The Almanac - Jan. 18, 2026

the almanac

NEUMAN SWORN-IN

Won election to statewide appellate court in November

By Mike Jones mjones@obeserver-reporter.com

Surrounded by his family, several fellow Washington County judges and other dignitaries, Brandon Neuman told those attending his installation ceremony to become a state Superior Court judge that the most important aspect of the courts is people.

“It is truly about the individual (involved) in that case,” Neuman said. “Every case has a person behind it.”

Neuman was sworn-in Jan. 7 at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh and will now take his seat for a 10-year term on the Superior Court, where he and 14 other judges will listen to appellate

cases from across the state.

Neuman, a North Strabane Township resident who has served on the Court of Common Pleas since 2018 and was a state legislator before that, is the first judge from Washington County to be elected to an appellate court.

He said some thought it was a wild idea running for the statewide seat, but he cruised through an uncontested Democratic primary and then easily defeated Republican challenger Maria Battista and another independent candidate in the November general election.

Neuman joked about a possible early campaign slogan, at first asking his election staff if “Let’s Go Brandon!” could be

COURTESY OF JOE PISZCZOR

Newly installed state Superior Court Judge Brandon Neuman addresses the crowd while members of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court listen in the background during his induction ceremony at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh.

a good line, citing the derogatory phrase some Republicans used for former president Joe Biden that was derived from a misunderstood chant by fans when NASCAR driver Brandon Brown won an Xfinity Series race at Talladega in 2021.

“Merchandise was 75% off,” Neuman said, bringing a laugh to the room before turning serious. “Then you get back to basics. What do people expect of a judge?”

He said he spent the last few years looking through the “lens” of a judge trying to be impartial and fair to those who came before him in the Washington County Courthouse. Before that, the Democrat said he learned to go beyond party politics while a legislator in the state House for several years, especially during contentious debates with political opponents in the Republican Party.

“People will always come first, and the outcome should

always be justice for the people,” Neuman said.

Former state representative Pam Snyder, who was a Democratic colleague of Neuman’s in the House, called the judge a “dear friend” and said he was the same behind closed doors as he is out in public.

“Brandon is the same person in chambers as he was in the committee room,” Snyder said. “The same person with his family and his friends.”

Snyder also lauded his ability to work with others, both in his own caucus and the other party, which she said helped him hone his abilities to listen to all sides while sitting on the bench.

“Brandon wasn’t the loudest voice in the room,” Snyder said. “He was the most prepared, the most thoughtful and the most committed. … He didn’t chase the credit. He chased what was right.”

Neuman thanked his fellow judges in the Washington

County Courthouse, some of whom attended the installation Wednesday night. He also lauded other public officials and recalled how the experience of working as an intern in then-state representative Tim Solobay’s office in the early 2000s impacted him as a young man.

“They taught me what public service is all about. It’s all about people,” Neuman said.

“Thank you to my family in Washington County.”

He then pivoted to his own family, thanking his wife, Carrie, and their four children for their patience and support throughout the campaign.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without you,” he said.

While Neuman is the first judge from Washington County to win a seat on an appellate court, he’s not the first to sit on the Superior Court, since former judge Richard DiSalle was appointed to a seat on that appellate court by

then-Gov. Dick Thornburgh in 1980. Before his speech, Neuman was sworn-in by Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Todd. He will be able to continue living in North Strabane and can have his chambers in Washington County, although the location where he’ll work is still being decided. Neuman’s exit from the Court of Common Pleas bench now leaves two vacant seats in the Washington County Courthouse after former president judge Gary Gilman, who attended the induction ceremony, retired in July. A visiting senior judge will likely help with some court matters, although it’s unclear if Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro will nominate judges to fill the vacancies with approval from the Republican-controlled state Senate.

Keep warm amid rising utility costs

By Jon Andreassi jandreassi@observer-reporter.com

By Jon Andreassi

jandreassi@observer-reporter.com

For a Jefferson Hills woman, blood donations have been a life saver since she received a cancer diagnosis in August 2024. Her first and last names are both Rose, and she was working with children with special needs as a paraprofessional at Borland Manor Elementary School in North Strabane Township when a student jumped on her back. She experienced severe pain, and went to the emergency room. That led to Rose being diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which is a cancer of the bone marrow. She has since gone through chemotherapy, a stem cell transplant and has required more than 40 blood and platelet transfusions.

“I was needing transfusions every week,” Rose said. Rose has been working with Vitalant to encourage people to become blood donors. She had donated in the past, but never considered how those donations could help someone in her current situation.

“You think of the obvious. Surgeries that didn’t go well, emergency situations. Never did I think about cancer patients,” Rose said. January is National Blood Donor Month. Those who donate blood, platelets or plasma between Jan. 5 and Feb. 8 will be entered to win one of 26 $500 gift cards for Vitalant’s donor rewards store.

Maya Santana, communications manager for Vitalant,

DONOR PAGE A2

This winter has seen more people seeking assistance with home heating as energy costs continue to climb.

The Dollar Energy Fund was founded in Western Pennsylvania and provides grants to those experiencing hardship. Jody Robertson, the director of communications for the nonprofit, said requests have steadily increased over the years, but last year even more so.

“We’re seeing definitely a more significant increase than normal,” Robertson said.

The program runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30. In 2025, Robertson said the organization helped 20,000 Pennsylvania households compared to 15,000 the year prior.

From October to December, 250 Washington County homes received grants, a jump from 77 during the same time

Regular replacement of furnace filters is one way to

a home more efficiently.

frame in 2024. In Fayette County, the number jumped from 50 to 200. The Dollar Energy Fund does not typically assist as many Greene County homes, but has given out 29 grants this year compared to four in 2024.

“We’ve provided grants to over 6,000 households already. We’re on track to maintain the higher grant amount, if not exceed that,” Robertson said.

The National Energy Assis-

tance Directors’ Association, which represents state governments in securing federal funding, published a report last month that states heating costs are expected to rise 9.2% this winter.

According to NEADA, on average households will spend $995 this year to heat their homes, an increase of $84 over 2024.

Robertson says Dollar Energy Fund does not ask grant recipients about their specific

situation. She could only speculate as to why there was such a sharp increase in grants this year, but did note that due to the government shutdown, money for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance program (LIHEAP) was delayed.

“That could be a contributing factor,” Robertson said.

Christine Bell, the director of the Salvation Army in Uniontown, said the LIHEAP delay “definitely” affected how many people were reaching out to their organization for help.

“The increase in cost of energy, absolutely. We’ve also seen the LIHEAP delay in funding. That definitely had an effect on things,” Bell said. Bell could not provide exact figures, but said the increase in assistance requests was significant.

“There was definitely three or four times as many as we saw last year,” Bell said.

Upper St. Clair teacher preserves school’s story

George writes book on Eisenhower Elementary

For more than six decades, Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary School has been a cornerstone of the Upper St. Clair community. It is a place where generations of students began their educational journey. Now, its history has been preserved in a new book written by Eisenhower fourth-grade teacher Christopher George.

George is the author of “Revolution to Renovation: Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary

Donor

praised Rose for her willingness to share her experience.

School,” a detailed history that traces the school’s roots from the early settlement of the surrounding land through its opening in 1959 and its transformation in the 21st century.

After more than 20 years of teaching at Eisenhower, George says the school and its staff have become like “old friends.”

“We spend so many hours working, laughing, and crying together – you become

like family to one another,” he said. “It’s the connection in the present that made me curious to learn what teaching was like for my Eisenhower ‘ancestors going back through the decades to 1959.”

Throughout the book, George shares memories from the people who helped shape Eisenhower’s identity, including longtime head secretary Kathy Robinson, who served the school for more than 30 years.

hower’s history,” he said. “It has also been fascinating to learn about and understand how the decision to build Eisenhower Elementary is a story unto itself that connects to the deeper history of the township.”

