Summer splash
Forecast promising for area swim centers
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
ebailey@thealmanac.net
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, summer in the South Hills will be warmer than normal, but with more precipitation.
While rainfall may be above average, area residents will be flocking to community pools and splash pads to beat the heat.
For the second year in a row, South Fayette residents can cool off for free at the splash pad in Fairview Park at 288 Recreation Road. Daily hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
According to Andrea Iglar, the township’s director of communications and community development, the facility will open a concession stand this year. Cashless payments are accepted. Attendants monitor the facility and the area is under video surveillance.
Features are designed for children up to age 12. “But all children and adults are welcome to use the amenity,” Iglar said. She added that the solar-powered picnic tables have wireless charging.
The splash pad, which opened last July, is adjacent to the Mayview Pavilion, has permanent restrooms and a water fountain.
Maddy Tokarczyk (front) and Josie Woleslagle (back) enjoy a refreshing spray of water during last year’s opening day at the new splash park in Bethel Park. The facility will open for the 2025 season on May 24.
“We look forward to the first full summer that the public will be able to enjoy our water feature in our largest township park,” Iglar said. Visit southfayettepa.com for directions, maps, overview and details. Bethel Park’s splash park is also opening for its second season.
Memorial Day parades, ceremonies mark somber day
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
Memorial Day may mark the unofficial start to summer, but the holiday is much more meaningful.
“A lot of people get misled by it thinking it’s a day for picnics, swimming and summer beginning, but it’s a really important holiday,” said Brian Peitz of Mount Lebanon.
“We remember all those who have actually perished in one of our conflicts. Veterans Day, as everyone knows, is in the fall and you celebrate all veterans. This special day actually honors those that have made the ultimate sacrifice. Men and women who are no longer with us.”
Dick Jewell will be the featured speaker during Bethel Park Memorial Day activities. He will deliver remarks at 8:50 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Plaza in front of the municipal building, located on West Library Road. A parade follows at 10 a.m.
Signed and delivered
The $3.5 million facility features two areas including one for younger children with a river component to float boats and other items as well as a larger area for all ages with various spray toys and water features. The park also includes a snack stand and unisex, air-conditioned restrooms. The facility is fully staffed during operating hours.
Located at Park Avenue, the Splash Park opens May 24. Hours are noon to 7 p.m. Sunday through Saturday. Season pass holders are admitted at 11 a.m. one hour prior to regular starting hours.
For many years as a Boy Scout, Peitz marched in the South Hills Memorial Day Parade (SHMDP). Most recently, he has been part of the parade committee. He currently serves as the vice president of the SHMDP association.
Established in 1934, the parade will play a key role in South Hills festivities to be held May 26 as it brings together the communities of Brookline, Dormont and Mount Lebanon. The largest Memorial Day parade in Southwestern Pennsylvania will be preceded by the playing of “Taps” and a 21-gun salute for a dedication of a special World War I memorial.
The Upper St. Clair School Board approved a proposed final budget for the 2025-26 school year that includes a slight tax increase. School directors unanimously approved a $108,388,976 spending plan on May 5 that sets millage at 31.5150, an increase of .9180 mills or 3%.
The annual tax impact of the proposed increase on a $237,300 home, the average assessed home in Upper St. Clair, is $217.84 a year, or $18.15 per month. To calculate the impact of a specific property value, multiply the property’s county assessed value by 0.0009180. Factors impacting the budget include Allegheny County’s common level ratio and compounding increases in medical
PHOTOS: ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
The Bethel Park Splash Park will open for business on May 24.
PHOTOS BY ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC & JIM CROMIE
The cavalcade departs Brookline Boulevard at 10 a.m. and proceeds to Pioneer Avenue onto West Liberty Avenue. It concludes with a ceremony in Mount Lebanon Cemetery.
The 91st SHMDP is dedicated to the memory of Thomas A. Bird. A Marine, he was the first Mount Lebanon resident killed in action during the Vietnam War. Bird Park was dedicated in the first lieutenant’s name on Memorial Day in 1967.
Rocky Bleier serves as this year’s parade marshal. Selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers after helping Notre Dame win a national football championship, Bleier was also drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968 and served in Vietnam. While on patrol, an ambush injured much of his lower body. After nearly two years of recovery, Bleier went on to help the Steelers win four Super Bowl championships.
“The Memorial Day parade is important to me,” said Bleier, who resides in Mount Lebanon. “It’s always been a big part of my life. The bands. The soldiers,” he added.
Military personnel will be recognized for their service throughout the South Hills on Memorial Day.
Prior to the SHMDP, Mount Lebanon will conduct a ceremony at 8:30 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial at Morgan Drive at the entrance of the main park.
The thoroughfare is dedicated in memory of Wiliam D. Morgan. The 1966 Mount Lebanon High School graduate served as a corporal in the Marine Corps. He is one of 11 Mount Lebanon men who died for the country. Morgan died Feb. 25, 1969, in Vietnam.
Master of Ceremonies
Blaise Larotonda delivers the welcome followed by an invocation by the Rev. Jim Magaw from the Sunnyhill Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills.
After a presentation of colors by the Mt. Lebanon Police Department Honor Guard and the National Anthem by the high school marching band, Navy Pilot Jim McStay will speak. In between a musical arrangement of “Main Street America” and “Taps” by the marching band, the Placing of the Wreath ceremony will take place.
Bethel Park
Dick Jewell of Bethel Park has much in common with Pietz and Bleier.
