SUMMER 2011 by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

SUMMER 2011

in USC e m o At H

USC Community Day Issue

www.twpusc.org/magazine

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

You can

grow here.

What did you think our senior living community was? You think it’s for old people? For failing health? For sitting around? Boy, you’re missing the boat. People grow here. They get out, explore, have more experiences. Rich friendships, travel, golf, bridge, culture. They live the rest of their lives, the part in between retiring and the point where life insurance pays off. In between: That’s where the good stuff is. That’s where you grow. Friendship Village of South Hills. Call 1.800.914.8117 and start the adventure.

1290 Boyce Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 www.friendshipvillagepa.com

Grow your talents and discover new ones. Expand your mind and explore the world. You’ll be amazed at the big thinking – and big opportunities – that unfold everyday at Chatham. Take classes in another country. Learn what it means to live green. Develop an entrepreneurial spirit. And get involved in the world on a more meaningful level. Small class sizes and dedicated professors let you soar and explore in unbelievable ways.

Chatham advantages • Experience a distinctive education built upon women’s leadership, environmental awareness, and global understanding • Study on our historic 39-acre Shadyside Campus, minutes from downtown, and at our 388-acre Eden Hall Campus north of Pittsburgh • SAT/ACT optional admissions policy available for first-year students • Nearly 95% of Chatham undergraduate students receive some form of merit or need-based scholarship • All first-year students and most transfers are provided with a new 13-inch MacBook Pro laptop computer for use in the classroom and throughout our wireless campus • Most students have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Chatham in as few as five years from many of our graduate programs • Study abroad almost anywhere in the world during Maymester term, a full term, or a full year

chatham.edu

Woodland Road . . . Pittsburgh, PA 15232 800-837-1290 . . . admission@chatham.edu

Friendship Village of South Hills is one of only 15% of communities nationwide accredited for quality practices in administration, finance, care and services to residents.

Big thinking for a big world

CONTINUED GROWT

Raye J. Budway, M.D.

St. Clair Hospital welcomes Raye J. Budway, M.D. Raye J. Budway, M.D., a 2011 Pittsburgh Magazine ‘Top Doctor,’ has relocated her practice to St. Clair Hospital. Dr. Budway specializes in breast and general surgery. To schedule an appointment at Dr. Budway’s new office in the St. Clair Professional Office Building, 1050 Bower Hill Road, Suite 302, call 412-942-5600. 1000 BOWER HILL ROAD

. MT. LEBANON, PENNSYLVANIA 15243 . 412-942-4000 . WWW.STCLAIR.ORG

Raye J. Budway, M.D. earned her medical degree at Hahnemann University in Philadelphia. She completed her residency training in General Surgery at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital and her additional training in Surgical Critical Care at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She served as the Site Surgical Clerkship Program Director for Temple University Medical School, Site Program Director for the Allegheny General Hospital General Surgery Residency program, Director of the Surgical Breast Disease Program and Surgical Intensive Care at the Western Pennsylvania Hospital. She is board certified in Surgical Critical Care and General Surgery. She is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and serves on the Fellowship's Commission on Cancer.

C oldwell B anker Jack & Joanne Benson

Jay Clemens

Barbara Cusick

Judy Hlister

Tulla Rakoczy

Hope Bassichis

Lynn Dempsey

Elaine Krelis

Stacy Romanias

Eleanor Carpenter

Marie Carpenter

Dal Goldstein

Carol Marks

Kathy Sekeras

Toni Petrucci

Jim Walsh

South Hills/USC Office

Bonnie Frear

Barbara Boyle, Manager

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

Real estate seRvices Nancy Beaulieu

Norma Bishop

Noel Bliman

Marcia Briner

Bonnie Byrnes

Anita Crago

Janine Dillon

Kathy Enick

John Geisler

Genie Gooding

Leigh Harkreader

Nancy Heffernan

Sydnie Jones

Sue Kelso

Kathi Kernan

Jane Krauth

Maria & Joe Lane

Julie Leslie

Joyce Lewis-McDonough

Arlene Murray

Mary Torchia

Carmela Viviano Mary Ann Wellener

David Bruckner, Manager

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS LOCAL TRADITIONS

Rt. 19 South/Galleria Office

1539 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412-344-0500 ©2011 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

She listened to her heart. We helped save it. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in American women, yet most people are unaware of the common symptoms. Thankfully, Judy Brestensky relied on her intuition after experiencing heart palpitations, shortness of breath and fatigue and sought help from Allegheny General Hospital’s Women’s Heart Center. There, she found a team of physicians who took the time to listen to her, then diagnose and treat her in a way that helped save her life. As a national leader in cardiac care, we’re dedicated to helping women gain a greater awareness of cardiovascular disease and ways to prevent it. To make an appointment with one of our cardiology specialists, call 412-DOCTORS (362-8677) today.

ALLEGHENY GENERAL HOSPITAL Cardiovascular Institute

The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair Summer 2011

•

Volume 17

•

Issue 2

Features and Around the Township 10 Community Day 2011—Saturday, May 21

Our community-wide celebration will keep your family busy all day long. Take part!

18 From Here

h TODAY

it Traveling w

Erin Gibson Allen shares her thoughts on “Small Spaces; Huge Results.”

20 Gilfillan is for the Birds

Many a bird call Gilfillan Farm “home.” What feathered friends can we spot here?

76 Town Hall South 2011-12 Lecture Series

High quality line up provides audience appeal for Town Hall South’s upcoming 43rd season.

82 History of the 1830 Log House

Explore the heritage and history of one of our community’s earliest landmarks.

Township

30 Meet Gary Schafer

USC’s new Parks and Forestry administrator introduces himself, and, then on page 56, he discusses healthy soil.

32 Sanitary Sewer Improvements

lassroom e Outdoor C h T t a es om its, Healthy H Healthy Hab

USC’s wastewater collection infrastructure is up to code and incorporates the latest of technologies to do so.

33 It’s Street Resurfacing Season

Warm weather is the right time for street resurfacing, keeping our Township roads safe and free of defects.

34 Electric vs. Electronic, Fluorescent vs. Incandescent

The Township works toward sustainability in an “electric” sort of way.

38 @ Your Library

Summertime means summer library programs for our Township’s youth and adults.

School District

58 USCSD Named to AP® Achievement List

Less than 400 schools nationwide are honored for opening AP classroom doors to a larger spectrum of students. USC is one of those schools.

60 The Music Man Delights Young and Old

s World Math

Friends of A

Day

USCHS’s actors, singers, dancers, and musicians entertained audiences in every way.

64 Odyssey of the Mind

Ten USC teams competed in creative problem solving.

70 Did You Know?

Learn about some events and happenings in and around our schools.

73 USC Summer School Program

Summertime kicks off educational offerings for students, grades K-12.

Guides

USC Photo Ops

13 Community Day 2010 26 Summer Activities 42 Pinebridge Commons 74 TODAY Spotlights the Community Foundation 50 Home & Garden 78 Events of Interest

Cover

ll Ages

16 DECKMASTERS Technologies Incorporated, sponsor of the summer 2011 cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, is featured with an article on pages 16 and 17. A homegrown success story, Patrick Henry Nicholson with wife, Judy, and daughters Jennifer, Christina, and Rebecca are a long-time Upper St. Clair family that have achieved the American dream with DECKMASTERS. Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

17 Years of

Community Service

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community maga-

Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate Alison Hess, Advertising Associate Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Andrew McCreery, Finance

zine 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. This year, we celebrate 17 years of publication.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY steering committee and staff members are, left to right, front row: Lynn Dempsey, Alison Hess, Erin Allen, and Colleen DeMarco; back row: Mark Mansfield, Linda Dudzinski, Dorothy Clark, Terry Kish, and Andrew McCreery. Missing from photo is Paul Fox.

The 66 th 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.

Board of School Directors

Township Board of Commissioners

Harry F. Kunselman President Rebecca A. Stern, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Barbara L. Bolas Frank J. Kerber Bruce L. Kerman Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Angela B. Petersen Louis A. Piconi

Robert W. Orchowski, President, Ward 3 Glenn R. Dandoy, Vice President, At Large Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1 Mark R. Hamilton, Ward 2 Mark D. Christie, Ward 4 Russell R. Del Re, Ward 5 Daniel R. Paoly, At Large

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Cindy Brophy, Sharon Byrnes, Nancy Chase, Cathy Davin, Sunny Disney Fitchett, Dan Flatz, Dina Fulmer, Kathy Gillen, Sara Homol, Jessica Kester, Dave Kutschbach, Stacie de la Parra, Glenn Prokopovitch, Russell Rauch, Laura Reid Riggin, Jennifer Roberts, Amanda Sanderson, Ron Sarrick, Gary Schafer, Mary Lynne Spazok, Linda Spencer, Shannon Thompson, and Kevin Trichtinger

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.

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. Email usctoday@uscsc.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Fall 2011 issue and will be published in August 2011. 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:

The 66th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, 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 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Herrmann Printing & Litho, Inc. 1709 Douglass Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-243-4100 • Fax: 412-731-2268 Design by DMC Design 412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com 6

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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.

Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. 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. What They Said The response from the public regarding our winter 2011 TODAY cover was excellent. It was a great way to connect with the local community and raise awareness for family-owned businesses. —The Guarino family of Louis Anthony Jewelers

Deadline for articles and advertising for the Fall edition is June 23, 2011. Article Information

Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Advertising Information

Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284, fax: 412-851-2592

Website www.twpusc.org/magazine Summer 2011

Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

... meeting your needs TODAY, Tomorrow, and into the Future.

Summer Season of Plays TUNA DOES VEGAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5/5-5/21 Come along for the laughs when the gang from Tuna, Texas heads to Sin City—showgirls, jackpots— and, may we say: "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!" Hilarious Season Opener.

MORNING’S AT SEVEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5/26-6/11 Charming and funny: After 12 years of dating, Homer is bringing his girl home to meet Aunts Cora, Ida, Arronetta and Esther.

STANTON’S GARAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6/16-7/2 Stranded with a broken down Volvo in the middle of nowhere. Richly drawn characters provide lots of laughs!

COMIC POTENTIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7/7-7/23 A beautiful actress (who also happens to be a robot) learns about custard pies, comic double-takes and falling in love.

Dooby Dooby Moo

/ A Peter Rabbit Tale

Miss Nelson is Missing!

www.littlelake.org / 724-745-6300

Find strength in our care. HarmonyHospice 412.276.4700 • harmonyhospice.com Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole

Matthew R. Serakowski

Welcome to the summer 2011 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. As publishers of this magazine, we look forward to this issue each year with warm anticipation as it showcases Upper St. Clair Community Day, our township’s annual celebration of community involvement. Look to pages 10-12, which include the line up of the day’s events, this year to be held Saturday, May 21. “Community Day” is a combination of words that means a lot more if you live in Upper St. Clair! The events surrounding Community Day are a mere glimpse of what Upper St. Clair offers year-round. Every organization, club, neighborhood, and school community creates the mosaic of what we know to be the fabric of Upper St. Clair. Each resident, who contributes in his or her way, plays a part in the reason our township enjoys such a high quality of life. In addition to our coverage of Community Day, Upper St. Clair Township is pleased to report on USC’s sanitary sewer system and the streets resurfacing project (pages 32-33). The Township library relays information about its summer reading programs for adults and youth (pages 38-41). The Outdoor Classroom shares its summer program information (page 36), and the USC Volunteer Fire Department imparts the necessity for safety while doing those summer projects around the house (pages 48-49). Upper St. Clair School District highlights its successful and entertaining spring musical, The Music Man (page 60), showcases its elementary schools celebration of World Maths Day (pages 62-63), writes about the creative venture of Odyssey of the Mind (pages 64-65), provides tidbits of information through Did You Know? (pages 70-71), and lists its summer school program information (page 73). In addition to informative news about our township and school district as well as many interesting community stories, advertising feature sections provide guides for summer activity fun (pages 26-28)and home and garden projects (pages 50-56). Please read, learn, and enjoy! While we enjoy being together and celebrating each other on Upper St. Clair Community Day, please remember that every day is a true celebration of living and working together. As with life, there is no such thing as a makeup day. So, please join us on May 21 for a fun-filled, family experience and take pride and acknowledgement in the fact that you’re a big part of the reason Upper St. Clair is such a special place to live! Have a great summer season and we hope to see you around, enjoying our community.

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools

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

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

www.twpusc.org/magazine

usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Plastic Surgical Associates of Pittsburgh Robert W. Bragdon, M.D., F.A.C.S.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Community Day Activities

Annual Community Day Schedule Saturday, May 21, 2011 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 11

See USC Community Day 2010 photo collage on page 13

The Run for Fun will begin at 9 a.m. sharp! Complete the registration form found on page 11 to make your “day of” registration quick and easy. 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. Awards will be presented at 1:30 p.m. Clair’s Kennel will be open 11 a.m.-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 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Baked goods will be available for purchase before and during the parade. In addition to the tours, there will be an herb sale, pioneer games, and Knapp’s Battery E reenactor. The annual Community Day Parade will begin at 11:30 a.m. The parade will follow the route from Truxton Drive, along McLaughlin Run Road to Panther Pass, and up to the high school. The 1857 Gilfillan Farm House, a work of restoration in progress, and the surrounding buildings will be open on Community Day, noon-3 p.m. Visit the farm for house tours, to see the farm animals, and organic gardening information. The Imagination Station will be located in the library parking lot. All ages are welcome to stop by and engage in creative art and science activities, noon-3 p.m. The Inflatable Attraction and Trackless Train will be operating in the library parking lot, noon-4 p.m. These activities will be offered free of charge thanks to patron donations. The Petting Zoo will be located behind the library and will be open noon-4 p.m. Children can visit the animals at no cost. There is a minimal fee for food and milk for the animals. A water balloon toss will take place at 2:30 p.m. The Duck Race, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, will start at 3:30 p.m. Watch for information on pre-adopting your duck, or buy your duck at the Community Foundation booth on Community Day. For more information, see page 14. 

Time to Blast Off PANTHERS IN SPACE...! 10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

9 a.m. . ................................................................... Run for Fun High School Stadium Entrance (Truxton Drive) 9:30-10:30 a.m. .................................... “Hottest Dog” Contest Stage Area—Registration form on page 11 10:30 a.m. . .................................................................. Bake Off Stage Area (See page 12) 11 a.m.-3 p.m. ...............................Clair’s Kennel Open House Log House Open House and Herb Sale 11:30 a.m......................................................................... Parade Noon-3 p.m.................................................Gilfillan Farm and Homestead Tours

Imagination Station Library Parking Lot

Noon-4 p.m...............................................Inflatable Attraction and Trackless Train Petting Zoo Library Parking Lot Pony Rides Behind Recreation Center Noon-5 p.m............................................................. Fair Booths Entertainment Stage Area Treasure Hunt Booth #1 1-2 p.m........................................................... All About Games 1:30 p.m....................................................Run for Fun Awards 2 p.m......................................................................Toddler Trot Founders’ Field 2:30 p.m..................................................... Water Balloon Toss Founders’ Field 3:30 p.m.................................................................... Duck Race McLaughlin Run Creek

Shuttle Bus Parking

Shuttle bus service will be available to the Municipal Building and C&RC at Boyce Mayview Park 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 Please be advised that permit parking only will be allowed in the Public Works parking lot on Truxton Drive.

USC Community Day Community Day Run for Fun When: Saturday, May 21, 2011. 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. Advance Registration:

Pre-registered runners should pick up their race packets between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. on the day of the race at the high school track parking lot on Truxton Drive.

Late Registration: $4 the day of the race. Registration will be held at the high school parking lot on Truxton Drive the morning of the race from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. Please arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. to allow sufficient time for registration and bring your completed “Day Of” registration form found below for a quicker registration process.

Come Come visit visit our our Treasure Treasure Hunt Hunt Booth Booth during during Community Community Day Day

Awards will be presented at 1:30 p.m. at a location to be an-

nounced. First, second, and third place finishers will have times posted at Community Day. Full results and times will be available on the following Monday at the Recreation Department Office. Please check the Township website for future posting.

Come run for fun and exercise. Bring the whole family! No pets please! Awards for first, second, and third places will be given in the following age groups. (Please note, this is not a sanctioned race.) FEMALE MALE • 8 & under • 20 to 29 • 8 & under • 20 to 29 • 9 to 11 • 30 to 39 • 9 to 11 • 30 to 39 • 12 to 14 • 40 to 49 • 12 to 14 • 40 to 49 • 15 to 19 • 50 & over • 15 to 19 • 50 & over

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USC Community Day Run For Fun “Day Of” Registration Form Name_____________________________________________ Age as of May 21, 2011_____________

Sex____________

Address___________________________________________ Telephone Number_________________________________ Email (optional)____________________________________ $4—Day of Registration Make checks payable to:

Upper St. Clair Community Day Bring this completed form with you to “Day Of” registration.

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

(Parent/Guardian if Under 18 Years of Age)

Date

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Community Day nnual USC Ba A keth Of h f Eig Community Day – May 21, 2011

Sponsored by

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services Kids, don’t miss this chance to show off your culinary skills! Prizes for winners in each of the following three dessert categories plus a grand prize winner!

Congratulates and Supports the Township of Upper St. Clair and

Most Patriotic Most Original Home Sweet Home

Upper St. Clair School District In Their Combined Efforts to Provide

Based on appearance, not edibility. Pre-registration required.

Township Residents

For more information and to register call: David Bruckner- 412-344-0500

A Fun & Enjoyable

“Panthers in Space” Community Day 2011! For advertising opportunities and article ideas, contact: www.twpusc.org/magazine usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

©2011 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

Community Day 2011 Volunteers Upper St. Clair School District Danny Holzer, Director of Student Activities Sheila Bartlett Lloyd, Assistant Director of Student Activities Student Volunteer Chairs: Overall–Anas Hoque and Mario Arjona Auxiliary–Gabby Ridge and Keeley Carson Booths–Constance Raftis, Anne Steen, and Liz Vargo Toddler Trot–Julie Roehner and Julianne Tarullo Entertainment–Sterling Cahn, Anthony Cugini, and Victoria Lazur All About Games–Cara Mendelson, Sammie Teel, and Maggie Simpson Parking Lots–Alivia Fink and Jordan Serio Run for Fun–Parker Cahn and Emily Roarty Parade–Michele Mellick, Cooper Podobnik, and Sarah Tepe Publicity–Zach Tobias and Shane Heil T-Shirts–Anas Hoque

Township of Upper St. Clair Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services Ryan McCleaster, Assistant Director of Recreation and Leisure Services Lynn Walcoff, Community Programs Coordinator George Kostelich, Director of Public Works Rich Botz, Superintendent of Operations Dave Kutschbach, Superintendent of Projects Ronald J. Pardini, Chief of Police Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator Glenn Ward, Upper St. Clair Public Access Television Other USC Groups Upper St. Clair Historical Society, Gilfillan Homestead and Farm– Jean Brown 1830 Log House Association–Kim Guzzi Community-at-Large–Bill Findle, Shari Leckenby, Larry Lehman, Carla Roehner, Heather Slinger, Kelli Sharkey Winseck, and others.