“You are saving a life, which is such a blessing,” Rose said.

Anyone interested in donating blood can sign up for a drive by visiting donors. vitalant.org.

“Stories like Rose help personify the act of blood donations,” Santana said. For those who may be considering donating blood but are unsure, Rose urges “don’t be afraid,” and says the process takes about seven minutes from start to finish.

SUBMITTED

Rose has received more than 40 blood and platelet transfusions since being diagnosed with cancer in 2024.

Costs

The Salvation Army provides help through both Dollar Energy Fund grants and its own funds.

Tips to lower costs

For those concerned about rising costs, HVAC specialists point to a number of things you can do to make sure your home is heated efficiently.

Greg Roberts, owner of Pro Comfort Heating and Cooling in Waynesburg, said there is one part of the furnace commonly overlooked by customers.

“I tell everyone, the cheapest maintenance on a furnace is a filter. That’s something a lot of people overlook,” Roberts said.

According to Roberts, if your furnace’s filter is not regularly replaced, “your furnace is going to run much longer.” Roberts suggests when buying a filter, buy them in bulk.

“It’s a little pricey to start. Instead of going out and buying one filter … go out and buy six or a dozen. Have that box of filters sitting there. If it’s on site, you’re thinking about it,” Roberts said.

Brady Benedetti, vice president of Controlled Climate Systems in Canonsburg, says though it can be costly, it is important to make sure your furnace receives routine maintenance.

“If you get routine maintenance done, you can get small things before they become big things,” Benedetti said.

Phil Piggott is a consultant for Heirloom Mechanical, which has a location in Mt. Pleasant and provides services in Fayette County. Piggott says there are several do-it-yourself projects you can take on around the house for efficient heating.

Those include checking around the windows, doors and attic for any spaces that could use caulking, weather stripping or spray foam to keep out cold air.

“You got to look and seal up any air leaks you’ve got. Especially in older homes that were built prior to the building codes that are now in place,” Piggott said.

Piggott also suggests being “really smart and deliberate” about setting the temperature on the thermostat.

“You can save a lot of money by lowering the temperature when you’re away or when you’re sleeping,” he said, cautioning not to set it so low that your pipes freeze.

Though much more expensive upfront, these specialists agree that upgrading an old or outdated furnace is going to save money in the long term.

Roberts said he was at a customer’s home recently with a furnace that was 60 years old.

“Buddy, this thing is running at like 10% efficiency,” Roberts said.

According to Roberts, heat pump units are a “night and day difference” compared to even just 20 years ago.

“On the heat pumps we install, we’re showing a 40% decrease in energy costs,” Roberts said.

“She worked with eight different principals and untold thousands of students and families between the years of 1979-2011 – and she did it with such kindness and grace,” he said. “She recently attended our holiday staff party to chat with old friends and meet some of the newer staff members. Mrs. Robinson definitely belongs on the ‘Mt. Rushmore’ of Eisenhower Elementary.”

The book blends historical research with personal anecdotes, photographs and memories contributed by former students, teachers and administrators from the late 1950s up to the present day.

Inspired by a class project back in 2020, George began his research more than five years ago by exploring local records and district school board minutes. The process has changed how he views the school and the land surrounding it.

“So much history is hiding in plain sight. I was surprised to discover how different the original Eisenhower looked when it opened, the unbelievable Eisen-Baker experience in the early 1980s, the dramatic end to a two-state crime spree in the 1990s, and many other events in Eisen-

Constructed near the end of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s administration, the school opened during a time of national optimism and innovation inspired by the dawn of the space age. The late 1950s was also a time of unprecedented population growth within Upper St. Clair. As the district grew, Eisenhower expanded and continued to evolve with its community. By the early 2000s, the building required significant updates, leading to a major renovation that honored its past while preparing the school for modern learning.

George hopes the book resonates with current families, alumni and community members, serving as both a historical record and a shared point of connection.

“Having attended, taught, or been a parent at Eisenhower makes us all part of one big ongoing family,” he said. “My hope is that anyone who reads the book enjoys a deeper understanding

of the history of the school, the community, and their connection to both.”

He also hopes readers find joy in the memories the book preserves.

“So many interesting and poignant moments have happened at Eisenhower Elementary over the years,” he said. “Maybe it will inspire old friends to reconnect and remember their days of old.”

George also credits the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair – particularly its president, Rachel Carlson, and archivist, Carolyn Jones Friedrich – for their efforts to preserve local history. He encourages others to share photographs and memories with the historical society at eisenhowermemories@

hsusc.org to help continue documenting the story of Eisenhower and the township.

“Eisenhower, the school district, and the township have such a rich history that is meaningfully intertwined and worth understanding and preserving,” he said. “Local history is the best kind of history because it gives you something you can look at or touch, remember, or imagine what life was like for those that were here before us.”

“Revolution to Renovation: Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary School” is available for purchase on Amazon or directly from George by contacting him at cdg123pvi@yahoo.com.

Flu season in full swing

It’s that time of year again when people are stocking up on cough syrup, tissues and orange juice -- otherwise known as “flu season.”

While seasonal influenza (flu) viruses are detected year-round in the United States, flu viruses are most common during the fall and winter months.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with the flu can spread it to others from up to about six feet away. Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk.

The CDC maintains that people with flu are most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. Children and some people with weakened immune systems may pass the virus for longer than seven days.

“Healthy habits can help you avoid the flu,” said Trina Johnson, DO, MBA, System Chief Medical Officer for Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Most importantly it is recommended that members of the community over the age of 6 months get the flu vaccine to help keep themselves and their families safe from the virus.”

In addition to getting vaccinated, Johnson cites seven actions you can take to protect yourself and others from flu and help stop the spread of germs.

• Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are ill. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from contracting the illness. By placing physical distance between yourself and others, you can help lower the risk of spreading a respiratory virus.

“Healthy habits can help you avoid the flu,” said Trina Johnson, DO, MBA, System Chief Medical Officer for Penn Highlands Healthcare.

“Most importantly it is recommended that members of the community over the age of 6 months get the flu vaccine to help keep themselves and their families safe from the virus.”

to return to your normal activities when your symptoms are getting better and you have not had a fever without using a fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours.

• Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Influenza viruses are thought to spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. Wearing a mask is an additional prevention strategy that you can choose to do to further protect yourself and others. When worn by a person with an infection, masks reduce the spread of the virus to others. Masks can also protect wearers from breathing in infectious particles from people around them.

from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth which is commonly referred to as the “T” zone. Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

• Take steps for cleaner air. You can improve air quality by bringing in fresh outside air, purifying indoor air or gathering outdoors. Cleaner air can reduce the risk of exposure to viruses.

• Practice healthy habits. Cleaning countertops, handrails and doorknobs regularly can help prevent the spread of some illnesses. Also, get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

By following these tips, it may lessen your chances of contracting flu, however, it is wise to know the primary symptoms which may include:

• Sudden fever

• Chills

• Body aches

• Headache

• Sore throat

• Cough

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Fatigue

If you experience these symptoms, you may want to seek medical care.

Penn Highlands Healthcare offers QCare walk-in clinics throughout Pennsylvania. QCare is ideal for minor injuries and illnesses. Staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants, QCare walk-in clinics are a great option when your primary care office is closed or you cannot get an appointment as quickly as you would like.

Visit phhealthcare.org/service/ walk-in-care for more information. Countryside

• Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are ill. It is safe

• Practice hand hygiene. Washing your hands often will help protect you

Upper St. Clair kindergarten registration begins Feb. 2

Online kindergarten registration for the 2026-27 school year in the Upper St. Clair School District begins Feb. 2.

Students must be 5 years of age on or before Sept. 1, 2026, to register. Proof of residency within the Township of Upper St. Clair is required for enrollment.

