The Almanac - April 5, 2026

EASTER’S SWEET STORY

Jellybeans tell church’s saga

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

When children awakened on April 5, they enthusiastically searched for their baskets. They couldn’t wait to taste all the chocolate bunnies and eggs, but Christ United Methodist Church hoped they relished both the sweet taste and meaning behind the jellybeans.

A week before the Bethel Park church held its Easter services, it spread the good news of the season through an event it dubbed “Bunny Bonanza.” In addition to a visit with the Easter Bunny, games and breakfast, more than 1,000 visitors learned about Jesus through the use of the simple jellybean. Each of the colors –green, black, red, orange, white, purple, yellow and pink – represented Christ’s Passion and Resurrection.

“Easter is the most special time of year,” said Jess Gilman, who is the church’s event planning director. “We learn about how Jesus died on the cross and saved us from our sins. That and the hope of having eternal life in heaven is the best gift we could ever have.”

Gillman added that through the Bunny Bonanza, the church was able to tell the story to everyone they encountered and instead of its usual egg hunt, jellybeans were used to relay the message.

“We’re super excited about the changes,” said Jennifer Morgan, who is the church’s communication director. “This was a great way to give the community a little taste of what the church is about and welcome them back to worship with us and to tell the wonderful story about Easter.”

Nearly 600 adults and more than 500 children attended the Bunny Bonanza held March 28. A free breakfast returned to the event, which also included a petting zoo and crafts.

While Owen and Caden Booth said the best part of Easter is all the treats, their mother, Danielle, noted the joy of watching SEE EASTER PAGE A2

‘Orchids are for everyone’ Flowers will be on display during annual show

By Jill Thurston jthurston@observer-reporter.com

Orchids are for … well, everyone. That’s the message from the Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania (OSWP) as it prepares for its annual orchid show April 11 and 12 at the Crown Plaza Hotel, 164 Fort Couch Road in Upper St. Clair. Orchids grow almost everywhere, on nearly every continent. The delicate blooms are the largest species of plants on the earth. With more than 30,000 species and 200,000 hybrids, there is presumably

an orchid out there for everyone.

“Truly, orchids are for everyone. You will find one that speaks to you, and the barriers to entry for growing orchids are much lower than what a person might think,” said OSWP member Brian Powell of Monroeville.

The orchid show has become a Pittsburgh tradition, Powell believes. “It’s becoming more and more well known, generally by word of mouth.”

“They have what I consider to be world-class displays of orchids … elaborate, in all shapes, colors and sizes of flowers. There are orchids that

look like a slipper, almost as if you had tiny feet you could put your feet in these orchids. You have orchids that are non-fragrant and some that are wonderfully fragrant,” Powell said. Some orchids grow without media, like the epiphytic orchids that grow seemingly in midair and others that grow in coarse media (like tree bark).

Powell’s favorite?

“The ones that I don’t kill,” said Powell. “I love the Vanda. It’s an epiphytic orchid and generally grows without any media.” These types of orchids have aerial roots and need to be watered or misted daily.

The two-day show will include lectures on orchid care, re-potting services for a small fee, orchid

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

Chaos erupted on March 28 at Mt. Lebanon Park as hundreds of children scoured the hillside in pursuit of colored-plastic eggs filled with candy treats and toy prizes.

“It’s a free-for-all kind of deal,” admitted Zach Wolling. Mt. Lebanon’s program manager grew up in Mt. Lebanon and participated in a similar egg hunt as a youth before settling in neighboring Bethel Park to raise his own family.

Some 500 eggs were scattered throughout an area in the park roped off by tape and divided by age groups. After a 10-second countdown, kids aged 7 and under along with their parents and guardians ripped through the paper barrier and scurried up the hill to fill their

baskets. An additional 500 eggs were hidden inside the recreation center for a special hunt held March 31 on the ice rink.

“This is one of our great special events which we offer that brings the whole community out. You know, all the little kids get a chance to come and just be here in the park. They get a chance to run up the hill and grab as many eggs as they can.”

Additionally, participants were able to have their pictures taken with the Easter bunnies that made a special appearance at the event. Chris Moore and his wife, Emily, took advantage of that opportunity to be photographed with their children, George and Harvey. “This was awesome,” Chris Moore said of the “eggs-travaganza.” More Egg Hunt photos on A2.

sales from vendors as far away as Ecuador as well as local vendors, crafts and raffles.

Sheila Nathanson of Mt. Lebanon joined OSWP more than 10 years

ago after several years of buying orchids at the orchid show.

“There are things you can’t find anywhere else,” she said. “And when you first start out growing or -

chids, you have no idea really if you can grow something or not, but it hits your eye and you just have to have it.”

Easter

them have fun and the significance of the holiday.

“I’m glad they brought the breakfast back, and the jellybeans were so cute. I like that each color represented something and they told what they stood for and the story of Easter.”

Stephanie Hoffman, who has worked at the church for the past two years, concurred that the event succeeded in delivering the message of the celebration.

“It’s extremely joyful, fun and amazing to help these kiddos grow in their spiritual journey,” she said.

“Every year, we are able to put on an amazing event by coming up with something fresh. We’re excited that so many people come. There’s something new and exciting for everyone.”

Sandy Marks agreed. She and her husband, Aaron, brought their three children, Sandy, Theo and Beau, to the event. The Upper St. Clair children attend the church’s preschool.

“The school is amazing. They have a huge wing for the children,” Sandy Marks said. “It’s a great place for them and their programming is amazing. We were excited to come to the bunny breakfast, learn about the story of Easter and meet the bunny.”

