SUMMER 2006 by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

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Summer 2006

• Volume 12

•

Issue 2

Features and Around the Township 12

Knowing Your Neighborhood—Trotwood Manor West Resurrecting an association encourages a history lesson.

Water’s Edge Be the first to read about the zoo’s new polar bear exhibit.

Caroline Wired Up Should we impart our beloved technological advances on those early pioneers?

The Orr Homestead

Youth Volunteers at Gilfillan Farm

Firefighters’ Ball at The Grand Residence

Asian Studies Program

A local historic landmark receives a facelift.

Just Down the Road—the Washington County Fair Mary Lynne Spazok suggests an August daytrip.

Township 14

Community Day 2006—Saturday, May 20 Don’t miss this community-involved annual event!

USC Community Recreation Center Progress Report An overview on the ad hoc advisory group’s report.

Wabi-Sabi The library helps you decorate with tips of simple beauty.

USC Township Bulletin Board Township news to read in an easy-to-follow format.

Smoke Detectors What the USCVFD wants you to understand and practice.

School District 54

The District Embraces a New Supervision Model Dr. John Bornyas discusses professional staff development.

Breakfast with Gorbachev School Board Director Barbara Bolas meets Mikhail Gorbachev and discusses education.

USC School District Thailand Exchange Program This exchange program offers exciting cultural opportunities.

Did You Know? A recurring column letting you know about our students and teachers.

Summer School 2006 Enhance your child’s summer—enroll him in these specially-designed workshops and labs.

Advertising Guides 27 38 42 74

Dining Pinebridge Commons Home and Garden Summer Activities

Cover 20

This cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is underwritten by Providence Point. Providence Point is the new continuing care retirement community that will provide seniors with housing, hospitality, and healthcare on a 32-acre campus in the South Hills. On pages 20 and 21, discover why local seniors are now making the decision to join this beautiful new community. Summer 2006 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Publishers Dr. James D. Lombardo Superintendent of Schools Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager Steering Committee Thomas A. Labanc School District Representative Mark S. Mansfield Senior Assistant Township Manager Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Paul K. Fox, Managing Editor Cindy Kane, Township Associate Editor Terry Kish, School District Associate Editor

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 46th 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.

School Board Directors William M. Sulkowski, President

Ched Mertz, President, Ward 4

Mark G. Trombetta, Vice President

Bill Bates, Vice President, At Large

Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Laurie Buker, Advertising Associate Kathy Christie, Advertising Associate Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Allen, Steve Boehmer, Barbara Bolas, Dr. John Bornyas, Karen Boston, Priscilla Andre-Colton, Lauren Davidovich, Sandy Drozda, Alex Ellison (YWG), Janet Fisfis, K. Epp Frenette, Scott Freund, Meghan Herrod, Wayne Herrod, Beth Hornak, Walter Jarosh, Kathy Kasunich, David Kish, Bill Littrell, Lynn Rubin, Maria Simon (YWG), Ron Sivillo, Mary Lynne Spazok, Nancy Sakino Spears, Jessica Spencer, Jay Walsh, and Jim and Sheryl Whalen. Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for this community magazine. A special thank you to USCHS students Alex Ellison and Cullyn Thomson for their help with this issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY.

The 46th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint

publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Kenneth L. Brown, Ward 2

Carol B. Coliane

Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3

Glenn G. Groninger

Frank E. Marsh, Ward 5

Daniel A. Iracki

Karen M. McElhinny, At Large

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine.

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. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses

in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284. The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Fall 2006 issue and will be published in August 2006. 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, 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. Add $10 to cover international mailings.

Deadline for articles and advertising for the Fall 2006 issue is June 1, 2006. Article Information Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681 email: ldudzinski@uscsd.k12.pa.us Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 email: cdemarco@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Printed by Pentagon Printing Corporation 18 West Steuben Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412-922-0422 • Fax: 412-922-2922 6

Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1

Angela B. Petersen

School District: 412-833-1600 Township: 412-831-9000

David E. Bluey Barbara L. Bolas

Jeffrey W. Joyce

Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592

Township Board of Commissioners

Summer 2006

Visit our Website:

www.twpusc.org/magazine

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Discrimination • Harassment FMLA • ADA

Training & Investigations Mediation & Arbitration

“Discourage Litigation – Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can.” Abraham Lincoln Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Dr. James D. Lombardo

Douglas A. Watkins

Welcome to the 46th edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our summer issue. This issue, which includes our annual Community Day coverage, is special to our Township and School District as it tells of a day where the citizens of Upper St. Clair come together to share activity, friendship, and community spirit. In addition to information about Community Day that you’ll find on pages 14-18, this issue includes articles on our Township’s advancements, our neighborhoods and historical landmarks, the youth of our schools and our schools’ programs, and wonderful feature stories that you will not only find entertaining, but also educational. The Township of Upper St. Clair is unveiling its 2005 Comprehensive Plan. This plan, in effect through 2015, puts forth various goals and will help drive future development of the Township. Please see information on page 32. Boyce Mayview Park, and its development, is a component of the potential future planning for our Township. The Township commissioners voted to move forward with phase one of the Active Area and Fields Development Plan. Continuing consideration is being given to a recreational center for our residents. Please see the article on page 29. The Upper St. Clair School District is involved in a work in progress to provide Upper St. Clair students with programs that will immerse them in cultural exchange with other countries. One such development in the evolving Asian Studies Program is the Thai Exchange Program that will bring students together from Upper St. Clair and Bangkok, Thailand. See articles on pages 55 and 58. Additionally, the District’s commitment to professional development of the teaching staff continues with the implementation of a new supervision and evaluation model, which will be put into practice beginning with the 2006-07 school year. See page 54 for an article. So, while this edition has lots to draw you in and keep you reading, take the time to join us on Community Day, Saturday, May 20 (rain or shine) for an active day filled with wonderful future memories that you’ll be sure to share with family and friends. And remember to smile for our magazine’s staff photographer, who’ll be around to capture those memories! Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Dr. James D. Lombardo Superintendent of Schools

Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager T O D A Y CELEBRATING 11 YEARS OF PUBLICATION

School District of Upper St. Clair 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org

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Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spirited Youth Volunteers at Mary Lynne Spazok

Jean G. Brown

If you haven’t yet toured historic Gilfillan Farm, then a visit during

Upper St. Clair Community Day 2006 is a must! Pure tranquility is nestled in the woods just off Route 19 less than one minute from South Hills Village. Take pleasure in the fragrant, whispering pines. Serenity is yours just beyond the sun-burnished barn. Gaze upon the panorama of peaceful, fertile fields iced with a crystal clear azure sky. This is to appreciate the homesteaders dream—the lure of Mother Earth. Preservationist and family matriarch Jean G. Brown pledges that upcoming generations will realize, by means of experience, the Gilfillan Family heritage. Jean asserts, “We are fortunate to have our young people enthusiastically involved in the past, present, and future of our community.” Therefore, The Historical Society of Upper St. Clair is determined to ensure that history shall prevail over urban sprawl. Whether 1897 or 2006, this working farm needs tending. Thank goodness for our spirited youth volunteers. Who are they and why exactly do they come? A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic, bio-medical engineer Rachel Heins administers to the day-to-day homestead operations. Rachael comments, “We really enjoyed our first season of farming. The response from the community is especially warming from trail walkers who stop to chit-chat. Hopefully, the community will continue to enjoy the farm as much as we enjoy farming it.” Crop scheduling and general upkeep are just a few of the tasks Rachael coordinates with youth volunteers 10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Gilfillan

Nathanael Heins (brother), Brittany Clifford, and Tessa Yannetti. For 2006, the organic planting of the aromatic herbs rosemary, basil, sage, thyme, and parsley is planned. When it comes to farming, dynamic teamwork affords Rachael a flourishing outcome. Brothers Brendan and Shaun Brown enjoy manual labor and farm machinery operation. The well-known John Deere logo is a must for these gentlemen farmers’ denim. Brendan, a USCHS senior (college bound in September) and Shaun, a junior, are diverse students whose hectic to-do lists include academics, on-the-go social schedules, and varsity sports. Let’s begin with Brendan, who states, “A farmer’s work is never done!” So, how did Brendan become interested in agriculture? “My personal history with the farm is, of course, due to a loving relationship with my Grandmother Brown. It is a pleasure to get away from a bit of who I am, and change into a farmer! I became interested in farming at a very early age. Living just across Orr Road, I would always look out the window to see Gilfillan. And naturally, like all youngsters, I was curious. I began asking questions and on occasion would roam through the fields, just to get a look. Today, I enjoy not seeing huge houses or mini malls, but farmland on this site. The best part about farming is a sense of self worth and achievement. Although the labor can be very grueling at times, a farm workout is very beneficial, especially during football’s off-season. Hard work, sweat, and blood have enabled me to realize personal responsibility. Lifting heavy equipment, such as a 300-pound plow, is not the easiest

Summer 2006

Sydney Brown and Mindy Brown

thing to do. This past summer, when Shaun and I harvested 100 dozen ears of corn along with assorted fresh vegetables, I knew I had accomplished something good. That feeling got even better when friends and relatives ate the vegetables and enjoyed them. Above and beyond the planting of zucchini, watermelon, and pumpkins, there is wood to chop, fields to mow, and the constant cleaning and repair of the equipment, barn, and out buildings. When the daily work is done, it’s always nice to sit back and take pride in individual success. For me, a pleasant sight is stalks of summer corn sharing their space with blossoming sun flowers swaying in the breeze. At the end of a sizzling summer day, hanging out in the cool of the evening is pure perfection.” Come late summer, sibling Shaun knows that between college visitations and sports, there will be twice as many chores and half as much time. Shaun states, “Since Brendan did a large amount of the work, relatives and volunteers will have to pitch in a lot more once he leaves for college. Fortunately, there are many willing to help.” Shaun’s interest in the operation of heavy farm equipment is a major incentive for him. Operating the John Deere tractor with the plow, manure spreader, and harrow attachments is a favored activity. “At what age did the agriculture interest you?” I asked Shaun. He stated, “I have been interested in the farm ever since we moved across the street from Gilfillan when I was a little boy. Growing up, I always liked to go over and see the animals and talk to Margaret and Alexander Gilfillan. When I was 14, I began to do bigger chores on the farm for my Grandma Brown, like working in the barn and cutting the grass. There’s a lot of work that needs to be done in the spring, summer, and fall months. On average, I work at the farm one to three times a week. But in the winter, there’s little to do. The fact that the homestead has been in our family for so long makes working here meaningful. It’s rewarding to see how happy my grandparents are that people have taken an interest and are willing to lend a hand.”

The Upper St. Clair Historical Society has invited the 8th Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line to re-enact everyday camp life of the 18th century Revolutionary War soldier. In 100% wool, cotton, or linen uniforms, soldiers’ equipment is accurate right down to the pewter buttons, tin canteens, and lead dice (made from old musket balls). Help cook stew on an open campfire while learning the importance of musket artillery to the survival of the soldiers.

Martika Brown

Dressed in homespun attire, Martika Brown enriches the open house venue. School-age children are enthralled, but quickly learn that mundane chores such as the hand washing of dishes and hanging laundry outside to dry were routine. For fun though, offspring amused themselves with homemade wooden toys along with simple hand sewn dolls. Outdoor amusement included playing the lawn game Croquet (wooden mallets, balls, and wickets) or pencil sketching familiar countryside scenes. Forget the technology of 2006; 1857 blackberries were planted, picked, and preserved!

Youth volunteers (left to right): Martika Brown, Shaun Brown, Tessa Yannetti, Brittany Clifford, and Brendan Brown 8th Pennsylvania Regiment

Mark your calendar for USC Community Day—Saturday, May 20. Education for all by means of spirited participation is the paramount ambition of Jean Brown. From noon to 3 p.m., appreciate our community’s youth volunteers and the legacy of Gilfillan by partaking in the specialty activities of the day, lawn croquet, and tractor drawn hayrides. Handicap accessible, parking is available on site. There is no parking on Orr Road. 

Wishing to volunteer or become a member of the Upper St. Clair Historical Society? Contact Jean Brown at 412-833-2323. Side Note: Request for a private tour of ten individuals or less may be made directly to Jean Brown. Weather permitting, tours will be conducted on a limited, first-come first-served basis during the months of December, January, and February.

A History Lesson of the Gilfillan House and Farm

John Gilfillan (1826-1885), the son

Alexander and Annie had three chilof John and the grandson of Alexander dren: John, Margaret, and Alexander. Gilfillan, settled on 400 acres in Upper When Annie died of pneumonia in 1903, St. Clair in the 1770s. following the death of his mother in that John married Eleanor Ewing in 1849 same year, Alexander and his three young and purchased Adam Patterson’s land grant children moved from their home on Orr property of 135 acres. They lived in the Road to the Gilfillan House. The two Patterson’s log house located where the maiden aunts cared for his children. headquarters of Consolidation Coal now John and Alexander, following in their stands. They built the Gilfillan House father and grandfather’s footsteps, bebetween 1855-57, using lumber that came attorneys. Margaret graduated from was cut from this property. The bricks Chatham College and remained at home were hand-molded and fired locally and to care for her brothers after the deaths the window glass was hand-rolled in the of their aunts. None of the three of them area. An addition to the house was added married. when indoor plumbing became available. Margaret shared her wealth of knowlThe springhouse is the only remaining edge and memories of the Gilfillan House Photo by Nancy Barnard structure from the Patterson Farm. and Farm with elementary school stuJohn and Eleanor Gilfillan had five dents each year when she visited USC children: Margaret, Loretta, Jane Lyle schools for a presentation. Margaret (the (who died at age three), Alexander, and Eleanor. Margaret last surviving offspring of Alexander and Annie) died in and Eleanor did not marry and lived their entire lives at the May 2001 at 100 years of age. She left the 15-acre Gilfillan Gilfillan property. Loretta married Robert Frazer, an attorney. Homestead and Farm buildings to the Historical Society of Alexander married Annie Martha Boyd in 1897 and bui1t the Upper St. Clair.  home at 123 Orr Road. Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Trotwood Manor West—A Community Sandy Drozda During the 80s, my husband, Steve, and I were happily rearing

our three young children on a one-way street in a home that was full of “Mt. Lebanon Charm.” Translated: three bedrooms, one bathroom, and radiators. Life was good. In 1993 we experienced several changes. Steve’s latest hobby, orchid growing, had taken over the entire basement and every flat surface in our kitchen. But most significantly, our two daughters had reached an age where their one bedroom with its one closet and our one shared bathroom wasn’t big enough for the both of them and their raging hormones that followed them around like ever present thunder clouds. It was time to move! We found the perfect home in Upper St. Clair’s Trotwood Manor West. Enough space to eliminate the daily drama with our girls, space for a safe haven for our younger son who had grown weary of the daily drama, a mudroom where Steve could put his current collection of orchids, and a backyard with “greenhouse potential” for his future collection. All of the houses on the street were lovely with large yards and we got to know our terrific neighbors on either side of us—the Van Cleves and the Hamiltons. Life was good again, and when we walked out to retrieve our mail each day we would wave to the people in cars that went by, assuming they were neighbors. Nine years passed quickly and more changes occurred. Our children left the nest, the greenhouse was built, and the Hamiltons moved away and were replaced by the Nederlofs, another set of terrific neighbors. What hadn’t changed though was that when we walked out to retrieve our mail, we would still wave to the cars that went by assuming they were neighbors. This all changed on one of our walks to the mailbox—inside was an invitation to the Trotwood Manor West first annual block party. In December 2000, a fireball of energy arrived in our neighborhood from Kenya via San Diego and Chicago. Lorraine Grogan moved to Trotwood Ridge with her husband, Jon, and their young son, Aidan. To put it simply, Lorraine never met a stranger. She quickly got to know the neighbors around her and she actively sought out playmates for Aidan. Through the USC Newcomers Club she met Julia Zaitz and began to play Bunco on a regular basis with Julia and set some of the sio va , and Sue Ra lander, Tanya Sturm other women Neighbors Marcy Ky en treats for adults and children up Hallowe

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

Trotwood neighborhood Halloween parade

on the surrounding streets. These friendships grew and the group began to expand from Bunco to a block party for Trotwood Ridge residents in 2001, the Trotwood Manor West first annual block party in 2002, and the famous “Twelve Drinks of Christmas” in December of that same year. What started out as a small group began to grow and include more and more of the residents in Trotwood Manor West. Life was good for the Grogans, but in summer 2004 there was something that was bothering Lorraine—the shabby condition of our neighborhood’s entry gates. Taking matters into her own hands, Lorraine went to the Township to demand remediation. What she found was that the neighborhood associations were responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of their own entry gates. Lorraine went to the “Bunco squad” and suggested starting a homeowners’ association. Sandy Trotwood Manor West Neighborhood Association board members (left to right): San Boring, a person Lorraine Grogan, secreta dy Boring, vice president; ry; John VanCleve, preside nt; of energy and Amanda McQuillan, trea surer enthusiasm equal to Lorraine, immediately joined Lorraine’s charge to help build interest for this new idea, which turned out to be not so new. Many years earlier, when Trotwood Manor West was under development, several of the new homeowners at that time established the original Trotwood Manor West Homeowners Association. Mel and Jo Henninger were part of the founding group and Jo was able to share some of the files of this early association’s accounts, minutes, and other items of interest.

The first dues were collected in June 1974 and the association’s expressed purpose was: • To promote the best interests of all residents within the Trotwood Manor West Plan, Upper St. Clair Township, Pennsylvania, through orderly development and proper maintenance of this community, and • To promote good fellowship within our neighborhood. At that time, many of the concerns were different than what they are today. The Trotwood Manor West plan was established in 1967 by the Virginia Manor Farms Company. In 1974, the various entrances to the plan were incomplete. While some of the foundations on Harrogate and Trotwood Ridge Roads were completed, building construction halted due to the stressed financial position of some of the builders. These unsightly open foundations were magnets for young vandals. The government and publicity committee presented formalized communication on the open foundations to the Township and Virginia Manor Farms Company. The association’s beautification committee took responsibility for the upkeep of the entrance gates and the purchase and installation of the brass plaques for the walls. The membership committee collected the $10 annual dues from each homeowner and kept them informed of local happenings. The social committee sponsored the annual neighborhood progressive dinner, picnics, and the Halloween parade. In 1974, there were 80 families living in Trotwood Manor. Minutes from association meetings revealed debate on entry gate lighting, large quantities of donuts eaten at the Halloween parade, and a commitment of the residents to create a strong community. Years passed and the association continued to thrive through 1988. The neighborhood began the inevitable “turn” as children left home and job transfers became prevalent. From 1989 to 1999 the association began to hibernate, waking up from time to time to pay contracting firms for minimal maintenance around the entrance walls or to sponsor

an occasional neighborhood picnic. The association also periodically enlisted the services of Katie Davis or Judy Shock to create a neighborhood directory. In 1999 the association’s bank account was closed and the balance was converted to travelers checks to prevent bank service fees from eroding the small remaining balance. These travelers checks were used to continue the payment to contractors for weeding and clearing debris from the entry gates. By 2000, the funds were depleted. On February 1, 2005, the new Trotwood Manor West Neighborhood Association was formally launched and the association’s slate of officers was unanimously approved—John Van Cleve, president; Sandy Boring, vice president; Amanda McQuillan, treasurer; Lorraine Grogan, secretary, and Jon Grogan, parliamentarian. When the next meeting was held on February 27, all 16 committee chairs were filled by eager volunteers. The mission of the Trotwood Manor West Neighborhood Association is to “foster community spirit and pride through the organization of social events and other neighborhood activities, as well as the maintenance of the neighborhood entrances.” Simple and direct, this mission is readily visible to the 144 families now residing in Trotwood Manor West. The entrance walls are freshly painted and tended to by the wall maintenance committee chaired by Jeff Wenk. The children enjoy organized Easter egg hunts and Halloween walks. The Summer Backyard Tour, the “Twelve Drinks of Christmas” that has evolved into the Neighborhood Winter Tour, and the September block party are events that we look forward to every year. Progressive dinners, Bunco, Mah Johngg, and Fantasy Football are activities that keep many of us interacting throughout the year as well. Our Caring and Welcome to TMW Committee enables us to reach out to and include our neighbors who may need a helping hand or who are new to Trotwood Manor West. Most importantly, but what may not be as readily visible as our well kept entrance walls, is our spirit of community. 

Maureen Cavanaugh The Proof is in the Performance • Top Producer • National Sales Excellence Awardee • Residential Relocation Specialist • Listing Leader and Sales Leader

412-833-3600 ext. 226 Visit my website: www.howardhanna.com

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28th Annual Community Day—May 20, 2006 Pantherland—Where Dreams Come True

Annual Community Day Schedule

Activities Mud Volleyball will begin at 6:30 a.m. This annual event for high school juniors and seniors kicks off the 28th Annual Community Day Celebration. Run for Fun will begin at 9 a.m. sharp! Please pre-register by completing the form on page 16 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. Warmups at 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, and follow Panther Pass back up to the high school. It’s All About Games from 1-2:15 p.m. at the Municipal basketball courts. Fort Couch and Boyce Middle School students can participate in a timed-obstacle course and other challenges. A water balloon toss for middle school-aged students will take place at 2:30 p.m. The annual Community Day Treasure Hunt will be held at noon. Clues will be displayed at Booth # 1 immediately following 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. Visit the farm for house tours, wagon rides, to see the farm animals, and much more. Country Fair Games will be held noon-3 p.m. at the Gilfillan Farm House. Join us for crafts, games, and special activities designed for children up to grade four. The Fun and Kid-Friendly Inflatable Attraction and Rainbow Express Train will be located in the library parking lot noon-4 p.m. These activities will be offered 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 p.m. Watch for information on pre-purchasing your duck, or buy your duck at the Community Foundation booth on Community Day. For more information, see page 24. 

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

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 16 9 a.m. (Warmups at 8:30 a.m.) ............................ Run for Fun High School Stadium Entrance 10-11 a.m. ........................................... “Hottest Dog” Contest Stage Area—Registration form on page 16 10:45 a.m....................................... Three on Three Basketball Municipal Basketball Court 11 a.m. ........................................................................ Bake Off Stage Area (See page 17) 11 a.m.-5 p.m. ........................................................ Fair Booths Open Entertainment 11:30 a.m. ...................................................................... Parade Noon ....................................................................... Pony Rides Behind Recreation Center 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. ...... Fun and Kid-Friendly Inflatable Attraction and Rainbow Express Train Library Parking Lot Noon-5 p.m. ............................................................Petting Zoo Library Parking Lot 1-2:15 p.m. .............................................. It’s All About Games Municipal Basketball Courts Water Balloon Toss at 2:30 p.m. 1 p.m. .................................................................. Diaper Derby Municipal Little League Field Registration form on page 16 1:30 p.m. ..................................................Run for Fun Awards Stage Area 3 p.m. ....................................................................... Duck Race McLaughlin Run Creek

Shuttle Bus Parking

Shuttle bus service will be available to the Municipal Building every half-hour starting at 10 a.m. from the following locations: • Boyce Middle School • Fort Couch Middle School • Gilfillan Farm • USC High School • Westminster Presbyterian Church (South Lot) Please be advised that permit parking only will be permitted in the Public Works parking lot.

Community Day 2006 Committee Heads and Co-Heads Students Auxiliary–Josh Jackson and Eric Elliott Booths–Rachel Hornak and Maret Seitz Diaper Derby–Kristen Colelli and Jenny Malarkey Entertainment–Anna Kate Babnik and Claire Aloe It’s All About Games (middle school)– Kathleen Buehler and Athena Castro Mud Volleyball–Tom Tawoda and Mohit Kudaravelli

Parking Lots–Dan Moellenberg and Andrew Paik Run for Fun–Emma Schmidt and Katie Orchowski Parade–Melissa Kaduck and Neha Mehta Publicity–Danielle Murphy and Calli Gaul T-Shirts–John Palermo and Matt McClintock Three on Three Basketball–Brian Liu and Andrew Reilly

Township and School District Representatives Cable 7–Glenn Ward Township of Upper St. Clair– Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services George Kostelich, Superintendent of Operations Dave Kutschbach, Superintendent of Projects Ronald J. Pardini, Chief of Police United Senior Citizens–Amy Kerman Upper St. Clair Historical Society Gilfillan Homestead and Farm–Jean Brown Baker PTA: Treasure Hunt–Lisa Davis Eisenhower PTA: Run for Fun–Rebecca Newman and Maria Lazur Streams PTA: Diaper Derby–Kristen Fagelson

Middle Schools: It’s All About Games–Carla Roehner PTA Cooperative Effort–Parade Baker Elementary School–Lisa Davis Boyce Middle School–Vicky McKenna Eisenhower Elementary School–Janine Milinski-Gross Fort Couch Middle School–Carla Roehner Streams Elementary School–Kelli Winseck PTA Council: Programs and Publicity–Carla Roehner Upper St. Clair High School– Danny Holzer, Director of Student Activities Sheila Bartlett, Assistant Director of Student Activities 1830 Log House Association–Kim Guzzi

Fair Booths, Open 11 a.m.-5 p.m.—Plan to Spend the Day Our numerous community organizations ask you to stop by their booths. There will be something for everyone!

