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Charming Tudor in Deerfield Manor! High end updates inside & out! Fplc in Mstr BR + FR, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, Gameroom! Jim Walsh 412-833-5405 $242,500
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Lovely 4 BR, 4 BA ranch in Westminister Manor! Beautiful marble floors in kitchen + FR, GR, wine cellar! Norma Bishop 412-833-5405 $269,900
Beautiful Colonial on a beautiful lot! Familyroom fireplace, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, wrap around deck, community pool! Kathy Enick 412-833-8000 $247,900
Quality built multi level Contemporary, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, Familyroom, Gameroom, Livingroom fireplace, beautiful lot! Linda Paolino 412-833-5405 $219,000
Meticulously maintained and decorated 4 BR, 2.5 BA Provincial, FR + GR, screened porch overlooks water garden! Val Scenna 412-833-8000 $214,500
Lovely 2 story Colonial on cul de sac. Ceramic tile entry, Familyroom, den, Gameroom, 5 BR, 2.5 BA, 2 patios! Maria & Joe Lane 412-833-8000 $199,900
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Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Summer 2003
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Summer 2003
• Volume 9
•
Issue 2
Features and Around the Township 8
A Tribute to Dr. William A. Pope, Superintendent of Schools We see him…we know him…we wish him well. See also pages 78, 79 and 80.
10
8
Children and Their Reaction to Terrorism Congressman Tim Murphy discusses how parents can help children cope.
16
Community Day—May 17 There’s something for me; there’s something for you. Come find out what!
70
Day Trip—Back in Time Instead of traveling north, east, south or west, come travel back in time with us.
71
A Law of Love—The New Child Booster Seat Law Amy Kerman discusses proper fit to protect your bundle of joy.
Township 25
Internet Safety Seminar USC Police and Youth Steering Committee help us understand the Internet.
27
Community Development Reminders To help you follow Township Code—here are a few reminders.
34
25
Library Summer Reading Program The benefits of a summer reading program are numerous. Enroll your child now!
38
Preparing for a Domestic Emergency USC Volunteer Fire Department trains for emergency preparedness.
School District 46
Down To Business Jim Render interviews the Business Department of the School District.
48
No Child Left Behind Barb Bolas discusses the federal law affecting all public schools.
49
Reflections Program PTA sponsors a program where creativity is encouraged.
56
Celebrating Mother’s Day Mother-Daughter duos in our District enjoy a common thread.
33
Cover 14
This cover of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine features Dr. William A. Pope, Superintendent of Schools, giving a speech to the High School graduating class of 2002. The words on the cover are from the annual birthday card personally provided and signed by Dr. Pope and sent yearly to every student in the District. The cover is underwritten by Howard Hanna Real Estate Services. Howard Hanna Real Estate agents from the Fort Couch Road office individually acknowledge Dr. Pope on his upcoming retirement—see pages 14 and 15. Cover photography provided by Nancy Barnard. Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
3
Publishers Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager Dr. William A. Pope Superintendent of Schools
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township
and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. The thirty-fourth issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.
Editors Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Paul K. Fox, Managing Editor Cindy Kane, Township Associate Editor Advisory Committee Thomas A. Labanc, School District Representative
School Board Directors
Township Board of Commissioners
Mark G. Trombetta, M.D., President David E. Bluey, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Albert E. Ferrara, Jr. Dina J. Fulmer Jeffrey W. Joyce Clark R. Nicklas Angela B. Petersen William M. Sulkowski, D.M.D.
Frank E. Marsh, President, Ward 5 Robert W. Orchowski, Vice President, Ward 3 Edward S. Long, Ward 1 Gloria S. Smith, Ward 2 Cheryl S. Bayne, Ward 4 Bill Bates, At Large Ernest T. Harris, At Large
Dina J. Fulmer, School Board Director
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District and community magazine.
Mark Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager
Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image and aesthetic standards of the magazine.
Vince Yevins, Accounts
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses
Staff Nancy Barnard, photographer Lynn Dempsey, advertising John Kotzuk, volunteer writer Jim Meston, volunteer writer Samantha Reefer, intern Jim Render, writer Cathie Scudiero, advertising and office manager
in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and the Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-831-9000. The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Fall 2003 issue and will be published in August. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code to our address listed to the left.
Deadline for Articles and Advertising for our Fall 2003 Issue is June 5, 2003.
The thirty-fourth issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint
publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair.
Article Information
Linda Dudzinski 412-833-1600, extension 2681
© Copyright 2003. All rights reserved.
Advertising Information
Lynn Dempsey (email: ldempsey@uscsd.k12.pa.us) Cathie Scudiero (email: cscudiero@uscsd.k12.pa.us) 412-833-1600, extension 2284 or fax 412-851-2592
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 School District: 412-833-1600 Township: 412-831-9000 Printed by Pentagon Printing Corporation 18 West Steuben Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412-922-0422 • Fax: 412-922-2922 4
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Visit our Website:
www.twpusc.org/magazine/index.htm ERRATA—UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, Spring 2003 The phone number for Westminster Nursery School was incorrectly listed as 412-854-2906 on page 82. The correct number is 412-835-2906. We apologize and ask you to make note of this. The law firm of Cohen & Grigsby was incorrectly listed as Cohen & Cohen under our profile information on resident Michael Daniel. Please accept our apologies.
Summer 2003
H E L L o SWIM • GOLF • SKATE AT T H E
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Open every day • Individual & family season swim passes available • Golf all day with a cart for $23 (includes a sleeve of balls) • Learn-to-Skate/Learn-to-Play Hockey Classes PUBLIC SKATING DAILY for times and rates
call the Recreation Center at 412.561.4363 or the Golf Course at 412.561.9761 or visit us online at www.mtlebanon.org
Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Dr. Pope—To a true patron and friend of our program who will be greatly missed.
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The Sweetest Place in Upper St. Clair
1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Douglas A. Watkins
Dr. William A. Pope Because this is my last magazine message before my retirement, I thought it might be appropriate to share a few thoughts and observations, some in my head and others in my heart accumulated over the past three decades. Thankfully, today in 2003, the focus remains on the children exactly as it did when I came here in 1972. It is as it should be for schools are designed and built for children. They bring life and spirit to otherwise routinely unattractive buildings. It must never be forgotten that the children have only one first day of school, one first year as a middle schooler, and one year as a graduating senior from the beautiful new High School. As I reminisce over thirty plus years in the school business, I am reminded of the many wonderful educators who have become some of my best and oldest friends. The students, however, make the memories special and unique. A simple math exercise suggests that more than 20,000 students have attended school in Upper St. Clair during my tenure. To all of them, “thank you” for making my days memorable and fulfilling. Your honors, achievements and successes have cast such a strong light on this School District that even the shadow enhances my reputation. Although it is time for me to say “good bye,” it is impossible to forget the many people both youthful and not so youthful who have become a part of “who I am” at this very special School District. This has seldom been just a job for me. My wife put a quote on the door of our refrigerator. It is held there by a magnet like all of the other really important pictures, telephone numbers and lottery tickets are. The quote is simple, “If you fall in love with what you do, you never work again.” I fell in love with what I do on November 13, 1972. Since that day I have never really worked again.
Welcome to our 34th edition of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, and our annual “Community Day” issue. What’s planned for our 2003 Community Day “Fun in the Sun” celebration? If you haven’t joined us before—now’s the time! • Attend the many scheduled activities, including a moonwalk sponsored by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair—see page 16. • Visit the many fair booths set up for your enjoyment— see page 17. • Attend the Gilfillan Farm tour—see page 19. • Check out the photo collage on pages 20 and 21. Can you find YOU enjoying a Community Day? On pages 72 and 73 in our magazine’s Spring issue we highlighted the many parks in our Township. Use this handy reference guide to enjoy the parks in our community. Enjoy this summer and all that Upper St. Clair Township has to offer, with its residents who are second to none! In so doing, please support our community day patrons listed on page 17 and our UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY advertisers listed on page 82.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Dr. William A. Pope Superintendent of Schools
Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager
School District of Upper St. Clair 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 http://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 http://www.twpusc.org email: uscadmin@twpusc.org Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
7
Dr. William A. Pope Tribute Doug Watkins, Township Manager, Wishes his Friend the Best I am pleased to be given the opportunity to pay
tribute to our retiring Superintendent of Schools, Dr. William A. Pope. Among many things, Bill is an outstanding educator, a fine father and husband, a kind and gentle man, but to me, a good friend. I first became acquainted with Bill many years ago when he took the job of assistant superintendent of Upper St. Clair School District. We had the opportunity to work on many projects that made a positive impact on all of our residents. During his tenure as superintendent his forward vision allowed us to improve and strengthen the solid working relationship between the Township and School District. His successor has big shoes to fill. I wish Bill, Kim, and their family all the best in his retirement.
A Walk Through Time with Dr. Pope Cathy Luke Dr. William A. Pope has distinguished
himself as a remarkable educator not only in Upper St. Clair, but also regionally and nationally. His influence is both vivid and subtle, and for this reason it is almost impossible to chronicle Dr. Pope’s career without attempting to describe some of his unique personal characteristics. He is visionary, inspiring, energizing, dedicated, caring, and intellectually stimulating. His focus is clear—all decisions and actions are weighed in consideration of what is best for the boys and girls as they develop into young men and women during their 13 years in school. Whether speaking with an auditorium of staff members, a stadium of community residents, the board of school directors, a parent with a troubled student, a group of first grade students, a struggling adolescent or an administrator weighing alternatives, Dr. Pope’s perspective is passionate in seeking ways to help each child be happy and successful. Bill’s success is clearly connected with his focus on students as our first priority. Dr. Pope will retire on June 30 from his position of Superintendent of Schools. This is a post that he has successfully held for the past 14 years, making him the longest serving superintendent in Upper St. Clair’s 40-year history. This is particularly laudable longevity when you consider that today’s climate in school leadership is marked by one-term superintendents, nationwide. Because Upper St. Clair is a community that values and supports 8
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
May all the generous kindness you have given throughout your years return to you.
education, it might be concluded that the challenges are few for a superintendent here. This is not the case. During Dr. Pope’s years as superintendent, the continued and spiraling success of the District is a direct result of his leadership.
Leadership Changes When Dr. Pope took office, the administrative staff was one that had worked together to build the District for the previous 25 years. As three-fourths of the administrative staff retired, Dr. Pope faced the challenge of recruiting, selecting, recommending for hire and mentoring and supervising new staff members. He has successfully accomplished this and has provided smooth transitions, reorganizing staff when needed to capitalize on strengths in order to provide continued dynamic leadership.
Staff Changes
School Facilities When Dr. Pope took office the only building to be renovated was Fort Couch Middle School. Two schools were identified as being in “poor” condition, and there was overcrowding in four schools. As he leaves office, he can be proud to say that all three elementary schools and the High School are modern facilities that will support the best education for the next several decades. Further, the buildings are technologically ready to support educational models for the future. This was accomplished through countless meetings with changing school boards, Township officials, community and citizen groups and professional construction staff.
Summer 2003
During Dr. Pope’s superintendency, more than 40% of the professional and classified staff retired. He accepted this challenge as one that required his active and personal attention and support. It is routine for a superintendent to interview candidates recommended by staff members and make his recommendation to the board of school directors for hire. Dr. Pope’s involvement in this area exceeded the expected, however. In many cases Dr. Pope became part of the team that observed the prospective candidate teaching a demonstration lesson. His insights were invaluable in the sorting process, and his recommendations to the board were based on first-hand observation. Further, once they were hired, Dr. Pope personally observed the new teachers and met with them prior to their receiving tenure.
Community Support A major challenge during Dr. Pope’s superintendency has been maintaining the confidence of the community in light of rising costs and accountability concerns. Dr. Pope approached this in several ways: • He established Power Breakfasts for community and business leaders, senior citizens and realtors to solicit input and provide them with information regarding the schools; • He personally supported the work of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and worked to establish many partnerships providing additional resources to our District; • He encouraged the establishment of the PTA Council, actively recognizing the important role parents play in support of the schools; • He invited broad-based involvement of community members in the District’s strategic planning process and supported the Districtwide communication plan providing for the creation of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine.
Recognized Success When Dr. Pope became superintendent, the District had earned its first Blue Ribbon Excellence award, a high honor presented by the President of the United States following a rigorous application process, site visits to validate accuracy of the application and state and national selection board reviews. Today each of the District’s schools proudly flies an excellence flag. Fort Couch and the High School have each earned three flags. Upper St. Clair is one of a very small number of school districts, nationwide, that is distinguished by the fact that all of its schools have received this envied award. In addition, the High School has earned the New American High School award, becoming part of a very small and elite group to fly this flag. These awards recognize total program success, but in order to apply, a district must first have exemplary achievement test scores. As a result of Dr. Pope’s leadership, Upper St. Clair students have distinguished themselves with composite scores in reading, mathematics and writing that are among the highest, statewide. This has been accomplished during a time when the population of students with special needs has grown dramatically. Dr. Pope’s support for students of all abilities has been exemplary. Further, Dr. Pope has inspired the creation of a “Halls of Fame” recognizing graduates of Upper St. Clair who have distinguished themselves in areas of academics, athletics and arts.
Dr. Pope’s tenure and influence in Upper St. Clair, however, extend beyond his years as superintendent. His career here began in 1972. At that time, Dr. James Weaver came from Baldwin to become the high school principal in Upper St. Clair. Dr. Weaver established the position of Administrative Assistant to the Principal, and he selected his exemplary Baldwin teacher, William A. Pope. Bill served in this position for a short period of time and quickly earned his administrative certification at which time he became Associate Principal of Upper St. Clair High School, keeping this position for five years. These were busy years for Bill as he worked on his doctorate degree, earning it in 1978. Dr. Pope’s career pathway reached broader influence when he was selected as Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction K-12 in the areas of Social Studies, Foreign Language, and Fine and Practical Arts. In 1985, Dr. Pope was promoted to the position of Assistant Superintendent of Schools, and it was in this role that he established one of the landmark programs in Upper St. Clair. The program, TTA 90, was based on the work of Madeline Hunter, and no one was more enthusiastic about her work than Bill. At this time, the vast majority of the teaching staff members were experienced educators who were not enrolled in university classes. This program was designed as a Temporary Training Assignment (TTA) to be completed in 1990, and Dr. Pope led the cadre of regional leaders who first studied Hunter’s work and then created classes for teachers designed to renew, maintain and expand their expertise. Dr. Pope remains the ultimate teacher of teachers, continuing today in providing induction classes for new staff members. Hunter’s work became Bill’s work—in fact Dr. Pope was instrumental in convincing her to come to Upper St. Clair for a memorable and magical presentation to our teachers—and the picture of Dr. Pope with Dr. Hunter prominently hangs in his office amid the floor to ceiling awards he has earned for his dedicated service. Bill’s legacy in this area will continue to be a cornerstone for all new staff members as they learn the importance of engaging students in learning by designing lessons with focus on specific objectives, practicing principles of learning including retention and reflection, and assessing the learning of students with multiple measures. A Civil War buff, Dr. Pope’s Great American Lecture on Sherman’s march will be the model for generations to come.
Dr. Pope’s contributions to Upper St. Clair School District are immeasurable. His magnitude of influence is yet to be determined since it is clear it will grow exponentially. But his personal impact on the lives of all those who know him is even greater. It is a regular occurrence for a former student to stop in without an appointment to talk with Bill; sometimes to share a story of success with him, sometimes to seek advice but always to shake hands, embrace and laugh. While his own work waits, Dr. Pope has the ability to make all those who enter his office feel valued, listened to, and respected. It has been my honor to work for and with Dr. Pope for the past 31 years, most recently serving as his Deputy Superintendent until my retirement last year. On a personal note, I thank him for giving me the projects that he might have preferred to do himself and might well have done better than I, I thank him for his patience and guidance, and I thank him for his graciousness in sharing the accolades with me and the rest of the administrative staff. One of my first recollections of Bill was, characteristically, with his wife, Kim, and the boys, Adam and Ryan. As has been typical of Kim throughout their years in Upper St. Clair, she opened their home to the administrative group, preparing delicious food and reminding the boys (who were then in their sleepers) to greet the adults personally. The atmosphere was warm and casual and Bill was wearing jeans and loafers with no socks…it’s funny what you remember. And then I remember the special evening last June when Kim and Bill invited me to dinner and it was especially nice to have Adam and Ryan join us and reminisce about the years, having grown into impressive young men who learned many lessons well—but especially they gained from their parents the ability to communicate caring and personal regard with a genuine spirit. Bill, I know that many, many others join me in saying “thank you” for being you. And for touching our lives personally, giving us the break we needed when things were tough. No matter how anxious I was about entering your office with a professional or personal problem, I always left relieved and positive. May all the generous kindness you have given throughout your years return to you in the years ahead and may you continue to do what you do best—inspire others through your spoken and expertly written word.
Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
9
U. S. House of Representatives Timothy F. Murphy
U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania 226 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-2301 Fax: 202-225-1844
504 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Phone: 412-344-5583 Fax: 412-429-5092
Website: www.house.gov/murphy E-mail: Murphy@mail.house.gov SM
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
You cannot turn on the TV, pick up a newspaper or listen to the radio without hearing or seeing vivid images that increase our concerns. When the government elevates the threat level, our worries also elevate. One of the goals of terrorists, in fact, is to build anxiety levels to the point that they disrupt our everyday lives. Fears impact our productivity and concentration as we become preoccupied with worry rather than work. Trouble sleeping, nervousness, short tempers, and sadness are some of the many reactions to stress adults may experience. As tough as it is on adults, it’s harder on children. As a parent, you are the most important person in your child’s life to help him identify and cope with his stress during this very difficult time. You can take the following steps to help your family deal with the worries about terrorism and war: listen to a child’s concerns, limit the news, look to his needs and learn what to do.
Listen to a Child’s Concerns If you don’t know what’s on your child’s mind, ask. Younger children may have trouble putting their feelings into words, and some teenagers may avoid talking with parents because they want to appear mature enough to handle it on their own. In both cases, it is important to get them to talk anyway. When children don’t share, watch for symptoms indicating they are worried. These signs may include: • Changes in personality—A quiet child may become more active. An active child may get quieter. A social child may want Summer 2003
to be left alone. Some children will hover closer to parents, and some cling and seek more physical contact and affection. Also watch for changes in appetite (eating less or eating more) and sleep (more restless sleep or increasing need for sleep). • Changes in mood—Sadness, more anger, or fighting with siblings and parents can all indicate increased anxiety. Anger never exists without some emotional trigger, including fear or excessive worry. • Changes in communication—Teens spend more time talking with friends about the issues, especially on the phone or on the Internet. Although it’s good for them to be supportive of each other, the facts are essential. False rumors spread quickly and affect this group already so influenced by peers. Make sure you ask what information they are sharing so you can offer facts and reassurance.
Limit the News After the September 11 attacks, many families left the TV or radio news on for hours in the background. We listened because we wanted to be informed in the hope that we could better understand what was so incomprehensible. Later, we discovered that children were hearing much of the news and feeling overwhelmed by what they heard. Younger children are especially vulnerable if they don’t understand the threats may be far away. When they hear about bombings and see soldiers and citizens putting on gas masks, they may think this is down the street, not across the world. Even when reassured the threats and battles are “far away” or “won’t happen here,” they
still notice parents’ emotions when hearing discussions about war and terrorist attacks and feel frightened. Get the news you need and then turn it (the TV) off. If children are playing nearby, the repetitive stories and images may affect them without you even realizing it. Wait until they are out of the room. Sometimes, young children fail to realize that what is re-broadcast happened hours or days ago. They may think it’s actually happening every half hour or whenever they see it. Ask if children have any questions. Decide how much information they can handle for their ages and maturity. Often, children require much smaller bits of information, just enough to satisfy their curiosity, compared to our quest for as much as we can digest. As the works of Fred Rogers also has taught over the years, be sure to point out the helpers in difficult situations children see on television—firefighters, police officers, military personnel, doctors, nurses, rescue workers, and government leaders. It’s comforting and reassuring for children to know there are grownups who will care for them and others who are in need.
Look to their Needs Threats and worries can distract us. Routines get disrupted, appointments forgotten, and the simple but important things get overlooked. Keeping family routines gives all of us a sense of stability and predictability to help weather stress. For children: • Let them go to school, stay on sports teams, eat meals with the family, shop, complete homework, do chores and stick to normal bedtimes. • Maintain standards for doing a good job, especially for homework and chores. Feelings of mastery and control reduce stress. • Remind them they will be cared for. Reassure them that they’re safe and protected. Remember, children are great imitators. If you’re calm, they likely will be calm, too. • Give comfort and inspiration. Reading stories or talking about heroes and mentors helps children learn strength and courage from others. Our history is filled with stories of ordinary people who, when called upon, did extraordinary things. Even make-believe characters in storybooks or real heroes inspire us. Ask your local librarian for book recommendations.
For adults: • Eat right, get enough rest, and look after your own needs. The same goes for exercise. Keep up your own fitness routines as working out reduces the body’s stress levels. Share your worries with a friend. Allow yourself to laugh or even cry, if you must. A sense of humor is a great asset. • Keep things in perspective by remembering that your chances of being harmed in an ordinary accident far exceed any chance of your harm through a terrorist strike. All of these steps help you to remain calm and be better equipped to help yourself and your children during stressful times. • If stress and worry remain; consult your physician or a therapist. Prolonged anxiety can take its toll on the body and mind. You should feel free to speak with the pediatrician or a child therapist if you see signs of prolonged stress in your son or daughter.
Learn what to do When handling a threatening situation, it’s normal to feel stressed. The less control you feel, the higher your stress level. Then, you might not deal with real problems as effectively. With proper information and preparation, you take back some of those things that were previously out of your control. It really can make you feel better equipped to go about living each day. Get the facts about what threats may exist and what you should do. The better informed you are, the better you will deal with problems. Gather information from the Homeland Security website www.dhs.gov or www.ready.gov to better understand chemical and biological weapons. Develop a plan. Just as you should have for any weather or fire emergency, you should have a plan in case of terrorist attack. Practice ways to get to a safe place, either remaining in the house in case of a weather emergency or getting out in case of a fire. There are three important questions for which you and your children should have answers, especially in the case that you are separated during an emergency: • Where do I go? Have a safe location (or locations) where everybody in your family knows to meet in the case of an emergency. Depending on what type of an emergency it is, it might be your home, a neighbor’s home, or another location. But make sure that everybody in your family
412-833-7700
Continued on page 12 Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
11
Celebrating Memorial Day–May 26
Children and Reactions to Terrorism Continued from page 11
knows where to go in each situation. If you are caught in traffic or unable to get home right away, arrange a safe place for your child to meet you. • What do I do? Each emergency has different steps to take to avoid harm and protect your family. Local fire departments often hold training exercises to teach children what to do in emergencies. Go over with your children simple, easy steps to follow for a variety of emergency scenarios. • Who do I call? Make sure each member of your family has a list of phone numbers to call in case of emergency. Remember to include a list of several numbers, in case phone lines or cell phone towers in certain areas are not functioning. For example, the World Trade Center housed many of the cell phone towers for the New York City area. That, coupled with a drastic increase in calls to New York City, made cell phones useless for most of the day on September 11. Be prepared with the right supplies at home. Every home should have basic emergency supplies such as water, canned food, flashlights, batteries, blankets and a fire extinguisher. Let your child’s school know how to reach you in an emergency, and be sure that you understand your school’s plan for your child’s safety while there. Arrange a backup plan if your child ends up at home alone during an emergency.
A Final Word Unfortunately, we are dealing with real threats of terrorism that may not go away soon. However, there are thousands and thousands of people focused solely on making our hometowns safe. Police and fire fighters, soldiers and citizens, are working night and day for our nation’s safety, but none of them are more important to your family than you and your own efforts. The comfort, reassurance, and guidance you provide every day will make a world of difference in how family members (and children) will handle these challenges and will build the confidence and courage necessary during these troubled times. 12
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
“…gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime… let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us as sacred charges upon the Nation’s gratitude—the soldier’s and sailor’s widow and orphan.” —General John Logan General Order No. 11, May 5, 1868. We, who are beneficiaries of those
who have given the ultimate sacrifice, should not ignore the “Memorial” in Memorial Day. We should observe the day as it was meant to be, a day where we actively remember our ancestors, our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors, and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice: • Visit cemeteries and place flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes. • Visit memorials. • Fly the United States flag at half-staff until noon. • Participate in a “National Moment of Remembrance” at 3 p.m. to pause and reflect upon the true meaning of the day.
The Origin of Taps In July 1862, after the Seven Days battles at Harrison’s Landing (near Richmond), Virginia, the wounded Commander of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Division, V Army Corps, Army of the Potomac, General Daniel Butterfield reworked, with his bugler Oliver Wilcox Norton, another bugle call, “Scott Tattoo,” to create “Taps.” He thought that the regular call for “Lights Out” was too formal. “Taps” was adopted throughout the Army of the Potomac and finally confirmed by orders. Soon other Union units began using “Taps,” and even a few Confederate units began using it as well. After the war, “Taps” became an official bugle call. Colonel James A. Moss, in his officer’s manual first published in 1911, gives an account of the initial use of “Taps” at a military funeral: “During the Peninsular Campaign in 1862, a soldier of Tidball’s Battery A of the 2nd Artillery was buried at a time when the battery occupied an advanced position concealed in the woods. It was unsafe to fire the customary three volleys over the grave because of the proximity of the enemy, and it occurred to Captain Tidball that the sounding of “Taps” would be the most appropriate ceremony that could be substituted.”
Summer 2003
While there are no official words to Taps, below are the most popular. Day is done, gone the sun, from the hills, from the lake, from the skies. All is well, safely rest, God is nigh. Go to sleep, peaceful sleep. May the soldier or sailor, God keep. On the land or the deep, safe in sleep. Love, good night. Must thou go, when the day, and the night need thee so? All is well. Speedeth all to their rest. Fades the light; and afar goeth day, and the stars shineth bright. Fare thee well; day has gone, night is on. Thanks and praise, for our days, ’neath the sun, ’neath the stars, ’neath the sky. As we go, this we know, God is nigh.