Fair Booths open noon-5 p.m.—Plan to spend the day. A Community Day wrap-up, including a complete list of all patrons will appear in the Fall 2011 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. We thank our kind and generous patrons for their financial and in-kind support of Community Day 2011! 12

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

USC Community Day

Memories... Community Day 2010

Photos by Terry Kish Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair presents The 13th Annual Community Day Duck Race There is a “duck adoption” option for everyone:

A Pack of Quackers

Race Time ~ 3:30

A Quack Pack

6 for $25

15 for $50

$5.00 each

If you haven’t adopted your duck by Race Day, be sure to stop by the CFUSC booth.

JUST A SAMPLING OF THIS YEAR’S PRIZES Child’s gift basket

PSO BNY Mellon Grand Classic Concert Tickets

Gift Certificate

Piccolina’s Restaurant Gift Certiﬁcate

Child’s birthday party at Community & Recreation Center

iPad 2

4 tickets to WICKED on 9/14/11

LeMont Restaurant Gift Certiﬁcate

The mission of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is to build a sense of community through efforts that enhance the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair by addressing major areas that directly affect our lives: Education & Life-Long Learning Fine & Performing Arts Recreation & Leisure Science Technology

THANK YOU FOR ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY BY GENEROUSLY SUPPORTING THE ACTIVITIES OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF UPPER ST. CLAIR 14

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

The TheCommunity CommunityFoundation Foundationof ofUpper UpperSt. St.Clair Clairisisaanonprofit, nonprofit, charitable charitableorganization organizationcommitted committedtotocreating creatingaasense sense of ofcommunity communitythrough throughenhancing enhancingthe thequality qualityof oflife life for forall allthe thepeople peopleof ofUpper UpperSt. St.Clair. Clair.

2011 2011 Community Community Foundation Foundation of of Upper Upper St. St. Clair Clair Board Board of of Trustees Trustees SEATED, SEATED,l-r: l-r: Dick DickPatton Patton(Treasurer), (Treasurer),Celeste CelesteAcinapura Acinapura(Executive (ExecutiveDirector), Director),Angela AngelaPetersen Petersen(Board (BoardChairperson), Chairperson),Paul PaulFox Fox (Board (BoardVice-Chairperson), Vice-Chairperson),John JohnBarsotti Barsotti(Director (Directorofof Donor DonorRelations), Relations),Deepa DeepaGodbole Godbole(Secretary); (Secretary); STANDING: STANDING:Lynn LynnDempsey, Dempsey, Sandy SandyBoring, Boring,Jim JimBennett, Bennett,Linda LindaSerene, Serene,George GeorgePitcairn, Pitcairn,Vicki VickiMcKenna, McKenna,Buffy BuffyHasco; Hasco; Missing Missingfrom frompicture: picture:Janet JanetMosesso Mosesso

Grant Grant Requests Requests

The TheCommunity CommunityFoundation FoundationofofUpper UpperSt. St.Clair Clairprovides providesgrant grantfunding fundingfor forprojects projectsthat thatare arenot notsupported supportedeconomically economically by Township or School District taxes. Grant requests must meet the Mission of the Community Foundation. by Township or School District taxes. Grant requests must meet the Mission of the Community Foundation.Requests Requests are areapproved approvedusing usingcriteria criteriathat thatask askififthe thegrant grantwould wouldbe be“creating “creatingaasense senseofofcommunity communitythrough throughenhancing enhancingthe the quality qualityofoflife lifefor forall allthe thepeople peopleofofUpper UpperSt. St.Clair.” Clair.” The Thegrant grantprocess processcan canonly onlywork workififtwo twothings thingshappen happen— —and andthey theyboth bothinvolve involveyou: you: First — we need and appreciate your support at fundraisers and the annual year-end First — we need and appreciate your support at fundraisers and the annual year-endfund funddrive. drive. Second Second—we —weneed needyou youtotosubmit submitgrant grantrequests. requests. IfIfyou youhave haveaavision visionto tomake makeUSC USCan anever everbetter betterplace placein inwhich whichto tolive, live,go goto to www.mainstreetusc.com/cfusc/grants.htm, www.mainstreetusc.com/cfusc/grants.htm, click clickon onthe themenu menuoption optionGrant GrantApplication, Application,download downloadthe theguidelines guidelinesand andapplication, application, and andfollow followthe thedirections directionsfor forsubmitting submittingyour yourrequest. request.

Email Email saves saves money money The Theability abilitytotocommunicate communicatewith withUSC USCresidents residentsvia viaeMail eMailsaves savesprinting printingand andmailing mailingcosts, costs,funds fundsthat that could be better used implementing the mission of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. could be better used implementing the mission of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. To Toadd addyour youreMail eMailaddress addresstotothe thegrowing growingbase, base,send sendaarequest requesttotomainstreetusc@gmail.com. mainstreetusc@gmail.com. All All addresses addressesare areheld heldininstrictest strictestconfidence confidenceand andwill willnot notbe beshared. shared.

COMMUNITY COMMUNITYFOUNDATION FOUNDATIONOF OFUPPER UPPERST. ST.CLAIR CLAIR 2585 Washington Road, Suite 131A • Upper St. Clair, 2585 Washington Road, Suite 131A • Upper St. Clair,PA PA15241 15241 ((412) 831-1107 FAX (412) 220-7780 mainstreetusc@gmail.com www .mainstreetusc.com 412) 831-1107 FAX (412) 220-7780 mainstreetusc@gmail.com www.mainstreetusc.com Board BoardofofTrustees Trusteesmeetings meetingsare areheld heldininthe theCard CardRoom RoomatatFriendship FriendshipVillage Villageon onBoyce BoyceRoad Roadatat7:30 7:30PM PMon onthe thesecond secondTuesday Tuesday ofofFebruary, February,March, March,May, May,September, September,October Octoberand andNovember. November. Residents Residentsare arewelcome welcometotoattend attendthe themeetings. meetings.

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

A Home Grown American Success Story Living in the land of the free really can be great!

Where else in the world can a country boy from America’s north shore near Erie, Pennsylvania, have the opportunity to think sharp, work hard, and succeed at building a business from scratch that now benefits everyday citizens from coast to coast? To Patrick Henry Nicholson, at age 17 and his father gone, life was a little challenging. The family’s move from Erie’s farmlands to Pittsburgh’s North Side during the turbulent late 60s was, to say the least, eye opening! It wasn’t until the family moved to Pittsburgh’s South Hills that things began to look more enterprising. After graduating from Keystone Oaks High School, with no farm crops to pick in uptown Dormont, Pat looked to his father’s past trade—construction—for a way to make money for evening college courses in residential architecture, his planned future. During this time, Pat met Judy Kress, his first true love, at The Linden Grove Dance in Castle Shannon. He later married her and soon came upon a game-changing opportunity to pursue his then second love, carpentry. Pat was offered a job at the bottom of the food chain as an apprentice carpenter, learning “old trade” skills from two master carpenters at the famed original Mac & Mac Home Builders of Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair. The pay was minimal and life became more challenging, but Pat’s dreams were big and he was ready, willing, and able to learn to build high-end quality homes. Pat did just that for many years until, as in today’s economics, a recession slowed the home building industry to a screeching halt. Layoff and unemployment were not part of Pat’s future plans. It was time to start again, make his own way, and open his own business, Nicholson Quality Home. Originally a general remodeling company, the enterprise started sluggishly. Projects varied and the learning curve related to each new type of job slowed progress. Pat’s home in Mt. Lebanon became too small for Judy and his growing family of three young girls: Jennifer, Christina, and Rebecca. An opportunity to purchase a larger older ranch in Upper St. Clair—that needed a complete remodel—became available. Running the business while, at the same time, completely rebuilding the home that he and his family lived in required a lot of out-of-the-box thinking. Thankfully, Pat’s family was understanding and supportive, but his business needed to become more controllable. Pat decided to stop general remodeling and specialize in a niche market. This concept, although not common at the time, altered his carpentry services forever. Pat had previously used his artistic abilities to design and build a few of what was then a new concept in home improvements—custom sun decks. After placing local advertisements showcasing his deck specialization talents, Pat’s business model changed rapidly. The phone began ringing off the hook from potential deck customers. Remodeling and building houses soon became a job of the past. There was only time in his typical 12- to14-hour workday for designing and building decks, porches, and sunrooms. The rapidly outdated company name, Nicholson Quality Home, needed to be changed. 16

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Nicholson Decks worked for a while until the company grew larger, employed more carpenters, and grew beyond the South Hills into the Greater Pittsburgh area. Pat poured his heart and soul into developing a specific system of operations that offered consistent high quality decks at competitive prices. The result? Happy clients! The die was cast.

Pat Nicholson’s motto “Can do!” He enjoys his artistic design-build talents and uses his own carpenters in the South Hills.

With increased deck demand from satisfied, repeat customers, came more referral opportunities for business growth. To continue improving total quality management—a must of Pat’s—additional schooling and training were offered to his growing staff of carpenters. More trucks, more local offices, more warehouses… well, you get the picture. Pat became the teacher with his new goal to build professional construction manuals for his carpenters based on national educational programs and his own hands-on expertise. Long before becoming popular, Pat offered his prospective clients one of the industries greatest benefits—the art and science of 3D “CADD,” computer aided drafting design. This progressive drafting clearly presented to the clients how DECKMASTERS could help to complement their homes.

Office staff, left to right: Judy Nicholson, accounting; Mark Raich, CADD and marketing; Lisa Ambrose, client service manager (and PA AAA champion USCHS hockey team mom!)

Talented carpenters continued to develop under Pat’s watch and they were ready to take on additional challenges. Finally, the franchise system, DECKMASTERS Technologies, Incorporated was born out of a necessity to keep up with the growing business and additional team members. The name “DECKMASTERS” became a registered trademark and the company was winning scores of local and national awards. Trend-setting, earth friendly innovative materials were being used, and local and national magazines were writing feature articles about DECKMASTERS’ fine art of deck building. Accomplished employees were becoming franchise owners and training new carpenters, using the evolving DECKMASTERS’ manuals. The company outgrew the Pittsburgh-only market, and expanded north to Erie, west to Youngstown and Akron, and then further into the Greater Cleveland area. As the new franchises prospered, the east coast of the United States came into play, with the addition of New Jersey and New York franchises. But it did not stop there. The west coast was now calling, and Pat found himself in San Francisco assisting yet another talented carpenter team. DECKMASTERS was coast-to-coast and still growing! What started in Upper St. Clair, with an independent carpenter in the business of making friends by taking care of customers with an “old fashioned” quality building service, has now grown into a highly successful national enterprise of which Pat Nicholson is extremely proud. In 1993, Patrick Henry Nicholson CR, CEO earned the credential of becoming one the few NARI National Certified Remodelers in Western Pennsylvania and, in 1994, his corporation, DECKMASTERS Technologies Incorporated, was named one of the Top 50 Remodeling Companies in America. Pat served as president of the local board of directors for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. He has also served on the executive board of directors of the Better Business Bureau. Locally, both Pat and Judy were on the Upper St. Clair School band board of directors with local legend Jim Bennett. Each of their girls received a solid education from the USC School District, and furthered their academics at local institutions, including Robert Morris, Pitt, Point Park, and Penn State. While at USC, all three girls were all highly involved with the school’s

Local franchisees, left to right: Alex Sharanevych, Bob Malenfant, Crystal Riggs, and Joe Walker

activities, including band, color guard, lacrosse, Pantherettes, and cheerleading. During these school years, Pat and Judy were USC band and cheerleading parent volunteers and helped with game concessions for lacrosse and football. Pat and July remain residents of USC, continue to sponsor USC school athletics, and annually enjoy USC Community Day by helping with the community booths and driving their antique vehicles in the parade. It is amazing what proud people who rally for a good cause in America can accomplish. Old fashioned family values and a good work ethic can make all the difference in the success of any worthy enterprise. It is also interesting that this particular professional franchise system, by relationship, has created employment for over 50 team members nationally. After almost 40 years of setting the standards for reliable client services, DECKMASTERS still offers consistent high quality decks that produce a superior return on customer investment within a comfortable budget. Pride in tradition swells from the core of this community trusted corporation, and the future is bright. With his first-class talented team of office staff, designers, production managers, carpenters, and franchisees, Pat Nicholson is expanding DECKMASTERS’ industry-leader reputation well into America’s next generation. It’s rewarding to share a homegrown success story, thanks to artistic thinking, good old-fashioned hard work, and quality-minded clientele. And to think that it all started right here in the Township of Upper St. Clair! n

South Hills carpenter team, left to right, front row: Glenn Kasmarik, John Kiss; back row: Mike Davin, Sam Bauer, Tim Bowman, Mike Matta, Randy Fink, John Cain, Cliff Nicholson, Jon Bilsky

For information about DECKMASTERS Technologies Incorporated, located at 1887 Painters Run Road, USC, PA 15241, telephone 412-257-1970 or surf the web at www.deckmasters-tech.com.

DECKMASTERS—Building the Great American Outback! Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

e r e H m Fro

Small Spaces; Huge Results Erin Gibson Allen

If my house published its own daily newspaper, the above-the-fold headline last fall would have read, “Freak events leave woman of household in state of domestic chaos.” The corresponding photo may have shown me, the aforementioned woman, with teeth and lips clenched, clutching a can of coffee and cup of paperclips. The article would explain that a series of three mini simultaneous disasters involving three closets left the woman feeling unfairly targeted by some yet undetermined force. The affected spaces, the article would explain, were the woman’s closet, the den closet, and the kitchen pantry. In each of the spaces, within weeks of each other, a wire shelf, apparently weary from decades of weight-bearing activity, detached from the drywall, ripping the screws from the walls and spilling the shelves’ contents everywhere. The article would further explain that, as a result of these untimely events, the quality of life in the house was compromised. These facts, dear reader, shocking though they may be, are true. Through the busy winter season, I gingerly picked clothes off the floor of my closet. At the end of the day, like a self-absorbed teenager, I gently tossed the clothes back in. More formal clothes I spread over an extra bed in the guest room, when it was not in use. In the den, office supplies were placed in piles on the floor like a yard sale of computer paper and printer cartridges. If a family member needed a rubber band, he would venture in among the piles like he was starring in an episode of the television show Wipeout. Only the alert and agile came out unscathed. In the kitchen, anyone trying to put sundry items away in the pantry would be met with a yell, “Hey, hey, hey, don’t put that there! That shelf is propped up with a box and can only support napkins and nearly-empty boxes of cereal!” 18

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

A quote from the woman of the household on the problem: “Yes, this is not ideal, but we are determined, as a family, to look beyond the problem and enjoy our holiday season. This will be remedied in the New Year.” And so, in January, all three closets were emptied and a handyman was hired to work some minor magic with plaster, new shelves, and brackets. A television news reporter to the house doing a followup story would have described a constant buzz of organizational activity over the next several weeks. “The effort here is massive,” the reporter would relay. “The children, though, are starting to worry that even pets will be donated as the woman of the house seems to be clearing away debris like never before.” Giant bags of unworn clothes and suits (I have not had an office job for over a decade yet I still had the suits for sitting behind a desk) were hauled off to charities. Boxes of books were donated to the Upper St. Clair Friends of the Library. Old documents were shredded and the pantry was purged of cans of tomato paste “best consumed” over two years ago. “Welcome to the new and improved house,” the woman would reply to the news reporter. “We are living now without fear of pantry avalanches, den landmines, and bedroom closet black holes.” And, in fact, taking care of the small spaces made life in the rest of the house easier. Things flowed smoothly as there was less clutter to trip over and putting things away was again a blessed reality. Later, on an extended radio interview on her successful book on the three-fold closet experiences, the woman of the house would get philosophical about her experience. “Some of life’s biggest moments have their genesis in small, cramped spaces,” she would say while sipping a latte. “I just hope my book can help others who may face a similar challenge.” Absurdities aside, examples of small rooms with huge energy are all around us. This spring, my 12-year-old son was fortunate enough to be an extra in the high school musical, The Music Man. My jaw Summer 2011

dropped when I took him for a costume fitting and I saw the room where the musical “angels” sew and hem the cast’s costumes. The room was a small, windowless space where tables were pushed together, sewing machines were set up, and dozens of hands set to work making hats, knickers, and gowns. In the corner, a television played the Ron Howard version of the musical over and over. Jars of candy rested on tables among thimbles, needles, and notebooks. While I have seen dozens of high school musicals before, I had never imagined such a room existed. But it only makes sense. It is in the small but organized spaces where sleeves are rolled up and details are thought out. It is behind the scenes where small groups generate big ideas, and then divide and delegate the details. Good cooks know that some of the most splendid meals are fixed in small, ordered kitchens. Talented musicians know that their biggest advances are made late at night in cramped, windowless practice rooms. Football coaches spend endless hours in dark rooms reviewing films. Successful retail stores have backrooms full of inventory yet to be sold. There are small but important rooms all over the Township and School District, too—The PTA room at Streams, study rooms at the Township Library, and even the room that UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine claims as its office. Countless groups and committees meet and make plans in the “old rec center.” The ease of execution and impressiveness of the things that happen in large spaces are ruled by the quality work done first in quiet hours in the smaller, more remote rooms. It is to the backroom, hard-working people tending to specifics and minutiae with big ideas in mind that I dedicate my fictional book on my real life experience of coping with a three-closet catastrophe. You deserve your minute in the spotlight. n

