TribLIVE's Daily and Weekly email newsletters deliver the news you want and information you need A Greensburg teen pleaded guilty to the armed robbery of a man last year in Hempfield has been in jail since his arrest after being charged as an adult with counts related to what police said was a violent armed robbery on Mt Police said Essway and another teen disarmed a man and Essway held a gun to the victim’s head and punched him about a dozen times before taking his clothes and shoes Essway pleaded guilty Friday to one felony count of armed robbery conspiracy and illegal possession of a firearm Prosecutors dismissed lesser counts of robbery a Westmoreland County judge denied Essway’s attempt to have his case transferred to juvenile court he could not be held in custody beyond his 21st birthday faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced this year by Westmoreland County Common Pleas Judge Tim Krieger Essway will continue to be housed in a juvenile wing at the Lawrence County Prison until he is sentenced Rich Cholodofsky is a TribLive reporter covering Westmoreland County government, politics and courts. He can be reached at rcholodofsky@triblive.com Stay up-to-date on important news from TribLIVE 1-800-909-8742 © 2025 Trib Total Media | All Rights Reserved About Us Advertise Career Opportunities Contact Advertising Contact Circulation Contact Newsroom Contact Us Feedback Request Correction Resource Center Scholarship Opportunities Send Letter to the Editor Send News Tip Subscribe Subscriber Services Blog eFeatures Email Newsletters eTrib Facebook Home Delivery Instagram LinkedIn Marketing Minute Store Locations TribLIVE App - App Store TribLIVE App - Google Play X (formerly Twitter) Arts & Entertainment Best of the Best Business Directory Circulars Contests Coronavirus Lifestyles Local News YaJagOff Obituaries Opinion Our Publications Photos Real Estate Sports Video Weather Cookie Settings Privacy Policy Terms of Service in partnership with the Decatur County Community Foundation announced today the veterans who have been selected to be honored on banners on Veterans Way This initiative honors the service and sacrifice of local veterans across all branches of the armed forces Submissions were selected by total completion of application The project builds upon the successful 2022 Bicentennial Celebration during which the Decatur County Visitors Commission displayed banners recognizing veterans and distinguished community members the new banners will serve as a lasting tribute to those who have served or are currently serving our country “The City of Greensburg is proud to continue honoring our local veterans through the production of these banners,” said Mayor Joshua Marsh “These banners are a visible reminder of the courage and service of the men and women who have defended our nation We’re grateful to the families who shared their stories and to our partners for helping us celebrate these heroes in such a lasting way.” The veterans listed on the banners are as follows: “We were truly moved by the community’s enthusiasm and participation in this project,” said Tami Wenning Executive Director of the Decatur County Community Foundation “Each submission reflects a deep sense of pride and respect for our veterans and it’s an honor to help bring these tributes to life for all to see.” Veterans and residents featured on the 2022 Bicentennial banners can come to City Hall Wednesday Family members or another designated person can come and pick up banners on behalf of the honoree Fever Dominate in Clark’s Homecoming BHS Golf Finishes Second at Trinity Lutheran Invitational Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInWICHITA (KWCH) - May 4 marks the 18th anniversary of the deadly Greensburg tornado The EF-5 tornado tore through the small western Kansas town located in Kiowa County injuring dozens more and destroying 95% of the community The tornado was on the ground for about 65 minutes and traveled more than 28 miles Two other people died as a result of the same storm in Pratt and Stafford counties Bush visited Greensburg five days after the devastating tornado He returned in May 2008 to deliver the commencement speech at the high school’s graduation ceremony A concerted effort was made to rebuild Greensburg With over 1,400 homes and businesses destroyed those who chose to stay and rebuild focused on making the town “green” and more energy efficient All of the town’s electricity is powered by wind energy It is home to the most LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) buildings per capita in the U.S can make it sound like just about anything he or she wants “I love that the organ can be both the loudest and the quietest voice in the room,” said Jacob Gruss a Greensburg native who is a rising star in the world of organ performance He returns to his hometown this month to perform the pieces from his recent senior recital at The Juilliard School in New York City he will play the six recital pieces for the Greensburg American Guild of Organists’ 2025 grant performance at First Presbyterian Church in Greensburg The guild and church co-sponsor the annual concert Gruss is the organ scholar at New York’s Cathedral of St “Every organ is different,” he said but the layout and the sound is always a little different it takes a little learning to figure out each one Gruss’ accolades include a first-place finish in the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra’s Young Artist Competition a win at the American Guild of Organists’ northeast regional competition “Mass of the Immaculate Conception,” which premiered in August in Irwin see Gruss perform César Franck’s “Chorale in A Minor” at the 2024 Albert Schweitzer Organ Festival in Connecticut He’s come a long way since he sat with his piano teacher at Saint Vincent Basilica mesmerized by the sound of its organ being played by Paul Jacobs — with whom he is studying at Juilliard Among the half-dozen recital pieces are Fauré’s “Pie Jesu,” which will feature soprano Katie Wagner and Bach’s “Prelude and Fugue in D Major.” “Bach is always challenging,” said Gruss who will attend Yale in the fall to pursue his master’s degree “It takes a lot of focus and a lot of practice so it’s a sigh of relief to have it early in the program and to get past it.” after mastering the technical aspects of his instrument is interpreting the music he loves to play but I want to bring all of myself to the music and communicate the meaning I feel behind it,” he said “Sometimes I hear a piece of music and think ‘I want to tell that story,’ and that’s how I felt about every piece I chose for the recital.” Patrick Varine is a TribLive reporter covering Delmont, Export and Murrysville. He is a Western Pennsylvania native and joined the Trib in 2010 after working as a reporter and editor with the former Dover Post Co. in Delaware. He can be reached at pvarine@triblive.com About Blue Steele Classical FencingWhen: Saturdays, 10 a.m.Where: St. Clair Park, Robertshaw Amphitheater, GreensburgWho can join: Sessions are open to anyone 18 and older, regardless of experienceFor more information: contact the group's Facebook page It’s not just the agile and quick movements of fencing that draw Tom Huwalt to the centuries-old sport but also the historical preservation aspect of the motions “I’ve been obsessed with history and swords since I was a kid,” said the South Greensburg man William Moore of Hunker also expressed an interest in fencing at a young age but he didn’t pick up the hobby until later in life Clair Park in Greensburg as a way to work on motor skills “I love it from sort of a martial arts perspective,” Moore said “I think it’s just a good way to get out Huwalt and Moore co-founded Blue Steele Classical Fencing a club that meets Saturday mornings in the Robertshaw Amphitheater The sessions are relaxed and open to anyone 18 and older Those who attend typically go through lessons and drills “We start them from the foundations of fencing … then we just build from there,” Huwalt said The sport’s first appearance in the Olympics was in 1896 in Athens, though it had been gaining popularity in Europe for centuries prior, according to the Olympics Competitors must have quick footwork and balance to use a type of sword to hit an opponent in a specific target area on their body The Blue Steele Classical Fencing group focuses on French and British sabre and smallsword sources from the Napoleonic era Club members also have been trying out longswords They have several historical books on hand in order to stay as accurate as possible to the techniques participants practiced moves while holding the swords and worked on hitting an opponent “I really like how these guys do a lot of attention to doing drills,” in addition to the history research Drills may not be as exciting as a duel or sparring but it’s important to learn the basics “That’s the core and foundation,” he said Huwalt and Moore have been pleased by the interest so far The group has been meeting at the park since December “We hope that we can add a few more members this summer and continue to grow and also keep our historical focus,” Moore said Renatta Signorini is a TribLive reporter covering breaking news, crime, courts and