella Joan Paree
James Dominic Pavlic
Lascionna Renee Payne
Jesus Deivis Pulger-Gutierrez
Ryan Ahmad Raja
Durdona Dilshod Kizi Rakhimberdieva
Siah Jae Reason
Emma Jeanne Reynolds
Ethan Richard Roach
Gleason Groninger
Meredith Ann Grote
Caleb William Guarino
Saajin Singh Laffin
Ryan Louis LaRocco
Esha Lathia
Brody Lee Latiolais
Hayden Joy Lazar
Jackson Leco
Oscar Paul Leimkuehler
Cassidy Rose Guarino
Maya Guizzi
Kriti Bala Gupta
Anastasia R. Gzikowski
Nathan Michael Haberman
Addison Aubrey Haerr
Samuel Andreas Hajdu
Maya Leilani Hamade
Alison Dawn Hanna Hudson Van Healey
Van Patrick Hellmann
Jacob Rich Higgs
Ryan Edwin Hines
Jennifer Mae Holderby
Tyler Michael Holt
Grace Maria Howell
Logan Elizabeth Hufnagel
Megan Grace Hufnagel
Meredith Reese Huzjak
Ryan Michael Hyatt
Chengran Li
Leo Qitong Li
Jacob Nicholas Lilja
Noah Paul Lilja
Drew Matthew Lisak
Julio Cesar William Lopez
Owen Matthew Lusk
Ella Marie Mackovich
Ari Alfred Madaras
Helly Paragbhai Makadia
Harshvardhan V. Mali
Mia Angelina Manalo
Juana Hailey Basco Manansala
Eli Matthew Mandler
Nicolaus Thomas Marchando
Mia Sonya Marino
Elizabeth Mary Marsh
Alyssa Mary Massimino
Kesahi Mathanachandran
Dylan Lane McCarthy
Kaamil Miguel Jackson
Sofia Margarete Jahn
Michael Ian James
Patrick Timothy Jamison
Charles Everett Janz
Yuxiang Jiang
Jiya Jithosh
Rylee Shannon Kalocay
Abhi Rajeshkumar Kanani
Ava Rose Kasper
Ashton Joseph Kearns
Maria Anna Khila
Shawn Jay Khurana
Ava Nichole Kiester
Sofia Karolena Kilzer
Annabelle Rose Kirk
Paige Marie Holt Kline
Esther Elizabeth Knight
Yelena Knobel
Caroline Elizabeth Kobeski
Laasya Kommineni
Madison Marie Kovacs
Raegan Marleah Kuhn
Aaryan Kumar
Tayla Sharee Kurzawa
Tyler Adams McClintock-Comeaux
Adam Thomas McFeeley
Peyton Elizabeth McGregor
Peyton John McIntyre
Connor Regis McKenzie
Mazell Elizabeth McTeer
Rohan Mehta
Andrew Jacob Michalewsky
Austin Ryan Middleton
Hailey Jean Miller
Opal Caroline Miller
Roshan Mishra
Drake Thomas Mitchell
Sydney Alexis Montgomery
Riley Jean Moorhead
Liam Joseph Moriarty
Alana Christine Morse
Ava Marie Mosler
Stella Ann Moss
Owen Thomas Mucho
Liam Joseph Mulhern
Davis William Mull
Benjamin Thomas Murtough
Mea Elizabeth Musillo
Grace Marie Myers
Shriya
Riti
Aubrey Nicole Nist Komel Hunaid Nulwala Matthew Patrick O’Connor
Madeleine Grace Oliva
Luciana Sofia Olshanski
Hope Elizabeth O’Neill
Ian Harrison Orsag
Sofia Osto
Israel Alexander Parra
Elise Olivia Parrish
Manav Manish Patel
John Michael Pattinato
Drake Snyder Pattison
Aubrey Melia Pechart
Armen Nicholas Pettit
Lydia Anne Pistorius
Anderson James Ploeger
Angela Kay Plouffe
Ari Joseph Plutko
Ryan Charles Popp
Bryce Willam Potter
Emily Nola Powell
Molly Corrine Powell
Evan John Proud
John Paul Rainone
Ryan James Ranalli
Hannah Elizabeth Randolph
Eli Gabriel Rankin
Shresht Rawat
Holden Tw Rickel
Sarah Eve Ripley
Kaitlyn Nichole Ritson
Violet Catherine Rizer
Tyler Matthew Robbins
Zoe Alena Roberts
Alexa Marie Rohrich
Claire Vaughn Rosenberry
Benjamin John Ross Humberto Ruiz Lopez
Colin Michael Rump
Ryahna Marie Russo
Carlee Evelyn Santel
Roshan Satheesh Kumar
Meredith Ann Rhodes
Mikayla Arabella Rice
Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar
Joseph William Sawyer
Jack Edward Schalk
Benjamin Carl Schnore
Eitan Locketz Schwartz
Benjamin Andrew Seewald
Jillian Elizabeth Seftchick
Kaarthikha Senthilkumar
Aden Ali Shah
Daniel Hallums Shanholtzer
Eleanor Hallums Shanholtzer
Anushka Sharma
Ishaan Sharma
Aidan James Shaw
Addyson Elizabeth Shedd
Erin Irene Shehab
Maxim-Levi Grigoriy Shevchenko
Esther Sheyko
Yuhong Shi
Dante Thomas-Steele Shipp
Carly Mary Shontz
Nicholas Patrick Sinclair
Thomas Walter Slowey
Abigail Joy Smith
Luke Eric Smith
Valentina Sobarzo Hernandez
Jeffrey Song
Sarah Wynne Spencer
Shreya Sriram
Logan William Stafford
James Cletus Stalder
Joshua Dimitri Stamoolis
Jonathan Carter Stein
Sidney N. Stevenson
Isabella Lydon Stewart
Shreya Shokeen
Nathaniel Gordon Stohl
Marley Rose Super
Suhaan Sutariya
Shreeva Jiva Sutreja
Alexander Avellana Swanson
Katherine Jane Sweeney
Hunter Talai
Guo Tang
Lauren Marie Tanner
Auri Bryce Zuhier Tarabishy
Anna Rose Taube
Olivia Marie Terlecki
Nikhita Thakuria
Brennan Anthony Thomas
Lily Grace Thompson
Aidan James Tobin
Ian Michael Tobin
William Tomb
Griffin Ryan Tomsheck
Emma Maryam Toosi
Michael Jadon Tran
Marcus Roman Tranquilli
John Nicholas Tripodes
Alexander Tucker
Divya Jyothi Udhayakumar
Akhil Saikrishna Vajjala