Since moving to the municipality in 1956, he has attended every Memorial Day Parade. The two he missed were due to his service in the Army.
by Allegheny County to determine the fair market value of real estate properties. The rate has steadily declined from 100% in 2013 to 52.7% in 2025.
“A continued reduction in revenue via the common level ratio for Allegheny County has and will continue to decrease
Jewell will be the distinguished guest at the Bethel Park Memorial Day remembrance on May 26. He will deliver remarks during the opening ceremony set for 8:50 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Plaza in front of the municipal building at 5100 W. Library Ave. His speech will focus on the meaning of the holiday.
Prior to his service, Jewell graduated from Bethel Park High School, where he was a WPIAL diving champion. A Grove City College graduate, Jewell also won the U.S. Army 1-meter diving title in 1970 at Ft. MacArthur in California. A member of the Bethel Park athletic Hall of Fame as well as the Great Alumni Hall, Jewell is Director of Strategic Marketing for Berkeley Research Group.
Following the opening ceremony, which includes a roll call of servicemen killed or missing in action and a laying of a wreath ritual at the veterans memorial, the day continues with the annual parade. The cavalcade steps off at 10 a.m. from the municipal building and ends at the Bethel Cemetery, adjacent to Bethel Presbyterian Church on Bethel Church Road. A cemetery service hosted by American Legion Post 760 will be held immediately after the parade at approximately 11 a.m. A luncheon will be held at the Bethel Park Community Center following the service for those who participated in the event.
In case of inclement weather, the morning ceremony will be moved indoors to council chambers in the municipal building, the parade will be canceled, and tents will be on site at the cemetery for the service, which will be broadcast on BPTV. The luncheon will stay the same.
Any changes to the program will be announced by 7 a.m. on Memorial Day on all Bethel Park social media outlets and at bethelparkpa.gov on the official website.
South Fayette
The South Fayette-Bridgeville Memorial Day parade starts at 10 a.m. on May 26 on Washington Pike, near Interstate 79 in South Fayette.
The main street will be closed from Warchol Funeral Home to the Chartiers Street bridge, and Washington Avenue will close in downtown Bridgeville.
During the parade, all traffic will be prohibited from using those roads, entering/ exiting local shopping areas, and using the Chartiers Street intersection.
Peters Township
The VFW Post 764 will host a Memorial Day Parade on May 26 in Peters Township. Ruff Creek Band will be the featured entertainment. Visit www.vfw764.org or www.facebook.com/VFW764 for more details.
revenue for the district,” said Scott Burchill, director of business and finance. “The proposed 2025-26 budget includes a $750,000 revenue loss attributed to the common level ratio. The total assessed value for Upper St. Clair is projected to decline annually until Allegheny County conducts a full reassessment.”
The budget includes a $500,000 increase in the cost of medical coverage. Over the last three fiscal years, the cost
Writer Jon Andreassi
Staff Writer Paul Paterra
Bethel Park earns top ranking
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net
Bethel Park has been ranked the top municipality by Consumer Affairs website to move to in Pennsylvania.
According to the report, what made Bethel Park stand out was the town’s affordability, safety, and quality of life. It also noted its low crime rates and suburban charm just 10 miles from Pittsburgh.
“We’re extremely pleased to have received this outstanding recognition,” said Bethel Park Manager Kristen Denne. “Our community leaders take great pride in the area’s numerous amenities and diverse housing options that cater to a variety of lifestyles. Residents enjoy a vibrant suburban setting here with abundant business, entertainment, and recreational opportunities. Additionally, our highly rated public schools strengthen the appeal of Bethel Park, making it an ideal destination for families. Collectively, these attributes make Bethel Park an excellent place to call home.”
Consumer Affairs noted that Bethel Park has the second lowest violent crime and property crime rate in the state. It also acknowledged the community for having the lowest home-to-income ratio among large Pennsylvania cities.
Bethel Park ranks fifth in the state for a well-educated population with 97.2% of its residents having at least a high school diploma. It earned a similar ranking for health care accessibility with a ratio of 30.5 health care professionals per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, Bethel Park maintains a family-friendly suburban environment
Splash
FROM PAGE A1
Hours of operation are weather permitting and subject to change.
Daily passes and 10-day punch passes ($27 each) can be purchased at the community center, located at 5151 Park Ave. Memberships ($50 per household) and/or passes must be purchased prior to entry.
Single day entry is $3 per person ($5 non-residents).
All purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Call 412-851-2910 for more details.
Mt. Lebanon
The Mt. Lebanon Outdoor Swim Center opens May 24. Lap swimming is available Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to noon followed by regular operating hours until 7 p.m. Memorial Day hours are noon to 7 p.m.
The pool will be open Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. weekdays through the last day of school on June 5. Regular operating hours resume June 6.
In addition to the 11 a.m. to noon lap swimming session, long-course swimming will be available from 7:15 to 8:15
has increased 28.7% or more than $2 million. Retirement contributions increased by $400,000 over the previous year.
“The large majority of the recommended 3% tax increase is driven by three external factors, the significant loss in revenue due to Allegheny County’s common level ratio, rising health-care costs and mandated state retirement contributions for school districts,” said Dr. John Rozzo,
with 14 neighborhood parks as well as the expansive South Park which spans around 2,000 acres and includes a beloved bison preserve. Bethel Park also has easy access to downtown thanks to the Pittsburgh Regional Transit light rail line.
Despite facing challenges with net migration, Pennsylvania remains an attractive choice for those seeking affordable living and a strong local economy. The state’s median home sale price is notably lower than the national average, making it appealing for newcomers.