Congressman Murphy Named to Veterans Affairs Committee “The more than 200,000 veterans
• • • • •
amendments to strengthen existing laws concerning veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), such as for health care, disability compensation, GI bill education and job training, home loan guarantees, life insurance policies, and a nationwide system of veterans’ cemeteries. In the past four years, VA has expanded the system to include more than 600 health care facilities, including medical centers, nursing homes and hundreds of community-based outpatient clinics organized into service networks throughout the nation, now caring for an estimated 3.7 million veterans. Murphy’s healthcare background as a clinical psychologist and an adjunct associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine also enabled him to be named to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health. As a member of this committee, Murphy will consider legislation directly affecting the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, which has three medical centers
It’s What You’ve Been Waiting For!
in Pittsburgh and clinics in Greensburg, Washington and Aliquippa. “I will work to ensure these men and women who sacrificed their lives for our freedom are well represented and receive the service they have rightfully earned,” said Murphy, who noted that 1.2 million veterans reside in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition to serving on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Subcommittee on Health, Congressman Murphy also is a member of the Government Reform Subcommittee on National Security, Veterans’ Affairs and International Affairs. He was also recently appointed vice chairman of the House Government Reform Subcommittee on Civil Service and Agency Organization. Congressman Murphy also has distinguished himself from his fellow freshman house members by being elected to serve as vice president of the 2003 freshman class. In this capacity, he will be instrumental in developing and communicating the house majority’s goals and messages in the 108th Congress.
Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Jean Gedeon, Artistic Director
Official School of the Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company
Ballet • Po inte • Varia tions • Moder n Pas de Deux • J azz • Pilat es
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• Summer Program July 7th - August 1st • Internationally Renowned School and Company • High School Early Dismissal Program • Professional Performing Opportunities • VISA, MC, Discover & AMEX Accepted • Positive Nurturing Environment • Fully Equipped A/C Studios • Pre-School Classes - ages 2yrs & up
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For Information Call Bonnie Byrnes or John Geisler at 412-344-0500 x210 or x222 Call for a free brochure
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PYBC Performing “ Who Cares? ” Choreography by George Balanchine©, The George Balanchine Trust
N Ph ow as e O II pe n!
who live in Southwest Pennsylvania deserve a voice in Washington—that is why I worked so hard to serve on this committee,” Congressman Tim Murphy (PA-18) said, announcing he has been named to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs as of February 27, 2003. Murphy is the only member of Pennsylvania’s Congressional delegation to serve on this committee. Since Pennsylvania had no representation on the Veterans’ Affairs committee, Murphy worked for weeks to get the assignment— even though committee assignments were closed in January. Murphy enlisted the support of his delegation colleagues to receive a waiver from house leadership to serve on the committee. This waiver was necessary because house rules stipulate that members only can serve on two committees (Murphy already serves on the Financial Services and Government Reform committees.) The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs reviews veterans’ programs, examines current laws, and reports bills and
1033 Paxton Drive, Bethel Park, PA 15102
www.pybco.com
Spring Performance Something for Everyone
“The Fairy Ballet” an original children’s ballet George Balanchine’s “Valse Fantasie” Anthony Tudor’s “Continuo” www.waterdamfarms.com
Byham Theatre • Saturday, June 7 at 7:30pm & Sunday June 8 at 2:00pm
Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Kathi Kernan, RRS, Christie's Specialist - I've lived in our wonderful Township for 33 years, graduating from the high school in 1978. Even then, the school district had a lot to offer-but 25 years later, it is truly incredible. My sons, John and Pat, take full advantage of everything from honors and AP courses, philosophy club, Boy Scouts, baseball, Latin trips, Band occasions, dances, socials, lacrosse, and much more! I'm looking forward to starting the whole school process again this fall at Streams Elementary when my five-year-old, Jake, begins kindergarten. Thank you, Dr. Pope for creating a district we can truly be proud of! Selling real estate for the past 12 years, I've realized how important township amenities and schools are to the majority of buyers. My job is easier and more prosperous because of where I live.
Kathy McCloskey, RRS, Christie's Specialist - I am a 15-year resident of Upper St. Clair, and a life long resident of the South Hills. My husband Tim and I feel that the sense of community, and the acclaimed school district prompted our decision to settle in Upper St. Clair. Our two daughters, Kristen and Carrie, graduated from Upper St. Clair High School. The prestigious reputation of the school district and the educational background they received gave them opportunities they might not have otherwise had. As a result, Kristen is enjoying a successful career in sales, and Carrie is pursuing a Master's Degree at Chatham College. This is my eighth year as a Real Estate agent and my positive experiences with the School District have only helped to affirm my client's interest and desire for a top rated School District. As a Residential Relocation Specialist (RRS), it always gives me great pride to show out of town customers the wonderful facilities from the high school, to the current construction projects in the elementary schools. The ride along McLaughlin Run Road peaks clients' interest as they see the tennis facility, ballparks, recreation center, golf course, and Library. I am also a Certified New Construction Specialist. Most of all I enjoy working and living in Upper. St. Clair. My best wishes go to Dr. Pope.
Nancy Beaulieu, Christie's Specialist - I am a native of the South Hills and have been a resident of Upper St. Clair for almost 10 years. I am married to my husband Peter and have two sons who attend Upper St. Clair schools; one at Streams, the other at Fort Couch. Both boys are active in many of the Township sports activities as well as scouting and Odyssey of the Mind programs available through our schools. I have been a Realtor with Howard Hanna for over five years. My prior work experience includes several years in sales with AT&T and Bell Telephone. Some of my credentials include Rookie of the Year, Listing Leader, Sales Leader, Multi-Million Dollar Producer, and Champion's Club. I would like to wish Dr. Pope the best of luck in his future. We will all miss him!
Tim Reitmeyer - I am a life long resident of the South Hills and a Realtor for the past 10 years with the Howard Hanna Upper St. Clair office. A graduate of South Hills Catholic High School and the University of Pittsburgh, I spent nearly 20 years in the corporate sector before joining Howard Hanna in 1993. Since 1996, I've been recognized annually with the National Sales Excellence award for ranking among the top five percent of Realtors nationwide. Consistently among the top producers in the Upper St. Clair Office, I led the office in 2002 in units sold. My wife Sheryl, a teacher with the Pittsburgh public schools, and I have been married for 26 years. We have two grown children; Taylor and Kevin-still at home. My family and I wish to congratulate Dr. Pope on his excellent career and dedication to the Upper St. Clair School District. We hope for him-enjoyment, relaxation, and pleasure in retirement. He has earned it all.
Leigh Harkreader - I have been an Upper St. Clair resident for almost 14 years, and know all too well the challenges as well as opportunities that accompany relocation. I grew up an Army brat and moved 11 times prior to high school graduation. As an adult I have also managed quite a few corporate moves with my husband and his employment with Dupont Corporation. When we relocated to Pittsburgh from New Jersey, interviewing local school districts was a priority. We chose USC for its strong schools and solid resale value. With both sons now in college, I firmly believe that not only has my family benefited from the excellent school system directed by Dr. Pope but we have also enjoyed being a part of the many activities, clubs and community organizations in Upper St. Clair. Having launched my two children with the solid foundation gained in the USC community, I find it easy to enthusiastically sell the Upper St. Clair community. I would like to recognize Dr. Pope's contribution to our school district and all that makes Upper St. Clair such an exceptional community!
Susan Highley - My motto, "Your Real Estate Needs Are My #1 Priority", perfectly illustrates my commitment to exceeding customer expectations. I have been a full time Real Estate agent for 14 years as well as a long time resident of Upper St. Clair. I have been a consistent sales leader in my office and a regular National Sales Excellence Realtor. My background in high-level corporate positions makes me uniquely qualified to market your home and to assist buyers in finding the perfect home. I sell Upper St. Clair as a beautiful community, well organized and administered, with exceptional schools. Good luck to you Dr. Pope and best wishes.
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Gigi Falvo, SSRS, RRS - I am a long time resident of Upper St. Clair, and I've been with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services for five years. My designations include: Senior Real Estate Specialist (SSRS), Residential Relocation Specialist (RRS), Realtor Member of PA and member of the Pennsylvania Realtors Association. My son attends Fort Couch and is involved in the USC swim team. I sell the community and schools, not just a house. Prior to becoming an associate of the Howard Hanna team, I managed an art gallery in Mt. Lebanon that maintained corporate sales and a residential client base. I earned a degree in drafting and design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and an architectural studies/art history degree from the University of Pittsburgh. In my spare time, I commit to volunteering on many school committees. Good luck Dr. Pope, I always drive clients past the high school-an impressive sight!
Maureen Cavanaugh, RRS - My family resides in the Dominion neighborhood of Upper St. Clair. My husband, an attorney, has been a great source of encouragement to me. The combined hours in Real Estate and law can be hectic and long, but I attribute much of my success to the support of my famil y. I was an active volunteer at the schools and involved in the PTA while my children were in school. I witnessed first hand what an exceptional school district we have. Now college students, my three daughters certainly benefited from the experiences of their elementary, middle and high school years. Selling Upper St. Clair to people relocating to this area has been easy for me. As a 24 year resident I have a real appreciation for everything about our Township. My dedication to this career has made me a consistent top producer. I've been recognized with the National Sales Excellence award and I am a member of Howard Hanna's Champions Club and a designated Relocation Specialist. I appreciate the friends I've made and the neighbors I have in Upper St. Clair. Good relationships are the most important aspect of any successful business and I feels fortunate to know and work for so many of our residents. I look forward to continuing my career in a place I am proud to call home.
Mary Sapienza - A transplant from the "Show Me" state of Missouri, I have spent the last 20 years between Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair. Having experienced building, renovating, renting and living in four different homes during that time, my interest and move into real estate with Howard Hanna was a natural. I graduated from Southeast Missouri University with a business and English teaching degree and taught high school for six years. My next 25 years were committed to the proprietary school industry where I served in many capacities ranging from director, vice president, and president of schools such as the Bradford School in St. Louis, Sawyer School, and Pittsburgh Technical Institute. Additionally, I developed and managed a corporate training organization while earning my master's degree in professional leadership from Carlow College. I have two children who enjoy growing up in a community with so much to offer. As an educator, the school district's stellar reputation was a major consideration for my move here. My son, RJ, was very active in the High School crew team, and even came back to help coach the team for three years. My daughter, Lauren, is a USC junior and is very involved in all aspects of the music program. Selling real estate has allowed me to combine my business background with a community of assets that are easy to sell along with the opportunity to interact with extremely friendly people here.
Denise Gallucci - My husband Gary and I moved to Upper St. Clair 11 years ago to provide our two children with the best schools the area could offer. I was an active volunteer in the schools and was then hired by the District to help pilot the School-Wide Enrichment Program (SWEP). I know how important Dr. Pope's influence has been in molding the District's programs, policies and personnel. I hold a Master's Degree in counseling from Duquesne University and an undergraduate degree from Penn State University. Before getting into Real Estate I worked as a corporate executive with a national trade association and as a family counselor and administrator with Catholic Charities. I find my work in Real Estate gives me an opportunity to tap both my business and "people" skills. I am confident th at most of my local business is a direct result of the reputation of the Upper St. Clair schools. So, on both a personal and professional level, I thank Dr. Pope for the contribution he has made to the community, to my children's education, and my business. You will be sorely missed!
Phil Yecko - I have lived in Upper St. Clair for over 30 years, in four different neighborhoods of our Township. My sole reason for moving to USC in August 1972 was the already excellent reputation of its school system dating back to the early 70s. My son, Philip, entered first grade in 1972 just one month after our move here. He graduated in 1984 and went on to MIT and Columbia and is now a PhD. Research Physicist and Professor of Astronomy. I believe the established school system, the excellent gifted programs, and especially Dr. Deblasio helped my son to realize his interests and focus on them. I am a native of the South Hills and I believe there is no other municipality equal to Upper St. Clair Township-excellent school district, great neighborhoods, friendly residents, accessibility to everything, and safe because of our wonderful police department. This is truly the place to make your biggest investment, your home, and have the best schools and police protection for your family. I know because I live here.
Diane Horvath, GRI, AEF, RRS - My husband Frank and I were transferred to Pittsburgh 20 years ago. The decision to live in Upper St. Clair was based on the quality of education that was available for our children, Chip and Danielle. The exceptional programs that Dr. Pope molded in our School District during his tenure positively influenced their lives and career choices. I have spent the last 17 years selling real estate, the school district, the life style and the community of Upper St. Clair. This has contributed to my success as consistent top producer and the top sales leader for 2000, 2001,and 2002 and my commitment to complete satisfaction in selling or buying a home. As a corporate relocation representative, I am often asked about the School District. Not only can I supply them with the District's impressive statistics, but as a parent and resident of the community I can speak from personal experience about the positive effect Dr. Pope has had on my family, in and out of the school district. I will always be indebted to him for all he has done for our community. My family wishes Dr. Pope all the best.
Suzy Voss - I have worked in the Upper St. Clair office of Howard Hanna for nine years. I have been recognized with the National Sales Excellence award and I am a multimillion dollar producer. Not only am I a life long resident of the South Hills, but a true believer of the desirability of Upper St. Clair Township. The schools are just one of the many amenities this community offers. As a Relocation Specialist, I have found introducing transferees to Upper St. Clair to be a perfect fit. Much of the school's success can be attributed to Dr. Pope and his dedication to making this district one of the best in the country.
412-833-3600 www.howardhanna.com 180 Fort Couch Road - Upper St. Clair, PA Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Fun in the Sun 25th Annual Community Day—May 17, 2003
Activities
Mud Volleyball will begin at 6:30 a.m. This annual event for high school juniors and seniors kicks off the 25th Annual Community Day Celebration. Run for Fun will begin at 9 a.m. SHARP! Please pre-register by completing the form on page 18 and mailing it prior to the May 12 deadline. The 3.1 mile non-sanctioned race will begin in the lower parking lot at the Upper St. Clair High School stadium. The race is open to runners of all ages. Race day registration is between 7:45 and 8:30 a.m. The annual Community Day Parade will begin at 11:30 a.m. The parade will follow the route from Truxton Drive, down McLaughlin Run Road, ending at the Municipal Building. Pony Rides will be offered for children for $2. The arena will be located behind the Recreation Center. The rides will be offered immediately following the parade until 4 p.m. The Middle School Games for Fort Couch and Boyce School students will be held on the Municipal basketball courts from 1–2:30 p.m. These games will consist of an obstacle course and a water balloon toss. The annual Water Balloon Toss will be held on the Municipal Little League field at 2:30 p.m. All participants will receive a prize. The annual Community Day Treasure Hunt will be held at noon. Clues will be displayed at booth Number 1 immediately after the parade. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the search for the treasure and win a prize! The 1857 Gilfillan Farm House, a work of restoration in progress, and the surrounding buildings will be open on Community Day from noon–3 p.m. Access will be from Orr Road by Community Day shuttle bus. Country Fair Games will be held noon–3 p.m. at the Gilfillan Farm House. Take the Community Day shuttle bus and join in for some crafts, games and special activities designed for children up to grade four. The Moon Walk will be located in the Library parking lot from noon–4 p.m., sponsored free of charge through a donation by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. The Petting Zoo will be located behind the Library and will be open from noon–5 p.m. Children can visit the animals at no cost. There is a minimal fee for food and milk for the animals. Clair’s Kennel will be open noon–3 p.m. Get information regarding your pet’s care and licensing. See where runaway pets are temporarily held. Talk with an Animal Control Officer. Animals will be available for adoption. The Log House will be open for tours, noon–3 p.m. and will have demonstrations, crafts and activities for the whole family. The Duck Race sponsored by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair will start at 3:30 p.m. Residents may purchase ducks in advance by contacting Jim Bennett at the High School, or stop by the Community Foundation booth on Community Day. 16
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Annual Community Day Schedule 6:30 a.m. ..............................Junior/Senior Mud Volleyball Behind Recreation Center 7:30–9:30 a.m. ......................................... Fair Booth Setup Recreation Center Parking Lot 7:45–8:30 a.m. ............................Run for Fun Registration High School Stadium—Registration form on page 18 9 a.m. ............................................................... Run for Fun High School Stadium Entrance 9–10 a.m. .......................................“Finest Feline” Contest Stage Area—Registration form on page 18 10–11 a.m. ...................................... “Hottest Dog” Contest Stage Area—Registration form on page 18 11 a.m.–5 p.m. .................................................. Fair Booths Open Entertainment 11:30 a.m. ................................................................. Parade Noon .............................................................Treasure Hunt Booth #1 in Fair Area Noon–3 p.m. ................................. Log House Open House Clair’s Kennel Open House Gilfillan Farm Tours Country Fair Games Gilfillan Farm House Noon–4 p.m. ......................................................Moon Walk Library Parking Lot Pony Rides Behind Recreation Center Noon–5 p.m. ......................................................Petting Zoo Behind Library 1–2:30 p.m. ...................................... Middle School Games Municipal Basketball Courts Water Balloon Toss at 2:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. .............................................Run for Fun Awards Stage Area Diaper Derby Municipal Little League Field Registration form on page 19 3:30 p.m. .............................................................Duck Race McLaughlin Run Creek
Shuttle Bus Parking Shuttle bus service will be available every half-hour starting at 10 a.m. at the following locations: • Boyce Middle School to Municipal • Fort Couch to Municipal • Gilfillan Farm to Municipal • USC High School to Municipal • Westminster Presbyterian Church to Municipal Please be advised that permit parking only will be permitted in the Public Works parking lot.
Community Day 2003 Committee Heads and Co-Heads Students AUXILIARY—Tony Ferrara BOOTHS—Jenny Kline, Blair Ashley COUNTRY FAIR GAMES—Taryn Bird, Tim Wagner DIAPER DERBY—Maureen Mann, Karen McClintock ENTERTAINMENT—Dan Grealish, Tanner McKibben, Jeff Greenberg MIDDLE SCHOOL GAMES—Carl Radke, Ryan McCormick
MUD VOLLEYBALL—Erich Scheller, Kunal Rambhia PARADE—Claire Graff, Monica Applebe PARKING LOT—Mollie Binotto, Michelle Ross PUBLICITY—Celeste Petursson, Katie Surma RUN 4 FUN—Katie DeLeo, Julie Poljak, Emily Bird T-SHIRTS—Sarah Hipps, Kelly Borra
Township and School District Representatives Eisenhower PTA—RUN FOR FUN—Mary Schmitt Baker PTA—TREASURE HUNT—Cathi Hopkins Streams PTA—PARADE—Carla Roehner Fort Couch PTA—MIDDLE SCHOOL GAMES—Mary Ellen Rhoa Boyce PTA—COUNTRY FAIR GAMES—Mary Ellen Rhoa High School PTSO—PROGRAMS and PUBLICITY—Andrea Briggs USC High School—Danny Holzer, Director of Student Activities, Sheila Bartlett, Assistant Director of Student Activities
United Senior Citizens—Lynn Walcoff Cable 7—Glenn Ward Township of Upper St. Clair— Karen Babeji, Recreation Program Coordinator Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services George Kostelich, Superintendent of Operations Ron Pardini, Chief of Police Ron Pardini, Jr., Deputy Director of Public Works
Fair Booths: The following organizations ask you to stop by to enjoy food, games and fun on Community Day! Baker PTA—Treasure Hunt Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair—Duck Race, Float Contest, Moon Walk Fraudin Chiropractic and Rehabilitation—Spinal Screening Gobbie Chiropractic Center—Sports Chair Massage Janet Hays and Company Dance Studio—Balancing Contest Hillcrest Christian Academy—Candy Apples, Caramel Apples Nick Eric Wichman Foundation—Pierogies, Haluski, Soft Drinks, Raffle Peters Creek Baptist Church—Helium Balloons, Huggies, Water Prudential Preferred Realty—Ring Toss Game PTSO USC High School—Spinning Wheel Game, Tattoos Sala Chiropractic and Rehabilitation—Back Pack Safety or Osteoporosis Bone Density Screening St. John Capistran Youth Group—Game, Balloons South Hills Community Baptist Church—Give-Away Contest, Literature The Alliance Church—Painting Sun Catchers, Putt Putt Golf Tri-Community South EMS—Emergency Medical Service United Senior Citizens of USC—Bingo, Bake Sale, Beverages USC/BP Breakfast Rotary—Pin Ball Game USC Band Parents—Game USC Baseball Boosters—Pizza, Baseball Throw USC Boy Scout Troop 366—Carnival Games USC Chamber of Commerce—Ice Cream Booth USC Cheer Boosters—Lemonade, Hot Chocolate, Putting Green, Ring Toss USC Citizens for Land Stewardship—Information USC Dance Team Boosters—Pulled Pork Sandwiches
USC Democratic Committee—Cotton Candy, Nachos USC Field Hockey Booster Club—Mini Hockey Game USC Football Boosters—Pick-A-Ticket, USC Football Gear USC Girls’ Lacrosse—Game USC Girls’ Softball Boosters—Face Painting USC HS Forensics—Ceramic Pot Painting USC HS Girls’ Basketball—South Side Pretzels, Closest to the Pin Contest USC HS Girls’ Tennis Team—Tennis Game USC HS Lacrosse Club—Sponge Toss Game USC HS Soccer Boosters (Boys and Girls)—Soccer Shots on Goal, Merchandise USC Newcomers—Bean Bag Toss, Information USC Police Department—Information USC PTA Council—Wheel Game USC Republican Committee—Kielbasi, Hot Dogs, French Fries USC School District—Information USC Student Council—Merchandise Sales USC Tennis Association—Tennis Game USC Volunteer Fire Department—Fire Safety Wellington Real Estate—Children’s Bean Bag Toss Game Westminster Presbyterian Church—Game, Small Prizes Woman’s Club of USC—Funnel Cake Youth Steering Committee—Dime Toss Xi Zeta Tau—Pick-A-Ticket 1830 Log House Historical Landmark Association— Open House 12 noon–3:00 p.m.
Patrons: Thanks to the following patrons for their financial support of Community Day! Adelphia Cable Chuck’s Complete Auto Service Citizens Bank—Friendship Village and Peters Township Offices Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair CONSOL Energy, Inc. Friendship Village of Upper St. Clair Lorenzato Automotive Service McCarl’s Services Inc. Party Plus/by Taylor Rental
Pasquarelli’s Restaurant Pete Donati & Sons, Inc. Rusmur Floors South Hills Financial Group St. Clair Country Club The Gateway Engineers, Inc. Traffic Control Equipment & Supplies Co., Inc. ZEP Mfg. Co./Ray Santomo
Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Fun in the Sun—Community Day 2003 “Finest Feline” Contest Community Day—Saturday, May 17 9 a.m. promptly at the Stage Area Sponsored by Prudential Preferred Realty, Route 19 South Office
Competition Categories • Top Cat (general) • Fat Cat (most rotund) • Hat on a Cat • Character Cat (costume) • Cutest Kitten Participants must register in advance by mail by May 10 and include copy of pet inoculation.
Checks payable to Make A Wish for $2. Prizes are awarded to top three cats per category. Pets must be leashed or crated! Name: __________________________________________
9
Address:_________________________________________ Phone: __________________________________________ Cat’s Name: ______________________________________ Contest Category: _________________________________
Community Day Run for Fun When: Saturday, May 17, 2003. Race begins at 9 a.m. sharp! Where: Upper St. Clair High School: A 3.1 mile, moderately
hilly course, starting and finishing at Panther Stadium. Advanced Registration: $2 registration fee prior to
May 12, 2003. Mail registration to the address below. Pre-registered runners should pick up their numbers between 8:30 and 8:45 a.m. on the day of the race at the High School track parking lot on Truxton Drive. Late Registration: $3 the day of the race. Registration will be
held at the High School parking lot on Truxton Drive the morning of the race from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. Please arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. to allow time for registration before the start of the race. Awards will be presented at the stage area at 1:30 p.m. Race
results will be posted at the Recreation Center on Community Day. Come run for fun and exercise. Bring the whole family!
Trophies or plaques for first place, and ribbons for second and third place will be awarded in the following age groups. (Please note—this is not a sanctioned race.)
USC “Finest Feline” Contest
Prudential Preferred Realty—Gladys Walasik 1679 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15228-1603
• 8 & under • 9 to 11 • 12 to 14 • 15 to 19
• 20 to 29 • 30 to 39 • 40 to 50 • 51 & over
• 8 & under • 9 to 11 • 12 to 14 • 15 to 19
• 20 to 29 • 30 to 39 • 40 & over
USC’s “Hottest Dog” Contest
Run For Fun Registration Form
Community Day—May 17, 2003 10 - 11 a.m. at Stage Area Sponsored by Howard Hanna of USC
Name____________________________________________
FIVE CATEGORIES OF COMPETITION
Address __________________________________________
• Best Dressed Dog • Best Pet Trick • Most Colorful Dog • Cutest Puppy • Owner and Dog Look-Alike
Age as of May 17, 2003 ____________
Name: ________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________
Make checks payable to:
Upper St. Clair Community Day Return this form by May 12, 2003 to:
Mary Schmitt 2064 Outlook Drive Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Phone Number: ________________________________ Dog’s Name: ___________________________________ Category Dog is entered in: _______________________ Send registration form and current immunization record with $3 entry fee to: Howard Hanna Real Estate 180 Fort Couch Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Questions should be directed to: Leigh Harkreader or Kathi Kernan at 412-833-3600 Please register prior to May 14, 2003 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Sex ___________
Telephone Number ________________________________
Entries are limited to ten dogs per category. Prizes will be awarded to the top three dogs in each category. All participants must register in advance.