Treasure Hunt

Games for All Ages

s t f a r C USC Gear & Garb

Bake Sale

Food, and More Food

Duck Race

Sports Public Service Challenges Activities & Displays

Patrons: Thanks to the following patrons for their financial support of Community Day! Bower Hill Auto Body Chuck’s Complete Auto Service Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Lorenzato Automotive Service National City Bank Pasquarelli’s Restaurant Rusmur Floors Carpet One South Hills Financial Group

St. Clair Country Club T.A. Ward Constructors, Inc. Taylor Rental/Party Plus The Gateway Engineers, Inc. Traffic Control Equipment & Supplies Co., Inc. Upper St. Clair Chamber of Commerce ZEP Manufacturing Co./Ray Santomo

A Community Day wrap-up, including additional patrons will appear in the Fall 2006 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Community Day 2006—Pantherland-Where Dreams Come True USC’s “Hottest Dog” Contest Community Day—May 20, 2006 10-11 a.m. at Stage Area Sponsored by Howard Hanna of USC

Community Day Run for Fun When: Saturday, May 20, 2006. Warmups begin at 8:30 a.m.

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.

FIVE CATEGORIES OF COMPETITION

Advanced Registration: $3 registration fee prior to

Prizes will be awarded to the top three dogs in each category. All participants must register in advance.

May 12, 2006. Mail registration to the address below. Pre-registered runners should pick up their numbers between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. on the day of the race at the high school track parking lot on Truxton Drive.

Name: ________________________________________

Late Registration: $4 the day of the race. Registration will be held

Address:_______________________________________ Phone Number: ________________________________

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 and warmups before the start of the race.

Dog’s Name: ___________________________________

Awards will be presented at the stage area at 1:30 p.m. Race results

Category Dog is entered in: _______________________

will be posted at the Recreation Center on Community Day.

• Best Dressed Dog • Best Pet Trick • Most Colorful Dog • Cutest Puppy • Owner and Dog Look-Alike

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: Mary Kay O’Hare at 412-833-3600 Please register prior to May 12, 2006. Proceeds benefit the Free Care Fund of Children’s Hospital.

Diaper Derby

The Diaper Derby, a crawling race, will be held in the outfield area of the Municipal baseball field. The Diaper Derby will be held at 1 p.m. sharp! Proud parents can enter their babies in 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 a prize. Registration may be done in advance by mail or by bringing a registration form to the event.

Diaper Derby Registration Form Name of baby _____________________________________ Address __________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Telephone ________________________________________

Come run for fun and exercise. Bring the whole family!

Medals 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.)

• 8 & under • 9 to 11 • 12 to 14 • 15 to 19

q Female

Age as of May 20, 2006 q less than 6 months

q between 6 months and 1 year

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.

_________________________________________________ Date

Return this form by May 12, 2006 to:

Department of Recreation and Leisure Services Township of Upper St. Clair 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

• 8 & under • 9 to 11 • 12 to 14 • 15 to 19

• 20 to 29 • 30 to 39 • 40 & over

Run For Fun Registration Form Name____________________________________________ Age as of May 20, 2006 ____________

Sex ___________

Address __________________________________________ Telephone Number ________________________________ Make checks payable to:

Return this form by May 12, 2006 to:

Rebecca Newman 3317 Brookdale Drive Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

CONSENT RELEASE FORM: I agree to hold the Township of Upper

• 20 to 29 • 30 to 39 • 40 to 50 • 51 & over

Upper St. Clair Community Day

q Male

Parent’s Signature

FEMALE

MALE

Summer 2006

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)

Community Day 2006—Pantherland-Where Dreams Come True

The Gilfillan Heritage

THIRD Annual USC Bake-Off!

Doors are Open for Community Day—May 20

Community Day - May 20th, 2006 Sponsored by Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Kids, don t miss this chance to show off your culinary skills! Prizes for winners in each of the following categories plus a grand prize winner!

Most Patriotic Dessert Best U.S.C. Themed Dessert Most Original Dessert Pre-registration required. For more information and to register call: Virginia Montgomery 412-344-0500

Come experience the Gilfillan Homestead and Farm on

Community Day and be a part of Upper St. Clair history. Once again, the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair will open the Gilfillan property from noon to 3 p.m. for house and barn tours, horse drawn wagon rides, and visits with the farm animals. Come see the restored vehicles, the shearer and the spinner, the herb garden, and the Civil War encampment. There will be crafts for young children and games, too. Make sure you see the newest addition to the farm—five new calves!

What Will Be Your Favorite Part of Community Day 2006?

The UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is taking a residents’ poll about Community Day 2006. What will your favorite part of this year’s festivities be—the parade, the booths, the Run for Fun, the Gilfillan farmhouse, the petting zoo, the Log House, or the food? How about the Diaper Derby, the dog contest, or the Duck Race? After the eventful day’s celebration, jot down your thoughts and we’ll include your opinion in our poll results. Send us a photo; share a poem or story about the day; let us know what you liked the most! All articles and photos will be considered for publication in future issues. Please include your name and contact information. Information submitted will not be guaranteed a return. Responses must be received no later than June 1, 2006, to: UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, Community Day Poll 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or to: ldudzinski@uscsd.k12.pa.us (Email subject line must read USCT poll.)

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

It’s a Full Day for

a Community Day Participant 7:30 a.m.– Home to shower. (A must!)

6 a.m.– Drag your body out of bed.

ball 6:30 a.m.– Head to the mud volley courts for the high school’s n. junior/senior volleyball competitio

8:30 a.m.– Li mber up for the 9 a.m . 5K Commun ity Day Run for Fun.

0 a.m. up for the 11:3 e n Li .– .m . a 11:15 hlin Run Road g u a cL M g n lo parade a

10 a.m.– Visit the staging area for USC’s Hottest Dog competition or view the bake-off contest entries at 11 a.m.

r House fo g o L e th Visit 2:30 p.m.– rical adventure. a histo .m.) on to 3 p (Open no

Noon– Visit the fair bo oths for games, food, and fun and en joy the entertainment at the stage area .

1 p.m.– Hop on the shuttle bus and visit Gilfillan Homestead and Farm. (Open noon to 3 p.m.)

One last stop at the fair booths for some delectable fair food, then home to rest! 2005 Community Day photos provided by Terry Kish 18

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

3 p.m.– Be back at McLaughlin Run Creek for the exciting Duck Race. Will your duck win?

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(Adjacent to Festival Foods) www.valleybrookdental.com

(724) 942-8982

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Staying Connected to One’s Community is a Hallmark of Providence Point Taking the road less traveled is often the best choice for someone seeking change and adventure. Taking a new path in life is often the best choice for seniors who want to live their lives to the fullest. That new path often leads to a new home, and seniors have a new community waiting for them in Pittsburgh’s South Hills. The decision to move to a retirement community is no longer based solely on healthcare needs. Often times, it is a matter of convenience. Perhaps you no longer like to use stairs, or the chores of snow removal, landscaping, and painting are cutting into time that would be better spent traveling, visiting grandchildren, or volunteering. It is never too soon to start planning for the future.

A healthy, active senior who does not immediately need to make a change has the time to invest in making the right decision without pressure. Making a decision about what’s best, before it is needed, is always easier. Why Act Now? Residents are now reserving their apartments and patio homes at Providence Point. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2006. So, why make the decision to move to Providence Point now? Unlike most existing retirement communities, Providence Point has no waiting list. There are also many more choices available to first residents including the apartment or patio home of your choice. There are many options including locations facing different areas of the property and affording different views, and specific

Bill Ward at the USC Township Library book drive

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

areas that allow pets. Early residents also lock in pre-construction pricing and assist in interior design choices including countertops, ceramic tile, carpet, paint, and cabinetry. “Those residents who have already made plans to join our community are so happy they did,” explains Todd Swortzel, president and CEO of Baptist Homes Society, Providence Point’s sponsor. “They’ve made a positive decision for their future and have chosen a path that allows them to relax and enjoy their retirement.” “By reserving early, I get to design my new home the way I want it,” explains Ann Lytle, future Providence Point resident. “With places that have waiting lists, you have to take whatever residence comes up. Since Providence Point is new, you get to choose your floor plan and location.” Add More Life to Living Providence Point’s residents are involved in many recreational activities including skiing, biking, roller blading, traveling, and music. Though age is no indicator of activity, the community’s youngest residents will be in their mid-60s. “I was looking for a lively community because I’m only 81 years young!” says Leonard Heisey, future Providence Point resident. “I play golf, work out, and travel. I don’t like to sit still. Providence Point is designed for active seniors like me.” Volunteering is also very important to residents, many of whom can now volunteer in their community longer because more free time will be available with the elimination of home maintenance. Many residents find volunteering a very fulfilling part of their lives,

and there is no shortage of opportunities in Upper St. Clair. The Upper St. Clair Township Library’s book

Lavisa Ward at a ladies golf tournament in USC drive, Community Day, and ladies golf tournaments were just a few of the events residents enjoyed in 2005, and that community dedication will continue long after their move to Providence Point. “There will be many activities both on and off the Providence Point campus,” explains Jean Morelli, director of Resident Services at Providence Point. “For those residents who join us from the South Hills, all of their usual activities will still be available. For those new to the area, there is much here to be enjoyed. Our residents can participate in a lecture or hands-on learning class, play a game of billiards, challenge other residents to bridge in our card room, or watch a movie in our surround sound theater.” The smoke-free community also includes a wellness center reminiscent of a resort spa with an indoor swimming pool, exercise room, beauty shop, barber shop, and day spa. Also available will be an outpatient clinic and licensed medical

professionals on-staff and on-site. Short and long term healthcare needs are met with private accommodations in the Assisted Living and Healthcare residences. Location, Location, Location As with any move, location is very important. And, maintaining the lifestyle you are accustomed to, in the community you call home, is very important. The majority of the residents at Providence Point will be from right here. Choosing a retirement living community within your own hometown allows you to continue to volunteer and stay connected to family, friends, church groups, and doctors. Choosing a familiar location can also help to make the transition easier. Providence Point is an important investment. As a continuing care retirement community with LifeCare, Providence Point offers residents options for all of their future healthcare needs, right in the community, should their current needs change. “Though I’m fit as a fiddle now, I know that with LifeCare I’ll be taken care of for the rest of my life,” Heisey adds. “So, I don’t have to worry, and neither do my children.” In addition to being an important

investment, being a good value is another reason residents are joining the Providence Point community. “It’s a great value. The monthly cost will be less than living in our home,” explains Bob and Phi Christman, future Providence Point residents. “We won’t have a mortgage or property taxes to pay. No more gas, water, or electric bills. No more lawn care, painting, roofing, or maintenance expenses. Providence Point’s monthly fee covers everything we need and allows us to maintain the lifestyle we’re used to.” At Providence Point, seniors can stay within their community, continue volunteering, continue all of their daily activities—but without the stress of home maintenance and repairs and with the peace of mind that comes with knowing help is at hand should the need arise. Located on a 32-acre wooded site at the intersection of Kane Boulevard and Green Commons Drive, near Bower Hill Road, Providence Point includes apartments featuring a variety of floor plan options, all with underground parking, and two-bedroom, two-car garage single-family patio homes.  For more information call 412-276-4500 or visit www.providencepoint.org.

Lee Farmer and Ann Lytle at USC Community Day

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

U. S. House of Representatives Timothy F. Murphy

U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania 322 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: http://murphy.house.gov/ E-mail: murphy@mail.house.gov

The Future of Pittsburgh is Energy

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www.hendersonbrothers.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

and its future will be because of new energy development. The world was literally built by Pittsburgh energy. After all, Andrew Carnegie didn’t manufacture steel here because we had iron ore. It is because we had coal and the water resources to transport it. To this day, Pittsburgh sits on a 250-year supply of coal—the Pittsburgh coal seam is one of the most valuable natural resource stockpiles in the world. First the steel industry was born, and then came the railroads and names like Westinghouse, who developed airbrakes for trains, electrical systems, and the first commercial nuclear power plant. These advances inspired companies like Alcoa, Gulf Oil, and Rockwell who depend on oil. The nation’s demands on industry were answered by Pennsylvania workers, who responded with innovation, invention, and production. The legacy of that workforce remains here in our manufacturing and universities. Then, because Pittsburgh had to clean the air of all this industry, it became the world’s leader in environmental engineering. It is no accident that Pittsburgh continues to be a world leader in nuclear, chemical, and environmental engineering, as well as robotics and medical technology. Though many of our steel mills are closed, Pennsylvania still generates nearly one-tenth of the nation’s output, and ranks fourth among states in coal production. Now we are at a crossroads. The Energy Policy Act passed by Congress can have a monumental impact on Pittsburgh and allow it to produce the next generation of energy technology and employ scientists and engineers to develop it. The Act constitutes the greatest opportunity for Pittsburgh in decades. Summer 2006

For 30 years, neither Congress nor any administration had an energy policy. There were no policies to increase our oil production, or encourage the building of new oil refineries or nuclear facilities. But my colleagues and I on the Energy and Commerce Committee finally passed this landmark Act—our nation’s first comprehensive energy strategy in a generation. The Energy Act’s investment in clean coal technology, nuclear energy, hydrogen fuel cells, and other new technology will lower energy prices by increasing supply, create jobs due to increased production demands, and give the nation energy independence. The job growth has already started in Pittsburgh. Over the next year, Westinghouse Nuclear, Consol Energy, and Allegheny Energy each will hire nearly 500 new workers. In addition, each new mining job yields eight more jobs at later points in the production chain. My unequivocal goal is energy independence for America in ten years. Conservation is important, but first and foremost, this nation must generate its energy here at home. The Energy Act will help us do that. But we have more we must do. We must aggressively increase oil and natural gas exploration. And we must pursue exploration diversification of energy sources. Southwestern Pennsylvania should be at the center of these actions. We owe it to our manufacturers and our nation, and I believe Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania can lead the way. Our mission must be to meet the energy needs of our nation and our region in ways that protect the health of the public. That is why we must work together to pursue our mutual goals for a better, brighter future here. The opportunity awaits and the choice is ours! Let’s work together to make this a renaissance. 

Happy to be in the Wayne Herrod

Doghouse

Upper St. Clair resident John Swiatek is in the

doghouse. No, he didn’t make his wife, Julie, mad and he didn’t ground Sean, Kristie, or Michael, his three children. John is actually in the John Swiatek, doghouse with the Riverhounds manager Riverhounds Football (soccer) Club and happy to be there! John and his family have lived in Upper St. Clair for 15 years. In addition to managing the Riverhounds, John is also the managing partner of the successful Washington Wild Things baseball team. Last year the management team of the Wild Things decided to venture into the soccer world and purchased the Riverhounds. The Riverhounds, who started play in 1999, had no permanent home and were playing games at several high school venues. John and his group saw the potential for soccer in western Pennsylvania and brought the Hounds® home to beautiful Falconi Field in Little Washington. The move appears to have been an excellent one. In the 2005 season, the Riverhounds increased attendance by 67%, being second in the league in attendance. Falconi Field is transformed from baseball to soccer for home games throughout the season, which has worked perfectly. “We have received positive comments from our fans,” said Swiatek. “I don’t believe anyone could imagine the physical layout, but people have the feel for it and like it. We’re hoping to continue growing attendance as we move through the season. We think the increased attendance has to do with the fact that the Riverhounds have a permanent home in a state-of-the-art facility.”

Joe Vidnic passes through the Spirit Tunnel.

The Riverhounds are modeled after the Wild Things when it comes to service. The Hounds® feature affordable family entertainment, with season tickets starting at $72. The Riverhounds announced that longtime, local soccer coach Gene Klein will join the organization as head coach. Joining Coach Klein as assistant will be local favorite Paul Child. Csaba Feher will act as youth development director. The Riverhounds plan to offer youth soccer camps and seminars, and these three men are crucial to the plan. “We think that these three men complement one another,” said general manager Ross Vecchio. “They bring different strengths to the mix while espousing the same philosophy about the Riverhounds and soccer as a sport.”

…with the knowledge and experience you deserve. Judy knows what you expect in a Realtor… and she delivers.

David Flavius (right) dribbles into position.

The Riverhounds Football Club is making a huge commitment to local soccer. Soccer continues to grow in this area and the Riverhounds plan to be a big part of that growth. “We guarantee an exciting sporting event while offering affordable food and beverages,” said Swiatek. “The facility is clean and bright. It’s just a great atmosphere and it’s easy to get here, being right off I-70.” The team will host ten regular season games and several exhibitions, including one against a team from the higher classified MSL League. Last year’s exhibition against the Columbus Crew was a great event. Join the Riverhounds for a game. You’ll definitely get a kick out of professional soccer the Riverhounds way!  The first 50 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY readers to send an email to the Riverhounds at info@riverhounds.com will receive four free tickets to a 2006 Riverhounds’ game. Only one entry per address, please. Summer 2006

412-833-7700 ext. 224

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair “Building a sense of community by supporting activities and programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

The Pittsburgh Symphony POPS Upper St. Clair High School Theatre

Tuesday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m. TICKETS: $25 (reserved seating only) Tickets will be available after April 1. For ticket information, please call the USC Theatre Box Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2599. Pre-concert Dinner with Marvin As part of this PSO fundraising event, the successful “Dinner with Marvin Hamlisch” will be repeated again this year. Dinner reservations are $500 per couple for a light buffet dinner before the concert. VIP seating to the concert is included with dinner reservations. If interested, please call the Foundation office at 412-831-1107 and leave your contact information.

Marvin Hamlisch

2006 USC Community Day and CFUSC Duck Race

Bocce has Arrived in Upper St. Clair! Free Clinics and Tournament Planned

The Township has constructed two lighted regulation bocce courts in Baker Park, just behind Baker School.

Saturday, May 20 Once again, ducks can be “adopted” for $5 each, or $25 for a “Quack Pack” of six.

Ducks can be adopted at the CFUSC booth on Community Day, or by phoning Peggy Snavely at 412-833-4408.

Great prizes will be awarded for the first five ducks to cross the finish line near the footbridge by the Recreation Center. The ducks will hit the waters of McLaughlin Run Creek at 3 p.m. Don’t miss it!

To celebrate this new addition, the Township Recreation Department and the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair will organize three free clinics and a bocce tournament. No prior experience necessary. The three bocce clinics will be held at Baker Park on: Saturday, May 6 from 9-10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 11 from 7-8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 13 from 9-10:30 a.m. The USC bocce tournament will have three divisions: men’s, women’s, and couples. There will be two- and fourpeople teams. You can sign up for the bocce tournament at the clinics or at the USC Recreation Department. You can also contact: Roy Johnson at 412-835-7330, George Pitcairn at 412-831-7126, or David Hughes at 412-854-4053. The last day to sign up your team will be on Community Day, May 20, at the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair’s booth.

Community Foundation Contact Information Phone: 412-831-1107 • Fax: 412-257-4160 Website: www.mainstreetusc.com/cfusc • Email: cfusc@adelphia.net

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

Volunteerism—Alive and Well in Upper St. Clair Many people in western Pennsylvania

view Upper St. Clair as an affluent community that is fortunate to have the economic ability to buy what it needs. Undeniably, Upper St. Clair is blessed with a higher than average per capita income. What may be surprising to many though, is that Upper St. Clair is also a hotbed of volunteerism. In fact, Upper St. Clair has a long history of its citizens freely providing their time and vocational skills to make our community a better, more enjoyable place to live and raise our families.

Upper St. Clair has a long history of its citizens freely providing their time and vocational skills to make our community a better and more enjoyable place to live and raise our families. Examples of this wonderful willingness to share can be found in almost every aspect of our community. In our schools, we have the Board of School Directors, PTA, and numerous committees working to make our schools an exciting and rewarding experience for our children. On the school athletics side, there are the various booster organizations, band parents, and club-sport parents that help underwrite a significant portion of the cost of many of the middle school and high school sport programs. In our local government, we have the Board of Commissioners as well as numerous committees and ad hoc groups staffed by residents and other volunteers working to make our Township better. In fact, the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is provided, in large part, through the efforts of volunteers. One example of volunteerism in the general community is the Upper St. Clair Athletic Association, which is responsible for providing the oversight and day-to-day operations of the Township’s many youth sport programs. This does not even begin to touch upon the hundreds of parents that volunteer their time to organize leagues, coach, or staff the concession stands. Our community’s willingness to give has not been limited to just volunteering

free time. Many of the athletic fields and facilities we have today are the result of residents providing their personal resources or the resources of their businesses for the good of the community. The Township’s outdoor sports crown jewel, the Morton Field Complex, was started by an Upper St. Clair citizen’s generous contribution of earthmoving expertise and heavy machinery. The buildings and structures associated with the baseball fields are there in part through local contractors providing their services for free or at greatly reduced costs. The construction of the paddle tennis courts on McLaughlin Run Road is partly the result of many interested and contributing residents. A dedicated group of citizens is currently shaping and “walking in” the interior walking trails of Boyce Mayview Park. With the progression of continued development at Boyce Mayview Park, there is a wonderful opportunity for our citizens to step up for the betterment of our community. Anyone with earthmoving, construction, or landscaping equipment, or other related services to provide would certainly be appreciated and are welcome to contact the Township or its Public Works Department to see how they might help. As wonderful as the spirit of volunteerism is within Upper St. Clair, we should not forget the economic strength we are blessed with as well. While few people like taxes, most people do want great schools, a safe community, and nice community amenities. The schools and amenities are often the two key decision points for people selecting a community to call home. Regrettably, over the past few years our Township has slipped behind our neighboring communities in the quality and breadth of those all important community amenities. Fortunately, that trend appears to be changing with the potential development of Boyce Mayview Park. However, we cannot risk becoming complacent. When the issue of field costs, or community recreation centers, or additional needs for our schools come up, and they almost certainly will, we need to consider them thoughtfully and then support our community as best we can. 

��

Bill Littrell, Upper St. Clair Athletic Association

Summer 2006

��

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Pittsburgh Zoo has an Edge— the Water’s Edge

The Water’s Edge • The exhibit’s total water usage exceeds 500,000 gallons • 15 exhibit viewing windows • 30- and 40-foot acrylic tunnels • Authentic seaplane • A boardwalk/pier • A freshwater waterfall • A flowing stream • Kid’s discovery trail • A dig yard for polar bears

Wayne Herrod

The Polar Bear • Polar bear fur has a hollow core and is transparent. • Polar bear skin is black. • Males grow to ten feet and 1500 pounds. • Polar bears’ enemies are man and other bears. • Polar bears can swim 60 to 70 miles in one day. • Polar bears live 15 to 18 years in the wild, 30+ years in captivity. Website: www.polarbearsinternational.org

The Walrus • A walrus has 40,000 whiskers. • Males (bulls) grow to ten feet and weigh 2500 pounds. • Predators are humans, killer whales, and polar bears. • A walrus can stay under water for ten minutes and dive to 30 feet. • 80-90% of the walrus population is found in the Pacific Ocean. Website: www.saskschools.ca/~gregory/artic/walru.html

The Sea Otter • A sea otter has 800,000 to one million hairs per square inch. • Thickest fur of any mammal, its skin never gets wet. • Sea otters are found in the ocean and are rarely seen on land. • It is the smallest marine mammal in North America. • A male sea otter weighs up to 100 pounds. • The Great White shark is the sea otter’s most formidable enemy. Website:

marinemammalcenter.org or tmmc.org

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Photo by Paul Selvaggio

After an eight-year absence,

the polar bears are back! Gone from the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium since 1998, polar bears (the world’s largest land predator) return in a spectacular exhibit called the Water’s Edge early this July. Joining the polar bears will be sea otters in the fall of 2006 and walruses in April 2007. This appropriately named exhibit will give visitors a spectacular view of these animals. Water’s Edge will be located between PPG Aquarium and Kid’s Kingdom. After exiting the aquarium, visitors can enter the tundra, the home of the polar bear that will feature a temperature-controlled ice cave, providing the necessary arctic climate for the bears. Visitors will enjoy a breath-taking view from one wall of the cave. Walking along the nature trail, you will soon find yourself on a pier where you’ll get an eye-level and underwater view of the bears. The pier continues through a fishing village where you’ll find sea otters spending most of their time on the surface of the water. The walrus area is the next stop. This exhibit will have a large pool that narrows and functions as a swim channel. Finally, a walk under the pier leads to a 30-foot tunnel where you’ll encounter bears swimming overhead, watch sea otters underwater from a 14-foot window, and walk down the only tunnel (40-foot long) in the world where walruses swim above you. Summer 2006

Photo by Paul

Selvaggio

Zoo officials toured marine mammal facilities across the country in a “vision quest” to determine the design. Professional consultants were hired to offer their expertise in designing these types of exhibits to guarantee that this facility will be the premier exhibit of its kind. “These animals will have the best we can offer for an enriching, healthy environment and our visitors will have the most fabulous views imaginable of the animals,” says Dr. Barbara Baker, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. “We have not only learned from the best of the best, but also from other zoos’ challenges.” The zoo had always planned to bring the polar bears back. They’ve done so in a spectacular new environment to the delight of the public, who has been anxiously awaiting their return. The combination of these three marine mammals that spend most of their time actively engaging the water should allow for an exciting, educational experience for all visitors. 