Upper St. Clair School District operates a half-day kindergarten program within its three elementary schools –Baker Elementary, Eisenhower Elementary and Streams Elementary. The morning program is from 8:35 to 11:15 a.m., and the afternoon program is from 12:25 to 3:05 p.m. Kindergarten-Plus as well as before and after-school programs are offered at each elementary school through Extended Day Services (EDS). Families needing services are encouraged to contact EDS as soon as possible. When EDS programs reach capacity limits, families may be waitlisted.

As part of the online registration, incoming kindergarten families may elect to apply

for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP), which is offered at Streams Elementary. PYP serves students in kindergarten through grade 4. Due to space limitations, preference is given to students whose home school is Streams and/or those with siblings already enrolled in the program. A wait list is maintained annually. Interested families can apply during the online registration process. Families in the Streams attendance area who do not wish to enroll in PYP may elect to have their child attend Baker Elementary.

Each of the district’s three elementary schools will host a Spring Into Kindergarten event in May, which includes a meet-and-greet with teachers and staff as well as distribution of kindergarten readiness materials. Principals will communicate event details to registered families via email later this spring. To attend, families must be registered for kindergarten no later than May 1.

In addition, incoming kindergarten families will have the opportunity to attend a new family gathering during the summer. Events are planned and communicated by the respective elementary school and/or its parent organization (PTA/PTO).

Kindergarten orientation will be held during the first two days of the new school year. Orientation, which students attend with their parents or caregiver, provides opportunities for incoming kindergarten students to become familiar with their new classrooms and teachers. Each family will sign up for a designated time-slot within the two-day orientation. During this scheduled time, students will complete a variety of readiness screenings and activities.

Questions may be directed to the respective elementary principal or Terri Lott, registration coordinator, at 412833-1600, ext. 2283, or via email tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Bradford House seeks students for annual poster contest

The Bradford House Historical Association is holding its annual Student History Poster Contest for intermediate/middle school and high school students. The contest is open to all middle school students (grades 5 to 8) and high school students (9 to 12), including those enrolled in public, parochial, cyber and home-school programs. Eligible students must reside in Washington, Fayette, Greene, Allegheny or Westmoreland counties. Students are asked to re-

search a topic of Western Pennsylvania history between 1750 and 1850.

Students also may register by mail by submitting a completed poster registration form to Bradford House, PO Box 537, Washington, PA 15301, or by emailing the form to education@bradfordhouse.org. Completed posters must be delivered in March to the association meeting house, 182 S. Main St., in Washington. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three entries in each division: first place, $75,

second place, $50, and third place, $25.

In honor of America250, there will be a special $50 prize awarded for the project that best presents a topic related to the nation’s founding.

Online registration is open until Feb. 28. For more information, registration forms, and complete contest rules, visit the Bradford House Historical Association online or contact education@bradfordhouse.org.

Please Help Oscar

Oscar, a hound, and a companion dog were abandoned on a mountain in West Virginia. When rescuers found them, Oscar was crying over the body of his companion. It is likely that he had been shot or run over by a vehicle. The rescuers did not have the resources to save Oscar. The best that they could do was to provide some food and a garbage can for shelter. Angel Ridge Animal Rescue learned of Oscar’s plight and brought him to our Rescue.

Oscar has a serious injury to his carpal joint on his left front leg and it must be surgically fused. This is a complicated surgery, but it is necessary for Oscar to live a relatively pain-free life and be able to run again. The surgery will be performed at OSU at a cost of $7,000. Please help us to pay Oscar’s surgery bill. He is a loving dog and his life matters to us!

Send your tax-deductible donation to:

Angel Ridge Animal Rescue, PO Box 94, Meadowlands, PA 15347

Name Phone

Address

Amount

You can also donate through PayPal at aranres@yahoo.com

Notable threats to long-term hearing

Hearing is easily taken for granted. Many people never experience issues with their hearing until it begins to decline in their golden years. But no one is immune to hearing loss, and estimates indicate it could be come a significant issue over the next quarter century.

A 2025 report from the World Health Organization noted that nearly 2.5 billion people are projected to have some type of hearing loss by 2050, with more than 700 million requiring hearing rehabilitation. Perhaps the most troubling part of the WHO forecast is that more than one billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss. Though such projections are disconcerting, people are not helpless against hearing loss. In fact, recognition of various threats to long-term hearing can be a great first step toward protecting against hearing loss.

Recreational activities

When engaging in recreational activities, itÕs easy to forget cautionary measures, including the need to protect one’s hearing. But that can lead to irreparable hearing loss. Various recreational activities pose a threat to long-term hearing if the right safety measures are not taken before engaging in them. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders notes the following activities can threaten hearing if the proper safety precautions are not taken:

• Target shooting

• Hunting

• Snowmobile riding

• Listening to music on high volume through earbuds and headphones

• Playing in a band

• Attending loud concerts

Around the house

It’s also easy to encounter harmful noises around the home, and even brief or sporadic exposure to such

noises can pose a threat to long-term hearing. The NIDCD reports that some common noises around a home that pose a threat to hearing include:

• Lawnmowers

• Leaf blowers

• Power tools

Avoiding hearing loss

One potential motivator in relation to hearing loss prevention is recognition of the average decibel levels of everyday sounds compared to the decibel levels of less common noises. For example, listening to music through headphones at maximum volume can be as high as 110 A-weighted decibels (dBA), which is just 30 decibels lower than some fireworks shows and roughly the same as police sirens. The NIDCD also notes that an individual’s distance from the sound and the length of time they’re exposed to the sound are important variables to consider when trying to avoid hearing loss. The further away from a loud noise and the less a person is exposed to loud noises can protect hearing. Individuals encounter threats to their long-term hearing every day. More information about protecting against hearing loss can be found at nidcd.nih.gov.

Debra SwiftFounder of Swift Audiology

South Fayette eighth-grader to perform at Carnegie Hall

By Paul Paterra ppaterra@observer-reporter.com

An eighth-grade pianist in the South Fayette School District will be displaying her musical talents at Carnegie Hall.

Adalia Mathew,13, was selected as a first prize winner in the 13 to 15 age group for the Golden Classical Music Awards Piano Competition. As part of the achievement, she will perform March 9 in the Winners’ Recital at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

“I was stunned,” she said. “I was pretty nervous about the results. I didn’t think I’d be able to win something so big. I’m really excited to play at Carnegie Hall, but it’s still unbelievable. I think about it a lot and every time I’m shocked.”

Adalia has been playing piano since she was 4, starting because her day-care teacher was showing some of the children

there how to play. She credited a number of her teachers for being instrumental in her success, as well as Lewis Music Studio and acclaimed pianist Yeeha Chiu, who critiqued and refined her techniques in preparation

for the competition. The Golden Classical Music Awards International competition is open to all nationalities and ages in strings, piano, wind and vocal. Each discipline is divided into different age categories: Young Musician (8 and younger), Junior (ages 9-12), Intermediate (13-15), Advanced (16-18) and Senior (no age limit). Applicants submit one to three audio recordings reflecting the classical repertoire of the Baroque, Classical, Contemporary or Romantic period. Adalia submitted Mozart’s Turkish March and Piano Sonata K. 545 and Bach’s Prelude in C Major, which she will perform at Carnegie Hall. Adalia also plays the cello in the South Fayette Middle School Orchestra, as well as the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra.

ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL OFFERING NON-INVASIVE FOCAL ONE’S ROBOTIC HIFU PROCEDURE FOR PROSTATE CANCER

St. Clair Hospital offering Focal One’s Robotic HIFU, a groundbreaking treatment with no surgery, no cutting, no radiation for prostate cancer patients.

PITTSBURGH, PA – St. Clair Hospital now offers Robotic Focal High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) for patients living with prostate cancer. Kevin Bordeau, MD, urologic surgeon with St. Clair Medical Group, recently performed the first HIFU procedure at St. Clair using the advanced Focal One® i platform, making St. Clair the first healthcare system in the Pittsburgh region to offer this technology. HIFU uses high-intensity ultrasound waves precisely focused on cancerous prostate tissue, creating localized heat that destroys targeted cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.