I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas with me in person, or email me at eallen@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Flag Day, and Its History The American flag has changed designs more than any other flag in the world. The first flag, called the Grand Union, was first flown at the headquarters of the Continental Army on January 1, 1776. Betsy Ross, a seamstress, is said to have contributed to this design. She had an upholstery business which made flags for navy ships in Pennsylvania. A legend persists that she showed George Washington how to make a five-pointed star, and suggested 13 stars in a circle for the first flag. But according to history, she and George Washington never met! George Washington did design the Grand Union, but an often-quoted remark attributed to him might not be true: We take the stars from heaven, the red from our mother country, separate it by white in stripes, thus showing that we have separated from her. On June 14, 1777, Congress proposed that the United States have a national flag instead of the British Union Jack. The 13 stars of the flag represented the 13 new states. There were few public ceremonies honoring the Stars and Stripes until 1877, when on June 14, it was flown from every government building in honor of the centennial of the adoption of a national flag. Schools had unfurled American flags over their doors or outside the buildings long before this; but in 1890, North Dakota and New Jersey made a law that required their schools to fly the flag daily. The first official Flag Day was observed in Philadelphia in 1893. New York also proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day. Other states were slow to follow. Some people thought that the day was too close to Memorial Day and Independence Day. In August 1949, President Harry Truman proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day. Since then, our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s president proclaims the flagâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual commemoration and encourages all Americans in the country to display the Stars and Stripes outside their homes and business. Individual states determine how they will observe the day. Usually the flag is flown from all public buildings, speeches are made in public places, and ceremonies take place in towns and cities. Be proud to be an American. Fly your flag this Flag Day, Tuesday, June 14, in honor for which it stands. n Adapted from the Greek Catholic Union handbook about Flag Day Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Gilfillan is For the Birds! Mary Lynne Spazok and Shannon Thompson

Since 2001, I have penned articles for UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY about the herb garden at the 1830 Log House, and then flora and organic vegetable gardening at the Gilfillan Homestead. For this edition, I am focusing on birds. Why? I have been remiss, and lack of knowledge is a contributing factor. While I adore the cardinal but shoo away the occasional pre-dawn pesky woodpecker, the array of flamboyant feathered friends in Upper St. Clair is vast. I called upon Shannon Thompson, who spends her dewy mornings and warm sunsets tending the bountiful front garden of Gilfillan. Her hours of observation assert that the trail around Gilfillan is a fine place to bird watch. In the spring 2011 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, I mentioned Linneaus, the Swedish botanist, zoologist, and physician who tagged daffodil species. I have come to learn that he was instrumental in the classification of bird species, Systema naturae, as well. With one of the few remaining working barns in the South Hills, Gilfillan is host to the Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica). A distinctive bird with bold blue plumage, its orange-buff breast and belly make it easy to recognize. Its head, a deep blue with russett accents, gives the bird a masked appearance. Long and slender with a deeply forked, split tail, females are slightly duller in color and have a petite tail. To spot one, choose open areas and suitable nesting sites such as buildings, bridges, and other manmade structures. Always living near water, Barn Swallows avoid the

dense forest and very dry areas, opting instead to forage active agricultural areas, suburbs, and areas near highways. A m a z i n g l y, t h e B a r n Swallow’s odometer amasses approximately 14,000 miles a year. It winters in South America but migrates northward to breed over most of North America. Whether you’ve heard its cheerful warble of a “witt-witt” or boisterous “splee-plink,” these feisty little birds are vital to the farm. Flying low, they search for insects over fields or water and can be seen gathering muck for nests from mud puddles. They feast on flying insects, berries, seeds, and dead insects on the ground. Barn Swallows nest near each other, but do not form dense colonies. Usually monogamous during breeding, Barn Swallows occasionally practice polygamy. These “helpers” build, incubate, and safeguard the nest (four to five eggs) for 12 to 17 days. The young depart 20 to 21 days after hatching. Often re-used, cone shaped nests cling to ledges. Humans often consider these nests an unsightly nuisance; however, the nests help to serve as an indicator of the population. While today we can’t imagine killing a swallow for its iridescent cobalt feathers, in days gone by they adorned flamboyant hats and showy Victorian wall art and greeting cards. This bird desecration led to the founding of the Audubon Society, whose mission is to Pine Siskin conserve and restore natural ecosystems with the primary objective of biological diversity. The Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918 and Endangered Species Act of 1973 dictated that without an appropriate license, it is illegal to possess even a single feather of any protected bird, dead or alive. The society’s prominent role in legislation protects Addison Burnett is “for the birds!” endangered species and

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Barn Swallow

enables mankind to take pleasure in the Barn Swallow forever. Very rare for Western Pennsylvania is the seed specialist Pine Siskin (Carduelis pinus). The Siskin’s winter visit to the United States occurs mainly in years when the seed crop has failed in the boreal forests. The taiga or boreal forest exists as a nearly continuous belt of coniferous trees across North America and Eurasia. Large flocks may appear as far south as Florida. During the relentless winter of 2010, these acrobats were seen dangling upside down plucking pinecone seeds from the farmstead pines. With short, conical beaks, petite forked tails, and bright wing markings, the Sinskin’s primary foods are seeds of hemlocks, alders, birches, and cedars. Flocks made up of hundreds of birds are drawn to USC’s Washington Road. Wonder why? Like northern finches, they covet salt and hence salted thoroughfares. To identify the Pine Siskin in flight, look for the distinctive air travel pattern where the birds alternately bunch up and then disperse in undulating flight. The palatial pines surrounding the Gilfillan homestead are the perfect environment for sighting the Siskin. With the Township’s wooded areas, open forests, running water, and berry source, Upper St. Clair is a preferred territory for the Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum). Their environment of choice is well-spaced trees, golf courses, and cemeteries where these birds drink and bathe from shallow creeks, fountains, and birdbaths. During courtship, the male and female will snuggle, rub their beaks together affectionately, and then pass food objects, such as flower petals or insects back and forth. Dessert includes berries, sugary fruit, and especially the small cones of the Eastern Red Cedar Juniper, their namesake. When the end of a branch holds a supply of berries that only one bird at a

time can reach, members of a flock may line up along the branch and pass berries beak-to-beak down the line so that each bird gets a chance to eat. The Cedar Waxwing’s most prominent feature is its small cluster of bright red wing feathers and a tail of yellow or orange depending on its berry diet. This bird flies strong and direct at 25 miles an hour, often 2000 feet above ground, and can be heard with pitched whistles and buzzy trills which sound like “see” or “sree.” To attract these confident birds in winter, a landscape filled with berry bushes and fruit or berry bearing trees is paramount. Provide plenty of water from bird baths or fountains for ultimate success. Speaking of birdbaths, as early as the 1840s, a clever European retailer of caskets, Pulham and Sons, also specialized in rockery. Due to high consumer demand, stylish fountains and garden glamour such as the birdbath were mass-produced and became household chic. However, whether natural or placed by man, water is key to the fitness of our fine feathered friends. Natural rock depressions, hollows, and edges of shallow streams are nature’s innate baths. Today, traditional backyard water features sustain the suburban bird populace. A concrete vessel is just right for bathing, quenching thirst, and cooling down, but any clean shallow container will suffice. The use of a wall or tree stump, rather than the precarious pedestal, allows the basin to blend into nature’s ecosystem. Concerned about winter months? In 2011, solar heaters are the latest technology. Available as well are perches, spray misters, and electric heaters. If your birdbath is elaborate enough to have multiple levels, cascading water from level to level is attractive to birds and especially relaxing for humans. Birders understand that provision of a water source is imperative. My concrete bowl sits on a wall just outside my kitchen window. Every few days I refresh the bath with a vigorous mild detergent scrub and then add fresh, sometimes purified, water. A dollop or two of common household bleach keeps the water crystal clear. Is the bleach harmful to the birds? Absolutely

not! In fact, it aids in the control of external mites and internal parasites. Aside from gardening, bird watching is one of the fastest growing activities in America, as the two go hand in hand. Brilliant coloration along with enchanting songs and lovely melodies brighten even the dreariest of days. Birds of color at Gilfillan homestead include the Yellow Warbler, Red-winged Blackbird, Goldfinch, Bluebird, Ruby Throated Hummingbird, Purple Martin, and Redtailed Hawk. The courting behavior may include an exotic dance, like that of the Killdeer, who pretends to have a broken wing to lure predators away from its nest. The Northern Mockingbird is best known for imitating not only the sounds of other birds and animals, but also mechanical noises, including car alarms. The Eastern Screech Owl doesn’t screech at all. The male’s most common call is a mellow, muted trill, lasting for two to three seconds and with about 35 notes repeated at various intervals. So much to learn! So much fun! Want to increase outdoor family exercise? Link an exhilarating trail walk with bird watching. Whether in early morning or at sunset, appreciate the fresh air, inspirational scenery, and, most of all, the natural world! During Community Day this year, participate in the farm’s exciting activities, noon to 3 p.m., and explore the trail around Gilfillan and its front garden. For the kiddos, a bluebird craft at the side porch highlights the importance of this fine feathered friend. n

Female Bluebird

Did you know? • Nearly 60% of the 305 species of birds found in North America have shifted their ranges northward by an average of 35 miles. So now, more than ever, the Gilfillan Homestead’s cold weather habitat is “for the birds!” • What’s that bird saying? Dominance, alarm, and love are the three basic bird calls. The Backyard Bird Lover’s Ultimate How-to Guide by author Sally Roth assures recreational bird lovers the ability to discern birdcalls—no human guide required. All you have to do is listen! Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Traveling with TODAY

Group Benefits Commercial Insurance

Jutting into the blue Mediterranean Sea between Nice, France, and the Principality of Monaco, the recent travel agenda of Mary and Gerry Raupp included Saint Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a beautiful sea-side village. At the end of the 19 th century, Cap Ferrat consisted of wild, uncultivated countryside used for fox hunting. In the summer months, shepherds from the high country brought their flocks to graze amongst the olive trees. There were no roads, only a few paths and isolated dwellings.

Individual Financial Planning

Traveling to Bucknell University to see their daughter, Betsy, compete in the PIAA high school swimming competition this past March was an exciting experience. But, to pass the time waiting for tickets, Dan and Beth Erlanger caught up on community news found in the latest issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Families from surrounding school districts, including parents from North Allegheny, were interested to know w h a t kept the Erlanger’s attention. n

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Today, tourism is Saint Jean-Cap-Ferrat’s mainstay, and dictating to discriminating palates is paramount. Cuisine features scrumptious fresh seafood such as escalope de mérou au citron (escalope of sea bass in lime), salmon tournedos with truffles, cod and vegetables in garlic sauce, and skate with capers. After relishing discriminating delights, visit the Ephrussi de Rothschild (or Villa Ile de France), mansion of the Baroness Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. This museum (buildings and furnishings) boasts an elaborate art collection, while the villa grounds showcase exotic gardens designed in the styles of French traditional, Florentine, Spanish, Lapidary, Japanese, and Provencal (French country). Feeling whimsical? Continue on to the “must see” Musée du Coquillage (sea shell museum) which boasts over 1500 varieties of shells. While Mary and Gerry chose an autumn tour (slightly cooler weather), with so much to do and so much to see, anytime is a great time to visit Saint JeanCap-Ferrat, France, with your copy of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY in hand!

www.hendersonbrothers.com 22

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is proud to travel with you, too! Read the following criteria to find out how. • Clear, close-up photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Digital photo or hard copy 35 accepted. ‣‣ For digital, attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. ‣‣ For 35 mm, attach post-it to back of hard copy photo, listing the required information (see below). • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location. • List objective of visit—leisure, volunteer, career, etc. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Deliver one 35 mm photo with details to the USC Township receptionist in an envelope marked “USC TODAY,” or • Email one digital photo with details to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published.

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Technology on Hand

St. Clair Hospital Uses New Technology for Patient Check-In St. Clair Hospital is not only on the forefront

regionally, but nationally, with the adoption of Palm Vein scanning, a new patient authenticating program that will forever make patient identification more accurate, safe, and easy. A more precise identification methodology than fingerprint matching, palm vein ID authentication uses an infrared sensor to read the unique characteristics of an individual’s veins in his or her palm. In less than one minute, the scan creates a “vein map” and assigns a unique number to the vein pattern. This number is then permanently linked to the patient’s medical record number in the scanning system. On subsequent visits, a patient need only have his or her palm rescanned at newly installed self check-in kiosks to establish a positive identification. Check-in becomes faster and the need to fill out paperwork and wait for staff to enter the information into a computer will be greatly reduced, if not eliminated. Palm Vein scanning also eliminates the need for people to produce identification or verbally relay confidential information like a Social Security number. In an emergency, the scan can identify a patient, even if he or she is unconscious. In addition to the Palm Vein scanning, the self check-in kiosks will provide additional new options to authenticate. The kiosks are also equipped with the technology to check in patients using a driver’s license or credit card that bear a magnetic strip. To use

this option, patients simply swipe their cards and answer a few questions to ensure the correct records are being accessed for easy check-in. A third method to identify a specific record, is to use the kiosk to answer a series of identification questions specific to respective patients. A concierge will be present to assist patients through the authenticating and check-in process. “The goal is to make the patient check-in experience as pleasant and efficient as possible,” said John DeZulovich, director of Patient Financial Services. “Whether a patient chooses Palm Vein scanning or opts to use an ID card, the new authenticating options are convenient, accurate, and very safe.” Self check-in kiosks are currently available at the St. Clair MRI Center on Broughton Road and at the Village Square Outpatient Center, both located in Bethel Park. Additional kiosks will be installed in areas of the main hospital throughout the summer. n

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pursuing the Pileated Woodpecker at Boyce Mayview Park Nancy Chase

When I began bird watching several years ago, I spied through my binoculars a close-up view of the pileated woodpecker. What a find! With its shocking bright red crest, I knew Native Americans had mimicked this bird in their own plumed headdresses and maybe even mimicked the pileated’s undulated dip and lift flight in their ceremonial dances. You too, can get a glimpse of the pilieated woodpecker, and with patience and a little luck, you’ll see one or two a year as I have for several years. One early spring something strange happened. I saw this shy, skillfully evasive bird from my kitchen window. In the bare branches of my neighbor’s large leafless tree, I spied its two-tone striped head, its bright crest, and its large body, the size of a crow. It must have been on its way to a more remote location. My second sighting that same season turned out to be even a more curious one. Walking along the Queen Maple Trail in Boyce Mayview Park, I heard a ringing tone. What was it? I realized it was a phone. Such a dichotomy to see someone on their cell phone while walking on a nature trail, and this time I was the guilty one. As I reached into my pocket to turn off my phone, I heard a fluttering, and directly in front of me on a tree trunk landed a pileated woodpecker. It turned its head with each ring and I believed that it flew into my sight deliberately, as if listening to a mating call it did not recognize. Recently I read that I was partially right about my speculation. 24

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In the newly purchased USC library book “The Bumper Book of Nature,” author Stephen Moss advises taking a stick and beating the bird’s rhythm on a tree trunk to attract this quick, elusive creature. He said that with any luck the bird will stop its own drumming and come to investigate, thus giving you a glimpse. I don’t really agree with this human invasion into the bird’s territory, but as I thought further about it, I realized that this is exactly what happened when my phone rang. As Moss states, “the bird investigates because it thinks a rival male is taking over its territory.” That day, I enjoyed a rare, but quick, view. I stared at this bird for only an instant and then it was gone. Go out and see if you can spot this large woodpecker. You will not be disappointed. Look for huge rectangular holes in the highest of our trees. They drill these holes searching for ants and insects. Listen for the drumming that echoes in the wood. Locate a flash of red moving among the trees. It just may be your day to see one! Some sources say that the pileated woodpecker is vulnerable to habitat loss. But, as long as we have majestic national parks, state parks, and great local parks, like Boyce Mayview, I think the pileated woodpecker will continue to thrive among the giant trees. n

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Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Onstage Mishaps and Backstage Mischief

Sunny Disney Fitchett, Artistic Director, Little Lake Theatre Company moment in the first act, push up on the sofa cushblessing and, occasionally, a hilarious curse. Did you hear the one about the Back to that pickle story… . The production ions from below so it appeared there was a “spirit” Kosher pickle and how it ended up in the lap of a woman seated in the front row? Or how about the was Neil Simon’s comedy, The Odd Couple. The invading the room. One of the performances haptime a skunk waddled through an open door and scene: Four guys sitting around a card table, pened to fall on the Fourth of July, and in those cornered an actor backstage so he couldn’t make playing poker. In the middle of the table, a tray days, the fireworks were set off from a field very his curtain call entrance? Or the story about how of cold cuts, including a Kosher pickle. One of near the theater. It was a hot night, before the Mr. McFeely was trapped under an onstage sofa? the card players reaches for the pickle with his theater was air-conditioned as it is today, so for Over the years, these memories have initiated fork. Instead of piercing the pickle, the actor comfort, the doors were kept open. The booming fireworks were so loud that many a lively conversation about Little Lake The- hits it at just the right angle to send it flying into atre backstage lore. All true stories with very little the air, arcing high over the wall that defines the actors couldn’t be heard above the celebraneed for dramatic embellishment. Whenever a the perimeter of the stage, and into the lap of a tion. Will Disney, the Lake’s legendary founding group of actors get together, the conversation woman sitting in the front row. The punch line director, interrupted the performance and invited inevitably rolls around to onstage mishaps and of the story: She picks up the pickle, and takes a the audience to join him outside to watch. David backstage mischief. If only walls could talk, Little great, huge bite out of it! The story goes that even Newell was trapped, supine, beneath the heavy Lake Theatre, currently beginning its 63rd season, though this prompted a roar of laughter from the sofa. He couldn’t move without revealing himself would have plenty of stories to share. audience, the actors remained composed and “in and spoiling the upcoming illusion, and as they An actor can find himself in unexpected pre- character,” except for the poker player with the say, “The show must go on!” Ask any student who has ever participated dicaments on the Lake’s unique stage. The theatre cigar in his mouth. This fellow never smiled, but has in-the-round staging—a rectangle of sorts in some members of the audience were close enough in a high school play or musical and there will the center of the room with three levels of seating to observe what the other actors at the card table always be a giggle when the story of a backstage surrounding it on all four sides. The front row of saw—a cigar wavering like a seesaw between his or onstage mishap is recounted. There is no experience as adrenaline provoking or that seems to seats is within three feet of the onstage action, and tightened lips. How does Mr. McFeely figure into Little Lake require the focus and composure as being caught no seat is further away than 20 feet. This setting makes for an intimate, engaging connection be- stage lore? David Newell, the actor who went on in the middle of a mid-performance unexpected tween actor and audience. This connection to the to play the beloved “Speedy Delivery” postman turn of events. Live theater has a beautifully playmaking and storytelling is, in fact, one reason on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, started his immediate, in-the-moment-at-the-edge-of-yourparents have found “the Lake” to be one of best career as a teenager at Little Lake Theatre. As a seat-anything-can-happen energy for both the places to introduce their children to live theater. props assistant for a production of Blithe Spirit, actors and the audience. n That’s the good news. From an actor’s viewpoint, it was David’s job to enter during a blackout See ad on page 7. having the audience this close is, indeed, a and hide beneath a sofa and, at the appropriate 26

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SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE Hang in there! Summer Camp is almost here.