Photo by Tom Pawlesh

Summer Dining Guide 2006

Sesame Inn

A Beloved Neighborhood Cafe!

Gourmet Chinese Restaurant

FINEST CHINESE CUISINE

ese n i h C “Bessttaurant” Re voted by the readers of • PITTSBURGH magazine 2003, 2004 and 2005

• Mt. Lebanon magazine • Post-Gazette • Tribune Review • Rated  by KDKA TV • Pittsburgh City Paper 2004, 2005

Lunch • Dinner Free Delivery • Carryout Banquet Facilities Gift Certificates

Treat your family to the award winning Best Chinese Restaurant Reservations recommended

(412) 279-8088 Open 7 days

Dinner Served Monday–Saturday 5 p.m.–10 p.m. Reservations Suggested See our full menu at www.cafegeorgio.com

24 Donati Road • 412-833-7000

Make your reservations now for Father's Day Sunday, June 18 Gift Certificates Available

1082 Bower Hill Rd.

 (next to St. Clair Hospital)

Pittsburgh, PA 15243

Volunteers Needed for the 2006 Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta (July 1–4)

Volunteer positions are available

for the 2006 Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta to be held July 1–4. Each volunteer will be given a T-shirt (that they are required to wear when working) and $5 per shift to purchase food and a soft drink. Shifts are approximately four hours long. Each volunteer is representing the Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta and asked to act in a professional, courteous manner. Volunteer positions are available at the Regatta entrance areas and include, making change, money collectors, and stamper and clicker. If you are interested in volunteering or to learn more about the volunteer positions, call Lynda at 412-875-1800. 

McMurray 724-942-2888 Mt. Lebanon 412-341-2555 Station Square 412-281-8282 North Hills 412-366-1838 www.sesameinn.net Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township of Upper St. Clair Ched Mertz

President, Ward 4 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-3631 2009*

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners Meetings All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.

Bill Bates

Vice President, At Large Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-257-8115 2007*

Township News

Preston W. Shimer Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2007*

Kenneth L. Brown Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-4512 2009*

Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2007*

Frank E. Marsh Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-6244 2007*

Karen M. McElhinny At Large

Day 412-831-9000 2009*

Special Meeting of the Board of Commissioners

December 12, 2005 Approximately 12 people attended.

The Board discussed, via telephone conference with Mr. Ken Ballard of Ballard*King and Associates, the expectations for the second phase of the consulting contract regarding development of Boyce Mayview Park. Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners

January 2, 2006 Approximately 20 people attended.

Prior to the start of the Board of Commissioners meeting, the Honorable District Judge Sally Edkins conducted a swearingin ceremony for newly-elected Commissioners Kenneth L. Brown, Karen M. McElhinny, and re-elected Commissioner Ched Mertz. The Board: • Elected Commissioner Ched Mertz as president of the Board of Commissioners. • Elected Commissioner Bill Bates as vice president of the Board of Commissioners. • Tabled PLC05-0018, tentative approval for a nonresidential development at 1121 Boyce Road, until February 6, 2006. • Tabled PLC05-0015 regarding the Monterey Plan of Lots, preliminary subdivision approval, until February 6, 2006. • Voted to direct Ballard*King and Associates to complete tasks according to the original contract, by January 30, 2006.

January 16, 2006 Special Meeting Approximately 12 people attended.

The Board: • Approved the expenditures incurred by the Boyce Mayview Community Recreation Center ad hoc Advisory Group. • Established an approval plan between the ad hoc group and the Township Manager’s Office regarding expenditures incurred.

• Gave direction as to an updated planning calendar and discussed the development of a generic communications plan with regard to the Boyce Mayview Community Recreation Center concept.

February 6, 2006 Approximately 15 people attended.

Proclamation: • Commissioner Brown presented a Proclamation to Jim Render, recognizing his accomplishments as Upper St. Clair High School’s Football Coach. The Board: • Moved to close the public hearing regarding PLC05-0018, Sainte Claire Plaza tentative approval nonresidential planned development. • Failed to approve USC-PD 1-06A which would deny tentative approval to PLC05-0018, Sainte Claire Plaza. • Adopted USC-PD 1-06, granting tentative approval of a nonresidential planned development to construct a new 17,457-square-foot retail building and convert 7750 square feet of office space to retail space in the existing buildings on property located at 1121 Boyce Road, zoned RM-P, Planned Restricted Light Industrial District. • Adopted Resolution No. 1459, granting preliminary subdivision approval to Monterey Plan of Lots, subject to certain conditions. • Tabled the public hearing regarding PLC05-0011, Fox Chase PRD, Phase 4, to the meeting of March 6, 2006. • Moved to proceed with the Boyce Mayview Active Area and Fields Development Plan, Illustrative Phase 1. • Adopted Bill No. 1-06 amending Chapter 57 of the Township Code, entitled, “Fees.” Board Approval of Contracts: • Day Fleet—Pittsburgh .....................................$119,704 Public Works vehicles: Ford F-550 Super Duty, Ford 350, Ford F-350 Super Duty, Ford F-350 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado Police vehicle: Ford Explorer 4X4 • Woltz & Wind Ford—Heidelberg ......................$62,166 Police vehicles: Three Ford Crown Victoria sedans

2006 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates • 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 Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Hearing Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

2828 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 2006 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Summer Summer 2006

Visit our website - www.twpusc.org

Ched Mertz, President, Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners Charles E. (Ched) Mertz has lived in Upper

St. Clair for 35 years. A native of the Beechview section of Pittsburgh, Ched is a graduate of Baldwin High School and Bucknell University. Ched was originally elected Commissioner to Ward 4 in 2004, filling the term of retiring Commissioner Cheryl Bayne. Reelected through 2009, Commissioner Mertz is the newly elected president of the Board of Commissioners. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY had a chance to talk with Ched and we’re pleased to share our conversation with our readers. Why did you want to run for Commissioner and what are your goals in that capacity? I have always been politically active and haven’t missed an election in over 45 years. Upper St. Clair has a rich history of competent leadership and I wanted to have a role

in continuing that into the future. Upper St. Clair is blessed with a great Township staff. We need to maintain the high level of satisfaction with Public Works and Public Safety Departments. We need to support and encourage the men and women who selflessly give of their time in the volunteer fire department. We need to bring to fruition the plans to fully develop active recreation at Boyce Mayview. Another priority is to immediately begin the process to plan and develop the remainder of our commercial land potential. Who has been the greatest influence in your life? That’s easy—God. Although I fail in many ways daily, I strive to keep God’s word as my moral compass and to give witness to my faith in my actions and treatment of others. What activities and hobbies do you enjoy? My family keeps me very busy. Rachel and I have two daughters, two sons, and 14

grandchildren. Our sons and their families live in Upper St. Clair. Last year there were five little Mertzs at Baker Elementary. I serve as Elder at Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church. I also enjoy antique cars, woodworking, the banjo, trail biking, golf, and many activities with our grandchildren! Anything else you’d like residents to know about you? Personal goals? My goal as president of the Board of Commissioners is to give voice to every resident of Upper St. Clair and lead in an open, respectful, and civil style. I would also hope that after full debate of the issues, that this board would be decisive in striving to make Upper St. Clair the community of choice in the greater Pittsburgh area. What’s your dream vacation? It doesn’t matter where, just so Rachel and I are together sometimes with our entire family. 

USC Community Recreation Center Progress Report Lynn Rubin and Kathy Kasunich Co-Chairs Boyce Mayview Community Recreation Center Ad Hoc Advisory Group In June 2005, Upper St. Clair Township

Commissioners appointed an ad hoc advisory group to evaluate and recommend specific health, wellness, aquatic, and social facilities for a new community recreation center which would likely include membership and user fees. The group’s formation and charge were in response to the recreation assessment detailed in the Township’s Comprehensive Park Master Plan and subsequent Preschematic Plan. This identified specific recreation opportunities which could be developed within Boyce Mayview Park. Of the 30-plus organizations currently active in the community and invited by the Township to participate, more than 20 provided representatives and alternates. Throughout the past summer, members of the group traveled to northeastern Ohio and toured the campuses of seven operational community recreation centers, studying facilities and equipment as well as researching management and operating issues. They also visited community recreation facilities in

Peters and Cranberry Townships. The group members then surveyed their individual constituencies for feedback on what community residents desired in terms of fitness and wellness resources, aquatics facilities, youth, individual, family, and senior citizen activities, and communityoriented initiatives. On October 31, 2005, the ad hoc group submitted its 31-page report to the commissioners. It details the results of the group’s research and the specific recreation needs identified by USC residents. The report can be read on-line on the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org/rec/communitycenter/ report/index.html. This report was forwarded to Ballard*King and Associates, a Colorado-based consulting firm that the commissioners engaged to provide an economic and market assessment of the community center’s estimated costs. At press deadline, the Ballard*King report had been received and was being analyzed by the commissioners, Township staff, and the ad hoc group. It also was made available to the

general public for review and comment. The ad hoc group will sponsor a public information booth at the Township’s Community Day being held this year on Saturday, May 20. Group representatives will be on hand to answer questions and provide any current information as to the types of facilities and equipment that will be recommended for the community recreation center. The ad hoc group’s meetings are open to the public. Please check Cable 7 or with the Township for dates and times. Residents are welcome and encouraged to attend. There is a public comment period at the end of agenda items at each meeting. During its trips and in subsequent constituent focus groups, the ad hoc representatives identified significant social and economic advantages that a modern community center can bring to its residents. Among them are maintained and enriched property values, enhanced practicality of choosing to live in Upper St. Clair, and strengthened prestige of the Township as a modern, competitive first tier community. 

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Library

Have You Heard of the Wabi-Sabi House? If your thoughts

are turning to home improvement and garden design projects, you might be interested in the latest trends in these areas. The Upper St. Clair Township Library has a selection of new books, DVDs, and magazines to provide you with both inspiration and expertise. Modern life can be fast-paced and stressful. Imagine your home as a refuge of comfort and simplicity. The Wabi-Sabi House: The Japanese Art of Imperfect Beauty (747.2952 LAW) introduces wabi-sabi, an aesthetic tied to Zen Buddhism that is an emerging trend in home design. The author, Robyn Lawrence Griggs, encourages us to set aside perfection and appreciate the simple beauty of things as they are. Another new title, Home Therapy: Fast, Easy, Affordable Makeovers (747 WAR) by Lauri Ward presents simple design principles to help you create your own makeovers using the space you have, the things you like, and the budget you can afford. Home Enlightenment: Practical, EarthFriendly Advice for Creating Nurturing, Healthy, and Toxin-Free Home and Lifestyle (645.042 BER) by Annie Berthold-Bond also provides ways to help you return to a simpler, healthier home environment.

If you are ready to take on home improvement projects yourself, the library can help. Hometime, a PBS series on DVD, provides practical advice on a variety of topics, including basements and drywall (DVD 643.5 BAS), ceramic tile (DVD 693.3 CER), construction basics (DVD 643.7 CON), garages and decks (DVD 690.184 GAR), flooring (DVD 690.16 FLO), kitchens and baths (DVD 643.3 KIT), landscaping (DVD 712 LAN), and plumbing and electrical (DVD 696 PLU). Renovation, third edition (643.7 LIT) by Michael Litchfield is the most recent version of a title in print since 1978. This comprehensive how-to guide, loaded with illustrations, is considered by experts to be the “bible” of home renovation. The concept of home as a place of peace and comfort extends to the garden as well. Outside the Not So Big House (712.6 MES) by Julie Moir Messervy and Sarah Susanka reveals ways in which to bring house and garden into harmony—extending the home beyond its four walls. Designing a garden that is more than a collection of plants can be a challenge. Design in the Plant Collector’s Garden: From Chaos to Beauty (712.6 TUR) by Roger Turner is an expert’s guide to structuring the garden, balancing spaces, and using framing devices to focus attention on the special plants in the garden. Before & After Garden Makeovers (712.6 WEB) by Vicki Webster and the editors of Sunset Books provides suggestions, both simple and ambitious, on how

2006 Summer Library Hours Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Summer Sundays Memorial Day–Labor Day Closed Tuesday, July 4 and Monday, September 4 Website: www.twpusc.org/library

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

to plan a successful garden renovation. If vegetable gardening is your passion, the library has new titles to help you grow and prepare healthy foods. The Gaia Book of Organic Gardening (635.0484 RYR) by Charles Ryrie provides all you need to know to start and maintain an organic garden. Homegrown Pure and Simple: Great Healthy Food from Garden to Table (641.563 NIS) by Michel Nischan will show you how to prepare the bounty from your garden. Several new magazines available at the library provide upto-the-minute ideas for both home and garden. Real Simple: Life Made Easier (MAG R) is devoted to helping readers do what they need to do so that they can enjoy what they want to do. Dwell: At Home in the Modern World (MAG D) is a publication devoted to modern home design and products. Fine Gardening: At Home in the Garden (MAG F) provides practical information and resources to create garden spaces that reflect the reader’s personality and home. As summer approaches, and your thoughts turn to refreshing and updating your surroundings, come visit the library first. The Upper St. Clair Township Library has the information you need to make all of your home and garden dreams come true.  The Upper St. Clair Township Library has been awarded a State Library Services and Technology Act grant in the amount of $39,499 to integrate the library’s database with the eiNetwork County Catalog. The library expects the integration process to be completed by the end of this year.

Paws, Claws, Scales, and Tales New!

Pre-school Summer Library Program: Ready to Read at Your Library

Children begin learning pre-reading skills from birth. Ready to Read, the sum-

mer library program, is designed to help young children acquire these skills with fun and entertaining parent-directed activities and library programs. Your child will earn stickers for listening to stories, retelling stories, playing with educational toys, puzzles, and games, and attending library programs. Every child who completes the program will receive a small reading prize. This program is designed for children from age two through the completion of Kindergarten. Ready to Read begins Monday, June 5 and runs through Thursday, July 27.

Keep your teeth for a lifetime.

Summer Library Reading Program School-Age Children Kids who read succeed! The summer reading program is a fun way to encourage your child to spend time reading. Participating in summer reading can play an important role in creating fluent, lifelong readers. Participants will receive their own personal reading log to record the titles of the books they have read. Children will receive one ticket for each book read for a weekly drawing of prizes. The more you read the greater your chances of winning! Registration begins Monday, June 5. Reporting begins Thursday, June 15 and runs through Thursday, July 27. Summer Program Highlights • The summer will start with the tenth annual Art in the Park for preschoolers on Friday, June 2 from 10 a.m.-noon. • Come to the library on Thursday, June 15 for the first day of reporting and also to see the amazing Doc Dixon perform his Paws, Claws, Scales, and Tales Magic Show at 2:30 p.m. in the Children’s Library. • All of the library’s summer programs

for children from birth through middle school will begin mid-June. Highlights include popular storytime programs, the Pre-School Adventures program, afternoon programs for kids in kindergarten through fourth grade, evening programs for middleschoolers, and some fantastic performers. Check the website or stop in the library for a summer brochure with all the details. Volunteers Wanted As always, the library will be in need of dedicated student volunteers for its many summer programs. Kids in fifth grade and higher are encouraged to look into volunteering at the library during June and July. Call early in the summer to reserve times. Help will be needed during many of the library’s programs, including a special series of programs for first graders. This is a great way to get volunteer hours completed before school starts in the fall. For more information about volunteering at the library, contact Colleen Miles at 412-835-5540 or milesc@einetwork.net. 

There’s nothing worse than having to repeat dental work to have it done right. We take the time to help you plan for long term success. Dr. Steven R. Crandall does it right the first time-saving you time, money, pain and, most importantly, your teeth.

Just Read for Adults Plan to participate in the summer reading program for adults, Just Read,

which will take place at the same time as the children’s program, Monday, June 5 through Friday, July 28. Last summer, 132 participants read 535 books and were eligible for weekly cash drawings, grand prizes of cash, and Border’s gift certificates. Friends of the Library will once again provide prizes for our 2006 summer readers. Read for pleasure, read to learn, read for chances for prizes. This is a win, win, win, fun-filled program! Check the website and in the library this month for more information about getting started in the adult summer reading program. 

Summer 2006

70 Fort Couch Road, Upper St. Clair

412-833-6166 www.stevenrcrandalldmd.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

S u m m e r

2 0 0 6

Boyce Mayview Interior Trails Update

Block Party Time is Any Time!

Walter Jarosh, Superintendent of Buildings/Forester Volunteers continue to clear and shape various interior trails throughout

Boyce Mayview Park in preparation for spring and summer walkers. Walkers and hikers are an important part of the development of the natural surface trail system. Continued usage serves to compact and harden the trail surface. The Upper St. Clair Public Works Department installed the walking bridge on Beech Valley Trail and is near completion on the curved bridge on Trillium Trail. The bridge on Beech Valley Trail will provide easy access to the meadows for programs at the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC) while the curved bridge will provide a link between two sections of the park. Sign installation by volunteers and as a boy scout project is taking place, now that the warmer weather is here. If you would like to assist in the continued development of the trails, we encourage you to help us walk them in. For now, you may obtain a map from the Township offices

Block Parties are Easy to Organize and Fun! 1. Send a letter or download a Block Party Request Form (www.twpusc.org) requesting permission for a block party with a specific date to: Township Manager 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241.

Beech Valley Trail bridge

highlighting those trails that are cleared and ready to walk in. Volunteers are needed to help with additional trail clearing and shaping, and sign post installation. If you would like to be included on an email list that updates volunteer opportunities, submit your email address to Jarosh@twpusc.org or phone 412-831-9000, extension 273. The vastness of the park’s area, dependency on cooperating weather, and the ever-changing work locations require detailed times and directions to volunteers. 

2005 Comprehensive Plan The Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners recently adopted the 2005

Comprehensive Plan (Plan) for the Township. The Plan will improve our community through traffic enhancements, remaining land development, and stabilization of its assets over the next ten years. The Department of Planning and Community Development, with the assistance of Environmental Planning & Design (EPD), have put together an in-depth document that will protect the quality of life and strengthen future opportunities for residents and business owners within the Township. The components of the Plan will enable the Township to move forward on many projects such as construction of sidewalks throughout the community, completion of the EPA Consent Order for sanitary sewer rehabilitation, enhancement of the quality of streams throughout the Township, and transportation improvements. A copy of the Plan is available in the Upper St. Clair Township Library, the Department of Planning and Community Development, and on the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org. Please do not hesitate to call the Department of Community Development at 412-831-9000, extension 501, if you need further information regarding this document. 

2. You will receive a letter granting authorization to have the party in your neighborhood. Activities must be held between noon and 10 p.m. 3. The Public Works Department will deliver barricades to your residence a day or two before the event and will pick up the barricades soon after the event. The street may not be barricaded for more than six hours. 4. Residents in the neighborhood are responsible for providing adequate access for public safety vehicles during the event. Please be considerate to neighbors who may not be involved in the festivities. 5. The Police and Fire Departments give informational talks to kids. Call 412-833-1113 or 412-835-0660 to schedule a time. 6. If you have additional questions, call 412-831-9000. 7. Take photos, write a short article about your event, and send to: Editors, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Tri-Community South EMS Recognized by the CISM Team Tri-Community South EMS was recognized by the

Pittsburgh Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team at the recent international CISM conference. CISM is a system to provide emotional and psychological support to emergency personnel who have responded to stressful incidents. The CISM team includes members who are peers of the responders, to give support and an opportunity to debrief from the incident in a safe environment. TriCommunity South has participated in the CISM program

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

for 20 years, assisting as peer responders at many major incidents, including the Flight 93 crash in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 2001. Tri-Community South (TCS) was recognized for its dedication to the CISM Team’s mission, for in 20 years, TCS has never failed to respond to a call for CISM assistance, regardless of the circumstance. At present, six TCS employees participate as peer reviewers on the Pittsburgh CISM Team. 

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. • Vehicles without current inspection or registration must be stored in a completely enclosed structure. • 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. • 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: – Signs are located only on the lot where the sale takes place. – Signs are displayed only on the day of the sale. – Signs do not exceed nine square feet combined. – 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 edge of the street or curb. – 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, 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, extension 501.

It’s The Place To Be! David J. Stapor, M.D. Donald F. O’Malley, Jr., M.D. Edward D. Poon, M.D. Mark L. Lesh, M.D. Jeffrey M. Matheny, M.D. Certified American Board of Orthopedic Surgery

• Sport Related Injuries • Total Joint Replacement Including Minimally Invasive Techniques • Arthroscopic Surgery • Carpal Tunnel • Rotator Cuff Repair • ACL Reconstruction • Fracture Care 1000 Higbee Drive, Suite 106 1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 240 Bethel Park, PA 15102 Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone: (412) 854-5664 Phone: (412) 469-1660 Office Hours by Appointment

• • • •

Pricing starts at $289,000 First floor owner suites Care free life style Convenience, ambience and style found only at Waterdam Farms • Low Washington County taxes • Phase III NOW open • Visit our website www.waterdamfarms.com For Information Call Bonnie Byrnes or John Geisler at 412-344-0500 x210 or x222 Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Savvy Seniors

Are you a retired resident of Upper St. Clair, age 55 or older? Would you enjoy: • Making new friends • Playing bridge or other card games • Bowling • Shooting pool • Going on day trips • Listening to interesting speakers and musical entertainment, • Or just talking with friends, old and new?

interesting and varied programs, presentations, and entertainment sponsored by the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. All you have to do is check us out! To make a reservation, or for more information, please contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, Township of Upper St. Clair, at 412-831-9000, extension 296.

Members of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair cordially invite you to have lunch at the Upper St. Clair Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road on any Wednesday that is convenient for you. The center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for the Township’s senior citizens. Not only will you be served a hot lunch, dessert, and beverage, but also you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy

The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair will once again be participating in Upper St. Clair’s annual Community Day. Stop in at the Recreation Center and see what they have to offer this year. The aromatic, great tasting coffee will be ready early, and they’ll have an assortment of freshly baked goods for sale. Smiles and friendly chitchat are free! 

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.

United Senior Citizens Participate in Community Day 2006

Silver Card 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 restrictions is eligible for the Silver Card Program. Applications are available at the Recreation Department, so stop in and ask for your Silver Card!

Upper St. Clair Police Department Bicycle Registration and Safety Program–Saturday, May 13 The Upper St. Clair Police Department will sponsor

a bicycle registration and safety program for Upper St. Clair residents on Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Municipal Building rear lot. Registration will include a bicycle inspection, a rider skill course, repair and traffic safety instruction, and safety videos. Participants will receive a bicycle license plate, an adhesive reflector strip, and safety pamphlets. A license number will also be stamped into the frame of the bicycle. Each participant will have chances to win a new bicycle, a safety helmet, and other prizes. Complimentary beverages will be provided. Parents are urged to bring their children to the bicycle registration and safety program. For additional information, contact the Police Department administrative office at 412-833-1113, daily 8 a.m to 4 p.m. 