Ian James Vaughn Piya Vekariya
Isabel Talia Vilensky
Darcy Maurice Vilkner
Thomas Daniel Vilushis
Avery Noel Vinay
Benjamin Michael Waldron
Sydney Rose Waldron
Molly Ann Walsh
Cameron Ann Wasson
Madison Elizabeth Webb
Bailey Addison Wells
Brayden Chase Wells
Logan Allyn Wells
Skyler Victoria Wenk
Mason R. West
Sophia Grace Whitman
Michael Charles Williamson
William Stroyd Windsor
Lucas Michael Wright
Nathan Christopher Wyke
Dylan Michael Yealy
Dane Samuel York
Lana Nozomi Yorty
Jack Timothy Yurcich
Kobe Charles Yuyi
Abigail Rose Zahalsky
Hannah LI Zheng
Karen Mansfield Eleanor Bailey Brad Hundt
O-R, Almanac win 3 Golden Quills
PITTSBURGH – The Observer-Reporter and The Almanac received three Press Club of Western Pennsylvania Golden Quill Awards May 28 at Rivers Casino, Pittsburgh. The Golden Quills competition, in its 61st year, honors professional and student excellence in print, broadcast, photography, videography and digital journalism in Western Pennsylvania and nearby counties in Ohio and West Virginia.
Observer-Reporter staff writer Karen Mansfield won for her news feature in the medical/health division, “20 years on, fracking’s potential impact on health eyed,” which examined impacts of Marcellus shale drilling on health in the region.
THE GOLDEN QUILLS COMPETITION, IN ITS 61ST YEAR, HONORS PROFESSIONAL AND STUDENT EXCELLENCE IN PRINT, BROADCAST, PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEOGRAPHY AND DIGITAL JOURNALISM.
Staff writer Brad Hundt received a Golden Quill for a trio of editorials, including, “On the 50th anniversary of his resignation, we can see Nixon as a tragic figure,” “We should welcome Haitians who ‘just want to belong,’” and “The federal government may be powerful, but it can’t control the weather.”
Eleanor Bailey, sports editor for The Almanac, won for
her sports story, “O’Korn forges future for female wrestlers at PT,” which profiled female wrestler Grace O’Korn, who wrestled for Peters Township High School. Bailey also received a nomination for “South Fayette’s Schepis defies cancer to play baseball.”
Nominated for an award was the Observer-Reporter staff for its series, “Shale Revolution: Looking back on 20 years of gas drilling.”
Staff writer Mike Jones was a finalist for his feature, “Reemergence of 206-yearold Great Crossings Bridge draws thousands to Yough Lake.”
Mansfield and staff writer Paul Paterra were finalists for their news feature, “Charleroi immigrant population thrust into limelight.”
Also during the awards ceremony, the Press Club presented the President’s Award to David Newell, aka Mr. “Speedy Delivery” McFeely on “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” while Duquesne University journalism professor Maggie Jones Patterson received the Service to Journalism Award.
SHOWING UP
Kambitsis leads Mt. Lebanon to PIAA win
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
ebailey@thealmanac.net
After Kris Kambitsis scored five goals to lead Mt. Lebanon to victory, 14-7, over Penn Manor in the first round of the PIAA Class 3A boys lacrosse playoffs, it was difficult to discern who was happiest about the performance. Kambitsis, his teammates or Blue Devil head coach Mike Ermer.
“I love that kid. His positivity,” Ermer said. “He showed up every day and worked hard. He did the little things he needed to do and for it to pay off like that was really special. It made me really happy.”
Kambitsis was delighted especially because it was only his second game back after sustaining a hamstring injury at the start of the season.
“It feels great. Feels great,” he emphasized. “I think I played pretty well.
“It’s so great to be back out here with my boys. It was such a freak accident and I have been hurt all year,” he added.”It had taken a long time to heal. It was rough but I kept at it.”
Kambitsis first game back this season came during Mt. Lebanon’s dramatic triumph over Shady Side Academy, 12-11, in the WPIAL Class 3A championship game on May 22. Next he spearheaded the win over the Comets on June 3 at Bethel Park High School stadium.
He registered a hat trick in the first 12 minutes as Lebo opened up a 5-3 lead. He tacked on two more tallies in the fourth frame as the Blue Devils cruised to their largest lead, 14-6. Max Prezioso, the hero of the WPIAL final, set up the two tallies.
“I give credit to all my teammates,” Kambitsis said. “They really make it happen for me. They made some good passes for me.”