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Summer—a Time to Grow Dancers Linda Spencer, Owner, The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts Thinking back upon past summer vacations, how many times do you recall hearing the words “I’m bored” uttered from the mouths of your kids? If your answer includes eye-rolling, a definitive head nod, and a number that you need two hands on which to count, there’s a solution for you! Enroll your child in a summer dance class. During the summer months, a number of dance studios offer classes in abbreviated sessions to accommodate family vacations and other summer activities. Summer is a fantastic time to introduce new students to dance as the stresses of school and homework are eliminated. Dancers can concentrate on exploring their creativity and gaining a greater appreciation for the arts. At The Thomas Studio, pre-school dancers starting at twoyears-old will enjoy dance camps designed around a fun theme

that introduce them to the basics of ballet, tap, and gymnastics. Elementary-aged students will love the camps that allow them to explore hip hop, jazz, gymnastics, ballet, and tap. Busy teenagers may not want, or have time, to commit to a summer-long class. For that reason, The Thomas Studio offers a class-card system that provides for complete flexibility. Dancers purchase the desired number of classes, and then come to class whenever their schedule allows. Classes offered for the teen workshop include hip hop, jazz, lyrical, modern, ballet, tap, pointe, and gymnastics. Summer is an ideal time for teens to brush up on their dance and gymnastics skills for upcoming cheerleading or dance auditions. Dance is a fun summer activity that you should work into your child’s schedule. Let her give it a try! n See ad on this page. Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE UPPER ST. CLAIR ROLLER HOCKEY Summer Developmental Program May 4 - July 6 Wednesday Evenings Interscholastic League begins August 17th Grades 2 thru 10

Free Open Practice and Registration May 25, 6:00-7:00PM Bridgeville Roller Plex (Bring inline skates, hockey stick and helmet.)

Visit our booth on Community Day May 21st Take your shot at the goalie! Come see what all the fun is about!!! Contact: Gary Paul 412-848-8427 gpaul@paperproducts-pgh.com For more information: uscrollerhockey.com or visit us on Facebook

Building Summer Memories

Jennifer Roberts, Administrative Director, Extended Day Services Summer is almost here. So what are the big plans? If you’re like most families, you may have plans for a one-week vacation, but after that, you’re at a loss. Why not take a shotgun approach? Make a list of lots of different activities that would be fun for different members of the family throughout the summer months. Activities such as participating in the summer reading program at the USC Township Library for prizes, taking a day trip to a local park for a family picnic, or tackling a large family project like cleaning out the attic (You never know what treasures you’ll find!). Alternatively, you could decide as a family to volunteer some time on the weekends toward a charity such as a soup kitchen, an elder-care home, or Habitat for Humanity in Washington County. Even younger kids can contribute in many ways to most charitable organizations. In addition, children can be encouraged to create their own project aimed at helping children their own age. For example, children can collect gently-used toys to donate to a children’s hospital play room. This way, children gain a real sense of accomplishment, not to mention a sense of appreciation for what they have themselves. Older kids can be challenged to learn a new technology skill, like how to sell items on eBay or volunteer at an area organization in which they are interested, such as an animal shelter, the aviary, or a museum. Since children tend to be drawn to technology, why not have them use their computers to learn a skill that could accomplish dual purposes— earn extra money and rid your house of the extra stuff you’ve been meaning to clean out. It’s amazing how motivated children can become when you inform them that they are included on the sale’s proceeds. This activity even works in math, an extra bonus! In addition, getting your older child interested in volunteering time to an organization in 28

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which they have an interest allows them to see first-hand what it means to “work” and helps them to gain exposure and an appreciation for a variety of different experiences in the real world. They might even begin to appreciate the chores that mom and dad do on a daily basis. Well, we can dream, can’t we? You want to keep up your children’s academic skills, but you are struggling with how to make it fun. While I can’t guarantee you’ll go all the way to “fun,” here are some ideas to make it less painful. First, a quick easy way to improve vocabulary with any age child is to get a word-a-day calendar. You can make it fun by taking turns using the word in silly sentences throughout the day. To improve math skills, a quick, painless math activity is practicing math facts—addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division (depending on the age of the child) —throughout the day while in the car, at the pool, or at any location when you have some down time. Doing academics while accomplishing other activities makes it less of a chore and more of a way to pass the time. Last, but not least, if you’re looking for an unusual family trip close to home, try Adventure Creek Challenge Courses in St. Clairsville, Ohio. Adventure Creek has a variety of challenge courses for all ages, including a variety of ropes and zipline adventures. The great thing about these family adventures is that they build trust and family unity, while you enjoy the beauty of nature. St. Clairsville is a short one-hour drive from Pittsburgh, so it is well-suited for a day trip without the need for any overnight expenses. The most important thing, though, is to enjoy your family as a family, building memories that last forever! n See ad on this page.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Commissioners Robert W. Orchowski

President, Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2011*

Glenn R. Dandoy

Vice President, At-Large Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-973-9260 2011*

Preston W. Shimer Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2011*

Mark R. Hamilton Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-478-2812 2013*

Mark D. Christie Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2013*

Russell R. Del Re Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-287-9076 2011*

Daniel R. Paoly At-Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2013*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Meet Gary Schafer Continuing the Park and Forestry Management program at the Upper St. Clair Pubic Works Department, Gary Schafer was hired in January 2011 as the Parks and Forestry administrator. A 2000 graduate from The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Gary earned a bachelor of science degree in landscape contracting. Gary had an appreciation of landscape design and maintenance at an early age, mowing lawns with his dad and brother. Through college, Gary worked at PSU for the PennDOT-funded Roadside Vegetation Management project, which targeted the research of invasive plant control. Gary recalls his work experience at PSU. “The PennDOT research provided me with valuable resources to help target and control the invasive plants in our communities,” he said. After college, Gary was employed as a land planner for an engineering, planning, and surveying firm in the Northern Virginia/DC Metro Gary Schafer area. As a land planner, Gary worked with many groups, from the local government staff to environmental committees and consultants designing sustainable and environmentally sensitive developments. In 2008, Gary and his wife moved back to the Pittsburgh area to work for a local landscape maintenance contractor. Commercial landscape maintenance helped give him the practical knowledge of maintaining the landscape features in a sensible fashion within a customer’s budget. When asked about the challenges at USC, his response was to continue the ongoing efforts of providing safe park facilities and to continue the development of our park lands. “The Township has many beautiful parks and natural resources. Now it is time to continue with a maintenance program of these areas to keep USC as one of the most intriguing places to live and work in Pittsburgh,” he said. Gary and his wife, Jennifer, live in Jefferson Hills, along with their two-and-a halfyear old son, Cole. Gary and Jennifer are expecting the arrival of their second child this June. “It is so exciting to be a father, and I am looking forward to taking my family on some of the walking trails at Boyce Mayview Park.” In Gary’s free time, he very much enjoys yard work and gardening. “There is nothing better than a homegrown fresh slice of tomato and a hot pepper on a sandwich!” he remarked. n 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.

2011 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 at the C&RC 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 Service Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.

Visit the Township’s website: www.twpusc.org Summer 2011

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners Regular Meetings January 3, 2011

Approximately 22 people attended.

Proclamations and Recognitions • Commissioner Paoly presented a Proclamation to Stephen Crowe of Boy Scout Troop #228 recognizing his attainment of Eagle Scout rank. Stephen explained that he expended 232 hours for his Eagle Scout project which included researching, acquiring, and replacing eight grave markers for two veterans of the War of 1812 as well as for six veterans of the Civil War. The Board • Closed public hearing re. PLC10-0009–The Shops on Washington, 1630 Washington Road, Conditional Use Approval. • Adopted Bill No. 1-11 granting Conditional Use Approval to PLC10-0009, The Shops on Washington, for a change in use from retail (Pier One Imports) to a food store (Trader Joe’s), on property located at 1630 Washington Road. • Adopted Amendment to Bill No. 1-11granting Conditional Use Approval to PLC10-0009, The Shops on Washington, for a change in use from retail to a food store, on property located at 1630 Washington Road with the following amendments: Section 2, 2.2. from Code Section 130.15.3.2.1.4. to permit deliveries between the hours of 6 a.m. to “10 p.m.”; Section 6, that delivery vehicles do not idle their engines while unloading and “to the extent permitted by applicable law”, do not use backup warning devices; and, Section 8, that within six (6) months of the date of issuance of an occupancy permit, the applicant must submit to the Township written results of a follow up study “conducted both in the morning and evening hours” verifying that the wall reduced the noise levels and that they are in compliance with the Township Code “and the Noise Control Report whichever is stricter and take appropriate steps to achieve compliance.” • Adopted Bill No. 2-11 to amend Chapter 57 of the Code of the Township, Section §57.10. “Streets and Highways”; Section §57.11. “Subdivision and Land Development”; Section §57.14. “Zoning”; Section §57.15. “Recreational Programs”; §57.16. “Township Meeting Rooms and Recreation Facilities”; Section §57.17. “Miscellaneous items”; Section §57.18. “Library Fees and Fines”; and Section §57.21. “Municipal Leaf Waste.”

February 7, 2011

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners was canceled.

Eagle Scout Stephen Crowe and Commissioner Dan Paoly Reappointments to Boards and Commissions • Approved the following appointments to the Youth Steering Committee: Stacy Sebastian, professional representative (two-year term); Marjri Gupta, member (four-year term). • Approved the following reappointments to various Boards and Commissions, with terms expiring, as follows: Board/Commission Name Terms Expire December 31, 2013: Building and Fire Code Appeals and Advisory Board........................... Michael McDonnell Building and Fire Code Appeals and Advisory Board.................................... James Sampey Civil Service Board........................................ P. J. Murray, III Library Board.............................................Robert Ontolchik Parks and Recreation Board............................Kelly Bakayza Parks and Recreation Board.......................... Roger Hartung Parks and Recreation Board...................... Timothy Stouden Zoning Hearing Board............................... Dwight Ferguson Terms Expire December 31, 2014: Planning Commission............................... Robert Stevenson Planning Commission....................................... David Wade

Contributors to the Township’s recycling efforts, including the E-cycling program, are resident Jerry Grunnagle (left) and John Despines (center). Commissioner Preston Shimer (right) presented an award from the Professional Recyclers of Pennsylvania to both men at the December 6, 2010, Commissioners’ meeting.

Senior Citizens of USC Were you born in 1956 or before? Are you retired? If you’ve answered “yes” to both questions, then you are eligible to join the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair. This organization, chartered by the Township commissioners in 1975, is a recreational program for senior residents. The group meets every Wednesday, usually in the Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road, and occasionally somewhere else for an adventure. The Recreation Building opens at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays, so bring your bridge group or your craft work. Meet new friends, or see neighbors and acquaintances whom you haven’t run into for a while. Either way, enjoy the company of others, and have a delicious lunch! A short business meeting begins at 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch prepared by volunteers from the group, and then a

program. Programs range from educational to entertaining. Upcoming programs include the National Senior Fit Day hike and picnic, WWII cartoonist Bill Maudlin, and Civics for Grown-Ups. Once you’ve reached age 62—born in 1948 or before—you can join the group even if you’re still working. But if you work

on Wednesdays, you’ll miss the programs! Questions? Contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator for the Township, at 412-221-1099, extension 603, or email at kerman@twpusc.org, or stop by the Recreation Department office at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park. n

Resources for Seniors

Silver Card

Offered by USC Township to residents age 62 and retired or age 65 with no restrictions. Card admits holder to Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, and other activities free of charge. Applications at Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park.

Gold Card

Offered by USC School District to residents age 62 and older. Card admits holder to School District drama and musical performances, athletic events, and other events free of charge. Applications at School District reception desk at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road. Summer 2011

ACCESS 65 PLUS is a sharedride transportation service program for senior citizens age 65 and older. Contact Amy Kerman, Upper St. Clair Township older adult coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603, for information about this program and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen identification card for the Port Authority Transit (PAT) system.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Sanitary Sewer Improvements Dave Kutschbach, Township Superindent of Projects

This new year continues to bring challenges, constant evaluation, and improvements to our sanitary sewer system. The Township of Upper St. Clair entered into an Administrative Consent Order (ACO) with Allegheny County Health Department in March 2004. All tasks required under Phase I of the Order were completed on time and within budget. The goal of Phase I was to evaluate the entire wastewater collection system and to repair any major structural deficiencies discovered. The evaluation process included the physical inspection of 4181 manholes, closed circuit televising (CCTV) of 823,680 feet of sanitary sewer line and geographical (GIS) mapping of the system. The Township was required to dye test every structure and draft a point-of-sale dye test ordinance. The Township engineer completed a hydraulic design capacity evaluation of the system. Lastly, an Operation and Maintenance (O&M) program plan was drafted for use in Phase II of the ACO. Welcome to 2011 and the Township’s O&M program. The O&M program of Phase II is very similar to the evaluation of Phase I. The To w n s h i p i s required to re-inspect its sanitary sewer lines. This internal video inspection (CCTV) is being completed by the Township’s contractor, Robinson Pipe Cleaning Company. For video inspection purposes, the Township was divided into five zones. Starting in the northern end of the Township and working south, each zone contains 165,000 feet of sanitary sewer. As the video inspection of each zone is completed, Robinson Pipe moves to the next zone. The entire evaluation will be completed within five years. Following along behind Robinson Pipe is the Township’s rehabilitation contractor, State Pipe Services. While the emphasis in Phase I was on major structural repairs, Phase II concentrates more on maintenance issues. In addition to any structural deficiencies discovered, Phase II attacks operation and maintenance issues such as infiltration, roots, sags, off-set joints, and breakin taps. Break-in taps are connections into the public sewer line without using the provided factory wye connection and instead, as the term implies, a hole is broken into the public sewer line and the private lateral is inserted at that point.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Upper St. Clair strives to be a leader in the repair and rehabilitation of its wastewater collection system. For years, open cut was the only choice for repair. Excavation was started at one manhole and continued on to the next. The end result was a new line segment between manholes. Although very efficient pipe-wise, this method was weather dependent and usually left enormous restoration and clean-up nightmares. As technologies were invented and improved, the Township has sought to incorporate these inovations into its rehabilitation program. Currently, pipe bursting is the Township’s preferred method for repair when applicable. Pipe bursting is an internal sewer line repair method. High density polyethylene pipe (HDPE) is fused together onsite to the correct length to reach manhole to manhole. A rope is floated down the sewer line attached to a cable. The cable is part of a winch, which sits over a manhole. This cable is connected to a head, which is then attached to the pipe. An access pit is dug by the manhole at the opposite end of the line segment. Since the head is slightly larger than the inside diameter of the existing sewer pipe, the existing line is broken as the HDPE pipe is pulled and “bursts” through to the next manhole. After the new line is in place, an excavation is made at each house lateral to reconnect the lateral back into the new public sewer. Most segments usually take three days to complete from start to finish, and restoration is kept to a minimum. Pipe bursting is not seasonal and allows State Pipe to work this project year-round. Mid-March saw work being done in the Mitchell, Royanna, and Keifer Drives area, followed by work along Hycroft and Blairmont, and later in Brookside Farms. In addition to pipe bursting, the Township uses spot liners when applicable. Spot liners are used when the line segment is in good condition except for a small hole in the pipe. A liner is pulled through the sewer to the defect, then cured in place. Sanitary sewer manholes found to be buried during Phase I inspection are being located and raised to grade. Instead of using four and six inch concrete riser rings to raise the manhole cover to grade, the Township is using HDPE risers, especially in off-street locations. These risers are strong, provide a watertight seal, and are light weight. Another innovation the Township will be using is an HDPE manhole frame and cover. These frames and covers are approved for use in paving. Again, they are strong, provide a watertight seal, and are light weight. After all manholes are raised to grade and inspected, manhole rehabilitation will begin as part of the O&M program. Manholes will be repaired to improve their structural integrity and seal out any infiltration. Public Works is working hard on your behalf. We are completing the tasks required under the O&M phase of the ACO, incorporating the latest technologies and being financially responsible in the use of tax dollars to improve your sanitary sewer infrastructure. n

It’s Street Resurfacing Season Dan Flatz, Township Superintendent of Public Improvments Summer is arriving soon. After many months of winter, the change to warmer weather makes one think of outdoor activities and the anticipation of summer vacations. Employees of the Township’s Public Works Department share many of these same thoughts, but the spring and summer also signify to them the beginning of the construction and maintenance season for USC’s outside facilities and streets. As you are aware from driving on the Township’s streets this winter, it has been an unusually severe year for pavement heaving. Heaving is a result of the ground freezing below the asphalt paving. The areas that are saturated below the pavement show the greatest amount of deflection. There is not much remedy for this situation during the “frozen” months. Most of the streets return to their original profile without significant damage. The streets that suffer the greatest amount of heaving are monitored and re-evaluated after the winter season. The streets that do sustain permanent damage are scheduled either for repairs to the isolated and specific areas or the entire street as being included in the annual streets resurfacing program for more extensive repairs. Bids for the 2011 annual streets resurfacing program were received on February 8. Tentatively, the streets to be included are:

• Franklin Drive (Hays Road to the Township line) • Hidden Timber Drive (Morrow Road to Jenkins Drive) • Marwood Drive (Country Club Drive to cul de sac-both sides) • Oaklawn Drive (Edgewood Drive to terminus) • Old Washington Road (cloverleaf to Washington Road) • Pleasantvue Circle (Marwood Drive to cul de sac) • Quigg Drive (Fort Couch Road to terminus) • Thousand Oaks Drive (Hays Road to cul de sac) • USCVFD substation parking lot (Morton Road) • Municipal tennis courts #1 and #2 (color coating)

Soft and yielding base areas are identified and repaired prior to the placement of the new asphalt. To minimize the inconvenience to the residents, the paving contractor has one week to place the first course of asphalt once the street has been milled and two more weeks to complete the placement of the final wearing course, driveway adjustments, and landscape restorations. Public Works has recently purchased asphalt maintenance equipment that allows the ability to repair larger isolated areas of deteriorated pavement effectively and efficiently. This ability to make repairs in-house results in a quicker response time and saves the cost of an outside contractor who has to move in large equipment for only a few hours of work. As part of the Township’s annual resurfacing program, cracksealing of the existing streets is also provided. Public Works employees seal from 50,000 to 100,000 feet of cracks annually. Cracksealing prevents stormwater from penetrating and softening the base beneath the pavement, creating an unstable condition. The instability of the base causes cracking, potholes, rutting, and frost heaving, all the while accelerating the deterioration of the asphalt matrix. Managing our local streets is based not only on judgment and experience, but also on a more formalized comprehensive pavement management system. This pavement management system involves the inventory of all streets, collecting data and assessing several road characteristics. Each street is assigned a pavement rating number based on its current condition. This pavement rating is used to prioritize the list of streets most needing repair and select a cost effective repair for each one. The goal at Public Works is to provide a comfortable, safe, and economical road surface. To help the Public Works Department in its goal attainment, report any pavement defects to 412-831-9000, extension 271. n

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Dr. Steven R. Crandall, DMD can restore the smile of your youth and correct virtually any dental problem. • Replace missing teeth • Relieve headaches • Replace old deteriorated fillings • Relieve jaw muscle and joint pain

• Repair abscessed teeth • Repair gum disease • Correct an unstable bite • Invisalign Provider • ZOOM Whitening

We process all insurance plans.