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

Officer James Murphy with bike winner Thomas Davidson

Tri-Community South EMS Observes National Emergency Medical Services Week

Tri-Community South EMS will

observe National Emergency Medical Services Week, May 14–20. Tri-Community South has provided emergency medical service to the residents of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park for the past 28 years. Since entering service on December 31, 1977, Tri-Community South (TCS) has answered over 120,000 emergency calls and has done over 21,000 non-emergency transports. In addition, TCS employees and volunteers provide stand-by medical coverage at school district and community gatherings, and provide community education in such subjects as CPR, personal safety, and child car seat installation and safety, and assist local organizations in providing flu vaccines, and assist in community health fairs for local hospitals and organizations. Every member of TCS’s staff puts dozens of hours annually into continuing education. National EMS week is sponsored by the American College of Emergency Physicians

(ACEP). It was first designated in 1974 by President Gerald Ford to honor EMS providers nationwide who deliver lifesaving care all day, every day, with little fanfare and little recognition. “EMS is a vital part of every community, but recognition of its contributions are often lost in the broader focus on fire, police, public health, and homeland security,” said ACEP president Robert E. Suter, DO. “The events during this week are important to bring together local communities to honor the more than 750,000 EMS providers nationwide and to raise public awareness about important health and safety issues.” This year’s EMS Week theme is “EMS: On Health Care’s Front Line.” No matter what the emergency or when it occurs, EMS providers can be counted on to be there to provide immediate lifesaving care and transportation. Whatever the health care emergency, EMS providers are always there when you need them.  For more information on EMS Week, to find out what you can do to support EMS in your community, to schedule a child safety seat inspection, to register for a CPR class, or for any other questions on emergency medical services, call Tri-Community South at 412-831-3710 or visit www.tcsems.org.

COMMUNITY WIDE FLEA MARKET SATURDAY, JULY 8, 2006 (Rain or Shine) Place: Time:

USCHS Stadium Parking Lot 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sale)

Setup beginning at 6:30 a.m. Space is limited, so sign-up for your space early. Only Upper St. Clair residents may receive a space prior to May 12. After that date, other reservations will be accepted. Sellers are responsible for providing their own table. Please complete the following form and mail to: Upper St. Clair Recreation, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Name________________________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone____________________________________________________________________________________ Number of spaces needed*______________________________________________________________________ *(A space is two parking spaces, 9’ x 18’ each, one for automobile and one for setup.) Fee per space is $10–resident, $15–nonresident. Check should be made payable to Upper St. Clair Recreation. Summer 2006

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A Day in the Park The Township of Upper St. Clair can fill your summer days with fun and laughter as you

and your family visit its many parks and parklets. Go for an early morning stroll or pack a lunch and stay to play. Feel the evening’s cool breeze as you enjoy the swings, climbing bars, a ball field, or a welcoming bench. You don’t have to travel far to enjoy green space and summer activity—our Township can host a wonderful day in the park.  Township

Fields/Courts

Baker Park 13.82 acres

1 small baseball field, 1 large baseball field, 2 lighted basketball courts, 1 lighted sand surface, volleyball court, 2 tennis courts, 2 lighted bocce courts

Beadling Soccer Field 3.36 acres

soccer field

Boyce Field 1 acre

baseball field

Playground Equipment Play unit and swing set

Morton Complex play unit

Miscellaneous Bike rack, small shelter, water fountain, picnic tables, grass play area, large covered sand play area

Dugouts, batting cage, bleachers

Boyce Mayview Park 476 acres

Natural area and wetlands, natural surface walking trails, REEC, pavilion, open space

Brookside Park 3.7 acres

Natural area

Byrnwick Park 7.05 acres

1 lighted basketball court, 1 tennis court

Play unit and swing set

Walking track—handicapped accessible, water fountain, walkway lighting

Clair Park 2.2 acres

1 basketball court

Play unit with slide and 2 swing sets

Large grass play area, water fountain, small shelter, walkway lighting, spray pool Natural area and 1.25 mile mulched trail

Gilfillan Park 59.57 acres Hays Park 4.21 acres

1 basketball court, 1 tennis court

Play unit and swing set

Asphalt walking trail, spray pool, small shelter, water fountain, grass multi-purpose area, perimeter lighting, barbecue grill

Johnston Park 2.48 acres

1 lighted basketball court (1 full court and 6 baskets), 1 tennis court, 1 lighted hockey court

Play unit and swing set

Walking path, water fountain, walkway lighting

Marmion Field 11.32 acres

1 soccer field, 1 lighted baseball field

Morton Complex 7.5 acres

3 soccer fields, 2 lighted baseball fields

Play unit above Morton 2 area

2 batting cages, concession building, shelter, storage building, storage, dugouts, announcer’s booth

Municipal Park 29.75 acres

10 lighted tennis courts with 6 courts under air structures for winter season, 2 lighted paddle courts, 1 lighted little league baseball field with dugouts, concession stand, picnic shelter, 2 lighted basketball courts, 1 volleyball court

Swing set, 4 buck-a-bouts

Recreation Center building with meeting facilities, kitchen, pool table, ping pong table, and restrooms, outdoor horseshoe pits, large picnic shelter, 3-hole golf course, water fountain, batting cages

Shelter and bleachers, 2 water fountains

Central play structure— handicapped accessible.

Natural area

Ravine Park 10.51 acres Trotwood Park 8 acres

1 basketball court, 1 tennis court, 1 lighted multi-purpose field

Play unit and swing set

2 water fountains, small shelter, spraypool (ladybug), walkway lighting

Tustin Park 6.52 acres

1 basketball court

Play unit and swing set

Walking trail around park

Wiltshire Park 11.2 acres

2 lighted basketball courts, 1 lighted street hockey court

1 4-man totter, 1 wooden play structure with chain ladder, steering wheel, climber, and posts, 1 swing set with 2 infant swings, 1 large play structure

Track ride, merry-go-round, shelter area, Dolphin spray pool, water fountain, amphitheater, walkway lighting

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

Firefighters’ Ball

It was dress uniforms and formal attire as The Grand Residence hosted its

annual Firefighters’ Ball for the Volunteer Fire Department of Upper St. Clair. Firefighters escorted the residents into the event, and everyone enjoyed an evening of music, dancing, and fabulous desserts provided by the chefs at The Grand Residence. 

Pat Gannon escorts Peg Millward.

Anne Kanes and Michael Seese

Margaret Karl enjoys a dance with Mike Tomnay.

New Research on Smoke Detectors David Kish Smoke detectors and their usefulness in saving lives are

not new topics. Every firefighter recognizes and stresses the importance of having working smoke detectors on each level of a home including the basement, near all sleeping areas, and in all bedrooms. The Volunteer Fire Department of Upper St. Clair has written about their importance in previous articles in this magazine and continues to strongly support their use. Recent research studies, however, have created some debate on the effectiveness of typical tonal smoke detectors, particularly with older adults and young children. While the research continues to examine technology, any working smoke detector less than ten years old that is UL certified can be recommended for home use. In September 2005, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Council (CPSC) published the report “Possible Technologies for Improving the Audibility of Residential Smoke Alarms for Older Adults.” The report, available at www.cpsc.gov/library/ foia/foia06/os/audibility.pdf, is a free download. The study concluded that due to changes in a person’s hearing as they age, today’s high frequency alarms may be less effective in waking individuals over age 65. The council is recommending that a lower frequency alarm be developed, but manufacturers have found that technology challenging. A second recommendation which is becoming more common is for hardwired, interconnected alarm installation. For example, if an alarm sounds in the basement, the alarms in other areas of the home sound. All alarms sounding simultaneously increase the likelihood of the resident hearing the alarm, which allows time to escape. In some areas of the country, interconnected alarms are required in new home construction. Other studies indicate that despite a piercing 70-85 decibel signal, children often sleep through the sound of a home smoke alarm. Since a quick response is essential in a fire emergency, if children don’t waken to the signal, parents and caregivers must

wake them. Even with interconnected alarms, emerging research has demonstrated that sleeping children may be able to tune out the blaring sound. This is true for teens as well, so for parents of teenage children, don’t forget to wake them! Practicing Exit Drills in the Home (E.D.I.T.H.) is very important. When you practice your exit drills, incorporate the latest research and make sure your children wake and properly respond when the smoke alarms signal. Empowering children with basic fire escape skills is a very good idea—everyone should know to react immediately to the sound of the alarm and how to get outside quickly. But before assuming children will react appropriately to a late-night fire, parents must learn if their children will be roused immediately or sleep through the smoke alarm. Even those who awaken to the sound of the alarm may be groggy or move with indecision. The Volunteer Fire Department of Upper St. Clair urges all residents, but especially parents and families with older adults and younger children, to hold regular fire drills. Children can participate in the drills by helping to draw the fire escape plan. Once kids have mastered fire escape skills, hold a drill when children are sleeping to learn how they will respond to the sound of the smoke alarm. Push the test button on the closest alarm during the drill. If anyone in the house doesn’t readily waken and demonstrate the ability to move with decision, contingency plans for awakening them in family drills and in a fire emergency need to be developed. Tools, templates for exit drills, and other free information are available for download at the Home Safety Council’s website, www.homesafetycouncil.org. 

For more information about keeping your family and home safe, visit the Volunteer Fire Department of Upper St. Clair’s website at www.uscvfd.org or stop by their booth on May 20 at Community Day.

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Pediatric Dentistry South Piccolina’s Restaurant Pinebridge Commons Assoc. Primary Physicians Research Questa Petroleum Co. REFCO Eric J. Reitz DMD & Gary J. Yanniello, DMD South Hills Financial Group State Farm Insurance Suburban Dry Cleaners Weidmann Technical Services

If you are looking for a destination specialist, we have them. Our Vacation specialists include everywhere from the Caribbean, Europe to Australia. Our European specialists are Austria, Great Britain, Ireland, Hungary, Switzerland and the Scandinavian countries. We also have a Master Cruise Counselor for all cruise markets and a Group and Incentive specialist. We also have over 125 years of experience in our office. Register On Line for Promotions www.kiernantravel.com 1580 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-6772

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Support Our 2006 High School Varsity Football Team Cheer on our Panthers in the Quad North Conference!

Kick-offs Fridays—7:30 p.m. at Panther Stadium

Pinebridge Commons Suite 207 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA

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The USC Football Boosters Annual Golf Outing Monday June 5, 2006 St. Clair Country Club

18 Hole Event 9 Hole Terrace Scrambles

September 15 Youth Night

USC faces Connellsville*

This is always a fun event attended by Coach Render, his staff, alumni, and friends.

September 29 Halls of Fame

USC battles Baldwin* (7:45 start)

October 13 Homecoming

Interested in participating? Contact Kenny or Frannie Brown at 412-854-4512.

October 20 Senior Recognition Night

As Always, We Look Forward to a Fun-filled, Sold Out Event. Hope to See You There.

USC confronts Bethel Park*

(Band, Cheerleader, and Football)

*Conference Game

Chairside Whitening System

USC challenges McKeesport*

Go Panthers!! Summer 2006 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 3939 Summer 2006 ST. CLAIR TODAY

CarolineWired Up My sons recently fell

under the spell of the Ingalls, and are hypnotically drawn to the TV to watch The Little House on the Prarie and this tight-knit family resolve its nineteenthErin Gibson Allen century conflicts. With nostalgia, I also watch to see how Laura’s spunk, Charles’ unflagging morality, or Caroline’s calm and loving mothering can get them through whatever ordeal befalls Walnut Grove. As a girl, I identified with freckled Laura. Now, as a mother, I relate to Caroline and have decided that she would make a kind and loyal girlfriend. In fact, I like her so much I would share with her the best that the future has to offer. The not-too-distant future held some exciting inventions for the Ingalls. Shortly after Grace was born, both toilet paper and the first practical electrical light bulb were invented. In the girls’ lifetimes they could look forward to Coca-Cola, Hershey’s chocolate, and peanut butter. The information and communication technologies of the more-distant 2006, however, are what I would be most excited to share with Caroline. With the benefit of our technological gizmos, I think I could make my new frontier friend’s daily life in her little house on the prairie a bit more comfortable, productive, and interesting. The Internet would have been an enormous help for Caroline. Through eBay or Amazon she would have been able to purchase the latest innovations. Oleson’s Merchantile, I suspect, was a bit behind the curve. For instance, I don’t think Caroline knew that Levi Strauss had invented blue jeans during the early years of her marriage. Maybe she would have liked Charles to wear some well-worn button-fly denim instead of those chinos held up too high with suspenders. The sewing machine was patented in Caroline’s time, but I suspect that, like the jeans, she just didn’t know. Because she made all of the dresses for herself and her girls by hand, she could have benefited immensely from having a Singer. After Caroline recovered from the thrill of the Internet, I’d freely offer our cell phones to her. A couple times the family had dire need of some cash, and Charles, being physically and morally strong, left 40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

the family on foot for weeks at a time looking for work. At least twice he found employment involving dynamite, and I know how happy Caroline would have been to know that Charles was staying clear of danger and would be home before winter. My husband and I, as far as I can remember, have never had a noteworthy conversation on our mobile phones. (“Hey, I’m on my way home and I’m going to stop and pick up a movie.”) I know that quality entertainment was a real challenge for frontier families, too. Charles’ long hours in the field left Caroline alone for extended stretches of time. She would have enjoyed being able to listen to whatever music was hot, or to catch up on current events like the huge swarm of grasshoppers of 1874 or the inauguration of Grover Cleveland. A

If we are up to the yeoman task of turning our devices off, even just occasionally, maybe something more worth our attention would find us. gigantic flat screen television might be overkill in their humble cabin, but maybe Caroline would have liked one of those small, under-the-cabinet models that I’ve seen at Radio Shack. I bet Caroline would have loved my satellite radio, too. As best I can tell, the only music that she heard on a regular basis was when Charles played the violin for the family in the evening. Maybe she’d had just about enough of that, but was too polite to say anything. What I’m doing to the Ingalls family, though, might not be entirely fair. The glow and hum of the new gadgets would lure the girls, I’m sure. Mary and Laura would insist on having a turn. I guess I would have to warn Caroline that with the TV and computer serving as her new hearth, she might feel her role as the family center eroded by her children’s constant email contact and TV watching. She could begin to feel superfluous as her girls talk increasingly to their friends, and not to her. I’d hate to see the girls struggle with their weight if video games lit up the log house walls while the girls pleaded for more Cokes and Hershey bars. I’d also feel terrible if Laura gave up baseball, fishing, and creek wading in favor of watching reality TV, chatting on dubious websites, and talking on her Razr.

Summer 2006

Erin Gibson Allen

Upper St. Clair was created in 1806, before the Star-Spangled Banner was written, before the first passenger railroad opened, before the first game of baseball was ever played in Cooperstown, and about 50 years before Charles and Caroline were married. Many of us own a copy of the book by the Upper St. Clair Historical Society and Larry R. Godwin, Images of America, Upper St. Clair, telling our history through old black and white images. Mr. Godwin’s book reminds us that, “Before Upper St. Clair was a suburban community of fashionable homes and manicured lawns, the township consisted of fertile farmland.” Seeing our community as the farmland that it was not too long ago is not difficult. Upper St. Clair was once just like Walnut Grove. The harder part is to imagine life in our homes without the technology that now comes as a standard feature. What would happen if we lived like the Ingalls for a day with no televisions, telephones, radios, or computers? What if we put away our kids’ PlayStations, Treos, and iPods? What would attract our attention after the shock of the silence passed? We might pick up a book, visit a friend, or even learn a new skill (like playing the violin or sewing). If we are up to the yeoman task of turning our devices off, even just occasionally, maybe something more worth our attention would find us. Maybe we’d talk to each other more. Mothering young children is a mad dash where the days are long, but the years are short. I worry that modern communication and entertainment are competing with me for time with my children. I hope to look back at these fleeting years and feel that my family did more than plug in and tune out to pass the time between the hours of work, homework, and housework. Yes, I’m in love with my James Bondlike technology, but I hesitate occasionally at the cost it exacts. Caroline seems to have been satisfied with the quality of her life. Maybe I should keep my bright ideas about improving her life to myself, and instead imagine how she might improve mine.  I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas with me in person, or email your thoughts to me at erin.allen@adelphia.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Give Yourself the Edge used,” states George Jr. His philosophy is to develop a masterplan for landscape design, which is usually done in phases. This can take anywhere from two to five years to fully complete, depending upon the magnitude of the landscaping work involved. A recent renovation in landscaping is to design a plan to complement the owner’s personality and needs with plantings and other outdoor items, while integrating the owner’s home and its characteristics into the yard. The latest cutting edge technique, Tygar edging, is available to the public at a reasonable cost. This technique, which uses custom decorative concrete curbing to distinguish the lawn from the planting beds, originated in Arizona and California. It lowers maintenance requirements, increases durability, and has an appealing ornate look. The average cost for ten to 12 yards of linear bed edging is approximately $1500. This particular niche in landscape design is now being replicated in other areas of the United States, such as Atlanta. The tag line that George Jr. uses with this trendy concept is, “give yourself the edge.”

“Residential landscaping philosophy

has changed over the past five to ten years,” states George Girty Jr., co-owner of George Girty Landscape Design. Landscaping was previously considered, “making one’s home pretty.” Today’s homeowner participates and integrates landscaping into the fabric of his daily existence. Yards are now used by people to meditate, reflect, and transform their busy daily lives into a life style appreciation. Today’s landscaping integrates the use of decks, fire pits, spas, waterfalls, and pools—just to name a few. People are taking their indoor homes and expanding them to the outdoors—a maintenance-free blue print of change. Only recently are homeowners fully realizing the potential of their backyard terrain. With the varied topographical layout offered in the Pittsburgh region, homeowners can do many different things with their outdoors, adding value and character to their piece of the earth. “Each landscaping situation varies and depends on the topography, the owner’s financial budget, timing of the year when the job begins, and the creative concepts that are

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Orr Family Homestead Receives Facelift Nancy Sakino Spears, Interiors by Decorating Den Nestled in the hills of Upper St. Clair is

one of its old gems, the Orr Family Homestead located at 1907 Murdstone Road. This wooden clapboard home was built for William Orr’s family in 1857. William was instrumental in preserving much of the community’s livestock and food for its residents during the Civil War. The Union soldiers marched through Upper St. Clair to take everything they could find for war rations. Mr. Orr hid the farm animals and supplies in the hollows of Upper St. Clair near Mayview State Hospital. The soldiers, satisfied they had enough stock and food from the farms they visited, moved on to other communities. After the Great Depression, the farm was subdivided and the Orr Farm’s many buildings were demolished. Today, few traces of the farm exist—the renovated white house at 1907 Murdstone, owned by Nancy Sakino Spears and Robert Spears, a small red house at the intersection of Orr and Murdstone Roads, owned by Susan Castriota and Mark Hamilton, and the Orr

barn, which was subsequently moved to a preservation village in the state of Indiana. Built in the same time period as the Orr Homestead, the small red house (possibly a cold storage house) has a stone foundation, bead board walls, and rolled glass windows. This past summer, Susan and Mark began to renovate their newly acquired red house. When landscaping their back yard, Susan and Mark found old horse shoes on the site of the original Orr barn. The white clapboard house, the Orr Homestead, survives intact on one acre and is testament to the Upper St. Clair work ethic. Like all painted homes, there comes a time when newly applied paint will only blister and peel soon after it is applied if not prepared properly. Restoration is a process (even with everimproving technology on the market) that is labor intensive and considered a labor of love. In October 2005, Catalucci Painting and Restoration meticulously began restoration of the Orr Homestead. This project has been divided into segments and will continue for 46

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

the next several years in the autumn months. Why autumn? The most effective process for removing paint is to use a heat gun while scraping. The cooler autumn weather is safer when using this process. When using a heat gun on a hot summer day, old wood could ignite from underneath and smolder, causing an undetected fire to erupt many hours later. A team of three, with old house expert Dr. Sal leading the way, started scraping at the lower front right section of the house. The team moved in unison up to the second floor eves and eventually across the entire house front. The paint strips were at least one-eighth-inch thick and only one color—white. The workers wore masks to protect themselves from layers that contained lead. The southern pine clapboard was in remarkable condition. This wood, unlike the hardwoods of today, is extremely dense and makes even minor hammering a chore. During this part of the project, we found handmade nails with square heads. Many hours of patching, sanding, and prepping took the project to the next phase—painting. Which type of paint to choose was the next decision—oil or latex? After some research and determining that exterior oil was stronger, we chose an oil-base paint. The black house shutters were removed and we found that only two colors had ever been used on them—black and Williamsburg green. Normally, and because of the weather, shutters deteriorate from top down. The rot then continues to eat through the frame of the

Summer 2006

shutter. To proceed properly with this phase of the project, we studied well-known U.S. shutter makers and learned that even the White House shutters have strips of aluminum or copper placed across the top to help protect them from the elements. There are some expert craftsmen in the Pittsburgh area, and Dr. Sal found a hardwood shop to duplicate 22 sets of shutters made out of Spanish cedar. Nine storm windows were also duplicated and made for this project. Spanish cedar was used because of its resistance to weather changes—it will not bend or warp. Easier-to-use and apply, latex paint was chosen for the black detailed shutters.

With each home renovation comes surprises. While tending to the porch, we learned that the original porch was much larger than the one currently in place. The pillars were in poor shape and needed to be replaced. Pittsburgh during the 1890s was one of the wealthiest U.S. cities and led the nation in pillar production. The Chadsworth Company (a native Pittsburgh company) has since moved to North Carolina, but was able to provide duplicate pillars in polystone. Polystone is a mixture of marble dust, polyresins, and fiberglass that is poured into a mold to form the column. And you thought Pittsburgh was only home to the Steelers! The project flew through the 2005 Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. On December 31, the Orr Homestead resumed its graceful appearance, complete with holiday window wreaths. She is once again a beautiful painted lady. Come and admire the lasting charm she provides to Upper St. Clair. 

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Spring is here, and it’s time to tackle that What do The St. Clair,

The Rexford, The Jenkins, and The Montclaire have in common? If you said they include names of streets in Upper St. Clair, you would be right. Did you ever think these names also have another common thread? These are also names of some of the lines for Tamra Leininger’s furniture collection. Tamra was born and raised in Upper St. Clair, graduating from the high school in 1986. Her experiences in Upper St. Clair made such an impact on her life that she chose to name her furniture lines after some of the Upper St. Clair streets that held personal significance. Tamra earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in interior design and minoring in marketing. Once finished with college, Tamra worked as a residential interior designer in Pittsburgh. Wanting to expand her options, she accepted a job offer in Texas for Burlington Industries, working as a market manager. Her job responsibilities required her to sell commercial carpeting and fabric to architects and interior designers. After a few years in Texas, Tamra became homesick and began looking for a job back north.

Tamra Leininger

Tamra soon accepted a job at University Furniture in High Point, North Carolina, and is now the company’s merchandise manager for its upholstery division. She is responsible for furniture frame design and fabric selection, as well as pillow configurations, trims, and stylish embellishments. Tamra couldn’t be more thrilled with her job and is happy to incorporate reminders of her hometown into her work. Next time you’re out furniture shopping and sitting on the many selections of upholstered furniture, be sure to ask your sales person the name of the piece. You may pick a selection named after your street—and it just might be Tamra’s design!  Tamra is the daughter of Jim and Mary Leininger of Rexford Drive, USC.

list of home improvements that has grown over the winter. Few home improvements positively impact your comfort and utility costs as much as servicing or replacing your old furnace and air conditioner. With spring here and summer on the way, routine maintenance for your air conditioner is essential. A clean system breaks down less often and works more efficiently to help keep your summer utility costs affordable. Your system should also be checked to ensure that it has the right refrigerant charge. Air conditioners that run low on refrigerant have more stress on internal components, causing breakdowns and reducing efficiency. After inspection, if it’s time to upgrade your air conditioner you’ll have options to consider. Manufacturers have increased minimum efficiencies this year by 30%, so there are new opportunities available. Consider a high-efficient unit for the best hedge against rising utility costs. Some high-efficiency air conditioners also have two speeds, which can make a big improvement in your home’s comfort by reducing humidity levels. Remember to insert a clean filter in your furnace as summer approaches. Many forget that a clean filter is needed for healthy and efficient operation during the summer cooling season as well as the winter months. Wishing you a comfortable and prosperous summer! 