Orchids

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For some time, she grew orchids in an empty hot tub in the four season room attached to her home. After she and her husband refurbished the room and made it a proper greenhouse, she began accumulating more plant life. She now has close to 500 orchids.

“A lot of them are small, not all of them are monsters. I spend a lot of time watering. But it’s good. In the winter time, when you come into the greenhouse, it’s sunny and there’s living things and there is snow and cold outside and you are in your little oasis,” Nathanson said.

Nancy Kline of Pine Township is a longtime OSWP member and lecturer.

“For most people, an orchid is a phalaenopsis, the ones you can get at the grocery store and Home Depot,” which she says can be “little devils,” she said. “You have to keep it healthy. Phaleanopsis have to have a cooldown in the fall, kind of like our perennials. Orchids are just tropical perennials. You have certain plants that bloom when certain conditions are met,” she explained.

She has led sessions on the history of orchids, how not to kill your orchids, caring for pha -

laenopsis orchids and sessions focused simply on questions about orchids.

She’s cultivated orchids for years, “but I’m on the downhill run. At one point I had 300 orchids; now I have about 60,” Kline said. On a recent trip into her basement where she grows orchids under LED lights, she found her Brassavola Glauca had opened two blooms with three more to open. She placed it on the windowsill upstairs and told her son and daughter-in-law who stopped by, “This is why you grow orchids.”

Kline has been an OSWP member since 2003 and applauds the organization. “We are a great group of men and women, young and old,” said Kline. “Our vice president is in high school … and we have members in their 80s and 90s.”

The orchid society meets monthly at the Spartan Community Center of Hazelwood.

The orchid show exhibits are open from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, and vendors will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both exhibits and vendors are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5 (members and those under 18 are free). For more information, go to https://www.oswp.org/.

call

Spencer Family YMCA expands Healthy Kids Day event

By Paul Paterra ppaterra@observer-reporter.com

Anne Poutos, Spencer Family YMCA advisory board member. “The Y is always looking

to see how (it) can reach more people within the community and really have the Y be an asset for the larger community.”

Healthy Kids Day is the YMCA’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids and families.

Lindsay Meucci, St. Clair Health vice president of marketing, communications and advocacy, said the organization held a health fair in the past and the YMCA wanted to partner with agency on the event.

“They remembered what we used to do several years ago at South Hills Village prior to the start of the pandemic where we would offer free screenings and different programs for community members just to come and learn more about our services,” Meucci said. “We’re really excited because we’re going to have about 15 differ-

ent service lines represented across our health system that day where people can come and meet some of our providers, learn more about the programs and services that we offer. There’s so many out there that I don’t think people are aware are available to them.”

The Spencer Family YMCA will be providing samples of some of its classes throughout the day ranging from tot-sized to seniors, such as Mommy & Me, Zumba and Cardio Hip Hop.

There also will be information available about many of the YMCA’s programs like Livestrong for cancer survivors, which features survivors working with trainers on cardio and strength training.

There’s also the Veterans Wellness program for veterans and their spouses that runs for 12 weeks and not only focuses on cardio, but gives them a sense of community and social interaction.

“The more community outreach events we do, the more

people know about us,” said Sarah Knight, Spencer Family YMCA healthy living director. “We are here to serve the community.”

Other activities scheduled for the day include Touch-aTruck and car seat checks. Local police, fire and emergency medical services will be in attendance as well as two horses from the City of Pittsburgh’s Mounted Police.

There also will be food trucks and a disc jockey on hand.

“We want to showcase everything that we offer,” Knight said. “We are not just a gym. We are a community. The Spencer YMCA is essential to the South Hills. A lot of people don’t work their social muscle. A lot of friendships happen here and it’s what people need post-COVID.”

Mount Lebanon Historical Society hosts events

South Hills residents don’t necessarily have to travel into the City of Pittsburgh to get their fill of football while the NFL hosts its annual amateur draft from April 23-25.

The Historical Society of Mount Lebanon will satiate their appetite with pigskin-related events.

On April 23, Friday Night Lights opens at the nonprofit educational organization that interprets and preserves the history of the municipality.

The new exhibit captures the excitement of game night and showcases the history and community behind this western Pennsylvania autumn tradition. From

Michael Eck

the pre-game rituals and fan preparations to the unmistakable sounds of the award-winning Blue Devil marching band, the exhibit explores how football Friday nights has lit up communities for

decades and continues to bring joy and excitement to the Pittsburgh suburb. Interactive displays, local stories and memorabilia are featured. Admission is free.

On April 25 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. the Historical Society welcomes Michael Eck. The Mt. Lebanon alum will discuss his new book. “Strike Season” recalls the 1979 championship team that played on during the district’s teachers strike. Many of the coaches walked the picket line because they were members of the teachers’ union. So, the players coached themselves.

Eck earned a full foot -

ball scholarship to the University of Virginia from 1980-1984. In 1987, he received a masters degree from the J.L. Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Eck is also the founder of the nonprofit STEER for Student Athletes. The organization provides mentorship to support student athletes from challenging circumstances. Admission to the event is $10 ($15 nonmembers).

Visit lebohistory.org and drop down to the events section to order tickets for the event.

Upper St. Clair seeks Halls of Fame nominations

Do you know an Upper St. Clair High School graduate, former staff member or volunteer who has made an impact in academics, the arts or athletics?

Consider nominating him or her for the 2026 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame. The deadline for nominations is April 30.