The work includes the replacement of storm inlets, underdrains, and the elimination of downspouts draining directly onto the street. The existing pavement is then milled to remove the aged asphalt and provide a level and stable base on which to pave.

70 Fort Couch Road, Upper St. Clair (Next to McDonalds, Adjacent to South Hills Village)

412-833-6166 w w w. s t eve n rc r a n d a l l d m d . c o m Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Electric vs. Electronic, Fluorescent vs. Incandescent

Ron Sarrick, USC Superintendent of Building Operations and Sustainability To everything, turn, turn, turn. This is a great song from the service factor. The bulb can be purchased in 28-watt or 32-watt mid-sixties by The Byrds, but it is also a meaningful expression and in different color rendering indicies, which allow the purthat reminds us that life is full of seasons and cycles of change. chaser several considerations for any particular application. This Although there are conditions that we would like to remain static, creates improved versatility in electronic fluorescent lighting. most are affected by time and pressures that move toward creating The departure from the four-foot T-12 core and coil lighting is something different. the mandate of the U.S. Department of Energy. The elimination in So it is with fluorescent lighting and the incandescent lamp. the production of the T-12 bulb caught the Township’s attention This is the time for a cycle of electric lighting to evolve. Enter in 2007 when the Township decided to start a project to replace or the electronic ballast and CFL, and part ways with a core and coil retrofit all of the T-12 lighting to T-8. There are over 600 fixtures ballast and incandescent lamps. operating nearly 900 bulbs throughout the Township buildings. The T-12, four-foot bulb, a workhorse in the lighting industry, That’s a lot of ballasts and bulbs to replace. More importantly, is slated to go to its final resting place, along with its core and there is a potential for substantial savings in energy consumption coil ballast. It was a fixture in most office buildings that created with the new lighting. the best form of lighting that money could buy. However, it is a This inspired the question: How are we going to replace all power glutton and is becoming extinct. The crux of the problem is of these bulbs and ballasts? At that moment, I was reminded of probably more with the components of the ballast, which created the absurd question: How do you eat an elephant? Answer: One a lot of heat and needed some of the power for its operation. bite at a time. The project, to retrofit all the fluorescent fixtures, Then there was the issue of the bulb’s color rendering. Early takes time. Today, the lighting in the Township building is about lighting was mostly “cool white”; later versions came with dif- 60% converted. ferent color rendering. As we reflect on the demise of this The other task is the incandescent-to-CFL transition. The technology, it will probably be said that it worked well in its day, incandescent lamp was the true workhorse of residential lightbut its time has come to an end. As of July 2012, the beginning ing, until just recently. During the last decade or so, energy of the end of the T-12 four-foot bulb is near. efficiency has been cutting away at the wattage on these lamps. Enter its next generation cousin the T-8, four-foot electronic The compact fluorescent lamp, or CFL, is the new energy-efficient version bulb and ballast. Fluorescent lighting has undergone a way to accommodate the need for lighting that trims power transformation. Like most things that have gone back to the draw- consumption. ing board, it is new and improved with the choice of electronic However, many folks are resisting the CFL, for a host of versions of the T-8 or T-5 lamp. The T-8 has been around a bit reasons. There are those who say that it takes too long to get longer. One could argue it is more proven perhaps and a bit less to full brightness. Others say it has mercury and is a danger to expensive, so that is our focus for this article. Consider the elec- our environment. And there are the people who say that it’s just tronic ballast, which also gives the option of low, normal or high not right for American manufacturing plants to close, and then

Just a Reminder!

Community Development

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.

• 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. the day before collection with removal before midnight the day of collection.

• 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. 34

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Summer 2011

• 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.

412-831-9000, ext. 501, www.twpusc.org

ship those jobs abroad. These are all valid statements to a degree. However, it is not our purpose to take up the argument here, but to acknowledge that these conditions exist for now. CFLs are a growing source of lighting for the home and office. The average CFL lamp saves in several ways. Comparatively speaking, a standard 75-watt incandescent lamp burns about 750 hours on average. It gets hot enough to deliver a burn. For those of you who have attempted changing a lit bulb, you know this by experience. The equivalent CFL bulb operates at 23 watts. It is said to operate for approximately eight to ten times longer, or 6000 to 8000 hours. The heat delivered by the bulb is noticeably less. And as stated previously, the difference in wattage equals savings. Also, with the increased life of a lamp, we realize the savings in fewer labor hours in a non-residential application. That is why the Townshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program for re-lamping included the change to

Homeownership and Property Maintenance Glenn Prokopovitch, Code Enforcement Officer Property maintenance relates to the upkeep of property. If you take a moment to reflect about your home, you will realize that in many instances the first thing family, friends, and the public see is the exterior of your home. Well-kept properties indicate that homeowners take pride in their homes and the grounds that surround it. The intent of property ordinances are to promote a safer and more aesthetically pleasing community while simultaneously maintaining or enhancing property values. Although each individual views the world with a different perspective and personal opinions vary greatly, each Township resident is expected to abide by set regulations, including mowing the lawn regularly, trimming trees and shrubs that project into the street or create sight obstructions, storing left over building materials or other similar items within a garage or shed, removing junk from the property, and maintaining doors, window frames, gutters, and other exterior components in good repair. The USC community is known for its beautifully maintained homes and landscaping, and proper maintenance creates a

CFL lighting. Many of the current fixtures needed nothing for adapting to CFL technology. Fixtures that required adaptation were evaluated for LED lighting as well, and whichever made the most sense for the application was chosen. I will also mention that the Watt Watchers Program of Allegheny Power had a position in this process. In as much as residential customers have access to the Allegheny Power programs for savings in many ways, the Township has also taken advantage of the Allegheny Power Watt Watchers program. The Township is attempting to create a facility that is energy efficient and friendly to its employees and residents. Lighting is a very important part of that equation. Good, energy efficient lighting can make the difference in a productive, sustainable environment as well as the realization of energy savings. This is a win-win situation for residents, employees, and those who use our facilities. n

NAVIGATE THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

Proper home maintenance promotes an aesthetically pleasing community for all to enjoy.

sense of satisfaction for many homeowners. However, homeowners with poor property maintenance practices subject themselves to the stress of a conflict involving a neighbor or Township enforcement procedures. To avoid a negative experience, try viewing your home from the perspective of others followed by a walk through of your yard. Assess your observation and decide, truthfully, if the view is one you would wish to have. If it is not, please commit to correcting the issue. As a result, you will feel better and contribute to keeping our community beautiful. n

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The Department of Community Development strives to be responsive to your questions and concerns. If you wish to report a potential violation by telephone, contact Community Development at 412-831-9000, or visit or write to Community Development, USC Township Municipal Building, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, USC, PA, 15241. Summer 2011

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Healthy Habits, Healthy Homes

Jessica Kester, Program Manager, The Outdoor Classroom Pure joy and contentment—that’s how I would describe the way I felt as a child during the summer back home in Blue Knob, Pennsylvania. Splashing in the pool, rolling down the hill, collecting tadpoles from the puddles on my Pap’s farm, and not coming inside until the sun went down (or for the occasional refueling snack). Looking back, I can’t place a finger on one single sunny day that I spent inside during summer break. I’m not sure I was even allowed to, and I thought this was how all children were spending their summers. I was a normal kid—getting dirty, skipping rocks, breathing clean mountain air. I later came to realize that I was one of the lucky ones. One of the last generations that wasn’t tethered to an electronic devise (not to say that I didn’t spend my fair share of hours with my Atari). My time outdoors on my own, exploring, experimenting, building forts, and climbing trees made me who I am today. It instilled in me a knowledge all my own of the environment that surrounded me. Now I have the opportunity to share that knowledge with others of all ages looking for that same glimmer of contentment and joy that I still feel each time I venture outdoors. This year at The Outdoor Classroom we’re focusing on how the environment can affect our health and how we can, in turn, affect the health of the environment—not just locally, but globally. In addition to The Outdoor Classroom’s normal programs that immerse people in nature, the staff is bringing in experts in the field of environmental health to help our communities understand what’s around us. The Outdoor Classroom will welcome Vickie and John Mahfood of The Healthy Roots Project (www.TheHealthyRootsProject.com) to discuss the quality of the air in our homes, the soil we walk on, and the water that surrounds us through a three-part “Environmental Health: Soil, Air, and Water” lecture series. The Mahfoods will present ways of determining the health of our home environments and simple ways that we can improve or prevent the contaminants found there. The lecture series will run Wednesdays June 8, July 13, and August 10, 6:30-7:30 p.m. The Outdoor Classroom is also using the combined knowledge of staff members Sara Homol and Sue Ralston (Penn State Master Gardener) to bring you “The Garden’s a Buzz! Enhancing Biodiversity and Attracting Pollinators to Your Garden.” Learn the importance of biodiversity and how to support pollinators in your garden. With the emergence of “colony collapse disorder” and

the death of countless honey bee hives, the bee population has taken a major hit. Learn easy ways to help pollinators rebound in your own backyard on Tuesday, May 10, 6:308 p.m. And of course we can’t forget the fun and excitement of being outdoors with the family, so be sure to join The Outdoor Classroom and the Upper St. Clair Department of Recreation and Leisure Services for the second annual Earth Extravaganza on Saturday, June 11, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Make a new memory for your family and help instill a love of nature that will last a lifetime. It’s never too early to be outside! Upcoming Programs • Saturday, May 14–Project Wild Aquatic presented by Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (Act 48) • Sunday, May 15–Talk n Walk: Spring Wild Edibles • Friday, June 3–Reptiles and Amphibians of Pennsylvania presented by April Claus of Interactive Environmental Programs (live animals!) • Saturday, June 4–Wild Edible Mushrooms presented by the Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club • Sunday, June 5–Boy Scout Environmental Science Merit Badge Workshop • Sunday, June 12–Talk n Walk: Amazing Insects • Thursday-Friday, June 23-24–Reptiles and Amphibians of Pennsylvania teacher workshop presented by Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (Act 48) • Sunday, July 17–Talk n Walk: Creek Ecology Upcoming Camps Summer camps are filling fast! Don’t be left out! • Jr. Naturalists: June 20-24 (ages 4-5) and June 27-July 1 (ages 5-6) • Bullfrogs & Pollywogs (ages 3-4 and their parents or caregivers),Wednesdays June 29, July 6, 13, 20, and 27 • Eco-Kids (ages 7-10) Monday-Friday, July 11-15 • Seasonal Science Series-18 (ages 8-12) Monday-Friday, July 25-29 n

For more information and events, visit www.TheOutdoorClassroomPA.org. 36

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Summer 2011

A Beautiful Weed

Highley

Sara Homol, Program Administrator, The Outdoor Classroom When we hear the word “weed” we may grumble and grovel, but many times this word may lead us to exquisite wildflowers. One of the most eye-catching of these weeds is Butterfly Milkweed. Butterfly Milkweed has many common names including Butterfly Weed and Orange Milkweed, but scientifically Butterfly Milkweed is known as Asclepias tuberosa. The common name Butterfly Milkweed comes from the plant’s relationship to butterflies. Butterfly Milkweed, which is in the milkweed family, is one of the host plants, or larval food sources, for caterpillars such as the queen and monarch. Caterpillars are very persnickety eaters and without these plants these caterpillars would not grow to become butterflies. Not only is this plant host to caterpillars, but it also attracts many adult butterflies due to its flower shape, bright color, and lovely nectar. Wildflower lovers are often astonished when they see this blossom while driving along quiet country roads or walking through meadows and farm fields. It is not a flower that one sees everyday, which is one of the reasons why a sighting is so special. Many New England states have watched populations of this plant drop drastically, and in some states Butterfly Milkweed is listed as an endangered species. Luckily, if you have a sunny spot in your garden, you can provide a lovely habitat for Butterfly Milkweed, all while bringing beneficial insects such as butterflies into your garden. This summer as you plan to spruce up your landscape, please keep our friend, Asclepias tuberosa, in mind. n

Dedicated Knowledgeable Accessible Dependable $100 Million Sales in 20 Years

Susan Highley ABR, CRS, SRES

412 833-3600 Cell-412 889-1214 URL:shighley.howardhanna.com

The Milkweed attracts a caterpillar.

The honey bee is drawn to this wildflower.

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

T Adult Department Adult Summer Reading: June 20–August 9 Summer reading is not just for kids at the USC Township Library! Join the library’s adult reading club Novel Destinations. It’s a great way to explore the wonderful world of reading, connect with other readers, and earn points for reading what you want to read at your own pace. Engage in armchair exploration of exotic locales around the world, listen to the newest audiobook, or attend specially-planned summer library programs, including Right Brain Destinations. Stop by the library any time after Monday, June 20, pick up your reading log book and summer program brochure, and start traveling! Don’t miss the Ice Cream Social Gala on Thursday, August 11 at 7 p.m. Enjoy ice cream treats, be entertained by members of the Pittsburgh Banjo Club, and win great travel-themed bags of prizes. Summer Reading: Novel Destinations and Summer Programs: Right Brain Destinations have something for everyone. You are guaranteed to have a great time! n Destinations Summer Programs Explore the creative side of your mind. • Creative Photography by John Craig, July 14 • Silk Painting workshop by Colleen Miles, July 16 • Polymer Clay Bead Demonstration by Denise Graham, July 21 • Water Colors–Flowers in Nature by South Arts Pittsburgh, July 28 • Poetry workshop by Richard St. John, August 4 Call the library for times and locations.

More eUSC— Electronic Media (and the Compatible Devices You Can Use!) eAudio, eBooks, eVideo More people are downloading eBooks and/or watching eVideos from the library than ever before! Getting started can be confusing with all of the different devices and formats available. Do you have a new e-toy device? Do you have questions such as: 38

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Adult Programs @ Your Library The year of programming around the theme of Harmony: mind, body, spirit is coming to a stunning end with a celebration of harmony, music, and life.

“Healing Sound Session” by Life in Balance A vibrational journey into deep meditative states; a concert like nothing you have experienced before When: Thursday, June 30, 7 p.m. Where: USC Township Library Meeting Room How: Call 412-835-5540 to register. The program, “Healing Sound Session,” by Life in Balance, will begin with a short explanation of the quartz crystal bowls and the Shakuhachi flutes. A brief meditation will be spoken to engage the left and right brain hemispheres. Then quartz crystal bowls and flute music will surround the listener with a resonant sonic tone. The bowls emit an ethereal and penetrating field of vibration acting as a carrier wave for the healing tones of flutes, keyboard, and Moog synthesizers. Your body will be a sympathetic resonator, in sync with the perfect harmonic patterns of this musical alchemy. Inner visions can arise, cellular healing will unfold, and deep meditation will open its mysteries. Come experience this powerful and deeply tranquil soundspace for yourself. A reception will follow the concert. n

What or Who is Life in Balance? Life in Balance is a national touring and recording duo committed to using sacred musical instruments, blended with current technology, to create a high-energy sonic environment. The husband and wife team, Ami and Steve Sciulli, formed in 1996. Using quartz crystal singing bowls and electronically enhanced world flutes Life in Balance has performed its sound healing sessions throughout the country and in many diverse places. Closer to home, the Carnegie Museum, Phipps Conservatory, the O’Reilly Theater, and the Andy Warhol Museum have hosted sessions. Life in Balance has also performed with author Deepak Chopra, and other musicians including Rusted Root, Dharma Bums, Krishna Das, and The Drepung Gomang Tibetan Monks. “Steve and Ami have been on a mission for years promoting the holistic healing arts of music. They are at the edge and in the center, knocking on the door to the perpendicular universe!”— Jim Brenholts, Tracks Across the Universe: Chronology of Ambient & Electronic Music. Visit www.lifeinbalancemusic.com to learn more. n Steve and Ami Sciulli perform.