“Bethel Park’s affordability and low crime relative to its urban access contribute to its ranking as the best place to move to in Pennsylvania,” the report reads. “It’s a family-friendly suburban environment 10 miles from Pittsburgh, with numerous parks and recreational options. Also the ‘T’ lets people off into the city’s downtown area.”
p.m. Monday through Thursday. Open swim hours are noon to 7 p.m. daily, including the Fourth of July as well as June 21-22 because of a swim meet.
The season runs through Aug. 18, weather permitting. Additional hours may be added after Aug. 18 if possible.
The facility offers lap swimming and recreational swimming for people of all ages. It includes a bathhouse, family changing rooms, pool heater, zero depth leisure pool, double slide tower, spray features, 50-meter lap lanes, poolside rock climbing wall and a snack bar.
Daily admission is $12 for adults 19 and older. Children 2 and under are admitted for free. Seniors, ages 62 and older, as well as ages 3 to 18, pay $11. Season passes are available for purchase.
Call 412-343-3409 or 412561-4363 for more information.
During operating hours, 412-561-6626 is available for questions.
Peters Township
The Rolling Hills Aqua Park in Peters Township is slated to open in June. It will include a splash pad, pavilion and party room that can be rented for private events.
superintendent. “Absent these factors, our recommendation would be well below a 1% increase.”
In November, the board approved a resolution limiting any possible tax increase to within the inflationary index determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Passage of the resolution assured taxpayers that any proposed increase to the real estate tax rate would not exceed 4% or 1.2238 mills.
Overall, Pennsylvania remains an appealing destination for those seeking affordable cost of living, strong local economies and recreational activities despite recent negative net migration,” the report concluded.
Compared with other Northeastern states, the Keystone State’s median home sale price is highly affordable ($257,300) — 26 %less than the national median. “Its combination of charming cities, suburbs and towns makes it easy to find something safe, affordable and accessible for everyone.”
While Bethel Park ranked No. 1 in the report, the other top five areas in the state included: Plum, Altoona, Levittown and Drexel Hill.
As conducted and published by ConsumerAffairs, said report found and listed the top best cities to move to in the Keystone State.
The park will be open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. It will be open until Labor Day, and then will remain in operation every weekend in September.
Daily admission is $2.50 for residents and $5 for non-residents
Residents can get a four-person annual pass for $25. The shelter can be rented for $100, and the party room for $150. All prices are doubled for those who live outside of the township.
Dormont
The Dormont pool operates May 24 through Sept. 1.
Weekend hours are noon until 8 p.m.
Memorial Day hours are noon to 6 p.m. Fourth of July holiday hours are noon to 5 p.m. Labor Day hours are noon to 3 followed by the annual Dormont Doggie Dip.
Weekday hours are from noon until 7:30 p.m. From May 27 to June 6 as well as from Aug. 18-29, while school is in session, the pool will operate with shortened hours from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. There will be no slide on shortened days.
Daily admission is $8. There are no discounts based on residency, age or time of entry. Children under 3 are admitted for free.
School groups and summer camps may reserve the pool in advance. Email KNeagoy@boro.dormont.pa.us to make arrangements. Call 412-341-7210 during pool hours or 412-561-8900 during office hours or visit boro.dormont.pa.us. for further details.
Upper St. Clair
The Upper St. Clair outdoor swimming pool located at the community and recreation center in Boyce-Mayview Park will open May 24. For hours of operation, fees or further information, call 412-221-1099 or 412-2216964.
County
Allegheny County features wave pools in Boyce, Settlers Cabin and South Parks as well as a traditional swimming pool in North Park. Pools are scheduled to open in June and operate through the Labor Day weekend, weather and conditions permitting.
Hours of operation are 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Admission rates for county residents are $3 for senior citizens over age 60; $6 ages 18 to 59; $5 for ages 6 to 17 and $1 for ages 5 and under. Season passes are available online. Visit alleghenycountry.us for more details.
More than 78% of the district’s revenue is derived from local taxes. The state provides 21% and the federal government provides $692,019 –less than 1% of overall revenue. Salaries and benefits total nearly 72% of the budget. This year, there are 10 professional staff retirements/ resignations, as well as the retirement of an administrator, benefits coordinator and full-time curriculum leader, as well as the elimination of one classified staff position through attrition. The proposed budget also includes a one-time use of $725,000 from the district’s fund balance to offset expenditures related to expiring bus and 1:1 technology leases. More work is planned on the budget before final approval is expected when the board meets at 7 p.m. June 11 in the district’s administration building, 1775 McLaughlin Run Road.
Victoria Zesch of Upper St. Clair has qualified to compete in the 2025 Special Olympics Pennsylvania Summer Games, to be held June 5-7 at Penn State University. This is the second consecutive year that the junior will be competing in the statewide event.
Representing Special Olympics Allegheny County, Zesch earned her spot with strong performances as a member of the South Hills Splash swim team. She captured two gold medals – in the 25-yard backstroke and 25-yard butterfly – and a silver medal in the 50-yard freestyle at both the Allegheny County Swim Tournament and the regional Special Olympics Games.
The Summer Games are Special Olympics Pennsylvania’s largest competition, drawing more than 2,000 athletes and 750 coaches from across the state. Events include basketball, equestrian, golf, gymnastics, softball, swimming and tennis. More than 1,000 volunteers support the athletes during the threeday event.
At the 2024 Summer Games, Zesch earned gold medals in the 25-meter butterfly and 25-meter backstroke, along with a silver medal in the 50-meter freestyle.