In addition to his two assists, Prezioso scored a goal in the victory. Garrett
Cramer and Lukas Biles each supplied a tally and an assist.
Brenton Thompson, Xavier Bias, Sam McAuley, Keagan Green, Nicholas Zundel and Ty Pirain completed the goal-scoring for the Blue Devils.
For Penn-Manor, Grant Bradburn led the attack with two goals and five assists. Elijah Garland, Cooper Bradburn, Peyton Englert, Ayden Horn and Williard Smith scored the other goals.
With the win, Lebo improved to 17-4 overall and advanced to the quarterfinals of the state tournament. The June 7 showdown against Radnor (18-4) at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Park in
Mechanicsburg was a quicker but more welcome turnaround for the Blue Devils than their 12-day layoff from winning their district championship.
“Coming off a WPIAL championship is a real challenge. You are coming off the highest of highs,” said Ermer. “When the whistle blew, the guys showed up and reacted well.”
In Class 2A state playoff action, South Fayette (20-1) defeated Meadville, 23-2, and advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament. The Lions were scheduled to play undefeated Trinity (21-0) on June 7 at Penn State University.
BP blasts Dubois in PIAA baseball
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
ebailey@thealmanac.net
Bethel Park embarked on
PIAA Class 5A baseball tournament play on June 2 by beating host Dubois, 15-1, at Showers Field.
The game was halted after the fifth inning because of the 10-run mercy rule. It was Bethel Park’s second straight win by a lopsided margin, having beaten Petes Township, 17-1, in the WPIAL consolation contest to determine state seedings.
“Our success at the plate is a combination of players continuing to bet 1 percent better mechanically and mentally
each day and having seven to eight guys that are swinging very hot bats right now,” said BP manager Patrick Zehnder. “We are producing from all areas of the lineup.” In the triumph, the Black Hawks banged out 13 hits while the pitching of Owen White, Matthew Hughes and Dylan Paul combined for the win on the mound. “I am proud of the way the guys continue to bring the energy and intensity throughout the physically demanding playoffs,” Zehnder said. “After long bus rides and practices, they find ways to stay motivated and energized when we need it.”
White allowed three hits in three frames. He struck out four and walked two. Hughes and Paul fired one inning each, striking out two apiece and allowing no hits.
Mike Bruckner and Ethan Stanhoff led the offensive attack.
Bruckner clubbed three doubles and drove in four runs.
Stanhoff had five RBI. He smashed two doubles. His two-run double snapped a scoreless game in the top of the third. He added a base-clearing two-bagger that stretched BP’s advantage to 6-1 in the top of the fourth.
Lebo survives New Oxford’s best punch
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net
Mt. Lebanon’s PIAA Class 3A playoff game against New Oxford mirrored a boxing bout rather than a lacrosse match. The Colonials delivered plenty of blows, however, they could not deliver the knockout as Lebo survived the first round with a 13-12 triumph.
“We take a lot of punches but we keep going,” said Lebo’s head coach Brian Kattan. “It wasn’t our prettiest game but we won.
“Our hats are off to New Oxford. They played really, really hard. It’s not easy coming off a bus after four hours and then sitting around watching a boys game. They played their hearts out and did a nice job.”
The Colonials opened up a 2-0 lead in the game’s opening four minutes and the Lebo girls found themselves fighting back the entire match. They did not take their first lead until Grace Manning scored her third goals in a row between 11:08 in the second stanza and at the 8:51 mark in the third quarter.
McKenna Johnston answered with two of her four tallies within 11 seconds apart giving New Oxford the lead again before Ireland McFarland and Cali Green responded with two tallies each.
The back-to-back goals provided a three-goal cushion for the Blue Devils, 11-8, at the 4:56 mark in the third quarter.
“Cali is a warrior. She’s always out there. Very little rest,” Kattan said. “She takes draws on the circle and gets back on defense. She does a nice job and you can count on her for the big goal when it’s time.”
Kattan was equally pleased with McFarland, who transferred into the school district from Canon-McMillan. “Ire-
land has done a great job, too. We are happy to have her.”
The Blue Devils are delighted to have Lucy Pryor in the lineup as well. A junior attack, she scored two goals and added nine draw controls.
“Lucy is unbelievable,” Kattan said. “You can always count on her with the draw controls. She is so quick off the line and does a great job.” Quinn Murdoch did the honors of putting the Colonials away. She scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal, off an assist from Kat Walters, with 4:03 remaining. Murdoch finished with a hat trick and an assist.
Nina Grago drew praise from Kattan for her goalkeeping.
“She made some great saves, especially at the end of the third quarter,” he noted. “That was a big one there.”
Vivi Warhola had the big play in the waning seconds after Johnston had pulled the Colonials within a goal of tying the match. Warhola’s effort was indicative of Lebo’s performance all year.
“Vivi lost the ball in the last 20 seconds but got it back. That’s what we have always done,” Kattan said. “We don’t hang our heads. We get the ball back.
“The girls never gave up. We’ve learned that about ourselves over the season. Our freshmen and sophomores have like 20 games under their belt, so they aren’t rookies anymore. They know what they are doing. They don’t give up on themselves. They don’t drop their heads. We just fight back.”
The Blue Devils battled to play another day. With the win, they improved to 16-3 overall and advanced to face Bishop Shanahan (20-3) in the quarterfinals on June 7.
ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Quinn Murdoch (31) makes her move against a New Oxford defender. The junior scored three goals, including the game winner, during Mt. Lebanon’s 13-12 victory over the Colonials in the first round of the PIAA playoffs.