Founded in 2000, the USC Halls of Fame honors those who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate or professional

level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of the high school.

“This is a great opportunity to recognize the extraordinary men and women who comprise the storied tradition of excellence here

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South Fayette trio wins competition

The trio will go to Harrisburg later this spring to make their presentation to Secretary of Transportation Michael Carroll and his cabinet in hopes of winning the state competition. The challenge is a statewide competition that challenges teams of students in ninth through 12th grades to use their problem-solving, creative, and strategic thinking abilities to solve real-world transportation challenges. Regional winners are selected by PennDOT’s engineering districts. Each regional winner moves on to the statewide competition.

HoF

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at Upper St. Clair High School,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, who is the Halls of Fame chairperson. “Our inductees serve as outstanding role models for our current students.”

Nominees may be alumni who graduated five or more years ago, former staff members and/or former volunteers of the high school. Nominations may be completed online at uscsd.k12.pa.us/information/alumni/hallsof-fame. Those selected for the new class of inductees will be honored during a celebration on Sept. 24. Contact Wagner at 412-833-1600 ext. 2530 or email hof@uscsd.k12. pa.us for more information.

JOX SHINES IN PITT. WRESTLING CLASSIC

Lebo grappler scores technical fall in final match

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

Paige Jox of Mt. Lebanon was a little dubious about participating in the 52nd Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic (PWC) but she was blown away once she competed in the event, which is dubbed The Rose Bowl of High School Wrestling.

“At first, I was skeptical but the whole event was so awesome,” Jox said. “When I went into it, I didn’t think it would be so fun but I had a great time.”

Jox and all the girls and boys competing in the event, which was held on March 28 at the AHN Arena on the Peters Township High School campus, were treated like royalty.

“The event was set up so nicely,” Jox said. “We got all this great gear, stayed in a nice hotel

(Hilton Garden Inn) and they even had an amazing banquet. Plus,” she added, “all the wrestlers did so well.”

Jox and the Pennsylvania Girls All-Stars certainly performed well. In fact, they wrestled to near perfection, defeating

was unsuccessful in his attempt as he dropped a 4-0 decision in the 160-pound match during the Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic. Despite Gibbons’ loss, Pennsylvania defeated an all-star team from Oklahmona, 56-3.

a team of the best grapplers in the state of Oklahoma, 51-3.

“I definitely expect us to win,” Jox said. “I did not expect the score to be that significant. All the wrestlers were talented.”

Jox certainly fell into that category. During her scholastic career at Mt. Lebanon, she compiled a 106-28 record with 49 falls to go along with three medals in both district and regional competition.

This winter, Jox captured WPIAL and Southwest Regional titles. She took the bronze medal during the PIAA state championships. Jox posted a 36-7 record.

“It makes me proud how well I did this year because there are so many great girls wrestling in the state,” Jox said. “In the end I figured out my place.”

Jox jumped up to 148 after wrestling at 118 and 124 in previous years. She said the transition was not easy.

“At first I had a lot of doubt, not that I thought I couldn’t do it but with how strong I would be against the other girls. I had to overcome my personal struggles because obviously moving up five

Gibbons named Almanac Most Valuable Grappler

Gibbons (left) of Mt. Lebanon fights hand-to-hand with his opponent during the Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic. The

to participate in the prestigious event earned the distinction as The Almanac’s Most Valuable Grappler for that achievement as well as his showing at the state tournament. By Eleanor Bailey

ebailey@thealmanac.net

Cole Gibbons of Mt. Lebanon accomplished nearly everything possible during his scholastic wrestling career. He won more than 100 matches to join a select few in the school’s Century Club. He collected more than a dozen medals and won his share of championships. He also garnered honors, including being selected to participate in one of the most prestigious post-season wrestling events in the county.

Today, Gibbons earns another achievement that further cements his legacy at Lebo. The senior has been named The Almanac’s Most Valuable Grappler for the 2026 wrestling season.

Gibbons was a unanimous choice. When polled by participating coaches in The Almanac’s all-star selection survey, Gibbons was nominated as MVP on all ballots.

Gibbons headlines The Almanac wrestling all-star team, which is selected annually with the help of the area coaches in the readership area. They are asked to nominate team members that deserve recognition and supply supporting data, including records. Based on the information as well as matches covered by The Almanac, a wrestler is then selected in each weight classification. Final picks in each weight are based on where the

wrestler finished the competitive season, regardless of record.

Gibbons finished at the top of his class. This winter, he rolled up a 41-8 record. He captured championships in Allegheny County, the section and the WPIAL. He was a regional runner-up and a state medalist, placing sixth at 160 in the PIAA championships.

Gibbons polished off his scholastic career with an appearance in the 52nd annual Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic. He represented the WPIAL in an all-star matchup against Oklahoma’s best. During the exhibition, the WPIAL defeated Oklahoma, 563.

“I was honored to be a part of something so historic,” Gibbons said of the Classic, which is dubbed the Rose Bowl of High School Wrestling. “Truly blessed to be able to say I competed in that historic event,” he added.

Gibbons carved out his own spot in the annals of Mt. Lebanon wrestling history.

During the Moon Duals held Dec. 13, 2025, Gibbons scored a last-second takedown to beat Ewan Olson of Derry, 7-5, for his 100th career victory.

The achievement is extraordinary because Gibbons is among only a handful of grapplers to reach the plateau although Mt. Lebanon has produced more than a dozen state

weight classes is a challenge.”