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FEMALE
MALE
Mail registration, pet inoculation record and $2 fee to:
CONSENT RELEASE FORM: I agree to hold the Township of
Upper St. Clair, the Community Day committee and volunteers, and/or any employees thereof harmless and blameless for any accident or injury which may occur while participating in the Run For Fun. _________________________________________________ Signature
Date (Parent/Guardian if Under 18 Years of Age)
Fun in the Sun—Community Day 2003 The Gilfillan Heritage
Diaper Derby The Diaper Derby, a crawling race, will be held at the Municipal Baseball field’s outfield. The Diaper Derby will be held at 1:30 p.m. sharp! Proud parents and their babies can enter the Diaper Derby. Categories include 1 day to 6 months and 6 months, 1 day to 1 year old. The winners in each age group will receive gift certificates. A registration form is found below:
Doors are Open for Community Day—May 17
Diaper Derby Registration Form Name of baby _____________________________________ Address __________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Telephone ________________________________________
q Male
q Female
Age as of May 17, 2003 q less than 6 months
q between 6 months and 1 year
CONSENT RELEASE FORM: I agree to hold the Township of Upper
St. Clair, the Community Day committee and volunteers, and/or any employees thereof harmless and blameless for any accident or injury which may occur while participating in the Diaper Derby.
_________________________________________________ Parent’s Signature
Date
Return this form by May 14, 2003 to:
Department of Recreation and Leisure Services Township of Upper St. Clair 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
In Memorium The Historical Society of Upper St. Clair would like to extend its heartfelt sympathy to the family of Rose Terrick who passed away earlier this year. Rose was a faithful member of the Society for many years and will be missed by all.
Alexander Gilfillan came to the area of western Pennsylvania
that is now Upper St. Clair, during the late 1760s and built a log cabin on land where the present St. Clair Country Club stands. Over the next 30 years he acquired and established a large farm of 413 acres called “Cato.” In 1857 the Gilfillan family built their permanent home, a handsome red brick building and outbuildings located one-quarter mile north of the Log House. It can be seen today on Route 19, Washington Road, across from the Upper St. Clair Fire Station. Margaret Gilfillan willed the farmhouse and remaining 15 acres belonging to the Gilfillan family, to the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair. With this gift came the responsibility to operate and utilize the property as a cultural, historical and educational center for all to enjoy. On Community Day, May 17, you have the opportunity to share in Margaret’s wishes. The farmhouse, a work of restoration in progress, and the surrounding buildings will be open from noon to 3 p.m. Come take a look around and enjoy local history. Access will be from Orr Road by Community Day shuttle bus. Look for more information on Cable 7 and the Township website www.twpusc.org. If your visit to the Gilfillan farmhouse sparks your interest in Upper St. Clair history, a visit to our Library is also in order. Margaret Gilfillan was an active member of the historical society. She recorded her memories and research in three booklets that were published by the society. Copies may be viewed at the Upper St. Clair Library. Margaret lived to 100 years old, dying in 2001, but her dreams and wishes live on. Come experience Gilfillan on Community Day this year and be a part of history! Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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C o m m u n i t y
20
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
D a y
2 0 0 2
Photos by Nancy and Laura Barnard
Co m m unity
Da y
of
Old
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70 Fort Couch Road, Upper St. Clair
412-833-6166 www.stevenrcrandalldmd.com Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
21
Lions Honor Student Elizabeth Anne Williams Upper St. Clair Lions Club selected
Elizabeth Anne (Liz) Williams, a national honor student, to receive an award presented annually to a female Upper St. Clair High School student for outstanding community service during her junior year. The Lions base their selection on recommendations submitted by High School administration. Liz’s volunteer work keeps her quite busy. She primarily volunteers her time at St. Louise de Marillac Church and is especially helpful with the pre-school and CCD programs. She also coordinated the aides for the summer Bible program and was a playground counselor for both St. Louise and the Upper St. Clair Township summer programs. To recognize Liz for her volunteer efforts she was also a St. Lucy’s Medallion Award recipient, receiving the award from Bishop Wuerl this past winter. Liz has worked at UPMC South in the children’s room, a non-profit service offered at the Oxford Drive location. She plays varsity lacrosse for the High School and is participating
Left to right: USC Lions president Paul Rebholz, Barbara Williams, Liz Williams and Liz’s dad, Robert Williams.
this year in the German exchange program as a fifth year German student. Liz’s mom, Barbara Williams, is a USC fourth level teacher at Baker and is the District’s elementary science curriculum leader for students kindergarten through fourth level. For information on the award or about the USC Lions Club, please call representative Ken Marshall at 412-221-8095.
Who are Lions and What do Lions do? Ken Marshall The Lions were founded in Chicago in 1917 when Melvin Jones convinced his
fe harmon pick up from fall 1999 film @ pentagon
22
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
luncheon club to form a national organization dedicated to networking for business and social purposes and to improve the local community. Today there are over 40,000 Lions clubs with more than 1.4 million members in over 180 countries making the Lions the largest service organization in the world. Most of the world’s eye banks are established and supported by Lions, as are hundreds of clinics, hospitals and eye research centers. Lions recycle eyeglasses and hearing aids, and they support research for diabetes and diabetic eye disease. The Upper St. Clair Lions Club was formed in 1955. Fundraisers have enabled the club to contribute money to many local organizations, such as: Pittsburgh Vision Services Radio Information Service Leader Dogs for the Blind Western PA School for the Blind Meals on Wheels Children’s Institute South Hills Hospice Upper St. Clair Library Upper St. Clair Lions also provide funds to the needy for eye exams and glasses. Lions volunteer their time to humanitarian causes in local and world communities. Recently, Lions clubs throughout the world donated over $3 million to the September 11 tragedies in New York City, Washington, DC and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Summer 2003
The Upper St Clair Lions have three major fundraisers each year. One is the sale of straw brooms made by the visually impaired and high quality plastic trash bags. These can be purchased and delivered to your home throughout the year. The second is the sale of compostable brown paper leaf bags in the fall of each year, which are available for purchase and pick-up at the USC Department of Public Works on McLaughlin Run Road. Third, is the sale of “Blind Seals” stickers. Remember, your purchase of these items enables your local Lions club to donate money to the organizations that are dependent on money given to them from service clubs and foundations. You can make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Become a Lion and reap the benefits of helping those in need. Meetings generally last two hours and are on the first and third Wednesday of each month beginning at 7 p.m. For more information, log on to www.mainstreetusc.com and link on to Lions Club listed under USC Clubs, or write us at USC Lions, PO Box 12778, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241.
Help us help others.
Rhode Island Nightclub Fire Safety Tips for Places of Public Assembly
Every day, millions of people wake up,
go to work or school, and take part in social events. But every so often the unexpected happens: an earthquake, a fire, a chemical spill, an act of terrorism or some other disaster. Routines change drastically, and people are suddenly aware of how fragile their lives and routines can be. Each disaster can have lasting effects—people may be seriously injured or killed, and devastating and costly property damage can occur. The Station nightclub fire in West Warwick, Rhode Island, was a disaster of historical proportion. People entering any public assembly building need to be prepared in case of an emergency.
Should you Enter? Take a good look—does the building appear to be in a condition that makes you feel comfortable? Is the main entrance wide, and does it open outward to allow easy exit? Is the outside area clear of materials stored against the building or blocking exits?
Before you Enter Have a communication plan—identify a relative or friend beforehand to contact in case of emergency and you are separated from family or friends. Plan a meeting place—pick a meeting place outside to meet family or friends with whom you are attending the function. If there is an emergency, be sure to meet them there.
When you Enter Locate exits immediately—when you enter a building look for all available exits. Are the exits clearly marked and well lit? Some exits may be in front and some in back of you. Always be prepared to use the
exit closest to you. (You may not be able to use the main exit.) Check for clear exit paths—make sure aisles are wide enough and not obstructed by chairs or furniture. Check to make sure your exit door is not blocked or chained. If there are not at least two clearly marked exits, or exit paths are blocked, report the violation to management and leave the building if it is not immediately addressed. Call the local fire marshal to register a complaint.
SUSAN HIGHLEY Experience you can trust . . .
Do you Feel Safe? Does the building appear to be overcrowded? Are there fire sources such as candles burning, cigarettes or cigars burning, pyrotechnics, or other heat sources that may make you feel unsafe? Are there safety systems in place such as alternative exits, sprinklers, and smoke alarms? Ask the management for clarification on your concerns. If you do not feel safe in the building, leave immediately.
During an Emergency React immediately—if an alarm sounds, you see smoke or fire, or other unusual disturbances immediately exit the building in an orderly fashion. Use your closest exit—keep in mind that it may not be the main exit. Get out, stay out!—once you have escaped, stay out. Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. Let trained firefighters conduct rescue operations. Take the time to learn about the public assembly buildings you may enter so that you know what to do if the unexpected happens. ©Copyright 2003 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Please contact Deborah A. Waller, Upper St. Clair Township Fire Marshal at 412-831-9000, extension 262 with questions or concerns.
Summer 2003
service you can
COUNT ON! Over 13 years in the South Hills Area
412.833.3600 ext. 268 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
23
Township of Upper St. Clair Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings
Frank E. Marsh President, Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-6244 2003*
All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners, and citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, please call 412-831-9000.
Robert W. Orchowski
Vice President, Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2003*
Edward S. Long Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-257-5197 2003*
Gloria Smith Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-1284 2005*
Cheryl S. Bayne Ward 4
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-831-5814 2005*
Bill Bates
January 6, 2003
February 3, 2003
Approximately 13 people attended.
Approximately 12 people attended.
The Board: • Adopted Bill No. 1-03 to grant preliminary and final subdivision to the Hays Road Properties Plan of Lots, subject to the conditions. • Adopted Bill No. 2-03 to grant final planned residential approval to Friendship Village of South Hills Consolidation Plan Lot 401, second revision for expansion of existing employee parking, subject to certain conditions. • Moved to continue the public hearing on the Status Report Re. Southern Hilands/Route 19 Turning Restriction Study. Additional time to continue this study was granted to Township staff. • Adopted Bill No. 3-03 as amended which would amend Chapter 9 of the Code of the Township entitled, “Wards.” • Adopted Resolution No. 1428 to authorize the disposal of Township records.
Recognition: • Commissioner Bates presented a Proclamation to Christopher J. Hauge recognizing his attainment of Eagle Scout rank.
Approval of Contracts: • Davey Tree Expert Company Category 7 pesticide applications (two years) ............................................. $80,632 • Ford Motor Company 2003.5 Ford Focus Equipment Loan and Evaluation Agreement Other Business: • Mr. Watkins stated that residents of the Township had been mailed a revised flier regarding the 2003 refuse and recycling schedule. • Commissioner Harris stated that he would like to address snowplow damage to property of Township residents. The Township has instituted a post card notification to send out to residents when damage has occurred to their property by snowplows.
At Large
The Board: • Moved to continue the public hearing Re. St. Clair Pointe, a 65-unit patio home community located off Boyce Plaza Road. Tentative approval given for a planned residential development. • Adopted Bill No. 4-03, amending Chapter 96 entitled “Peddling and Soliciting” bringing the Township into compliance with U.S. Supreme Court case law. Approved the following contracts: • Day Ford—Monroeville Four 2003 police patrol vehicles ........... $81,352 Other Business: • Mr. Watkins stated that in addition to postcard notification being sent to residents in the event of property damage caused by a Township snowplow, communication will also be made by telephone. • Mr. Watkins stated that the Township recently submitted Ward Redistricting to the County. The Director of the Department of Elections advised that the Township had done the best job of all Allegheny County communities needing revisions. Mr. Watkins commended Mr. Serakowski and Ms. Miller on their excellent work. • Commissioner Smith expressed her disappointment that Adelphia Cable plans to begin offering adult programming to this franchise area. The Board agreed to have the Township Manager prepare a draft resolution conveying the Township’s thoughts on this matter.
Visit Our Website! www.twpusc.org
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-257-8115 2003*
Meeting Dates Ernest T. Harris At Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1119 2005*
• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Conference Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • Civil Hearing Board meets as needed. • Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.
*Date indicates expiration of term.
24
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
CYBER ’rent USC Police and Youth Steering Committee Sponsor Seminar on Safe Surfing for Kids Instead of having chats in the liv-
ing rooms of our homes, chats now take place in “cyberspace” chat rooms, with 25 million of our children having access to this type of worldwide communication. The Upper St. Clair Police Department and the Youth Steering Committee (YSC) of Upper St. Clair teamed together this past February to offer our citizens a “cyberworld” tour—a world our children are comfortable in and a world we, as parents, may just be learning. Introduced by YSC member and School Board Director Angela Petersen, USC Patrolmen Kevin Kubala and Jonathan Wharton led a Power Point® presentation, held a question and answer period, and introduced a video that presented material on cyberspace responsibility. This seminar led to a fuller understanding of the positives and negatives of the Internet.
Officer Jonathan Wharton reviews the handout material with a seminar attendee.
Benefits of the Information Superhighway The World Wide Web connects millions of people around the globe with an instant means of communication and a powerful tool for information gathering. The resources available on the Internet are constantly growing. Reference information such as news, weather, sports, stock quotes, movie reviews, encyclopedias and airline fares are readily available online. Users can conduct many transactions such as trading stocks, making travel reservations, banking and shopping online. Millions of people communicate through electronic mail (email) with family and friends around the world. Others use the public message boards to make new friends who share common interests. With
this educational and entertainment tool, users can learn about any topic, take college courses, or play a seemingly endless number of computer games with other users or against the computer itself. User “computing” is enhanced by accessing online thousands of shareware and free public domain software titles. Most people who use online services have positive experiences. But, like any endeavor—traveling, cooking, or attending school—there are some risks. The online world, like the rest of society, is made up of a wide array of people. Most are decent, law abiding and respectful, but some may be rude, insulting or even mean and exploitative. Children and teenagers benefit from being online, but they also can be targets of crime and exploitation in this as in any other environment. Trusting, curious and anxious to explore this new world and the relationships it brings, children and teenagers need parental supervision and common sense advice on how to be sure that their experiences in cyberspace are happy, healthy and productive.
Stumbling upon Objectionable Material There are a number of way in which children find objectionable material online. Questionable sites can be innocently found through search engines. Popular search engines include: Yahoo, Excite, Ulta Vista and Google. Search engines are tools used to scour the Internet for desired information, relying on key words or phrases. Depending on the words used for your search, inappropriate websites can be stumbled upon or easily located. For example, if you run a search using the word “girls” nearly 17% of the web pages listed will be pornographic—15% pornographic using the word “boys.” Unsolicited email is another way our children can be exposed to pornography. These emails may have very innocent looking messages in the subject line. If your child opens an email that exposes a
questionable site they should click “back” or “home” on the web browser tool bar and make sure they tell you. Chat rooms, virtual rooms where real time conversations take place, allow for a great degree of anonymity. Most Internet users do not use their real names. If your child is chatting with a cyberspace friend, he may think he is talking to another young person, when in fact he could be holding a conversation with a predatory adult. Bulletin boards and Usenet newsgroups are places on the Internet where people can access and leave messages for anyone to read. Anyone can visit public sites and read or view any posted message or picture. These sites range from regulated to unregulated. Online stalking and harassment occurs when one Internet user follows another to various locations in cyberspace or by sending repeated, unwanted messages. Stalkers use tools such as the AOL “Buddy List” to locate and track the movements of their victims. Additionally stalkers may use a variety of online resources in an attempt to find a potential victim’s address, phone number or other personal information.
Summer 2003
Continued on page 26 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
25
CYBER ’rent Continued from page 25
Practice Internet Responsibility A good strategy for children to be “cybersmart” is to learn how to safeguard themselves from potential serious situations. But, parents need to be smart, too, and help minimize potential risks of their children’s online computer use. There are guidelines families should follow, and parents should enforce when connecting on the Internet: • Set reasonable rules and guidelines for your child’s computer use. Discuss them and post them by the computer. • Keep the computer in a common area where there is a lot of activity and you can frequently view their activity. • Parents should have a working knowledge of the family computer and understand the technology. Review your child’s online activity. Internet activity leaves a trail that is easily checked. • Discuss the Internet in positive terms with your child. It is more productive to share good sites that will pique your child’s interest than to stress the negative destinations. • Don’t be afraid to say “no” when a child’s request to participate in certain online activities appears questionable. • Never allow your child to give out any personal information about himself or your family.
Terry Abbott GRI - CRS
Preferred Realty
412.833.7700 70+ Million in Sales Since 1982
Officer Kevin Kubala discusses how to be “cybersmart.”
• Consider purchasing filtering software products that can be installed on a computer to both limit and monitor computer and Internet use.
So, what is CYBER ’rent Anyway? Our children have developed their own cyberspace language to communicate quickly, and in code, while chatting with their friends online. BRB is a quick way of saying be right back. What do you think LOL is? Would you guess… laugh out loud? How about a ’rent? Well, whether you’ve guessed it yet or not, or may already know what it is, a ’rent is short for parent. So, ’rents, get on “cyberboard” and learn all there is to know about protecting your child and his activity on the family computer. TTFN! To translate—that’s ta ta for now!
The Governor’s Community Partnership The Governor’s Community Partnership for Safe Children (Children’s Partnership) was established in September 1995 by Executive Order in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The goal of the Children’s Partnership is straightforward: to reduce incidents of violence committed by and against children in Pennsylvania. At the heart of this unique partnership is the basic understanding that people—citizens and parents, educators, justice and health officials, business leaders and members of civic, faith and voluntary organizations—are in the most important position to address factors and conditions that increase the likelihood of problem behaviors among young people in communities. Working in collaboration with Cabinet officials in the administration, the diverse composition of the Children’s Partnership represents a renewed commitment to community and government working together to enhance safety for Pennsylvania’s youngest citizens.
Cheryl and David Bayne
40 Years Lending Experience 2 Hour Loan Approval Purchase and Refinance Residential and Commercial No-income Loans All Credit Types
Children’s Partnership Contact Information Address: 3101 North Front Street, P.O. Box 1167, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1167 Phone: Toll-free 1-877-R-PA-KIDS, or 1-717-705-0904 1131 BOYCE ROAD
(724) 942-6933 26
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Fax: 1-717-705-3698 Website: www.cp.state.pa.us
Community Development 412-831-9000, extension 501 www.twpusc.org Just a Reminder! According to the Township of Upper St. Clair Codes: • Lawns need to be maintained at a maximum height of six inches from April through October. • Satellite dishes that exceed 24 inches in diameter require building and electrical permits.
Directory of Important Numbers Police/Fire/Ambulance—Emergency
412-833-7500
724-941-7500
Township Offices are open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday - Friday Administration/Township Manager...412-831-9000, ext. 216
• Vehicles without current inspection or registration must be stored in a completely enclosed structure.
Community Development .................412-831-9000, ext. 501
• Waste receptacles and recycling containers should be placed at the curb line after 6 p.m. Wednesday evening and should be removed before midnight on Thursday, day of pickup.
Recreation..........................................412-831-9000, ext. 256
• Boats, trailers, campers and other types of recreational vehicles must be stored in completely enclosed structures. • Garage sale signs are permitted provided the following regulations are met:
Finance/Tax .......................................412-831-9000, ext. 226 Public Works .....................................412-831-9000, ext. 271 Public Works Hotline Emergency After Hours .................................412-833-7500 Police Administration.......................................412-833-1113
– Signs are located only on the lot where the sale takes place.
Animal Control.....................412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500
– Signs are displayed only on the day of the sale.
Tri-Community South EMS .............................412-831-3710
– Signs do not exceed nine square feet combined.
Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station) ........412-835-0660
– Signs are set back a minimum of ten feet from any side lot line. – Signs are to be placed outside the Township right-of-way. Typically, the right-of-way extends a minimum of 13 feet back from the rear edge of the street or curb.
Library ..............................................................412-835-5540 Township INFO LINE (24-hour access) ..........412-854-5353
– Signs may not obstruct sidewalks. • No structure may be placed within the Township right-of-way except for a driveway or mailbox. A structure is any object having a stationary location on or in lots. The Township right-of-way typically extends back 13 feet from the edge of the road. • A newspaper tube is permitted provided it is attached to the existing mailbox post. The newspaper tube may not be supported by a separate structure such as a post or column. • Realtor open house signs are permitted provided the following regulations are met: – One tent or easel type sign not to exceed four square feet. – Sign permitted to be displayed Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. – Sign must be located a minimum of 13 feet back from the edge of the street or curb. – With permission of property owner, open house signs may be placed on a lot other than the one for sale with the same restrictions above. – No open house signs are allowed on Township owned property. • Building Permits are required for most construction and remodeling projects. Typical projects that require a Building Permit include, but are not limited to sheds, garages, swimming pools, decks, additions, retaining walls, driveway pillars and patio enclosures. Some projects such as patios and driveways require only Zoning Approval. In all cases, when a Building Permit or Zoning Approval is required, a land survey of the property must be submitted as a part of the permit application process. The Township may have a copy of the property survey on file. Please check the Township website at www.twpusc.org for types of projects requiring a permit and the application process. Questions concerning permit requirements can also be directed to the Community Development Department at 412-831-9000.
Global Positioning Systems for the Family
Keep an Eye on Your Teenagers or Spouse as they Travel in the Family Vehicle… with Satellite Technology • Want to know where they have been? • Want to know how fast they have traveled? • Want to know the routes they took? Then contact MarcMen Enterprises, Inc. Your local and exclusive GPS Dealer @ Telephone: 412/914-0958, or E-mail: marcmen@stargate.net • Covert or Overt Applications for $399.00 Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
27
The Community Foundation is Here for You The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair
was organized over ten years ago by residents who were concerned about the future of our community. The foundation is a member of PANO—the Pennsylvania Association of Non-Profit Organizations and is one of a growing number of municipality foundations across the United States. The foundation’s goal is to augment the many advantages to living in Upper St. Clair by providing
Community Day Duck Race—May 17 3:30 p.m.
financial support for special programs and projects that are not funded by tax dollars. These projects fall into four focus areas:
Education & Lifelong Learning To promote educational enrichment opportunities for community residents, educators and students.
Fine & Performing Arts To provide opportunities for all residents of the community to experience lifelong enrichment and enjoyment of the arts.
Recreation & Leisure To enhance lifelong physical and wellness activities that promote individual well-being and community spirit.
Technology & Science
Adopt a duck for $5 and cheer it on as it races down the creek! Ducks are available on the day of the race at the Community Foundation Booth.
To encourage, implement and manage projects and programs that apply science and technology in a way that will improve the quality of life in the community, including applications in the area of information sharing, communication, health and safety. Community Foundation Contact Information Phone: 412-831-1107 • Fax: 412-257-4160 Website: www.mainstreetusc.com/cfusc Email: cfusc@adelphia.net
Community Day Moon Walk The Community Foundation is sponsoring a moon walk for children young and old. Library Parking Lot • Noon–4 p.m. • For your enjoyment and free of charge!
SAAB
Our Reputation Is Built On Service
Website: pandwmotors.com
Our Hallmark has always been Customer Service
“The All-New 9-3 Sport Sedan” Complimentary “Loaner Cars” while vehicle is in for service
1-800-NEW SAAB
Oldest SAAB Dealer in Tri-State Area
Experience the feel of elegant simplicity State of the Art New Showroom
Starting price $25,900 New Location Service by 66 combined years of SAAB Technicians
Sales: 5000 Centre Ave. • Pittsburgh, PA 15213 • 412.325.0267 Hours: Mon-Tues-Thurs: 9am–9 pm • Wed & Fri: 9am–5 pm • Sat: 9am–4pm Service: 4900 Baum Blvd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15213 •412.682.0788
Hours: Mon-Fri: 7am–6pm
A different new SAAB is displayed every month inside South Hills Village.
“People Who Test Drive a SAAB Usually Buy One.” 28
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
The Community Foundation—“Building a sense of community by supporting activities and programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
Flavours An Upper St. Clair Cookbook you just gotta have!
Name Street Address City
State
Telephone
E-mail (optional) Your Order
Zip Code
Quantity
Flavours at $20.05 including tax, shipping and handling per book
Total $
Method of Payment VISA
MasterCard
Check payable to the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Account Number
Mail information and payment to: Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair 2585 Washington Road, Suite 131A Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Expiration Date
Cardholder Name Signature
Photocopies accepted
Internal Medicine Stephanie Colodny, M.D. Ashith Mally, M.D. James Moreci, M.D. Walter Robison, M.D. Anthony Vitelli, M.D. 5000 Waterdam Plaza Drive Suite 120 McMurray, PA 15317 (724) 941-8877
Together let us make your house a home! Barry Austin, D.O. Denise Kaczorowski, M.D. Donald Kushner, M.D. Ruman Purighalla, M.D. Uma Purighalla, M.D. 1050 Bower Hill Road Suite 202 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 (412) 572-6122
533 Washington Avenue Suite 205 Bridgeville, PA 15017 (412) 257-4484
3400 South Park Road Bethel Park, PA 15102 (412) 835-6653 Find out why we’re ‘Preferred’! Visit our informational website at: www.ppcp.org
BUILDING DREAMS from Nancy O’Dell Interiors! Our Interior Design services are the “blue print” phase through the “final touches...” When visiting our studio ENJOY: a Unique Accessories & Furniture a Custom Window Treatments a Fabric & Wallpaper Library
w w w. n a n c y o d e l l i n t e r i o r d e s i g n s . c o m
501 Valley Brook Road • McMurray, PA 15317 • 724-941-5445 Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
29
S OME P EOPLE T HINK A NY R EAL E STATE
Joyce Bayto
Gemma Betz
Norma Bishop
Michelle Bonnar
John Butera
Barbara Cusick
Patience Danna
Kathryn Gerhart
Judy Hlister
Pat La Rosa
Linda Cobb
Upper St. Clair Office 1699 Washington Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15228 412-833-5405
30
Sandy Learish
Fabienne McCague
Jean MacCumbee
Erin McNickle
Helen Moore
Linda Paolino
Toni Petrucci
Stacy Romaniac
Kathy Sekeras
Karen Skrainy
Jim Walsh
Jane Washil
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Paula Stoltz
Summer 2003
Expect More
COMPANY WILL DO. OTHERS E XPECT MORE.
Bonnie Byrnes
Anita Crago
Kathy Donoghue
Kathy Enick
John Geisler
Edith Gidwani
Genie Gooding
Lois Goodrich
Sandy Hanson
Nancy Heffernan
Sydnie Jones
Sue Kelso
Jane Krauth
Maria & Joe Lane
Julie Leslie
Joyce Lewis
Mitch & Angela Mize
Don & Arlene Murray
Shirley Schultz
Mary Ann Wellener
Rt. 19 South/Galleria Office 1539 Washington Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15228 412-344-0500
Thank You, Dr. Pope
Tireless worker, steward of the community, dedicated to his mission and profession. These are words we all aspire to; they are words that we believe describe the sales associates at Coldwell Banker Real Estate. Today and everyday, they are words that describe Dr. William A. Pope, Superintendent of Upper St. Clair Schools since 1989. His storied career leaves a legacy in our community and for that, all of us at Coldwell Banker are grateful.