The South Hills Splash is sponsored by Upper St. Clair High School and supported by volunteers and coaches from the school’s swim and dive team, who provide mentorship and encouragement to athletes.
In addition to her Special Olympics success, Zesch is a member of the Upper St. Clair swim and dive team. She credits her mentor, Clare Larsen, for playing a key role in her growth as an athlete through coaching and support.
“The 2025 Games will be a celebration of inclusion, determination and the incred-
ible abilities of athletes from across Pennsylvania,” said Zesch’s mom, Katherine. “Vic-
the
Upper St. Clair High School juniors Dylan Childs and Peter Markovitz, along with their team, Team Panthers Kicking Cancer, raised $41,658 as part of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) 2025 Student Visionaries of the Year program. Student Visionaries of the Year is a seven-week fundraising challenge in which high school student leaders raise money and awareness for the fight against blood cancers. Students use their personal networks to solicit donations, ask businesses for support and rally the community to support them and the cause.
“This year, 17 high school candidate teams came together to raise over $552,944 toward our mission,” Erica Gribbin, campaign development manager at LLS, said.
“This is truly an elite group of students.”
This year’s campaign kicked off Feb. 7 and culminated at the Grand Finale Gala, on March 28. The funds raised benefit the LLS mission: to find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Childs and Markovitz are active within the Upper St. Clair High School community. Both serve as Junior Mentors and Natural Helpers. They are members of the Student Council and compete on the boys’ soccer team.
Victoria Zesch with mentor, Clare Larsen
Dylan Childs Peter Markovitz
Kelsey Adamski
Ayla Altman
Kellen Andruscik
Henry Barbisch
Eddie Benton III
Wyatt Bomberger
Mia Bella Carlini
Aaryn Edwards
Sean Frosell
Jaron Garth
Honoring BISHOP CANEVIN HIGH SCHOOL
Addison Hillebrand
Olivia Holub
Daniel Guzman
Miriam Hardy
Dyamond Horne
Natalie Kirsch
Gretchen Klauss
Isabella Lane
Riley Lecker
Jayden Lindsey
Jermell Lindsey
Hayleigh Loeffert
Emily Maida
Aidan Malay
Akeelah Rooke
Chloe Rovnak
Tyler Maddix
Emily Madore
Genevieve Marshall
Emery Maziarz
Bridget McNamara
Noelle Miller
Aidan Mineo
Isabella Moyer
Thomas Olszewski
Dominique Panza
Nicholas Preteroti
Vincent Ritchey
Brandon Scholz
Susan Skindzier
Braiden Sudor
Alexis Summers
Angel Summers
Trevor Swanson
Jameson Vicario
Timothy Wanamaker
Ethan Wilding
Hannah Zurbola
Join
Congratulations Class of 2025
Let
MAKING TRAFFIC SAFE AGAIN!
Planned Route 19 paving in Peters Twp. faces delay
By Jon Andreassi Staff writer jandreassi@observer-reporter.com
The state Department of Transportation recently informed Peters Township that plans to pave a stretch of Route 19 will be delayed by gas line work.
Township Manager Paul Lauer told council Monday that PennDOT will postpone plans to pave the portion of the road between Gallery Drive and Valley Brook Road at least a year as Columbia Gas works to replace the gas line.
Lauer said the agency agreed to patch the road after the township expressed concerns about its current state.
“They’ve been doing the patching over the last couple days, and I’m not sure that it isn’t worse,” Lauer said.
Lauer explained that Columbia Gas will be replacing the gas line down the center of the road from the county line to Pleasantview Drive.
Also at Monday’s meeting, council approved multiple contracts, including one to extend the township’s computer network to the Peters Township Aquatic Center.
The $27,741 contract was awarded under the state’s COSTARS cooperative purchasing program, and is funded through a Local Share Account grant. The equipment will allow for point-ofsale transactions at the park. Council also approved a $44,923 contract through COSTARS to replace flooring at the municipal building, located at 610 E. McMurray Road. Carnegie-based Steinberger Floors will replace decade-old carpeting in the hallway and 25-year-old flooring in the stairway. The work is to be completed during off-hours.
Flowers for Mom
The Auxiliary from VFW Post 764 McMurray made 85 Mother’s Day wrist corsages for the residents at McMurray Hills Nursing Home. They hand delivered them to each female resident with a note wishing them a Happy Mother’s Day. According to the group’s vice president, Sandra Coglio, “It was a very rewarding experience. We sure put a smile on a lot of ladies’ faces,” she added. Pictured are Coglio, V.A. Mattaliano, Darlene Dufalla, JoAnn Ricci and Sandi Roberto. Ricci and Mattaliano affix a corsage to a resident’s wrist.
USC guitarist places first
An Upper St. Clair eighth-grader placed first in guitar at the Crescendo International Music Competition held at Carnegie Hall in New York City. This marks the third time that Aanya Jha has placed first in the competition. In addition to playing guitar, Jha participates in USC Robotics.
The Crescendo International Music Competition is open to students ages 4 to 24. Competition is open to junior, intermediate and advanced levels for all instrumentalists, vocalists, duets and chamber orchestra. Held annually since 2007, its mission is to inspire individuals to pursue their passion for music through involvement in competitions, master classes and other educational programs.
Aanya Jha
Seton LaSalle girls riding wave of success in lacrosse
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net
Regardless of the outcome of the WPIAL playoffs, Seton LaSalle has already had a historic season in girls’ lacrosse.