Jox had little difficulty dispatching her opponent in the PWC. She scored technical fall, 20-4, against Makenna Howell, who was the state runner-up in Oklahoma this winter.

“While I actually had no clue as to who she was, I figured if I did what I normally do, then I would be okay,” Jox said.

“I did all that I planned to do and did a good job of that. I thought my match went well.”

All the matches for Pennsylvania went well. There were four wins by fall, two by tech fall and one by major decision. The lone loss came by decision, 11-4, at 112.

“I am so proud of my team,” Jox said. “I think we showed how good girls wrestling is in this state. The weight classes are so much deeper and there are more talented girls than any other states.”

Jox added that competing in the PWC was “a great way” to end her scholastic career. She noted the many fans, friends and family that showed up to support her. “I appreciated everything,” she said.

Jox will wrestle at Washing-

ton & Jefferson College. She prepares for that transition by competing nationally. On April 9, she will participate in the women’s nationals being held in Spokane. She is also looking forward to the 2025 U.S. Marine Corps Junior Nationals to be held July 10-19 in the FargoDome in Fargo, N.D.

“I’m going to keep wrestling,” she said. “I am thrilled with how my high school career turned out but I am looking forward to taking that next step at W&J.” Cole Gibbons has already moved on from wrestling. The Mt. Lebanon senior is now playing lacrosse and looking to help the Blue Devils win their fourth straight WPIAL title this spring. Gibbons, like Jox, competed in the PWC. Despite a tough 4-0 loss to Garon Kaiser, a state champion with a 126-41 record, at 160, Gibbons said the experience was a positive one as the WPIAL all-stars defeated Oklahoma, 56-3.

“I had a great time at the Classic,” he said. “I was honored to be a part of something so historic. Truly blessed to be able to say I competed in the event.” Gibbons enjoyed a scholastic career that few at Mt. Lebanon have experienced. A member of the Century Club, he posted a 133-44 record, complete with 52 pins. This winter, he captured WPIAL and Southwest Regional titles before securing a sixthplace medal at the PIAA state championships. Gibbons will wrestle at New York University. In the main event at the PWC, the United States All-Stars defeated Pennsylvania, 23-19. The U.S. is 22-3 against the state since 2000. The last time Pennsylvania won the competition was in 2021 with a 27-23 victory. “The boys competition was really impressive,” said Jox.

Peters Township quarterback wins Willie Thrower Award

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

During Spring Break, Nolan DiLucia, like any other college student, did his share of traveling.

“Nothing exotic,” he said. “The best place to be is in my home.”

Home, indeed, was where the heart was for the McMurray native. He spent Easter with his parents, Jennifer and Michael, as well as his older brother, Jake. A week earlier, he enjoyed quality time with the family but this time celebrating another feather in his cap as Peters Township quarterback.

On March 28, DiLucia, who enrolled at Villanova University in January, won the Willie Thrower Award, presented to the top high school football quarterback from the WPIAL and City League.

“I was very happy and excited to win this,” DiLucia said.

In its sixth year, the honor is named after the late Willie

Thrower, the first Black quarterback to appear in an NFL game, with the Chicago Bears in 1953. Thrower began his career by helping lead the former New Kensington High School to WPIAL titles in 1946 and ’47, along with a runner-up finish in 1945. He was also the first Black quarterback in the Big Ten Conference, contributing to Michigan State’s 1952 national championship.

DiLucia beat out a group of finalists that included Upper St. Clair’s Ethan Hellmann as well as Pine-Richland’s Aaron Strader, Avonworth’s Carson Bellinger and North Catholic’s Joey Felitsky.

“All my hard work paid off,” DiLucia said. “It’s a good award to end my high school career.”

DiLucia enjoyed a prolific scholastic career. A three-time all-state selection, he etched his name in the record books. He ranks No. 2 as the alltime passing leader in the WPIAL. His 8,819 career passing yards trail only South Fayette’s Brett Brumbaugh’s 11,084.

champions.

Luke Stout leads the list with 153 career wins followed by his brothers, Kellan (138) and Mac (133). Nathan Hoagland (110), Jackson Gray (106) and Ben Lloyd (104) are also members of the Century Club. Gibbons finished 133-44 overall with 52 career falls.

Of the 100-plus win milestone Gibbons said, “It’s the standard and to be one of only a few from Mt. Lebanon to have done it is 100 percent meaningful. It felt amazing to have accomplished that.” Off the mats, Gibbons has attained much. He is a threetime WPIAL champion in lacrosse, an outstanding student with a 4.6 overall grade point average, a champion in Future Business Leaders of America competitions and, last but not least, the school’s mascot for football and basketball frays.

Gibbons also is a scholarship winner. He will continue his wrestling career at New York University while pursuing a career in business.

“I think it’s a perfect fit

for me,” he said. “I wanted a high level of academics and a good wrestling program.”

SALA REPEATS

Evan Sala joins Gibbons on The Almanac all-star list again. He was a selection last season as a sophomore.

A junior, Sala managed a 25-10 mark to improve 6428 overall for his career. Sala was the section runner-up and fifth-place finisher in the WPIAL at 127 pounds. He qualified for the regional tournament but was unable to advance to the PIAA tournament.

SF DUO

South Fayette had many standout wrestlers this winter but Conner Dean and Peter Leventis proved a dominant one-two punch for the Lions.

A freshman, Dean garnered Almanac Rookie of the Year honors. He posted a 2615 overall record this winter. “Connor had an outstanding season as a freshman,” said South Fayette head coach Rich Chaussard. “He competed in one of the hardest sections, maybe in the state, with four of the top ranked wrestlers in the district and state in his weight class.