“Catching cancer early provides a wider range of potential treatments—that’s why preventive screening is so important,” said Dr. Bordeau. “This new, image-guided, minimally invasive technique is for patients with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer. I truly believe it represents the future of prostate cancer treatment when the disease can be discovered early.”

In a recent study, Focal One Robotic HIFU proved to have comparable oncological control while offering significantly lower negative impact on functional outcomes when compared to radical prostatectomy. In this large, prospective study of more than 3,000 patients treated across 46 centers, Focal One Robotic HIFU produced better results for men’s urinary continence and erectile function compared to patients who received surgery.

Robotic Focal HIFU ablates only the diseased portion of the prostate. The procedure is performed in a single session under general anesthesia and is non-invasive—requiring no incision or radiation. As a result, the risk of side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction is low, and most patients

experience minimal time away from work or leisure activities.

Patients and caregivers can visit stclair.org to learn more about this innovative prostate cancer treatment option at St. Clair Health.

About St. Clair Health

St. Clair Health is a nationally recognized, integrated health system with more than 2,500 employees and 600 physicians serving 500,000 residents of the region. It encompasses St. Clair Hospital; St. Clair Medical Group—a growing physician multispecialty group; St. Clair Health Foundation; and other related entities. In 2016, St. Clair Health became a member of Mayo Clinic Care Network. As a leader in high value healthcare, it participates with all major insurers. For more information, visit stclair.org.

UPMC Washington expands with UPMC Magee-Womens

By Karen Mansfield kmansfield@observer-reporter.com

Elijah Dowling sported a onesie bearing the sentiment “New Around Here” while his mom, Rhiannon Jackson, held him Jan. 6, one day after he was born at UPMC Magee-Womens in UPMC Washington.

Elijah’s birth wasn’t the only event the hospital celebrated Jan. 6.

UPMC Washington held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark its latest expansion of services with UPMC.

UPMC Magee-Womens in Washington is expanding the presence of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital’s women’s health services,

bringing nationally recognized care closer to home for families in Washington County and surrounding communities.

UPMC Magee-Womens will offer specialized women’s health-care services including enhanced pre- and post-natal care and gynecological oncology services.

The goal is to keep women’s health services close to home, support women and families, and make sure women don’t have to travel to Pittsburgh or other areas to get the care they need.

“When we joined UPMC in June 2024, we made a promise to the community to bring UPMC signature services to Washington and Greene

Annmarie Lyons, vice president of UPMC Magee-Womens Health Service LIne, speaks during the dedication of UPMC Magee-Womens in Washington.

counties, and we’re fulfilling that promise here today,” said Brook Ward, president of UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene. “UPMC is here to grow with Washington and continue to deliver worldclass care closer to home.”

Ward noted UPMC committed to investing $300 million over 10 years into UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene for facility upgrades and program enhancements following their merger in June 2024.

The expansion of women’s health services is part of UPMC’s plan to make UPMC Washington a key regional hub, and the sixth hub of the UPMC system. Its footprint in Washington County also

includes UPMC Children’s, UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

Dr. Mackenzy Radolec, a Peters Township High School graduate who specializes in gynecologic oncology – which focuses on diagnosing and treating cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers –said, “It’s really exciting for me because I can now bring the specialized care that I trained for back to the community I grew up in.

“The same care I provide for patients with gynecological cancers that we give in Oakland, they can now get that same treatment much

closer to home in Washington, so we perform surgery here to manage gynecologic cancers and we work closely with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to administer radiation and chemotherapy, which means that women in this area can have comprehensive cancer care without having to travel to Pittsburgh,” said Radolec. “Not having to travel for treatment makes a big difference for patients, and you couple it with the fact that you’re getting treated by a health-care system that is nationally recognized and is known for gynecologic care, and that’s great.”

More specialty services are planned for the future.

Annmarie Lyons, vice president of UPMC Magee-Womens Health Service LIne, said

UPMC Magee-Womens “is a name synonymous with excellence in women’s health, noting the hospital is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the United States for women’s health and is home to one of the country’s largest obstetrics programs, delivering about 10,000 babies a year in the Pittsburgh area.

For Rhiannon Jackson, who delivered Elijah’s big brother, Cole, 4, at the hospital, there was never any doubt about where she would go for maternity care.

“For us to be able to drive down the street and have such a wonderful team, it means more than I can put into words,” said Jackson. “When you’re here, there could be 20 women in this unit, but it feels like you’re the only person they’re focused on.”

If your family has welcomed a little one recently, we’d love to include their photo for free, thanks to St. Clair Health! Photos will be featured in The Almanac and Observer-Reporter newspapers and on our websites on Sunday, January 25. Deadline to submit is Monday, January 19.

Submitted by:

Sponsored by Baby’s name: First Middle Last Block color (Circle one): Pink Blue Birthday: Place of Birth (hospital): Parents:

phone: PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Submit online at www.observer-reporter.com/newarrivals Or fill out the form and mail a photo and self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Observer-Reporter, Attn: New Arrivals, 122 S. Main St., Washington, PA 15301 Questions? E-mail cslota@observer-reporter.com

sports

FEARSOME FOURSOME

Female wrestlers leading Lebo to the top

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

Sophia Beanner recalls a time when it was not fashionable for females to wrestle. For the Mt. Lebanon teenager, it was a mere six or so years ago.

Beanner was a wide-eyed fifth grader interested in the sport because her brother had started wrestling. Her father also wrestled, winning championships at Mount Pleasant High School before competing in college.

Beanner, however, was relegated to a less-than-glamorous position.

“I was always the wrestling dummy,”shesaidwithadeepsigh, Today, Beanner and her teammates have Mt. Lebanon and women’swrestlinginthespotlight. In their third season since the Pennsylvania Interscholastic AthleticAssociation(PIAA)sanctioned thesport,theLadyBlueDevilsrank among one of the top programs in the state. In the WPIAL, they are No. 2 behind defending state champion Canon-McMillan and seven of them are ranked individually in the Top 5 of their weight classes.

The Blue Devils kicked off the 2025-26 season winning the AshtonHyndBattleByTheLakeevent held in Madison, Ohio. They have climbed the ladder in follow-up action,finishingfifthattheWomenof Ironman, fourth at the Beast of the East and third at Powerade before capturing first place in their own tournament.

Lebo racked up a 179 score to finish first in the Blue Devil Winter Wrestling Classic held Jan. 10. Nazareth placed second with 162 points. The Blue Devils placed four

grapplers atop the podium. Isla Silva (11), Camilla Hathaway (155), Beanner (118) and Paige Jox (148) all captured championships while Carly Jox (100), Lillian Perri (106) and Juliana Van Slyke (136) grabbed bronze medals.

“We had a great tournament,” said Lebo head coach Amanda Lebec. “The girls were amazing.”

Just a junior, Beanner has demonstrated remarkable improvement this winter and throughout her career.

As a freshman, she placed sixth in the district and fourth in the regional at 100 pounds. Last year, she finished fifth in the WPIAL at 106. This season, she is 14-7 overall with the highlight so far being a victory by fall in 79 seconds over Nazareth’s Lilly Kuhs in the 118-pound championship bout at the Blue Devil Winter Classic.

“I couldn’t be more proud of Sophia,” Lebec said. “She had a rocky start at the beginning of the season but she put everything together. Thisisthefirsttimeshehaswonthe Blue Devil Classic so it’s exciting for hertogetagoldmedalinherhome gym.”

For Beanner, it all came together; the mental, the physical and the preparation.

“I feel like I wrestled really well,” she said. “All of my hard work that I’ve put in, actually showed up because I usually get a little anxious during tournaments, and then forget all of the hard work and stuff that I’ve done. I feel like I have confidence in my wrestling.”