While the Rebels earned the No. 2 seed in the Class 2A playoffs behind twotime defending champion Mars, they have been a record-scoring machine, thanks to Lizzie Dorley from South Fayette.
A four-year starter, Dorley holds four team records and is the school’s first 50-50 player. On March 25, she racked up a record seven assists, all in the first half, during a win against Yough.
In helping the Rebels to an undefeated section banner (10-0) and a 15-1 regular season mark, Dorley dished up 63 assists. She had 130 career assists heading into a quarterfinal playoff match against Quaker Valley on May 14. (Re-
sults unavailable at presstime for this edition of The Almanac.)
Additionally, Dorley has racked up 65 goals this spring. She has 109 career goals.
“She’s absolutely been our
leader all year and prior to that,” said SLS skipper Brian Klisavage, noting her 25 assists as a freshman.
“She’s clearly our boss on the field. Quarterback. Field general. She has taken it upon
herself to direct the offense. Clearly, the players all look to her for leadership.”
Noting one doesn’t see assist numbers as Dorley has produced to go along with her scoring production, Klisavage
Highs and lows
Trinity
SF stumbles; Char Valley charges ahead in playoffs
By Eleanor Bailey Almanac Sports Editor
ebailey@thealmanac.net
It was a split decision for two Almanac softball squads during the WPIAL playoffs.
In the first round of the Class 5A tournament, Trinity blanked South Fayette, 7-0, at Pleasant Valley field in McMurray, while Chartiers Valley edged Plum, 2-1, at West Mifflin. With the loss, the Lady Lions finished the season at 13-7 overall. With their win, the Colts improved to 12-6 overall and advanced to face No. 1 Penn-Trafford in a quarterfinal clash on May 14 again at West Mifflin. (Results of the game were unavailable at presstime for this edition of The Almanac.)
Maddie Ray silenced the South Fayette bats. She allowed two hits, including a lead-off double by Liv Bonacci in the bottom of the sixth. Bonacci was stranded at second after Cam Valentino was ruled out when she made contact on a bunt attempt out of the batter’s box. Ray then got the next two batters to ground out and flyout to end the threat. Emma Earley matched Ray, who struck out three batters. Earley retired the first eight batters she faced before a dropped fly ball yielded three unearned runs with two outs in the top of the third for the Hillers. Trinity added a run in the fifth and three more tallies in the seventh to seal the victory. Trinity’s defense curtailed the Lions, particularly in the third inning. Julia Munkittrick was hit by a pitch and advanced to third base on a bunt and groundout. Brenna Dunn then tagged a sinking liner to left field but Riley Venick
a diving
to end the scoring
and the
said that “speaks” to Dorley’s unselfishness and field awareness.
“She sees the big picture,” he said. “A lot of scorers look to goal first and it’s no secret who our leader is. Teams
Stanford ‘best of both worlds’ for PT’s Shanafelt
By Jerin Steele Staff Writer
jsteele@observer-reporter.com
Lucas Shanafelt said the recruiting process was a blessing, but also a bit stressful at times.
One person he could rely on for advice was his friend and former Peters Township football teammate Mickey Vaccarello.
And after mulling his future, Shanafelt has decided to join Vaccarello at Stanford.
Shanafelt, a junior, committed to Stanford Sunday night, joining Vaccarello as the second Peters Township football player to do so in the last two years.
“I talked to (Vaccarello) a bunch through the recruiting process about where my head was at and no matter what decision I made, I knew he would have my back,” Shanafelt said. “He obviously wanted me to go out there and it was another reason why I wanted to go there. To play with a teammate that I really trust a lot on the field.”
Shanafelt said he chose Stanford over Pitt and James Madison. He had 22 total NCAA Division I offers and is listed as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com. He was on the All-Allegheny 6 Conference second team defense and also plays wide receiver for Peters Township. The plan at Stanford is to be an outside linebacker/ edge rusher.
An exceptional student, Shanafelt carries a 4.3 GPA and scored 1300 on his SAT. Those two factors helped open
the door to Stanford, which offered him a scholarship April 7.
“Stanford provided the best of both worlds,” Shanafelt said. “I’m playing in the ACC and getting the best education you can get from a school that offers a (FBS) scholarship.”
Stanford recently went through a coaching change. Andrew Luck, Stanford’s general manager, fired former coach Troy Taylor in March after it was alleged Taylor mistreated female staffers in the football program. Luck hired former Indianapolis Colts and Carolina Panthers coach Frank Reich as Stanford’s interim coach. Reich coached Luck when he was the Colts’ quarterback.
Shanafelt’s offer came after the coaching change.
“I feel like (Stanford) is on the come up,” Shanafelt said. “I know they just fired their coach, but I believe in Coach Reich and Coach Luck. I’m excited to be a part of the comeback of Stanford football.” Shanafelt got some positive reviews from Vaccarello, who graduated from Peters Township after the football season and enrolled early at Stanford.
“He said the culture is really good,” Shanafelt said. “The coaching change hasn’t brought anyone down. If anything, it’s brought them up.” Another factor that reinforced his decision was a visit to Stanford’s campus earlier this month. He got to watch a spring practice and tour the facilities.
shadow her. Face guard her. Lizzie doesn’t shy from the challenge. She gets fired up, works harder, keeps her poise and executes.
Lizzie Dorley
Megan Kelley
Riley Woods
ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Peters Township linebacker Lucas Shanafelt (0) is the second Indians player to commit to Stanford in as many years.