“Connor is one of the most underrated, dedicated and hardest wrestlers on the team,” Chaussard added.

Peter Leventis put a stamp on his standout career becoming the latest Lion to enter the Century Club. He finished 114-48 overall after posting a 42-12 record this winter. Leventis was an Allegheny County champion as well as a medalist at the TRICADA (third) and Burgettstown (fifth) tournaments.

A bronze-medalist in the South Sectional, Leventis placed seventh in the WPIAL. He also was a PIAA West Regional qualifier.

“With 42 wins, Peter finished eighth on the single-season win list at South Fayette,” Chaussard noted.

Of his team captain Chaussard added, “Peter’s leadership on and off the mat with helping teammates was exceptional.”

3 FOR 30

Three Almanac wrestling all-stars amassed 30 or more victories this winter.

Nicholas McGarrity topped this list with his 36-6 record. A junior, who was the Almanac’s MVP last season, suffered an injury late in the season that inhibited his performance in the PIAA regional tournament.

After winning his third

ELEANOR BAILEY

Cole Gibbons of Mt. Lebanon maintains a solid grip on Garon Kaiser from Oklahoma during Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic action. Gibbons finished his career with a 133-444 overall record that featured 52 falls. He was this year’s WPIAL champion at 160 pounds and regional runner-up as well as state medalist.

section title, McGarrity finished sixth in the WPIAL.

McGarrity, who is 123-15 overall with 69 career falls, committed to Stanford University back in October.

Bethel Park’s Ian Bucheli and Colton Fisher were both 30-match winners this winter. Both are juniors.

After his 33-9 season, Bucheli is 19 wins away from entering the Century Club. This winter, he was the section runner-up, the sixth-

Almanac Wrestling All-Stars

107 Conner Dean, South Fayette 26-15

place finisher in the WPIAL and a regional qualifier.

Fisher finished fourth in the section and seventh in the WPIAL. He did not place in the regional. He posted a 30-18 record to improve his overall mark to 73-44, some 27 wins away from the Century Club.

CV TRIO

Chartiers Valley dominated at the heavier weights this winter, placing three

114 Nicholas McGarrity, Peters Township 36-6 (6th in WPIAL)

121 Alisher Abdurakhmanov, Upper St. Clair 17-17

127 Evan Sala, Mt. Lebanon 25-10 (5th in WPIAL)

133 Kurt Baran, Upper St. Clair 15-11

139 Peter Leventis, South Fayette 42-12 (7th WPIAL)

145, Ian Bucheli, Bethel Park 33-9 (5th, WPIAL)

152 Colton Fisher, Bethel Park 30-18 (7th, WPIAL)

160 Cole Gibbons, Mt. Lebanon 41-8 (1st, WPIAL)

172 Michael Lawrence, Chartiers Valley 35-10 (6th, WPIAL)

189 Musabek Sadyrbekov, Chartiers Valley 30-10 (5th, WPIAL)

215 Wyar Alozie, Chartiers Valley 17-18

285 Alex Zwevallos, USC 28-12

MVP Cole Gibbons

Honorable Mention: Carson Elder, Caleb Crawford – Bethel Park; Tilek Sadyrbekov –Chartiers Valley; Ben Mares, Carson Cannone, Eddie Ercegovic, Ewan Keplar – Mt. Lebanon; Landen Pusateri – Peters Township; Brock Dennison, Donavan Goins – South Fayette; Spencer Hills, Mateo Amorosa, Derek Worstell, Bryce Catanzaro, Luca Coury, Will Stohl –Upper St. Clair

ROTY Conner Dean

FEATURED BRANDS

grapplers in a row on The Almanac all-star list.

Michael Lawrence ruled the 172-pound weight class. With 110 career victories, he ranks in the Top 10 in all-time wins for Chartiers Valley. According to head coach Billy Evans, “Michael was one of the top five most athletic wrestlers that I have ever coached.” A standout on the gridiron for the Colts, he will play football at Clarion this fall.

During the 2026 wrestling season, Lawrence compiled a 35-10 record. The team captain finished fourth in the Allegheny County championships, third in the section and sixth in the WPIAL.

Musabek Sadyrbekov, like his brother Tilek who wrestled at 139, is new to the sport. The siblings came to America from Kyrgyzstan two years ago. “Musabek is quickly becoming one of the top wrestlers to watch in the WPIAL and state,” said Evans.

A sophomore, Sadyrbekov was the 189-pound runner-up in Allegheny County. He finished fourth in the section and fifth in the WPIAL. He compiled a 30-10 record this winter. Another sophomore, Wyar Alozie was a WPIAL qualifier at 215 pounds. He placed sixth in the sectional and finished with 17 victories in 35 matches this season.

USC ADDS 3

Upper St. Clair also put three wrestlers on The Almanac all-star list.

At 121, Alisher Abdurakhmanov posted a 17-17 record. He is a two-time Almanac all-star. Kurt Baran finished at 1511 overall at 133 while Alex Zevallos dominated the heavyweight division. A junior, Zevallos registered a 28-12 record. After starting the season fifth at the Burgettstown Tournament, he improved to third in Allegheny County. A WPIAL qualifier, he finished fifth in the section.

sights & sounds

Little Lake brings Land of Oz to the stage

By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Anyone feeling nostalgic for the classic story that has spawned generations of fans may want to see “The Wizard of Oz,” which is at Little Lake Theatre through April 19.