Save the Date for a Christian Graduation Celebration Churches in and around Upper St. Clair have sponsored and hosted

a Christian Baccalaureate for USC graduates since 1994. This year, Christ United Methodist will be hosting this celebration for 2006 graduates on Tuesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. The Christian graduation celebration is a ceremony for graduating seniors, their family, and friends. The purpose of this Dr. Eric Park event is to celebrate the accomplishments of the students and to provide an opportunity to reinforce their conviction to Christian principles. 50

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Dr. Eric Park is the dynamic keynote speaker for this year’s service. Eric will address the students in a style that combines humor, insight, and Biblical reflection. He offers to the graduates and their families an inspiring message. Student musicians and vocalists will also be contributing to the ceremony. If you are a student musician or vocalist who would like to participate, we encourage you to seek more information. Immediately following the ceremony will be an informal reception at which light refreshments will be provided. This event is open to residents of any surrounding community who wish to participate. If you would like to participate, or if you would like more information, call Mary at 412-854-4072 or email mostlysunny75@adelphia.net. 

A Place to Call Home Meghan Herrod Lions and tigers and ligers, oh my!

Wait… a liger? Yes, you read that correctly. It sounds as though you could be walking into a zoo, but not quite; Noah’s Lost Ark (NLA) is anything but an ordinary zoo! Located in Berlin Center, Ohio (ten minutes from Boardman), NLA provides a home to over 150 different kinds of animals. Unlike an ordinary zoo that focuses on breeding to preserve endangered species, NLA offers a permanent home for those animals in need of one. The animals are not bred and are given a chance to live out their lives peacefully in a safe environment. Of the thousands of “big cats” in the United States, few are in zoos and accredited breeding facilities—the rest are owned privately. Often times people will buy an exotic animal when it is a baby. While the animal is young, it is cute, cuddly, and appears safe; however, as the animal grows, so does its appetite. A full-grown tiger can eat as much as 15 pounds of fresh meat daily. Owners often become overwhelmed and the growing animal ends up neglected and abused. The founders of NLA, Doug and Ellen Whitehouse, receive calls to take in animals from all over the United States. Animals have been brought in from exotic breeding facilities, caring owners, and those owners that gave up on an animal when it got too big. Pumpkin, a lion, was found in a dog crate that was made for an animal half her size, and Nakita, a Siberian tiger, came to the sanctuary after someone found her on an Internet auction site for $1! I recently visited this animal sanctuary and enjoyed the day learning. NLA is home to Sophie, a liger. A liger is half lion and half Monty

tiger, having spots of a lion cub and stripes of a tiger. Sophie came all the way from a failed breeding facility in Texas. Sophie showed off for me by running and rolling around. Watching as she played, I was surprised at how similar her behavior was to a house cat; however, her ten-foot length is much more intimidating! I met two bobcats, Aspen and Monty. Monty was brought to the sanctuary when his human family moved their residence, and Aspen was rescued during a drug raid in Tennessee. The bobcats playfully stalked each other and watched me as I took their pictures from outside their fenced-in cage. Ellen explained how many of the animals miss visitors during the winter months when NLA is closed, so my visit was a special treat for them. My favorite animal of the day was Obie, a retired breeding White Bengal tiger. Considered the sweetheart of the sanctuary, Obie constantly “talked” and chuffed (the tiger equivalent of purring) when we walked past his enclosure. In addition to the big cats, NLA is home to a variety of other animals: sheep, camels, horses, llamas, monkeys, binturongs, and bears, to name a few. Another of the shelter’s animals is a zorse. Half horse and half zebra, Khira was rescued from an auction after she was deemed “untrainable.” Zorses are often difficult to train due to their wild genes. Before arriving at NLA, many of the animals suffered abuse at the hands of humans. Even after all they’ve been through, I could see that the animals were still willing to trust and love humans. As we passed the animals’ enclosures, they would greet and “talk” to

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us, clearly enjoying our presence. Although each animal’s enclosure is not as large as an enclosure at a zoo, remember that these areas are like heaven compared to where many of these animals came from. Noah’s Lost Ark’s mission to take in the forgotten is reflected in its motto, “Where the forgotten are remembered.” Noah’s Lost Ark is open to the public from mid-May through the end of October. The sanctuary is a wonderful place to visit on your own and also provides excellent touring opportunities for groups! There are several petting zoo areas and places where you can feed the animals. You can also get an up close and personal experience with the big cats. A non-profit organization, NLA operates on the money brought in through admissions, donations, and animal sponsorships. Visit NLA’s website at www.noahslostark.org to find a list of items that are being accepted through donations. Take a day trip and visit Noah’s Lost Ark, where the drive is one of those “half-tank trips,” then enjoy the mall and stop to eat at one of the many restaurants in Boardman. Noah’s Lost Ark has found a special place in my heart knowing that these animals will be living out their lives safe and happy. I believe that the animals at Noah’s Lost Ark are best described by Alfred A. Montapert, who wrote: “Animals are reliable, many full of love, true in their affections, predictable in their actions, grateful and loyal. Difficult standards for people to live up to.” 

September 1–October 31 (open weekends only) Saturday and Sunday–10 a.m.-4 p.m. November 1–May 15 (closed for the season) Rates: Adults–$6.50 Children ages 2 to 17–$5 Children 1 year and under–free

Obie and Ellen

Meghan Herrod, a 2001 graduate of USCHS, attends Slippery Rock University where she earned a bachelor’s degree and is currently working on a graduate degree in English.

Summer 2006

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Office Managers

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1699 Washington Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15228 412-833-5405

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Rt. 19 South/Galleria Office 1539 Washington Rd. Pittsburgh, Summer PA 15228 UPPER 412-344-0500 2006 ST. CLAIR TODAY

Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors

District’s Professional Staff Embraces a New Supervision Model Dr. John Bornyas, USC Director of Programming, Operations, and Middle Level Education (5-8)

School District News

William M. Sulkowski President 412-221-9516 2009*

Mark G. Trombetta Vice President 412-831-8543 2007*

District teachers attend training during a recent teacher in-service day. David E. Bluey 412-835-6145 2009*

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2007*

Carol B. Coliane 412-851-0784 2009*

Glenn G. Groninger 412-854-5345 2007*

Daniel A. Iracki 412-833-6882 2009*

Jeffrey W. Joyce 412-257-1704 2007*

Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2007*

The 2006 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at the High School LGI room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

5454 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 2006 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Summer Summer 2006

Improving student achievement through the improvement of teaching

has always been a strong contributing factor to the success of the Upper St. Clair School District. Long before the state-mandated professional development programs in the mid 80s, USC had a professional staff development program dating back to the early 60s. Past programs such as the Madeline Hunter Mastery Teaching Model, Tactics for Thinking and TESA (Teacher Expectations/Student Achievement) have helped the professional teaching staff improve their skills. The District’s strong commitment to professional development of the teaching staff continues with the implementation of a new supervision and evaluation program. This new supervision model uses the Upper St. Clair Rubrics for Professional Practices, a slightly modified version of Dr. Charlotte Danielson’s Framework for Teaching, as a guide for excellent teaching. Danielson’s work has been adopted by the Pennsylvania Department of Education for professional teacher evaluation purposes. The USC Rubrics are grounded in research about effective practices and are organized into four domains: planning and preparation, classroom environment, instruction, and professional responsibilities. Viewing teacher supervision and evaluation as a continuing process, the new model differentiates activities to take into account varying degrees of teacher experience. The model encourages professionals to make choices about activities that will help them improve their teaching. An important aspect of the model is that it will include opportunities for teachers to reflect, interact with colleagues, and engage in deep exploration of content and methods. Planning for this new model started during the winter of the 2003-04 school year. A task force of teachers, administrators, and school directors worked on formulating the approach and ideas contained in the model. During the 2004-05 school year, aspects of the model were piloted with curriculum leaders who are also classroom teachers. As part of the recent collective bargaining agreement with the Upper St. Clair Education Association, the model was included as part of the teachers’ contract. All District professionals attended a three-session training workshop to learn more about the model. Two sessions were conducted on January 16, and the final session was conducted on February 20. Teams of teachers, curriculum leaders, and administrators were the trainers. Mrs. Helen Rishel summed up her reflection and review of the USC Rubrics for Professional Practices by saying, “I felt all of us could read English and interpret what it said, but having the in-service discussion made it so much more insightful to what is expected in each domain, and having examples made it so much more applicable.” District-wide implementation of the new supervision model will begin in the 2006-07 school year. 

USC’s Asian Studies Program Ron Sivillo, USCHS social studies teacher Perhaps you have seen the faces

or heard the voices of Thai teenagers in and around your neighborhood. Maybe a friend told you about the breath-taking “Journey East” performance staged by the Performing Arts College of the Inner Mongolian University this past November at the high school theatre. You may know of a student who is excited to take the newly-created Asian Studies course at the high school being offered in the 2006-07 school year, or perhaps even heard about a young person who is preparing herself to travel to Southeast Asia in June 2006 on an educational excursion to the best schools in Thailand. If so, you have already been

exposed to the newly formed, yet quickly growing Asian Studies Program in the Upper St. Clair School District. With recent school board approval of the program, which is built upon outside funding sources, school officials and teachers are in high gear implementing a comprehensive program—one which seeks to give our students a greater awareness of and a deeper appreciation toward the growing impact of Asia on the United States and the world. The origin of the program lies with District superintendent Dr. James Lombardo, who brought to USC considerable experience with Asian studies programs from his former professional roles in Vermont. Drawing from this experience, Dr. Lombardo proposed the creation of the USC Asian

Studies Program in keeping with a broad goal of equipping USC students with the knowledge, skills, and sensibilities to be competitive in the global marketplace. This goal, one which cannot be met without a keen awareness of the global marketplace and the political arena in which it operates, is designed to offer students a comprehensive examination of the growing importance of modern Asia. Considering such factors as the increasing political and economic might of China, the still ever present domination of technology and quality in Japan, the rise of a larger consumer market and work force in India and China, and political conflicts between North and South Korea, Dr. Lombardo saw that it was time to act immediately on a USC Asian Studies Program. Beginning in fall 2004, Dr. Lombardo, along with an assembled group of administrators, teachers, and community members began in earnest to create the needed program, one which would give our students opportunities to experience Asia through a unique blend of academic, cultural, and travel encounters. Since the inception of this planning group, a few aspects of the program have come to fruition, while many more of the exciting opportunities for our students and community are just around the corner. In what could be considered a symbolic beginning of the Asian Studies Program, 25 student and faculty performers from the Performing Arts College of Inner Mongolia University in northern China came to USCHS this past November to provide workshops to local children and to put on an amazing evening performance in the high school theatre. These performers, traveling to the U.S. as part of a program sponsored by the Freeman Foundation, based in Stowe, Vermont, were brought specifically to Upper St. Clair through Dr. Lombardo’s affiliations to the University of Vermont’s Asian Studies Outreach Program and paid for by an approximately $5000 grant from the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and ticket sales for the performance. In a gesture that made the three-day stay of the performers

memorable and relaxing, community member Shellie Yeung organized host families for the visitors, many of which were Chinese-speaking households. The hospitality offered by the host families made it easier for the performers to give their amazing evening performance of song and dance based on the life in the Mongolian Grasslands. Even before November, plans were well under way on other aspects of the Asian Studies Program. Based on contacts within Thailand by community members Mrs. Luck Kosoladolkitt Groves and her husband, Dr. Gerry Groves, planning began for an exchange program between USCHS and some of the top high schools in Thailand. Dr. Lombardo, Dr. and Mrs. Groves, assistant principal Dr. Mike Ghilani, and USCHS teachers Ron Sivillo, Lauren Davidovich, and Deanna Baird have met regularly to implement a program which has now brought to the high school 37 students and three teachers from schools affiliated with Chulalongkorn, Kasetsart, and Srinakharinwirot Universities.

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Continued on page 56

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC’s Asian Studies Program Continued from page 55

Students from these prestigious schools are staying with host families in the Upper St. Clair community from April 20 to May 26, and in turn will host students from Upper St. Clair who will visit their new Thai friends in Bangkok, Thailand, from June 29 to July 22. In addition to the students who will travel to Thailand this summer or host Thai students during their visit to USC, many more students at the high school will experience Asia by acting as student buddies to the visiting Thai students. Through the newlyformed USCHS Thai Exchange Club, volunteer student buddies will each be paired with a visiting Thai student and will help acquaint the visitor with the workings of the high school (and help each visitor with his class schedule) and the larger community. Most importantly, this opportunity will give all students in the high school the chance to interact with the Thai students in some capacity, and as such, experience Asian culture firsthand.

Besides these experiential aspects of the programs, intriguing academic opportunities are emerging from the work of the planning group. These include a new elective course in social studies, aptly named Asian Studies, a one-semester course that will explore the rapidly increasing impact of Asia on the U.S. and the world. Through readings, visual media, speakers, and field site visits, students will be exposed to ways in which the key regions of Asia are affecting the world economy and global politics, in the context of exploring each region’s history, geography, culture, and art. Moreover, a special emphasis will be placed on the growing impact of China and India on the world economy and global politics. Also in the planning stage is a course in Chinese language, one which will give USC students the opportunity to learn the most widely-spoken language in the world and an ability to communicate in a tongue that is increasingly important to business and academia. While it is a work in process, the Asian Studies Program will continue to seek out new opportunities to expand the knowledge, skills, and sensibilities of our students so that they may thrive in an increasingly interdependent world. These opportunities include, but are not limited to, interdisciplinary initiatives which will expose students in their various academic disciplines to Asian art, culture, medicine, and a chance to travel to China in summer 2007. Whether our students go abroad and study in Thailand or China, act as a Thai student buddy, take a Chinese language class, or participate in opportunities that arise as the Asian Studies Program grows, they will surely represent more ways for our schools and the community to uphold our mission to “develop learned and responsible citizens for a global society.” 

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Breakfast with Gorbachev

Barbara L. Bolas—Upper St. Clair School Board Director, Northeast Region Director, National School Boards Association Board of Directors During my many years of volunteer service to public education I have had the

opportunity to meet and talk with many interesting people. Some of the more notable include Margaret Thatcher, Maya Angelou, Barbara and Laura Bush, George H. W. Bush, George W. Bush, Jr., Bill Clinton, Christopher Reeve, John Glenn, Jr., Jim Collins, and Walter Cronkite. However, one meeting in particular resonates within me—when I had the opportunity to have breakfast with Mikhail Gorbachev, former president of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the now former USSR. I was surprised to discover the high esteem in which he held volunteer

Mikhail Gorbachev and Barbara Bolas

school board members as guardians of education in the United States. He stated he was especially humbled to be in the presence of such school board members from across the nation who serve as leaders in education on the board of directors of the National School Boards Association. Although he is noted to be an astute politician, I was impressed with the sincerity of his comments. There are times when serving on a school board could be considered a thankless job. However, having an opportunity to meet and talk with historical figures, such as Mikhail Gorbachev, is a welcome reward. It was heartwarming to hear him emphasize in conversation that he believed his own achievements were directly connected to his education. He explained such

achievement would not have been possible without the sound foundation of learning he was fortunate enough to receive. This reaffirmed to me that people involved in education in every country have the opportunity to significantly impact individuals and ultimately impact the future of mankind. Furthermore, he stated he strongly believed that, “It is so important for education to be accessible—accessible to all.” During the hour I spent with him, I was fascinated to hear him talk about his personal evolution. He admitted that he was initially a product of the Soviet system, focusing his career on furthering the aims of the Soviet Union to be the dominant, controlling force in the world, but instead ended up working towards reconciliation with the West and world peace. He stated that in this “time of trouble,” with the threat of ongoing terrorism and environmental destruction, the world needs a new kind of transformational leadership that possesses a “special kind of vision.” Gorbachev described how in the 1980s two leaders, who evolved to represent this ideal, would become unlikely partners. I laughed with him when he told the story of when he was asked what he thought of Ronald Reagan, the actor who became a U.S. president. He said he referred to him as “a real dinosaur.” Gorbachev seemed to enjoy adding that President Reagan said he was a “diehard Bolshevik.” He seemed to find particular humor in claiming that it only took two days for the dinosaur and the diehard Bolshevik to make a historic declaration that “the nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought.” Furthermore, he gravely avowed, “That statement is as important today and tomorrow as it was yesterday.” I was saddened when our breakfast meeting came to an end. However, I found Mikhail Gorbachev to be a fascinating person and one who truly values education. His testament, that education has the power to “lift the spirit and expand the mind,” left me with a reaffirmation in my belief that it is only through education that we can affect real change in our world.  Summer 2006

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Thailand Exchange Program Lauren Davidovich, USCHS social studies teacher By this time, it’s quite possible that you’ve heard the buzz

traveling around USC about the Thai exchange, Thai night, or even the 37 Thai students studying at Upper St. Clair High School. As a district, Upper St. Clair recognizes the need to immerse our students in as many cultural experiences as possible, and this exciting exchange is just one way to do so. The Thai-USC cultural exchange is simply one piece of the Upper St. Clair Asian Studies Program at the forefront today, because it is one of the program’s first great successes to date. The Thai-USC cultural exchange is a joint effort between two high schools, one located in Bangkok, Thailand, and the other in Upper St. Clair. The overall objective of the program is for our students to gain international experience and an appreciation of other cultures which will, in turn, allow them to better prepare themselves for starting a career in our ever-increasing global society.

Left to right: Ms. Patcharee Sri Sa-An, PTA vice president of Satit Chula; Ms. Luck Kosoladolkitt Groves, president of Thai Association of Pittsburgh; Dr. Mike Ghilani, assistant principal of USC High School; Dr. Pruet Siribanpitak, dean of Chulalongkorn University; Mr. Pituck Saeamsin, principal of Satit Patumwan; Mr. Sakchai Yodvanich, PTA president of Satit Chula; and a teacher at Satit Patumwan

The benefits of the program are endless. In addition to preparing the students for globalization, our students will also gain educational and social experiences through this well-constructed exchange created by Mrs. Luck Kosoladolkitt Groves. Mrs. Groves and her husband, Dr. Gerry Groves, are residents of Upper St. Clair and are well aware of the need for our students to have an understanding of Asian culture. They realize that with their many connections to the area, Thailand would be a great place to start. From an economic perspective, Thailand is a regional hub in Asia for hundreds of U.S. companies, including several located here in Pittsburgh; while from an educational perspective, Thailand is home to several of the best schools in Asia. The Thai schools where USC students will be taking classes for three weeks this summer are part of the School of Education at top ranking Thai universities. It is extremely difficult for Thai students to receive an education at these schools due to limited space, high standards, and entry requirements. Each year, over 7500 students apply and take an entrance examination, but these schools accept less than 250 of those applicants per school each year. Dr. Groves compares these schools to Harvard and MIT here in the United States; the academic rigor is of the highest degree. When they were searching for top schools in the United States, Thai 58

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officials singled out the Upper St. Clair School District as one that would provide a cuttingedge educational experience to their students. It will be a wonderful opportunity for USCHS students not only to travel to Thailand and immerse themselves in the culture, but also to study at such prestigious venues. While the educational advantage of the program is evident, one must not discard the social benefits as well. As the Thai students are soon to leave Upper St. Clair, one only needs to look around the schools to recognize the relationships between USC and Thai students that are sure to turn into lifelong friendships. For the USC students traveling to Thailand this summer, those very same relationships are ones that will help them during their experience in Thailand. The 37 Thai students that came to USC are living with families here in the Township that have graciously opened their homes to experience this one-of-a-kind cultural exchange firsthand. The Thai students arrived in Upper St. Clair on April 20 and met their host families. The following day, an orientation was held to help familiarize the Thai students about what they would encounter educationally and socially. The students were also given schedules for the classes they would be taking at the high school starting on Monday, April 24. Granted, it took some time for the Thai students to become accustomed to their new surroundings, but soon enough they seemed as comfortable as any other Upper St. Clair student. The transition was made easier for them because of their fluency in English. In fact, some of the Thai students are multilingual.

In addition to taking courses at USCHS, the Thai students are also assimilated to American culture through their living arrangements and participation in extracurricular activities. The program provides for not only school activities, but also Saturday site visits. The Thais have already toured downtown Pittsburgh,

Station Square, the Science Center, the Omni Max Theater, Sports Works, and the Carnegie Museum. While enjoying all of these experiences, the Thai students are still looking forward to touring the nationality rooms at the University of Pittsburgh and Phipps Conservatory and cannot wait to go to Kennywood Park. The Thai students leave Pittsburgh on May 26, but not before traveling to some of the area’s reputable colleges and universities. Thus far, the program has been quite successful and has opened the eyes of many to the benefits of cultural exchange. If you would like to take part in this exchange please attend Thai Night, which takes place May 12, and features Thai food, dance, art, and much more. Tickets start at $10 each and can be purchased at USCHS. With all of these exciting events, one must not forget that the second leg of the exchange occurs this summer. Approximately ten USCHS students will leave June 29 for Bangkok where they will reside for three weeks with Thai families. The very same structure will be in place. Our students will study in Thai schools Mondays through Thursdays and tour sites Fridays and Saturdays. Some of the attractions that our students will tour are The Rose Garden, the Ancient City, the Erawan Museum, the Vimanmek Mansion,

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and the Grand Palace, along with seeing Thai puppet, elephant, and crocodile shows. The USC students will return home on July 22. The experiences that Upper St. Clair students, parents, and community members take with them from this exchange are priceless and will create memories treasured for a lifetime. If you would like to become involved in an exchange or any other facet of the Asian Studies Program at Upper St. Clair High School, contact Lauren Davidovich at 412-833-1600, extension 2655 or email at lnadik@uscsd.k12.pa.us. 

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The Ancient Art of Bonsai At the high school, Louise spoke to Crabapple, Susan Watts’ art class on the aesthetics informal upright of bonsai design as it related to art design with pottery. She also spoke to Junko Kapples’ Japanese language classes about bonsai being a part of the Japanese culture. One interesting design fact she told the class is that the Japanese avoid using two numbers—four and nine—as design elements. Four (shi) means death and nine (ku) means suffering. With that in mind, a bonsai planting should not contain four or nine trees (or trunks) or any combination of elements that make up either of those two numbers. Japanese Privet, During her lunch breaks Louise can ofinformal upright ten be found talking to people about their Means) gardening problems. She recently offered to ight (pot made by Louise Shimpaku, informal upr share some information about bonsai, the If you have children attending art of creating a miniature form of a plant styled and placed at the entrances of homes Upper St. Clair High School, you that mimics what is found in nature. to indicate the affluent status of the occumay recognize Louise Means as one of the Bonsai, correctly pronounced “bone- pants. Smaller trees were placed in special District’s maintenance technicians. While sigh,” literally means tray tree. These niches called tokonoma inside the home. keeping the school in good condition keeps trees generally range in height from only Even when the bonsai art form migrated this Brookline resident busy at work, her a few inches to about four feet. The most to European countries, it was considered a outside activities make her a role model commonly seen trees are usually one to genteel occupation of the rich because they for lifetime learning. two feet in height, but there are wonder- were thought to be the only ones who had Louise has many hobbies, but lists ful examples of four-foot tall bonsai in the time to care for such special plants. her favorites as all types of gardening, National Arboretum of Washington, D.C. Bonsai is not just a small tree planted photography, slate painting, writing, A hobby that combines horticultural in a small pot and left to grow on its own. bird watching, and rock and mineral skills with art in a creation that attempts to (To do so would result in a very short-lived collecting. She continues to learn and de- mimic nature in a miniature form, bonsai plant!) The tree is trimmed, pruned, and velop her skills through membership in originally developed in China about 2000 styled to mimic nature and maintained the Pittsburgh Iris and Daylily Society, years ago and came to Japan about 500 diligently over many, many years. Some Pittsburgh Bonsai Society, Penn State years ago. Subsequently, it grew to be an bonsai are hundreds of years old. Master Gardeners, Monongahela interest in the United States and European Although the age of a tree is important, Rockhounds, and Pennwriters. countries after World War II. what is more important is how old the tree Over the years, Louise has generously Bonsai plants were a sign of wealth in looks. Compare some of the trees in your shared her love of gardening with mem- Asian countries. Often, large trees were own backyard. A newly planted Christmas bers of the USC School District. When tree has straight horizontal branches, a she was custodian at Streams Elementary, clean straight trunk, and generally wellshe organized two efforts for bulbs to be needled branches. An older tree will have planted in the front courtyard and around missing branches, a trunk that has been the building and assisted the students in bent or twisted by time and weather-related the planting of the bulbs. Louise conducted elements, and branches that are drooping a four-week “Kids Gardening” workshop, and no longer horizontal. It is important teaching the students of Streams what a to the artist that the tree be aesthetically plant needs, soil differences, and when a pleasing and live to be a healthy mature weed is not a weed. After the workshop tree in miniature form. she organized and assisted the students in Bonsai are primarily outdoor plants. A putting compost and mulch around the few tropical plants, like ficus, are used, but plants at Streams. Since the renovations at must be kept indoors during Pennsylvania’s Streams some of Louise’s gardening efforts colder weather. Almost any woody perenare no longer evident, but they included a nial can be used as a bonsai. Here on the KinderGarden and a small Principal’s Bed eastern coast of the United States junipers, Twenty-year Boulevard Cypress in the back courtyard. cypress, and some maples are the most with beautiful soft green needles, raft style. 60

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Summer 2006

often used types of plants. Given proper care a bonsai can survive for hundreds of years. While there are many different looks to a bonsai, there are basically five different styles: Formal upright: a straight trunk with the apex (the very top of the tree) directly over the base. Informal upright: a curved trunk with the apex over the base (the most common style). Slanting: a curved or straight trunk tilted so the apex is not over the base. Semi-cascade: the main part of the tree, which may be just a large branch, is at or slightly below the level of the base of the trunk. Cascade: the main part of the tree cascades over the edge of the pot, often reaching below the bottom of a tall pot. Within the five basic styles there are many variations such as a formal upright broom style. A broom style tree (like a trident maple) looks like a straw broom with a gentle curving apex, wide branch placement, and a straight trunk. There are also styles that use multiple trunks, single trunks with multiple branches designed to look like many trees, and the landscape or saikai. To learn more about bonsai, start with the website for the Pittsburgh Bonsai Society (PBS), http://pittsburghbonsai.org/, where there are links to a variety of other societies, back issues of informative newsletters, and even a small manual for the beginning bonsai artist. The PBS is an organization of dedicated bonsai enthusiasts. Founded in 1957 to foster the art of bonsai in Western Pennsylvania, PBS was one of the first bonsai societies in the United States. Meetings are generally held on the third Wednesday of each month at Phipps Garden Center, 1059 Shady Avenue at the corner of Fifth and Shady Avenues in Shadyside (behind the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts). Meetings often include an interesting speaker and a workshop. You are welcome to bring plants that you want advice on—you’re sure to get lots of opinions on what to do! The annual spring show, generally held the first weekend in June, is an opportunity to view bonsai styled by local bonsai members. Bonsai gardening can be very interesting and rewarding for the patient gardener. 