PHOTOS: ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Max Prezioso protects the ball while being covered by a Penn Manor defender. Prezioso scored a goal and dished up two assists in helping Mt. Lebanon beat the Comets, 14-7, in the first round of the PIAA Class 3A lacrosse playoffs.
Garrett Cramer works his way around a Penn Manor defender and scores a goal in Mt. Lebanon’s 14-7 victory during first-round state playoff action.
ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Patrick Zehnder has Bethel Park in the quarterfinals of the PIAA Class 5A baseball tournament after a 15-1 win against Dubois.
McConnell signs with Phoenix Mercury
On the cusp of her brother competing in the NBA championships, Megan McConnell signed a contract with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury.
McConnell inked her contract on June 3 while T.J. McConnell embarked on his title quest with the Indiana Pacers on June 5 against the highly-favored Oklahoma Thunder. As a result, the two joined a rare group of siblings playing professionally. The McConnells are one of three active sister-brother duos in the NBA and WNBA.
McConnell also became one of only three players in Duquesne University women’s basketball history to make an active WNBA roster, joining the ranks with Korie Hlede (1998) and Candace Futrell (2004).
“Meg had worked incredibly hard to play in the WNBA,” DU head coach Dan Burt said. “This roster spot is well earned. So happy for such an awesome young woman.”
Indeed, McConnell had a distinguished career at Duquesne.
Over her time on the Bluff, she became the program’s all-time leader in assists (660) and steals (370), while finishing second in career scoring with 1,795 points. She also set school records for games played (144), career starts (136), and triple-doubles (4).
Despite standing just 5-foot-7, she proved to be a dominant presence on the boards, collecting 1,079 career rebounds, the second-most in program history, and averaging 7.5 rebounds per game, good for 10th all-time. A consistent perimeter threat, she knocked down 209 three-pointers, ranking sixth at Duquesne, while her 4.6 assists per game average stands as the seventh-best mark in school history.
McConnell accumulated a plethora of accolades including finalist for the Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year and Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year.
sports briefs
Hoop camp
A high school girls basketball camp will be held June 16-19 at Mt. Lebanon High School gym. Students in grades 3 through 5 meet from 9 a.m. to noon. Grades 6 through 9 attend from 1 to 4 p.m. Fee is $100 and due June 11. Walk-ins can attend with an added $25 late fee. Makes checks payable to Blue Devil Club and mail to Coach Mark Walsh, 4605 W. Brightview Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15227. Call 412-979-2913 for more details.
Roadrace
The Pittsburgh Cure Sarcoma 5K Run and Walk will be held at 9 a.m. June 21 at the North Park boathouse.
She concluded her career with a selection to the 2025 Lilly Women’s College AllStar Game.
A two-time A-10 All-Conference First Team and All-Defensive Team honoree, she also distinguished herself academically, earning A-10 All-Academic Team honors for three straight seasons and being named to the CSC Academic All-District® Team on three occasions.
Though she was not selected in the 2025 WNBA Draft, McConnell signed as a free agent in April with the Mercury.
“Honestly, I couldn’t believe it when I got that call from my agent,” McConnell said in a press release from Duquesne. “He said that Phoenix was excited about me and that they wanted to offer me to a training camp, and I accepted it.”
She added, I just couldn’t be happier. I just couldn’t wait to go there and prove myself that I belong there.”
McConnell competed with the Mercury in the WNBA preseason before final roster
Teams, families, including pets, can participate. Fee is $30. Price increases after June 13. In addition to the walk, there will be crafts, a bouncy house, kids activities and a Chinese auction. Visit pittsburghcuresarcoma.org to register or contact 412576-4359 for more information.
Boys hoops
A four-day summer boys basketball camp will be held June 23-26 at Bethel Park High School gymnasium. Grades 3 to 5 meet from 9 a.m. to noon while grades 6 to 9 meet from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Rico Abbondanza and his staff will focus on fundamentals, techniques and
cuts were made. During the preseason, she averaged 3.0 points while converting 50 percent of her shots from the field as well as three-point range.
Because of injuries, the Mercury made quick roster moves, signing McConnell. Phoenix is off to one of its best starts in franchise history.
Burt predicts success for McConnell, who was a standout at Chartiers Valley High School winning several WPIAL titles and a PIAA championship.
“Meg is a pure point guard from a family that has produced some of the best point guards to ever come out of Western Pennsylvania,” Burt said. “She has a high basketball IQ, is a winner and most importantly, a competitor with a killer instinct.”
McConnell’s relatives had that inclination as well.
Her aunts, Suzie and Kathy played on Seton LaSalle’s 1984 state championship team, which was recently inducted into the WPIAL Hall of Fame.
After excelling at Penn State, Suzie went on to partic-
training tactics. Fee is $125. Proceeds benefit the boys high school program. Visit score-usa.com to register. Visit the school’s Facebook page for more details.
Pony camp
A Pony Camp, designed specifically for beginner riders ages 5 to 10, will be held this summer at Horses Unlimited Stables in South Park.
Camps run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 4-7 and Aug. 1114. Campers learn riding skills as well as how to care for, groom, tack up and ride ponies. Space is limited, and registration is required to secure a spot. A deposit is needed at the time of registration. Call 412-835-7726.
ipate in two Summer Olympic Games, winning gold and bronze medals for Team USA, while Kathy has pursued a career in coaching. After a stint at Trinity, Kathy is now the head coach at Carnegie Mellon University.