PHOTOS: ELEANOR BAILEY/THE ALMANAC
Nina Christy (22) of Trinity slips into second base as Liv Bonacci (21) from South Fayette attempts to handle the throw.
defeated South Fayette, 7-0, in the first round of the WPIAL Class 5A softball playoffs.
made
catch
threat
inning.
Hannah Suhoski also made some spectacular fielding plays at shortstop to keep the Lions at bay. At the plate, she drilled an RBI double. The loss ended the careers of Maddie Cavenaugh and Emma Smith. They are
the only seniors on the South Fayette roster. A starter behind the plate for the Lions, Cavenaugh relieved Earley on the mound.
TOP: Cam Valentino made solid contact at the plate but South Fayette was held to two hits by Maddie Ray and lost, 7-0, to Trinity. BOTTOM: South Fayette right fielder Julia Munkittrick (3) cannot hold onto the fly ball in the third inning as she collides with second baseman Liv Bonacci. With two out in the frame, Trinity scored three unearned runs on the way to a 7-0 win against the Lions in the first round of the WPIAL Class 5A softball playoffs.
Playoffs
FROM PAGE B1
Field Day
ter. She struck out six and walked three in facing one of the WPIAL’s most potent line-up.
The Mustangs averaged 9.4 runs per game and had tagged 40 home runs during the regular season. They also had shut out the Colts, 13-0, back on March 17.
Duffill clubbed the key hit. She smacked a tworun homer in the third inning. It was the eighth roundtripper of the season for Duffill. A junior catcher, who is committed to Penn State, Duffill has pounded out 28 homers so far in her career.
Meanwhile, O’Connor was 1-for-2 at the plate. She also walked and scored a run on Duffill’s homer. A senior center fielder, O’Connor is committed to Robert Morris University.
Stanford
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“I love the campus,” Shanafelt said. “It’s beautiful. I love the way the team practices. It reminds me of what we do at Peters Township. It’s a different level, but there’s a lot of similar drills and teamwork, intersquad stuff that I enjoy doing. The people were very welcoming and supportive.”
Shanafelt will study economics at Stanford. Before that he hopes to help Peters Township make a return visit to the WPIAL Class 5A football championship.
“Getting the commitment out of the way was great,” Shanafelt said. “I can move on and focus with my team on winning games and just getting the most out of my senior year.”
Joe Maize, fourth from left, and a host of dignitaries from the Peters Township School District, Council, Parks and Recreation as well as state representative Natalie Mehalik cut the ribbon May 5th on the newly named Joe Maize Field in Peterswood Park. The refurbished baseball field features a synthetic infield surface, new dugouts and press box as well as upgraded lights. Peters Township played its first game on the new surface Monday night against South Fayette. Maize coached the Peters Township baseball team for 35 years, winning 422 games, and guided the Indians to two WPIAL championships, two PIAA runner-up finishes and eight section titles. Initially hired as a physical education and health teacher, Maize went on to serve 20 years as athletic director. His wife, Kim, and their sons, Aaron and Ryan, along with his 93-year-old mother, Mildred, were among the honored guests at the dedication.
University while majoring in elementary education.
coach and teach the younger ones.
on intangibles for their success. .
“I have had a number of good players but I don’t know that I have had one that really is a student of the game. Lizzie really is and it is amazing how well she sees the development of the play. She finds girls open that nobody sees.”
Dorley often finds Megan Kelley in the open. A senior, who has played beside Dorley for four seasons, Kelley scored 63 goals this spring. She has 186 career tallies heading into the postseason. Kelley ranks second all-time in scoring, behind Ellie Grefenstette.
While Dorley plans to continue playing while studying exercise science at Mount Union, Kelley will continue her athletic career at Gannon
The Rebels are a triple threat to score against opponents because of Riley Woods. A junior attack, who lives in Bethel Park, also has produced over 50 goals this spring. She has 23 assists.
Noting he has never had three 50-goal scorers in one season, Klisavage said that Woods has “learned” a lot and “taken a lead” from Dorley.
“We know we have her next year,” he enthused.
“As a team, we have far more assists than any other team that we have ever had,” he added. “Obviously the girls look to go to the goal but they also look out for each other.
According to Klisavage, SLS’s upperclassmen have played great leadership roles, especially since the team has no middle school or feeder program. The older players
“They are all happy to get an assist as much as get a goal themselves,” he said.
Seniors Elisabeth Maleski, Bobbi Crawford, Sydney Athanas and Maddy Miller are equally enthusiastic about limiting the opposition scoring opportunities. They spearhead the defense along with Sam Barker, a sophomore goalie who has over 100 saves.
“Our defenders have been tremendous,” Klisavage said.
With Katie Gaetano and Faith Simon, the Rebels have dominated in the midfield and Hope Saksa has provided significant minutes off the bench.
“We have really depended on those players consistently,” Klisavage said.
While the Rebels lack depth, depending upon a core of 13 players, they have relied
“This group is remarkable. It doesn’t quit,” Klisavage said. “They have shown resilience and tenacity and a great deal of unity.”
Those traits and strengths along with talent will carry the Rebels through the postseason.
“You’ve got to do what has made you successful to this point,” Klisavage said. “For us, it’s having a defense that is set up to disrupt the other team’s offense and not let them set up. We’ve done that. Not take dumb fouls and play aggressive defense.
“On the attacking end, we’ve relied on our big three. They have to score obviously but we need contributions from all the others. We know our leaders and they make sure we are sharing the ball and finding openings.”