The timeless children’s tale aligns perfectly with this year’s theme at the theater: “Home Is Where the Heart Is.”

Artistic Director Patrick Cannon believes the story resonates today.

“Right now, I think people are craving stories about home, belonging and finding your courage in uncertain times,” Cannon said.

“Dorothy’s journey is about leaving a place you think you know, encountering all kinds of people along the way and realizing that the things you were searching for are often already inside you – or are waiting for you back home.” Tin Man creaksand speaks Pittsburgh resident Cole Vecchio plays the Tin Man, and he

explained that “what most audiences don’t understand is that he was once a human being,” noting that the audience will gain fresh insight into the ax-wielding woodsman.

Rehearsals have allowed the actor to experiment with how he approaches the role. “The Tin Man is comical, especially as the straight man to the Cowardly Lion’s melodrama and the Scarecrow’s clumsiness,” Vecchio said. Vecchio notes that the metal woodsman has a romantic side.

“He loves love,” Vecchio said, explaining that the character may not fall in love with someone in this play, but that audiences will soon understand this part of him. To capture that quality, Vecchio drew inspiration from famous crooners like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, giving the character classic Hollywood charm.

He added, “There are also moments in the show where the Tin Man is required to have more fluidity and naturalism and what helped me there was studying the animatronics at Disney

World. They possess a kind of silky smoothness in their movements that make them seem almost human, and yet, you’re still reminded of their mechanical nature,” he added. Dorothy resonates

Alaina Turocy, who plays Dorothy, notes that while the character is portrayed as innocent and wide-eyed, she also embodies ferocity, grit and relentless optimism. “She has a strong sense of right and wrong and her go-getter attitude will resonate with contemporary audiences, especially young girls,” she said.

For Turocy, finding Dorothy’s voice was key.

“I wanted to make her feel like a real girl, unconstrained by the expectations of a particular time period,” she said.

While the production delivers all the well-known imagery audi-

Tartan Day to be celebrated April 11

Pittsburgh Tartan Day 2026 will be special this year. Not only is it occurring as the nation is celebrating its 250th anniversary, it also is occurring during the 250th anniversary of Bethel Presbyterian Church, where the commemoration is held annually.

“We will be celebrating both anniversaries,” said event organizer Pam Maniet.

“The church was founded by a Scottish minister and it is very cool that we celebrate all things Scottish at the church,” she added.

This year’s event is scheduled for April 11 at the church at 2999 Bethel Church Road. Admission and parking are free.

Vendors, Scottish food, entertainment and raffles will be featured along with workshops and clans performing traditional dances, songs and crafts.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Two new exhibitors will be featured this year.

Britsburgh is an organization that promotes British history, culture and traditions.

Westie Rescue of Pennsylvania is a nonprofit that rescues West Highland Terriers in need. The group

Thrower

For his career, DiLucia accumulated 1,379 rushing yards and 17 TDs to add to his total of 81 passing touchdowns. Defensively, DiLucia had 211 career tackles and four interceptions. In the fall, DiLucia led the Indians to the WPIAL Class 5A championship, engineering the biggest comeback in the league’s history. Peters Township rallied from a 19-0 halftime deficit to stun No. 1 Pine-Richland, 20-19, in the title game played Nov. 22 at Acrisure Stadium.

DiLucia also guided the Indians to a conference championship and a PIAA semifinal appearance. Peters Township finished 13-1 overall after falling to Bishop McDevitt of Harrisburg, 3128, on a last-second field goal on Nov. 29 at Mansion Park in Altoona. During the 2025 campaign, DiLucia passed for 2,782 yards and had 22 touchdowns to only six interceptions. As pleased as he was to win the Willie Thrower Award, DiLucia was also a bit relieved. He had been nominated for the distinction two other times.

Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg won the honor in 2024 and Central Cath -

also helps with potential adoptions, fostering families and volunteers. Additionally, there will be nine Scottish clans represented. Maniet also noted that one of the featured Scottish Highland dance acts actually performed for Queen Elizabeth II a few weeks before her passing. Tartan Day recognizes the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath (which provided Scotland’s independence and sovereignty over its own lands). Thomas Jefferson used this declaration to craft the Declaration of Independence.

Three members of the St. Andrew Society will be recognized during the day’s festivities. All passed away in 2025.

Remembered will be Larry Kasiorek, 73, Sarah Jean Thompson, 79, and Don Campbell, 82. According to Maniet, all three played “significant” roles in the group.

The event will also recall Drew Ross Manko, who died in 2025. He was a regular vendor, selling yarn as well as explaining the wool process. Earlier this year, his family lost more than 100 sheep prized for their wool when a fire swept through the farm’s barn.

olic’s Payton Wehner was the 2023 recipient. Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer (2020) and Armstrong’s Caden Olsen (2021 and 2022) were the other awardees.

“I would have been upset if I didn’t win,” he said. “I wanted to win at least one because this means a lot to me. It means that I’m the best in southwest Pennsylvania. It’s definitely one of my top awards and it also keeps me humble and working hard.”

Lifting the 29-pound trophy was a challenge. “It was really heavy. Heavier than I expected,” DiLucia said with a laugh. “I put it in my bedroom next to all my other words.”

DiLucia is currently working on the next set of awards and achievements in his career.

While also attending classes at Villanova, he has been working out at quarterback for the Wildcats during spring football drills, which conclude April 17.

“It’s been smooth sailing,” DiLucia remarked. “It’s a lot of studying and learning a whole new playbook but I have been competing every day and getting comfortable. The college game is faster and I’m adjusting to that. I’m the brand new guy here so I have to work my way up.”