This project was partially funded by an LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act) grant. • What software do I need? • How long can I keep the eBook on my reader? • How do I authorize my device? • What if I get a new device? The USC Township Library gets most of its e-materials from a company called Overdrive. To make it easier for users to get the answers they need about the devices they own, Overdrive has great online help called “My Help.” My Help provides information for getting started and assistance for a user’s specific computer or device. Summer 2011

When users click on the Overdrive My Help, a wizard launches and users are asked a simple question: “What do you want to do?” • Listen to an audiobook • Read an eBook • Watch a video • Listen to music If you want to “Read an eBook,” click on the eBook icon. If you want to “Listen to an audiobook,” click on the audiobook icon, and so on. The My Help wizard then asks another question: “What do you

T Adult Department Green is In (the Library)! Green gardens—good for your yard; a delight for the spirit Going green garden—gardening with a minimal impact on the environment— has many benefits. Do you know what exactly is involved in eco-friendly “green” gardening? Does it require more work and more money than ordinary gardening? Will you have to forgo planting annuals? Dig up your favorite plant? Watch helplessly as slugs and aphids feast on your vegetables? No! An eco-friendly garden is simple. The gardener works with nature instead of battling against it. Choosing native plants for your micro-climate, choosing the least harmful method of control against bugs or diseases and choosing to water wisely are all simple and effective ways to garden green. A variety of books at the library can provide more details. Here is a small selection of what is available in the gardening section. • The American meadow garden: creating a natural alternative to the traditional lawn, by John Greenlee; photography by Saxon Holt. Publisher Portland: Timber Press, 2009. 635.964 GRE • The conscientious gardener: cultivating a garden ethic, by Sarah Hayden Reichard; foreword by Peter Raven. Publisher Berkeley: University of California Press, c2011. 635.01 REI • Eco-yards: simple steps to earth-friendly landscapes, by Laureen Rama; with contributions by Caron Wenzel. Publisher Gabriola, B.C: New Society Pub., 2010. 635.048 RAM have?” Users then select the computer or device that they primarily use for library downloads, including Windows PC, Mac, Android, iPhone, iPad, NOOK, and Sony Reader to get device specific instructions. Reading eBooks and watching videos on your new devices, can be easy and fun. Click on the downloads button from the library homepage to gain access to this wonderful new world. As always, you can stop by the reference desk for personal assistance as well. n

• 100 easy-to-grow native plants: for American gardens in temperate zones, by Lorraine Johnson; photographs by Andrew Leyerle. Publisher New York: Firefly Books, c2009. 635.9 JOH • Starter vegetable gardens: 24 no-fail plans for small organic gardens, by Barbara Pleasant; photography by John Gruen. Publisher North Adams, MA: Storey Pub., c2010. 635.1 PLE • Talking dirt: the dirt diva’s down-to-earth guide to organic gardening, by Annie Spiegelman; illustrations by Maggie Agro. Publisher New York: Penguin Group, c2010. 635.9 SPI • Thoughtful gardening: practical gardening in harmony with nature, by Ed Ikin. Publisher London: National Trust, 2010. 635 IKI Green houses—good for the world; your private soul space There are those who believe that good design can save the world from itself. You’ve heard the words: eco-friendly; sustainable; recycled materials, energy star; water miser, LEED certified. But what can you do on a personal level, with the house you live in and the space you occupy? Is it practical to retrofit an existing structure? Can I really “get off the grid?” How can I change my basic purchasing decisions to make a difference? Again, a variety of library materials can provide details on ways you can make simple changes to a room to information on complete home renovations. Here is a small sample of what you can find at the library. Summer 2011

• DIY projects for the self-sufficient homeowner: 25 ways to build a self-reliant lifestyle, by Betsy Matheson. Publisher Minneapolis, Minn.: Creative Pub. International, c2011. • Eco house: practical ideas for a greener, healthier dwelling, by Sergi Costa Duran. Publisher Richmond Hill, Ont.: Firefly Books, 2010. • Green guide families: the complete reference for eco-friendly parents, by Catherine Zandonella. Publisher Washington, DC: National Geographic, c2010. 649.1 ZAN • The green home: a Sunset design guide, by Bridget Biscotti Bradley and the editors of Sunset books. Publisher Menlo Park, CA: Sunset Pub. Corp., c2010. 747 BRA • In the green kitchen: techniques to learn by heart, by Alice Waters; photographs by Hirsheimer & Hamilton. Publisher New York: Clarkson Potter/Publishers, 2010. 641.5636 WAT • Practical green remodeling: down-toearth solutions for everyday homes, by Barry Katz. Publisher Newtown, CT: Taunton Press, c2010. 690.837 KAT • Shift your habit: easy ways to save your money, simplify your life, and save the planet, by Elizabeth Rogers with Colleen Howell. Publisher New York: Three Rivers Press, c2010. 640.4 ROG • This green house: home improvements for the eco-smart, the thrifty, and the do-ityourselfer, by Joshua Piven; illustrations, by Owen Sherwood. Publisher New York: Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 2009. 640.4 PIV n

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

T Kids Department Summer Reads 2011—Teen Read Thinking of joining Teen Read 2011 but don’t know what to read? Check out some of these great titles (recommended by Colleen Miles, Youth Services Librarian at the USC Township Library)! Great Books for Girls, Grades 6-8 • The Red Blazer Girls: Ring of Rocamadour by Michael Beil. Solve the puzzles that make up the mystery of a found ring with Sophie, Margaret, Rebecca, and Leigh Ann, a.k.a. the Red Blazer Girls! • Shakespeare’s Secret by Elise Broach. An intriguing mystery begins when Hero, named after the Shakespearean character, finds a diamond in her new house. • Engraved in Stone by Alice Scovell Coleman. 2011 Library Summer On the eve of their arranged marriage, Reading Programs Princess Elizabeth and Prince Edward travel to find a stonecutter who will release them from their dreadful enchantment. Reading Together • Savvy by Ingrid Law. Would you have the Who: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and same reaction as Mibs Beaumont if you kindergarteners received a savvy (a unique magical power) When: June 20-August 5 for your 13th birthday? Where: Library’s Kids Department • Countdown by Deborah Wiles. It’s 1962 and Reading Together is the library’s early Fanny Chapman just wants some peace! literacy program designed to help young How can she get it when her family is a children acquire early reading skills with pain and the whole country is in fear over fun and easy parent-directed activities. the Cuban Missile Crisis?

Great Books for Girls, Grades 9-12 • What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell. Evie is suddenly caught in a complicated web of lies. As she begins to realize that almost everything she believed to be a truth was really a lie, Evie must choose between her loyalty to her parents and her feelings for the man she loves. • Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly. After Andi finds the journal of a doomed Parisian actress from the 16th century, her life is changed dramatically. • The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart. Chaos and hilarity ensue after Frankie infiltrates her boyfriend’s all-male secret society at their elite boarding school. • Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer. Miranda describes through journal entries how her life—and the entire world—is changed after a meteor hits the moon. • Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater. In all the years she has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house, Grace has been particularly drawn to an unusual yelloweyed wolf who has been watching her with increasing intensity.

Great Books for Boys, Grades 6-8 • Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce. Even though Liam looks 30, he’s actually 12 years old. How do you think he’ll react when he finds himself as the “adult” chaperone on a spaceship that is stuck on the dark side of the moon? • Crunch by Leslie Connor. Can Dewey Mariss, the “embodiment of responsibility,” hold his family and family business together after a sudden energy crisis? • Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham. Amateur attorney, Theodore Boone, solves the highest profile murder case his town has ever seen. • First Light by Rebecca Stead. When Peter and his family move to Greenland during a research expedition, he stumbles upon his mother’s secret past and begins an adventure that is out of this world. • My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian. I bet you don’t hate your summer reading list as much as Derek! Read and he’ll give you great ideas on how to procrastinate this summer.

Great Books for Boys, Grades 9-12 • The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. Junior, a budding cartoonist, leaves his troubled school on the Spokane Indian Reservation to attend an all-white school where the only other Indian is the school mascot. • As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth by Lynne Rae Perkins. A teenage boy encounters one comedic calamity after another when he’s stranded in the middle of nowhere. • The Body of Christopher Creed by Carol Plum-Ucci. Torey Adams, a high school junior with a seemingly perfect life, struggles with doubts and questions surrounding the mysterious disappearance of the class outcast. • Unwind by Neal Shusterman. Connor is too difficult for his parents to control, so they decide to have him “unwound.” After banding together with Risa and Lev, he may have a chance to escape and survive. • Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman. Fourteen-year-old Shawn, crippled with cerebral palsy, recounts his hopes and fears since he thinks his father is planning on killing him. n

When you register, you’ll receive an activity guide, an activity log, and instructions for program participation. Participants will receive fun rewards for completing weekly activities. Registration for Reading Together begins Monday, June 6. Reading Together activity log check-in begins Monday, June 20 and ends Friday, August 5.

Summer Reading Who: School-aged children entering grades 2 through 5 When: June 20-August 4 Where: Library’s Kids Department 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 a 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. Registration begins Monday, June 6. Summer Reading log check-in begins Monday, June 20 and ends Thursday, August 4. n 40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

T Kids Department Summer Programs at the Library Summer programs are fun for all!

Parents of , Open Letter to chool Students S h ig H d n a Middle

participate your child can ity tiv ac t an improved with ost import Perhaps the m like any skill, is , ng eir di ea R g. g to improve th is readin end time readin in this summer sp to ed ne es ag of all practice. Kids , but kids who s. tie ili ab g centive to read in in read tle it’s lit ed ne usually They’ll tell you Good readers reading books. g at in lk ad ba re n d te fin of fficult these kids find reading di er is . Often times m ad um re S to . e rd lik ha t don’ ading boring or they use they find re rewarding beca un d . an ad lt re cu to ffi di kids read at encourage your e students who a great time to d seventh grad an possibly d th an six n at ai th s will maint th Studies show on e m er m m n lose an entir during the su do not read ca ho g w in least six books s ad id re K n, s. ill tio reading sk mer. In addi m su e th er improve their ov t ry test ill achievemen dents’ vocabula grade level of sk ly increases stu al ic at m ste sy er over the summ gram een Read Pro troducing a T scores. in is courage en ry to ra is lib e e th sole purpos ts I . This summer 12 h ug ro hopes your teen into grades 6 th he library staff T for kids going n! fu r fo g ally readin reading, especi Sincerely, mmer. su is th an will read Your Librari Debra Conn, d. n Rea ation about Tee r more inform fo w lo be ee S P.S.

Eight Things to Know About Summer Reads 2011—Teen Read 1. Teen Summer Read for kids entering grades 6 through 12 begins Monday, June 20 and ends Thursday, August 4. Sign up begins Monday, June 6. 2. When you sign up, pick out a few books. If you don’t like the book, start another book. Choose books you have not read before. The books must be checked out from the Upper St. Clair Township Library. 3. Read books you like. Read 25 to 30 pages of one book. If you like the book, keep reading. 4. Ask the librarian staff for help finding books to read. They’re here to help. 5. Teens will complete a questionnaire for each book they read. Return the questionnaire to the library to get credit for reading your book. Each book you complete gives you a chance to win a prize. 6. The Teen Summer Read prize drawing will be Friday, August 5. 7. Kids who are library volunteers must register for summer reading in order to be eligible for summer volunteer time. 8. Volunteers can attain VIP status by reading five books during Teen Summer Read. • VIP status will apply August through November 2011. • You’ll receive volunteer information one week before non-VIP volunteers. • You will be eligible for two extra volunteer hours per month.

USC Township Library Hours Monday–Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Outside book and video return available 24/7. Items collected daily at 9 a.m. Library closed on Sunday, April 24 for Easter and Saturday, May 21 for Community Day. Library closed summer Sundays May 29–September 4.

www.twpusc.org/library

412-835-5540

Art in the Park Friday, June 3, 10 a.m.-noon Preschoolers accompanied by an adult Registration begins Monday, May 23 Family Storytime Thursdays: June 2, July 14 and August 18, 7 p.m. Children ages 3 ½ and older with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Call the library for registration dates. Astro Blast! Thursday, August 4, 2-4 p.m. For all Ready to Read and Summer Reading participants, accompanied by an adult Registration begins Monday, July 18 Summer Classes at the Library Monday, June 27–Friday, August 5. Registration for summer classes begins Monday, June 6 Babies and Toddlers Mondays at 9:30, 10:30 or 11:30 a.m. Children ages 4-24 months with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Twos and Threes Tuesdays or Wednesdays at 10 or 11 a.m. Children ages 2-3 ½ with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Preschool Storytime Thursdays at 10 or 11 a.m., Fridays at 2 p.m. Children ages 3 ½, 4, and 5 years old who have not completed Kindergarten Kindergarten Here I Come Wednesdays at 2, 3, and 4 p.m. Children entering Kindergarten this fall I’m Going to First Grade! Mondays at 2, 3, and 4 p.m. Children entering grade 1 this fall I Love to Read! Tuesdays at 2 p.m. Children entering grades 2 or 3 this fall Readers Theater Thursdays at 3 p.m. Children entering grades 4 through 6 this fall

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

P IN EBRI DGE Pinebridge Commons McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road ••••••••••••••••• The Chief Partners

Pediatric Dentistry South

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Piccolina’s Restaurant

Design Image Salon, Joe Ruffalo

Primary Physicians Research

Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc.

Questa Petroleum Co.

Peter Gialames & Associates

Eric J. Reitz DMD &

Interior Designs by

Beth Troy, DMD

Mary Kay Chaffee

Richardson Family

Jimcor Associates, Inc.

State Farm Insurance

Timothy Kerr, DMD &

Suburban Dry Cleaners

Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD

“Exceptional Care for Your Children, Confidence and Convenience for You.” • • • • • • • •

New Patients Welcome Electronic Medical Records Saturday Morning Hours; Evening Hours; Monday thru Saturday walk-in hours available 24/7 On-Call Pediatric and Adolescent specialists In Office Lab In-office medication dispensing Coming Soon

Amy L. McGarrity, MD Kimberly M. Pezzone, MD Edwin B. King, MD Debra M. Faber, MD Mark M. Blatter, MD Whitney L. Boyle, PA-C Kristin L. Koontz, PA-C

Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent.

Larry E. Manalo, DMD Pediatric Alliance

St. Clair Division

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Wininsky Law Offices

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Pinebridge Commons Associates Leasing (412) 220-9288

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4100 LIBRARY ROAD CASTLE SHANNON, PA 15234

412-221-2221

412-343-4100

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

COMMONS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Let us make you smile!

Northern Italian Restaurant “Come visit with the little one”

Received the Trib Media Gold Award as the Most Romantic Restaurant in the Southwest

Private Party and Banquet Room Al Fresco Dining Expanded Dining Room Reservations suggested Gift Certificates available

Phone (412) 257-1880 Fax (412) 257-2895 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd., Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Visit our website: www.piccolinas.com

T imothy J. K err , D.M.D. R omana P autler K err , D.M.D.

KK 412-257-4250 Pinebridge Commons Suite 207 Chairside Whitening System

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. . .O N E S TO P C O N V E N I E N C E 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd Pittsburgh PA 15241

412-257-1150

The orthodontic office of Dr. Eric Reitz and Dr. Beth Troy provides care for the communities of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Dr. Reitz and Dr. Troy take the time to place and adjust braces on every patient, giving individualized attention in a caring environment.

4000 Waterdam Plaza McMurray PA 15317

724-942-4840 133 West Allegheny Road Imperial PA 15126

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Our primary goal is to give your child positive memories that instill lifelong hygiene habits.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today! • Orthodontic services for children and adults Pinebridge Commons location: 1580 McLaughlin Run Road, Suite 200 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-0392

Office hours are Monday through Friday. Evening appointments are available.

Bethel Park location: 2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-831-2188

Summer 2011

• Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment • Convenient appointment hours, including Saturday mornings • 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

T 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 Boyce Field 1 acre Boyce Mayview Park 475+ acres

soccer field

Wiltshire Park

Playground Equipment Play unit and swing set

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

baseball field

Dugouts, batting cage, bleachers

1 baseball field, 1 softball field, 1 football/soccer field

Natural area and wetlands, ten miles of natural surface walking trails, perimeter trail connecting Morton Complex to Baker Park to the active area of Boyce Mayview Park, including the REEC, pavilion, open space, Community & Recreation Center, with its 90,000-square-foot facility featuring indoor/outdoor aquatics, state-of-theart fitness, group fitness rooms, 1/8 mile walking track, 2 full size basketball courts, rentable community rooms Natural area

Brookside Park 3.7 acres 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 sand 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, walkway lighting

Tustin Park 6.52 acres Wiltshire Park 11.2 acres

1 basketball court

Play unit and swing set

Walking trail around park

2 lighted basketball courts, 1 lighted street hockey court

1 4-man totter, 1 large sand play area, 1 swing set with 2 infant swings, 1 large play structure

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Friends of the Library Used Book Sale Bargain books for all ages and tastes will again be featured at the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale, May 4–10 at the large multi-purpose room near the main entrance of the library. With book prices starting at 50 cents, this opportunity is too good to pass up! Bring the family and stock up on good reading! All proceeds are used to assist the USC Township Library in serving the needs of the community.

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Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned And Operated By NRT LLC.

Tuesday, May 10–10 a.m.-noon ($3 Bag Day)

community wide flea market SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2011 (Rain or Shine) Place: USCHS Stadium Parking Lot Time: 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Sale) Setup beginning at 6:30 a.m.

Space is limited, so sign-up for your space early. 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 $12–resident, $17–nonresident. Check should be made payable to Upper St. Clair Recreation. Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Recreation and Leisure Services C&RC—Lots of Activity

New! Kids Helping Kids Youth Triathlon Do you have a child who likes to swim, bike, and run? If so, then the first annual Youth Triathlon at Boyce Mayview Park would be the right place for him or her to show some spirit. Ages 7, 8, 9 Swim 75 yards (3 lengths of the pool) Bike 1 mile Run 0.5 mile Ages 10, 11, 12 Swim 125 yards (5 lengths of the pool) Bike 2 mile Run 1 mile Date: Saturday, July 30 Time: 7:30 a.m., Age group: 7, 8, 9 (event day registration promptly at 7 a.m.) 9 a.m., Age group: 10, 11, 12 (event day registration promptly at 8:30 a.m.) Place: C&RC Outdoor Pool (starting location) Fee: $25 per registrant Registration: Deadline–July 22. Maximum of 200 total participants. Athletes must complete a legal waiver prior to participation. All athletes must arrive at the C&RC’s outdoor pool area at the above Age Group event day registration starting time. No rain date scheduled if cancelled due to weather. Helmet and bike required.

Second Annual Lifeguard Showdown This exciting competition features seven events based on skills, drills, and CPR/AED and saving techniques adhering to the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training standards. In addition to the events, a written test will be administered in the indoor aquatic party rooms. Four judges will note all scores for individuals and teams and determine the winning team at end of the competition. Each team is made up of three certified lifeguards and must have at least one female per team; an all-female team is permitted. Event day registration is promptly at 7:30 a.m. Date: Sunday, July 17 Time: 8-11a.m. Place: C&RC outdoor pool Fee: $60 per team of three Registration: Deadline–Friday July 8

Participants complete a skills event in the Lifeguard Showdown

For more information, visit the C&RC during normal business hours or the C&RC website at www.livesmarterplayharder.org.