Jeannette. She has been working at the Trib since 2005. She can be reached at rsignorini@triblive.com Two men were arraigned Monday in connection with an armed robbery in Southwest Greensburg and an incident during a related search for the suspect in Greensburg Southwest Greensburg police were called around 10:20 p.m Sunday to an Oakland Street apartment where two residents reported a man wearing a ski mask broke in and pointed a handgun at them before taking an e-bike The residents identified the robber as William Owen Altman Greensburg officers learned Altman may be staying at a South Pennsylvania Avenue apartment three other people ran out of the building While police were searching inside the South Pennsylvania Avenue apartment started yelling at officers who were outside with him He appeared intoxicated and was put in the back of a patrol car His bail was set at $50,000 and a May 14 preliminary hearing is set Smetanka is charged with assault of a law enforcement officer and related offenses His bail was set at $25,000 and a May 15 preliminary hearing is set Both men are being held at the Westmoreland County Prison Neither had attorneys listed in online court records Quincey Reese is a TribLive reporter covering the Greensburg and Hempfield areas. She also does reporting for the Penn-Trafford Star. A Penn Township native, she joined the Trib in 2023 after working as a Jim Borden Scholarship intern at the company for two summers. She can be reached at qreese@triblive.com Greenburg Central Catholic’s Eva Denis runs the 400 relay during WCCAs last month Claim to fame: Denis is having a record-breaking season for the Centurions she broke the stadium record in the 100-meter dash and was named combined MVP at the Westmoreland County Coaches Association meet which saw the GCC girls win the 2A title for the fifth straight year finished second in the 200 (25.78) and third in the long jump (17 feet She also ran the anchor leg for the first-place 400 relay Denis helped GCC make the WPIAL 2A playoffs after an undefeated section title she set a school record in the 100 with a time of 11.96 seconds Denis played a key role in GCC’s run to WPIAL and PIAA girls volleyball titles in the fall How does this season align with your expectations My goal was to go under 12 seconds this year (in the 100) and also PR in the 200 What was the key to your success at the WCCA meet my legs felt good and the weather was finally nice What are your target times for the WPIAL individual postseason 18 feet in long jump and a win for my 4-by-1 team What events do you want to run at Delaware but I will likely also be thrown into the 200 What sports did your parents (Lori and BJ) play in high school and college (and where did they basketball and also ran track in high school but neither of them ever played in college Did you lose power at home during Tuesday’s storms What are you most looking forward to about the summer I’m looking forward to going to Nashville and the beach Can you compare the feeling of winning a volleyball championship to winning a track event or meet but it feels more rewarding to win an individual event so I definitely feel more relaxed when playing but it’s just as exciting to win and I have also been told I was good at basketball and soccer living in the city and eventually becoming a stay-at-home mom Where will GCC standout Samir Crosby commit to college for football Claim to Fame: The Ligonier Valley senior pitched a six-inning perfect game Thursday against East Allegheny But Foust considers himself more of a third baseman He is 3-1 with an ERA of 2.85 with 23 strikeouts and three walks in 27 innings I did not know it was a perfect game until my teammates dogpiled me after the final out I’m glad I did not know because I might have been stressed and the rest of the staff has picked it up What other sport do you play at Ligonier Valley I plan to major in cybersecurity analytics Where do you and your teammates head for a snack after a game or practice What is your favorite meal your mom or dad makes Do you have a dream vacation spot you’d like to go to Did you like the Steelers’ first round pick I think they should have drafted another offensive lineman If you were to have lunch with someone famous who would it be and what would you talk about It would be the Philadelphia Eagles’ Saquon Barkley Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Read More... Greensburg run-ruled Batesville 11-1 in girls varsity softball last Thursday Tamara Kay “Tammy” (Armstrong) Cole As Southwestern Pennsylvania faces a significant nursing shortage the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing at Pitt-Greensburg is poised to meet the challenge head-on Pitt-Greensburg is celebrating the graduation of 41 students with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees The milestone marks the program’s largest graduating class and the fifth group of graduates since its inception more than 100 nurses have graduated from Pitt-Greensburg with the prestigious BSN degree and are now contributing to the local health care workforce This year’s graduating nurses will participate in the campus’ second annual pinning ceremony at 5 p.m May 2 and the commencement ceremony at 1 p.m Both events will be held in Chambers Hall Gymnasium “Graduates of the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing at Pitt-Greensburg move into jobs at our area hospitals clinics and care facilities in overwhelming numbers,” said Pitt-Greensburg President Robert Gregerson “Our BSN graduates have received a world-class education in the discipline and are ready on day one to provide excellent patient care We created this outstanding nursing program here in Greensburg in response to one of our region’s most pressing needs and we are proud to help meet the medical workforce needs of our neighboring communities.” Pitt-Greensburg’s nursing program not only equips students with the skills needed for today’s health care environment but also instills a deep commitment to addressing regional health care challenges The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practice advocacy for patients and a dedication to excellence ensures graduates are prepared to make a meaningful impact in the community The pinning ceremony is a tradition that signifies the entry of new nurses into the profession “A pinning ceremony is a symbolic welcoming of newly graduated or soon-to-be graduated nurses into the nursing profession,” explained Amy Shearer assistant professor and director of nursing at Pitt-Greensburg “Many schools of nursing have done away with the pinning ceremony but we believe it is an important tradition to uphold to welcome our new graduates into the profession of nursing We encourage our graduates to wear their pin with pride knowing it represents all they have accomplished and is a reminder of what it means to be a Pitt nurse.” the ceremony will also feature the tradition of the Passing of the Light which symbolizes the transfer of nursing values such as compassion advocacy and a commitment to continuous learning from one generation of nurses to the next The School of Nursing’s Passing of the Light began with the school’s first graduating class in 1943 the light of nursing has been passed to each class during their graduation ceremony IN) – Greensburg High School celebrated the post-secondary choices graduating seniors are making during a special event last Thursday an annual event that recognizes each 12th graders’ plans after they graduate from high school while others put pen to paper to join the workforce Two members of the Class of 2025 signed to join the military Senior Celebration is organized by the Greensburg High School Guidance Counseling Department “It’s a celebration of not only what they plan to do after high school but where they plan to go,” said guidance counselor Kristy Tebbe “We love to celebrate the students and this event is a chance for them to feel good about their accomplishments in high school.” Ivy Tech Community College recognized 43 seniors who will earn the Indiana College Core Former Greensburg police Chief Shawn Denning was sentenced Thursday to 15 months in federal prison in a drug distribution conspiracy case that derailed the military veteran’s career and left the community in shock District Judge Cathy Bissoon called Denning’s actions egregious “You betrayed the duties of a police officer and the public trust,” she said “You should be thankful I’ve not sentenced you to a much longer period of incarceration.” of Delmont looked back at six supporters in the courtroom with him He will remain free on bond until instructed to surrender to begin serving the sentence He also was ordered to spend two years on supervised release after the prison term Denning’s January 2023 arrest at Greensburg City Hall resulted in his resignation from the post he had held for about a year He had been with the department since 2008 and rose through the ranks to become chief He pleaded guilty in April 2024 to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine Denning is accused of communicating with a government informant starting in July 2021 and connecting that person with drug dealers in California to buy cocaine and methamphetamine according to the