Lebec agreed that Beanner is putting it all together at the right time as the individual tournament season approaches.

Isla

a

7-2 decision against Moore in the championship bout to win the weight class.

LOT OF JOX

Lebeccouldnotbemorepleased with Paige Jox as a wrestler and as a person.

Devil Winter Classic. “But, she’s moved up to 148 pounds,” noted Lebec.

Lebec sees the difference in Jox and her performances.

“Sophia wrestles her best when she’s thoughtful, and, and when she relies on the technique that she knows,” Lebec said. “She did that against Kuhs. Every single move, she finished well, she was able to find good positions and I just couldn’t be more proud.”

Mt. Lebanon will host both the WPIALchampionshipsonFeb.21 andtheWesternRegionalsonFeb. 28. The PIAA championships are set for March 5-7 at the Giant Center in Hershey.

A senior, Jox is ranked No. 1 in theWPIALandNo.2inthestateat 148. She is approaching entry into the Century Club for 100 career winswithacurrentrecordof92-26. She was 22-5 overall after pinning Elaina Ashby from Trinity in 3:41 to capture her third title in the Blue

As a sophomore, Jox wrestled at 124 and finished second in the WPIAL and fourth in the regional.

As a junior, she dropped to 118 and again earned runner-up honors in the WPIAL. She placed second in the regional.

Moving up weight classes, Jox said, was completely by choice.

“I decided I couldn’t cut weight anymore, and I felt tired. I was slow,”shesaid.“Atfirstitwasscary, but when I’m up here, I’m wrestling the best I’ve ever wrestled.”

To gain weight, Jox did not gorge on ice cream and chocolate. Sheconsumedplentyofprotein.“A lotofsteakandbeefjerky,”shesaid, “but I will never turn down a sweet treat.I’llalwayssayyes,”sheadded.

In addition to a “clean diet” Jox bulkedupadoptingamorestrenuousweight-liftingprogram.During the summer, she lifted two times a day. She continues to lift every day even with her regular practices.

“With the change in diet, I feel I have so much more energy and I’ve been a lot stronger. Weight lifting has contributed to my strength as well. I’m wrestling the best I’ve ever had.”

“She’s stronger,” she agreed. “Paige feels really good about where she is and where she’s wrestling.

“She’s having a lot of fun,” Lebec continued. “This is her senior season and I think she’s just trying to soak everything in. She’s hitting all thespots.Shetrainsreallyhard,but she’s also focussed on what her life will be off the mat.” Jox possesses an effervescent personality. She danced and was a cheerleader before fully committingtowrestling.Mostrecently,she served as a Junior Commissioner in Mt. Lebanon’s municipal government.

“That was a really great experience,”shenoted.“Ithinkit’shelped a lot with my public speaking, first ofall,butalso,I’vemadealotofconnections with higher up people in the Mount Lebanon community.” Althoughsheplansonmajoring inpoliticalscienceatWashington& Jefferson College, Jox has no lofty expectations for pursuing elected office,evenofbeingpresidentofthe UnitedStates.Sheplanstobecome an FBI agent.

Lady Panthers making progress Upper St. Clair back to its winning ways

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

Upper St. Clair wrapped up the first half of Section 2 girls basketball action with a 38-35 win over arch rival Mt. Lebanon on Jan. 12 and looked forward to the start of the second half of action by hosting Canon-McMillan at 7 p.m. Jan. 22 with optimism.

In her first season at the helm, having replaced her husband and his half dozen seniors, four of them starters from last year’s championship club, Suzie McConnell-Serio envisions plenty of improvement for the Lady Panthers. They finished the first round of section action with a 3-2 record and in third place in the section. Overall they were 6-7 with nine games remaining.

McConnell-Serio said she “blamed” her husband, Pete, for USC’s start. He retired after leading the Lady Panthers to their first WPIAL Class 6A title since 2008 and to the PIAA state finals.

“Before the year started, Ryan (Prunzik) was the only player on my entire team with experience,” McConnell-Serio said. “So every game that we have played has been about getting them game experience, which is very valuable. Our players are learning as they go

Ryan Prunzik looks to dish off the ball while leading an Upper St. Clair fastbreak against Mt. Lebanon. The senior point guard tossed in eight points in a 38-35 victory over the Blue

and I think they’re starting to figure things out.”

To date, the Lady Panthers have experienced it all.

“We’ve lost some close games. We’ve had leads and given them away. We missed free throws and almost tried to give it away with a turnover,” said McConnell-Serio of the team’s misfortune.

Mt. Lebanon was a microcosm of the season. The Lady Panthers fell behind, 9-0, at the start but trailed, 15-14, at intermission. They took their first lead, 16-15, two minutes into the third quarter. After widening the margin, they allowed the Blue Devils back into the contest but escaped with the three-point triumph.

“Oh that was tough,” McConnell-Serio sighed. “We make it very difficult on ourselves sometimes.

“Both teams played hard and had their share of runs. This is a big rivalry so it’s no surprise that it came down to the final possession of the game.

“I am just so proud of the way our kids continue to fight.”

Since the start of the 2025-26 season, the Lady Panthers have battled not just their inexperience. They have been plagued by injuries and absences.

Against Lebo, the Lady Panthers played without Anelise Castrodale because she was in California due to a soccer commitment.

Alexa Dumas has missed the entire season due to an injury. Alexis Ingram suffered an injury during a holiday tournament and is in a walking cast.

Plus, Prunzik incurred an injury that contributed to a five-game losing skid. She suffered bone bruises on both sides of herPROlegs and cartilage damage to her knee.

By Eleanor Bailey ebailey@thealmanac.net

Upper St. Clair is at it again. Despite heavy graduation losses from last year’s WPIAL championship club, the Panthers are dominating the hardcourt this winter.

After edging arch rival Mt. Lebanon, 43-36, on Jan. 13, USC improved to 13-1 overall. The Panthers finished the first half of section play with a 6-1 slate and looked to avenge their only loss when they hosted Central Catholic on Jan. 16.

Noting the roster features just two seniors in Jake Foster and Luke Marchinsky, head coach Dan Holzer said that he is thrilled with how the Panthers are playing.

“”We graduated 10 seniors and only have five guys back. So technically we’re one of the youngest teams in 6A. It’s exciting to see them step up. All those new guys were just like talking, ‘okay, now it’s my turn.’ It’s their turn to be part of this program

and keep it going. That’s kind of what they’re doing.”

At the beginning of the year, high school basketball followers were aware of Ryan Robbins, a 6-7 power forward, and Jake Foster, a 3-point artist. Both were key members of USC’s back-to-back WPIAL winners.

“Everybody knows who they are but everybody else kind of makes plays. We have all these guys that have been making plays here and there. I’m really proud of them.”

While Robbins pitched in 10 tallies and dominated the boards and Foster knocked down two, key 3-pointers and finished with eight points against Mt. Lebanon, Holzer indicated that he was most proud of Marchinsky and Finnegan Beggy. They keyed the Panthers as they surged past the Blue Devils, particularly in the game’s final moments. Marchinsky led USC with 11 markers. His 3-point play provided a 40-35 cushion for the

“I’mwrestlingatW&Jbutmymaingoal inthefutureisIwouldlovetobeintheFBI,”

Jox said. “That’s what I want to do when I’m older.”

For now, Jox is relishing in her success on the mats and is looking forward to a strong showing in the postseason tournaments.

“Winning my third time (at the Blue Devil Classic) feels amazing, especially because it was at home and my senior year. To just get that last one feels good.

“I’m super settled on winning a state title though. I have come really close but I feellikeI’mcloserthaneverbecauseIwent up a couple of weight classes and I feel so much better. I’m set on winning WPIALs, regionals and states.” FRESH FACES

ForIslaSilvaandCamillaHathaway,the sightsaresethigher.