DiLucia said that he

hoped to make “an impact” during his freshman year this autumn. He added that he is getting better every day.

“Right now we all are competing but the goal is just to win games. I want to win. That’s all I’ve ever wanted to do.”

Under his tenure, Peters Township won a lot. The Indians sported a 45-8 record with two conference and district championships and a PIAA state runner-up trophy. As a signal caller, he was 39-4 overall.

If history repeats itself, then DiLucia will guide the Wildcats to many victories. He could also garner himself a few more awards.

As a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) school, he could eventually be eligible for the Walter Payton Award, which is the equivalent of the Heisman Trophy for FCS players. For now, he has his eye on the Jerry Rice Award, which is presented to the most outstanding freshman player at the NCAA Division I FCS level.

“I would be grateful for any award,” he said. “Having a perfect record though would be the real goal.”

ences expect – from the costume design, to the choreography—it also explores characters in fresh ways.

The audience will probably already know “Over the Rainbow,” but they will also become familiar with “The Jitterbug,” a catchy, high-energy dance number that was cut from the 1939 film, according to Turocy.

For those seeing the story for the first time, Turocy hopes to portray Dorothy in such a way that allows children to see themselves in her.

“Whether they connect with her wild imagination, her courage in standing up to bullies, or even her love of animals, I hope they recognize and celebrate parts of themselves through her,” she said.

As for adults, Turocy hopes that they will come away with a

reminder of gratitude and community. “In the beginning, she wants nothing more than to get away, but in the end, she recognizes the magic in her family back in Kansas.” Lights, camera, Oz

Cannon said the goal is to make the audience feel as though they are stepping directly into Oz.

“When Dorothy lands in Oz, the world suddenly feels brighter, bigger and full of possibility,” Cannon said. “It is very theatrical and our designers are working together intentionally so that lighting, costumes, and scenic elements all evolve together.”

The show features a live band and a large community cast—an ambitious undertaking in the theater’s intimate 145-seat space.

More than 65 community members are helping to bring that world to life onstage.

“It is most likely the largest production team in our 78-year history,” Cannon said. Cannon believes that audiences will be impressed by the caliber of talent on stage.

“One of the great strengths of Little Lake is the depth of artists in this region and the cast really reflects that,” he said. Ultimately, he hopes audiences will leave with an appreciation for the magic of live theater.

“We’re not trying to recreate the film,” according to Cannon. “We’re leaning into what theater does best – transforming what is happening right in front of you through the shared imagination between artists and audience. When that works, the room feels electric.”

For additional information and showtimes, go online to littlelake.org.

what’s happening

WOODVILLE

Opening day at the Woodville Experience will be April 12 at 1375 Washington Pike. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. In addition to guided and self-guided tours and adventures, there will be a blacksmith demonstration, militia display and lambs from Ross Farms as well as a spinning demonstration. Visitors can check out the heritage gardens and a chicken coop. Visit woodville-experience.org or call 412-2210348 for more details.

AUP

The Association of University People (AUP) is looking for new members. The group is open to singles 50 and over who are four-year college graduates. The group participates in events including happy hour, brunches, lunches, dinners, meet-ups at live music venues, unique book group, day trips and Scrabble. Those interested can attend three activities as guests before deciding to join. Email groupaupsingles@gmail.com for more information about AUP or to become a member.

SALE

A rummage sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 11 at John McMillan Presbyterian Church, 875 Clifton Road in Bethel Park. Proceeds benefit the Youth Mission Trip to Knoxville this summer. All sales are cash only.

CAMP

The summer Camp Gan Izzy will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 30 to July 1. Ages 4 to 11 can attend the camp which includes Jewish themes, specialty clubs, swimming, weekly trips, sports, science, baking, and crafts. Daily lunch and snacks are included. Limited scholarships are available. Registration at chabadsh.com/cgi For more information email hindy@chabadsh. com or call 412-344-2424.

SR. LUNCH

A luncheon for seniors will be held at 1 p.m. April

21 at Chabad of the South Hills, located at 1701 McFarland Road. “Safe Driving Through the Ages” will be the topic of discussion. Suggested donation is $5. The event is wheelchair accessible. Call 412-278-2658 to RSVP or for more information.

GARDENING

The Giant Oaks Garden Club’s annual plant sale and garden market will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on May 16 at Peters Township Public Library, located at 616 East McMurray Road. The sale will highlight a large variety of hanging baskets, annuals, and quality potted perennial plants selected from members’ gardens. Also featured are container gardens of herbs, vegetables, and annuals. The sale also includes new and lightly used gardening items, decorations, and crafts as well as raffle baskets of gardening items. Club members are also available to assist and answer gardening questions from the public. The event helps fund contributions to many local community groups, including the Peters Township Library, Phipps Conservatory, Western PA Conservancy, Peters Township Meals on Wheels, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, the National Aviary, and many more. The club also awards $1,500 scholarships to local graduating seniors planning a course of study in gardening. Call 724-809-3397 or email bjnerone@hky.com for further information.

GIANT OAKS

The Giant Oaks Garden Club will meet April 2 at St. David’s Episcopal Church located at 905 McMurray Road. Lunch and meeting will be held at 11:15 a.m. Lauren Henschel from Wildlife Works will speak at 1 p.m. The company is dedicated to rehabilitation and release of distressed wildlife. Henschel will introduce her program, accompanied by a few animals and items for sale.