Summer 2003
Valerie Scenna
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
31
S OME PEOPLE T HINK A NY R EAL E STATE COMPANY WILL DO. OTHERS EXPECT MORE. South Hills Office
1695 McFarland Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15216 • 412-831-9500
Roberta Allen
Hope Bassichis
Paul Bergman
Tade Bua-Bell
Darla D’Anna
Dal Goldstein
Elaine Krelis
Carol Marks
Kris Marra
Nancy Morgan
Michael Wheeler
Sandy Wiedt
Expect More Peters Township Office
3244 Washington Rd. • McMurray, PA 15317 • 412-831-5555
Cindy Demel
32
Gretchen Donnelly
Cheryl Ferri
Marylu Fitzpatrick
Monica Mahla
Frank Roskov
Mona Sutcliffe
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Ginny Macaul
Our Community Garden Boyce Road Gardeners Boyce Road Gardeners, Upper St. Clair’s community gardening group welcomes all.
Green thumbs are not a requirement. The gardening plots are located at the southern end of Boyce Mayview Park at Boyce and Morton Roads. Now in its 27th year, they practice natural or organic gardening. At the Boyce Gardens families can maintain a garden plot of their own, grow healthy food, enjoy a few hours together working, exploring, discovering and interacting with other families whose plots are nearby. The Boyce Gardens promote a sense of community—a place to regain some of the old values that may be missing for many of us these days. The simple, wholesome, good sense of a garden is hard to argue with. To join this active group, call Phyllis Kender, registrar, at 412-221-3118.
President Dolly Hoove
r—“Just like the farme
of Loren the Boyce Garden was really grown in won a blue! it t be Yes, this pumpkin can u Yo t. vice presiden
r in the dell!”
Schoenholtz,
Sandy Feather, Penn State Home Agricultur produce at the annual fair held every Augu e agent, judging the gardeners’ st. Nancy Koehler and Hester Joseph record the winners of blue ribbons. All in fun!
Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
33
Library
Upper St. Clair Library Children’s Summer Reading Program Summer Program Line Up The Library will offer a variety of programs for children of all ages. • Summer Stories for two and one half to five year olds. • Picasso’s Corner combines books and art technique experiences for school-age children. • In Production is our crew of middle and high school volunteers who will be producing a puppet show. • Joanne Kielar the Puppetmaker will visit with her fun stories brought to life with a wide array of puppets. • Dick Stohr will present Yo Yo Fun and Science of Spin. • Gregory Kenney will return in July with a live performance about the Pittsburgh Steelers. Stop at the Children’s Library circulation desk on the third floor for details on our many summer activities. The Library is a happening place for some cool summer fun. Come check us out! Kids who read succeed. It’s a well-documented fact that
reading is a key to success in school and in life. The Library’s summer reading program is an effective way to help children develop a love of reading and to help them get more out of all the Library’s resources. Children benefit greatly from reading often and widely. A child’s repeated experience with good books plays an important role in smoothing the transition from beginning reading to fluent reading. Continued reading throughout the year, with participation in summer reading, plays an important role in creating lifetime readers. Kids of all ages are invited to participate in our Library’s summer reading program. Children who participate will receive their own personal reading record log to record the titles of books they have read. Children who join the summer reading program will receive one ticket for each book read for a weekly drawing of prizes. Young children who are too young to read alone will receive one ticket for each set of ten books they listen to. The Library will conduct weekly prize drawings. The more you read, the greater your chances of winning! There will be six weekly drawings throughout the program. The first drawing will be held Wednesday, July 2. Registration for the summer reading program begins Thursday, June 19. Library staff will begin checking book logs Wednesday, June 25. The reading program ends on August 5 at 8:30 p.m. This gives our youngsters a lot of time over the summer to succeed in reading!
Did you know that you can register for a Library card
online, request a book be held for you, and come in (with proper ID) to pick up both card and book? Requests for books not at our Library (inter-library loan) can also be submitted online. Do you have any comments about our Library services? There is a link on the homepage to a comment form. We are striving to make as many of the Library’s resources as possible available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We invite your feedback in our online survey to tell us what you think of our website and how we can make it better. All programs are free to the public but require advance registration. Registration is in person at the Library. To ensure quality programs, limiting programs by size and age is often necessary.
Stop in the Library or call at 412-835-5540 for more information.
The Library is Open Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m. • Friday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. • Sunday 1–5 p.m. Closed Summer Sundays from Memorial Day–Labor Day 34
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Celebrate Gardening at the Upper St. Clair Township Library Lois Hoop, Library Director Carefree Plants: A Guide to Growing the 200 Hardiest Low-maintenance, Long Living Beauties The title says it all! Beautiful photos help make it easy to choose plants, and clear directions describe just how little it takes to keep them growing well.
The Library has a comprehensive col-
lection of gardening and landscape design resources, which is very popular with Upper St. Clair Library users. In addition to many general books on gardening, there are titles devoted to, among many other topics, annuals or perennials, vegetables, trees, bulbs, even the all American lawn. Other books explore scent, or color, seasonal interest, or flowers and foliage. There are also the practical manuals for organic gardeners, instructions on pruning, and the very important issue of “critter control.” Landscape gardening books explore garden design, planting around decks and patios, and even how to incorporate lighting in the garden. Here is a selection of some of our favorite books. Pennsylvania Gardener’s Guide, by Liz Ball With easy-to-use advice on the top landscape plant choices for Pennsylvania, this book is a popular one for Upper St. Clair residents. Wildflowers of Pennsylvania, by Mary Joy Haywood and Phyllis Testal Monk Co-authored by an Upper St. Clair resident and photographed by members of the Botanical Society of Western Pennsylvania, this stunning book will delight anyone who enjoys plants as much as the authors do. The Plants of Pennsylvania, by Anne Fowler Rhoads and Timothy A. Block This illustrated botany manual will help you identify any native plant found in your back yard.
Choosing Plant Combinations: Beautiful Ways to Mix & Match Color and Form in the Garden This beautifully illustrated book is for gardeners who want to understand how color, shape and texture work together to create a visually stunning design. Healing Gardens, by Romy Rawlings Anyone interested in aromatherapy, feng shui, color therapy, meditation, or herbalism will find this book, at using the garden to promote healing, fascinating. Plants for Small Spaces, by Stephanie Donaldson and Susan Berry Plant any space—walls, corners, doorways, or windowsills. If you have a space, this book will show you how to garden in it. Reinvent Your Garden: Simple Steps for Garden Makeovers Almost every garden needs a little tweaking after a few years, and here’s the book to help you “remodel” your garden. Simple projects and inspiring design ideas will revitalize your garden easily. Tabletop Gardens: Create 40 Intimate Gardens for the Home, No Matter What the Season, by Rosemary McCreary This is not a book about houseplants. These indoor gardens range from tray gardens, to water or gravel gardens to miniature glass house gardens. It is easy to appreciate the simplicity of these very small, unique “gardens.” Water Gardening for the Home Owner: The Education for a Low Maintenance Pond System, by Steven P. Katona Written by the owner of North Hills Water Gardens, this very practical guide will lead you through every step of creating your own pond, waterfall, stream or marsh. Summer 2003
724-222-9121 www.robinphotography.com
Coleman Music Studios Harry G. Coleman Charlotte H. Coleman BM, MS
BS, MM
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Upper St. Clair Studio 1373 McLaughlin Run Rd. (412) 276-3556 (412) 221-2737 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
35
The Church on the Hill St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church Dorothy Mayernik You may have noticed this lovely
white church on the hill as you traveled north on Route 19 going toward the High School. Seeing its glistening gold onion dome and Byzantine-style three-bar cross, perhaps you also wondered what kind of church it is? St. Gregory of Nazianzus Byzantine Catholic Church began in 1971 as a mission, where ten families gathered for worship every Sunday at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Bethel Park. Celebrating the Divine Liturgy for these families was the assistant pastor of Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church in McKees Rocks, Father David Witkowski. Two years later, this small nucleus of faithful petitioned then Archbishop Stephen Kocisko to form a parish community in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Ground was broken in 1973 on a four-acre site at 2005 Mohawk Road in Brookside Farms. Construction of the basement of the building was completed in 1976, and church services were held there for the next ten years. The second story, the church proper, was completed and dedicated in 1986.
Father Bruno Asturi has served as pastor here since 1988. In 1995, he directed a major renovation project with interior decoration in the Byzantine style, including an icon screen and a life-sized icon of Christ and the 12 Apostles. Over the past 30 years, St. Gregory’s has grown from humble beginnings to a beautiful and thriving parish serving 100 families in Upper St. Clair, Bethel 36
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Park, Bridgeville, Castle Shannon, Mt. Lebanon, Peters Township and Scott Township. St. Gregory’s is one of 250 Byzantine Catholic Churches in the United States. Byzantine Catholics are part of the universal Catholic Church, one of 22 churches under the spiritual leadership of Pope John Paul II. Roman Catholics, the Western branch of the Catholic Church, make up the largest percentage of Catholics. Byzantine Catholics are among the 21 other Catholic Churches (including Ukrainian, Hungarian, Melkite, Maronite, Romanian, and others) that follow the spiritual traditions that developed from the 4th century, when Emperor Constantine moved the seat of the imperial government from Rome to the Greek city of Byzantium. Later renamed Constantinople, Byzantium was the center of Christianity in the East. Saints Cyril and Methodius brought Byzantine spirituality and worship traditions to the Slavic people of Eastern Europe in the 9th century. In the 1890s, Slavic immigrants brought their faith with them to America. But what began as an “ethnic” church is now one that embraces multi-ethnicity, as evidenced by the diverse heritage of those who have found a spiritual home at St. Gregory’s and other Byzantine Catholic churches in America and abroad. The interior of St. Gregory’s is true to the traditional beauty and symbolism of the Byzantine Catholic and other Eastern Christian traditions. Sacred images are in the form of icons, a highly stylized and disciplined method of artistic expression. Iconographers use many symbolic elements in order to portray the “spiritual body” rather than a realistic image. The symbolism teaches the viewer about a holy person or a holy moment in
Summer 2003
time and invites prayerful meditation. The most striking feature of St. Gregory’s is the icon screen, joining the sanctuary and nave of the church. It is a symbolic joining of heaven and earth, the created with the Creator, an expression of the unity of God and man. All liturgical items used in worship are rich in symbolism. St. Gregory Church is an active parish family, with a religious education program for grades preschool through high school, a social events committee, financial and fundraising committee, and Bethany Ministry, a ministry of health and healing with outreach to the sick, homebound, and bereaved in the parish. As part of the Byzantine Catholic Archdiocese of Pittsburgh, established by the Roman Pontiff in 1924, St. Gregory’s is under the leadership of the Most Reverend Archbishop Basil Schott. Archbishop Basil succeeded the late Archbishop Judson Procyk in 2002 as the leader of the Byzantine Catholic Church in America. Chancery offices are located in Observatory Hill. Also nearby on Pittsburgh’s North Side is the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius, a highly respected center for the formation of priests, deacons, and cantors since 1950. The seminary is affiliated with Duquesne University and offers credit courses in Eastern theology and chant to interested students. Courses are open to church members and the general public. The members of St. Gregory Church and Father Bruno Asturi extend a welcome to anyone who would like to learn more about our worship and faith traditions. We invite you to join us for Liturgy and fellowship, now that you know a little more about the church on the hill.
Municipal Primary Election—Tuesday, May 20, 2003 Polls Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. (Date subject to change pending Pennsylvania legislative action.)
If you have questions regarding the election, registration or absentee ballots, please call the Allegheny County Elections Department at 412-350-4500 or visit www.twpusc.org. The Township Library and the post office have voter registration forms.
Please exercise your right to vote! Ward
District
Polling Place
1
1
Township Building, Library Multi-purpose Room, Ground Floor - McLaughlin Run Road
1
2
USCVF Department - Morton Road
1
3
Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
1
4
Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
2
1
Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
2
2
2 2
Ward
District
Polling Place
3
1
Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road
3
2
St. Louise de Marillac School - McMurray Road
3
3
Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road
4
1
USCVF Department - Morton Road
4
2
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
4
3
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
Westminster Presbyterian Church - Washington Road
4
4
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
3
Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
5
1
Wesley Institute, Gymnasium - Johnston Road
4
Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
5
2
Wesley Institute, Gymnasium - Johnston Road
5
3
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
Resulting from the March 11, 2003, special election, John Pippy was voted to fill the 37th District Pennsylvania Senate seat vacated by Congressman Tim Murphy. Pippy will assume State Senator duties for the remaining term.
SOUTH HILLS ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES, P.C. Certified American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Office Hours by Appointment Edward G. Kelly, M.D., F.A.C.S. John S. Beachler, M.D. Robert J. Donofrio, M.D. Ph.D. Thomas J. Hasbach, M.D. Eric D. Nabors, M.D. Adult & Pediatric Orthopaedics Arthroscopic Surgery Total Joint Replacement Adult Reconstructive Surgery Scoliosis Kyphoplasty Micro Disc Surgery, Cervical & Lumbar Spine Surgery of the Hand, Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine
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Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
37
USC Volunteer Fire Department USCVFD Firefighters Receive Domestic Preparedness Training Terry Kish While most of us would like to be-
lieve that a terrorist incident could never happen in the South Hills, the events of September 11 have taught us otherwise. Those in emergency management realize that and continually update their skills to be prepared for any situation. Recently 30 members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department (USCVFD) participated in a Responder Awareness Course on the defense against weapons of mass destruction (WMD) sponsored by the Community College of Allegheny County. The primary purpose of the Domestic Preparedness program is to provide assistance to emergency responders in preparing for and responding to terrorist incidents involving NBC (nuclear, biological, or chemical) agents. Developed through a partnership between federal agencies including the Department of Defense as the lead agency, the Department of Energy, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Public Health Service, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the program is targeted to emergency responders and response officials from local, state, and federal agencies. Through training, the “fallacies” of an NBC incident can be debunked, including: • It can’t happen to us: Recent events have obviously shown how all of our lives have been changed forever. • NBC agents are so deadly, the victims will die anyway: NBC agents are not a doomsday machine. In spite of 5000 victims being exposed to Sarin (nerve gas) in the Tokyo subway, only 12 people died. • There is nothing that we can do: Training, recognition, and vigilance allow emergency responders and the public to deal with NBC incidents rationally. By doing so, we eliminate the key objective of terrorism—to produce fear. The training is focused on the NBC difference or “delta” in dealing with the consequences of an NBC terrorist incident. NBC delta builds on the existing knowledge and training that emergency responders have in mass casualty incidents and HAZMAT situations. 38
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Response training class for members of the VFD.
Central to the awareness course is a video, which portrays a release of nerve gas at the “Hartford Mall.” Initially, the video begins with a mall surveillance video of the food court showing someone having what appears to be a seizure. A security guard watching the surveillance video calls 911 and dispatches an ambulance to the suspected victim. In the meantime, lay people trying to assist the victim also become
Dave Kish discusses the presentation slide.
exposed to the agent and are overcome. When the fire department arrives, the chief realizes that he is dealing with some sort of HAZMAT incident when his carbon monoxide monitoring turns up normal. He orders his men out of the scene until a field decontamination and HAZMAT teams can be mobilized. Although fictional, the concept of the video came from actual events in Tokyo, Japan, in March 1995, when the Aum Shinrikyo cult released Sarin gas in a crowded subway. The intent of the video is to make emergency responders aware that they
Summer 2003
must now begin to look at incidents such as explosions, mass casualty incidents, and many other situations in a different light. Emergency responders now must consider all of these responses as potential NBC events. The course also dealt with recognition and planning about how to deal with nuclear and biological threats (bacteria and viruses). Emergency responders are trained to be vigilant for the use of secondary devices. Secondary devices are such things as traditional explosives placed in areas to injure emergency personnel when they are responding to and dealing with the initial incident. The lead instructor for the course was Gary Ciampanelli. Ciampanelli is a certified firefighting instructor, HAZMAT instructor and senior safety specialist at Allegheny General Hospital. Ciampanelli was assisted by David Kish, a member of the USCVFD. Kish is the manager for the LifeFlight team at Allegheny General Hospital and has been actively training the Emergency Response Team at Allegheny General Hospital in WMD awareness and response. Both men participate in Pennsylvania’s Disaster Medical Assistance Team. USCVFD Chief Ray Tomnay stated, “This course serves as a starting point for other domestic training and preparedness activities for our department. Since our first course presented by the Department of Justice in 1997, we have participated in several courses for terrorism and preparation for disasters. Our goal is to provide the best training for our firefighters so that they may provide our residents with the best service available.”
The Fireman’s Ball
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Dan Barr enjoys this soc
Upper St. Clair Volunteer Firefighters celebrated Valentine’s Day in a special
way this year. Garbed in dress uniform at The Grand Residence at Upper St. Clair, they escorted some of the residents to a Valentine’s Day social event on February 12. The residents had a special Valentine’s Day dinner, and then were escorted by the firefighters and some of the staff members to a separate area for entertainment by Frank LaVelle. The evening concluded with a dessert buffet. Jim Viola, social director at The Grand Residence, said that while the fire department has been there for “official” calls in the past, this was the first time they were there for a social event. “It was such a great gesture,” he said. Viola thanked the firefighters for their quick response to sprinkler breaks experienced by The Grand Residence the past two winters. “They take the time to reach out to others all the time,” said Viola, “so we wanted to reach out to them.”
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Valentine’s Day social. Greg Gerlach helps celebrate a
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Community Flea Market—Saturday July 12 An annual event since 1991
Upper St. Clair High School Stadium Parking Lot 8 a.m.—3 p.m. Pre-register early for space reservation (18’X18’)—$6 Contact the Recreation Department at 412-831-9000, extension 256 now! Summer 2003
email: pltre@aol.com www.wellingtonrealestatepa.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
39
Operation Stars and Stripes— American Legion South Hills Village was a patriotic place to be on Sunday,
March 23, 2003, when American Legion volunteers asked participants to touch a flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capitol building and send a short written message to the servicemen and women serving in local military units. This flag, which hung for the crowd to see and touch, was presented to Congressman Tim Murphy by an honor guard from the University of Pittsburgh’s Air Force ROTC. It was then presented to the 171st Airlift Wing of the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Coraopolis. In March this unit deployed 500 men and women to the Middle East. Have you seen Blue Star flags hanging from homes in our community? They denote a loved one, associated with someone in that home, is serving our country in combat. Please remember them.
Tim Murphy with USCHS student Katie Mucha. Veterans of the Bethel Memorial VFW Post 760 talk with Congressman Murphy.
Our Neighborhood Remembers Mr. Rogers Fred Rogers, who invited millions of
children to be his neighbor as host of the public television show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” for more than 30 years, died of cancer on February 27, 2003. He was 74. Rogers had been diagnosed with stomach cancer sometime after the holidays. From 1968 to 2000, Rogers, an ordained Presbyterian minister, produced the show at Pittsburgh public television station WQED. The final episode, taped in December 2000, aired in August 2001. Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) affiliates continue to air back episodes of the show. Rogers composed his own songs for the show and began each episode in a set made to look like a comfortable living room, singing “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood,” as he donned his well known zip-up cardigan and sneakers. “I have really never considered myself a TV star,” Rogers said in a 1995 interview. “I always thought I was a neighbor who just came in for a visit.” His message remained simple—telling his viewers to love themselves and others. On each show, he would take his audience on a magical trolley ride into the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, where his puppet creations would interact with each other and adults. Rogers did much of the puppet work and voices himself. Fred Rogers taught children how to share and deal with anger and about many everyday concerns our children have. “We 40
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
live in a world in which we need to share responsibility” he said in 1994. “It’s easy to say ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.” Rogers came out of broadcasting retirement last year to record public service announcements for PBS telling parents how to help their children deal with the anniversary of the September 11 attacks on America. “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” won four Emmy Awards, plus one for lifetime achievement. He was given a George Foster Peabody Award in 1993, in recognition of 25 years of beautiful days in the neighborhood.
Summer 2003
The show’s ratings peaked in 198586 when about eight percent of all U.S. households with televisions tuned in. Ratings dropped to about 2.7 percent, or 3.6 million people, by the 1999-2000 season when children began opting for action cartoon programming. Rogers continued with his peaceful message. Rogers was born 30 miles southeast of Pittsburgh in Latrobe. Early in his career, Rogers was an unseen puppeteer in “The Children’s Corner,” a local show he helped launch at WQED in 1954. In seven years of unscripted, live television, he developed many of the puppets used in his later show, including King Friday XIII and Curious X the Owl. Rogers, our friend in the neighborhood, is survived by his wife, Joanne, a concert pianist; two sons; and two grandsons. A family service was held in Latrobe, where Rogers was buried. One of Rogers’ red sweaters hangs in Washington, D.C.’s Smithsonian Institution for all to see and remember him by. A House of Representatives resolution was passed in March honoring the legacy of Fred Rogers and his dedication to creating a more compassionate, kind, and loving world for children and adults. Congressman Tim Murphy (PA-18) is the majority manager of this resolution and Representative Mike Doyle (PA-14), who sponsored the bill, will be the House minority manager.
Hockey Leads Two Locals to Ivy League Schools
HERMAN J. HEYL FLORISTS
Jim Lachimia Dylan Reese and Grant Lewis have a lot
in common. They are both seniors at Upper St. Clair High School. They are both defensemen on the highly successful Pittsburgh Forge Junior-A amateur hockey club. And next season, they will both be playing NCAA Division I hockey for prestigious Ivy League institutions. Reese committed to Harvard University in early October after considering offers from many schools, including Yale, Boston University and Michigan State. About a week later, Lewis announced his decision to continue his education and his hockey career at Dartmouth College, leaving an offer from Cornell University on the table. Harvard is located just outside the heart of Boston and Dartmouth is just a couple hours away in Hanover, New Hampshire. That means Reese and Lewis won’t be far apart when they leave Pittsburgh. The two met when they were five years old and have been best friends ever since. Naturally, they can’t wait for the first time they square off as collegians.
off Grant Lewis fends
opponent.
“I knew from the beginning of last year the Ivy League was where I wanted to go,” said Reese, who has a 3.7 GPA and plans to study economics at Harvard. “Some doors opened up for me, and now it’s unbelievable that Grant’s going to join me. It will be great playing against him next year. Hopefully, we’ll both be in the line-up when our teams play one another. I’m sure there will be some trash-talking going on. It will be interesting to see how things turn out.” “Almost every day we talk about how great it will be to play against each other,” said Lewis, a 3.5 GPA senior who will likely major in engineering at Dartmouth. “We’re kind of starting a little rivalry of our own. We both keep track of Harvard and Dartmouth’s hockey statistics. We’re going to two Ivy League schools where a rivalry already exists. With us growing up together, it’s going to be great.” Although the two young men have many similarities, they have taken different paths to get to where they are today. Reese is more of an offensive defenseman than Lewis, and much has been expected of him throughout his youth hockey career. The 6'2" Lewis is bigger than Reese, at 6'0", and more of a stay-at-home type
(412) 833-3833
2516 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Dylan Reese
passes the pu
ck.
defenseman. Lewis has made great strides as a hockey player the past two seasons, having matured physically. “There’s no doubt Dylan has been one of the leaders, or one of the go-to guys on every team he’s ever played on,” Forge head coach John Becanic said. “But Grant was a late developer, and his size had a lot to do with that. He was basically a boy in a man’s body. Eventually, his abilities caught up with his size, and I think that happened rather quickly over the last year and a half.” Reese and Lewis have been paired together on defense with the Forge quite a bit this past season, which is one of the reasons Pittsburgh has remained among the top teams in the North American Hockey League. “They’re friends off the ice and enjoy playing together, so they have a chemistry before the puck is even dropped,” Becanic said. “They’re both still young men, obviously, but they’re mature for their age and they know what they want in life. They’re goal-oriented, and I think when you’re goal-oriented you tend to lead your life in a different manner. They’re much more focused than the average 18 or 19-year-old.” Joe Gaul coached both Reese and Lewis— albeit at different times—when they played for the Pittsburgh Hornets Midget AAA team. Gaul believes the friendship between the two has enabled them to become the outstanding young players they are today. “If Grant was playing second fiddle to Dylan in their early years, Dylan never made him feel that way,” Gaul said. “And Grant never treated it like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m lucky to hang around Dylan.’ The mutual respect they have for each other allowed Dylan to be comfortable and Grant to blossom and not feel inferior.” One pushed the other back and forth even if they didn’t mean to, so it’s kind of interesting how they’ve evolved. If you know both kids, you have to be happy for them because they’re quality kids, and they both work very hard. Their commitment and passion for the game has grown as their talents have grown. Obviously, they’re elite level players now. Summer 2003
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Summer 2003
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Where Have They Gone? Where has mommy or daddy gone? Will they be back today? I’m told they have gone off to war, To a land quite far away. Will they be returning very soon, So we may go out to play? When children ask these questions, The answers are hard to say. Your moms and dads are soldiers, Always ready to go and fight, They want to keep all America free, By making everything just right. In times of war bad things happen, The cost of freedom is so high. There will always be some wounded Unfortunately…some will die. For brave ones that do return Things will never be the same, Parts of them have been left behind During the ever fiendish game. Let’s hope all moms and dads return And put a lasting end to wars. Let’s see smiles on all the children When they open up their doors. —Jay Walsh, Custodian at Eisenhower Elementary
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Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
43
Friendship Village
Tums
AARP
Preparation H
Lawrence Welk
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A Day of Visiting and Learning Recently, Lynn Walcoff, the coor-
dinator of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, invited me to spend the afternoon with some of our Township’s senior citizens. On a Wednesday in February I arrived at the USC Recreation (Rec.) Center where I was introduced to Alice Lesica, former president of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, as well as other members of the organization. Unfortunately, John Lesica, current president, was unable to attend that afternoon because of a broken foot. This group meets regularly every Wednesday at the Rec. Center. I interviewed Alice for the story about her 50 years of marriage to John and she was also kind enough to answer questions about this very lively group of seniors. Other group members quickly cleaned up their lunch dishes and got ready for the Origami craft presentation. When the colorful paper to make the flowers was passed out, I carefully selected a piece and attempted to make a
The Golden Years
Samantha Reefer
flower. There were instructions on how to make the flowers, but you see, I have two left hands with these kinds of activities. After observing the patience of the seniors and the encouragement and kindness between one another, I attempted the folds and finally had a finished product—one very pretty flower! Around 3 that afternoon, the luncheon and activity for the week was over. I stayed a while longer to thank Alice and Lynn for answering all my questions and inviting me to their meeting. The United Senior Citizens Group of Upper St. Clair is lucky to have Lynn Walcoff as the coordinator behind the scenes of this group. Lynn prepares and/or caters the food for all of the Wednesday meetings and supplies arts and crafts entertainment for each meeting. Her generous and sincere efforts shine forth when seeing how much this very lively group enjoys themselves and each other.