Her father, Tim, played on a WPIAL runner-up team in high school and spearheaded Waynesburg University into the national spotlight. Tim went on to become one of the winningest high school coaches with more than 500 career victories and multiple WPIAL championships. He coached Megan to a PIAA state title in 2019.
And then there’s Megan’s oldest brother T.J. Like Megan, he played for his father while attending Chartiers Valley High School.
T.J. led the Colts to a 29-2 record, a WPIAL title and a berth in the PIAA 3A state championship game in 2010. During his senior year, he scored 1,062 points while averaging 34.2 points, 8.2 rebounds and 9.1 assists per game He claimed first-team all-state accolades and Pennsylvania Player of the Year honors as a result.
Blasts
FROM PAGE B1
Eric Miehl went 3-for-4 with an RBI.
Joey Levis and Ryan Petras each had two hits. Levis drove in two and Petras one run.
White, Brian Bitkowski and Aaron Hofbauer also finished with base hits in the victory.
In the fourth frame, the Black Hawks sent 18 batters to the plate and exploded for nine hits, including four doubles. Five batters walked and one was hit by a pitch in the 13-run uprising.
“I can’t say I have been a part of a 13-run inning before,” Zehnder remarked. “It was a lot of fun other than my legs and my sending home arm being sore afterward,” he laughed.
T.J. ranks as the all-time scoring leader at Chartiers Valley with 2,404 career points. He also holds the WPIAL record for career 3-point field goals with 334.
After a standout collegiate career at Duquesne and Arizona, T.J. also went unselected in the NBA draft, but he signed as a free agent with Philadelphia. After four seasons with the 76ers, he signed a two-year deal with Indiana in 2019. He has played with the Pacers ever since.
That T.J. became a professional player let alone one competing in this year’s NBA championships when he was a skinny, half-pint sized point guard while playing in high school comes as a complete surprise to his dad.
“I can’t believe my son is playing in the NBA finals,” Tim said. “I never envisioned him in the NBA when he was in high school let alone playing the finals.”
T.J. made that dream happen..
“His dedication to the sport, his work ethic, attitude and the sacrifices he made, all played a part in T.J. making it to the NBA,” said Tim.
With the win, Bethel Park improved to 20-5 overall and advanced to face Shaler (186) in the quarterfinals played June 4 at Gateway High School.
The Titans won their third WPIAL championship in six years when they beat Pine-Richland, 5-2, in the Class 5A final played May 27 at EQT Park in Washington.
Shaler was the 2023 state champion while the Black Hawks won back-to-back PIAA crowns in 2021 and 2022.
The state semifinals are set for June 9 and the PIAA championships will be played June 12 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on the Penn State University campus.
PT falls
USC gymnast shines at nationals
Avery Irvin of Upper St. Clair medaled during the USA Gymnastics Men’s and Women’s Development Program’s national championships held recently in Salt Lake City. She finished fourth on vault. Irvin placed 23rd in the all-around competition. To qualify for nationals, Irvin placed in the top seven at the Region 7 competition. The region encompasses all of Pennsylvania, Virginia, New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia and Maryland.
The national championships featured the top Level 10 women and Level 8-10 men’s athletes. In addition to awarding all-around, apparatus and regional team champions, the Women’s 2025 Development Program national team and the Men’s Level 8/9 Junior National Team were selected. Irvin is an eighth-grade student at Fort Couch Middle School.
A member of the Xquisite competitive gymnastics team that trains at X-Cel Gymnastics in Cranberry Township, Irvin has participated in the sport since she was 3. She practices more than 20 hours each week. Her favorite event is the uneven bars.
The host Pioneers scored single runs in the third and fourth innings to take a 2-0 lead. A two-base throwing error and a dropped third strike set up the initial tally. A pair of singles and an error contributed to the second score. Both runs crossed the plate on ground ball outs.
“Dubois was a good team. They had multiple good arms, including a starter going to WVU. But our approach and execution was on point, especially in that inning.”
Mistakes led to Peters Township’s downfall in the first round of the PIAA Class 5A baseball tournament. The Indians surrendered two unearned runs and lost to Lampeter-Strasburg, 2-1, to end their season at 15-10 overall.
The Indians scored their run in the fifth. Zach Miner singled. Adam Koraido entered as a courtesy runner and promptly swiped second base. He moved to third on a flout and scored on Jackson Stocker’s single. The Indians had a scoring chance in the fifth but left the bases loaded as Cooper Hillen shut them down the remainder of the game. Hillen struck out six in 2 1/3 innings in relief of Devin Aponte, who started the game and threw 4 2/3 frames. For the Indians, David Oberschelp tagged two hits. Miner was saddled with the loss. He struck out five, walked one and scattered seven hits. With the win, Lampeter-Strasburg improved to 20-5 overall. The Pioneers are the District 3 champion. They played Pine-Richland (20-4), an 8-4 winner over Central Mountain, in the quarterfinals played June 4.
Avery Irvin
Sister following in brother’s footsteps
Megan McConnell
T.J. McConnell
Bethel Park students create award-winning business plan
By Paul Paterra Staff writer ppaterra@observer-reporter.com
Three Bethel Park High School seniors developed a business project that captured the No. 1 spot in a state competition and was one of the top-rated projects in an international contest.
Twin sisters Brea and Jala Schoffstall and Kelsie Rendulic, all 18, are members of the high school’s DECA club and based their project, “Brewing Up Success,” on the school’s business coffee enterprise known as Bean & Berry. Bean & Berry, also referred to as “The Bean,” is in its ninth year at the school, and offers beverages and snacks for sale from periods one through four.