Blood Drive at the C&RC

Be someone’s hero! In fact, you may help as many as three people with just one donation. The demand for blood in the Allegheny County region continues to grow. Approximately 60% of the population is eligible to donate blood, but only five percent do so. It feels great to donate! Most people have blood to spare, yet there is still not enough to go around. You will help to ensure blood is on the shelf when it’s needed. Most people don’t think they’ll ever need blood, but many do. Date: Wednesday, June 29 Time: noon-7 p.m. Place: C&RC, as posted 46

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

You are eligible to donate blood if you: • Are in good physical health • Weigh at least 110 pounds • Have not donated whole blood in the past 56 days • Are at least 16 years old (parent permission required for those under 18). There is no upper age limit. To schedule an appointment, call 412-221-1099, extension 600. Online registration available several weeks prior to the blood drive through the Central Blood Bank website at www.centralbloodbank.org. n Summer 2011

New! Complete Players– Basketball-Skill Instruction The C&RC is excited to offer “complete players,” a comprehensive basketball developmental program for individuals and small groups geared toward creating and improving basketball specific skills and abilities. The Chaz McCrommon organized program will be instructed by Chaz McCrommon, former Robert Morris University small forward who is currently playing professionally overseas. Chaz will utilize the knowledge he gained through his collegiate and current professional basketball experiences to provide a high level of instruction that will aid in developing participants into “complete players.” Fee per session: $45-C&RC member $50-Resident/non-member $55-Surrounding community non-member All sessions are one hour in duration. Packages are sold in multiples of two; a ten percent discount is included with purchase of 12 session packages or higher. Group rates are also available; maximum of four participants per group. n

National EMS Week— May 15-21 T h i s y e a r , Tr i Community South EMS is observing National Emergency Medical Services Week May 15-21. National EMS Week is sponsored by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). It was first designated in 1974 by U.S. President Gerald Ford to honor EMS providers nationwide who deliver lifesaving care all day, every day, with little fanfare and little recognition. With the support of Eat ’n Park Restaurants, the Emergency Medical Service Institute of Western Pennsylvania has established the website http://www.doUrealize.com/ to help call the public’s attention to EMS Week and to thank local EMS providers. n

At the Heart of Cardiac Care Kevin Trichtinger, TCS

Tri-Community South EMS continues to make a difference in preventing serious long-term effects of heart attack. Since 2004, TCS has been transmitting diagnostic quality 12-lead electrocardiograms (EKGs) from its cardiac monitors to the receiving hospital emergency department. This information can be critical in determining whether a patient is having an acute heart attack and allows the receiving hospital to begin preparations for intervention while the patient is still on the way to the hospital. A heart attack is a lack of blood flow to part of the heart muscle. The most common cause of heart attack is the rupture of plaque on the walls of the arteries in the heart, causing a blood clot that stops all blood flow past that point. This deprives the heart muscle that is supplied by that artery with the oxygen that all tissue needs in order to live. The heart muscle tissue will begin to die within minutes, and the damage will be irreversible within a few hours. Symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, jaw pain, arm pain, nausea, or sweating usually occur immediately upon the blockage of the blood vessel. Since time is a critical factor in preventing permanent heart muscle death, it is most important to act immediately when someone has these symptoms. The only appropriate course of action when someone has heart attack symptoms is to call for an ambulance immediately. Paramedics will assess the condition and monitor the heart rhythm, and obtain a 12-lead EKG. This EKG can show that a heart attack is in progress. If this is so, the paramedics will begin to treat it and will transmit the 12-lead EKG to the hospital, where the emergency room physician can consult with a cardiologist to determine the best

course of action. Usually, this will be immediate cardiac catheterization to determine the exact location and extent of the blockage, and coronary angioplasty to restore the blood flow. Any delay in the restoration of blood flow increases the damage to the heart. Never wait to call for help when someone shows heart attack symptoms, and always call for an ambulance first, before calling family, friends, or even the patient’s doctor. The doctor will tell you that you need to call for an ambulance. You should call for an ambulance, rather than trying to transport the patient in a family car, since the ambulance crew will be able to start heart-saving care well before the patient arrives at the hospital. In the South Hills of Allegheny County, local community hospitals have heart centers that are equipped and ready to make full use of the information provided by Tri-Community South’s crews to speed the process of restoring blood flow to the injured heart. This can help speed recovery from a heart attack and improve the patient’s chances of returning to a fully productive life. The national standard for time from arrival at the hospital to restoration of blood flow, also called “reperfusion time,” is 90 minutes. Patients who come to the hospital by EMS will have many of the needed procedures complete before arriving at the hospital, and the reperfusion time is much shorter. Allegheny County’s south suburban hospitals surpass national averages by a large margin in the ability to meet this standard, and report the shortest times with patients who arrive by EMS. In the past, when reperfusion times were measured in hours rather than minutes, most patients who survived a heart attack spent weeks

Kristy G. Cupelli D.M.D. Pediatric Dentistry

Alfred A. Cupelli D.M.D.

Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry

411 McMurray Road, Suite 102 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412/831-3373 Fax: 412/831-3777 in the hospital, and lived as “cardiac cripples,” unable to engage in many normal life activities because of permanent heart muscle damage. Today, most patients who are treated quickly are able to return to normal activities within days, with no or minimal permanent heart muscle damage. Tri-Community South EMS is proud to be able to help this happen. n

2011 EMS Subscription Drive Requests Your Support The Tri-Community South EMS

annual subscription drive is continuing. As of March 1, 2011, less than one quarter of the households in Upper St. Clair Township—only 1700 households out of about 7000—have joined. This puts Upper St. Clair solidly in last place in support for EMS among Tri-Community South’s communities. Tri-Community South operates solely on income from the subscription drive, insurance reimbursements, and fees for service. Tri-Community South receives no municipal tax money. Your subscription to Tri-Community South EMS means that should you need medically necessary ambulance transportation, TriCommunity South EMS will accept reimbursement from your health insurance carrier as payment in full for the services rendered. You will not receive any direct bill for these services.

Non-subscribers must pay the full fee for service, regardless of what the insurer pays. Your subscription entitles you to medically necessary emergency ambulance service anywhere in the Municipality of Bethel Park, South Park Township, and Upper St. Clair Township, and also in the boroughs of Dormont, Castle Shannon, Whitehall, Green Tree, Baldwin, Pleasant Hills, Brentwood, Jefferson Hills and the Municipality of Mt. Lebanon and Scott Township. Your subscription covers all family members living at your home address and any guests or visitors at your home during an incident or occurance. Your subscription also covers pre-scheduled non-emergency ambulance service when medically necessary, when the service meets the requirements or guidelines of your health care insurance provider and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Summer 2011

Services that are not “reasonable and necessary” are not covered by your subscription. Your 2011 subscription takes effect as soon as it is received and the payment is accepted by Tri-Community South. It remains in effect through December 31, 2011. Subscribe now and help us help you! n If you have questions about your ambulance subscription or about Tri-Community South EMS and the services it provides, call 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit the website at www.tcsems.org. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC VFD Offers Summer Safety Tips Russell Rauch, Fire Prevention Coordinator

With warmer weather and longer days approaching, residents of Upper St. Clair are focusing on projects like home repairs and yard work. Many are also lacing up their shoes for outdoor activities, including walking and jogging. These activities can be extremely beneficial, but they also involve a variety of health and safety hazards that can be avoided with the proper precautions. To help ensure that everyone in our community stays safe this season, the members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department offer the following tips and suggest you post them where they can be seen by your family members and co-workers.

Cleaning for Safety Warmer weather is the perfect time for homeowners to clean up the debris that has been accumulating in basements, storage sheds, and garages. • Household and pool chemicals, paints, and poisons should be properly marked and stored under lock and key, away from children’s reach. Dispose of any that are leaking, expired, or that look bad. • When cleaning up hazardous chemicals, wear rubber gloves and follow the safety direction on the packaging. Never mix chemicals in the same container. If you don’t’ know how to dispose of them, seek outside advice. Never put them into the trash or pour down the drain. • Make sure gasoline and cleaning fluids are well marked and stored in a cool, dry place away from the house and out of the reach of children and pets. Use only approved containers for gasoline storage. • Never use gasoline to clean skin, clothes, auto parts, or floors. • Clean up work areas. Put dangerous tools, adhesives, matches, or other work items away from children’s reach. • Check your barbecue grill for leaks and cracks, and be sure to store any propane tanks away from your house and garage. • Remove all fire hazards, including stacks of rags, newspapers, and magazines. Pay special attention to the spaces around your furnace, hot water tank, fireplace, space heaters, and dryer, as well as under the stairs. Yardwork Safety Itching to get the yard into shape for the summer? Here are ways to help ensure your spruce-up is disaster-free. • Limber up. Yard chores may seem easy, but they involve muscles you probably haven’t used in a while. • Always wear protective clothing when you handle pesticides and fertilizers.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

• More than 60,000 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for lawn-mower injuries. Take these precautions:. » Rake before you mow to prevent any stones and loose debris from launching into the air. » Never operate a mower in your bare feet and avoid wearing loose clothing. » Never start a mower indoors. » When refueling your mower, make sure the engine is off and cool. Don’t spill gasoline on a hot engine, and don’t smoke while pouring gasoline. » Never leave your mower operational while unattended. » Don’t use electrical mowers on wet grass. • At least 55,000 people each year sustain injuries from trimmers, lawn edgers, pruners, and power saws. What to do? » Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using the tools. » Inspect the product for damage and don’t use it if there are problems. » Wear proper eye protection. » Make sure blade guards are in place on all cutting equipment. » Don’t let tools get wet unless they are labeled “immersible.” » Unplug all tools when not in use. » Make sure the tool is in the “off” position before you plug it in. » Store gasoline-powered equipment away from anything that uses a pilot light. » Make sure you use the right saw for the task, and always wait for the saw blade to stop before pulling away from a cut to avoid kickback. • When pruning trees, be careful to not let metal ladders or trimmers contact overhead wires. • Before you do any “hands on” weed removal, make sure you know how to identify poison ivy, sumac, oak, and similar toxic plants. Find out ahead of time how to treat the rashes they cause to reduce the irritation. Outdoor Safety Ready for some outdoor exercise and adventure? Here are a few pointers. • Inactive muscles can take only so much strain. Don’t overdo it! Build up slowly so you don’t have strains that can put you out of commission for some time.

• Summer is also severe weather time. If the skies look threatening, check to see if a storm watch or warning has been issued before you initiate outdoor activities. If you’re already outside and thunderstorms threaten, go immediately into a building or enclosed vehicle. For tornadoes, go to the nearest safe structure or the basement or interior first-floor room of your home. If there’s no time to follow these precautions, take cover in a ditch or depression in the ground. Ladder Safety Ready to do some home repairs? On average, about 145,000 people visit the emergency room each year because of ladder mishaps. Here are a few safety tips: • Read the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your ladder. They contain guidelines for weight and height limits, as well as for the proper use of the product. • Inspect the ladder before using it to make sure there are no loose or broken rungs. • Make sure the ladder is the right height for the job. Many accidents happen when people overextend their reach because their ladders are too short. • Never stand on a ladder’s bucket shelf. • Make sure the ladder is completely open and that all of its feet are planted on a firm, level surface. Extension ladders should not be placed at an angle that is too extreme. • Avoid using a metal ladder near electrical sources. • Face the ladder when climbing down and make sure your weight is centered between the two sides.

 Dedicated Professional  Skilled Negotiator Frankie Jo Kunselman —Realtor®—

 Upper St. Clair Resident

412.833.3600 ext.222 Cell: 412.551.1161 Office:

Email: frankiejokunselman@howardhanna.com

Howard Hanna - USC Office 180 Fort Couch Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

“These are just a few of the safety precaution to consider during the summer,” says Russ Rauch of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. “It’s also a great time to replace your smoke detector batteries, make sure your fire extinguishers are placed in proper locations around your home, and ensure you have a working flashlight and battery-powered radio for summer storms. By taking the right precautions when warmer weather beckons, you and those around you can enjoy a safer, healthier summer.” n For more information, contact the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department at 412-835-0660.

Temporary Polling Places for May 17 Primary Election Polling places at Fort Couch Middle School for the May 17 primary election will be in the LGI Room, near the entrance to the school along Fort Couch Road and include Ward 1, District 3; Ward 1, District 4; Ward 2, District 1; Ward 2, District 3; and Ward 2, District 4. At Boyce Middle School, all polling places that have been in the gym will be temporarily moved for the primary to the two classrooms to the right of the main entrance to the school on the Boyce Road side of the building and include Ward 4, District 2; Ward 4, District 3; Ward 4, District 4; and Ward 5, District 3. Following completion of the buildings’ construction projects over the summer, the aforementioned polling places will move to the respective gymnasiums for the fall general election. n Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Home & Garden

And the Livin’ is Easy

Cathy Davin, Owner, Davin Interiors LLC Summer is just around the corner. We all anticipate the freshness and warmth it brings to our home life. Why not incorporate some of these ideas to lighten and rejuvenate your home for the season? Come into the light... Why not replace heavy fabrics with light-weight selections in fresh, bright colors for the summer? Put away those dark toss pillows and throws on the sofa and replace with inexpensive cotton quilts and bright, cheerful pillows in patterns and colors. Replace dark towels and bedding with lightweight, colorful choices in your bedroom and bathroom as well. Roll-up a dark area rug for the summer and simply take pleasure in the wood or stone floor underneath bare feet. Or, add a classic sisal or cotton rug for the summer months. You’ll love it! Out is in… While you’re at it, replace those artificial arrangements and dusty house plants with beautiful potted flowers and trees. Select colorful plants that bloom for weeks! Bunch a few together in pretty pots to add zing to your home. Give your kitchen a summer fragrance with herbs growing in the kitchen window. Plants are a wonderful way to add zest in your home during the summer months. In is out… We love to use our porches and patios during the summer months, so furnish these areas with as much care 50

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as you do the rest of your home. Beautiful options for furniture, lamps, and rugs are readily available for indoor-outdoor use. Outdoor fabrics are not only weather and fade resistant, but come with soft textures, gorgeous patterns and colors. Just as you do inside, create a comfortable outside reading area with great chair and side table for your drink and book. Set your outdoor dining table with colorful linens and a fresh centerpiece made of summer fruits and veggies. Light my fire… Candle light and fireplaces are wonderful in summer. This may finally be the year to upgrade that outdoor fireplace. If a fireplace isn’t right for you, try grouping candles— indoor or out—in scents like gardenia, linen, or lemon. How about a candle burning chandelier (carefully!) over an outdoor dining table? Now we’re talking romance! Start now to enjoy every moment of this summer in your home. We know it goes by all too quickly! n See ad on page 9.

Home & Garden

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Home & Garden Upper St. Clair’s Kitchen & Bath Design Center

In this economy, an investment in your home is one of the safest investments you can make. Whether you plan to live in your home long term or are planning to sell your home within the next 5 years, a new kitchen and bath can offer a 30% return on your investment. Premier Home Design Center offers expertise and products designed to fit your budget. Call Premier now for an excellent return on your biggest investment. Design & Planning Services • A Merillat Signature Showroom • Consultations by appointment 412-276-5650

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Determining Your Kitchen Budget

Laura Reid Riggin, Sales Manager/Designer, Premier Home Design Center

Most designers would advise their clients that cabinets should You need a new kitchen. Now what? Remodeling a kitchen can add significant value to a home. The be a priority item in the budget. Well-made cabinets will last for most important and challenging part of any remodeling project decades. Spending a little extra money to upgrade to a better grade is determining your budget. Homeowners have many options of cabinetry will benefit you in the long run. Experts advise that your kitchen remodeling to assist them in determining an appropriate budget. You know you may want to replace your The details and materials of project shouldn’t exceed more than 15% of your the project will be dictated home’s value. Of this budget, at least half should countertops, but are considering new cabinets by a budget that you are be designated for cabinetry. Approximately as well. Perhaps your kitchen flooring needs replacing and the light fixtures are looking comfortable with and that 15% can be expected for appliances, flooring, old and tired. The details and materials of the will be in line with the market lighting, and plumbing fixtures. The remaining 35% would be allocated to labor, contracting project will be dictated by a budget that you are value of your home. comfortable with and that will be in line with services, and permits. Another helpful tool for determining your budget can be found the market value of your home. Whether you are considering a complete makeover (floors, online at Fine Homebuilding’s new calculator by typing “estimate cabinets, electric, and appliances) or starting with a few elements your cabinets and countertops” into your browser. Using this tool, (cabinets and countertops), the best method for determining you can estimate your budget by selecting different cabinet and your budget is to talk with an expert. Qualified kitchen and bath countertop choices. Planning ahead is crucial to any remodel, including a sucdesigners will be able to help you establish your priorities within a budget that you have in mind. Their experience and product cessful kitchen remodel. It is imperative that you be well aware knowledge will help you avoid spending an inappropriate amount of your budget limitations before you begin shopping for your in one area or on one item and not having enough money to project. Being specific about your budget with your designer is the first step on your way to your new complete the project. See ad on this page. dream kitchen. n 52

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Summer 2011

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Home & Garden

It’s Summer—Is Your Car Safe to Drive?

Cindy Brophy, State Farm® Agent Summer is here and that means engine can lead to many additional it’s time for vacations, cookouts, and sumproblems. mer road trips. Before you jump into the • Check all engine fluid levels (along family vehicle, have you done everything with coolant, transmission, and brake you can to ensure safe travels? If not, you fluids). may want to think twice about driving “Old • Have your vehicle inspected. Before Faithful” across the country or across town going on long road trips, it is highly to a barbeque. suggested you have your vehicle inWe all know that with summer comes spected by a certified mechanic. He extreme heat, which can wreak havoc on will be able to diagnose and assess any a car. However, there are a few things you issues your vehicle may have. can do to keep your car in its best operat• Check your tire pressure (including the ing condition. spare). For the most part, vehicles can • Change the oil. Every 3000 miles, or lose about one pound of pressure per every three to six months, is usually the month. Driving on underinflated tires amount of time between oil changes. can lead to increased gas consump(It’s also not a bad idea to rotate your tion, and more wear and tear on the tires every other oil change to ensure tires, among other things. Above all, equal wear.) Oil is critical to the funcplay it safe! tion of an engine. Not changing the oil can lead to increased wear and tear Not only do you want to make sure on the engine, which could decrease your vehicle is mechanically sound, but performance. An underperforming you also want to make sure you keep the 54

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Summer 2011

proper necessities available in your car. If you were to become stranded somewhere, do you have items that would make your wait a little less painful? Here are just a few items you’ll want to make sure you keep in your car, not only in the summer months, but year-round: flashlight, flares, and a first-aid kit; jumper cables; a mat or blanket; extra clothes and gloves (you never know when you may have to go under the hood or the car); paper towels; extra washer fluid; nonperishable food items; water; basic tools. * Now that you’ve had your car inspected and you’ve stocked your trunk with the proper necessities, you should be ready to go. Remember to get plenty of rest before you drive long distances. Safe, happy travels to you! n * Visit www.foxreno.com—Summer Driving Tips, June 2010 See ad on page 42.

