Week in review: The Herald's top stories for the week of March 1, 2021

Here’s a look at The Herald’s top stories for the week of March 1:

• George McBriar steps down at Blawnox VFC

Blawnox fire Chief George McBriar retired after 32 years on the job, saying it was time to relax.

He has been a staple of Lower Valley emergency services since 1975 when he began with the Sharpsburg volunteer fire department.

The highlight of McBriar’s career was founding the Allegheny County Swiftwater/Flood Response Team, he said.

The volunteer group provides rescue services across the county and beyond.

• Fox Chapel Area mulling full-time return for students

Fox Chapel Area School Board is expected to vote March 8 on the full-time return to class for middle school and high school students.

Board members said, if approved, the return would begin March 15. Mitigation strategies will remain in place.

Elementary students returned to full-time, in-person instruction in November.

The district would continue to offer online learning for families who choose that model.

• Pittsburgh Field Club welcomes new golf pro

Rhode Island native Christian Sheehan is the new PGA head golf pro at Pittsburgh Field Club in Fox Chapel.

Situated between Fox Chapel and Squaw Run roads, the golf course is a renowned design of architect Alexander H. Findlay.

Sheehan, 47, comes to the Lower Valley from the Lebanon Country Club near Hershey.

• O’Hara councilwoman Allison Berger will not seek reelection

Allison Berger, an eight-year member of O’Hara council, said she will not seek reelection when her term expires in December.

That leaves an open race for her seat in the Fourth Ward.

Berger cited time management and personal reasons for her decision.

She said serving the township has been rewarding because of the contributions to the quality of life in O’Hara, and the opportunity to work with and learn from members of council, staff and the public.