“We knew we wanted to do something that was more hands-on than the rest of the projects we’ve done, so we came up with The Bean,” explained Jala Schoffstall. “We monitored what we could improve from last year and other years and what we wanted to do to better with The Bean.”
DECA, formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a career and technical student organization that prepares students for college and careers in business and finance-related fields.
“It’s a business club,” Rendulic said. “It involves if you were to open your own business or franchise a business. You work with what you learn and (integrate that) into the real world.”
With that in mind, the trio created a business plan designed to improve sales at Bean & Berry.
“(Our plan) was about raising sales for a business and how to manage a business,” said Brea Schofstall. “It was about profit and how to spend money to make money so we had to figure out the profit margin throughout the whole project. Our goal was to reach $10,000 by Jan. 1.”
Consider that goal reached, and smashed, as they amassed $24,731.55, more than $9,000 in bagel sales alone.
Partnerships were created with local businesses such as Bethel Bakery and Giant Eagle, which provided cookies and bagels respectively at discount prices. Promotions were expanded and the product line was widened.
“At first, we were only selling lemonade and Pop-Tarts and coffee,” said Brea Schoffstall during a busy morning at The Bean. “This year, we were able to get bagels, slushies and all different types of snacks.”
Bean & Berry profits from the first part of the year reduced the cost of the students to go to the DECA State Career Development Conference, held Feb. 1921 at the Hershey Lodge, where they presented their business plan..
what’s happening
LIBRARY
The Mt. Lebanon public library will kick off its summer reading program with its annual Midsummer Night Folk Festival on June 9. All ages can participate in this day-long event held on the Southminster lawn, directly across the street from the library’s lower entrance.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. there will be events – spin art, paper sculptures, glitter tattoos — for children and teens. From 4 to 8 p.m. there will be a variety of food trucks and music as well as craft booths and a pop-up tent sale. A book sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the library’s book cellar. Email mt.lebanonlibrarian@ einetwork.net or call 412531-1912 for more details.
RECREATION
Registration for Peters Township Parks and Recreation summer programs begins June 9 online at www.peterstownship.com or in person at the recreation center located at 700 Meredith Drive. One-day programs and session classes begin in July and August. Call 724-9425000 with questions.
SCIENCE
Registration for the Mad Science summer camps at Peters Township is being accepted. Ages 5 to 12 are eligible. Camps are held from 1 to 4 p.m. Red Hot Robots runs from July 7-11. Forces in Flight is the subject of the July 21-25 camp. Nature’s Secrets will be explored Aug. 4-8. Register online at www.peterstownship.com or in person at the recreation center located at 700 Meredith Drive. For
“That allowed a lot more people from our school to go and compete,” Jala Schoffstall said. “We wouldn’t have necessarily been able to do that if The Bean wasn’t able to help with funding.”
About 7,000 students took part in the career development conference, but the Bethel Park project was deemed the best.
“It was definitely very competitive,” Brea Schoffstall said. “We didn’t know we placed first. We just knew we made it to Orlando,” the site of the international competition. “That’s what our goal was. Walking across the stage felt really good because we knew how much work we put into the project and we knew we deserved (to go to Orlando). It felt really good.”
The DECA International Career Development Conference, held April 25 to 30, hosted 26,000 students from around the world who participated in the competition at the Orange County Convention Center.
Among those students, the Bethel Park trio placed 18th.
Emily Smoller, DECA adviser for Bethel Park, is impressed with her students’ accomplishments.
“It’s great that they did everything at the store so they were able to have an
idea, actually implement it and show their results,” she said. “Some of the projects with DECA you can have a hypothetical plan, but they were able to actually do everything. They work here in the store every day, come up with the ideas, test everything out and implement. I just think that and the creativity they have is great.”
None of the three students has plans to go into the business field, but each admitted they received valuable experience through DECA.
“The biggest thing I gained was confidence in public speaking,” Jala Schoffstall said.
“We were meeting people you never get to really talk to,” added her sister Brea. “You meet a lot of new people and make a lot of new friends. On the business side, you learn a lot about managing a business and how it’s not always great. It’s always up and down and you have to learn how to work through it.”
Rendulic said, “DECA really helps with public speaking and now I love it. I think everyone should do DECA because it’s a great way to have a brighter future ahead of you.”
TICKETS
more information, call 724942-5000.
CLOTHING DRIVE
A Clothing Drive and Urgent Needs Collection will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 14 at Center Presbyterian Church, 255 Center Church Road in McMurray. Drop off clean, usable items. These will benefit the many shelters of City Mission: men’s, women’s, women and children, and veteran’s shelters. In addition to clean, usable clothing, there is a need for personal hygiene products, bedding, towels, kitchen items, coffee, canned meat and fruit, peanut butter and jelly, cereal, spaghetti sauce, travel size toiletries and some medicines such as Tylenol, Pepto-Bismol, disinfectant spray and Ace wraps. Monetary donations are acceptable online at www. citymission.org/donate.
LUNCHEON
A senior lunch will be held at 1 p.m. June 11 at Chabad of the South Hills located at 1701 McFarland Road. In addition to lunch, a pharmacist with Blueberry Pharmacy (a cost-plus pharmacy model) will speak on medication/ drug pricing. The event is handicap accessible. RSVP at 412-278-2658.