original complaint filed in January 2023 in federal court in Pittsburgh by the Drug Enforcement Administration The complaint included conversations between Denning and the informant on smartphone apps where Denning is accused of providing contact information for the out-of-state suppliers and a “menu” of their available drugs as well as instructions on how to transmit money to them electronically and the DEA provided the informant with money to place orders The mailed packages that were confiscated contained drugs He wore a light gray suit to court Thursday He admitted his actions were inexcusable but told Bissoon he’s taken steps to better himself since his arrest Denning pointed to post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of his service as a Marine in Iraq as a contributing factor in his actions Defense attorney Steven Townsend pleaded with the judge to keep Denning out of prison pointing out that the ex-cop did not profit from the drugs “He took 100% risk … for no gain Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt asked Bissoon to sentence Denning to a period of incarceration “He should have been working to stop illegal drugs from coming into his community” not bringing them in Bissoon said she balanced Denning’s acceptance of responsibility and lack of a criminal history with the serious nature of the crimes and need for punishment Investigators said Denning helped one of his former subordinates get methamphetamine pills online and then bought some from her once the order arrived of New Kensington was suspended in 2022 and retired the following year She pleaded guilty in May 2024 to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine Denning is awaiting court action in a case filed by Westmoreland County detectives in connection with a backpack containing suspected steroids and psilocybin mushrooms that was missing from the Greensburg police evidence room Brian W. Fisher, 64, of Greensburg, Indiana, passed away at his home on May 1, 2025. He was born on May 1, 1961, in Greensburg, the son of the late John and Willa Mae (Borden) Fisher. Brian spent his life in Greensburg, where he worked various jobs throughout the years, including owning and operating his own landscaping business. He had a deep passion for farming—he loved talking about it, learning about it, and lending a helping hand to local farmers whenever he could. His love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him, and he also enjoyed collecting and talking about guns. He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant sister. He is survived by many cousins and numerous friends who will remember him fondly for his friendly nature, quiet strength, and willingness to help others. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Porter-Oliger-Pearson Funeral Home in Greensburg, Indiana. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., with burial to take place at Union Baptist Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in Brian’s honor. Kenneth “Ken” Gutapfel, 89, Sunman Greenburg Central Catholic’s Eva Denis runs the 400 relay during WCCAs last month. Denis played a key role in GCC’s run to WPIAL and PIAA girls volleyball titles in the fall I’m hoping for below 11.9 in the 100 Did you lose power at home during Tuesday’s storms I’m looking forward to going to Nashville and the beach so I definitely feel more relaxed when playing but it’s just as exciting to win I’m glad I did not know because I might have been stressed Do you have a dream vacation spot you’d like to go to Did you like the Steelers’ first round pick It would be the Philadelphia Eagles’ Saquon Barkley He’s the reason I am a Penn State fan If Javascript is disabled browser, to place orders please visit the page where our photos are available to purchase. Greensburg Central Catholic football coach John Thompson will take over as AD. Thompson will take over as athletic director following the retirement of Dan Mahoney. A Rome, N.Y., native who has been a football coach for more than two decades, mostly at the college level, he is eager to get started. “I am committed to creating a well-rounded athletic program that not only excels on the track, field, court and diamond but also serves as a catalyst for student development and community engagement,” Thompson said in a news release. “I am eager to contribute to this mission by building a robust athletic program that not only supports the school’s academic goals but also fosters a sense of community and pride among students, faculty and alumni.” Thompson played and coached football at Marist and served as defensive coordinator at Sacred Heart, Mercyhurst, Saint Vincent and Gannon. He also coached defensive players at Saint Francis (Pa.) and Marist. Thompson, who works for Spring Cove Container Co., led GCC to an 8-3 record last season, and the Centurions were 8-4 in his first season. They made the WPIAL Class A playoffs both years. “Throughout his career, JT has coached at several small private Catholic institutions,” said Diocese of Greensburg Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dr. Nancy Rottler. “These experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective on the role of athletics in fostering a supportive and faith-based community, and we are delighted with JT taking on this new role at GCC.” Mahoney has been a mainstay at GCC athletic events and in the hallways. He has worked as an administrator, teacher, coach and AD at GCC in a career spanning 42 years. He was AD and football coach from 2012-16. His retirement will be official after this school year. Mt. Pleasant has opened its boys basketball coach position, which could mean the end of Annie Malkowiak’s short tenure with the program. The first woman to coach a boys varsity basketball team in Westmoreland County and the fourth to do so in WPIAL history, Malkowiak’s team went 0-22 last season. She declined comment on the matter for now but said she was encouraged to reapply and plans to. The district coaches work on one-year contracts. The Vikings were 8-13 in her first season and made the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs. The WPIAL will release seedings and brackets for the boys and girls lacrosse playoffs on Thursday. The Franklin Regional girls are the only Westmoreland County team to qualify so far. Latrobe junior libero Gabe Watson was named a Western PA Volleyball Coaches Association Class 3A Player of the Week. If Javascript is disabled browser, to place orders please visit the page where our photos are available to purchase This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page – The Pitt-Greensburg softball team spoiled Senior Day for Penn State Behrend winning 6-3 and 9-1 (6) on Sunday afternoon in Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) action Noteworthy: Jocelyn McNany (Cranberry Township PA/Seneca Valley) set the single-season record for most doubles with 19 in game two We use cookies to ensure you have the best browsing experience on our website. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understood our Privacy Policy & Terms of Service State police have identified an 83-year-old Greensburg woman as being the wrong-way driver who caused a multi-vehicle crash Wednesday on Route 30 in Hempfield Nancy Duva entered the eastbound lanes of the divided highway going west in Subaru Crosstrek around 5:15 p.m. causing the crash just past the Cedar Street exit at a bend in the highway Duva struck a Dodge Ram being driven by Jace Bartsch a Hyundai Elantra being driven by Kassidy Warfel Duva and Bartsch were taken to Forbes Hospital in Monroeville Mutual Aid spokesperson Shawn Penzera said The sight distance for eastbound travelers on that section of Route 30 is difficult “The sight distance is designed for people traveling the speed limit or close to it,” he said “Add a vehicle driving toward you at the same speed … your sight distance is basically cut in half You basically have no chance — it’s almost no chance.” The road was closed for four hours while state police reconstructed the crash About 37,000 vehicles use that stretch of highway daily Traffic was detoured onto Route 119 and various side streets Limani said the highway is so busy at that time of day he is surprised there weren’t more injuries A video recorded by a driver in the westbound lanes and posted on social media showed what appeared to be an SUV driving the wrong direction and slamming into a pickup truck other motorists avoided the collision. Video from Trib news partner WTAE showed a car that appeared to have collided with the pickup In March 2021, AAA and the National Transportation Safety Board warned motorists of an increasing rate of wrong-way crashes resulting in fatalities The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that there were 2,008 deaths from wrong-way crashes on divided highways nationwide between 2015 and 2018 Authorities charged a Charlotte, N.C., man who was eastbound on the westbound side of Interstate 376 near Downtown Pittsburgh on April 13 when he struck an oncoming car, causing a collision that left two people dead And a little over a year ago, a Scottdale woman was arrested and charged with homicide by vehicle after, police said, she was driving the wrong way