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Boyce Courtyard Garden Club Karen Boston Question: Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow? Answer: At Boyce Middle School with the help of 45 Boyce Courtyard Garden Club members! Hidden inside Boyce Middle School

is a beautiful “secret” courtyard garden. The compact space measures 50-by-50 feet, but it is the happy home of over 200 annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, fish, and frogs. A pond, the kingdom of Bubba (the giant three-foot Koi), is part of the garden, too. Mr. Steve Nicklas, fifth level science and math teacher at Boyce and faculty sponsor of the Boyce Courtyard Garden Club, explained that the garden began ten years ago and that “it is a work in process.” Each year new students, parents, and community volunteers get together to share their love of gardening. The novice gardeners learn from the master gardeners, while the master gardeners gain a new perspective from the novices. In September at the first scheduled meeting of Boyce Courtyard Garden Club, Ben Wucher, fifth level student, discovered a vegetable plot that was planted prior to school’s end last year. He cheered with excitement when he saw the tomato plants with fruit, chives that were three feet tall, and red peppers. Returning sixth level members, also known as the “master gardeners,” proceeded to explain to the “novice” fifth level members how the group had planted the plot during the previous spring. Ben started snipping chives for everyone to taste. His enthusiasm was contagious. Mrs. Leila Bishop, the mother of Boyce Courtyard Garden Club member Abby, fifth level, volunteered to be a parent helper because she loves gardening and wanted to learn more about maintaining a pond. Mrs. Bishop is considering a pond addition for her own backyard. “Before I took the leap into water gardening (no pun intended), I wanted to gain actual hands-on experience and learn as much as possible,” said Mrs. Bishop. Many credit Mr. Bill Daufenbach with their acquired water gardening knowledge. Mr. Daufenbach has been part of the custodial staff in the USC School District for over 28 years and has maintained the pond since its addition six years ago. With the help of Mr. Nicklas, the Boyce Garden Club members installed the pond, and Mr. Daufenbach keeps the filters running smoothly. The Boyce Garden Club meets every Monday after school from 3:45 to 5 p.m. during the months of September, October, November, April, May, and June. Each meeting is divided into time blocks with tasks designated to each block. Some meetings have time devoted to guest speakers, while other meetings have time devoted to craft projects. All meetings have time devoted to weeding and watering the Boyce Courtyard Garden. 62

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

One of the volunteer guest speakers was Ms. Roxanne Swann, bachelor of environmental science student at Chatham College and owner of Swann’s Organic Landscaping. Ms. Swann discussed the topic “Good Bugs for Good Gardening” during last October’s meeting. Ms. Swann explained the benefits of good bugs through a lecture of information and an interactive game. Each club member was assigned the role of a specific bug or creature in the food chain. The club members had fun pretending to be ladybugs, bats, hawks, and millipedes. Ms. Patricia Loverich Bernard, Upper St. Clair resident and professional bee keeper, was another volunteer guest speaker. She gave a fascinating presentation called “Bees, Bees, and More Bees.” Boyce Courtyard Garden Club members had the opportunity to learn many interesting facts about honeybees, how to handle beekeeping tools such as smokers, and add wooden partitions to a custom-built bee hive. Ms. Loverich Bernard explained, “The bees actually attach their comb to the wooden partitions in the hive. One hive (three-by-three feet in size) can contain an average of two thousand bees.” The November meeting did not include live bees due to their seasonal hibernation. Ms. Pam Horvitz, Penn State University Master Gardener and mother of Boyce Courtyard Garden Club member Jared, sixth level, discussed “How to Propagate Plants” at the October meeting. Ms. Horvitz taught each member how to propagate a coleus plant using cuttings from one of her own plants. She challenged each club member to take his or her newly rooted plant home and nurture it through the winter. Later this spring an award will be given to the member with the largest plant. In September, Mrs. Cherie Dixon, co-chair of the Boyce Courtyard Garden Club, coordinated the first annual bulb sale to help raise money for garden and pond maintenance, and fund club activities and craft projects. Orders were collected in September, and bulbs were delivered in October, just in time for fall planting. While the club has a small annual budget of $300 provided by the Boyce PTA, new plantings, mulch, pond filtering supplies, and garden tools deplete the account rather quickly. The club does not charge member fees; the generosity of the volunteer speakers from the community and the parent helpers are the Boyce Garden Club’s secrets to success.  Share your love of gardening with the Boyce Courtyard Garden Club members by becoming a sponsor or volunteering to maintain the garden. Call Karen Boston at 412-835-0457 or Cherie Dixon at 724-942-8366 for more information.

¡Arriba! ¡Arriba!

Students at each of the District’s elementary schools were mesmerized by

the tale of Pittsburgh Pirates’ legend Roberto Clemente, as the Pittsburgh CLO presented ¡Arriba! ¡Arriba! The Roberto Clemente Story. This original musical depicted the life of an amazing baseball legend who also dedicated his life to important humanitarian causes. 

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Lessons in Service at Boyce Beth Hornak, Boyce PTA Communications Co-Chair The students in every USC school learn

more than academics during their educational experience. At Boyce Middle School, students practice ways to be responsible citizens through service to one another, to their school community, and to the community at large. Boyce student council plays a very helpful role in this process. Each homeroom elects two representatives who serve as liaisons between the student council and the classroom. From these representatives, the student body elects two leaders. Faculty advisor Debbie Obrosky, and guidance counselors Vicki Cayuela and Amy Antonio, provide suggestions, advice, and direction as needed. Student council meets monthly before school. Afterwards, each homeroom has team time to discuss topics to get feedback from the student body. Planned activities serve a purpose, but students can always count on a twist to make it fun! October brings the pumpkin raffle where, for a quarter, students can guess the number of seeds in the pumpkin. There are prizes to be awarded, but the anticipation and the challenge are what make it most exciting. Much of what the students do revolves around community service. These

Student council members perform a “Top 10” skit for senior citizen guests during the Month of the Young Adolescent (MOYA) this past October.

student-assisted projects can take the form of donations for food drives at Thanksgiving to “Pennies for Patients” during the winter months. Sometimes student council representatives visit residents at Friendship Village to share holiday spirit and smiles; other times they get down and dirty planting flowers and mulching the beds for the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy on the grounds by the northbound Bridgeville exit—a 15-year tradition! Some projects are year round and are geared to help the school environment. Examples of these student-assisted activities include helping the aides by distributing flyers and other papers to their respective classrooms, running the school store once a week so each child has access to essential school supplies, and new this year, hall monitoring which encourages all students to get to class on time and keep hallways clean and clear.  Summer 2006

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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 alumnus, 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 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 •

2006 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 May 31, 2006. 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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

• 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 •

USC Kennywood Day

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Ticket sales available from Kennywood personnel on Friday, May 19 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 PTA Kennywood representative Amy Walker at 412-833-1904 or Cheryl Ellison at School District Central Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2202.

Two from USC Represent You and the USA Jim and Sheryl Whalen Kylie Whalen’s mentor teacher

introduced Kylie to the fifth grade class, explaining where she was from and why she was going to teach at their school. “Amerika!” one of the students blurted excitedly. “Sehen Sie WWF? Kennen Sie Fifty Cent?” Kylie’s chuckle revealed her surprise that these were the very first questions her new class would have for her. “Nein,” she finally responded softly, shaking her head more at the questions than to indicate her answers. Yet, Kylie supposed, such is the nature of fifth

Kylie Whalen (back center) is surrounded by her German students.

graders everywhere, even those who attend a school bearing the ambitious name Immanuel Kant Gymnasium; even those who live in the Spandau section of Berlin, Germany. Such also is the pervasive nature of American culture, particularly in today’s ever shrinking world. So began Kylie’s introduction to Germany’s culture as an English language teacher in the U.S. Department of State’s Fulbright Scholarship Program. Established in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late Senator J. William Fulbright, the Fulbright Program remains our nation’s flagship international educational exchange program. The stated purpose of the Fulbright Program is to promote mutual understanding and cultural awareness between the United States and the rest of the world. As current Fulbright Scholars, our daughter, Kylie, and fellow Penn State and Upper St. Clair graduate Hillary Fuller, who teaches English at the Staatliches Gymnasium, in Thuringen, Germany, are two of America’s newest cultural ambassadors. Kylie first learned of the Fulbright Scholarship Program when she was recommended for inclusion by one of her professors. She was excited about the opportunity, and we encouraged her to follow through with the application process. The process is a bit arduous, as well it should. Applicants are subjected to a round of interviews, must submit academic transcripts, write a proposal detailing a course of study while abroad, forward written

recommendations from teachers and others who know them personally, and compose a rather lengthy essay describing how they would personally foster the goals of the Fulbright Program. As Kylie and Hillary were applying to teach English to German students, their essays were reviewed and accepted by both representatives of the U.S. State Department and the cooperating agency in Germany, the Deutsches Fulbright Kommission. Kylie’s mild surprise at being asked if she watched professional wrestling and if she knew a popular rapper was nothing compared to her shock when she learned that her essay had to be written in German; for while Kylie was proficient in the language, she was not quite fluent. However, help was close at hand. Invaluable assistance was provided by three USC teachers: Deanna Baird, Kylie’s high school German teacher and herself a former Fulbright fellow; Johanna Rennhoff, Frau Baird’s intern last spring, now a full time teacher at USCHS and also a former Fulbright fellow; and Uwe Schneider, USCHS German teacher and soccer coach. Beyond their technical help, Deanna, Johanna, and Uwe provided helpful insight and enthusiastically encouraged Kylie to see through this wonderful opportunity. Upper St. Clair should be proud that it has fostered an environment which helped two if its own (Kylie and Hillary) achieve the accomplishment of becoming Fulbright Scholars. Upper St. Clair should also be proud of Deanna, Johanna, and Uwe; they reflect and expand the culture of our community, our long and wonderful tradition of providing selfless help to others. This culture is what Kylie and Hillary took with them to Germany, and we can be confident that this is the essence in which their German students are learning about us. We are, fundamentally, a caring and giving nation. Indeed, it is that very spirit that inspires the Fulbright Program that allows Kylie and Hillary to share a little bit of America with their students. We can be sure that when these two daughters of Upper St. Clair complete their Fulbright assignments, if any of their students are asked, “Kennen Sie Fifty Cent?” they’ll respond, “Ja gleichwohl es besser ist, dass ich Amerika kenne.” Actually, since Kylie and Hillary are also doing a great job of teaching them English, perhaps they’ll respond in our language, “Yes, but it is better still that I know America.” 

Summer 2006

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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? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Photo by John Madia

Left to right: David Salazer, Michael Sakoian, Erik Wolfe, Jared Larkin, Andrew Kohlmyer, and Michael Spina surround Brittany Pasay at the ball.

Cinderella’s New Address— Upper St. Clair Congratulations to Brittany Pasay on being named Cinderella at the 80th annual Cinderella Ball held on Saturday, February 4 at the Omni William Penn. The Cinderella Ball is Pittsburgh’s oldest charity event and the second oldest debutante ball in the country. The proceeds from this year’s event went to the Pittsburgh Children’s Museum, which is where the ball attendees did their volunteer work.

Pennslyvania Junior Academy of Science On Saturday, February 4, eight Upper St. Clair students participated in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition. Each student designed and completed an independent science research project, then presented the results at the competition. Congratulations to Terri Clister, Jessica Frey, Kevin Goodlett, Liyun Jin, Chrissy Lee, Angela Liu, Andrew Savinov, and Varun Viswanathan on each winning first place honors, which qualifies them to present at the state-wide competition at Penn State University in May. Jessica Frey also won special honors for her project in materials science and received a cash award.

Left to right, first row: Paul Tyler Hassenfeldt, Sarah Covingto Tomiczek, n, Noah Willumsen; second row: Brian Liu, Collin Edin gton, Daniel Williams, Erik Wolfe, Benj amin Burns, Manivel Rengasamy; not pictured: Raksha Kumar

National Merit Finalists Congratulations to the 11 USC High School students who were nam ed finalists in the 200 6 Nat ion al Mer it Sch olar ship competition.

USC Hockey Team Wins 500 The USC hockey team made high school hockey history by defeating Butler on February 6 to become the first team in Pennsylvania to win 500 games. Upper St. Clair started playing hockey in 1971, and has an overall record of 500-233-55. The Panthers’ record this season was 15-7.

USC Crew Medalists The USC Crew team had a great showing at the Indoor Scholastic Sprints on February 4. The following team members received medals: Jr. Novice Girls, Lauren Abrams–silver; Light weight Jr. Novice Girls, Aline Lueckgen–silver; Jr. Novice Boys, Steven Evans–silver; Light weight Jr. Novice Boys, Rob Pribish–gold; Jr. Varsity Boys, Wright Clarke–bronze; Jr. Coxswain Boys, Chaz Leffler–silver; Mixed High School Relay USC A, Lauren Abrams, Wright Clarke, Tyler Hassenfeldt, Adam Diedrich, Aline Lueckgen, Sam Walker–bronze.

2005-06 USCHS Winter Sports Results

Sport

Wins

Losses

Basketball–Boys 18 6 Basketball–Girls 15 9 Wrestling 15 9 Swimming/Diving–Boys 6 6 Swimming/Diving–Girls 6 6 Amanda Lohman WPIAL diving champion, PIAA fifth place Rifle 2 12 Ice Hockey 15 7 66

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Davy Crockett had six goals and one assist in USC’s record-setting win over Butler. He is first in goals in the PIHL.

Holzer Nets 200th Victory USC boys’ basketball defeated Shaler on February 13 to give Coach Danny Holzer his 200th career victory. Congratulations Coach Holzer; we look forward to many more exciting victories!

Summer 2006

Musicians Recognized USCHS students Stephanie Maloney, mezzo soprano, and Angela Liu, harpis, were winners in the Pittsburgh Concert Society’s Young Artists competition held on Saturday, January 7. The competition was open to instrumentalists under the age of 19 and vocalists under 22 living or studying within a 75-mile radius of Pittsburgh and was adjudicated by Dr. Robert Sirota, president of the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. In addition to each winning a $500 scholarship award, both girls were presented in a formal concert at Kresge Hall at Carnegie Mellon University.

The Wins are Only Part of the Story Scott M. Freund A who’s who of Upper St Clair High

School Football alumni showed up at St. Clair Country Club Friday evening, February 17 to honor (and roast) the coach with more wins than any football coach in Western Pennsylvania history. The roast was emceed by Lanny Frattare, and was also attended by past and present USC administrators including Dr. William Pope and Dr. Terry Kushner, parents of players, and fellow coaches from current and former assistants to current head coaches around the WPIAL. Everyone came to show their appreciation for a coach who last fall started the WPIAL’s 300 Club—an amazing achievement since most of those wins have come at the expense of much larger schools over the 20 years or so USC has spent in quad A contention. Included in the 300-win mark are four WPIAL championships, one PIAA state championship, a great victory at The Pit, and a Uniontown upset victory over Mt. Lebanon while Coach Render headed the Uniontown program before coming to USCHS. It has been said that to be a great coach, you need to win the games you are favored in, win more than half of the toss ups, and sprinkle in some amazing upsets. USC has seen it all under Coach Render since he took over in the late 70s. Coach Render is known for his preparation and hard work, but what really sets him apart (and leaves a lasting impression on his players) is his ability to motivate. In 1986, USC’s first year back in the quad A arena, USC won a couple close games in the first half of the season, and lost two late game heart breakers to North Hills (the then top-ranked team in the nation) and to Mt. Lebanon on a wet grass field at home. The next USC opponent was Bethel Park. Tuesday of that week, all USC football players received a handwritten letter in the mail: Fight on my men. A little we are hurt, but yet not slain. We’ll but lie down and bleed awhile, then rise as one and fight again. —Sir Andrew Barton, Percy’s Relics May your football juices be excited and your Panther Pride boil as we rise to defeat the enemy on October 10, 1986. Winning is fun. —Jim Render That letter made it on to many players’ lockers that week. Another tight game ensued, but this time, USC came out on top. The win propelled USC into the playoffs against a highly

regarded Connellsville team, where USC upset them on their home turf. The ride ended in the semi-finals on the ice at Keystone Oaks field against the eventual champion, North Hills. Who knows how short the ride may have been if not for a letter in the mail. A few years later, and a few weeks before football camp was to start, some of the players’ commitment to the team was challenged after a late night party. Coach Render again pulled one from his bag of tricks and taped notes on his athletes’ lockers: To me, no coach in America asks a man to make any sacrifice. He asks that he do the opposite—live clean, come clean, think clean. That he stop doing all the things that destroy him physically, mentally, and morally, and begin doing all the things that make him keener, finer, and more competent. —Fielding H. Yost, Michigan head football coach, 1901-1926, 165 wins–29 losses During my years at USCHS, I have had the good fortune of having many great coaches including Coach Render. They taught that winning the battle on the field has to be the number one short-term goal. If not, then nothing else matters—not following the rules, not your commitment to a team, not hard work or dedication. You cannot find out your true character until you see how you conduct yourself in the heat of the battle—whatever the battle may be for. The short term goal was to win games, and what was learned from winning and losing—how each person stood up to both—led to the long term goal of shaping a person’s character. When Coach Render spoke at his 300 th victory party, he saw a room filled with players whom he felt proud to have coached. These players looked back at him, each feeling a sense of pride for his respective role in the 300 wins. More importantly, however, we came from all over the country to thank Coach Render for playing his role in making us “keener, finer, and more competent” people.  Scott Freund, a 1987 USCHS graduate, played football, basketball, soccer, and tennis and was coached by two more of USC’s all time leaders in wins: Joe DePalma (soccer) and Rich Saccani (tennis). Scott graduated in mechanical engineering and played football at Virginia Tech. He currently runs a multi-family office (a high net worth investment firm) and lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with his wife and three children. Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints: A USC PTA Council Highlight of Our Schools

PTAs Award Honorary Life Achievement Awards The USC PTA Council is an impor-

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tant link between the local PTAs and the district, regional, state, and national PTAs. USC PTA Council works to support and speak on behalf of children and youth in the schools of our community, seeking better education, more resources, and safer schools in the lives of our children. Get involved—join your PTA or PTSO. Your presence can make a difference! This past February, several individuals were honored for their outstanding dedication and service to our PTAs and the children of our District.

Left to right: Helen Rishel, Streams PTA president Leanne Adamo, and Streams principal Dr. Claire Miller.

Left to right: Amy Billerbeck, PTA Council president Suzanne Kennedy, and Dr. Terry Kushner

Amy Billerbeck, PTA Council board advisor and Council president from 2004 to 2005 and Dr. Terrence Kushner, assistant superintendent and director of Secondary Education (9-12), were awarded with Honorary State PTA Life Membership awards from the USC PTA Council. Fort Couch PTA honored head secretary Matoula Rice with a PTA Life Membership award, while Boyce PTA recognized math resource teacher and student council advisor Debbie Obrosky. At Streams, art teacher Helen Rishel received the State Life Membership award, and Eisenhower honored custodian “Bernie” Harrison. 

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Bernie Harrison, Eisenhower Summer 2006

Debbie Obrosky, Boyce

Matoula Rice, Fort Couch

Meet the Teacher “Meet the Teacher” focuses on one of the many great teachers working in the District. For our summer edition we’re featuring Junko Kapples, a teacher at USCHS. Junko and her husband, Larry, are Junko Kapples Upper St. Clair residents. Their daughter, Sheena, is a sophomore at the high school, while daughter, Shari, is in eighth grade at Fort Couch. Junko was born in Okayama, Japan, which she said is located near Hiroshima. She said the area, which has many hot springs, is very rural, making her a real country girl. After graduation from college she worked as an executive secretary at a ship building yard on a very small island in Japan. Larry came to Japan in the spring of 1984 as an exchange engineer for Westinghouse Electric, and a friend who knew that Junko spoke English asked if she would help Larry with the language. Junko agreed, and she and Larry became friends. When Larry returned to the United States at the end of 1984, his parents invited Junko for a visit. Junko came to the U.S. for a few months, and then returned to Japan. Larry and Junko continued a very long distance relationship—complete with phone calls—for three and a half years, until her father told her to go to visit Larry and see how they felt about each

other. Junko returned to the U.S. in June 1988, and she and Larry were married that November. While it was a loss for the phone company, it was definitely a gain for Upper St. Clair! Following are more interesting facts about this special teacher.

Name: Junko Kapples School/Subject Area: USCHS Japanese teacher Education: Shikoku Gakuin University in Japan, certified to teach foreign language in Japan Favorite subject in school: Japanese language arts and music Least favorite subject in school: math (although she likes math now!) Why she became a teacher: When Junko’s father was young he was a teacher. After he took over the family business, she would see his former students visit him, and was surprised to see how much influence teachers had on their students. Junko thinks those memories, along with her love of teaching, influenced her decision to be a teacher. For many years she volunteered at the District’s schools, giving presentations about Japan and its culture. “It brought me such pleasure to share my background with the students. I enjoyed it so much.” What people might be surprised to know about her: Junko may appear delicate, but don’t let her petite physique fool you. While living in Japan she earned her brown belt in the martial art Shyo Rinji. 