Though only freshmen, they are worldclass wrestlers. By age 10, they were national champions. More recently, as teenagers, they are Pan-American champions. They arelookingtoqualifyforthatteamaswellas to compete at Worlds after the regular high school season concludes with the PIAA championshipsinMarch.

“They’re both seasoned wrestlers. They have been all over the place wrestling the bestgirlsinthecountryandsomeofthebest intheworldsotheyhavehighexpectations,” Lebec said. “There’s nothing holding them back from winning WPIAL and state titles and then working their way through the freestyleseason.

“They both have the same mindset of winning and doing everything it takes, workingashardastheypossiblycantowin.”

Silva and Hathaway are the best of friendshavinggrownupinthesameneighborhood. While Hathaway was homes-

Panthers with 38 seconds remaining.

“Luke’s not a newcomer,” Holzer noted of the senior, who did not play last year due to an injury. “He was one of our key players but the poor kid missed the whole year. So nobody really knows about him, but Luke’s a solid player. He came through for us in the end with a big score that was a result of a great pass from Jake (Foster).”

chooled, Silva attended Howe Elementary. Both competed on the same sponsored sportsteamssuchassoftballandbasketball but they yearned to compete in more combativesports.

“I really wanted to play football,” Silva said.

Because her father, Jamie, was a former safetyfortheIndianapolisColts,Silvasaid,“I wantedtobelikehim.”

Theresa Silva, who played volleyball and trackatMt.Lebanon,however,wantedher daughter to do something different, somethinglessdangerous.

“There was a wrestling camp going on,” Silvaexplained.“So,mymomsignedmeup.

“NobodyinCamilla’sfamilyorminewrestled,”Silvaadded.“Sowemadeitourthing.”

BycompetingintheMt.LebanonYouth Wrestling Program and by continuing to honetheirskillsattheSouthHillsWrestling AcademyinBethelPark,thepairhavemade wrestlingtheirown.

Hathawayis23-2overallthiswinter.She is ranked No. 1 in the WPIAL as well as the PIAA.

“Camillahasalwaysshowntremendous heart on the mat,” Lebec said. “She is constantlychasinggoodcompetition.”

After winning the 155-weight class at the prestigious Powerade Tournament, she claimed her first Blue Devil Winter Wrestling Classic title. In 54 seconds, she pinned Makayla Taylor from Clearfield in the155-poundfinal.

Hathaway said winning the Lebo tournamentwas“amazing”althoughshehasto workonsomethings.

“Whileitwasmyfirstyearandbeingable tocompeteinthisitwasgreattowinbecause it’sourhometournament,”Hathawaysaid. “I wrestled some really good girls and really enjoyeditbutIhaveworktodo.I’mtryingto hitmoremovesandworkonmyrepertoire because I’m really hoping to win WPIALs, regionalsandstates,ifIcould.”

BeingconsistentisthekeyforHathaway.

“I just have to keep wrestling the way I

A junior, Beggy scored all four of his points in the fourth frame. His bucket put the Panthers ahead for good, 37-35.

“Finningen’s like a role player for us. A really good JV kid from last year that has stepped for us like all those guys on this team.

“It’s been a total team effort just as it’s been throughout our program,” Holzer added. “It’s that next-player-up knowledge.”

At USC, it’s also an awareness that defense wins championships. In 11 of their victories, they have held opponents to under 50 points. Against Lebo, they held the Blue Devils to 26

do,” she said. “Definitely trying to improve andfinish.MakesurethatI’msharpwithall mymoves.”

Silva hit all her moves in capturing the 112-pound weight class at the Blue Devil WinterClassic.Inthechampionshipmatch, she scored a 7-2 decision against Trinity MoorefromConnellsville.

“Isla really put on a great show,” Lebec said. “She worked really hard on top, like she always does. She’s only a freshman so it’s really awesome to have her winning in herhomegym.That’sreallyexciting.”

Though she has traveled the world, Silva saidthattheWinterClassicwasherfavorite tournament.

“I like being home and I thought (the tournament)wasrunprettywell,”shesaid.

points in the first half and 31 through three quarters.

Liam Sheely, who recently topped the 1,000-point mark for his career, was held to 14 points and only one 3-point field goal.

Carter Gould and Jacob Zaber each finished with eight tallies.

“Without a doubt our halfcourt defense was the difference. We did an amazing job,” Holzer said. “I’m proud of our players’ defense. We switch everything. Nobody guards anybody in particular because we switch all the time.”

While Marchinsky, Beggy and Andrew Gaither have

Her championship match, more or less, wentaccordingtoplan.

“Personally,Ireallywishedweweremore neutral. I was like on top a lot,” she said. “I knew she was gonna reach back, so I tried laying low, but ended up giving a reversal. I didn’t have much of a secret (to success). I wasjustgoingforabarandacradle.”

Now,Silva,whois16-2overallthisseason andrankedNo.1intheWPIAL,islookingto improveuponherstatestatus.Sheisranked No.4at112.

Silva,likeHathaway,arelookingtocomplete a feat often chased by many of their male counterparts. They hope to become that rare four-time district and state champion. There have been 14 four-time PIAA wrestlingwinners.

blended together to form a formidable starting five along with Robbins and Foster, the Panthers have developed a kinship particularly through their recent travels.

The squad, which also includes Jude Ausi, Aidan Chambers, Jacob Cimarolli, Connor Gallagher, Thomas Garces, Braden Lebeau, Luke Rickel, Greyson Sayler, Will Sukernek and Jackson Tweardy, traveled to Florida over the winter holiday break. In the Jacksonville Tournament, the Panthers won all three of their games, beating Fernandina Beach, 64-

“My goal is to win a WPIAL and state title and do really well at Spokane,” she said. “Beingafour-timechampionwouldbecool. Ihavetokeeptrainingreally,reallyhardand trygettingasmuchpracticeasIcan.”

“Definitely,” added Hathaway, “the goal istobeafour-timeWPIALandstatechampion. For sure, I think it’s achievable. I really hopeso.”

Lebec believes it’s a tangible goal for all of theLadyBlueDevils.

“Isla and Camilla both have a great opportunity to compete and be competitive at qualifiers for the world team and all four of our champions plus the other girls that we haveontheteamhavechances,”Lebecsaid. “Everybody’s in contention for making the statetournamentthisyear.”

33, Fletcher, 64-33, and West Nassau, 70-35.

“With such a young team, it was important to develop camaraderie and these guys came together,” said Holzer. “It was a great bonding experience.”

In addition to their games, the team spent time at the beach, and took in a Florida Gators men’s college basketball game against St. Francis, Pa. They also visited the local mall, which Holzer described as “huge” enough that one could walk “a mile or two” in the facility.

Once they returned to more regional competition, the Pan-

thers zeroed in on their expectations. While they are two-time defending district champions, they are focused on the immediate and realistic goal of qualifying for the WPIAL playoffs.

“We haven’t even talked about (a WPIAL title). Technically we are so young,” Holzer reiterated. “We’re just having fun.

“Absolutely,” he replied regarding the question of wanting to repeat as WPIAL champions. “We know we’re capable. We have a chance.”

Progress

“We’ve had a different starting line-up pretty much every game,” McConnell-Serio said. “Every game we never know what our line-up will look like.

“These kids have stepped up. We talk about the next person stepping up and finding a way. We continue to fight, trust each other and believe. We’re getting better and better.”

Prunzik continues to round into the shape that saw her average six points per game and lead the Panthers in assists and steals last season. She also ranked second on the team in rebound despite her 5-foot-4 stature.

“Ryan is the heart and soul of this team,” McConnell-Serio said. “She does a nice job of creating the offense. She’s our playmaker, a scorer, a rebounder and she’s guarding the other team’s point guard. She has her hand in every play that we run. She’s an unbelievable player.

McConnell-Serio continued by defining Prunzik as a “special” player because she elevates the play of every single person on the floor. Plus, she has a fiery spirit.