on Interstate 70 in South Huntingdon, causing a 2022 crash that killed David Ott of Perryopolis This website is unavailable in your location It appears you are attempting to access this website from a country outside of the United States therefore access cannot be granted at this time A Greensburg man will serve up to eight years in prison for two brutal attacks that injured an East Huntingdon woman in 2023 pleaded guilty in two separate cases to multiple felony charges aggravated assault and related offenses that police said occurred several months apart struck a former girlfriend in the back of her head with an unknown object Later that day he chased her into nearby woods and repeatedly hit her in the head and face with a flashlight and put her in a choke hold She later fell over an embankment before she was able to contact her son to take her to a local hospital for treatment During a second incident four months later the woman told police she unexpectedly found Lehneke at her residence when she arrived home on Christmas Day Lehneke no longer lived in the home as a result of the prior incident then repeatedly punched her in the head and strangled her as she fell to the ground a broken orbital bone and a fractured spine in the second assault Westmoreland County Common Pleas Court Judge Scott Mears imposed the terms of the negotiated plea deal that calls for Lehneke Assistant District Attorney Aubri Swank said the woman consented to the plea deal based on the condition Lehneke serve no less than four years in prison Defense attorney Ken Noga said prosecutors threatened to seek a 20-year prison sentence for Lehneke if he was convicted following a trial Lehneke told the judge it was in his best interest to plead guilty “I want to use my time wisely to be a better father to my kids,” Lehneke said From analyzing pond scum to developing new drugs the ability to study the molecular structures of chemical compounds is a must And one way to “see” these tiny structures is with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology both associate professors of chemistry — are thrilled to have the technology on campus and for Pitt-Greensburg students to gain hands-on instrument experience NMR envelopes a sample in a magnetic field the nuclei of the atoms in a molecule move to align to the field The length of time it takes for the nuclei to align gives researchers information about the molecule’s shape and size NMR data builds a picture of the sample molecule The University’s Pittsburgh campus has several high-powered NMR instruments which can give extremely accurate results and typically require liquid nitrogen and helium The new device in Greensburg is a “benchtop model” that can be plugged into a standard outlet with no need for the pricy liquid elements It’s designed to be undergraduate-friendly yet sensitive enough to be used for research on the scale that graduate students work with “The Greensburg campus has not had this type of NMR instrument for some time,” Boothe said when he and his students need to analyze a sample they’ve taken the near hourlong trip to Pittsburgh And though they’ll sometimes still use Pittsburgh’s high-powered instruments for higher-resolution analysis having the benchtop device will save resources and reduce how often he brings students to the city only to find out the quality of their samples isn’t high enough to give useful data “Because we do not have any graduate students or postdocs at our campus this is very much a teaching instrument,” Boothe said “But it’s also something I can use for my research.”   Boothe uses what he refers to as a “pharmaceutical approach” to searching for and desig drugs that can be used to turn microalgae into efficient biofuels if the quality of data that I get from the benchtop model is good enough I can publish those findings,” Boothe said at least I can know whether my samples are pure before I make the trip to Pittsburgh.” Pitt-Greensburg students will pick up skills they can directly apply to further study and in their careers “This is the same model instrument that a lot of pharmaceutical companies are using,” Boothe said And it’s a far cry from his first experience with NMR “I used an old model at my community college that was from the ’70s or ’80s We had to put a tube into a spinner and physically spin it This equipment was funded by a grant from the NSF it is a virtual guarantee that someone will quote Fred Rogers The man behind “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” was known for his lifelong efforts to help children make sense out of what happened around them from how crayons were made to having big feelings Among those efforts was advice he gave to help kids cope with upsetting events “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news You will always find people who are helping,’ ” he wrote in 1983 though he paraphrased this story of his Latrobe childhood on other occasions to know someone would be there in times of need as an unspoken urge to be there in those moments Senate to speak on behalf of public television as then-President Richard Nixon was looking to make broad cuts to federal funding Rogers wasn’t there lobbying for his show He was there in defense of children’s television but he specifically called out for attention to this small niche that could only really be provided by public television “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” had only been a nationally run program for a year unless you had a child the right age to be captivated by a soothing voice and a few puppets But Rogers’ earnest and honest words more than did their job Not only did they almost singlehandedly save the funding —something the subcommittee chair Sen John Pastore openly noted in the hearing —but just a year later Nixon named Rogers the chair of the White House Conference on Children and Youth President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to “cease Federal funding for NPR and PBS.” In addition to pulling funds the order fired allegations at the radio and television broadcasters using words like “bias” and “radical woke propaganda.” that the home of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” could be so denigrated Neither broadcast agency receives all its funding from the government Other funding comes from things like grants from nonprofit organizations and sponsorships by corporations and the well-known “support from viewers like you,” pledged during donation drives there is something else that the federal money represents It is an investment in an education that is what Rogers called it during his testimony: “an expression of care.” It is a way to support our collective neighborhoods change the direction of a budget and the wants of a president determined voice of support for public broadcasting It’s been a whirlwind couple of days for a Greensburg couple who were married Tuesday night — almost as chaotic as the crowd surrounding them during their vows That’s because Chris and Erica Curtis got married in the middle of a mosh pit as death metal legends Cannibal Corpse played at Stage AE in Pittsburgh With singer George “Corpsegrinder” Fisher banging his head as the band played “Unleashing the Bloodthirsty,” a protective circle formed around the pair as they shared their vows Their friend Michael “Doc” Daugherty wrote the nuptials which included “to be your partner in metal honor and love” and “by the power invested in me Corpsegrinder and every crazy mofo in this pit and club.” “I honestly was not expecting more than a quick ‘do you and do you’ from our friend,” the couple told TribLive on Friday via online messaging and our boys rallied to make it happen.” The couple, who have two puppies named Stevie Nicks and Lillian “Lily” Munster, have been together since December 2020. Chris, a retired Air Force veteran and a special effects artist, just started his own mask/prop-making business last year, Brimstone & Cinder SFX specializing in end stage renal disease/dialysis treatments “My sister introduced us,” Erica said ‘You need to meet my sister.’ We talked about two weeks before our first date The wedding, dubbed Corrupted Nuptials as a Facebook event started with a pregame at Shorty’s Pins x Pints we were tired of trying to plan a wedding that ended up being about everything else not to mention the cost,” Erica said “We had thought about the (justice of the peace) and that didn’t quite sit well with us the first thought I had was to say our vows in the pit Cannibal Corpse and Meshuggah … it’s an EPIC lineup Once I mentioned it to him he responded ‘[expletive] yeah.’” The support of their friends who they consider family — they singled out Daugherty Angela Mangione and Michael Honeck — made the unique location possible “Once we had told them what our plan was they did everything they could to make it happen and protect us,” the couple said “They spread the word in the mosh pit and the amount of support we had was crazy not to mention countless social media posts They are all in shock as we are with how this blew up,” the couple said “Our (friends) were the first to send us the articles and videos going around My boss has been supportive and couldn’t believe how fun the mosh pit looked.” Mike Palm is a TribLive digital producer who also writes music reviews and features. A Westmoreland County native, he joined the Trib in 2001, where he spent years on the sports copy desk, including serving as night sports editor. He has been with the multimedia staff since 2013. He can be reached at mpalm@triblive.com Greensburg Salem’s Dom Rosensteel (8) rounds third and scores a run in the fourth inning against Derry on Tuesday. Derry pitcher Max Doherty throws against Greensburg Salem on Tuesday. Greensburg Salem’s Robert Visnick (1) sides into home as Derry catcher Anthony Sacco has the ball tip off his glove Tuesday. Derry’s John Wasnick (5) is tagged out by Greensburg Salem shortstop Tyler Martin after being picked off Tuesday. Derry third baseman Jyaden Trimble tags out Greensburg Salem’s Dom Rosensteel in the first inning tuesday. Greensburg Salem pitcher Braedon Leatherman throws against Derry on Tuesday. Greensburg Salem’s Peyton Chismar rips a triple in the third inning against Derry on Tuesday. Greensburg Salem’s Ayden Crissman rounds third to score a run in the second inning against Derry on Tuesday. The Golden Lions took advantage of seven Derry errors, played flawless defense, got timely hitting and solid pitching in an 8-0 victory in Game 1 of their two-game baseball series. The Trojans (3-4, 4-6) were the opposite. They allowed five unearned runs with sloppy defense and didn’t get clutch hits in the second and sixth innings with runners in scoring position. “We’ve had games that we committed one error. And games like today,” Derry coach Tom Kelly said. “This was one of those games that we did not capitalize on our opportunities. Hopefully, we’ll bounce back on Wednesday.” Derry had runners on second and third with no outs in the second inning. But Greensburg Salem pitcher Braedon Leatherman struck out the next two batters and snagged a line drive off the bat of Liam McMahen to end the threat. Greensburg Salem (4-3, 6-5) did not waste its opportunity in the bottom of the second inning. Ayden Crissman reached on shortstop Cason Long’s error. Crissman swiped second and scored when Logan Dunkerley’s fly to right field was dropped by McMahen for a three-base error. Dunkerley scored on Leatherman’s groundout for a 2-0 lead. “It was a great win for us to get back on track,” Greensburg Salem coach Anthony Manley said. “Last week we faced Indiana and its top-notch pitching staff. “We had a great practice Monday, and the players were very resilient and came out ready to go. It’s high school baseball. The least amount of errors you make and capitalizing on their errors is key to the game. We put the ball in play. Getting out of the top of the second inning was huge.” Greensburg Salem scored in every inning after the first inning. In the third inning, Peyton Chismar tripled, and courtesy runner James Hugus scored on Brody Chismar’s sacrifice fly to make it 3-0. A Derry error in the fourth inning led to two more runs as Dom Rosensteel singled, swiped second and scored on Robert Visnick’s hit. Visnick later scored on a throwing error. “My defense was solid,” Leatherman said. “They made the plays behind me. It was an important win for us.” Crissman tripled to begin the fifth inning and scored on Dunkerley’s groundout to make it 6-0. Derry again had runners on second and third with no outs in the sixth inning. Long hit a screamer that ricocheted off Leatherman’s thigh and was caught for an out by first baseman Dunkerley. Tyler Martin, despite hitting a batter to load the bases, got Collin Barkley to ground out to end the threat. “That’s the fastest ball I’ve ever seen come at me,” Leatherman said. “That was the hardest I have ever been hit. That was crazy.” Greensburg Salem tacked on two more runs in the bottom of the sixth when Visnick reached on an error and scored on Peyton Chismar’s sacrifice fly. Martin, who singled, scored on Brody Chismar’s double. “We’re not satisfied,” Manley said. “This was great to get a win, but you want to come back and do it again (Wednesday). One win is great, but you know we’re in a race and you want to get the next one.” Sewickley Academy’s Lucas Grimsley (4) reacts after making a 3-pointer against Greensburg Central Catholic during the PIAA Class 2A semifinals Saturday at Peters Township. The Sewickley Academy boys basketball team celebrates as time expires on its victory over Greensburg Central Catholic in the PIAA Class 2A semifinals Saturday at Peters Township. Sewickley Academy’s Mamadou Kane (50) hauls in a rebound over Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby (12) and AJ Tarpley (1) during the PIAA Class 2A semifinals Saturday at Peters Township. Sewickley Academy’s Amare Spencer attempts a shot over Greensburg Central Catholic’s AJ Tarpley (1) during the PIAA Class 2A semifinals Saturday at Peters Township. Sewickley Academy’s Mamadou Kane (center) attempts a shot over Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ty Rozier Jr. (left) and AJ Tarpley (right) during the PIAA 2A semifinals on Saturday at Peters Township. Sewickley Academy’s Amare Spencer (3) reacts after a fourth-quarter basket against Greensburg Central Catholic during the PIAA 2A semifinals on Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rourke (22) attempts a shot between Sewickley Academy’s Nolan Donnelly (33) and Isaac Soumare (31) during the PIAA 2A semifinals on Saturday at Peters Township. Sewickley Academy’s Caiden Battles (2) attempts a shot over Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rourke (22) and AJ Tarpley (1) during the PIAA 2A semifinals on Saturday at Peters Township. Sewickley Academy’s Lucas Grimsley (right) looks for space to drive against Greensburg Central Catholic’s Liam Gallagher during the PIAA 2A semifinals on Saturday at Peters Township. The Sewickley Academy boys basketball team celebrates as time expires on its victory over Greensburg Central Catholic in the PIAA 2A semifinals Saturday at Peters Township. A 14-point lead in the first half felt more like 30 as the Centurions pulled ahead of Sewickley Academy with relative ease. Crisp passing led to uncontested layups, and defensive pressure was locked tight. They could almost smell the chocolate in Hershey. But there was one problem: Sewickley Academy wasn’t through. The Panthers leaned on a short memory and halftime adjustments, utilizing their size more effectively and changing the game’s pace to storm back for a 52-48 victory in the PIAA Class 2A boys basketball semifinals Saturday afternoon at Peters Township’s AHN Arena. “We’ve been making defensive plays all year. That’s our calling card,” Panthers first-year coach Mike Iuzzolino said. “I told our guys we’re not going to win this game with offense; we’re going to win it with defense.” Sewickley Academy (24-5) held GCC to 12 points in the second half — six in each quarter — to return to the state finals for the first time since 2017 when they won their last of three state titles. The Panthers rallied in their season, too, after falling flat in a 45-25 loss to WPIAL champion Jeannette in the WPIAL semifinals. A team with only two seniors on the roster is growing up fast. Freshman 6-foot-8 forward Mamadou Kane and junior guard Lucas Grimsley each scored 17 points, with Kane putting up 13 in the second half and Grimsley connecting on five 3-pointers. It will be the Panthers against Linville Hill (23-5) for the title at 2 p.m. Friday at Giant Center in Hershey. GCC, which rode a wave of momentum after an upset loss to Union in the WPIAL quarterfinals, ends the season at 26-4. The Centurions, who were trying to get to the state finals for the first time since 2011, walked off the court with a look of disbelief after a game they led 24-10 was gone from their grasp. “Our game is to get out and go,” GCC coach Christian Hyland said. “In the second half, they pounded it in to the big guy, and we didn’t get many stops. Sewickley really defended and turned it around. It’s not like we can turn it back and say we didn’t do this or that. They beat us.” In the second half, Sewickley Academy turned down the volume on GCC’s transition game and made the Centurions work in halfcourt sets. Grimsley made the game’s biggest play when, with his team leading 49-46, he tapped a long rebound to himself off a missed 3-pointer from sophomore A.J. Tarpley and took it in for a layup for a five-point lead with 20.1 seconds to play. “(Grimsley) kept them in it,” Hyland said. Kane scored six straight early in the third to trim the margin to 38-33. Senior Braden Riley made a jumper with about four minutes remaining in the quarter to put the Centurions ahead by seven. But GCC didn’t make another field goal in the frame while the Panthers chipped away. Kane blocked a shot, and freshman Drew Steals and Grimsley hit back-to-back 3s to close the gap to 40-39 with 3:25 to go in the third. “Grimsley was phenomenal and hit some wide-open shots,” Iuzzolino said. “He also came off of double-teams.” The Panthers’ other 6-8 post man, sophomore Adam Ikamba, tipped in a miss to give the Panthers their first lead at 41-40 with 50 seconds left. “Our guys were ball-watching rather than being disciplined in gaps,” Iuzzolino said. “Kane, since Day 1, has been developing and getting better.” GCC junior Samir Crosby, who