NOTES: Several area teams began their pursuit of WPIAL titles in lacrosse, too. In Class 2A boys action on May 13, Bethel Park defeated Quaker Valley, 12-10, while Chartiers Valley beat Sewickley Academy, 7-4. The Hawks moved on to face top-seeded Mars in the quarterfinals while the Colts faced Peters Township. Both games on May 15 were played after The Almanac went to print and thus results were unavailable at presstime. In Class 3A girls action on May 13, Peters Township downed North Allegheny, 15-9 while Shady Side Academy eliminated Bethel Park, 13-8. The Indians played No. 3 Mt. Lebanon in the quarterfinals on May 15. The WPIAL championships are scheduled for May 21-22 at Upper St. Clair High School stadium. Times are to be determined.
Photos by Eleanor Bailey/The Almanac
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USC wins Esports state title
The Upper St. Clair High School Esports Super Smash Bros. team captured the Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League (PSEL) spring state title during the championships held recently at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.
Auri Tarabishy, Jack Schalk and Sam Donahey comprised the three-member team.
Seeded fifth in the tournament, USC swept the No. 3 seed Pocono West High School, 3-0 in a best of five series. The Panthers defeated the No. 1 ranked Cocalico team in the semifinals.
According to the team’s adviser, Monica Erwin, all three students played exceptionally well.
“I cannot say enough about the sportsmanship and skill
of our players,” she said.
“They are an amazing group of players that I have had the privilege of coaching over the last few years.”
The squad earned an invitation to the national PlayVS cup to compete against the top 64 teams in the eastern half of the United States. Teams that win state and regional finals are invited to compete. The multi-day, single elimination, online tournament runs from May 19 to June 5.
Members of the USCHS Esports team are also competing for the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports Association (PIEA) Super Smash Bros. team and individual titles.
The five-player team of Tarabishy, Schalk, Donahey,
what’s happening
OPEN HOUSE
The Pleasant Hills Arboretum will hold an open house in celebration of its 75th anniversary from noon to 3 p.m. June 1 at 199 W. Bruceton Road.
Tree expert Paul Beck will lead a tour of the trails while ornithologist and former board member Bob Mulvihill will talk about the birds that occupy the local trees. Eagle Scout Matt Grassi will discuss his project. There will also be a tree planting by the middle school students. Additionally, Bartlett tree experts will speak on the condition of the trees in the wooded area. State Rep. Andrew Kuzma will address the importance of the arboretum to the region.
There will be refreshments, activities for children, raffles and events led by Becky Holmes for the Pleasant Hill Library.
Parking is limited. However a shuttle will run from the library and Freedom Life Church. Email grfuller61@verizon.net for further details.
CHABAD
A Soup, Wine, Cheese & Shavuot Ted Talk will be held from 8 to 10 p.m. June 1 at the Chabad of the South Hills, 1701 McFarland Road. The series of 10-minute talks will showcase important Jewish ideas. RSVP chabadsh.com/ted
A women’s spring event celebrating the Jewish homeland will be held at 7 p.m. May 28 at the Chabad of the South Hills located at 1700 Bower Hill Road. Nami Friedman will be the featured speaker. The evening cele-
brates beauty, strength and resilience of the homeland. Guests will learn hands on tips for relaxation and self-care as well as enjoy an array of wine, cheese, and desserts. There will be a raffle and auction. RSVP to Chabadsh.com/spring/.
PT REC
The Peters Township recreation center is offering the following programs:
■ iPhone 101 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. May 20. The session will teach the basics from adding contacts to downloading and using apps, browsing the web and staying organized with calendar, notes and reminders. Students must bring an iPhone, Apple ID and password to class. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers).
■ Pickleball clinics for adult beginners run from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursdays beginning May 22. Topics include equipment, scoring, rules, serve and return game, groundstrokes and volleys specifically for new players and those with limited experience. Fee is $120 ($132 nonresidents).
■ Senior Scrabble will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. May 29. A free event, it does require pre-registration. Light refreshments provided. Future Scrabble games are played the fourth Thursday of each month.
■ Tiny Tots Gym Time from 1 to 3 p.m. the first and third Friday of every month. Children 5 and under participate in unstructured playtime with a variety of toys, balls and soft play features. Parents must remain on site and supervise their children. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers).
Ricky Crawford and Chance Miles must win two more virtual rounds to advance to the in-person finals May 31 and June 1 at Mt. Aloysius College. Tarabishy and Schalk will compete in the individual bracket. Donahey and Crawford are still in the running to qualify for the individual competition.
In the PIEA league’s, Western Conference finals held at Robert Morris University, USC USC nearly swept the competition. The Super Smash Bros. captured four of the top five finishes: Tarabishy placed first, Schalk finished third, followed by Donahey and Crawford in fourth and fifth, respectively.
All four USC players advanced to the PIEA Grand Championship finals.
The team also includes Chance Miles.
“The top eight players from the region were invited to compete,” Erwin said of the PIEA conference finals. “Our Super Smash Brothers team made the grand championship bracket and will start that competition soon for the PIEA state title.”
In its fifth year, USCHS Esports is building on last year’s success. In 2024, the Super Smash Bros. team reached the state semifinals and in the individual competition, Tarabishy placed second and Schalk finished 11th in the state.
All regular season esports competitions are played virtually. The varsity-level semifinals and finals for the PIEA tournament are held in-person.
■ Sports summer camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning June 9. Ages 4 to 12 eligible. Half-day camp fee is $165. Full-day fee is $265. Before care and after care are available for additional fees.
■ Summer camps begin as early as June 6. Children up to age 12 can sign up for creative writing, dance, theater, chess and cooking camps. Fees vary.