Pittsburgh to Host the 2005 Senior Olympics Approximately 12,000 senior athletes (age 50 and older) from across the United States will compete in 18 different sports at venues throughout Pittsburgh and Allegheny County during the 15-day event from June 3–18, 2005.
If you have a 2005 calendar, mark it now! If not, stay tuned to our Senior Site as we keep you informed! Silver Card
Samantha Reefer, our USC
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, the Recreation and Leisure Services Department offers for your consideration the Silver Card. Holders of this card are entitled to free admittance to the three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities and family swim at the High School pool. Any resident age 62 and retired or age 65 with no re stric tions is eligible for the Silver Card Pro gram. Applications are available at the Recreation Department, so stop in and ask for your Silver Card!
44 44
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003 Summer 2003
High School Community Based Learning intern for this issue of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, is a senior herself—a senior in high school, that is! Samantha enjoyed a Wednesday afternoon at the USC Recreation Center meeting our seniors and writing the Senior Site.
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Whoop-DeDo @92
Local Couple Celebrates Fifty Blessed Years Samantha Reefer
John Paul Lesica, cur-
rent President of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair and Josephine Alice Lesica, are childhood sweethearts who recently celebrated their 50 th wedding anniversary on November 22. They grew up together on Staten Island, New York, attended different grade schools, and then dated while in high school. After graduation in 1948, John enlisted in the New York National Alice and John mark their beginning together. Guard and entered St. Peter’s College. Shortly after John’s enrollment into college, Alice graduated from high school in 1949 and began working for her father in his NAPA Auto Parts Agency, which to this day is still in business on Staten Island. On November 22, 1952, Alice Archer and John Lesica were married in St. Mary the Assumption Church in Staten Island, New York. By 1964, they had been blessed with four daughters (Mary Alice in ’53; Laura Ann in ’55; Elizabeth Ellen in ’57 and Kathleen Amy in ’64), who’ve grown into successful young women. Mary Alice, the oldest, is a dental hygienist in Burke, Virginia, and is married to U.S. Navy Captain John Woodburn (retired). Laura Ann is an import/export coordinator at Western Lithograph in Jacksonville, Texas, and is married to David Corley. Elizabeth is a registered dietitian and food service director with Sodexho and is married to William Mueller. They reside locally in Bridgeville. Kathleen Amy is a senior executive pharmaceutical representative with GlaxoSmithKline and is married to William Heinz. They also live nearby in Lawrence.
Visit the Recreation Center on Community Day— Saturday, May 17th for our bake sale and bingo.
In 1971, Alice and John moved their family to Upper St. Clair where John joined Calgon as the manager of purchasing. Alice became a real estate agent. That same year, John graduated from the Armor Officer School at Fort Knox, Kentucky, while Alice volunteered at Kane Hospital for several years after retiring from real estate. In 1975, John graduated from the Command and General Office Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and in February 1985, John was promoted to Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He later retired after 38 years of service in the National Guard and Reserve. In 1985, Alice joined the Purchasing Management Association of Pittsburgh as the secretary and treasurer. By 1995, both Alice and John retired from the Purchasing Management Association. Alice and John continue to live in Upper St. Clair as active residents of the community. With the start of the 21st century Alice became the first female president of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair organization. John recently succeeded her as president in April 2002, and will continue his presidency through 2004.
Alice and John tod
ay.
Gold Card
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, apply now for your Gold Card. See and enjoy drama and musical performances, exciting athletic events, and other activities, courtesy of the Upper St. Clair School District. If you are a resident, 62 years of age or older, just stop by the School District receptionist desk and ask for your Gold Card! It’s a great way to experience your community.
Summer 2003 Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors
Down to Business at Upper St. Clair School District Jim Render
Mark G. Trombetta, MD President 412-831-8543 2003*
David E. Bluey Vice President 412-835-6145 2005*
Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2003*
Albert E. Ferrara, Jr. 412-835-2709 2005*
Dina J. Fulmer 412-831-8664 2003*
Jeffrey W. Joyce 412-257-1704 2003*
Clark R. Nicklas 412-831-1027 2005*
Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2003*
William M. Sulkowski, DMD 412-221-9516 2003* *Date indicates expiration of term. 46
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Most people who are interested in the accomplishments of
the Upper St. Clair School District have often read on the pages of this magazine or in area newspapers about the many successes of our students, faculty and administrators. Many of you know about the Excellence in Education awards that each of our schools has earned in national competition. Teachers and principals have gone to Washington D.C. to receive these commendations from the Secretary of Education. Flags fly proudly at each school to showcase that the federal government is aware that we have gone well above minimum standards to educate our young people. Scholarship is not a “word” in Upper St. Clair—it’s an attitude. Our athletes and our teams excel in local, regional, state, and occasionally even national competition. Musicians, vocalists and thespians are nonpareil in their presentations. We boast about our successes and the local press reports on the many accomplishments of our School District. This article, though, will be about the “other” side of education. There is an economic side of our school system that is quite similar to running a business—a forty-two million dollar per year cash flow business. This takes expertise—leaving little room for error. We cannot use an eraser for a half a million dollar accounting “adjustment” each fiscal quarter. The nine-member Board of School Directors, an independent annual audit, and concerned taxpayers make sure that money received and money spent is accounted for properly. Jane Sierzega is the School District’s Director of Business and Finance. Quite simply, she oversees the business office operations. She is responsible for developing the budget and presenting it to the Board. Once the budget is adopted it must be managed and monitored throughout the year. She is also the purchasing agent for all school related items—books to brooms. It’s a job that never ends and is never put to rest. Jane must also be prepared to meet with Township officers on tax matters. This includes being available to answer taxpayer questions regarding millage, assessments and payment of taxes. Jane is a graduate of West Virginia University and received her master’s degree at Virginia Tech. She obtained her certified public accountant (CPA) certificate after attending the University of Maryland. She has worked in both the public and private (insurance) sectors before coming to the Upper St. Clair School District, where she is completing her seventh year. In those years, we have continually been involved in major building renovation projects that she financially oversees and supervises. There is, however, light at the end of the tunnel as far as renovation is concerned. Bond debt service payments at roughly four million per year will continue and must be factored into the budget equation.
While all these duties are being addressed, she must consistently keep tabs on the child accounting system used by the state as funding to school districts is partly based upon the number of students enrolled. Fortunately, Jane has help and she likes to boast about her “team.” The most senior member of the business office is Mary Bonczek who has been with the School District for almost 16 years. She is in charge of processing payroll. Buses can be late, the mail can be late, homework can be turned in late, but Mary can never have the luxury of being late. She must also file all state and federal reports connected with payroll. Considering all full-time employees, part-time employees and substitutes, Mary issued 937 W2 forms last year. Most residents would not guess that we have so many people that must be paid for their work. Bonnie Thomas is the secretary of the business office and the treasurer for the District. Her duties include handling cash receipts and banking activities. Bonnie, a 12-year full time employee, also assists with accounting and payroll data input. It’s Bonnie’s job to keep Jane on schedule and to field calls from vendors, residents, news reporters and inquisitive taxpayers. Nancy Klein, also a 12-year veteran of the business office, is in charge of the bidding process for school supplies. Purchase orders and bill paying functions all cross her desk. She is the person in the middle and is between the heads of various School District departments and vendors who have submitted bids. Patience and diplomacy are required and necessary to function in this position. She has both. In her “spare” time, Nancy handles all the bulk mailings. Becky Berquist, the new kid on the block for the past five years, is considered a part-time employee. In examining her duties, she must be a “volunteer” some of the time each month. Her many duties include preparing a monthly financial statement and report for the Board. She does a monthly budget analysis for School District administrators as well as files all state and federal financial papers including grant reports. Becky completes an annual state financial report and she must meet standards for a new reporting project called “Your Schools; Your Money.” You can access this information through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s website at www.pde.state.pa.us. Becky does special analysis projects needed for
Left to right, front row: Nancy Klein, Mary Bonczek and Bonnie Thomas. Back row: Becky Berquist and Jane Sierzega.
the budget when requested by the Director of Finance. She is also the coordinator of the annual audit. Given the fact that almost 80% of the budget goes to fixed costs like salaries and health benefits, and given that Upper St. Clair does not have a lot of commercial real estate, and that less than 1% of our
resources come from the federal government, the Office of Business and Finance is under a constant microscope. Jane and her team deserve a commendation for doing a tough job in a high profile school district and for doing it with a great deal of professionalism. This reporter boasts of their accomplishments!
School District Central Office Administration To reach personnel call 412-833-1600, press 1, enter extension number followed by the # sign. Administrator
Secretary/Email Address
Extension
Dr. William A. Pope ........................................................ Mary Ann Stabile ............................ 2201 Superintendent of Schools mstabile@uscsd.k12.pa.us M. Jane Sierzega .............................................................. Bonnie Thomas ............................... 2266 Director of Finance and Business bthomas@uscsd.k12.pa.us Robert Obrosky ............................................................... Doreen Leech ................................... 2211 Director of Technology dleech@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jean Toner ........................................................................ Debi Bakowski ................................ 2286 Director of Human Resources dbakowski@uscsd.k12.pa.us Eloise Stoehr.................................................................... Phyllis Feller.................................... 2283 Supervisor of Pupil Services pfeller@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky ........................................................ Phyllis Feller ................................... 2283 Director of Special Education pfeller@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. John Bornyas............................................................. Cheryl Ellison.................................. 2202 Director of Education/Instructional Principal (7-12) cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Patricia Dunkis ......................................................... Cheryl Ellison.................................. 2202 Director of Education/Instructional Principal (K-6) cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us Charles Samek................................................................. Karen Powers .................................. 3450 Director of Transportation kpowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us School District Building Administration
Dr. Terrence Kushner ................................... Principal of the High School Joe DeMar ..................................................... High School Assistant Principal/Dean of Students Dr. Mike Ghilani .......................................... High School Assistant Principal/Dean of Students Dr. William Rullo ......................................... Director of High School Guidance Dr. Timothy Steinhauer ............................... Principal of Fort Couch Middle School Kevin Deitrick .............................................. Administrative Intern at Fort Couch Karen Brown ................................................ Acting Principal of Boyce Middle School Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf ................................... Principal of Baker Elementary School Mark Miller ................................................... Principal of Eisenhower Elementary School Beverly Krill .................................................. Principal of Streams Elementary School
General USC School District website is www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
47
No Child Left Behind Barbara L. Bolas, Upper St. Clair School Board Director
A little over a year ago, President
George W. Bush signed the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) greatly increasing the federal government’s role in the operation of local school districts. The nearly 1000page document imposes new obligations on public schools, creating a standard accountability system for public education. This new act not only affects students served by federal programs, but all students attending public schools. NCLB requires changes that affect nearly 50 million school students in 80,000 diverse community schools in 14,500 school districts. The new provisions include the following categories: academic, accountability and consequences, staff qualifications, policy implications, student privacy, parental involvement and notification, school choice options and funding flexibility. The act generates a powerful correlation between standards, assessment, and accountability. The responsibility for standards and testing remain at the state level. The legislation requires that states which receive Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) funding have rigorous content and achievement standards in place immediately for mathematics, language arts, and reading. Standards for science must be in place by the 2005-06 school year. The annual assessment component must be aligned with the scope, content, and depth of the state standards. These assessment results, reported as advanced, proficient and basic, must reflect what students need to know and do with the subject matter. This reporting system was designed to give parents and the public a better assessment of how students and schools are performing in lieu of a numerical rating. 48
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Students are not compared or ranked with one another (i.e. norm referenced). Instead, results are measured according to the state standards of achievement (i.e. criterion referenced). Additionally, a minimum of 95% of the students must participate in the assessment, including 95% of the students in each of the four at-risk categories (major racial and ethnic groups, limited English proficiency students, students with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged students). The accountability component falls into two categories. One is the public report card involving all school districts and schools. The report card requirements include: academic performance data, school district and school comparisons, qualifications for teachers in each school, reasons for failing to meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) criteria, and actions taken to solve the problem. AYP is the foundation of the program. Each year specific achievement goals must be reached in academic areas by specific groups of students. In each successive year the percentage of students who must reach AYP will rise. In addition, the pool of students from which the numbers of rate increase will be drawn smaller. Therefore, the students representing the percentage of those needed to raise their achievement level will be from the most academically challenged. Eventually, failure of a specific group of students to meet the AYP requirement could result in a school being identified for intervention by the State Department of Education. School districts have specific activities they must be engaged in early on to meet the requirements of the law. These include determining whether or not the students are making AYP, decisions about the development of school report cards taking into consideration community input, and review of local school board policies and how to bring them in line with the law, are among some of the provisions that will need careful attention. Locally, NCLB requirements have already changed some of our procedures. For example, how we apply for awards such as the Blue Ribbon School award. Previously any school district could apply for recognition. Under the new regulations, schools must be nominated to submit an application. Also, our middle school philosophy
Summer 2003
regarding curriculum content had Upper St. Clair School District placing elementary certified teachers to teach in grades seven and eight allowing for an interdisciplinary team approach to instruction. The new requirements state that teachers must be certified in the specific subject areas they are teaching. Our approach has been a cross curricula one. One remedy could be for our teachers to take a test to achieve another certification level. However, we need to determine if these specific certification requirements will change how we align our previously successful curriculum and teaching strategies in Upper St. Clair. Despite its good intentions, some educators point out that the implementation of NCLB may have unforeseen impact on local school districts. Focusing on schools that truly need the assistance and letting those districts with high student achievement continue to operate as they have might have been a better option. In a relevant article in Harvard Magazine regarding NCLB, it was noted “test-based accountability without substantial investments in internal accountability and instructional improvement is unlikely to elicit better performance from low-performing students and schools.� Furthermore, there is concern the NCLB Act lacks clear definition and will be the basis for even more litigation than we are currently dealing with from the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). In summary, although it has areas of concern, the No Child Left Behind Act places a sharper focus on raising student achievement on a national level. Local school board members, teachers and administrators are now being challenged to implement the new law with increased accountability for their actions.
Reflection Program Entry Shows Courage The PTA-sponsored Reflections Program challenges students to create art
that supports a specific theme. This year’s theme was “Signs of Courage,” prompting students to express themselves through various media. Students submit their entries in one of four artistic areas: literature, music composition, photography or visual arts. The works are critiqued against others in the same grade division, and judged within appropriate developmental age and skill level. Entries are first judged at the local school district level, then regionally, statewide and finally nationally. USC received 171 student entries—nine receiving recognition at the district level and eight moving on to the state level of judging. All USC students who participated in Reflections were honored at a reception in March. Emily Elliot, daughter of Mary Jo and Jack Elliot of Upper St. Clair, attends second grade at Baker Elementary. She competed in the Reflections program with her “Signs of Courage” literary enEmily Elliot try. She interviewed her uncle, Tom Cunningham, for the information. Tom was recently on assignment in Afghanistan filming U.S. Special Forces in their fight against terrorism. He filmed the new ABC series, “Profiles from the Front Line,” which showed soldiers completing daily duties—cooking for the troops to refueling helicopters in mid-air. The Pentagon and the Department of Defense cooperated with the production of the show.
Emily’s uncle with his video equipment and a group of Afghan soldiers.
Tom has worked on several shows including “COPS” and “The Amazing Race” on CBS. He lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, and has spoken to students in Upper St. Clair when in the area. My uncle is a professional cameraman. He just came back from Afghanistan where he saw many signs of courage. My uncle saw brave people everyday. He saw… American soldiers leaving their own families, men heading into unknown danger to protect others, soldiers passing out blankets to people on cold nights, Green Berets organizing baseball games for Afghan children and guarding them while they played, a brave officer falling on a grenade to save his men, Afghan fathers searching for water for their families, mothers waiting in long lines at food distribution centers, barefoot children walking on cold, rocky ground, families huddled together in mud huts in freezing weather, groups of orphans living together, missionaries serving as teachers, Afghan girls going to school for the first time ever, brave children getting ready for surgery, doctors struggling to save lives, everyone living in constant fear of violence. These are just a few of the signs of courage my uncle saw. It made me see that not only soldiers have to be brave in wartime, but so do men and women, and even children. I am proud of my uncle and I think that he is brave to travel to dangerous places to bring back pictures of the people who show signs of courage everyday.
Congratulations to those recognized in the following categories at the district level: Photography —Primary —Middle
Scout Rieder, Eisenhower, third place Matt Boyas, Boyce, fourth place
Literature
—Primary —Intermediate —Middle
Emily Elliott, Baker, first place Brian Rollick, Baker, third place Daniel Capone, Fort Couch, first place Michelle Graminski, Fort Couch, fourth place
Music
—Intermediate —Middle
Christie Parkinson, Baker, fifth place Heidi Crossley, Boyce, honorable mention
Visual Arts
—Intermediate
Christie Parkinson, Baker, first place (placed second at the state level) Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
49
WPIAL Basketball Tournament Jim Render
USC Lady Panthers celebrate WPIAL title with Dr. Pope.
The Upper St. Clair High School boys’ and girls’ basketball teams attempted to repeat
baugh (24) Jamie Allen ntrol. co takes
history and do something no other quad A school has ever done once, let alone repeat. Both of these teams attempted to win the 2003 WPIAL championships concurrently. They accomplished this feat in 1996 under boys’ coach Danny Holzer and the girls’ mentor, Ernie Koontz. A big crowd was on hand at the A. J. Palumbo Center at Duquesne University on Saturday, March 1 for the double header. Our girls played the first game against a favored Oakland Catholic team, coached by Upper St. Clair resident Susie McConnell-Serio. The Lady Panthers
Fort Couch Displays Appreciation Fort Couch students created a display of
shields to honor friends and family who are currently serving in the military. Each shield reveals the name and military position of that person who is serving our government in this capacity. At the school board of directors meeting in March, Fort Couch students spoke to the board about their display saying, “Seventy-three friends and family members currently are serving in the military reserves or are on active duty.” May we all thank them. 50
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
prevailed with a huge amount of heart, led by Kyra Kaylor who scored 12 of her 22 points in the fourth quarter. She also contributed some key rebounds that broke the back of Oakland Catholic. With Oakland leading 4544, Julie Rectenwald hit a three-point shot that gave us the lead with three minutes and 23 seconds to play in the game. Oakland never scored again, and the Lady Panthers claimed the championship, Kyra Kaylo r (44) goes 55-45. Also in this game, senior for two. Jamie Allenbaugh never missed a shot, going five-for-five from the field and two-for-two at the foul line. All of our ladies were very poised and determined—a true team effort to give USC the victory. Kyra said it best when she said, “In 2002 we (the team) hoped we could beat Oakland Catholic, but in 2003 we knew we could win!” To get to the finals, the girls beat Butler on a jump shot at the buzzer by Allenbaugh and then beat North Allegheny with just two seconds remaining in the game on a driving lay up by Rectenwald—both exciting games. The boys’ team took the floor while the Lady Panther celebration was still in progress. The Panther boys were readying to play a very athletic team from Penn Hills High School. It was a very emotional and hard-hitting game. There was a lot of contact in a game that is not designed to have any, according to the rules of basketball. Our guys suffered their first season loss in Pennsylvania, losing a close game, 51-41. The Panthers played tough but couldn’t get the shots to go down in the fourth quarter. The Penn Hills Knight brothers, Byron and Devon, were mostly responsible for our loss, as they combined for 35 points, including a momentum-changing slam-dunk by Byron with only a minute left to play.
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St. Clair Hospital Medical Suites
Sean Lee (33) slam dunk!
Our 6'10" Andrew Atman played “big” as he grabbed 11 rebounds and blocked eight shots. Sophomore Sean Lee was “everywhere” on both offense and defense in his first TV prime time game. All team members gave an outstanding effort—showing great discipline and class in defeat. To arrive at the final game, the boys beat Baldwin for the third time this season and then beat a very scrappy team from Hempfield for the right to play Penn Hills in the championship round. Although the boys didn’t get the gold medal, it was a historic night in the annals of Upper St. Clair basketball.
Comprehensive health care services for your family and business: Family Practice Medical Associates South (Southpointe) Fatigati-Nalin Associates (Bridgeville) LabLink Laboratory services Medical Diagnostics X-rays, EKGs, Bone Density testing, Ultrasound SHORE Physical, Occupational, Speech and Massage Therapies St. Clair OB-GYN Associates, Inc. (Southpointe) Occupational Medicine Work injury, pre-employment physicals and drug screening Travel Medicine Pre-travel medical consultation, vaccinations
St. Clair Hospital Medical Suites An affiliate of St. Clair Hospital
St. Clair Hospital Medical Suite at Bethel Park (across from South Hills Village) 2000 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 (412) 344-6388 or (412) 835-7100
Three convenient locations Services vary by location
St. Clair Hospital Medical Suite at Bridgeville (in the Chartiers Valley Shopping Center) 1025 Washington Pike Route 50 Bridgeville, PA 15107 (412) 344-6600, x4050
St. Clair Hospital Medical Suite at Southpointe (Route 79S, Exit 48) 501 Corporate Drive Canonsburg, PA 15317 (724) 746-3369
w w w. s t c l a i r. o r g r the basket.
Dale Meinbrese (15) postions unde
No appointment for general x-ray or lab services. Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
51
Eisenhower Elementary “Team Cool Kids”
LIFE is the most importan t GAME -
Barbara Devine
MOST KIDS
DON'T USE DRUGS
PLAY IT W
ELL
Fourth level students at Eisenhower participated in the
Pittsburgh Penguins/Coca Cola Team Cool Kids anti-drug school program this past winter. The goals of the program were threefold—create awareness of drug, alcohol and cigarette smoking issues among the participating students and the whole student population; focus on the positive elements of children’s lives; and most importantly, have fun! All of the expectations for the program were exceeded. Each of the participating 16 children was photographed wearing the uniform of an activity they participate in or photographed playing an instrument. A positive message about celebrating life, or saying “no” to drugs, alcohol or cigarettes was created. The photos were then enlarged to 11"x17" color posters and hung at the brand new entry way at Eisenhower. Everyday the entire Eisenhower student body passes these powerful messages at least twice a day. Teachers utilized the messages in classroom lessons. Eisenhower principal, Mark Miller, arranged a trivia contest with fourth level students based on the messages of the posters. Eisenhower placed fourth overall in the competition and every Eisenhower fourth I get grader was rewarded with a K IC aK Pittsburgh Penguins Team out of Cool Kids pocket folder. In addition, the school was life presented with a hockey stick autographed by Upper St. Clair resident Johan Hedberg.
Fourth level students who participated, along with their activity and slogan are: Harris Beck, soccer “Personally, I prefer to smoke defenders.” Colin Burns, skiing “The mountains are the only high I ever want.” Emily Chakurda, soccer goalie “My goal is to live drug free.” Alex Checca, violin “Don’t fiddle your life away with drugs.” Hanna Cowley, lacrosse “Smoke your opponents, not cigarettes.” Drew English, tennis “My racquet is tennis, not cigarettes.” Brooke Gooderham, electric guitar “I pick to live my life without drugs or alcohol.” Garrett Kennell, lizard “Second hand smoke hurts all living things.” Alex Leonardi, art club “Color your life drug free.” Eddie Lisivick, football “You can tackle anything!” Mario McNemar, karate “I get a kick out of life.” Anna Mittleman, swimming “Dive into life.” Sarah Nadler, gymnastics “If someone offers you drugs, tell them to split.” Drew Newman, baseball “Being drug-free is a grand slam!” Sean Polosky, hockey “Drugs are the surest way to the penalty box.” Geetha Reddy, reading “I’m hooked on books.”
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Odyssey of the Mind Kelly Hanna
Upper St. Clair took the Regional
Odyssey of the Mind competition by storm this year at Moon Area School District. We had 13 teams compete—eight more than last year! Three teams continued to state competition in Altoona on April 12. They are: Boyce team—Will Fennel, Jess Gray, Aditya Kumar, Dan Parkinson, Mathi Rengasamy and Eric Seech, coached by Dee Gray. Fort Couch team—Lucas Wilson, Nicholas Klos, David Bucholtz, Raymond VanCleve, Ali Klos, Noah Simmons and Johnny Simons, coached by Ed Wilson. This team placed first at regional competition. USCHS team—Rob Rankin, Gaby Koury, David Hauge, Ben White, Leslie Julius, Aaron Rothey and Megan Trachok coached by Marlene Rankin and Janet Hauge.
Boyce OM te
am going to
States.
Teachers Barbara Starr, Barbara Helmeci, Rosemary Richardson and Frank McFerran supported the kids by attending the competition. We are thankful to all of the coaches, judges, parents and school building PTAs who devoted hours and funds to the Odyssey of the Mind program. Students who participated in the program designed the 2003 USC team OM t-shirt. Not only was it a first for the students to design their own shirts, but it also raised awareness of just how many USC teams competed in this endeavor. All OM participants were honored with trophies at an awards ceremony this past March.
Kristy G. Cupelli D.M.D. Pediatric Dentistry
Alfred A. Cupelli D.M.D.
Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry
411 McMurray Road, Suite 102 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412/831-3373 Fax: 412/831-3777
William M. Sulkowski, D.M.D.
A Brief History The Odyssey of the Mind has its roots in the Industrial Design classes of Dr. Sam Micklus, Odyssey of the Mind founder. As a professor at Rowan University in New Jersey (formerly Glassboro State College) Dr. Micklus challenged his students to create vehicles without wheels, mechanical pie throwers and flotation devices that would take them across a course on a lake. He evaluated them not on the success of their solutions, but on the ingenuity applied and the risk involved in trying something new and different. Students had fun.
Word spread and the students’ activities attracted attention from the local media. Soon, people on the outside wanted a part of the action. This public interest led to the development of a creative problem-solving competition for school children. The Odyssey of the Mind was on its way. Since then, Dr. Micklus’ life has been happily consumed with developing problems for other people to solve. His rewards are in the joy and pride of the millions of participants who rise to the challenge of solving those problems.
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Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did you Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?
Did You Know?
Happy Memories Are Made Here Benedetti, Maria Iracki, en McClintock, Courtney Left to right, front row: Kar Bird; middle row: Katie Orchowski, Brianna Lewis, yn Stephanie Sheppard and Tar elia Petursson; back row: Kelsey Bird, Katie Law, Cec and pp Kno . ie han Step Whalen and Lexy Martin Amy McGinnis, Shannon
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Dancing in Florida iversal Dance Team was a finalist in the Un The Upper St. Clair Dance rida. As one of pionships in Orlando, Flo Association National Cham the USC team small varsity jazz division, 59 teams competing in the tions to the team! placed seventh. Congratula
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Elementary Fun at a Higher Level With the elementary schools under construction this year, many faculty members are exploring new and different ways to instruct students. Being imaginative with space constraints and lack of gym facilities means adapting gym classes to fit inside the classroom. It also means scheduling field trips within our District, allowing students to enjoy different activities. Fourth level students at Eisenhower swam in the High School pool when physical education teacher Carol Olack planned a field trip for them this past February. “It was not just a splash event,” said Carol. “The students were required to swim and discover their abilities in the water under supervision. They loved it!” Barb Rahr, physical education teacher at Baker, took her fourth level students on a field trip to Fort Couch where students enjoyed the space of a full-size gym with the help of the middle school students and Fort Couch physical education teacher Lisa Cain. “While participating in various games and physical fitness centers, the students were able to expend their energy in a positive way,” said Barb. Parachutes, jump ropes, climbing ropes, tetherballs, and more came out for the kids to play with and enjoy. Their smiling faces told the tale—physical activity for our children is wonderful!
Summer 2003
Beth Friday blocks the shot. Photograph by Dave DeNoma.
USCHS 1999 Gradua te Beth Friday is Ho nored Duquesne University honored the outstan ding play of senior Beth Friday by retiring her #40 jer sey this past February. Friday is just the second wome n’s basketball player to have her jer sey retired. Friday, wh o ends her college career as the on ly Duquesne player to record both 1,000 career points and rebounds, joins 1998 graduate and All-American Ko rie Hlede, a member of the WNBA’s New York Liberty. During her high scho ol career, Beth led th e girls’ basketball team to a 30-2 record and USCHS’ fi rst PIAA state title in 1999. She also lettered as the Panthe r’s soccer goalie and was named the 19 99 Pittsburgh Post Ga zette Female Athlete of the Year. Congratulations Beth !
Upper St. Clair Named as Field Trial Site for the New SAT The Standardized Achievement Test (SAT) will be changing beginning with the Class of 2006. These changes are designed to align the test more closely to the curriculum and skills required for success in college today. Writing, three years of high school math, and strong preparation in critical reading are regarded as the cornerstones of a good college preparatory curriculum. Upper St. Clair High School was selected to be the field trial site for the new SAT. This past March, 60 of our high school students were invited to participate in this four and one half hour test. The administration of this test will help to shape the new SAT by testing new item types. All home-schooled students in our District were also invited to take part. Because of the High School’s participation in this field trial, USCHS will be among the first to receive practice material for the new tests. For more information please contact the High School Counseling Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2290.
d” and PSSA Testing hool System “No Child Left Behin and the Pennsylvania Sc d” hin Be ft Le ild Ch o uncil program A 2002 federal law “N re discussed at a PTA Co we m gra pro ng sti Te ect the Upper Assessment (PSSA) w this new law will aff ho d sse cu dis m gra pro nia will use this past March. This onwealth of Pennsylva mm Co the w ho d an ict federal law. St. Clair School Distr uirements of the new req the et me to m gra student progthis assessment pro ance related to tracking rm rfo pe nt de stu SA ted by Patricia Implications of PS ent record were presen an rm pe s nt’ de stu a l K-6 and John ress and maintaining /Instructional Principa on ati uc Ed of tor rec l 7-12. Since B. Dunkis, Ed.D., Di /Instructional Principa on ati uc Ed of tor rec Di g and mathM. Bornyas, Ed.D., ht and eleven in readin eig , ve fi ee, thr s de gra ts found this the PSSA is given at n in writing, many paren ve ele d an e nin , six s ematics and at grade . hind,” written by program to be valuable l law, “No Child Left Be era fed new the g nin cer For an article con 48. rbara L. Bolas, see page ool sch board member Ba Summer 2003
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Celebrating Mother’s Day—May 11 Mother-Daughter Duos in Our Schools Samantha Reefer
A Mother God sought to give the sweetest thing In His almighty power To earth, and deeply pondering What it should be, one hour In fondest joy and love of heart Outweighing every other, He moved the gates of heaven apart And gave to earth a mother. —Author Unknown
Melissa and Mary Ann Tungate
Mary Ann Tungate has been a staff member of the Upper St. Clair School District for nine years. She was in the English department at the High School, and now is secretary of the counseling department. Mary Ann has been a USC resident for 24 years and has put her two children, David (’91 graduate) and Melissa (’94 graduate), through the USC school system. Mary Ann’s daughter, Melissa Tungate, also works in the District having worked in the High School English department for the past five years. Melissa is currently teaching English 10, Honors English 10, Journalism/Yearbook and is the teacher sponsor for the Clairvoyant, Upper St. Clair High School’s yearbook. Though many people work with and know Mrs. and Ms. Tungate, not many catch on to their mother-daughter relationship. When both ladies were asked if seeing one another every day was nice, they both responded with the same sentiment, “We don’t always get to see one another everyday, but it’s nice knowing we are in the same building.”
Mariann Adler and Michele Zirngibl
Mariann Adler has been an employee of the District for 15 years. She began as an aide at Fort Couch and is now head secretary at Baker. Both of Mariann’s children went through the USC school system, Michelle (’93 graduate) and Kenny (’96 graduate). Michelle Zirngibl (Adler) continued her love of education and became a teacher at the High School. For the past five years, Michelle has been the High School’s Life Skills Support teacher and loves every moment of it. When Michelle was asked why she followed in her mother’s footsteps, she replied, “Since my mother and I both have a love for special education, I was comfortable going into teaching and my mother’s nurturing nature helped.”
Joyce and Beth Vance
Joyce Vance, a long time resident of Upper St. Clair, is a registered nurse in the emergency department at St. Clair Hospital. She also serves as the head coach of the High School’s cheerleading squad and has been the sponsor of the USC auxiliary squad, her first job with School District, for the past fourteen years. In addition, Joyce co-coaches the High School dance team along with her daughter, Beth Vance. Joyce was asked if it was nice working with her daughter. She replied, “It’s easy to work with one another because we communicate so well and we both have the same goal—to make the squad the best!” Beth graduated from the High School in 1995; her siblings, Reid (’90) and Stacey (’94) also are USC graduates. Beth is currently working as a regional sales representative for Varsity Spirit Fashions and resides in the Township.
Five Upper St. Clair Teachers are Recognized Five teachers from Upper St. Clair received award-winning recognition from
the Teacher Excellence Foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Teacher of Distinction awards, earned by the top 60 nominations were Sam Hazo, Jack Zebo and Fred Lese. Todd Ollendyke and Whitney Angelo were recognized with Finalist awards; the next 60 scored nominations. Congratulations to Jack, Fred, Todd and Whitney who teach at the High School, and Sam who teaches at Boyce.
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Paw Prints Welcome to Paw Prints— a school news column provided by the USC PTA Council
Former Student Thanks Streams Teachers
Our Schools Kennywood Day It’s that time of year again! Kennywood Day is Monday, June 16. Discounted tickets will be sold at each of the schools. Questions? Call Donna Kavo 412-833-8467. See Kennywood announcement on page 68 for details. Streams Due to the construction this past year, the PTA has kept a low profile. This has not stopped students and teachers from keeping very busy academically. Spring Exhibit held on May 7, provided a wonderful opportunity for students and families to come out and see what has been going on since the first of the year. Fun and Fitness Fair—Saturday, May 31 is our evening community open house. Please come out to help us celebrate! Eisenhower Snuggle Up and Read with Dad—A new program launched in February. Over 150 families participated in a special reading night. Each family rotated through three of 13 themed rooms complete with guest Continued on page 58
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Left to right: Anne Johnston, Rosemary Richardson, Jason Toth and Kathy Mulhern. Jason Toth, a 2001 graduate of Upper St. Clair High School, returned
to Streams recently to thank his teachers for all they did to help him become successful. He stood tall, proud and confident as he hugged them. Jason told of how he felt that Streams was a nurturing school. He talked about his positive experiences at Streams and how much his teachers really cared. Jason wanted to come back to thank them before leaving for his assignment overseas. Jason is a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. He completed his basic training in August 2002 and finished Logistic Operations School in February. He is a mechanic in the USMC, specializing in Humvees and seven-ton trucks. Jason was deployed within two weeks of visiting Streams and is stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Jason is the son of Mark and Jan Toth of Upper St. Clair.
So, have we met? Jesus knows you. He patiently and lovingly waits for you to recognize him and get to know him. At Westminster Presbyterian Church, in worship, through teaching and mission we are guided to Jesus Christ who shows us the way to live.
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Paw Prints Continued from page 57
readers including: Dr. Pope reading poetry, school board member Dave Bluey reading Caldecott books, USC police officer Robert McMaster and USC fireman David Kish both reading mysteries, and Raymund Bischoff from Consol Inc. reading stories from around the world. In addition several grandfathers and dads from the community read from categories including spooky stories, sports, animals and nature. This event is sure to repeat. Teacher Appreciation Week—During a week in April students brought in flowers, stickers or pencils and fruit and snacks. Each day the teachers’ desks were full! A special breakfast was also held in their honor. Baker The Baker Caper—an annual fun filled evening for the children was held at the High School this year due to the construction on our school. The Caper is a carnival, auction, and dinner and serves as Baker PTA’s primary fundraiser. Diaper Drive—our successful outreach project. Children contributed a dollar each and funds were used to purchase diapers for a South Hills Interfaith Ministries donation. The Variety Show—an always popular and Baker Variety Show 2002 much anticipated event held in the High School theatre. The Variety Show provided an opportunity for the children to share their talents with an audience of the entire Baker family—children, parents, relatives and staff. So much talent! So much fun!
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Boyce February entertained us with our annual band and orchestra concert. As usual it was beautiful! Sixth Level I.B. Team performed The Living Time Line—The Living Time Line is a one-hour journey through history from ancient Egypt to modern times. The students begin working on this project at the beginning of the year. They present to staff, students, family and community to enjoy for three days and three nights. The Sixth level I.B. team participants. Living Time Line is unique to Boyce and is currently being studied by other school districts for its educational value. Folk Trails—Renowned story teller Tim Hartman performed for a PTA assembly, which included three stories of kindness, generosity and good virtues throughout the world. Another assembly in May titled “Apollo to the Moon” and performed by Gateway to the Arts’ Kevin Reese, was presented to all fifth level students. NASA Challenger Center for Space was the annual March fifth level field trip to Wheeling Jesuit University. Students begin training in January by working on projects and developing ideas to accomplish a predetermined mission. They apply for particular job assignments and then work as a team, each fulfilling his own job responsibility, to complete the group task. The project culminated at the Challenger Center—successful mission accomplished! The project
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Summer 2003
is underway .
More than 60 sixth level students participated in the Pennsylvania Mathematics League contest this past March. The fifth level contest was held in April with 70 students participating. Tests—This past winter sixth level students took the standardized achievement tests and fifth level students took the PSSA Reading and Math Assessments. Sixth level students, along with their parents, attended a three-day environmental trip to the Deer Valley YMCA Camp. This outdoor learning experience is also unique to our middle school. Revolutionary War Day was held for the fifth level students. Each team studied and presented information on a segment of the Revolutionary war. Outreach Projects—“Pennies for Patients” outreach program for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society was extremely successful. There were so many pennies they had to be hauled to a bank for counting! The MS Read-A-Thon program supported the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Students raised money by collecting pledges for reading books. Civil War Days are scheduled for May 28–30. There will be a Civil War Encampment on the school grounds portrayed by adults who travel to educate and reenact this historical time period. The Science Extravaganza will be held in June. This bi-annual event is a day of schoolwide, hands-on, science activities supported by the Boyce PTA. Fort Couch A February “Open Mike” allowed parents to meet with principal Tim Steinhauer and informally discuss concerns and thoughts about school related issues. Two evening socials were held for students—one on Valentine’s Day and one in the beginning of spring. On April 10, 2003, Fort Couch hosted its annual Spring Exhibit/Nationality Fair. Combining the two events gave students even more opportunity to share what they’ve learned with their families and community.
Brent Dillie received an All-American award for soccer. USC Future Problem Solvers senior team members made it to state finals. They are: Nicholas Carosella, Bert Ferrara, Mark Gabbard and Erich Scheller.
Theresa Avick and Sam Gerber
USC High School Congratulations to Mrs. Theresa Avick who received an award for excellence in the teaching of economics. The award was presented as part of the Adam Smith Award for Excellence in Leadership. Also receiving an award was sophomore Sam Gerber for his performance in the stock market game and his continued interest in economics. Congratulations to the Engineering, Fabrication and Design Team for placing second in the National Engineering Design Challenge in Wheeling in January. High School team presenters were Daniel Weller, Tony Gianni, Tara Rubino, Peter Soung and Akshaya Kumar. Team captains were Mark Bocchini and Aashish Warty. Supporting team members were Adrienne Belasco, Kyle Christie, Dylan Conrad, Katie DeLeo, Tony Ferrara, Matt Findle, Matt Greenwell, Louis Klos, Ryan Morgan, Sean Overby, Christine Snyder, Kayla Tawoda, Andrzej Wojcieszynski and Mike Zawacki. Congratulations to the following students who were named as 2003 National Merit finalists: Katharine Baratz, Megan Bode, Roger Cheng, Daniel Doan, Mark Gabbard, Fanny Kippelen, Xingyu Liu, Elizabeth Miller, Kunal Rambhia, Carl Rubin, Erich Scheller, Peter Soung, Esther Tseng, Andrew Weaver, Derick Wang, Daniel Weller and Louis Williams. Congratulations to Roger Cheng, Concertmaster of Upper St. Clair High School Orchestra, for winning the Young Artists Concerto Competition and performing his solo with the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra. Roger participated in the Roger Cheng Music Educators National Conference All-East Orchestra in Providence, Rhode Island, in March. Congratulations to the following students for their accomplishments at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science: First place— Ellen Goodlett, Mrudula Kudaravalli and Brian Liu; Second place—Christopher Carosella, Erin Gray, Varun Ravindran and William Romanias.
PTA Council In February the Upper St. Clair PTA Council celebrated the founding of the PTA organization and recognized those who have gone above and beyond in helping us to meet the objectives of our organization. This year’s recipients of the Pennsylvania Honorary State Life Membership are Lynn McGinnis and Shree Devi Kumar for their contributions to the District-wide school directory and Carol Seibert for her efforts in printing important communications for each of our units. Their efforts have helped to enhance the “information pipeline” that transmits information between and among PTA, schools and home.
Shree Devi Kumar, Lynn McGinnis and Carol Seibert
Our council serves to inspire and instruct. By pooling resources, we can provide better quality programming that addresses issues in parenting, education and in areas of special need through our Together In Parenting, Topics In Education and Partners in Education programs. Importantly, through various chairmen, we can keep the local units apprised of legislative action and current issues related to the health, safety and education of our children. Thanks for reading all about your community schools. Look for us in the Fall 2003 issue of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Read what’s happened over the summer at your community schools and what exciting things are planned for the 2003-04 school year! Complete monthly copies of Paw Prints can be obtained at your child’s school or by calling your school building’s PTA representative. Please contact your building’s PTA representative for more information on PTA Council.
Summer 2003
Thanks to Darenda Lease, PTA Council Publicity Chair, for providing Paw Prints information.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Proper Tree Mulching Walter Jarosh, Forester/ISA Certified Arborist
“Mulch volcano” can cause damage to a tree. Mulching is one of the most beneficial things
a homeowner can do for the health of their trees. Mulches are materials placed over the soil surface to maintain moisture and improve soil conditions. Mulch can reduce water loss from the soil, minimize weed competition, and improve soil structure. Homeowners must insure
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that mulch is properly applied; if it is too deep, or the wrong material is used, it can cause significant harm to trees or other landscape plants. Properly applied mulch can give landscapes a finished, well-groomed appearance. Trees growing in a natural forest environment have their roots anchored in a rich well-aerated soil full of nutrients. The soil is covered with a layer of leaves and organic matter that provides an optimum environment for root growth and nutrient uptake. Urban landscapes frequently have poorer soils with little organic matter, and typically experience large temperature and moisture fluctuations. Plant health can be improved by applying a two to four inch layer of organic mulch in a circle or bed around a tree. If possible the mulch should extend out to the drip line of the tree—an imaginary circle equivalent to the extent of the branches. Mulches are available commercially as inorganic and organic forms. Inorganic forms include various types of stone, lava rock, pulverized rubber, geotextile fabrics and other mulches. Inorganic mulches do not decompose and provide a longer lasting material, however; they do not improve soil structure, add organic matter or provide plant nutrients. Organic mulches include wood chips, pine needles, hardwood and soft wood bark, cocoa hulls, leaves, compost mixes and other plant based materials. Organic mulches decompose at varied rates, but it is the decomposition process that improves soil quality, fertility and ultimately the health of the tree or shrub that has been mulched. Too much mulch can be harmful. The depth of the mulch should be limited to two to four inches, and should not be heaped around the tree trunk. A new term, “mulch volcano” has emerged to describe the mulch that is piled in a volcano cone around a tree. This deep cone of mulch is very detrimental to the heath of a tree. Deep mulches can create excessive moisture, build up high temperatures associated with decomposition, affect soil pH, or create an anaerobic “sour” mulch with alcohol and organic acids that may be toxic to plants. Thick layers of mulch can become matted and act similar to a thatched roof and shed rainwater away from the root zone. It is clear that the choice of mulch and method of application are important to the health of landscape plants. The following are some guidelines to use when applying mulch. • Inspect plants and soil in the area to be mulched. Determine whether drainage is
Summer 2003
Mulch properly—extend mulch to a tree’s drip line.
adequate. Determine if there are plants that may be affected by the choice of mulch. Most commonly available mulches work well in most landscapes. Some plants may benefit from the use of slightly acidifying mulch such a pine bark. • If mulch is already present, check the depth. Do not add mulch if a sufficient layer is present. Rake the old mulch to break up any matted layers and refresh the appearance. Some landscape companies can spray existing mulch with a vegetable base dye to improve the appearance. • Pull back mulch away from tree trunks several inches. Create a mulch saucer rather than a mulch volcano. • Organic mulches are preferable to inorganic mulches. Organic mulches should be well aerated and preferably composted. Do not use sour or ammonia smelling mulches. • Composted wood chips can make good mulch, especially if they are blended with leaves, bark and wood. Fresh wood chips may also be used around established trees and shrubs. Question your source to insure that poison ivy plant material was not present or included in the wood chips. Many people have developed severe cases of poison ivy from spreading wood chips containing shredded poison ivy leaves and stems. Remember: For well-drained sites, apply a two to four inch layer of your favorite organic mulch. Use a thinner layer if drainage problems exist. Do not apply mulch against tree trunks. Mulch out to the tree’s drip line if possible. Mulch wider not deeper. Information from: ‘Proper Mulching Techniques,’ International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
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Outdoor Rooms Reflect Your Lifestyle Sharyn Fuchs Even in the often intemperate climate of Pittsburgh, we are
The most visual layer of an outdoor room is the ground plane, which conable to use and enjoy our tains the furnishings. These garden’s outdoor spaces for furnishings generally conat least six or seven months sists of lower plant material, of the year. As an extension such as shrubs, perennials, of the home’s interior, a garornamental grasses, annuals den should be structured and groundcovers, but can with outdoor rooms or include potted plantings, areas, to accommodate the water features, outdoor furlifestyle activities of the niture, garden sculptures or homeowners, which may ornaments, for utility and include recreation, enteremphasis. Just as interior taining, cooking, dining or design expresses individual simply relaxing. style within the home, the Rooms inside the home furnishings of an outdoor are defined by function, room will lend a distinctive floors, ceilings, walls and character to their space, Hardscape materials serve as the floor and walls of this swimming area, furnishings. These same elewhile reflecting the indiwhile the plant material lends a distinctive character to the space. ments are used to help define viduality of the homeowner. and create outdoor rooms for warmer weather enjoyment. The snow is gone and warmer weather is here. Make the Just as rooms within the home provide for social, family-orimost of your outdoor space these six or seven months with ented, and individual use, so do the outdoor areas created within rooms you can really live in. the garden. Outdoor rooms can have a primary function, such as recreation—when there is a swimming pool area. A deck, on the other hand, can be multi-functional in nature, providing a space for entertaining groups, cooking-out for the family or perhaps just spending time with your favorite unfinished novel. Hardscape surfacing materials, such as concrete, brick, stone and wood or even grass or mulch can serve as the floor for an outdoor area. As in the home, an appropriate outdoor floor pro1520 Bower Hill Road vides the base for other room features. The home’s architectural Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 style and existing building material should be considered when choosing complimentary materials such as brick, stone, concrete • Farm Fresh Fruits & or wood for decking, terraces, patios and walkways. Multiple Vegetables outdoor areas can be linked together by varying the pattern of the same material on different surface levels, or by using combinations • Hanging Baskets & of two or more materials when the surface levels are the same. Bedding Plants A sense of enclosure is provided by the ceiling and wall elements. The canopy provided by mature shade trees, a slatted arbor or pergola, • Quality Christmas Trees or simply a blue sky and white clouds, form the ceiling of the outdoor & Live Wreaths in Season room. Understory plant material, of both deciduous and evergreen species that are at eye height or taller, and constructed features, such Hours as trellises, fences, retaining walls or steps shape the walls. Monday — Saturday Sharyn Fuchs has a degree in horticulture and is the owner of WoodsCreek 9 am — 7 pm
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Go Out and Take a Walk A sunny day—a warm evening—an un-
expected hour of free time….The Gilfillan Trail in Upper St. Clair is just the answer for “What to do?” It’s a great place to get exercise and fresh air. Did you know that there are at least a dozen different types of trees surrounding Gilfillan Trail? Maples, oaks, cherry trees, elms, walnuts, and more are identified for your enjoyment. A brochure, titled “Gilfillan Trail Tree Identification Guide,” was developed by James M. Roberts, Jr. in 1984 to fulfill a project requirement for an Eagle Scout award. This brochure, which remains current, can be picked up at the Township building reception desk and used while you walk this lovely trail. It permits you to identify a variety of tree species and associate common uses and interesting facts with the trees. The identified trees are located sequentially along the trail and illustrated on the map in the brochure. Each labeled tree has a one-inch colored circular disk
Gilfi TREE IDEN llan Trail TIFICATI ON GUI
DE
Township of Upper Department of Recreation St. Clair & Leisure Se rvices 412-831-90 00
attached to the truck near ground level. Different colors correspond to the key on the back of the brochure.
The mulch-based trail is a one and onequarter-mile loop and closes at dark. In addition to self-guided walks, the trail may be used for leisure walking, hiking, jogging and winter cross country skiing. To protect and preserve the area, dogs are not permitted. Groups may arrange for a guided nature hike by contacting the Upper St. Clair Township, Department of Recreation and Leisure Services at 412-831-9000, extension 256. Many individuals and organizations help maintain and care for the trail for all of our enjoyment. So go out and take a walk. But if you want to go tree hunting, stop by the Township building, pick up a copy of the Gilfillan Trail brochure, then proceed to the trail for your quest of tree knowledge. It’s a great summertime activity for families young and old. In addition to Gilfillan Trail, Upper St. Clair plays host to two other walking trails—Boyce Nature Trail, which includes five separate trails, and a small trail at Tustin. Look for a write up on the Boyce trails with its places of interest, wildlife and variety of plant life, in our UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2003 issue.
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CARPET/VINYL/CERAMIC/HARDWOOD/WALLPAPER/ WINDOW TREATMENTS/AREA RUGS 64
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Insist on quality carpet and you’re sure to enjoy greater beauty, value, durability and satisfaction. And that’s exactly what every Gulistan STAINMASTER® Carpet delivers thanks to DuPont’s Advanced Teflon Repel System that resists staining because it reduces the ability of dirt and spills to stick and penetrate. Combined with Dura-Bak, Gulistan’s premier backing, the finished product is a luxurious carpet that stays cleaner, lasts longer and performs better. Best of all, Gulistan offers a wide variety of carpet styles and colors and stands behind them with the best warranty package in the industry. Come in today and select the Gulistan carpet that’s right for your home. It’s carpet you’ll love because its luxury for life.