A two-time all-section performer, Prunzik is attracting attention of colleges from Division I through III. Prunzik’s pick will not be disappointed, predicts McConnell-Serio.

more, Ekaterina (Kat) Polystanko is developing into a player with similar star power. The 6-foot-1 forwardledUSCinscoring against Lebo, tossing in 14 tallies.

“She wants to win. She is competitive and her teammates feed off her. She finds a way to get it done.”

“Whoever gets her at the next level is getting a diamond because she is so special.” Although she is only a sopho-

“She runs the floor like a deer and that’s where a lot of her opportunities come from playing with Ryan in transition,” McConnell-Serio said. “With Ryan at the perimeter and Kat inside, we need that inside-outside presence.

“Kat is still developing. Her game is still growing and we’re working with her. She’s playing 32 minutes a game and doing a great job. She’s not afraid to be on the block and mix it up and as her game advances and she progresses so will her perimeter play because we shoot a lot of threes.” USC has benefited from the play of Caroline Barnard, Kenzie Pop and Claire Birmingham as well as Audrey Brown, Evelynn McDermott and Nadia Vetere.

“I’m excited for the development of our team and the progress that we’re making with each game. We’re getting better,” McConnell-Serio said. “We got a good win against Lebo. It’s a section win, which means everything.

“It’s amazing that we have a month or so left of this season and this is where you talk about starting to play your best basketball. We are just going to continue to take it one game at a time and prepare for every game the same way.”

sights & sounds

‘REVOLUTIONARY THINGS’

State Museum hosting exhibit in celebration of America’s 250TH

State Museum of Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and The State Museum of Pennsylvania are hosting the exhibit “Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection.”

It showcases more than 140 artifacts from the museum’s permanent collections, celebrating Pennsylvania’s pivotal role in the American War for Independence and the centuries of commemoration that followed.

Long considered the birthplace of the nation, Pennsylvania is home to many of the key people, events, and symbols of America’s founding. The new exhibit, located on the first floor of The State Museum in Harrisburg, debuts as the commonwealth begins preparations for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

“As we approach the momentous celebration of America’s semiquincentennial, it is vital to remember that much of the Revolution began and was shaped right here in Pennsylvania,” said Andrea Lowery, executive director of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

“‘Revolutionary Things’ highlights not only the rare objects that witnessed the war firsthand but also the powerful ways later generations of Pennsylvanians have remembered, celebrated, and preserved this crucial history.”

Three centuries of history

The 3,000-square-foot exhibition is divided into three sections: Witness objects and relics This section features objects

what’s happening

CHABAD

The Chabad of the South Hills is offering the following at the location at 1700 Bower Hill Road: Lift Your Life - Rosh Chodesh Society series. Lesson 3-Art of Managing Food and Munching for Meaning will be held at 7 p.m. Jan. 19.

Torah Tot Adventures. This free monthly Jewish story hour and craft planting seeds of Jewish pride for ages 0-5 and siblings will be held from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Jan. 18. Register at chabadsh.com/story

Family Havdalah PJ Party will be held from 6:45 to 7:45

p.m. Jan. 24. Activities include make-your-own havdalah kit, musical havdalah, family game show, s’mores and hot cocoa bar. RSVP to: Chabadsh.com/ havdalah

Mommy & Me celebrating Shabbat from 10:30 to 11:30

a.m. Jan. 23. Ages 0-3 can attend at no charge. Register at Chabadsh.com/mommyandme/.

Family Hamantash Bake will be held at 3 p.m. Feb. 22. This is a sweet, hands-on Purim Adventure for the whole family, sponsored by CKids, Chabad of the South Hills, PJ Library, Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh, and JCC PGH. Register at chabadsh.com/ hamantash

Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa, a sixweek course on the real-life questions Jews asked sages across history, will be held from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. Wednesdays beginning Jan. 21 Visit www.chabadsh.com, email rabbi@chabadsh.com or call 412-512-3046 to regis-

ter or for further information.

A Jewish comedy night, featuring Ami Kozak, will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 15. Address will be provided upon RSVP. Couvert is $54. Early bird pricing is $45 before Jan. 15. Purchase tickets at Chabadsh.com/ comedy/.

SHSSL SIGNUP

Registration is being accepted for the South Hills Senior Softball League. Players 55 and older are eligible.

The league, formed more than three decades ago, attracts more than 150 players each year. Games are typically played at fields in South Park, Pleasant Hills, Baldwin, Brentwood, Bethel Park and Pittsburgh.

One division of the league plays on weekday evenings. Another set of teams plays on weekday mornings. Teams in both divisions normally play twice a week. Tryouts and a draft are held in April. Dates to be announced to registered players later.

Email: SHSSLeague@yahoo. com for information regarding how to register. Forms are due March 30. PT REC

The Peters Township recreation department is offering the following events. Register at www.peterstownhip.com or call 724-942-5000 for details.

Snowflake: Science & Art will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Jan. 29. Ages 6 to 10 will learn about snowflakes in a winter wonderland while making a one-of-a-kind creation. Fee is $5 ($8 nonmembers) and includes supplies and a snack.

Ladies Night from 6:30 to 8

with a documented history of use during the American Revolution in Pennsylvania. These “witness objects,” revered for their direct connection to the era, include rare items such as the flag carried by the 1st Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Army, as well as artifacts illuminating the experiences of everyday Pennsylvanians.

Commemorative art

In the decades following the Revolution, Pennsylvanians turned to paintings and decorative arts to portray people, events, and symbols of the nation’s founding. This section includes a wide array of materials — from depictions of George Washington, Betsy Ross, and the American Eagle to fullscale replicas of the Liberty Bell. A centerpiece is Charles Weisgerber’s monumental 1893 painting, “Birth

of Our Nation’s Flag.”

Centennial and bicentennial anniversaries

This final section explores how Pennsylvania was at the center of two previous major anniversary events: the Centennial Exhibition of 1876 and the American Bicentennial of 1976. On display is an original exhibition display from the sprawling 1876 World’s Fair held in Philadelphia and one of the lead wagons from the 1976 “Wagon Train Pilgrimage to Pennsylvania,” which converged on Valley Forge following a two-year, cross-country journey.

Companion exhibit

In addition to “Revolutionary Things,” the State Museum will also feature “Illuminating Independence” in its Brockerhoff Hall. This display features 35 original

“illuminations” of the Declaration of Independence, meticulously created over ten years by self-taught Harrisburg penman Sherman Notestine. The collection is on loan from Philadelphia architects John Blatteau and Paul Hirshorn.

Both “Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection” and “Illuminating Independence” will be on view through Aug. 2. A series of public programs, lectures, and guided tours associated with these exhibitions will be announced at a later date.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania is one of 23 historic sites and museums administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission as part of the Pennsylvania Trails of History. For more information about The State Museum of Pennsylvania, visit statemuseumpa.org.

p.m. Jan. 21. Participants create rustic burlap heart topiaries. Fee is $10 ($15 nonmembers).

Glow Night will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 6 at the community recreation center located at 700 Meredith Dr. Designed for mothers and sons, the evening features glowing lights, energetic games and interactive activities for ages 12 and under. Pizza and snacks will be provided. Fees are $20 per couple with $10 for each additional child. Nonmember fees are $30 per couple and $15 for each additional child.

Safe Sitter Class from 5 to 8 p.m. Jan. 26 and 27. The first session is held at the recreation center and the second session is held at the Peters Township Fire Station, located at 245 E. McMurray Road. Students in grades six through eight are eligible for this course, which will instruct on safety when home alone watching siblings or while babysitting others. Emergency skills, including CPR, will be taught. Fee is $65 ($97.50 nonmembers).

BOOK SALE

The Church of the Atonement’s annual book and jewelry sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 30 and from 9 a.m. to noon and reopen from 1 to 2 p.m. Jan. 31 at 618 Washington Ave. in Carnegie.