Visit www.peterstownship. org to register or stop at the recreation center, 700 Meredith Drive. For more details, call 724-942-5000.
PT DAY
The Peters Township Community Day will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 28 at Rolling Hills Park. Fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m.
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
USC teams qualify for national STEM competition
Two Upper St. Clair High School teams recently qualified to compete at the National TEAMS Competition, set for June 27-July 1 in Nashville, Tenn.
The team of Molly Biedrzycki, Augusta Bottonari, Sophia Henderson and Harshini Sivakumar placed fifth out of 77 teams in Pennsylvania. Also earning a qualifying score is the team of Ryan Popp, Ryan Hyatt, Jacob Higgs and Ben Sewald.
TEAMS is a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) competition. Focused on a new theme each year, TEAMS challenges teams of students to collaboratively solve real-world engineering issues by applying their STEM knowledge in practical and creative ways.
Teams of two to four students compete at the state-level in February and March at their school. This one-day, three-part competition includes:
■ Design/Build – Teams design and build a solution to an engineering challenge.
■ Multiple Choice – Teams use math and science skills to solve 40 real-world engineering challenges within 60 minutes.
■ Essay – Teams research and write an in-depth essay submitted electronically prior to their competition day. This year’s theme was designing for extreme weather.
Casey Teagarden, gifted education teacher, said, “Teams had to write an essay as the project engineers building a hotel on a Caribbean island to withstand severe weather conditions. And the design and build portion required students to build and test a prototype stilt building made to withstand hurricane force winds. Students had 90 minutes to complete this task using materials such as index cards, drinking straws, and paper clips.”
Teams whose combined overall state-level score is among the top nationally are eligible to compete at the National TEAMS Competitions, which are held in conjunction with the National Technology Student Association Conference.
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.
MOBILE FEAST
Food Truck Fridays return to the Peters Township Municipal Complex, located at 610 E. McMurray Road. A variety of food trucks will be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Pittsburgher Food Truck kicks off the season on June 6. Other summer dates are: June 20, Hibachi Lou; July 11, Cousins Maine Lobster; July 25, Trucking’ Triangles; Aug. 1, Chicks’ N Waffles; Aug. 15, Hummus Pittsburgh.
Visit peterstownship.com or call 724-941-4180 for more details.
BP LIBRARY
The Bethel Park Library, located at 5100 W. Library Ave., offers the following this month:
■ Masters of the Air at 6:30 p.m. May 21. The lecture explains the history of the United States Army Air Force as well as 10 things people typically don’t know about the organization.
■ Idlewild: History and Memories of Pennsylvania’s oldest amusement park at 6:30 p.m. May 29. Jennifer Sopko shares history and stories about Ligonier’s landmark park.
■ Family Fun Nights are held at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through May 22. The event is appropriate for children in kindergarten through second grade with their caregiver. Children watch clips from PBS shows, share stories
and engage with animated characters.
■ Art show. Toddlers through teens can participate in displaying all media forms of art. Up to three submissions are needed by May 27. Artwork will be displayed through the summer in the library. Artists can put their items up for auction or have them returned. Proceeds from the auction benefit the library.
Visit bethelparklibrary.org or call 412-835-2207 for more details or to register.
GENEALOGY
The Mt. Lebanon Genealogy Society will meet at 1 p.m. May 19 in the audio-visual room of the Mt. Lebanon Public Library.
The roundtable discussion topic will be: Lesser Known Websites for Genealogy Research. Members will submit in advance some of the websites where they have experienced success in their genealogy research. New members can attend.
Email: malcolm.andrews1949@gmail.com for further information.
VBS
Registration is being accepted at christumc.net/vbs for its Summer Vacation Bible School. Live it Out will be offered from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, June 23-27. Ages 3 (toilet trained) through students in fifth grade can attend the camp that uses crafts, songs and snacks to learn Bible stories.
WROC EVENTS
The Westminster Recreation and Outreach Center offers the following at Westminster
Presbyterian Church, located at 2040 Washington Road in Upper St. Clair:
■ Cardio Strength Fusion from 8 to 9 a.m. beginning May 2. Fees are $56 for Mondays and Wednesdays and $64 for Fridays.
■ Zumba from 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays; 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Saturdays in May and June. Drop in fee is $10.
■ Barre Sculpt, which fuses ballet, yoga and Pilates, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays beginning May 6. Fee is $64.
■ Stronger Bones/Better Balance from 10:10 to 11:10 a.m. Tuesdays beginning May 6. Fee is $56.
■ Flow Yoga from 9 to 10 a.m. beginning May 6. Classes are offered Tuesday and Thursday. Fee is $56.
■ Cardio Drumming from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m. Fridays beginning May 9. Visit wroc.westminster-church.org to register or more details or call 412-8356630.
BUS TRIP
A one-day bus trip to Cleveland will be offered through the Peters Township recreation department on June 4. Departure is at 7 a.m. Return time is 9 p.m. Fee is $199 and includes transportation, lunch, admissions per itinerary, meal and taxes. The group will visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and tour the grounds of Lakeview Cemetery and Gardens as well as visit the West Side Market. Visit www.peterstownship.com to register or call 724-942-5000 for more details.
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Members of the two teams from Upper St. Clair that qualified for the National TEAMS competition included Molly Biedrzycki, Augusta Bottonari, Sophia Henderson and Harshini Sivakumar as well as Ryan Popp, Ryan Hyatt, Jacob Higgs and Ben Sewald.
From left are Sam Donahey, Jack Schalk, Auri Tarabishy and Monica Erwin.