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Protect Yourself from the Sun We all like to get out in the summer sun and soak it
up. Those bright sunny days have a great way of lifting our spirits. But, we must make sure that while therapeutically mending our spirits we aren’t damaging our skin. According to the American Cancer Society, melanoma, the type of skin cancer most likely to be life threatening, is now 15 to 20 times more common than 50 years ago. Among fair-skinned individuals, skin cancer has become the most common form of cancer, accounting for nearly 1.5 million new cases in North America every year. Eighty percent of sun exposure occurs before the age of 18. Those who are at risk for skin cancer include people who have fair complexions, blue eyes and red hair; people who experience more than three blistering sunburns; and those with a family history of malignant melanoma. To protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet or UV radiation, physicians at The Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh advise the public to: • Minimize your exposure to the sun. Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its peak.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing with long sleeves outdoors. • Cover exposed skin with a protective sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied to infants age six months and older, children, adults and the elderly. • Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming, exercising or any activity that causes you to perspire. • Remain in the sun for only a few minutes at a time. • To protect your eyes, wear UV-protective sunglasses, even when in the shade. • Remember, there is no such thing as a safe tan. Artificial tans resulting from tanning salons (beds or booths) expose users to harmful UV rays. If you patronize a tanning salon, be sure to cover your eyes.
Information in this article was provided by MercyLink. For more information on sun safety and preventing skin cancer, call MercyLink at 412-232-5660.
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Upper St. Clair High School Halls Of Fame Mission Statement: To identify and to honor those who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate, or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School.
A former student must meet the following criteria to be considered for any of the three Halls of Fame. The individual must be
a graduate of Upper St. Clair High School and must be away from the high school for at least five years. The individual must have made a positive contribution during high school as well as significant achievements after leaving USCHS. Students are nominated by members of the high school staff, an Upper St. Clair alumni or the Upper St. Clair community. Administrative staff, teachers and coaches are also eligible. Each Hall of Fame Committee will include representatives from the high school staff, alumni and the community. Nominees must earn a 75% vote of a quorum of the committee. During and after high school, the student could have excelled in one or more of the following: Arts • School and Local Awards • District and Regional Awards • • State and National Recognition • Contributions in the Field • • Post Graduate Recognition • Collegiate Recognition • • Professional Accomplishments • • School Service and/or Leadership in Field • • Benefactor of the Arts • Contributions to Society • • Excellent Citizenship •
Athletics • High School Awards and Records • • WPIAL or PIAA Champion • Post Season Recognition • • National Recognition • Multiple Sport Consideration • • Post Graduate Recognition • • Collegiate Accomplishments • • Professional Accomplishments • • Leadership Accomplishments • • Other Hall of Fame Honors • Media Recognition • • Excellent Citizenship •
Academics • Academic Honors • National Merit Recognition • • National Honor Society • Valedictorian • • Student of the Year • Scholarship Awards • • School Service and/or Leadership • • Post Graduate Recognition • Collegiate Recognition • • Publication of Work • Professional Accomplishments • • Contributions to Society • Excellent Citizenship •
2003 Halls of Fame Inductee Nomination Nominee’s Name: ________________________________ My nominee should be honored in the Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame because: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ (include a separate sheet if necessary)
All Nominations Due June 6, 2003. Please submit your name, address and phone number along with your completed nomination to: Principal’s Office Halls of Fame Committee Upper St. Clair High School 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
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USC Kennywood Day
Monday, June 16
Rides open at 11 a.m. Bus servic available e is fr Fort Cou om Middle S ch chool.
ater Bottled wby the provided Foundation nity Commu the shelter at ill. he Old M t d in h e b
Ticket Sale Price
$16
Ticket sales available from Kennywood personnel (cash only) on Friday, May 23 at the following school buildings: High School 6:45 – 7:45 a.m. Eisenhower 8:15 – 8:45 a.m. Fort Couch 9 – 9:30 a.m.
Baker 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.
Boyce 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.
Streams 10:30 – 11 a.m.
St. Louise de Marillac 12:15 – 12:45 p.m. Watch for mailings or call Cheryl Ellison at 412-833-1600, extension 2202.
Around the Township Pittsburgh Musical Theater Announces New Summer Program
Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Richard E. Rauh Conservatory has expanded its
summer program to include dance and drama programs as well as musical theater. The Summer Performing Arts Academy programs are offered in three age groups during a four-week session. The classes culminate in performances open to the public during the fourth week. This year’s program begins June 16 and ends July 12. Students ages four to seven can participate in Broadway Juniors, an introduction to musical theater offered two hours a day, three days a week. Students learn beginning dance, acting, and group vocal skills through games and music.
Town Hall South Lecture 2003-04 Series Announced Town Hall South has announced the following speakers for its 2003-04 lecture series: • October 7—Ann Compton, White House ABC News correspondent, will offer an insider’s view into upcoming elections. • November 11—Harm DeBlij, professor, author, geographer and geography expert on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and NBC News. • December 2—Will Miller, comedian, minister, psychotherapist with his recently published book, Refrigerator Rights. • February 3, 2004—Bruce Feilor, author and storyteller with his newest book, Abraham, A Journey to the Heart of Three Faiths. • March 2, 2004—Judith Miller, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and Middle East Expert, author of Germs: Biological Weapons and America’s Secret War.
All lectures are held at the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre and begin at 10 a.m. The series is sold as a subscription only at a cost of $80. Make checks payable to and mail to:
Town Hall South, 2040 Washington Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241.
Students ages eight to 12 can participate in a pre-teen musical theater program. Students take acting and jazz classes in the morning and rehearse for a fully produced production of “Oliver!” in the afternoon. Students ages 13 to 18 can participate in one of four options. Musical Theater Track students take classes in acting and jazz and rehearse for a fully produced production of “Evita.” Dance Track students take classes in jazz, ballet, and tap and rehearse for several original dance pieces to be performed in the fourth week. Drama Track students take classes in acting, stage movement, and voice and speech as well as rehearsing for a full-length play. In addition, non-performing students can participate in the Technical Track program where they take classes in all aspects of technical production as well as working on special projects and back stage for all of the performances. Pittsburgh Musical Theater is a not-for-profit company committed to providing affordable, quality musical theater to the Pittsburgh region; advancing the arts education of youth; and developing and employing local talent. All classes are held at Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s studios in the West End at 327 South Main Street. Teen and pre-teen program hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 412-539-0999, extension 234.
412-563-3328
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Bower Hill Community Church Bower Hill Community Church in Mt. Lebanon holds a unique series of alternate
evening worship services on Sundays at 6 p.m. in the sanctuary. This celebration service is informal, lively and relevant. Services include drama, video and music. They are designed to appeal to persons of all ages. Bower Hill Community Church is located on Moffett Street, off Bower Hill Road across the street from Jefferson School. For more information, call the church at 412-561-4114.
Family Hospice and Palliative Care Family Hospice and Palliative Care Speaker’s Bureau can provide programs
for your club, neighborhood group, and church or synagogue group. Possible topics include the philosophy of hospice care and grief and loss. Call 412-572-8809 to arrange for a speaker. Hospice services are available to those with a life-limiting illness through Family Hospice and Palliative Care. Family Hospice and Palliative Care provides physical, emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families. Call 412-572-8800. Summer 2003
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A Historical Day Trip of Pittsburgh We’ve traveled north, we’ve traveled south, and we’ve traveled
east and west to uncover hidden secrets and enjoyable places to visit on our day trips. But have we ever traveled back in time? This issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine will take you on a historical journey to rediscover some of Pittsburgh’s “firsts.” Our great city of Pittsburgh was the first to do many things. Enjoy this day trip with us as we uncover just a few of the many firsts of our fair city. • First Heart, Liver, Kidney Transplant–December 3, 1989: The first simultaneous heart, liver and kidney transplant was done at Presbyterian-University Hospital. • First Ferris Wheel–1892-93: The first ferris wheel, invented by Pittsburgh native and civil engineer, George Washington Gale Ferris (1859-1896), was in operation at the World’s Fair (Columbian Exposition) in Chicago. It was over 264 feet high and was capable of carrying more than 2000 passengers at a time. • First Internet Emoticon– 1980: The Smiley was the first Internet emoticon, created in 1980 by Carnegie Mellon University computer scientist Scott Fahlman. • First Robotics Institute–1979: The Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University was established in 1979 to conduct basic and applied research in robotics technologies relevant to industrial and societal tasks. • First Mr. Yuk Sticker–1971: Mr. Yuk was created at the Poison Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh after research indicated that the skull and crossbones previously used to identify poisons had little meaning to the children of today. For most children it means exciting things like pirates and adventure. Covering 27 counties and 33% of Pennsylvania’s population, the Pittsburgh Poison Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh is the largest center of its kind in the United States. • First Night World Series Game–1971: Game four of the 1971 World Series was the first night game in series history. Pittsburgh tied the series in that game with a four to three win and went on to win the series, four games to three. This was one of the last big moments in the career of well-loved Pirate, Roberto Clemente. Fourteen and a half months after the 1971 World Series, he died in a plane crash off the coast of his native Puerto Rico as he attempted to take food, clothing and medical supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. • First Big Mac–1967: Created by Jim Delligatti at his Uniontown McDonald’s, the Big Mac debuted and was test marketed in three other Pittsburgh-area McDonald’s restaurants in 1967. By 1968 it was a mainstay on McDonald’s menus throughout the country and, eventually, the world. • First Pull-Tab on Cans–1962: The pull-tab was developed by Alcoa and was first used by Iron City Brewery in 1962. For many years, pulltabs were used only in this area. • First Retractable Dome–September 1961: Pittsburgh’s Civic Arena, now known as the Mellon Arena, boasts the world’s first auditorium with a retractable roof. It is currently under consideration for demolition. • First U.S. Public Television Station, WQED–April 1, 1954: WQED, operated by the Metropolitan Pittsburgh Educational Station, was the first community-sponsored educational television station in America and was also the first to telecast classes to elementary schools in 1955. 70
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• First Baseball Stadium in the U.S.–1909: The first baseball stadium, Forbes Field, was built in Pittsburgh, followed soon by similar stadiums in Chicago, Cleveland, Boston and New York. Forbes Field closed in 1970 when Three Rivers Stadium opened. PNC Park is the newest replacement, which opened Spring 2001. • First Polio Vaccine–March 26, 1953: The polio vaccine was developed by Dr. Jonas E. Salk, a 38-year-old University of Pittsburgh researcher and professor, and his staff at the University of Pittsburgh. • First All-Aluminum Building ALCOA–August 1953: The first aluminum-faced skyscraper was the Alcoa Building, a 30-story, 410 foot structure with thin stamped aluminum panels forming the exterior walls. • First Zippo Lighter–1932: George G. Blaisdell invented the Zippo lighter in 1932 in Bradford, Pennsylvania. You can find the name of the manufacturing location, now either Bradford or Niagara Falls, Canada, stamped on the bottom of every Zippo lighter. The name Zippo was chosen by Blaisdell because he liked the sound of the word “zipper” which was patented around the same time in nearby Meadville. • First Bingo Game–early 1920s: Hugh J. Ward first came up with the concept of bingo in Pittsburgh and began running the game at carnivals in the early 1920s, taking it nation-wide in 1924. He secured a copyright on the game and wrote a book of Bingo rules in 1933. • First Banana Split–1904: The banana split was invented by Dr. David Strickler, a pharmacist, at Strickler’s Drug Store in Latrobe. • First U.S. Commercial Radio Station, KDKA–November 2, 1920: Dr. Frank Conrad, assistant chief engineer of Westinghouse Electric, first constructed a transmitter and installed it in a garage near his home in Wilkinsburg in 1916. The station was licensed as 8XK. At 6 p.m. on November 2, 8KX became KDKA Radio and began broadcasting at 100 watts from a makeshift shack atop one of the Westinghouse manufacturing buildings in East Pittsburgh. • First Gas Station–December 1913: The first automobile service station, built by Gulf Refining Company, opened in Pittsburgh at Baum Boulevard and St. Clair Street in East Liberty. It was designed by J.H. Giesey. • First Motion Picture Theater–1905: The first theater in the world devoted to the exhibition of motion pictures was the “Nickelodeon,” opened by Harry Davis on Smithfield Street in Pittsburgh. • First World Series–1903: The Boston Pilgrims defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates five games to three in baseball’s first modern World Series in 1903. The Pirates lost the final game four to three, before a crowd of 7455 in Boston. Four of the series’ games were played in Pittsburgh. • Long-Distance Electricity–1885: Westinghouse Electric developed alternating current, allowing long-distance transmission of electricity for the first time. • First Air Brake–1869: The first practical air brake for railroads was invented by George Westinghouse in the 1860s and patented in 1869. In the same year he organized the Westinghouse Air Brake Company. With additional automatic features incorporated into its design, the air brake became widely accepted, and the Railroad Safety Appliance Act of 1893 made air brakes compulsory on all American trains.
The New Law on Child Restraint Systems A Law of Love
Amy Kerman
Golden Rule Antiques & Accessories Furniture and Accessories Buying • Selling • Consignment
A delightful array of antiques in a historic schoolhouse setting. Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm .... ....... ....... y nda Mo 00 pm Tuesday ................... 10:00 am-4: SED CLO ..... ....... Wednesday 00 pm Thursday ................ 10:00 am-7: 00 pm -4: am 0 10:0 .. Friday ..................... :00 pm n-5 noo 0 12:0 .. ....... ....... ay Saturd :00 pm n-5 noo 0 Sunday .................... 12:0 Amy buckles up Sarah and Rebecca. A new law that extends the current child
restraint laws took effect in Pennsylvania on February 21, 2003. Children age four through age seven (i.e., until their eighth birthday) must be restrained in a federally approved safety seat when riding in a motor vehicle. The new law, supported by H.R. 5504 and passed by Congress in November 2002, directed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to improve standards for child restraint systems. The Congressional law, also called Anton’s Law, is named for Anton Skeen, a four-year-old boy who was ejected from a safety belt and killed in a car crash in Washington state. A 2001 study done in Pennsylvania showed that 88% of four to eight-year-olds were not in appropriate booster seats. The risk of injury is reduced approximately 70% when a booster seat is used rather than the shoulder/lap belt alone. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for children from ages six to 14. In the U.S., 24 children under the age of ten die every week in car crashes. I am not a trained expert on safety seats, but I’ve done a lot of research on the subject and spent time with trained experts. I’ve learned that using safety seats effectively is primarily a size issue. The NHTSA, in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), promotes a four stage child safety seat method: stage one is for infants in a rear-facing seat; stage two is for forward-facing seats; stage three is for children who need a belt positioning booster (BPB) seat; and stage four is for children over 4'9" who are ready to use seat belts unassisted
by a booster. This article is about seats for children who are affected by the new law. Most four-year-olds are in stage two, using a forward facing safety seat (sometimes called a toddler seat), which is designed to fit a child with a three or five-point internal harness. The seat is then attached to the car, using a safety belt (shoulder and lap, or lap only) or LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. Only newer cars have the LATCH anchors built in, but many cars and seats can be retrofitted by the dealer (for the car) and manufacturer (for the seat) for use of a tether. A LATCH system is not necessarily safer than the older kind; all seats must meet the same safety standards. The LATCH system is designed to reduce misuse and improper installation of seats. If you make sure your seat is properly installed in whatever system you use, your precious cargo will be protected. Correct installation of forward facing safety seats can be tricky. Read the manual in its entirety. Then fit the harness on the child before installing the seat in your car. Many seats have the adjustment controls behind the seat, which you cannot access once the seat is installed. There are a few forward-facing models with a front adjustable harness. They are especially useful in winter when dealing with many layers of clothing. Remember, infant seats keep the shoulder harness at or below the shoulder level, but forward facing seats keep the shoulder harness at or above the shoulder level.
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Continued on page 72 Summer 2003
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A Law of Love Continued from page 71
The chest clip should be even with the armpits, and make sure the harness webbing is snug and not twisted. You should be able to fit only one finger under the tightened harness. Next comes installing the seat into the car. There are estimates that over 80% of seats are installed improperly and fail to provide adequate protection. The goal is to get the seat in tight enough that it moves not more than one-inch front to back or side to side. Follow the directions in the seat and vehicle manuals. If you have any questions, consult an expert. A child should continue to use this seat until he has outgrown it, which happens when his shoulders are above the upper slots of the harness, at about 40 inches tall. Some seats also carry a notice of a maximum weight of 40 pounds, so read the manual for specific details. The next stage is into a belt-positioning booster seat, which is designed to boost a child up so the vehicle’s seat belt can fit properly. The booster seat itself is not secured to the car; tethers and LATCH systems are not used. When the seat belts are positioned properly on the child, the lap belt should lie low and flat across the upper thighs, not over the stomach. The shoulder portion should cross the shoulder about half way between the shoulder and the neck. If the shoulder belt is too close to the shoulder, the upper body will slip out in a sharp turn, sudden stop or crash. If the shoulder belt is too close to the neck, it can choke a child. Never let a child put the shoulder strap behind him; a lap belt alone will not adequately protect him. A benefit to booster seat use is that a child can see out of the car windows better, which helps to control motion sickness. (Incidentally, some models do not have removable or washable seat covers. If this is important to you, check the manual while shopping.) Some toddler seats are convertible to a beltpositioning booster seat. Whether you use a convertible seat or move into a separate BPB, you must be aware that each model is different; read the manufacturer’s manual and your vehicle’s manual for details. A tall, thin child may need to be in a BPB seat sooner than 40 pounds; some booster seats can be used at 40 or so inches and 30 pounds. If your child is large and reaches the limits of the toddler seat before he or she can sit properly in a BPB, contact one of the sources listed at the end of this article for suggestions. There is not a best seat or best model; don’t judge a seat by its cost. An expensive seat may have more bells and whistles but is not necessarily any safer than a less expensive model. The one that works best is the one that fits your child and your car best. Most retailers will let 72
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
you try out their display model in your car to see how it works. Should you use a high back booster seat or a bottom-only (backless) booster? This depends on your car. A high back seat works like a head restraint for a driver, protecting the head and neck in a crash. If the middle or back seat of your car has head restraints or is constructed as a high back seat, you can use a backless booster. Test your child in the seat. The top of his ears
must be below the top of the seat or restraint for it to adequately protect his head and neck. If his ears are close to the top, there is not much space to grow before the situation becomes unsafe. The backless boosters with shields are not recommended for children over 40 pounds by the NHTSA or AAP, as well as numerous other safety organizations, but many backless models have removable shields. You must use a shoulder belt with any booster, so make sure the shoulder portion of the seat belt fits the child properly. Aftermarket shoulder belt positioners or comfort guides used to place the shoulder webbing across the shoulder rather than the neck are not tested by the NHTSA. A high back booster seat will have an adjustable shoulder guide system on the upper sides of the seat. Some guides offer several positions, and you thread the shoulder belt through the appropriate slot to fit your child. Some of these guides lock the belt into place. The belt should be snug. Some models allow the shoulder belt to move, slide and retract, just as with the front
Summer 2003
seats, using the Emergency Locking Retractor system (ELR). If the seat belt is an ERL, the shoulder belt does not have to be in the locked position. It will retract and lock, as it does for the front seat belts, upon impact or when the driver hits the brakes suddenly. But beware. Consumer Reports (July 2001) warns about guides that can prevent the safety belt from working properly. The belt gets jammed in the guide, which leaves the shoulder belt with slack and does not adequately protect the child. According to Consumer Reports (and my experience: we had a BPB with guides that kept getting the belt webbing tangled) the open-loop guides are best at allowing the safety belt to slide freely and retract fully so the belt is snug, letting the ERL work properly. Get information on the seat you choose from the instruction manual, displays in stores, magazines and on the Internet. Look for both the weight and height limitations of a seat. I learned the expensive way. My seven-year-old’s seat is labeled for use until she reaches 70 pounds, which is at least two years away for her. But I recently noticed she was getting to the point where her ears were almost to the top of the back of the BPB seat. I consulted the manual and learned that the high back model we currently use is designed for use only until a child is 51 inches tall, far short of the 57 inches recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. I checked the other seat we also use, and found that it too is only useful until 51 inches. Since our car does not have head restraints or high backed back seats, a backless model is not an option for us. I have learned that there are high backed BPB seats available that can be used until a child reaches 60 inches. Placement of the safety seat is also important. The new Pennsylvania law states only that a child may be restrained anywhere in the vehicle. The NHTSA has several recommendations about placement of children in a car. All children under 12 years of age should sit in the back seat of the car. The middle position is the safest, but only newer cars may have a shoulder belt in that position. (One of the provisions of Anton’s Law is that all new cars will have middle position shoulder belts by 2008.) Most cars do not have LATCH positions for the middle seat either. You can use the lap-only belt for a stagetwo forward-facing seat, but make sure it stays tight. It may need some sort of locking clip for the webbing. A BPB must be used with a shoulder belt, so it won’t work in most cars at this time. Never put a safety seat in a position that has an airbag. Many safety seats are for forward-facing positions only, and cannot be
used in rear- or side-facing station wagon seats. This new law will make it complicated for larger families and carpooling. When you do buy a new seat, write the serial number, model number and date of manufacture that are printed on the side of the seat onto the instruction manual. Staple your receipt to the manual, so you have proof of purchase, and keep the manual where you can find it. The glove compartment of your car is a good choice, so that it is accessible when you need to check it. Send the warranty card in! You will be notified in case of a recall. Also, write the child’s name and safety information on a card and tape it to the seat, so that if he is in an accident while riding in someone else’s car, there is a record of who he is and his emergency information is available. Here’s some more dos and don’ts—When driving in your car without a child in the BPB seat, still buckle it in with the seat belt. If your car is in an accident, you don’t want a booster seat flying loose around the cabin of the car. In a perfect world, nothing should be loose in the car to become a projectile: no tapes, CDs or cell phones, no water bottles or juice boxes, no happy meal toys, purses or book bags. That goes for dogs and cats too! Yes, there are restraint systems for animals. Ask your veterinarian for details. Do not use a seat for more than ten years. Many manufacturers recommend only five years of use. If it is a hand-me-down safety seat, make sure it comes with the instruction manual. Also make sure it has never been recalled or in an accident. While buying items second hand is a good way to save money, don’t purchase a car seat second hand. You never know what it has been through. Some places won’t sell used seats because of the potential liability. There are many programs that offer loaner or giveaway safety seats. So what if your car is in an accident? Whether or not the safety seat was occupied, it needs to be replaced—insurance companies know this. A seat can sustain hidden damage, even in a mild crash, and it must be replaced. (And you wondered why I recommended stapling the receipt to the instruction manual.) There are some devices you can buy that say they are an adjustment system for the seat belt system in your car, and they “replace” a booster seat. These contraptions are not required to meet any federal standards. Tests done by the NHTSA showed they actually reduced the effectiveness of the shoulder belt and also tend to pull the lap portion up on the soft tummy area. They are not recommended for use. Failure to comply with Pennsylvania’s new law is a secondary offense, meaning that you cannot be pulled over and cited for failure to restrain a fiveyear-old, but if you do get pulled over, a citation can be added. The fine is $100 plus fees. The fine
DIABETES WAITS FOR NO ONE.
WHY WAIT FOR IT?
Diabetes can begin affecting you long before you know you have the disease. Regular follow up with your doctor is important to aid in early detection and treatment of diabetes. Through our partnership with Allegheny General Hospital and Canonsburg General Hospital, we provide advanced, comprehensive treatment to help adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes take back control of their health. Services for diabetes management include insulin pump initiation and management, a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator. Under the direction of Dr. Peter Grondziowski, The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Health also addresses the needs of individuals with thyroid and adrenal disorders, osteoporosis, elevated cholesterol and reproductive disorders. For more information, call 412-442-7140.
The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Health Allegheny General Hospital Bethel Park Canonsburg General Hospital
Continued on page 74 Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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A Law of Love Continued from page 73
can be waived if you produce proof of purchase or a notarized document that you received a seat as a transfer from someone else. What about other states? The American Automobile Association (AAA) puts a list of driving regulations, including child restraints mandatory use, for every state and Canadian province in their trip-tiks. When you compare laws, Pennsylvania is now one of the safer states. Do not let your child fall into a bad habit when traveling to states with inferior regulations. Yes, it can be a hassle to transport a seat on a plane, especially if it is a BPB and must be handled as luggage, but safety is the priority. And of course, always use a seat belt yourself. In a study conducted by the National SAFE KIDS Campaign in 2002, 40% of children riding with unbelted drivers were completely unrestrained, compared with only five percent of children riding with drivers using safety belts. Many infant and toddler seats are approved for use in an aircraft, but a booster seat cannot be: airplanes have lap belts only. The NHTSA trains technicians around the country to conduct safety seat inspections. Pittsburgh’s Children’s Hospital and other local organizations frequently conduct inspections in local areas. Be alert to announcements. Some auto dealers have sent an employee to NHTSA training. They will do an inspection on any
A I M I N G
make of car. The NHTSA website can steer you to a local dealer who provides this service. Pennsylvania’s new law is a step in the right direction, but the law still falls short of the height and weight recommendations of the NHTSA. A child will need the help of a safety seat until he is at stage four, which is when:
Q
• The child can sit with his back straight against the vehicle back seat cushion. • The child’s knees are bent over the vehicle’s seat edge without slouching. • The lap portion of the belt rests low across the hips. • The shoulder belt is centered on the shoulder and chest. • The child can remain in this position for the duration of the trip.
American Academy of Pediatrics www.aap.org
Generally, a child will be about 4'9" and 80 pounds or more at that point. The new law further states that children ages eight to 18 must be secured in a seat belt system anywhere within the vehicle. Think of child restraint laws as “Laws of Love.” No child restraint seat can guarantee protection from injury, but proper use of appropriate child restraint seats significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death.
PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project Sponsored by AAP 919 Conestoga Road, Bldg. 2, #307 Rosemont, PA 19010 1-800-CAR-BELT (227-2358)
H I G H
Useful Resources:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration www.nhtsa.dot.gov 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (327-4236) www.buckleupamerica.org
STUDENTS THRIVE ON 5-DAY BOARDING
Board at Shady Side five days a week. Spend the weekends at home. It’s a step toward independence while keeping close family ties. Students experience extensive opportunities for discovering and developing talents — academically, in sports and the arts. And they make lifelong friends.
For more information please contact Katie Mihm, Director of Admission, 412-968-3180, kmihm@shadysideacademy.org
SHADY SIDE ACADEMY Day School K-12
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Boarding 9-12
The USC Football Boosters Annual Golf Outing
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BUSINESSES FOR ALL YOUR HOME WIRING NEEDS
Monday June 2, 2003 St Clair Country Club.