The luncheon fee is $6 for guests. Guests need to register by calling 412-760-4221.

ESTATESALE VENETIA(15367)

TREMENDOUS2DAYSALE!!

SATURDAY,APRIL11th,8am-4pm

SUNDAY,APRIL12th,9am-3pm

ContentsInclude: Sofa,Loveseat,GlassCoffeeTable,End Tables,OrnateLamps,OrientalRugs,AntiqueRug,Mirror, FloorLamp,LiveandFauxPlants,Pictures,WallArt,Sango China,SilverplateFlatware,Crystal,Lenox,DuncanMiller, FostoriaPunchBowl,MilkGlass,Sconces,CandleSticks, Platters,Glassware,Figurines,BrassShip,Vases,Lamps, FrenchWhite,Pfalzgraf,Corning,PastaMachine,Deep Fryer,BreadMachine,ElectricSkillet,MCMDresser,Chest ofDrawers,2Nightstands,QueenBed&Bedding,Men’s Clothing&Shoes,Purses,Jewelry,AreaRugs,Antique ChestofDrawers&QueenBed,Afghans,Linens,Vacuums, MassageTable,Candles,Sofa,2ChairsfromHollywoodInteriors,HeywoodWakefieldEndTable,ChinaCabinetand6 CaneBackChairs,Dresser,ChestofDrawers,2Nightstands,WickerChairs,RusticBench,CedarChests,Christmas,WoodenSanta,LionelTrainSet,Thanksgiving,Fall Décor,Halloween,Easter,CraigRecordPlayer,Chests, Trunk,BeautyShopDryer&Chairs,BeautyShopSupplies, BeautyShopSink,BabyBugggy,Child’sRocker,Patterns, TwinBrassBed,ProjectionTV,Trellis,DualRocker,Sofa& Loveseat,KenmoreRefrigerator,G.E.Freezer,Cabinets, WheelBarrow,StepLadder,Blower,Trimmer,Dolly,Power Washer,HandTools,B&DHedgeTrimmer,SmallTool Chest,ShopVac,FileCabinets,GasCans,Werner12’ Ladder,LawnTools,Painting,LargeDogCage,Gardening Pots,andSOMUCHMORE!!DON’TMISSIT!!

Directions: Route19toWaterdamtoSpringdale,Righton Breezewood,RightonCanterwoodto217Canterwood.

POMSKYPUPPIES

Wehave(2)adorableblueeyed pupsreadyfortheirfureverhomes 1male,1femaletheyhavebeen vetchecked,firstshots. $500Call Zeke,412-389-0623(McMurray)

$6,500, will negotiate. Call 386-416-9605

COMPANION MAUSOLEUM Space for 2, includes opening and closing. Notre Dame Mausoleum, Queen of Heaven, McMurray. $18,500 or best offer. 724-350-7941 or 724-416-7975

FOREST LAWN GARDENS 2 spaces in Garden of Devotion, 2 burial vaults, Tier #156-C, Level 3 and 4. Includes transfer fee.

$5,000 obo. 724-267-4858

WASHINGTON CEMETERY Three plots, Section 12.

$2,200 each or best offer. Call for information, 727-831-9920

Rummage Sales

RUMMAGE SALE Sat., April 11 8 to 2 p.m. John McMillan Presbyterian Church 875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park 15102 Housewares, home decor, sporting goods, Seasonal items AND LOTS MORE!!

Allrealestateadvertisementsinthisnewspaperaresubjecttothe FederalFairHousingAct,whichmakesitillegaltoadvertise“any preference,limitationordiscrimi-nationbasedonrace,color,religion, sex,handicap,familialstatusornationalorigin,oranintentionto makeanysuchpreference,limitationordiscrimination.” Statelawsforbiddiscriminationinthesale,rental,oradvertisingof realestatebasedonfactorsinadditiontothoseprotectedunder federallaw.

Wewillnotknowinglyacceptanyadvertisingforrealestatewhichis inviolationofthelaw.Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellingsadvertisedareavailableonanequalopportunitybasis.

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

CHEVROLET

BORTZ CHEVROLET

249 Roy E. Furman Hwy. Waynesburg, PA 15370 724-627-6171 www.bortzchevy.com

SOLOMON CHEVROLET 1777 McClellandtown Rd, McClellandtown, PA 724-602-4678 www.solmonchevy.com SUN CHEVROLET Route 19, McMurray,

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

2605 E Roy Furman Hwy, Carmichaels, PA724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com

SOLOMON JEEP Rt. 40 & 43, Brownsville, PA 724-785-8000 www.solomonauto.com

SOUTH HILLS JEEP 3344 Washington Rd, McMurray, PA 15317 724-941-4300 www.southhillsauto.com

KIA SOUTH HILLS KIA 3644 Washington Rd, McMurray, PA 15317 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 2605 E Roy Furman Hwy, Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com

SOLOMON RAM Routes 40 & 43 Brownsville, PA 724-785-8000 www.solomonauto.com

SOUTH HILLS RAM 3344 Washington Rd, McMurray, PA 15317 724-941-4300 www.southhillsauto.com

SUBARU

BUDD BAER SUBARU 71 Murtland Avenue, Washington PA 724-222-0700 www.buddbaersubaru.com

TOYOTA

SOUTH HILLS TOYOTA 2403 Washington Road Canonsburg, PA 15317 724-743-1144 www.southhillstoyota.com

VOLKSWAGEN

THREE RIVERS VOLKSWAGEN 3694 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 724-941-6100 www.3riversvw.com

Pre-owned dealers

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