had 11 tough points, muscled his way to the rim for consecutive rebounds and beat the third-quarter buzzer to put GCC ahead 42-41. “He’s a gamer,” Hyland said of Crosby. “All of our guys are confident. There was no quit in them today.” In the fourth, the lead changed sides four times in the first four minutes, with Ikamba putting the Panthers ahead to stay with another tip-in for a 47-46 edge. He followed with a block, and Kane scored off a pick-and-roll to make it 49-46 with 4:08 to go. An offensive lull ensued as GCC fouled to conserve time and both teams ran empty sets. The Panthers turned it over with 1:13 left, but Tarpley’s 3 from the wing missed and Grimsley was on his way for the insurance basket. Crosby tipped in a miss with 7.5 seconds left, but it was too late. Kane made a free throw for the final point. After making 13 field goals in the first half, the Centurions managed just six in the second. “I couldn’t be happier for our guys,” Iuzzolino said. “They fought all year long.” GCC looked sprinter-fast in the opening minutes, taking a 19-9 lead after one quarter while opening with a 9-0 run. Senior Brady O’Rourke scored all of his team-high 14 points in the first half, including three 3s, as GCC built a 26-17 advantage at the break. Crosby finished with 11 points, and Tarpley had 10. GCC did not attempt a free throw in the second half. A mistrial was declared Thursday in the case of a Greensburg man charged with providing his nephew with a fatal dose of fentanyl-laced heroin After more than seven hours of deliberations a Westmoreland County jury deadlocked on the most serious of the six charges against Michael Rebosky of Ohio died in October 2021 from an overdose after spending a drug-filled night with his uncle when the two men used cocaine before they shared fentanyl-laced heroin Jurors convicted Michael Rebosky of lesser felony charges of drug delivery possession of cocaine and a misdemeanor count of reckless endangerment It found him not guilty on felony counts of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver and possession of fentanyl Common Pleas Judge Michael Stewart terminated the deliberations after the jury said they were unable to reach a verdict on the most serious charge which carries a potential prison term of up to 20 years in prison Rebosky has been in jail without bond since his arrest in July 2022.The judge ordered he remain in custody pending a sentencing hearing that will be conducted in about three months on the three counts to which he was convicted Prosecutors on Thursday did not say if they will seek to retry Rebosky on the drug delivery resulting in death charge The defense argued there was not enough evidence to convict and suggested prosecutors charged the wrong man Defense lawyer Emily Smarto said police failed to properly investigate Rebosky’s disclosure that he bought the fatal drug dose from an unnamed dealer who operated from a nearby trailer park She also argued that because Rebosky shared the drugs with his nephew he cannot under the existing law be found guilty She said the drug delivery resulting in death law only applies to dealers and not addicts “You can’t be sharing drugs and be guilty of drug delivery resulting in death.” The defense presented no witnesses in its case and Rebosky did not testify Smarto argued initial hospital reports indicated the overdose was caused by a combination of multiple drugs which is a horse tranquilizer that authorities say has become a common additive to fentanyl and heroin Prosecution experts testified the presence of Xylazine in Christopher Rebosky’s blood was erroneously reported in early hospital reports and toxicology conducted by the county coroner found no traces of that drug It determined the fatal overdose was caused by a deadly amount of fentanyl according to police testimony and a video-recorded confession told investigators he bought heroin and shared one bag with his nephew Police said Rebosky initially claimed his nephew supplied the fatal dose but revised to his story after investigators said they found evidence that he bought the drugs Assistant District Attorney Steven Reddy rebutted the defense’s theory of the case and said state law required jurors to convict “The defendant knows that the evidence shows he’s guilty He heard the defense say the defendant suffered enough but he gave his opiate-naive nephew the drugs – The Penn State Behrend men­­'s tennis team was named the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) Co-Regular Season Champions with a pair of wins of Pitt-Greensburg on Sunday morning * The Lions return to action on Tuesday at Nazareth We use cookies to ensure you have the best browsing experience on our website. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understood our Privacy Policy & Terms of Service. Greensburg Salem pitcher Alle Scarpa threw a one-hit shutout with 20 striekouts against Freeport on Monday, April 7, 2025. Greensburg Salem first baseman Cate Waugaman hit a grand slam against Freeport on Monday, April 7, 2025. The 11th batter, Yellowjackets third baseman Addyson Caruso, doubled to left. She stole third to put the tying run closer to home plate with one out in the fourth. But Scarpa struck out sisters Leah and Lauren Clark to end that threat. The Greensburg Salem junior ace was dealing. She faced just two batters over the minimum and struck out a career-best 20. The Golden Lions broke out for five runs in the sixth to all but seal what turned out to be a 6-0 victory. “I liked how relaxed I was even when we were up just one through most of the game,” said Scarpa, who helped Greensburg Salem improve to 6-1 overall, up its section record to 2-1 and bounce back from its only loss so far, a 3-1 setback to section foe Highlands last Wednesday. “I knew I had my defense behind me if I needed them to make a play. I went into the game knowing what spins and what pitches were working for me, and I just kept nailing them. “I was really proud of our hitters adjusting to their pitcher. It made me feel more at ease going out there in the sixth and seventh. We had a cushion there, but we still wanted to finish the game off strong. And we did that.” Scarpa went high and too tight against Freeport second baseman Kelly Schmidt with one out in the bottom of the fifth. Schmidt gave the Yellowjackets their second and final runner of the game, and she stole second. But Scarpa struck out shortstop Taelyn Toy and right fielder Arianna Devlin to squash that Freeport rally attempt. The only non-strikeout for the Yellowjackets against Scarpa came in the sixth when Caruso popped out to Golden Lions shortstop Patty Redinger to end the frame. “We approached her like we approach everybody,” said Freeport coach Ron DeJidas, who saw his team drop its fifth straight game and third in the section after a 3-0 start. “We went up there to compete every at-bat. You can tell she’s put a lot of work into it. We had never played them before and hadn’t seen her before today with just moving into the section. She is such a solid pitcher.” Greensburg Salem’s offense was stymied through five innings against Leah Clark as the Freeport sophomore had allowed just two hits while striking out eight. One of the hits was a solo home run from Scarpa with two outs in the top of the first. It looked like that run might be all that would cross the plate for either team. But the Greensburg Salem offense erupted in the sixth. Redinger led off with a bunt single, and center fielder Marley Perrone was hit by a pitch before Scarpa drew a walk to load the bases. Catcher Hannah Olbeter popped up to the infield, but an error allowed Redinger to score and keep the bases loaded. Sophomore first baseman Cate Waugaman then recorded one of the biggest hits of her young career as she smacked a Clark offering over the left-field fence for a grand slam. That hit chased Clark from the game. She finished with five earned runs and eight strikeouts while giving up just four hits and one walk. “We were a little out of rhythm offensively in our last game against Highlands,” Wright said. “We just couldn’t get it going, and I think we panicked a little bit. There was no panic today. Even with what was happening early on, we stuck with it. Alle did what she does through five until we were able to come alive. “Cate just missed one in the fourth when she flew out to center. But that (grand slam), she hit that square, and there was no doubt about it as soon as it left her bat. She has had really good at-bats for us all year with clean-up RBIs.” Ali Smith came on for Freeport and got the final six outs while giving up one hit and one walk. Samantha Reusser had Greensburg Salem’s fourth hit as she singled with two outs in the fifth. But she was stranded at first when Clark struck out Paige Cole to end the inning. The Golden Lions hope to keep it going Wednesday with a home section matchup against Derry (4-1, 2-0). “We’re looking forward to that game,” Wright said. “It is always a battle against them.” Freeport hopes to get back in the win column with section games against Indiana at home Thursday and at Derry on Friday. “All we are doing is trying to get better each game,” DeJidas said. “If we do that, those losses are going to turn into wins. That is our