Shotgun Event Beginning at 12:30 pm.
Trusted Electricians for over 75 Years
This is always a fun event attended by Coach Render, his staff, alumni, and friends.
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Anyone interested in participating can contact
1-888-55-FERRY or 412-650-5579
Rich Mathews at 412-344-7100/412-849-8757 or
REGISTERED CONTRACTORS
e ••
A. Petrelli & Sons, Inc.
Cindy Mathews at 412-833-4899/412-849-1711.
GENERAL MASONRY CONTRACTORS
Sidewalks • Walls Steps • Porches Driveways Patios • Floors
As Always, We Look Forward To A Fun Filled, Sold Out Event. Hope To See You There.
Brick • Concrete Stone • Slate
Go Panthers!!
PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURED MEN
OFFICE AND WAREHOUSE
1264 Hope Hollow Road • Carnegie, PA 15106
412-561-6732 • 412-276-1030 • 412-835-0112
Support Our 2003 High School Varsity Football Team Cheer on our Panthers at the Home Games! Kick-offs Fridays—7:30 p.m. at Panther Stadium September 12 Youth Night
412-563-3005
USC faces Albert Gallatin*
Serving Greater Pittsburgh for Over 50 Years
September 26 Halls of Fame Induction Ceremony
www.tri-statewindow.com
USC battles Plum
4158 Library Road • Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Shingle, Slate, Tile & Flat Roof Repairs Specialist Alcoa Siding, Soffit, Fascia, Seamless Gutters & Downspout Systems Chimneys Rebuilt or Repaired • Roof Ventilation Systems–All Types
October 3 Homecoming
USC confronts Trinity*
QUALITY WORK & CLEAN-UP SPEAKS FOR ITSELF
October 25 Football, Cheerleader Band Recognition Night
*Section Games
USC challenges Canon McMillan*
Roof & Gutter Repairs & Replacements All Types
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Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
75
2003 Dining Guide
Sesame Inn FINEST CHINESE CUISINE
se e n i h C “Bessttaurant” Re
voted by the readers of • PITTSBURGH magazine 2002 • Mt. Lebanon magazine 2002 • Post-Gazette • Tribune Review • Rated by KDKA TV
Gourmet Chinese Restaurant Treat your family to the award winning Best Chinese Restaurant NOW TAKING MOTHER’S DAY RESERVATIONS
GREAT FOOD AND A WHOLE LOT AMORE´.
(412) 279-8088
Open Free Delivery Takeout (limited areas) Available 7 days 1082 Bower Hill Rd.(next to St. Clair Hospital) Pittsburgh, PA 15243
SILK ROAD DINNER COUPON $3.00 OFF NO
purchase of $20 or more CASH REFUND (excludes Mother’s Day)
EXPIRES 8/31/03
FOR PARTIES, SPECIAL OCCASIONS OR BUSINESS, YOU’LL FIND A WHOLE LOT TO LOVE AT BRUSCHETTA’S. TO LEARN AMORE ´, CALL US AT 412-431-3535.
BRUSCHETTA’S
- 19TH & CARSON STREETS • SOUTH SIDE -
PASQUARELLI’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
Lunch • Dinner • Free Delivery Carryout • Banquet Facilities Gift Certificates
Featuring the Finest American-Italian Cuisine Private Banquet Rooms at Both Locations: 1204 Grandview Avenue Mt. Washington, PA 15211 412-431-1660
Mt. Lebanon 412-341-2555 Station Square 412-281-8282 North Hills 412-366-1838 McMurray 724-942-2888
Painter’s Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15228 412-221-0350 Fax 412-221-9700
Veal Steak Seafood Chicken Fresh Fish Homemade Pasta Homemade Desserts
Extensive Wine List
www.sesameinn.net
Family Owned and Operated by
Gino, Joe & Mario 76
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
2003
Summer Signature Service
Everything is New at
Eclectic Dining Experience American Cuisine, International Flair Nothing Better. serving lunch and dinner, Monday–Saturday
zz Live Ja rday & Satu
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1-79 at Southpointe Exit 48 1000 Corporate Drive Canonsburg adjacent to the Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe
Bridgeville Restaurant Our Remodeling is Complete... Check Out Our New Bar and Dining Room Look! Same Great Food at Affordable Pricing Newly Remodeled Dining Rooms Newly Remodeled Lounge Including a Circular Bar New Menu with Daily Specials New “Late Late Night” Lounge Menu
phone 724.743.5005 experiencejacksons.com
413 Railroad Street • Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-221-5202 • Fax 412-221-9260
Strawberries Celebrate Summer!
Ahhh…strawberries—a delicious sign of summer! Did you know that strawberries pack it in when it comes to nutritional value—vitamin C, folate and fiber, and all without cholesterol or saturated fats? Try a quick pick-me-up for an after-school snack or a refreshing treat for yourself. Prep ahead and freeze for a quick on-the-go snack.
Yogurt Fruit Smoothie (makes two cups)
Splendid Food • Enchanted Evenings Dinner Served
Monday–Saturday 5 p.m.–10 p.m.
Reservations Suggested
24 Donati Road • 412-833-7000
1 cup frozen or chilled fresh strawberries 1 cup sliced banana or sliced frozen peaches 1 cup yogurt or soy yogurt 1 tsp. vanilla (optional) 1-2 tbsp. sugar or sugar substitute (optional) Combine berries with yogurt in blender or food processor. Whip until smooth and add flavoring to desired taste. Add low-fat milk for a thinner consistency. Pour over ice cubes or add ice to blender. Substitute in-season fruits for delicious flavors throughout the summer!
Summer 2003
AWARD WINNING EXECUTIVE CHEF JERRY TENAGLIA’S NEW RESTAURANT
Upscale Italian food at family prices. A unique selection of wines, fresh pasta, seafood, veal, western aged beef, signature salads and gourmet flat bread pizza. Happy Hour: 2 for 1 from 5-7 p.m.
Live entertainment at Bello’s Underground Lounge (sponsored by IC Light)
Mt. Lebanon/Upper St. Clair’s Newest Restaurant 1600 Painters Run Road Mt. Lebanon/Upper St. Clair
412-220-9200
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Dr. William A. Pope Tribute A Board Member’s View
Dina Fulmer, Upper St. Clair School Board Director What does a woman say about someone who’s
been such an important man in her life for 20 years? Not an easy assignment, to be sure. From a personal perspective, it’s obvious: Bill Pope possesses the characteristics women most admire. He is kind, he is patient, he is slow to anger, he is attentive, he is complimentary, he is gracious, he is discreet, he is mannerly; in short, Bill Pope is the eponym for gentleman. From a board member’s perspective, I got to know Bill when he became acting superintendent during my first tenure as board president, in 1987. Having been on the board only three years before assuming the board presidency, I relied very much on his counsel, and he won my gratitude for always making me look good, for correcting my many gaffes in a gentle, yet firm manner, and for instilling in me the confidence in my ability to lead the board and the District. During that year, and to this day, we have disagreed many times, sometimes very strongly, but we have always managed to work out our differences in private, without either of us feeling the necessity to declare victory or to humiliate the other. Upper St. Clair has won the Blue Ribbon Excellence in Education award ten times, an honor shared with only three other school districts in the nation, and nine of those have been awarded during Bill’s watch. He inspires others to do their very best: students, teachers, support people, cafeteria workers, secretaries, administrators, and even board members. He puts the needs of the children before the needs of all others; he involves the staff in the decision making
process—problem solving in Upper St. Clair has been bottom-up. Bill Pope treats everyone with whom he comes into contact with respect, even those with whom he strongly disagrees; he institutes development programs for all staff, not just teachers; he recognizes the accomplishments of all—students, teachers, staff, and board members; he continually promotes the District to anyone who will listen—the public, other school entities, state legislators. In short, he has been the soul of the Upper St. Clair School District. Perhaps one of the most telling facets of Bill’s leadership is that he does not guard his power; he shares the power, and he shares the glory that follows as well. He has fostered a climate of cooperation, camaraderie and purpose in Upper St. Clair. In how many districts does a principal feel sufficiently secure to call a board member for help on an article he is writing? In how many districts can a teacher call a board member to ask if she would join him in a presentation at a professional conference? Where else does a teacher or administrator feel free to disagree with a position a board member has taken and try to convince her where she is wrong? As I often tell my fellow board members and my husband, “Only in Upper St. Clair!” My tenure on the board is now at 20 years. I love the board work; I enjoy the give and take with other board members; I also enjoy matching wits with the staff. Bill Pope’s being at the helm in Upper St. Clair has kept me fresh and eager to carry out my work on the board for a very, very long time. Godspeed, Dr. William Pope, from a sometimes argumentative, frequently challenging, but always admiring board member and friend. Our School District has been blessed to have you, and your influence will be felt long after your retirement and long after the children whose lives you touched have left the School District you have so ably led.
Admiration from the Staff Mary Ann Stabile, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
Working with Dr. Pope as his executive
assistant during his tenure as Superintendent of Schools has been a very rewarding experience for me. I have so much admiration for Dr. Pope. He has such a caring demeanor, and he treats everyone with the utmost respect, whether you are a classified or professional employee of the School District. During his career at the School District, among a long list of other things, Dr. Pope de78
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
veloped a highly respected staff development program for all employees. Because of his belief that everyone should be provided with development opportunities, we have all benefited professionally and personally. The program that Dr. Pope developed has served as a model for many other school districts. Dr. Pope developed the District’s mission statement in 1993, and many of us have witnessed him truly live by the words included in it. Students who are troubled or need direction seek out Dr. Pope for his advice and guidance. Years after students have graduated they come back to visit Dr. Pope, thanking him for how he helped direct and even turn their lives around. I think it’s wonderful of Dr. Pope to take the time and personally send every student in the School District a birthday card. Dr. Pope has always put the students’ needs first. Dr. Pope is an inspiration to all of us at the School District. He is involved in so many organizations that help others such as
Summer 2003
the National MS Society and the Homeless Children’s Education Fund. He has successfully recruited the community, staff and students to help share in his efforts to help those less fortunate. It is amazing how many awards and commendations Dr. Pope has received throughout his personal and professional career, and he is so deserving of every one of them—from the recent 2003 True Champions for Children award from the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, and the 2002 Paul Varnum award from Phi Delta Kappa Three Rivers Chapter XIV, to the prestigious Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year 2002 awarded by the American Association of School Administrators. I have been fortunate to have worked with Dr. Pope for so many years, and I will truly miss him when he retires. I wish him and his family the best during his retirement, and I know that we will keep in touch and stay friends for many, many years to come.
Dr. William A. Pope Tribute Reflections from a Son
A Son’s Admiration
Ryan Pope
Adam Pope
I am so proud to say that I am the
My father’s achievements stand son of Dr. William A. Pope. I can rememas a culmination of years of hard work and dedication in a School District ber my first day of ninth grade, and my that he truly loved. When my father father’s first year as Superintendent of was hired to become Upper St. Clair’s Upper St. Clair. We just moved to the District from Bethel Park—not knowsuperintendent in 1989, I did not ing anyone. When I introduced myself fully understand the significance of his promotion—all I knew was that I was to other students and teachers, they inmoving away from my friends and the stantly smiled and said, “Is your dad Dr. childhood that I had grown accustomed Pope?” to which I replied, “Yes.” The responses varied from “I love your dad” to to in neighboring Bethel Park. It is only “Your dad is an incredible guy!” I cannot now, after years of life’s experiences and the recent beginning of my own career begin to tell you how great it felt to know that I am able to see the indelible legacy that other kids my age instantly admired that my father is leaving behind. There and respected my father. It made making were times that I had wished that he friends and feeling comfortable in a new were not the superintendent of the disschool a whole lot easier. Sure, being the Kim, Ryan and Adam with Dr. Pope (seated) trict that I was a student in, and I am sure superintendent’s son had its advantages as well as it disadvantages. When we had a school delay due to weather, there were times that he wished the same. My father always knew how I was the biggest hero but if the District didn’t call for a delay I was well I was doing in a class and the reason for why I was sent to the booed the minute I stepped foot on the morning bus. Despite it all, principal’s office, all before I even arrived home from school. Now I can say with the utmost affirmation that it was a situation, though at and because of it all, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have never seen a man so determined to make each day brighter times awkward and uncomfortable, I would not change if I could. and bring out the best in the people around him, especially the stuOn behalf of my family, I would like to personally thank the dents. My father loved his job and I truly believe that it was this love school administrators, curriculum leaders and the many teachers and determination that allowed him to become one of the most suc- who have supported my father throughout his tenure as superincessful superintendents in the nation. Everyday, I turn around and tendent. When this school year ends, and my father is saying his read about another achievement he’s earned or attend a ceremony tough good-byes, his head might appear to be hanging a little low of another accolade he is being presented. Sure, the school has won and his heart might be a little heavy. But, when he gazes back upon numerous Blue Ribbon awards during his tenure, and he was named his time spent in good old Upper St. Clair, his head will be held high Superintendent of the Year in 2002, but I believe the true factor in and his heart will beat proudly, for USC is a better place because of determining one’s success as an educator is the impression you leave him, and he is a better man because of it. on those you encounter during your career. Each and every time I bump into an Upper St. Clair alumni, one of the first questions they ask is always, “How is your dad do- Memories and Friendships ing?” I can honestly say that not once have I ever heard someone Will Stay With Us say something negative about my father or the job he has done as superintendent. How many people can you say that about? I can say Kim Pope I have so many memories of the past thirty-one years while that about one—my father, Dr. William A. Pope. Over the past 31 years in the Upper St. Clair School District, my my husband, Bill, has worked in Upper St. Clair. The School District father has touched so many people in one way or another that he will has been such an important part of our lives that when Bill leaves not easily be forgotten. I think if you asked him if he felt his time as Upper St. Clair School District for the last time on June 30 I will also superintendent was successful, he would say, “I left this place better be greatly affected. It has been quite a ride. I know that he is so proud than I found it, and that is all you can ask of a person.” He did not of the many accomplishments that have made this an innovative and just leave the School District better than he found it—he left it on thus award-winning School District. He doesn’t believe in taking the credit himself, but giving credit to top! I think Upper St. Clair is very lucky to have had him as superintendent for 14 years and my mom, and my brother and I are very others who he feels are responsible. I’m sure he is confident that the administrators, faculty and staff in place will carry on the tradition of lucky to have him as a husband and a father for our lives. excellence that we have all come to expect from Upper St. Clair. We are happy that we decided to make this our home 14 years ago when Bill became superintendent. Our children benefited from a wonderful education, and we were able to become a meaningful part of this community. We have all made lasting friendships that will stay with us always.
We have all made lasting friendships that will stay with us always.
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A Tribute to Dr. William A. Pope Upper St. Clair School District Superintendent The Doctor Isn’t In The recording said, “The Doctor isn’t in today.” I really needed to talk to him. It really was a shame. I dialed up his number the very next day. Unfortunately the recording turned out to be the same. I know now that the Doctor will not be in today. Nor will he be in tomorrow or any day from now on. The Doctor is finally closing up his practice. It’s hard for me to believe…that he will soon be gone. His prescriptions were always the very best. They helped to educate each patient into being well. You see…the lessons that he taught Were, and always will be, his very toughest sell. His accolades have been quite numerous, And his long list of titles just seem to never ever quit. Though when he packed them into his valise It really made, what you might say, a very airtight fit. If you’ve ever listened to any of his patients That he has seen for over thirty some odd years, They will tell you how he has helped them By giving proper treatments and calming all their fears. Now when his office door finally closes He will surely be leaving some big shoes to fill. Lets all hope that the incoming Doctor Will most assuredly be able to…fit the Bill. —Jay Walsh Photos by Nancy Barnard and Wayne Herrod.
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Profile
Janet Hays and Co. Dance Studio 71 McMurray Road, Upper St. Clair
412-833-1121 Michael J. Rutkowski, vice president
of investments at the Pittsburgh branch of UBS PaineWebber Inc., was named a UBS PaineWebber Pacesetter. This award distinguishes Mr. Rutkowski as an outstanding member of UBS PaineWebber’s sales force. Mr. Rutkowski, who joined UBS PaineWebber in 1991, has 12 years experience in the securities industry. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Mr. Rutkowski holds a Bachelor of Science degree in managerial economics. He lives in Upper St. Clair with his wife, Lora, and their three children.
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Call for a Complimentary Consult
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Best Wishes Dr. Pope on Your Retirement! The Hays and Mellick Families Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Advertisers Index Advertiser
Page
Action Builders ..................................................................................... 61 Alcorn Christie Insurance Agency ......................................................... 67 * Amel’s Restaurant ................................................................................. 76 * Angelo Associates, Inc. ........................................................................ 66 * ARAMARK .............................................................................................. 6 Ardolino’s Pizza .................................................................................... 69 Bedner’s Farm Market ........................................................................... 63 Betsy Ann American Chocolates ............................................................. 6 Bistro Bello Enoteca ............................................................................. 77 * Blackstone Fine Jewelers ........................................................................ 1 * Bruschetta’s .......................................................................................... 76 * Café Georgio’s ...................................................................................... 77 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service ................................................................... 6 Carlson Contractors, Inc. ...................................................................... 62 Carlson Wagonlit Travel ........................................................................ 43 Chinese Acupuncture Center of Pittsburgh ........................................... 71 * Clark Construction Company ................................................................ 60 * Coffey Contracting Company ................................................................ 66 Coldwell Banker–Waterdam Farms ....................................................... 13 * Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria, USC, South Hills, Peters Twp. Offices ............................................. 30, 31, 32 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate ............................ Back cover * Coleman Music Studios ....................................................................... 35 Coleman, Harry Photography ................................................................ 41 Crandall, D.M.D., Steven R. .................................................................. 21 * Cupelli & Cupelli .................................................................................. 53 Deckmasters Technologies ................................................................... 66 Ferry Electric Company ......................................................................... 75 * Gabler & Associates, P.C. ....................................................................... 6 Gateway Engineers ............................................................................... 22 * George Girty Landscape Design ........................................................... 62 Ghelarducci’s Garden Center ................................................................. 69 Golden Rule Antiques ........................................................................... 71 * Gurecka, Joseph L., D.M.D., FAAHD .................................................... 37 Harmon, F. E., Inc. ................................................................................. 22 Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. .............................................................................. 5 * Henderson Brothers, Inc. ...................................................................... 10 * Herman J. Heyl Florist .......................................................................... 41 * Howard Hanna Real Estate Services ................................................ 14, 15 * Howard Hanna-Susan Highley .............................................................. 23 * Howard Hanna-Diane Horvath, GRI ...................................................... 55 Jacksons Restaurant-Rotisserie-Bar ....................................................... 77 * Janet Hays & Company Dance Studio ................................................... 81 Jaro Interiors, Inc. ................................................................................. 58 Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh .................................. 54 * Kerr Dentistry ........................................................................................ 43 * Lesko Builders and Remodeling ........................................................... 61
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Louis Anthony Jewelers .................................................Back inside cover * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ...................................................................... 42 MarcMen Enterprises, Inc. .................................................................... 27 Mont Granite, Inc. .........................................................Front inside cover Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center & Municipal Golf Course ...................... 5 Nancy O’Dell Interior Design, Inc. ......................................................... 29 Northwood Realty-Bonnie Detwiler & Marlene McNaughton ................ 58 Oxford Mortgage, Inc. ........................................................................... 26 P & W SAAB.......................................................................................... 28 Pasquarelli’s Restaurant & Lounge ....................................................... 76 * Pentagon Printing Corporation ............................................................. 33 Peters Concrete & Stone Company ....................................................... 67 Petrelli & Sons. A., Inc. ........................................................................ 75 Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 43 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ......................................................... 42 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet ......................................................................... 13 Preferred Primary Care Physicians ....................................................... 29 * Prudential Preferred Realty-Route 19 South Office ................................ 83 Prudential Preferred Realty-Terry Abbott ............................................... 26 * Prudential Preferred Realty-Judy Ward ................................................. 11 * Regis McQuaide & Co. Master Remodelers, Inc. .................................. 65 Roberta’s Skin Care ............................................................................... 81 * Robin Richards Hand Colored Photography ......................................... 35 * Rusmur Floors ...................................................................................... 84 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ........................................................... 62 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 76 Shadyside Academy .............................................................................. 74 * Silk Road Gourmet Chinese Restaurant ................................................ 76 South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, P.C. ................................ 37 St. Clair Fitness & Racquet Club ........................................................... 55 * St. Clair Hospital ................................................................................... 51 * State Farm Insurance-Cindy Brophy...................................................... 42 Stout Carpeting, Inc. ............................................................................. 64 Sulkowski, D.M.D., William .................................................................. 53 * Swing Line Windows, Inc. .................................................................... 61 Tambellini Restaurant/Bridgeville ......................................................... 77 The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Health ...................................... 73 Tri State Window ................................................................................... 75 Wellington Real Estate .......................................................................... 39 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage .................................................................. 2 Westminster Presbyterian Church ......................................................... 57 Wild Birds Unlimited ............................................................................ 66 Window & Kitchen Specialist ................................................................ 65 WoodsCreek Garden Design ................................................................. 61 * You’re Invited ........................................................................................ 57 Zubasic Bros. Roofing .......................................................................... 75
*The above VIP advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 17 issues.
Coupon Clippers Coming Valuable coupons for your use—Fall 2003 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Keeping things you like—Adding things to keep your interest
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Summer 2003
Terry Abbott
Lisa DeBartolo
Barbara Baker/ Bob Main
Bob Dini
Lynn Banbury
Sharon Capan/ Bill Holden
Lora Le Clark
Performance Out Sells Promises! When you list your home with a Prudential Preferred Realty agent, your home will be center stage with an Online Virtual Tour! Interior and exterior views of your home 24 hours a day mean more exposure and a quicker sale! Call our Rt. 19 South office today for outstanding results!
Suzanne Gruneberg
Jackie Hamilton
Liz Hoyson
Sally Kauper
Barbara Kurdys-Miller
Elva Marotta
Shirley McGinnis
Cindy Pace/ Jodi Bilski
Wendy Piquette
Bryan Russo
Chris Sammons
Margie Schneider
Judy Ward
Ruth Weigers
Frank Conroy
Diane Damian/ Helane Tobin
Alexis Fitch
Wayne Freund
Gloria Hickton
Pat Hogan/ Mary Ann Zupon
Judy Keener
Florine Kelly
Betsy Raber
JoAnn Robb
Jane Compagnone, Manager
Preferred Realty Independently Owned and Operated
1679 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Rt. 19 South Office • Call (412) 833-7700 • www.PrudentialPreferredRealty.com Summer 2003
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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R
usmur f loors
“You Stand On Our Good Name Every Day!” – SOUTH – – NORTH – – EAST – 500 Station Street 3230 Babcock Boulevard 2047 Golden Mile Hwy. Bridgeville, PA 15017 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Pittsburgh, PA 15239 84(412)UPPER Summer 2003 221-6366ST. CLAIR TODAY (412) 364-7330 (724) 325-1900
– WEST – 996 Brodhead Road Moon Twp., PA 15108 (412) 262-4707
– WHITEHALL – 4720 Clairton Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15236 (412) 884-3600
Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date Shown in stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold, special time-lapse bezel with fliplock clasp and extension link Oyster bracelet. Pressure-proof to 1,000 feet. Also available in 18kt yellow gold.
Rolex,
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COLDWELL BANKER www.pittsburghmoves.com
Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes! No Lender Fees Mortgage
Any House. Anytime. Outstanding Executive Residence! Gourmet kitchen, 2 sty greatroom, 5/6 BR, huge GR & guest apt, amenities galore! Genie Gooding 412-833-8000 $679,000
Anywhere.
Now with over 10,000 homes for sale! Virtually every home from every Realtor.
“Old Trotwood� Charming stone Colonial on parklike setting, 4 BR, 4.5 BA, den, Familyroom, quality throughout! Nancy Heffernan 412-833-8000 $565,000
Exquisite Cape Cod in Westminister Manor! Fabulous kitchen & master bath, 4 BR, 3+3 BA, FR, GR, large private yard. Amy Dias 412-833-5405 $560,000
Beautiful Provincial, 4 BR, 3+2 BA, den, FR fplc, GR, full basement with bath built-ins, 3 car garage, treed lot! Angela Mize 412-833-8000 $485,000
Quality throughout! Bleached oak kitchen, FR, walk-out GR, master suite fplc + vaulted cieling, private setting. Monica Mahla 412-831-5555 $379,900
Charming Tudor in Deerfield Manor! High end updates inside & out! Fplc in Mstr BR + FR, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, Gameroom! Jim Walsh 412-833-5405 $242,500
Spacious brk ranch bordering cntry club! LR wall of windows overlooks 6th fairway, 4 BR, 3.5 BA, den, GR, beautiful lot! Kathy Enick 412-833-8000 $349,000
Unique home for lge family in Brookside Farms! FR, den, GR, 6 BR, 5 full BA, separate dwelling for office or playhouse! Barbara Cusick 412-833-5405 $319,900
Lovely 4 BR, 4 BA ranch in Westminister Manor! Beautiful marble floors in kitchen + FR, GR, wine cellar! Norma Bishop 412-833-5405 $269,900
Beautiful Colonial on a beautiful lot! Familyroom fireplace, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, wrap around deck, community pool! Kathy Enick 412-833-8000 $247,900
Quality built multi level Contemporary, 4 BR, 2.5 BA, Familyroom, Gameroom, Livingroom fireplace, beautiful lot! Linda Paolino 412-833-5405 $219,000
Meticulously maintained and decorated 4 BR, 2.5 BA Provincial, FR + GR, screened porch overlooks water garden! Val Scenna 412-833-8000 $214,500
Lovely 2 story Colonial on cul de sac. Ceramic tile entry, Familyroom, den, Gameroom, 5 BR, 2.5 BA, 2 patios! Maria & Joe Lane 412-833-8000 $199,900
Many new updates in this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath 2 story, Familyroom on 1st floor, central air, 2 car garage. Ethel Levine 412-833-8000 $188,900
SOME PEOPLE THINK ANY REAL ESTATE COMPANY WILL DO. OTHERS EXPECT MORE
1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTE
POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
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