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Jill Cheetham-Mitchell (left center) from Make-a-Wish accepts the school’s donation from Eisenhower students and teacher, (left to right): Chase Kasko, Rachel VanRyzin, Janis Kapadia, Ben Spock, and Mackenzie Rodgers. Congratulations to the students of Eisenhower Elementary for raising $10,500

this school year for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. The students have been raising money for the foundation since 1990, and during that time they have raised over $100,000. In 2003, Make-aWish awarded Eisenhower the Outstanding Youth Achievement Award. Each December, the students in levels one through four hold a math-a-thon as a Make-A-Wish fundraiser. Each student asks family members, friends, and neighbors to pledge money for each page they complete in a booklet of math pages. The committee members for the 2005-06 school year were staff members Midge Rinaldi, Veni Sankar, Nancy Groff, Michele Stack, Janis Kapadia, and Eisenhower principal Mark Miller.  Summer 2006

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USC Summer School Program 2006 Application forms available at all school buildings beginning May 1, 2006 Back-To-School Reading Camp (Grades K-1) Students who have completed kindergarten or first grade may enroll in a special workshop designed to help compensate for regression that may take place during the summer months of play and relaxation. Phonemic awareness and phonics skills will be emphasized and some time will be devoted to story comprehension. Location: Streams Elementary School Dates: August 7–11 Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting kindergarten) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grade 1) Fee: $55 Elementary Math Lab (Grades 1-4) This lab is for students who are experiencing difficulty with mathematics. Manipulatives, learning games, and individual practice will be a part of this lab. Location: Streams Elementary School Dates: June 26–July 14 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 3 or 4) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 1 or 2) Fee: $125 $10 discount if registered by May 26 Elementary Reading Lab (Grades 1-4) This lab is for students who are experiencing difficulty with reading. Each child will experience small group instruction designed to meet individual learning needs. Learning games and independent practice will also be a part of this lab. Location: Streams Elementary School Dates: June 26–July 14 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 1 or 2) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 3 or 4) Fee: $125 If taking both Reading and Math Lab, fee is $235 per child. $10 discount if registered by May 26 Links to Learning through Mathematics (Grades 5-8) This program is for middle school students who need to improve their skills in mathematics. The instruction will focus on the state standards and concentrate on the needs of each student. Location: Fort Couch Middle School Dates: June 26–July 14 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 7 or 8) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 5 or 6) Fee: $125

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Links to Learning through Reading (Grades 5-8) This program is for middle school students who need to improve their skills in reading. The instruction will focus on the state standards and concentrate on the needs of each student. Location: Fort Couch Middle School Dates: June 26–July 14 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 5 or 6) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 7 or 8) Fee: $125 High School English and Math (Grades 9-12) Classes in English and mathematics will be held for students who need to repeat coursework. Enrollment will be through the guidance office at the high school. Location: Upper St. Clair High School Dates: June 26–August 4 (no class July 4) Hours: 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fee: $100 per semester (three weeks), $200 for the year (six weeks) Physical Education (Grades 10-12) (Changes have been made in this program. Please see application and attachments for details.) Location: Upper St. Clair High School large gym Dates and times: 11th and 12th grades (30-hour session): June 26–July 6, 7:30-11:30 a.m. (July 7–make-up day, no class July 4) Please refer to application attachments for a calendar schedule. 10th grade, Option A (30-hour session/one semester): July 10–19, 7:30-11:30 a.m. (July 20–make-up day) Please refer to application attachments for a calendar schedule. 10th grade, Option B (60-hour session/two semesters): July 10–28, 7:30-11:30 a.m. Please refer to application attachments for a calendar schedule. Make-Up Session: July 31–August 4. This time is available for those students who may have missed a physical education class during the summer session. See calendar for specific curriculum make-up days. Fee: $150 for 30 hours, $275 for 60 hours

Summer 2006

Camp Invention (Grades 1-5) This program is an exciting one-week invention camp. The program is created and run by National Inventors Hall of Fame, located in Akron, Ohio. Students will solve problems combining science, math, art, and history using their minds and imaginations. This will be of special interest to students seeking enrichment opportunities. Location: Boyce Middle School Dates: June 26–June 30 Hours: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Fee: $199 Registration is through Camp Invention at www.campinvention.org or call 1-800-968-4332. C-MITES Summer Program—Robotics: Programming and Design (Grades 6-8) Robotics: Programming and Design is a oneweek summer program that is being offered in Upper St. Clair by Carnegie Mellon University’s Institute for Talented Elementary and Secondary Students (CMITES). This is an exciting, fun-filled program for academically talented students currently in grades six through eight. This course is an introduction to robot-building and robot-programming. Students will use LEGOs and MIT Handy Boards to design and build desktop mobile robots, and program them using IC programming language to do dances, follow lines, and sense different objects in the environment. Visit the web address below for further details and registration information. Location: Fort Couch Middle School Dates: July 10–14 Hours: 9 a.m.-noon Fee: $200/C-MITES tested, $250/not tested (financial aid available) Registration is through C-MITES at www.cmu.edu/cmites or call 412-268-1629. **Registration Information** (for other than Camp Invention or C-Mites Summer Program) • Registration is underway now through two weeks before each class starts. Note the discount for certain elementary level classes for early registration. • All classes are subject to cancellation based on enrollment. • Applications for high school classes are available at the guidance office in the high school. Elementary and middle school class registration forms are available in the office at each school building. • Student transportation to and from summer school is a parental responsibility. • Families for whom tuition presents a hardship are encouraged to contact the counselor at their child’s school building. • Students who do not attend Upper St. Clair schools will be accepted depending on availability of space. • Make checks payable to Upper St. Clair School District.

USC Student Selected to Help Create Downtown of the Future This summer, Avisha

Shah, a student at Fort Couch Middle School, will help imagine, plan, and create a new center in downtown Pittsburgh as part of the Downtown Vibrancy Avisha Shah Project, sponsored by Point Park University’s Summer in the City, Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Port Authority, and the Heinz Endowments. For five days starting Monday, June 26, selected students, each representing a school district in Allegheny County, will take a fresh look at downtown Pittsburgh and propose their own youthful vision for its future. The program will include lectures and discussions at Point Park University’s Summer in the City and guided field trips in downtown Pittsburgh. The students will focus on the Market Square and Fifth Avenue district, an area of concern to the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. By the end of the week, the

students will develop plans to create an exciting new downtown corridor that encompasses shopping, dining, housing, working, healthcare, parking, mass transportation, accessibility, recreation, culture, and green space. They will then have the opportunity to present their plans to both policy makers and citizens. I’m really excited about the program stated Avisha. “I’m looking forward to it!” She explained that the mornings will be mainly lectures, followed by activities in the afternoon. Avisha already has some thoughts on how to revitalize the city. She thinks it’s important to liven up the downtown in the evenings, and would like to see

diverse activities for adults, children, and families. A boardwalk, an international food gallery, and dealing with transportation and parking issues are just some of her ideas. Avisha commented that Pittsburgh’s downtown should be the best in the country. Avisha was recommended by the Upper St. Clair School District for the project. Thirty-two school districts in Allegheny County selected a seventh grade student who is outgoing, creative, and full of potential—with the ability to think big. “Downtown Pittsburgh is not an issue only for the city of Pittsburgh,” said Hilda Pang Fu, executive director of Summer Programs at Point Park University. “We wanted to include students from all the school districts in Allegheny County in order to show the interrelationship between the city and the region. Aside from the obvious educational benefits this program offers to the students, we also hope the program will help to expand the dialogue of the issue concerning the future of downtown Pittsburgh.” “These bright, young minds have a rare opportunity to propose a new center that meets the needs of businesses, employees, residents, and the general public in the city and throughout Allegheny County,” said Dan Onorato, Allegheny County Chief Executive. “I am excited and anxious to see their ideas and suggestions.” “These students are the future of Pittsburgh and therefore a great resource to use in the planning for a revitalized downtown,” said Bob O’Connor, Pittsburgh mayor. “We are looking forward to working with these creative students and plan to take their opinions and ideas very seriously.” The Downtown Vibrancy Project is made possible through a grant by the Heinz Endowments, which is underwriting the cost of the project, including student tuition. Port Authority will also provide the students with PAT permits to make their traveling easier throughout the week. The Downtown Vibrancy Project is part of Point Park University’s Summer in the City summer camp program. Summer in the City 2006 is offering 25 different summer camps for middle school and high school students, teachers, and adults. 

Lynn Dempsey 412.833.5405 ext 242 412.445.6264 cell

Selling USC!

lynn.dempsey@pittsburghmoves.com

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Summer 2006

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�� UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

“Fun”draising at Streams Students at Streams Elementary had a chance to combine caring

and creativity as they worked to raise money for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Each grade level came up with a theme day that everyone in the school could participate in, and on that day they could make a donation of up to one dollar toward hurricane relief efforts. Kindergarten students picked funny feet day as their theme, while first grade driveway decided to disco with their best buddy, providing an opportunity for participants a ed vel sho l wel Con Caitlin ne victims. to earn money for hurrica to bring their favorite stuffed toy to school. The second level students picked the theme “Read My Shirt.” As this article went to publication, the third and fourth level themes were closely guarded secrets. Students were also encouraged to raise money for hurricane relief outside of school. One family donated the money they raised from a lemonade stand. Other students did chores and donated their earnings. Each student who earned money had his efforts recognized on a raindrop as Streams worked to fill a bucket with “raindrops.” In January, the Streams community held a “Kids for Kids” silent auction, raising over $3000. Most of the items donated for the auction were services or items families could donate together. Money collected from the various activities at Streams was donated during the District-wide Katrina Relief Telethon on March 22.  Donating one dollar for “Read My Shirt” theme day

Filling the bucket to hel

p others

“Read My Shirt” second level theme day participant

2006 Upper St. Clair School District Calendar (May–June 2006)

All events are subject to change. For the most up to date information, please check the calendar on the School District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Legend: BA – Baker Elementary • BO – Boyce Middle • CO – Central Office • EI – Eisenhower Elementary • FC – Fort Couch Middle • HS – High School • ST – Streams Elementary May 2006 1-12 HS–AP Testing 1-19 BO–Deer Valley 3 FC–Choral Musical (HS/Theatre)–9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. CO–PTA Council Changeover Meeting/Luncheon–9:30 a.m. 4-31 HS–Spring Art Exhibit 4 BA/EI/ST–Spring Exhibit–7-9 p.m. (Early Dismissal at 12:45 p.m.–Levels 1-4) BA–Book Fair 5-12 BO–5th Level NASA 6 HS–SAT (Alternate Location) 8-19 BA–Outreach 8 HS/FC/BO–Jazz Fest II (Theatre) HS–Senior Fourth Marking Period Progress Reports Sent 9 HS–River City Brass Band–8 p.m. BA–PTA Meeting (LGI)–9:30 a.m. BA–Chorus Program (MPR)–1:45 p.m. ST–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. 10 BO–PTA Meeting (LGI)–9:30 a.m. BA–Chorus Program (MPR)–8:30 a.m. BA/EI/ST–Spring Musical–7:30 p.m. 11 HS–Quill and Scroll Induction (LGI)–3:30-5 p.m. FC–Band Concert (HS/Theatre)–7:30 p.m. (Reception/LGI) FC–PTA Meeting (MPR)–9:30 a.m. 12 FC–Social (MPR/Gym/NC)–7-9 p.m. EI–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. K-11 Fourth Marking Period Progress Reports Sent 13 HS–Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra (Theatre)–7:30 p.m. 15 HS–Beauty and the Beast (Theatre)–10 a.m. 16 HS–Art Awards Ceremony (LGI)–5 p.m. 17 HS–Spring Sports Banquet HS–PTSO Meeting (Rooms 148/149)–9:30 a.m. 18 BA/EI/ST–Elementary Strings Concert (HS/Theatre)–7:30 p.m.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

19 FC–PTA Teacher Appreciation Luncheon (Library)–11:15 a.m. ST–4th Level Graduation–6 p.m. 20 Community Day 21 HS–South Hills Junior Orchestra Concert (Theatre/NC/LGI) 22 HS–IB 10th Level Middle Years Program Certification Ceremony (LGI)–7 p.m. ST–PTA Turnover Luncheon–11 a.m.-1 p.m. 23 HS–Choral Concert (Theatre)–7:30 p.m. EI–4th Level Farewell (HS) 24 HS–Academic Honors Dinner–6:15 p.m. 25 HS–Senior Banquet–5:30 p.m. HS–Band Concert (Theatre)–7:30 p.m. BO–Book Fair 26 EI–Cultural Arts Day 29 Memorial Day–No School 30 HS–Awards Assembly (Theatre)–7-9 p.m. 30-31 ST–Cultural Week 31 BA/EI/ST–Elementary Band Concert (HS/Theatre)–7 p.m.

June 2006 1-2 ST–Cultural Week HS–Spring Art Exhibit 2 BA–Field Day ST–Fun and Fitness 3 HS–SAT (Alternate Location) 5 HS/FC/BO–String-A-Thon Concert (HS/Theatre)–7:30 p.m. 6 HS–Last Senior Day BA–Kindergarten Orientation EI–Kindergarten Field Day–9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. 7 HS–Band Senior Tribute Concert (Theatre)–7:30 p.m. FC–Field Event Day EI–1st-4th Level Field Day–9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. CO–PTA Council–9:30 a.m.

Summer 2006

8 HS–Senior Prom (Hilton Garden Inn) BA–3rd Level Moyer Tests (a.m.) ST–3rd Level Moyer Tests (p.m.) EI–Kindergarten Field Day Rain Date 9 FC–Field Event Day Rain Date FC–8th Level Farewell Party (MPR/Gym/NC)–7-9 p.m. EI–3rd Level Moyer Tests (a.m.) EI–PTA Meeting/Breakfast–9:30 a.m. ST–Field Day 10 HS–ACT Test (Alternate Location) 12 BA/EI/ST–4th Level Move-Up Day BA/EI/ST–4th Level Parent Orientation (BO)–7 p.m. 13 BO–Field Day BO–Incoming 7th Level Parent Meeting (FC/MPR)–7-9 p.m. EI–1st-4th Level Field Day Rain Date ST–Field Day Rain Date 14 FC–Move-Up Day Last Day for Students–Pending Snow Make-Up Days (Early Dismissal) 15 HS–Graduation–7:30 p.m. Possible Snow Make-Up Day 19 Kennywood Day 28 K-12 Report Cards Mailed

Upper St. Clair High School Graduation Ceremony Thursday, June 15 at 7:30 p.m. Panther Stadium July 4 - School District Offices Closed– Independence Day

Scouting with a Chinese Flavor Maria Simon Being a girl scout at age 16 is probably

not a very popular concept with girls that age. With all the work and activities involved in being a high school student, scouting would have to be something very special to remain a priority. Having been a girl scout for 12 years, I know that my troop (troop 1328) is something very valuable to me. Troop 1328 is full of culture and personality, to say the least. We have long since moved beyond the days of get-to-know-you games, friendship songs, and other activities associated with young girls (although we are guilty of the occasional messy crafts), and have moved on to interests that fit the personality of our group and its members. Over the years, we have learned that one of our favorite activities is embracing the various cultures of our troop members. We’ve enjoyed many different foods and activities because of our members’ diverse backgrounds. Our most recent cultural experience was making dumplings with USC resident Shellie Yeung, who provided us with a wealth of information about the Chinese culture. Mrs. Yeung has prepared delicious Chinese meals for us and taken us out for “Chinese Day” which included a trip to the Strip District, a shopping spree at a Chinese store, and an enjoyable meal at a Chinese restaurant. However, one of our favorite activities was making Chinese dumplings. Recently, she agreed to host a second dumpling-making event for us. First, Mrs. Yeung showed us how to make and roll out the dough, which we learned is truly an acquired skill. While premade dumpling wrappers can be purchased, she showed us the traditional method of making them. The dough is rolled with a special roller that results in dough that is thick in the center and thins toward the edges. When the dumpling is assembled the finished product has an even thickness. When we finished making and preparing the dough, we mixed the ingredients that would fill our dumplings. Mrs. Yeung was prepared for the vegetarian girls in the group and had both meat and tofu so everyone’s preference could be accommodated.

Girl scouts of troup 1328 enjoying one of their favorite activities— sampling Chinese cuisine.

Then came the tricky part—wrapping the dough around all of the ingredients. We quickly learned that making dumplings requires a certain technique. Mrs. Yeung remarked that there were a lot of different shapes that occurred during our first experience, commenting that this part of the dumpling-making process takes some coordination! She said making Chinese dumplings is a very complex process. She shared that when she was growing up she would have friends over to make dumplings, explaining that they would divide up the various jobs. It was a “productive party,” she commented. Finally, we reached the best part of the process—eating the dumplings. All of the hard work paid off! In addition to the dumplings, we also enjoyed other Chinese delicacies. We had many different kinds of Chinese candy and the troop’s favorite treat, lychee tea with tapioca balls (and a big straw). Through all of these wonderful experiences, I’ve realized how interesting the Chinese culture truly is. Our troop has been fortunate to have Samantha Yeung, Shellie Yeung’s daughter, as one of our members. We have had many unforgettable times together because of Samantha and Mrs. Yeung. They are part of what makes our troop so special.  Maria, a junior at USCHS and daughter of Allen and Theresa Simon, plans to study history and journalism in college.

Sixth Annual Kids Triathlon Do your children enjoy swimming, biking, and running? The

combination of all three sets the tone for a fun-filled morning at South Park where the sixth annual South Park Kids Triathlon, sponsored by HealthAmerica, will take place on Saturday, July 15. The South Park wave pool will host the swim, with the adjacent parking lot used for the bike and run portions of the event. The race offers a wonderful opportunity for children, family members, volunteers, and sponsors to support an effort that encourages physical activity and establishes a foundation for helping to build a future for other kids and their families in a fun and meaningful way with Pittsburgh Habitat for Humanity.

The 2006 South Park triathlon will host 200 children, ages seven to 12. All participants will receive finisher’s medals, with top places in all age categories being recognized at an awards ceremony at the completion of the event. Should the July 15 date not work for your family, Habitat for Humanity will be sponsoring a similar kids triathlon in North Park on Saturday, August 12.  For general race information and application questions or to sponsor the event, contact Julie at Pittsburgh Habitat for Humanity at 412-466-6719. Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer Day Camp • Two Locations

Eisenhower Elementary in USC South Fayette Elementary

Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center Something for Everyone!

• Serving Upper St. Clair, Peters Township, Bethel Park, South Fayette and surrounding districts

• June 14—September 1 • 7:00 AM—6:00 PM • Flexible Scheduling • Swim Trips • Field Trips • Enrichment Classes Including sports, cooking, art, crafts, science, and much more!

Please visit us at www.ExtendedDay.com or call (412) 221-1980

• Ice Hockey Classes & Learn to Skate Programs • Private Ice Rental & Private Broomball Available Spring and Summer Rates Main Rink $120 & Studio $65 • Birthday Parties - Public & Private Ice Skating Party Packages & Summer Swim Party Packages • Private Pool Party Rentals Friday, Saturday, & Sunday 8:15—10:15 p.m.

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USC residents may purchase 2006 season passes to the Mt. Lebanon outdoor swimming pool beginning May 1, 2006.

Extended Day Services

412-561-4363 www.mtlebanon.org

Pittsburgh Youth Ballet

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Jean Gedeon, Artistic Director

Official School of the Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company

Ballet • Pointe • Pre-School Dance • Modern Pas de Deux • Tap • Jazz • Musical Theater

• Summer Intensive Programs & Workshops starting in June & July (Ages 3 to Adult) • Professional Instruction Toddler to Adult • VISA, MC, Discover & AMEX Accepted • Internationally Renowned Faculty • Positive Nurturing Environment • New Location, Fully Equipped A/C Studios

�� Call for a free brochure

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3000 Industrial Blvd., Bethel Park, PA 15102 (Less than 5 minutes from USC, just off South Park Road)

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(412) 835-1250 /835-1335

Visit our NEW website at 74

www.pybco.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

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Boating and Summer Fun Just 20 Minutes from Home! Janet Fisfis

If you have a fondness for the water

and boating, you don’t have to travel far to satisfy your boating needs. Look no further than Beach Club Marina located in the little Pennsylvania town of New Eagle, just 20 minutes southeast of the South Hills. Located on the 30.7 nautical mile marker on the Monongahela River, it’s only two locks away from the city of Pittsburgh and possesses a vast difference in atmosphere for the recreational boater. The pool where the marina sits is about 18 miles long from lock to lock. It lies between lock three in Elizabeth and lock four

• • • • • • • • • •

in Charleroi. This stretch of the Monongahela River is peaceful and serene when considering aesthetics and traffic, and this particular pool is ideal for whatever type of boating you are looking for. If you like to water ski, tube, or play on personal watercrafts, this is your spot. If you’re looking for something more laid back, this pool can also offer great areas for fishing and calm river cruises. You can set your own pace and make each boat excursion exactly what you want it to be. Beach Club Marina offers families variety with their boating experiences. The park-like grounds of the marina are inviting and welcoming to picnics and get-togethers. For your convenience, the marina has bathroom and shower facilities, sand volleyball court, pavilions, picnic tables, and fire pits available to all of its members and their guests. A full service marina, Beach Club Marina is complete with a gas dock, floating convenience store, boat detailing, boat service, brokerage, and winter boat storage. The marina is within walking distance to local restaurants and grocery stores. Members of the marina

are invited to facility parties and concerts on the beach featuring local bands on the club’s floating stage. Boating can be the ultimate summer family recreation, with many options to make boating enjoyable for all ages. From peaceful picnics to happening parties, from daylight land and water activities to campfires at night, the marina aims to please. Match that with a great locale, both in location on the river and in distance from your home in the South Hills. Beach Club Marina is a boat enthusiast’s dream and a family’s summer fun delight.  Directions to Beach Club Marina: State Route 88 South to New Eagle. Turn onto Robinson Street, cross railroad tracks to Marina Street. Office location: 137 Main Street. Call 724-258-2088 for more information.

Seasonal Docking Overnight Docking Gas Dock Floating Store Boat Service Boat Cleaning Towing Winter Storage & Services Boat & Trailer Sales Brokerage

Conveniently Located Near The South Hills Area. Just Walking Distance From Shopping, Groceries Restaurants, Bars Ect. Your Full Service Marina 137 Main Street New Eagle Pa 15067 724-258-2088 www.beachclubmarina.com

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer is a Great Time for Dance Jessica Spencer, The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts Each of us can fondly recall the final day

of school every year before summer vacation and the excitement and thrill of what lied ahead: sleeping in, playing outside, swimming, and staying up late at night. Summer is also a great time to meet new people, try new things, or spend a little extra time on a favorite activity. When choosing an activity for your child to participate in, it’s important to search for something that will provide confidence and enjoyment while stimulating a child’s interest in learning. Dance and gymnastics classes provide that and more—the all-important health benefits of increased physical activity.

Summer is a great time for children of all ages to study dance as classes are offered in abbreviated sessions and children don’t have the stress of school and homework. These sessions are offered to accommodate families’ vacations, pool days, and other summer activities. At The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, classes are offered in all levels for ages two through adult, so anyone can enjoy the excitement of dance this summer. Students, ages two through six, will enjoy wonderful themed dance camps designed for specific age groups. Camps run for two weeks and are offered throughout the summer. During each camp students will be introduced to ballet, tap, and gymnastics. Elementary-age students will love the one-week camps that allow them to choose between hip hop, jazz, gymnastics, ballet, and tap—or try all five! It’s a great time to continue your favorite style of dance or try something new. Summer elementary camps also include dance movies, snacks, and art activities that will encourage students to explore their creativity and gain a greater appreciation of the arts.

Summer is also a great time for pre-teens and teens to brush up on their dance and gymnastics skills for that upcoming cheerleading or dance team audition or to just enjoy the energy and exercise of the class. How can busy teenagers commit to scheduled dance classes? They don’t have to! Class cards are a wonderful opportunity for students to register for dance class without the long-term commitment. Students can choose to come to ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, and modern classes whenever their schedules allow. With more than 12 classes offered a week, for five weeks, students are sure to find a class that’s right for them. Gymnastics camps and back handspring clinics are also a great way to brush up on skills or try something new. Regardless of age or level, summer is the perfect time for dance. Don’t miss out on this fantastic summer activity that could quickly become a lifetime love!  For more information about these or any of the other classes, camps, and events, visit The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, a family-owned dance studio which has proudly been serving the South Hills since 1967. Call 412-257-2000 or visit their website at www.thomasdance.com.

The Thomas Studio Of Performing Arts 1900 Painters Run Road Pgh., PA 15241 �� www� thomasdance�com

ballet

-Summer Classes for all ages and levels begin in June

gymnastics

-Prima Dance Camp for Preschool, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade

TAP

pointe

-Elementary Dance Camp for 2nd-5th Grade -Summer Workshop for Dancers 6th Grade & Up– Come & Go as Your Schedule Permits and Pay as You Go With Our Class Card

hip hop

MODERN

-Sessions offered in June, July & August

lyrical

-Come Watch Our Annual Recital, June 3rd & 4th at Bethel Park High School!