COIN CLUB
The South Hills Coin Club will meet at 7:30 p.m. June 10 at the Bethel Park municipal building located at 5100 W. Library Ave. All members and the general public can attend. Early American gold coins will be the topic of discussion. A 50/50 will be held and children’s prizes will be awarded. Applications are being accepted for member-
ship. Call 724-984-6611 for more information.
MOVIES
The amphitheater in Peterswood Park will again be the site for free Friday night flicks. The program schedule features: “Moana 2” on June 13; “Inside Out 2” on July 18; “The Wild Robot” on Aug. 8 and “Beetlejuice” on Oct. 10. Popcorn is provided. Movies begin at dusk. Call 724-942-5000 for more details.
CAR WASH
“The Longest Day” car wash and bake sale will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 21 on the Concordia of Bridgeville campus, located at 3570 Washington Pike. The event, held in recognition of the Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Longest Day” campaign, will raise funds to support care, research and advocacy for individuals affected by the disease. In addition to the car wash and bake sale, there will be tours of the retirement community’s facility. Registration is appreciated but not required. To RSVP, call 412-801-0293 or visit the events page at www.ConcordiaLM.org.
FOOD TRUCKS
Food Truck Fridays are back at the Peters Township Municipal Complex at 610 East McMurrary Road. Hibachi Lou will be featured June 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Future dates and vendors are: July 11, Cousins Maine Lobster; July 25, Truckin’ Triangles; Aug. 1, Chicks’ N Waffles; Aug. 5, Hummus Pittsburgh. Admission is free. Visit www. peterstownship.com for more details or changes to the vending line-up.
USC senior places first in FBLA event
Upper St. Clair High School
senior Ian Dvorin earned first place in Spreadsheet Applications at the 2025 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference held recently in Hershey.
With this top finish,Dvorin is now qualified to compete at the FBLA National Leadership Conference to be held June 29 to July 2 in Anaheim, Calif.
Joining Dvorin at the national competition are three sophomores – Nithya Kommineni, Leela Kulkarni and Olivia Mamakos. They placed second in Introduction to Business Presentation Additionally, Anand Jani qualified. The junior placed fourth in Organizational Leadership.
This year, 33 USCHS students competed in 26 events at the state conference. The following also earned top 10 finishes in Pennsylvania:
■ Devesh Jani (grade 11): Sixth Place, Public Policy & Advocacy
■ Ahana Mendhi and Kelly Qin (grade 9): Ninth Place, Business Ethics Patrick Manion, social studies teacher, serves as the school’s FBLA adviser.
The FBLA State Leadership Conference featured more than 50 individual and team
events across a wide range of business-related subjects, including broadcast journalism, business management, coding and programming, data analysis, entrepreneurship, graphic design, hospitality and event management, and marketing. The top four finishers in each event qualified for nationals.
FBLA is a nonprofit educational organization that prepares students for careers in business by helping them develop leadership skills and build pathways toward business and related professions.
USC students selected for PMEA Jr. Orchestra
Two Upper St. Clair student musicians were selected to participate in the 2025 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 1 Junior High Orchestra Festival. Eighth-grader Matthew Pfeiffer, viola, and ninth-grader Bella Robinson, violin, attended the event held recently at Gateway High School.
Pfeiffer Robinson
The Fort Couch Middle School and Upper St. Clair High School students receive string instruction from Karen Chisholm, USC orchestra director. Patrick Forsyth, from the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic and Seton Hill University, served as guest conductor for the Junior District Orchestra.
Discount tickets for summer amusement are available for in-person sales at the Peters Township recreation center located at 700 Meredith Dr. Any day passes for ages 4 and older cost: $43 each for Kennywood; $35 each for Sandcastle and $42 each for Idlewild & Soak Zone. All sales are final. Visit www. peterstownship.com or call 724-942-5000 for more details.
JUNETEENTH
Uncover the history of slavery on the Pennsylvania frontier during a Juneteenth celebration set from 6 to 8 p.m. June 19 at Woodville, located at 1375 Washington Pike in Bridgeville. Hourlong programs start at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m. Guided tours will focus on the experiences of the enslaved community at Woodville between 1775 and 1803. Led by Rob Windhorst of the Neville House Associates, the program will feature authentic cooking demonstrations in the interpretative cabin. Free admission and tours are sponsored by Viatris. Visit woodville-experience.org or call 412-221-0348 for more details.
BABESBURGH
The second annual Babesburgh Bash, a festival celebrating and supporting the women of Western Pennsylvania, will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. June 14 at Allegheny Landing Park in Pittsburgh. With 115-plus local businesses, artists, wellness providers, and community groups, the event offers something for everyone: shopping at woman-owned
vendor market, food market, and farmers’ market; sipping craft beer, wine and cocktails from local breweries and distilleries; meditation sessions, wellness education talk as well as fitness classes including yoga, boxing, and Zumba. There will be live music with Pittsburgh’s top women DJs and musicians and an interactive drum circle as well as an artist alley spotlighting Pittsburgh’s artist scene. Community nonprofits supporting women and families will also be highlighted. Visit babesburgh.com to purchase tickets.
BP LIBRARY
The Bethel Park Library will hold a plant swap during regular hours from June 12-16 in the fireplace room. Plants or seeds can be left on the plant swap tables. Indoor and outdoor plants, annuals, perennials, shrubs can be donated. Label plants. Plants should be in a container, well watered and pest as well as disease free. The library is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The library is closed Sundays through Labor Day. Call 412835-2207 for more details.
CAMP
Registration for Camp Gan Izzy is being accepted at chabadsh.com/cgi.
The camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 30, to July 1. Ages 4 to 11 can attend. The Jewish-themed camp offers specialty clubs, swimming, weekly trips, sports, science, baking and crafts. Daily lunch and snacks are provid-
ed. Limited scholarships are available. For more information, email hindy@chabadsh.com or call 412-344-2424.
CONCERTS
The Peters Township summer concert and events series begins in June. Free Wednesday night concerts with food trucks begin at 7 p.m. at Peterswood Park. Beer and wine are permitted at concerts only, but not at special events. The concert line-up is Key of G Live on June 25; The Intransitive Band, July 2; Suns of Beaches Band, July 9; Pure Gold, July 16; The Clarks, July 23; My Own Worst 90s Band, July 30; Change of Heart, Aug. 6; The Delaneys, Aug. 13; Come Together (6 p.m. start), Aug. 20, and The Pittsburgh Doo Wop Big Band (6 p.m.) Aug. 27. Special events include: Pittsburgh Puppet Works at 6:30 p.m. June 11; Moana 2, June 13; Shows By Cricket, 6:30 p.m. June 18; Inside Out 2, July 18; The Wild Robot, Aug. 8; Wild World of Animals, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 3, and BeetleJuice BeetleJuice, Oct. 10. Visit www.peterstownship. com or call 724-942-5000 for more details.
WROC EVENTS
The Westminster Recreation and Outreach Center offers a variety of exercise classes and programs at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 2040 Washington Road in Upper St. Clair. Visit wroc.westminster-church.org to register or more details or call 412-835-6630.
PAUL PATERRA/OBSERVER-REPORTER
With their PowerPoint presentation are, from left, Brea Schoffstall, Kelsie Rendulic and Jala Schoffstall.
Ian Dvorin
Classifieds On The Internet www.thealmanac.net Call: 724-222-2200
MT. LEBANON
Two Single-family Houses for Rent - Immediate Availability Walk to Washington and Mellon public schools or Ave Maria Academy, Restaurants, T-Station and Library
• 4 Beds, 2.5 Baths, Master Bedroom Ensuite Bathroom on first floor; large Living Room, Dining Room and New Kitchen, plus 2 large attic rooms for study/office. Hardwood Floors, Large Basement with washer and dryer, Central A/C. Parking for 2 vehicles. $2,990/month or best offer.
• 3 Beds, 1 Bath, Living Room, Dining Room and Kitchen, plus Attic Room for study/office. Hardwood floors, brand new Kitchen, Luxury Bathroom, brand new washer and dryer in basement. Parking in driveway for 2 vehicles. $1,990/month, or best offer. No smoking or pets/animals. DISCOUNT: One month rent free for 2-year lease. Phone 412-736-5864.
EQUALHOUSINGOPPORTUNITY
Allrealestateadvertisementsinthisnewspaperaresubjecttothe FederalFairHousingAct,whichmakesitillegaltoadvertise“any preference,limitationordiscrimi-nationbasedonrace,color,religion, sex,handicap,familialstatusornationalorigin,oranintentionto makeanysuchpreference,limitationordiscrimination.”
Statelawsforbiddiscriminationinthesale,rental,oradvertisingof realestatebasedonfactorsinadditiontothoseprotectedunder federallaw.
Wewillnotknowinglyacceptanyadvertisingforrealestatewhichis inviolationofthelaw.Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellingsadvertisedareavailableonanequalopportunitybasis.
Sofa,MarbleTopCabinet,SlagLamp, OrientalRug,OrientalRunners,Mirror,NumerousMarbleTop Tables,GrandfatherClock,P.BuckleyMoss,DogFigurines, Glassware,StainedGlass,Roseville,Hummels,Knick Knacks,Crocks,Lamps,GrandfatherClock,Hutch,Chairs, SteelerLamp,SpindleLegTable,SansuiTurntable,Receiver &CassettePlayer,RCA5DiscCDPlayer,CDs,Albums, SheetMusic,AntiqueScooter,AntiqueBabyCarriage,Mantel Clocks,AntiqueSled,SawsandFarmTools,AntiqueTown TalkBreadSign,ButterChurn,MilkCan,CutcoKnifeBlock, CanningJars,IroningBoard,Chairs,Rockers,SectionalSofa, HangingStainedGlassLamp,Curio,Mirrors,DropLeaf Table,ChinaCabinet,AntiquePictures,AntiqueFullBrass Bed,MapleDresser,AntiqueSewingMachines,CedarChest, RollTopDesk,FileCabinet,DellComputerinBox,Old Books,Scales,Games,MatchBoxCars,BellTelephoneMetalTruck,LittleTikesCars,LeatherSkiBoots,RollerSkates, DrexelChestofDrawers,Dresser,AntiqueChest,WingBack Chair,Crib,BabyCarriage,Jewelry,Pipes,PineappleBed, Dresser,FloorLamp,Linens,Kirby,WoodBurningStoves, KeroseneHeater,Bench,Dehumidifier,ThisEndUpSofa, LoveSeat,Chair,DeskandChair,Coffee&EndTable,HangingLamp,AntiqueWashingMachine,SpeedQueenWasher, WhirlpoolDryer,Aquarium,AntiqueDrillPress,LawnNativity, BirdHouses,Spreader,2RainBarrels,Planters,PatioTable &4Chairs,andSOMUCHMORE!!DON’TMISSIT!!
Directions: Route.19toBoyceRoad,RightonMayviewto 1481MayviewRoad.ParkingonSideStreets. **CASHONLY!!PLEASEBRINGYOUROWNHELP!!
Appliances
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
#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
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
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