focus. We’re going to be busy later this week. Hopefully the rain stays away.” Greensburg Salem’s Luke Rullo took second in the Class 2A triple jump at the PIAA track championship Saturday, May 25, 2024. Derry’s Sophia Mazzoni wins the girls javelin during the PIAA 2A championships last year. The annual meet is set for Thursday at Latrobe Memorial Stadium beginning with field events at 12:30 p.m. The running preliminaries begin at 1:15 p.m., and the running finals are slated for 4 p.m. This is the 102nd boys championship and 45th girls championship. Among the returning champions is Greensburg Salem junior Luke Rullo. He won the triple jump and long jump in 2024, and he is favored to repeat. Rullo recorded the best triple jump of his career, 45 feet, 7 inches, against Norwin on Tuesday. He also won the long jump with a leap of 21-2. He currently has the longest jump in the WPIAL in Class 3A despite being slowed by a shoulder injury. “Things are starting to come around,” Rullo said. “I have been told to avoid contact sports like football and basketball. I used to run the sprints, but now my focus is on my sand jumps. “In the grand scheme of things, my focus is breaking my personal records and continuing to improve my skills. I need to work on my phases and being mentally focused.” Rullo finished second to East Allegheny grad Lorenzo Fancher in the Class 2A triple jump at states last season. Fancher jumped 45-6 ¾ and Rullo went 44-11. “I am pleased how things are going in the triple jump,” Rullo said. “I am working on things in the long jump. “I still get a little sore. Hopefully, I will recover in time to compete on Thursday. The weather has been rough this season. But it seems like weather is starting to warm up and improve.” Rullo is also excited about the county meet because teammates Kai Brunot and Justice Payne are capable of joining him on the podium. “We did it at the Lady Spartan/Wildcat Invitational,” Rullo said. “I am confidence we will do it again.” Derry senior Sophia Mazzoni looks to become a three-time javelin champion and a four-time placewinner. She recorded the top throw in the state, 160-11, last week at the Butler Invitational. Mazzoni is the returning PIAA and WPIAL Class 2A champion. She is competing in Class 3A this season. Norwin senior Ryan Schiller and senior Nick Puskar also are hoping to become three-time county champions, Schiller in the 110-meter hurdles and Puskar in the pole vault. “It won’t be easy to defend,” Schiller said. “There are a lot of good hurdlers in the county. I love the competition.” Ligonier Valley senior John Jablunovsky won the high jump as a freshman in 2022 and placed second in the event in the past two season. Other returning boys champions are Penn-Trafford senior Jake McGhee, who won the 800 and 1,600, Latrobe senior Adam Piper (100), Greensburg Central Catholic sophomore Jerry Davis (400), Norwin sophomore Tyler Beck (300 hurdles) and Penn-Trafford senior Logan Kerstetter (javelin). The returning girls champions include Greensburg Central Catholic senior Eva Denis (100 and long jump), Norwin senior Melani Schmidt (200 and 400), Franklin Regional sophomore Caroline Shirley (3,200), Greensburg Central Catholic senior Sasha Hoffman (100 hurdles), Hempfield sophomore Madison Altman (300 hurdles), Norwin senior Brandi Brozeski (high jump), Hempfield senior Allison DeMatt (triple jump), Hempfield junior Maddie Tulley (discus) and Hempfield senior Katherine Dolinski (shot put). NEW ALBANY — What do Maddy Shirley and ‘Pistol Pete’ Maravich have in common One is a future Division I post player for Central High School The other was an electric guard who revolutionized basketball in the 1960s and ‘70s But Maravich was the example Greensburg coach Jason Simpson gave in describing his game plan His team had to defend Shirley straight up and not allow anyone else to feel comfortable More: How a school with less than 400 students has one of the best basketball teams in Indiana What the junior forward did on Saturday not only will be remembered but cements a lofty status going into the next season 4 Bears 83-71 in the Class 3A semi-state semifinal Greensburg proved with confidence it is one of the best in Indiana “It’s going to take a team to beat them,” said Central coach David Alexander “I don’t think all of our girls had their best offensive game That’s when your defense needs to be really good.” The Pirates shot 63 percent from the field They went for 52 points in the middle quarters The Pirates led by 22 after three quarters and hit 9 three-pointers Greensburg controlled most of the semifinal with a purposeful pace Even if the Pirates didn’t get a great look immediately Claire Larrison had 16 of her team-high 19 points in the opening half “We needed to punish them with our pace both offensively and defensively,” said Simpson “I have a lot of kids that are wired to score There’s time we need to fight against that natural instinct ‘We’re going to make the right basketball play.’” Greensburg also received an emotional lift from starting point guard Mary Harmon The junior broke her left collarbone on Jan The injury required a plate and multiple screws to be inserted she was cleared to suit up two weeks post-op Harmon hit a three to end the second and third quarters Even one or two-minute spurts was valuable after the Pirates only used five players in the regional “I have no idea how (she is back),” said Simpson “She had it in her mind she was going to play That’s what this team has been able to do this year Different kids stepping up in different moments.” The junior forward broke her own program record with 46 points plus 13 rebounds Greensburg could match her length and size with two Division I players (Larrison and Belmont recruit Leah West) Shirley made 16 field goals and finished 13 of 16 at the free-throw line What she did should cement a specific Junior All-Star distinction this summer It should also place her on a shortlist of Indiana Miss Basketball candidates going into next year Shirley has the SIAC single season record for points at 715 and moved into 12th on the career list Her 46 points are tied for eighth in state tournament history for a single game There seems to be a prevailing adjective to sum her up IHSAA girls basketball: Semistate schedule, scores, complete coverage A different pace would have given Central (23-5) a better chance. So would a more-balanced offensive effort. Mya Skelton had 12 points but needed a higher volume to reach double figures. Avery Kelley had seven and Sophie Jones six. The Bears still point to better execution on defense as the real culprit. “We definitely didn’t play our best in the first half,” said Shirley. “We dug ourselves a hole, and it was hard to come back. It felt like we never got a break. We had a really good year and played a really tough schedule. I’m going to miss our seniors.” Central won its first regional championship and finished one victory shy of the school record. It does return three starters, including one of the best players in Indiana, for a potential return. The Bears would need to find replacements for a hard-working senior class of Skelton, Kelley and Aubrie Durham. Easier said than done after what Central accomplished this winter. “They’ve set the tone for what it should be to wear that jersey,” said Alexander. “Hopefully, the younger girls are taking notice. We lose some speed, athleticism and the ability to guard. We need to have some younger girls dig deep.” Class 4A at Southport: Lawrence North defeated Gibson Southern 69-46 in the second semifinal. The Titans finished with a 21-7 record after advancing to their third straight semistate. Gibson Southern never got in a comfortable position, trailing by double digits after every quarter. Gabby Spink led the Titans with 21 points and Paige Schnaus added 11. No other player had more than six. The senior class never lost a sectional and won the Class 3A state title in 2024. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby (right) pulls the ball away from Jeannette’s Noah Sunder during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s AJ Tarpley guards Jeannette’s Xavier Odorisio-Farrow during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s AJ Tarpley drives on Jeannette’s Noah Sunder during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby drives on Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s AJ Tarpley guards Jeannette’s Markus McGowan during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rouke is called for charging on Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s AJ Tarpley drives against Jeannette during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rouke scores over Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby drives on Jeannette’s Jayce Powell during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. The Jeannette student section cheers on their boys basketball team against Greensburg Central Catholic during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby drives against Jeannette’s Jayce Powell and Xavier Odorisio-Farrow during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s AJ Tarpley with a reverse on Jeannette’s Markus McGowan during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ty Rozier defends on Jeannette’s Xavier Odorisio-Farrow during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s David Wachinski fights for a rebound with Jeannette’s Lonnie Greene during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rouke scores over Jeannette’s Noah Sunder during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rouke defends on Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ty Rozier grabs a rebound over Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rouke fights for a rebound with Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown scores past Greensburg Central Catholic’s Brady O’Rouke during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Ty Rozier pulls down a rebound from Jeannette’s Lonnie Greene during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday at Norwin High School. Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown scores over Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby drives against Jeannette’s Markus McGowan and Jayce Powell during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. Greensburg Central Catholic’s Samir Crosby drives against Jeannette’s Kymon’e Brown during the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals Saturday. “It’s always physical when we play Jeannette. Honestly, I didn’t think I got fouled that hard,” the Greensburg Central Catholic guard said. “We knew this would be a tough one.” Greensburg Central Catholic leaned on defense and free throws to push past its greatest rival, WPIAL champion Jeannette, and win a physical PIAA Class 2A quarterfinal 46-35 before more than 1,500 on Saturday afternoon at Norwin. The Centurions (26-3) advance to play Sewickley Academy (23-5) in next Saturday’s semifinals at a time and location to be announced. It will be GCC’s first state final four appearance since 2014. GCC avenged a 48-46 loss in overtime to Jeannette in last year’s PIAA second round. “We stayed true to who we were,” said GCC coach Christian Hyland, a senior point guard on the ’14 team. “We did a great job on the glass. We talked about being the more physical team.” Crosby returned after the nick to his elbow and finished with a game-high 13 points, and AJ Tarpley fouled out with 12 for GCC, which trailed only briefly in the opening minutes before stretching the lead to double figures for most of the second half. Crosby would rather have taken a hard foul than a fish hook against a team that includes some friends he might cast a line with but not yet. “Like coach Ed (Zimmerlink) said: Someone’s going fishing,” Crosby said. “We’re glad it’s not us.” Crosby made 9 of 11 free throws. GCC was 18 for 31 as a team. “There are a lot of emotions with family here and so many people you know,” said Crosby, who lives in Jeannette. “We had to play as a team and win as a team. This doesn’t make up for the Union loss (in the WPIAL quarterfinals), but it gives us some closure.” GCC held Jeannette (25-3) to single digits in the first three quarters. The Jayhawks were looking for their first semifinal berth since 2008. A tough pill for the Jayhawks to swallow: All three of their losses in this banner season were to Greensburg Central Catholic. The Jayhawks made only 4 of 13 free throws and scored nine points in the first quarter, four in the second and eight in the third. “We didn’t shoot well, we missed some layups and didn’t make our free throws,” Jeannette coach Adrian Batts said. “It was a great atmosphere. I just wish we’d have shot it better. A lot of credit goes to GCC. They played hard and defended well. The way this game was officiated, they let the guys play.” GCC led 10-9 after the first quarter and took a 19-13 edge into halftime. In the third, senior reserve forward Ty Rozier made a layup off an assist from Tarpley to give GCC its first double-digit lead (25-14). “Ty Rozier was huge today,” Hyland said. “We stayed patient in our offense and crashed the glass. Jeannette has a ton of talent and can get to the hoop. We defended pretty well for the second straight game.” Jeannette struggled to string points together, never making a run of more than five points and making only three field goals during an eight-minute mid-game stretch. Kymon’e Brown’s jumper cut it to 27-20 before GCC took a 29-21 lead after three quarters. Tarpley, who was one of the few players to find space driving the lane, scored on a drive to open the fourth, and a more assertive Braden Riley hit a jumper to make it 33-21 early in the fourth. “This was crazy, like a 6A game,” Tarpley said of the crowd. Jayce Powell converted a three-point play for Jeannette, but Tarpley scored the next two baskets, including a baseline drive to push the margin to 37-24 with 3:33 to play. GCC, breaking Jeannette’s full-court press, drew contact and made 8 of 14 free throws in the fourth to stay ahead by double figures. Powell’s 3 cut it to 40-30 with 2:16 remaining, and guard Markus McGowan made a leaning, off-balance 3 to close it to 43-35 with 1:02 left. “It’s tough,” McGowan said. “We wanted to get them back.” Tarpley scored seven in the final quarter. “We worked hard all week on matchups,” Tarpley said. “We thought if we played like we could, we could blow them out. We are confident right now.” Liam Gallagher had eight points for GCC, including two first-quarter 3-pointers. Brady O’Rourke added seven (5 of 6 free throws). “Liam Gallagher is one of the best players in the WPIAL,” Batts said. “If we’re going to hold him to eight points and hold GCC to 46 and lose? That’s tough.” Powell led Jeannette with 10 points, and McGowan and Noah Sunder had eight apiece. Brown finished with seven. GCC is one win away from tying the 2011 team’s program record of 27 wins in a season. Jeannette tied the 2008 team’s school record of 25 wins. Coaches and players refused to hang their heads after the season-ending defeat. “We didn’t lose to somebody that wasn’t better than us,” Batts said. “We would have loved to win a state title. I am so proud of our seniors. “But as we stand here today, on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, and look back, we’re WPIAL champs.” 3-0) will look to extend its unbeaten streak in Section 1-1A when the teams play a rematch Wednesday afternoon at Jeannette “We’ve got some things we’ve got to clean up but we’ll be ready to play,” GCC coach John Boyle said without elaborating on any areas of concern The Centurions banged out 12 hits and took advantage of five Jeannette errors — four during a six-run fourth that established an 11-run lead — while committing two miscues of their own The junior right-hander struck out six and walked two he has good off-speed stuff and he competes Not that Samide encountered much trouble against a Jeannette roster that includes no seniors “We’ll be back at it (Wednesday),” Jeannette coach Marcus Clarkson said “I really love this group of players We’ve got 11 juniors and one sophomore that have been playing together for a while.” and Blase Bugosh had three RBIs as GCC won for the fifth time in a row after opening the season in the Serra Catholic Invitational with a one-run loss to Class 2A Our Lady of the Sacred Heart “I’m expecting we’ll compete for a section championship,” Boyle said Greensburg Central Catholic and Jeannette dropped in classification this season after both competed a year ago in Section 3-2A Their new section in Class A requires a bit more travel “I cannot stand the fact that they put Westmoreland County teams against teams an hour-and-a-half bus ride away,” Boyle said “Westmoreland County has great baseball with enough teams from around here to make up a section I’ve got 17 teenage boys who don’t mind it as much as me I don’t need to be on a bus for that long.” But his beef isn’t intended to spark any drama “It’s not the time we get home that’s the problem it’s the length of the bus rides that’s a bit much,” Boyle said “All those Greene County teams are tough,” Boyle said “We play Jefferson-Morgan (on March 25) and 10-runned them here but we go down there (on March 26) and it’s a 5-2 (victory) but I think we’re good enough that we can compete for a section championship “Carmichaels traditionally has played some great baseball I’m really interested to see how we do against them.” The Centurions and Mighty Mikes are scheduled to play back-to-back games April 14 at GCC and April 15 at Carmichaels West Greene has some really good pitching and Avella (6-0 2-0) is tough and they’re rolling through the section.” including a third-inning triple that led to a run and cut GCC’s lead to 7-2 The Centurions scored two runs in the first and five in the second highlighted by Sean Walker’s two-run double after Jeannette took a 1-0 lead in the first despite a second lopsided loss in four games — the Jayhawks were beaten by Riverview “It’s just a matter of growing together and continuing to play,” he said “We played a decent baseball game today We’ve got to clean it up on defense.” It’s just like Clarkson to turn the page “It doesn’t matter who you’re playing You never take anyone for granted,” he said “Marcus has his guys ready to play all the time and Marcus gets every last ounce out of those guys I like playing them because I like the way Marcus rolls and we’re always going to get a good game.”