- All Ages and Levels - Professional, Qualified Staff

-Call to receive a SUMMER brochure! -Registration for FALL CLASSES begins in June! 76

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

jazz

Growing Dancers Since 1967

- Spacious Air Conditioned Studios

Barefoot School Mystery Solved! Priscilla Andre-Colton, Interim Director of Children’s Ministry at Westminster Presbyterian Church

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Since arriving in Upper St. Clair

and grandchildren have been involved in and at Westminster Presbyterian Church Barefoot School as students and teachers. (WPC), I have been wondering why WPC For 32 years there has always been some calls its summer bible program Barefoot member of the Joseph family involved. School instead of Vacation Bible School The tradition and reputation of Barefoot (VBS). After raising this question in sev- School is wide and deep. Church member eral different settings, I was finally pointed Mary Hughes recalls singing in the cantata to the right source. I was told, “Ask Hester as girl—she even remembers the words to Joseph—she’ll know!” the song. She commented, “The whole According to Hester, Barefoot School thing is a joy to be a part of.” USC resibegan over 30 years ago in 1974. After dent Jenny Gallo shared a story of when attending Synod School (a training event she lived in Houston and met someone sponsored by the church), Hester came from Pittsburgh who told her, “You have home excited with the idea of starting a to check out Barefoot School—it’s somesummer church-school related activity thing special.” together with her husband, Joe, who was Plans are underway for this year’s then WPC’s Sunday School superinten- Barefoot School. The dates are June dent. Together they launched the church’s 19–23. There will be Bible stories, crafts, first Barefoot School. games, music, and snacks for children Why Barefoot School? It was named ages three years through sixth grade. for “The Barefoot Cantata,” a musical Think of how you might contribute to that told the story of a young missionary this awesome ministry.  in Hawaii. The week of activities—Bible stories, crafts, and singing—led up to Westminster Presbyterian Church the closing program where all the children participated in the musical. The Josephs also thought Barefoot School sounded more inviting than VBS. Barefoot School began as an outreach to the children of the community. The mission was to share Jesus A Caring Community of Faith with the children. Traditional Worship at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Barefoot School is Contemporary Worship at 9:30 a.m. a family tradition for Sunday School and Adult Classes at 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. the Joseph family. Joe Westminster Presbyterian Church recruited most of the 2040 Washington Rd. l Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Sunday School staff Call 412.835.6630 or visit www.westminster-church.org and took a week’s vacation to teach a class Barefoot School (VBS) June 19-23 as well. Hester trained Treasure Cove - Going to the Beach with Jesus the staff and taught Music l Bible Stories l Crafts l Games l Snacks l Fun a class, too. Since All are welcome! then, her daughters Summer 2006

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 BETH EL NURSERY SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

BENS

SIX-WEEK LONG SUMMER CAMP

Mon., June 19, 2006 through Fri., July 28 Register for 2, 4 or 6 weeks. 1 ⁄2 day programs The day camp at Beth El Nursery School provides a fun-filled summer experience in a developmentally-appropriate atmosphere. The outdoor setting, creative activities, excellent adult-child ratios, and warm, nurturing staff are what makes BENS CAMP so special!

Water Play • Playground Activities Riding Toys • Arts and Crafts Games • Music Age groups: 3, 4, & 5-year-olds (Toilet training not a requirement)

412.561.1168 1900 Cochran Road Pittsburgh, PA 15220

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Around the Township Town Hall South Speaker Participates in USC Classrooms K. Epp Frenette

Around the Town News

You don’t thrive for 37 years as a local lecture series

without giving something of value to the community. Town Hall South was particularly pleased this season to be able to give added value directly to Upper St. Clair High School art students. “We knew as soon as we invited Sam Abell to speak that it could be a fantastic opportunity for USC students to learn from a National Geographic photographer first hand,” said Kathleen Hess, recording secretary for Town Hall South. Ms. Susan Hofrichter-Watts, fine arts teacher at the high school, was thrilled at the prospect of having such a well-known photographer in the classroom. “It was a wonderful experience for the students,” said Ms. Hofrichter-Watts. “Mr. Abell was so generous with his time and knowledge. Learning from a professional with such an incredible depth of experience was a real treat for the students.” The admiration was mutual. Mr. Abell expressed that he was struck by the vibrancy of Upper St. Clair students and that it had been a true delight to work with them in such an impressive facility. In the two and one-half hours Mr. Abell spent with more than 30 juniors and seniors, he shared technical tips from his three-decade career at National Geographic and words of wisdom gleaned from his photographic life. “Be patient and let life finish the photograph” was a theme to the students and attendees of the lecture. According to Mr. Abell, in our digital society it is important to take the time to get perspective rather than immediately judge and delete the picture just taken—it could turn out to be your best! Several students got special permission from their teachers to attend Mr. Abell’s entire Town Hall South lecture. “We have always permitted students to stand in the back or slip into empty seats during their spare periods,” says Betty McMillan, a Town Hall South committee member whose son recently graduated from USC. “For Sam’s lecture, more than the usual number of students joined us.”

Sam Abell (center, holding book) enjoyed the classroom experience with USCHS students.

All Town Hall South lectures are streamed live into USC High School classrooms for teachers to use as they see fit. Lectures are also videotaped and available for future use across the School District. February’s speaker David Lampton, director of the Nixon Center for China Studies, was a particularly good match in light of the District’s newly formed Asian Studies Program. Town Hall South’s 2006-07 season will bring some equally fascinating and relevant speakers to the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. James Bradley, author of Flags of Our Fathers and son of one of the Iwo Jima flag raisers, will bring World War II to life when he tells the stories of the men in the world’s most famous photograph. Bradley has also written Flyboys about the recently de-classified story of eight American aviators, including George H. W. Bush, on the island of Chichi Jima. Other speakers include: Andrea Mitchell, chief foreign affairs correspondent for NBC News and one of the most accomplished women in America; the very funny Regina Barreca; Roland Fryer, a rising star in the world of economics; and Major General Perry M. Smith speaking on leadership.  Town Hall South lecture series presents speakers one Tuesday morning per month, October through March, with a break in January. Tickets are available at a cost of $95 for the series. For more information, visit Town Hall South’s website at www.townhallsouth.org or contact Martha Brown at 412-833-8503.

Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club Successful Charity Event—“(Hip) Hooray for Hollywood” March held Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club

(MLJWC) ninth annual charity event, “(Hip) Hooray for Hollywood.” The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel offered the location for a successful evening filled with music, dancing, a silent auction, basket raffle, casino games, and a grand prize for a back-stage Hollywood experience for two. The MLJWC has hosted many events for charities benefiting women and children including Gwen’s Girls, Kids Voice, PAAR, the Children’s Home of Pittsburgh and this year’s event for Matt’s Media 4 Kids with Cancer. Matt’s Media, a charity established 7878 UPPER UPPER ST. ST. CLAIR CLAIR TODAY TODAY Summer Summer 2006 2006

in 2005 partnering with Children’s Hospital, provides a variety of media for patients in the pediatric cancer unit so they can be entertained, educated, and distracted from their own reality. The MLJWC, a civic, philanthropic, and social organization founded in 1968, concentrates on advancing the status of women and children in the region through volunteer efforts and provides financial support to well-deserving charities.  To join the MLJWC, or to get more information about this South Hills organization, email 2ndvicepresident@mljwc.com or call 412-253-7279.

Happenings Family Hospice and Palliative Care Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s annual golf benefit will be held May 15 at Valley Brook Country Club in McMurray. Proceeds benefit services for hospice patients and their families. Call 412-572-8812 to register. Family Heirlooms, an upscale resale shop at 530 Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon, is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday ’til 3. Proceeds benefit Family Hospice and Palliative Care. Tax-deductible donations are accepted. Call for pick up. Stop in and browse. Call 412-531-4750.

2006 Family Fun Fest Sponsored by Senator John Pippy Saturday, May 6 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Upper St. Clair High School gymnasiums For information call 412-571-3822 or visit www.senatorpippy.com This is a free event and open to the public.

Pittsburgh Ballet Evening Event Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s world-class dancers will perform excerpts from the critically acclaimed Pittsburgh and world premiere production“Swingin’ It,” a celebration of Cole Porter and Frank Sinatra. Thursday, May 18, 7-9 p.m. Valley Brook Country Club, McMurray For tickets or for more information, contact USC resident Georgine Rogers at 412-833-3933.

United Cerebral Palsy Charity Fundraisers The 12th annual UCP Foundation Sporting Clays Classic on Sunday, May 7 will be held at The Shooting Academy at Nemacolin Woodlands. The 17 th annual UCP Foundation Golf Classic will be held Monday, June 5 at Lone Pine Golf Club. Those interested in participating in either event should contact Anthony Mauro, director of development at UCP of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Inc. at 724-229-0851, extension 111 or amauro@ucpswpa.org.

USC Youth Football and Soccer Signups

34th Annual Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Food Festival (rain or shine)

Upper St. Clair Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road

123 Gilkeson Road (across from the Galleria) Wednesday, June 14 through Saturday, June 17

Thursday, June 1, 7-9 p.m. Friday, June 2, 7-9 p.m. Saturday, June 3, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Take out available: 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.

Please visit the Athletic Association’s website at www.uscaasports.org for further details.

(phone: 412-854-6001, fax: 412-833-0982) For more information, visit www.holycrosspgh.org.

Mothers and More Mothers and More, a support group for moms who have altered their career paths to care for their children at home, will meet the first Monday of every month at 7:15 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills on Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon. For more information, call 412-343-1916 or visit the organization’s website at www.geocities.com/mothersandmore_swpgh.

Girl Scout Day Camp Girl scouting is a wonderful activity! If your daughter is a scout, consider the one-week day camp for fun-filled excitement. That’s what memories are made of. What: Upper St. Clair Community Girl Scout Day Camp When: July 24–28 Where: South Park Cost: $40 per scout How: Registration forms were sent to all registered scouts in April. Registration accepted May 1–26. Contact Eileen Geffrey at 412-221-5407 for more information.

Summer Each tree is a greenery of leafy delight Fireflies everywhere lighting up the night Kids in convertibles buzzing the streets Dings of Goody-bar trucks bringing treats. Sounds of laughter from a backyard pool Happy children ’cause there is no school Shorts and sandals are the vogue of the day Girls in bikinis, just swimming away. Hot dogs and hamburgers cooked on a grill Eating watermelon ’til you’ve had your fill Watching the fireworks on the Forth of July Guzzling Pepsi until you feel you could die. Taking long drives on a hot summer night Going skinny dipp’n under a moon so bright Homegrown tomatoes are now ready to eat Iced tea and Kool Aid help us survive the heat. Lotions and beach towels are now in demand Suntanned and burned kids cover the sand “Play ball!” cries the umpire is still number one When baseball games are played in the sun. Backpacking, boating, and fishing bring joy Throughout this land for every girl and boy Visit Kennywood, Sea World, or Geauga Lake Go on picnics, carnivals, or a clambake. There’s bicycle riding or jogging in the park Meeting new friends or kissing in the dark Running for cover when caught in the rain Or leaving for vacation on your first plane. Sometimes it’s hard just to keep up the pace There’s so much to do in this fun-filled rat race Each day that slips by brings us closer to fall Give me my summer, the best season of all!

Westminster Presbyterian Church Blood Drive Saturday, May 20 - 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. - Fellowship Hall Please take one hour of your time on Community Day to help save three others lives by donating blood. The Westminster Presbyterian Church deacons are holding their quarterly blood drive in Fellowship Hall at Westminster Church on Saturday, May 20, 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Did you know that every three seconds someone needs blood? A few minutes of your time can help save the lives of others. To schedule an appointment please call the church office at 412-835-6630 or stop by on the way to the Community Day festivities.  Summer 2006

—Jay Walsh, Eisenhower Elementary School custodian

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

JusttheDown the Road— Washington County Fair Mary Lynne Spazok Historic Gilfillan Farm is the absolute model of the 1800s

rural lifestyle. But, where have all the sheep gone? Several years ago, it was delightful watching them graze along Gilfillan Trail. Adults and children alike delighted in these peaceful creatures and more importantly, were calmed by their gentle demeanor. This was the picture perfect lifestyle—sheep in the city. However, times and circumstances change. Today, those sheep nibble the pastoral pastures of Claysville. Do you miss that experience? Then don casual attire, invite the grandparents, silence that cell, and safari to the Washington County Agricultural Fair. Just down the road from USC, this blue ribbon August event offers farm fresh food, wholesome amusement, and fascinating farm animals. Travel south just 15 minutes to the I-79 Meadowlands exit where signage for the Washington County Fairgrounds is evident. Arrive no later than 10 a.m. At this hour, you will find hardworking families tending to their cherished competition entries. Whether caring for baa-baa black sheep or a hefty heifer, there is little time for idle chitchat. However, workers are very friendly and more than willing to share their knowledge. Feel free to ask questions. While strolling through the livestock barn, I asked a farmer“ette” if cows had personalities. “Absolutely!” was her reply. My next comment was, “Wow, these ladies sure need milked!” I quickly learned that udders remain full for the livestock judging—a voluptuous udder rounds out the total package! Squiggly pink piglets are adorable, but a warning sign read, “May bite.” New moms are aggressive and will not hesitate to protect their brood. Bearded goats are sheared, perky ponies parade the paddock, and animated roosters smugly crow. If flowers, fruit, and vegetables interest you, then it’s best to attend the Judging of the Halls the first Friday of the fair. Even the finest garden displays fade away in the August heat. Daily there is a petting zoo, ice sculptures, and Lil’ Stinker skunk races. Saturday features aromatic culinary contests for the most delectable Spam recipe, Hershey cocoa cookies, and of course, the baking of the “All-American apple pie.” On Sunday fair guests are welcome to attend a nondenominational church service at 11 a.m. Shortly thereafter, Pets on Parade, a carefree parade, is a big hit for all ages. Judging of rabbits, lambs, and hogs takes place on Monday. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are 4-H equine exhibitions. If you’ve never witnessed a livestock auction, attend the fair on Friday evening at seven. 80

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

The 4-H Club of America is well represented, with a membership goal to cultivate moral fiber and a sense of worth. 4-H represents health, hands, head, and heart; and generations of families carry on the 4-H tradition out of respect for the land and its inhabitants, as well as to participate in on-going community service. The admired equestrian division is directed by the non-profit Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Service. Washington County has eight horse clubs involving approximately 80 kids who organize and participate in a full schedule of riding and show competitions while acquiring lifeskills of communication tactics, safety, sportsmanship, and organization. All 4-H members may participate even if they don’t own a horse. The equine study of horse judging is learned along with proper feeding, nutrition, and the fashionable art of showmanship. Furthermore, the acclaimed therapeutic riding program benefits those challenged mentally, physically, and emotionally. The Washington County Fair has something for everyone. Keep in mind though that the evening lends itself to a carnival atmosphere. A challenging day’s farm work is rewarded with madcap amusement. Cotton candy, homemade fudge, games of chance, and country western entertainment by popular groups such as the Poverty Neck Hillbillies abound. If you’re mechanically inclined, casually checkin’ over the latest farm equipment may be for you. The fairgrounds are hilly but manageable for the physically challenged. Wear comfortable shoes since there is extensive walking. However, there is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating allowing visitors to experience the ambiance of a good ole’ country fair. Be sure to allow time for a visit to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, located directly across from the fairgrounds. Tours are offered daily where whimsical photo opportunities abound. Should you choose to arrive early and park at the museum, hop aboard an antique trolley for a pleasurable ride to the fairgrounds entrance. A nominal fee is charged. Held the second week of August, you will be a kid again at this family-oriented blue ribbon happening, the Washington County Agricultural Fair. continued on page 81

BUSINESSES

For Your Eyes Only— a Summer Event

a t y o u r S e r v i c e

Mary Lynne Spazok

550 Sleepy Hollow Road Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228

412.563.2858

www.MtLebanonMontessori.org PRESCHOOL (AGES 2-6) THRU 6TH GRADE OPENINGS AVAILABLE FOR 2-AND 3-YEAR-OLDS AND ELEMENTARY

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“For Your Eyes Only” event committee members (left to right): Peggy Snavely (USC resident), Peggy Versaw, Allison Theis (USC resident who works for the Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services), Elizabeth McCarthy, Connie Schwartz (director of development for the Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services), Denise Gipson, Regina Callahan, Joan Siebart, Lynn Bainbridge, Michelle Antonelli, and Julie Giba (USC resident)

Spend Sunday, June 25 at a

Pittsburgh landscape party showcasing the works of renowned artist Ron Donoughe benefitting Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh. Peggy and Stephen Snavely cordially invite members of the Upper St. Clair community to celebrate at their Brookside Farms home. Gracious company, scrumptious cuisine, and en plein aire art will be enjoyed. A native of Cambria County, rural settings were Ron’s creative focus. After relocating to Pittsburgh in 1980, revealing the heart and soul of Pittsburgh through art is now his passion. For over 20 years Ron has explored the “in the open air” technique using canvas or birch panel, the easel, oil paints, and a variety of brushes. Originating in 19th century Europe, today’s impressionists celebrate the real world, free of minutiae. A vista collector, Ron departs his studio in Lawrenceville to pursue a painter’s

paradise. Some scenes are uniquely urban while others are familiar pastoral vistas close to home. Once at the destination, a field sketch is captured in just 45 minutes. On any given day, rain or shine, success is dictated by mood, the weather, and providence. Variety and texture assure that the spirit of the setting is distinctive. Ron captures the essence of our world without the burden of cumbersome detail. Whether intense and colorful or overcast with melancholy, en plein aire liberates personal thought and emotion. Enjoy fine art, fine food, and fine friends with hosts Peggy and Stephen Snavely at the “For Your Eyes Only” celebration. All proceeds benefit the visually impaired of our area through the Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh. Telephone 412-368-4400, extension 2292 for tickets and information. Reservations are required prior to the event. Hope to see you there! 

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Just Down the Road—continued from page 80 Side Note: E-coli bacteria transfer is a concern with regard to petting zoos. Keep in mind that the animals presented at the Washington County Agricultural Fair are cared for daily by competent farm workers who take pride in the cleanliness of their charge. Sanitation is paramount.  The 2006 fair dates are August 12–19. Telephone the fair office at 724-225-7718 for additional information. Handicap parking is available. Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

CELEBRATING 11 YEARS

Advertiser Index S u m m e r Advertiser

Page

Adelphia .............................................................................................................59 Affordable Decks & Additions .............................................................................49 * Amel’s Restaurant ...............................................................................................27 * Angelo Associates, Inc. ......................................................................................44 APD Building Services, LLC ...............................................................................48 Beach Club Marina .............................................................................................75 * Bedner’s Farm Market .........................................................................................47 Beth El Nursery School .......................................................................................77 Bill Gray Automotive ...........................................................................................67 Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company ...............................................................48 C. W. Carlson Contractors, Inc. ..........................................................................49 * Café Georgio’s ....................................................................................................27 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service ...............................................................................61 California University of Pennsylvania ...................................................................9 * Carlson Wagonlit Travel ......................................................................................38 Case of South Pittsburgh, LLC ...........................................................................44 Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior ..........................................81 Cavrich Law Offices, LLC .....................................................................................7 Chatham College ..................................................................................................4 * Clark Construction Company .............................................................................43 * Coffey Contracting Company ..............................................................................47 Cohen & Grigsby–*Bruce Gabler .......................................................................69 * Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria, USC, South Hills Offices .........................................................................52, 53 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate ............................. Back outside cover Coldwell Banker–Waterdam Farms .....................................................................33 Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey ........................................................................71 Country Canvas Awnings ...................................................................................48 Crandall, Steven R., D.M.D. ................................................................................31 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. .......................................................................................68 Deckmasters Technologies .................................................................................44 Design on Main ..................................................................................................48 Extended Day Services .......................................................................................74 Falsetti, Diane M., D.M.D. ..................................................................................63 * Ferry Electric Company ......................................................................................49 * Gateway Engineers .............................................................................................69 * George Girty Landscape Design .........................................................................44 *Ghelarducci’s Garden Center ..............................................................................81 Handyman Matters .............................................................................................45 Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. ..........................................................................................19 * Henderson Brothers, Inc. ....................................................................................22 * Howard Hanna Real Estate Services ........................................... Front inside cover Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh .................................................................13 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley ...........................................................................25 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ...........................................................................65 * Jaro Interiors, Inc. ..............................................................................................42 Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh ................................................77 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ..................................................35 Keller Williams–Karen Marshall Group ..............................................................19

PUBLICATION

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Advertiser

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* Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...................................................................39 Louis Anthony Jewelers .............................................................Back insider cover * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ....................................................................................38 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy ..................................................81 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ..........................................................................74 Nancy Sakino Spears, LLC .................................................................................47 Northwood Realty–Bonnie Detwiler and Marlene McNaughton ..........................68 Oxford Mortgage–David and Cheryl Bayne .........................................................57 P & W SAAB .......................................................................................................84 Pare´, Amelia, M.D. ............................................................................................61 Pautler, Simona V., MD, FACS ............................................................................84 Pawlak’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning ..................................................47 Petrelli & Sons, A. Inc. .......................................................................................49 Piccolina’s Restaurant .........................................................................................39 * Pinebridge Commons Associates .......................................................................38 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet .......................................................................................74 Preferred Primary Care Physicians .....................................................................56 Providence Point .................................................................. Front cover, 1, 20, 21 * Prudential Preferred Realty–Route 19 South .......................................................41 Prudential Preferred Realty–Terry Abbott ............................................................57 * Prudential Preferred Realty–Judy Ward ..............................................................23 * Regis McQuaide & Co. Master Remodelers, Inc. ................................................42 Rohrich Cadillac .................................................................................................13 * Rusmur Floors ....................................................................................................83 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .........................................................................42 * Sesame Inn .........................................................................................................27 Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics ......................................................................71 * Shields & Lesko, P.C. .........................................................................................56 * Silk Road Gourmet Chinese Restaurant ..............................................................27 * South Hill Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, P.C. ................................................59 * St. Clair Fitness & Racquet Club ........................................................................74 * St. Clair Hospital ..................................................................................................2 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ..................................................................38 Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates, Inc. .............................................................33 The Little Gym of Pittsburgh–South Hills ...........................................................75 * The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, Inc. .......................................................76 Trax Farms ..........................................................................................................43 * Valley Brook Family Dental .................................................................................19 Valley Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. ...............................................................45 Washington Wild Things ......................................................................................3 Watermark Financial ...........................................................................................65 Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas .................................................................62 Westminster Presbyterian Church .......................................................................77

Classifieds To place your small business or professional ad in the classified section, send 35 words or less with a check for $75, made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Advertise with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, in publication since 1994. Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 • Fax: 412-851-2592 • Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine *The above VIP advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 23 issues. 82

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2006

COLDWELL BANKER Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!

Provincial, leaded glass doors, 2 story marble entry, curved staircase, 4Br, 3.5Ba, familyrm, gamerm, Govnr’s Drive. $650,000 Anita Crago 412-344-0500

Custom Provincial, 2 story entry, spacious throughout, 4Br, 2.5Ba, island kit, 1st flr laundry, den, familyrm, deck. $439,900 Gladys Walasik 412-344-0500

Charming colonial on gorgeous, setting in “Old Trotwood”. Gourmet kitchen, 3Br, 2.5Ba, den, familyrm, 2 fireplaces. $425,000 Nancy Heffernan 412-344-0500

Deerfield Manor! Neutral, tasteful decor, new kit, 4Br, 2.5Ba, familyrm fireplace, gamerm, deck. $317,500 Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405

Spacious colonial, neutral decor, updates, 4Br, 2.5Ba, familyrm fireplace, oversized deck, nice lot! $298,900 Sydnie Jones 412-344-0500

Spacious multi-level updated, 3Br, 3Ba, livingrm & familyrm fireplace, lower level suite, great yard! $289,900 Judy Hlister 412-833-5405

Gorgeous, updated split entry! New oak kitchen & appliances, familyrm, 2 fireplaces, 4Br, 2.5Ba, French doors to deck! $249,900 Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405

Spacious cape cod on wooded lot! Large kit, livingrm & gamerm fireplace, den, 4Br, 2Ba, lots of storage! $234,900 Carmela Viviano 412-344-0500

Completely updated 5Br, 2.5Ba colonial, marble entry, maple & granite kit, familyrm fireplace and more! $224,900 Monica Mahla 412-831-5555

Quality built 3Br, 2Ba brick ranch! Livingrm & gamerm fireplace, skylights, solarium opens to level yard. $189,900 Pat Paslowski 412-833-5405

Great floor plan, updated kit & baths, familyrm fireplace, gamerm, 4Br, 2.5Ba, slider to covered deck & patio! $185,000 Leigh Harkreader 412-344-0500

Generous room sizes in this 2 story colonial, neutral decor, familyrm fireplace, 4Br, 2.5Ba, deck, extra wide lot! $175,000 Kathi Kernan 412-344-0500

Remodeled & updated brick split entry, neutral decor, gamerm fireplace, 3Br, 2Ba, ready to move in! $169,900 Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT Incorporated.

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Updated 3Br, 1.5Ba brick colonial, livingroom fireplace, gameroom, large deck! $119,900 Janine Dillon 412-833-5405

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