Used books, from bestsellers to children’s stories, puzzles and costume jewelry will be available for purchase along with other miscellaneous items.

Cash only for purchases. Donations will be accepted.

Call 412-279-1944 for more information.

Church services are held at 10 a.m. every Sunday. Coffee hour follows.

BLOOD DRIVES

The following blood drives will be held at:

Venice Presbyterian Church located at 3694 Millers Run Road from noon to 2 p.m. on Jan. 20;

Center Presbyterian Church located at 255 Center Church Road from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 23; Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center in Washington from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 14 and 29;

Penn West University’s Natali Student Center in California from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 29;

Steel City Harley Davidson (upstairs showroom), 1375 Washington Road from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Jan. 31. Visit vitalant.org to make an appointment or call 877-2584825.

FOOD GALA

WOMEN of Southwestern PA Inc., an all-volunteer nonprofit, will hold its 17th Symphony of Food Gala at Bella Sera Event Venue on Friday, Jan. 30. The event’s emcee will be Ashley Dougherty, WTAE-TV meteorologist.

The organization supports women and children in need in Southwestern Pennsylvania, and has donated more than $1.2 million to local nonprofits over the past 25 years.

Tickets and more information are available at www.womenofswpa.org.

PBPS MEETS

Plant Based Pittsburgh South holds its monthly meetings at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at Sunnyhill Church, 1240 Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon.

The Jan. 19 gathering will be a plant-based potluck. Bring a whole food plant-based dish to share along with a printed recipe or recipe link.

Contact naomiherman@msn. com for more information.

SAT PREP

An SAT practice test will be offered at 2 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Peters Township recreation center. Check-in is at 1:30 p.m.

The scores-back workshop will follow at 7 p.m. Jan. 28.

Students gain insight into strengths and identify areas for improvement to guide them through their test prep journey. The program is offered in conjunction with the Hunting Learning Center.

Fee is $145 members ($218 nonmembers).

Call 724-942-2890 or visit HuntingtonHelps.com for more details.

LUNCHEON

A seniors luncheon will be held at 1 p.m. Jan. 14 at the Chabad of the South Hills located at 1701 McFarland Road in Mt. Lebanon. In addition to lunch, tips will be offered for maintaining good posture as one ages. Suggested donation is $5. The event is wheelchair accessible.

Call 412-278-2658 to RSVP or for more information.

CHABAD CAMP

Registration is being accepted

for Camp Gan Izzy and early bird pricing is available until March 15.

The summer Jewish camp experience of fun in the South Hills is offered from July 6 through 17 for ages 5 to 11. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The camp features Jewish themes, swimming, weekly trips, sports, science, baking, and crafts administered by an experienced staff.

Registration at chabadsh.com/ cgi For more details email: hindy@chabadsh.com or call 412-344-2424.

BP MARKET

Winter market hours and dates have been released for the Bethel Park Community Center, located at 5151 Park Ave. Hours are 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays beginning Jan. 20. Other dates are Feb. 3 and 17 as well as March 3, 17 and 31. No-Cook Tuesdays will begin March 3 and run through April 28.

The first day of the summer farmers market will be May 5. Hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and held at the Corrigan Drive parking lot in South Park.

COIN SHOW

The South Hills Coin Club will hold its 66th annual coin show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Crown Plaza Hotel and Suites-Pittsburgh South located at 164 Fort Couch Road. Admission is free as is the parking.

Call 412-854-4022 or email dale827@verizon.net for further details.

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

Apartments for Rent Apartments for Rent

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

Wewillnotknowinglyacceptanyadvertisingforrealestatewhichis inviolationofthelaw.Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellingsadvertisedareavailableonanequalopportunitybasis.

Cemetery Plots

CEMETERY CRYPTS - Two side-by-side 3rd level crypts in Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray. Certificates

CEMETERY

CEMETERY PLOTS (4 plots) Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, located in “Garden of the Virtues”, will subdivide. $2,000 412-221-0956

COMPANION LAWN CRYPT Crypt for 2 at Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray, Devotion section, Lot 117-B. $6,500, will negotiate. Call 386-416-9605 WASHINGTON CEMETERY

Three plots, Section 12. $2,200 each or best offer. Call for information, 727-831-9920

COMEDY - (12) 70’s comics on

cd/cassette Prinze, Newhart, Smothers, Winters, Tomlin, Brooks. $27 obo 412-431-6028

DRYER (GAS) - Maytag Neptune with shoe drying rack included. Excellent. $275 obo. 412-835-2781

Electric Skillet - Bella 12 x 12

NEW multi-functional unit Never used $25 724-267-3080

END TABLES (2) - Pennsylvania House, with drawers. $40. 724-942-4389 Grow Light - Agrobrite

Antiques/Classics

AUDI

AUDI WASHINGTON 453 Racetrack Road,Washington, PA 866-414-9744 www.audiwashington.com

BUICK

BUDD BAER BUICK 83 Murtland Avenue, Washington, PA 724-249-6047 www.buddbaergm.com

SOLOMON BUICK

2605 E Roy Furman Hwy, Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 solomonautogroup.com

CHEVROLET

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

COLUSSY CHEVROLET 3073 Washington Pk. Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-564-9829 www.colussy.com

SOLOMON CHEVROLET 1777 McClellandtown Rd, McClellandtown, PA 724-602-4678 www.solmonchevy.com

SUN CHEVROLET Route 19, McMurray, PA 724-941-5160 www.sunchevy.com

WASHINGTON CHEVROLET

Intersection of Rt. 19, I-79 & I-70, Exit 19A Washington, PA 724-222-2800 www.washingtonchevy.com

CHRYSLER

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

SOLOMON CHRYSLER 2605 E Roy Furman Hwy, Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com

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

DODGE

ROTOLO’S DODGE 58 Route 88, North Charleroi, PA 15022 888-269-6183 www.rotolomotors.com

SOLOMON DODGE 2605 E Roy Furman Hwy, Carmichaels, PA 724-966-2600 www.solomonauto.com

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

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

FIAT

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

FORD

FOX FORD

743 E. High Street, Waynesburg, PA 724-627-3151 www.foxfordwaynesburg.com

SOLOMON FORD Routes 40 & 43 Brownsville, PA 724-785-5500 www.solomonauto.com

STAR LAKE FORD 1212 S. in front of Main St 724-947-3381 www.starlakeford.com

WASHINGTON FORD 507 Washington Road, Rt. 19, Washington, PA 888-706-6128 www.washingtonford.com

GMC

BUDD BAER GMC 83 Murtland Ave. Washington Pa 724-249-6047 www.buddbaergm.com

SOLOMON GMC 1777 McClellandtown Rd, McClellandtown, PA 724-602-4678 solomonautogroup.com

HARLEY DAVIDSON

STEEL CITY HARLEY DAVIDSON 1375 Washington Road, Washington, PA 724-225-7020 www.steelcitymotorcycles.com

HONDA C. HARPER HONDA 106 Harper Drive Belle Vernon, PA 15012 724-929-8000 Ext. 227 Chuck Calcek www.charperhonda.com

WASHINGTON HONDA Rt. 19, Strabane Square Washington, PA 15301 724-222-2213 www.washhonda.com

HYUNDAI

WASHINGTON HYUNDAI

305 WashingtonRd. Rt. 19 at Strabane Square Washington, PA 724-222-2216 www.washhyundai.com

JEEP

ROTOLO’S JEEP 58 Route 88, North Charleroi, PA 15022 888-269-6183 www.rotolomotors.com

SOLOMON JEEP 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

OLIVERIO AUTO 1110 Laurel Hill Road McDonald, PA 15057 724-926-2155 www.oliverioauto.com

PREMIERE AUTO SALES 667 E. Maiden St., Washington, PA 724-223-0600 www.premiereautosales.com

RT. 18 HOMES AUTO SALES 940 Henderson Ave., Washington, PA 724-225-5308 www.18autosales.com

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