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Take a Soil Sample

Gary Schafer, USC Parks and Forestry Administrator Summer is almost here! The throughout your garden to ensure an forsythia has bloomed, and the daffodils average distribution of the matter in your have faded away. With our last chance garden. Ultimately, you would need about for a frost coming to an end, it is time to two cups worth of soil for the test. The soil test will determine the amount start preparing the garden. If you haven’t already done so—and, don’t worry, it’s of the major nutrients in the soil, including not too late—take a soil sample of your nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as vegetable garden. A soil sample analysis well as identifying any corrections neceswill determine any nutrient deficiencies sary for the soil pH level. These major in your soil. Correcting those deficiencies nutrients and pH level all play a vital role will give you the edge to grow that perfect in the development of plants. • Nitrogen is the “growth” of the plant. heirloom tomato or the prize pumpkin for Be careful, too much nitrogen will Halloween. Taking a soil sample is a very give your plants more leaves and less easy process, and the local Pennsylvania produce. State University Cooperative Extension • Phosphorus encourages rooting and office can assist with the laboratory testing flower development. The more flowers for a nominal fee. The Allegheny County on your plants mean a greater yield of office, located at 400 N. Lexington Street, produce. Pittsburgh 15208, can be reached at • Potassium is necessary for the proper 412-473-2540. development of produce. Without The best way to take a soil sample is potassium, your anticipated prized to insert a soil probe into the ground. The probe removes an inch diameter core of vegetables will be tiny and more sussoil, approximately two to four inches ceptible to disease and insect damage. deep. It is ideal to take multiple probes 56

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• When the soil pH is too acidic (low pH) or alkaline (high pH), the nutrients in the soil become unavailable for the plants to utilize. Adding a form of garden lime raises the pH level, while adding sulfur lowers it. What type of product, lime or sulfur, and how much of it depends on the soil test results. The laboratory report will identify what to do once you get your results. Typically, for a home garden, it is best to have a neutral or slightly acidic pH level for the optimal growing conditions of most vegetables. n

Take a soil sample and have it analyzed for nutrients and pH level.

Tomatoes—at the Heart of Summer Produce Kathy Gillen

Is your garden overflowing with “Sun Golds”? Or do you have a pot full of “Better Boys”? With over 600 varieties of tomatoes to choose from, even non-gardeners can reap a harvest of homegrown goodness with a pot and a sunny spot on the deck. Biting into the sweetness of a vine-ripened tomato on an August afternoon is a simple summer food delight. But it isn’t just the ease of growing or spectacular flavor that make tomatoes so appealing. Recent medical and nutritional studies extol the numerous health benefits of tomatoes. The phytonutrient most studied in tomatoes is lycopene. Phytonutrients are plant chemicals that compose fruits and vegetables. Nutritional research has recently focused on the healing assets of a number of these compounds. Lycopenein tomatoes have antioxidant properties that protect cells from oxidative stress. This stress causes us to age and cells to function at sub-optimal levels. Lycopene also shows protective properties against heart disease and several cancers. Data from 21 studies was analyzed by Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention. The studies showed that men who ate raw tomatoes showed an 11% reduction in prostate cancer risk and those who ate cooked tomatoes showed a 19% reduction in risk. Besides lycopene, tomatoes boast a high concentration of vitamins C, A, and B6. Additional studies show that the synergistic effect of phytonutrients along with the vitamins in tomatoes, keeps cholesterol low and provides many heart-healthy benefits. Not only are tomatoes a summer tradition, they are loaded with nutrients that keep cells healthy. If your garden is overflowing with the goodness of ripe tomatoes, enjoy them, knowing that their benefits reach far beyond your taste buds! n Fifteen Minute Tomato & Black Bean Salad 1 15 oz can black ½ tsp. chili powder beans, drained and ¼ tsp. garlic powder rinsed ¼ cup olive oil 2 large tomatoes, 2 Tbs. red wine chopped vinegar 1 cucumber, chopped Salt and pepper to 1 scallion, chopped taste ½ tsp. cumin power Combine beans and vegetables in medium bowl. Lightly toss. Add remaining ingredients and toss well. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with whole wheat pita chips or on a bed of garden fresh lettuce. Make 4-6 servings.

USC resident Kathy Gillen, a wellness coach and nutritional consultant, is passionate about helping individuals and families feel well. To learn more about Kathy’s services, visit www.wellnessroadtrip.com, call 412-427-1137, or email Kathy@wellnessroadtrip.com.

“My life has been enriched since I’ve been here at Country Meadows. I’m very happy here!” — Aurie, Country Meadows resident since 2004

Aurie’s days at Country Meadows are filled with friends, family, volunteering, travel and community activities. She keeps a busy schedule! Country Meadows offers independent living, assisted living, specialized care options and in-home services to fit the individual needs of most seniors. Like Aurie, every one of our residents is unique. So having more choices about how they live makes a world of difference.

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Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Support Restorative Services | Skilled Nursing Care | In-Home Services Country Meadows does not discriminate in resident admission on the basis of race, ancestry, religious creed, age, sex, handicap, disability or national origin, provided the resident, in the sole opinion of Country Meadows, can be cared for legally and responsibly.

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Summer 2011

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SD Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors *Date indicates expiration of term.

Harry F. Kunselman President 412-851-1115 2013*

Rebecca A. Stern Vice President 412-220-0745 2011*

Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2011*

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2011*

Frank J. Kerber 412-833-4873 2013*

Bruce L. Kerman 412-221-5407 2013*

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 412-851-0622 2013*

Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2011*

Louis A. Piconi 412-831-1880 2011*

The 2011 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Central Office Board Room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.

School District Detailed Monthly Calendar Visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. 58

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Named to AP® Achievement List

Upper St. Clair School District is one of fewer than 400 school districts across the nation to be honored by the College Board with a place on its AP® Achievement List for opening AP classroom doors to a significantly broader pool of students, while maintaining or improving the percentage of students earning scores of three or higher. From 2008 to 2010, USC School District increased the number of students participating in AP from 204 to 231, while maintaining the percentage of students earning AP exam scores of three or higher, the score typically needed to earn college credit, from 93% in 2008 to 92% in 2010. Dr. Patrick O’Toole, USC Superintendent of Schools, stated, “Once again, our students have demonstrated their ability to perform at the highest level on the most rigorous assessments. We are proud of this accomplishment by our students and teachers.” The AP® Achievement List is made up of all school districts that are simultaneously expanding opportunity and improving performance, so even low-performing districts are included if they have been able to maintain or improve scores while expanding access. The list includes 388 school districts representing 43 states, with California’s 37 districts on the list representing the largest number of districts from a single state, followed by Michigan with 29 districts and Pennsylvania with 28. “Participation in college-level AP courses can level the playing field for underserved students, give them the confidence needed to succeed in college, and raise standards and performance in key subjects like science and math,” said College Board president Gaston Caperton. “The AP® Achievement List districts are defying expectations by expanding access while enabling their students to maintain or improve their AP exam scores.” Many U.S. school districts have focused on expanding access to AP courses as part of a strategy of fostering college readiness. While these efforts have resulted in more students earning scores of three or better—the score typically cited as a “qualifying” or “successful” score because the majority of U.S. colleges and universities provide college credit or advanced placement for this score—these efforts have also resulted in more students now earning scores of one or two. Accordingly, there has been a slight decline since 2001 in the percentage

of AP students scoring a three or better, a decline that is to be expected in any program attracting a broader cross-section of students. Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP community, from AP teachers to district and school administrators to college professors. Many are experimenting with a variety of initiatives and strategies to determine how to simultaneously expand access and improve student performance. “These districts are living proof that when access to AP is provided for the range and breadth of prepared and motivated students, districts can achieve even higher learning outcomes for their students—and the opportunity for so many more to earn college credit and placement—than when AP opportunities were restricted to a smaller segment of the high school population,” said Trevor Packer, vice president of the College Board’s Advanced Placement Program®. Inclusion on the list is based on the following criteria: 1. Examination of three years of AP data, from 2008 to 2010; 2. Increase in participation in and access to AP by at least four percent in large districts, at least seven percent in medium districts, and at least 11% in small districts; 3. A steady or increasing percentage of exams taken by African American, Hispanic/ Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native students; and 4. Performance levels maintained or improved when comparing the percentage of exams in 2010 scoring a three or higher to those in 2008, or the school has already attained a performance level in which more than 70% of the AP students are scoring a three or higher. Additionally, school districts with an AP student population comprising 50% or more traditionally underrepresented minority students (African American, Hispanic/ Latino, American Indian/Alaska Native) and/ or low-income students have been noted on the Achievement List to highlight significant improvements in equity and quality among the nation’s historically underserved student populations. The complete AP® Achievement List can be found at www.collegeboard.org. n

About the Advanced Placement Program The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) enables students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school. Through more than 30 college-level courses, each culminating in a rigorous exam, AP provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both. Taking AP courses also demonstrates to college admission officers that students have sought the most rigorous curriculum available to them. Each AP teacher’s syllabus is evaluated and approved by college faculty from some of the nation’s leading institutions, and AP exams are developed and scored by college faculty and experienced AP teachers. AP is accepted by more than 3800 colleges and universities worldwide for college credit, advanced placement, or both on the basis of successful AP exam scores. This includes over 90% of four-year institutions in the U.S.. In 2010, 1.8 million students representing more than 17,000 schools around the world, both public and nonpublic, took 3.2 million AP exams. Summer 2011

USCSD Pilots Summer Student Leadership Academy

At 50 feet in the air, Allison Muck tries to rest on an unsteady rope ladder before making her final ascent through the top tire, to conquere this extreme challenge.

To learn more about the USCHS Student Leadership Academy including what students had to say about their experiences, see the feature article on pages 44-46 in the winter 2010 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY.

Do you think developing leadership skills in students is important? Well, the administration at Upper St. Clair School District does! Because of the success the USCHS Student Leadership Academy experienced last summer, the District has decided to expand the offering to every academic level. The District will be piloting the USCSD Student Leadership Academy this summer for students going into grades four, six, and eight. Upper St. Clair High School will repeat its offering of the Leadership Academy from last summer, Phase I, Authentic Leadership, and pilot Phase II, Visionary and Relational Leadership, as well. The USCSD Student Leadership Academy is a one-week summer workshop (actual number of days will vary depending on the grade level), offering students exposure to age-appropriate leadership concepts and practices. Through experiential learning strategies, group projects, and hands-on activities, students will experience the application of leadership skills, building confidence in their abilities and enhancing their capacity to serve in leadership roles. Questions? Contact Lou Angelo, Leadership Academy students discuss a U S C H S a s s i s t a n t p r i n c i p a l a t solution to a difficult problem challenging 412-833-1600, extension 2272. n their ability to think creatively, plan, and communicate as a team.

Middle Schools Re-designated Schools to Watch Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn

Schools: “Schools to Watch” (PA STW) has once again recognized Upper St. Clair’s Fort Couch and Boyce Middle Schools as part of a recognition program developed by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. In partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the Pennsylvania Middle School Association, Duquesne University, Edinboro University, Lehigh University, and Horace Mann Service Corporation, the Pennsylvania “Schools to Watch” team has announced a re-designation according to the strict STW criteria. Schools are recognized for a three-year period, and at the end of three years must demonstrate progress on specific goals in order to be re-designated. Unlike the Blue Ribbon recognition program, “Schools to

Watch” requires schools to not only identify strengths, but to also focus on areas for continuous improvement, thus the threeyear re-designation. Recognized this year for re-designation as “Schools to Watch” are our two middle schools, Boyce Middle School and Fort Couch Middle School, both of which received the first “Schools to Watch” in 2008. Launched in 1999, Schools to Watch began as a national program to identify middle-grades schools across the country that were meeting or exceeding 37 criteria developed by the National Forum. The National Forum developed a web site (http://schoolstowatch.org) that features online tours of schools, as well as detailed information about the selection criteria used in the recognition program. “We are pleased that our Schools to Summer 2011

Watch program has shown that schools can meet high academic expectations while preserving a commitment of healthy development and equity for all students,” said Dr. Deborah Kasak, National Forum executive director. “These Schools to Watch are indeed special; they make education so exciting that students and teachers don’t want to miss a day. These schools have proven that it is possible to overcome barriers to achieving excellence, and any middle-level school in any state can truly learn from their examples,” Kasak said. The National Forum sponsors the Schools to Watch along with the National Middle School Association, the National Association for Elementary School Principals, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, Learning Forward, ASCD, and State Schools to Watch affiliates. n UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Music Man Delights Young and Old at USCHS Theatre How could you not be excited

by the nearly seventy-six trombones? The crowds on hand for Upper St. Clair High School’s production of Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man were on their feet after this entertaining, toe-tapping, “happily ever after” show. Presented in the USCHS Theatre on March 4, 5, 11, and 12 with a matinee on March 6 and a “family night” performance on March 10, The Music Man told the story The traveling salesmen lament about that swindler “Professor Hill” who sells of fast-talking travelling salesman “Profesband instruments, music, and uniforms but “does not know a lick of music.” sor” Harold Hill who convinces the parents of River City that “we surely got trouble” and they must buy instruments and uniforms to save their children or family member resist this and “figure a way to keep the young ones moral after school.” charmer?” asked Fox. Chaos ensues as Hill’s obviously faked credentials come into A host of memorable songs question, and he finds himself falling in love with the town’s librar- were featured in this five-time ian, Marian Paroo, all while trying to skip town with the cash. Tony award-winning musical, USCHS executive producer and sponsor Paul Fox said of the which premiered on Broadfamily musical, “This was my third production of The Music Man, way in 1957 and released as a and it remains one of my all-time favorite shows.” film in 1962 and a 2003 televi“The magic is in its melodies, marches, dancing, Barbershop sion remake, including “Iowa Leads Bruce Franz (“Harold Hill”) and Quartet, hysterically provincial characters, romantic transfor- Stubborn,” “Ya Got Trouble,” mation of the leads, and especially the kids… all full of hope, “Good Night My Someone,” Sarah Nadler (“Marian the Librarian”) pose a moment during the final dress rehearsal. promise, and excitement over being initiated to the joy of learning “Seventy-six Trombones,” an instrument and forming a band. How could any music teacher “The Sadder But Wiser Girl,” “Goodnight Ladies,” “Marian the Librarian,” “My White Knight,” “The Wells Fargo Wagon,” “Shipoopi,” “Pickalittle Talk-a-little,” “Will I Ever Tell You,” “Gary, Indiana,” “Till There Was You,” and barbershop classics “Sincere,” “It’s You,” and “Lida Rose.” In all, there were more than 90 actors, singers, and dancers, 55 pit orchestra musicians, and another 60 crew members and student staff participating in The Music Man. Providing overall guidance to the 200-plus student company and 100 Theatre Angels (adult volunteers) were executive producer and music director Paul Fox (sponsoring musicals at USCHS since 1984), drama director J.R. Hall, choral and vocal director Lorraine Milovac, choreographer The musical presents numerous colorful (and angry) characters Shari Opfermann, and like “Mayor Shinn” (center) played by Ben Reicher and producer Jane Dodd. “Charlie Cowell,” the anvil salesman (right) featuring USCHS senior Colin Burns. The student leadership team included Alaina Zemanick, Lily Olsakovsky, Julia Dixon, Jess Tropp, and dance captain Lisa Moore. The Music Man delighted the crowds in every way. We hope you had the chance to be entertained by this fun and lively musical! n Harold Hill mesmerizes the residents of River City. 60

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Summer 2011

PTSO Sponsors Author Visit and Other Programs

The USCHS library staff thanks the PTSO for sponsoring West Virginia author Marc Harshman’s school visit in April. Mr. Harshman, a former elementary school teacher, is the author of 11 children’s picture books, a poet, and a storyteller. His children’s book Only One was a Reading Rainbow review title on PBS TV and The Storm was a Junior Library Guild selection, a Smithsonian Notable Book for Children, a Children’s Book Council Notable Book for Social Studies, and a 1995 Parent’s Choice Award recipient. Mr. Harshman was named a recipient of the West Virginia Arts Commission Fellowship in Poetry in 2000 and received the fellowship in Children’s Literature in 2008. Marc Harshman presented a creative writing workshop Marc Harshman to interested students that addressed the practical need for detail in the creation of convincing writing. He used personal examples, diagrams, and student responses to illustrate the movement from generality to detail. He conducted a written exploration of emotional events that encouraged students to draw upon their memories and senses in the creation of a short story or reminiscence. The author then illustrated how the revision process can be brought to bear upon the subsequent shaping of this day’s writing, and entertained questions at the end. Afterwards, Mr. Harshman held a large group presentation that extolled the pleasures of reading and writing. He presented slides of several of his picture books and discussed their literal stories, as well as the stories of their creation. He dazzled his student audience when he told an Appalachian folk tale, and he concluded with hands-on suggestions for student storytelling and writing. n For more information on Marc Harshman, visit www.marcharshman.com.

Zoomobile Assembly Program The Zoomobile visited USCHS in March to present an animated game of endangered species jeopardy, where students examined why animals are endangered and what zoos are doing to help in the animal’s conservation. Several endangered animals from the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium made their appearance at the high school.

Health and the Environment— the Human Connection Program In April, the Pennsylvania Resources Council, Inc. (PRC) sponsored a two-session program to heighten student awareness and encourage student action regarding environmental toxins, their effects on human health, and how to avoid exposure. The program provided USCHS students with practical solutions including safe alternatives and healthy lifestyle choices. This was a partnership project between the PRC and the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute’s Center for Environmental Oncology. n

The Power of Play For the last seven years, students at Streams Elementary have held a silent auction to benefit children in need. This year’s auction theme was “The Power of Play,” and it was certainly brought to life during the auction on February 17, raising over $9000 for three different charities: Casey’s Clubhouse, Project Linus, and a sports-focused Kenya connection. Prior to the evening auction, there was a pep rally for the students earlier in the day featuring performances by the USC High School drum line, Streams staff members, and an appearance by USC grad and former Major League baseball player Sean Casey. Casey, a Streams alumnus, is working to build a Miracle League field at Boyce Mayview Park to provide an opportunity for disabled and special needs kids to play baseball. Each year, a child-focused charity is picked as the auction’s recipient. Before the auction, students learn about the needs of the children served by the charity through classroom and extracurricular activities. This year, students worked during recess and at home to make blankets for Project Linus, an organization that provides new handmade blankets and afghans to children in need. The Kenya sport connection idea came from a Streams family that went to Kenya and worked in a village where the children had very little to play with outside. Students donated gently used, deflated sports balls along with hand pumps to inflate them. The

Streams family that went to Kenya last year plans a return trip this year to deliver the equipment. Students were included in the auction p ro c e s s , d o n a t i n g items like babysitting Streams principal Dr. Claire Miller introduces service, yard work, or Sean Casey to the students. something they made. Students also worked the auction, making decorations, running stations during the event, selling tickets, and running games. Parents, teachers, and administrators encouraged and administered classroom tie-in activities, were part of the planning committee, helped run the event, donated services (ice cream outings and bowling events were popular!), and helped plan items donated by each classroom. Past charities supported by Streams’ Children for Children auction include UNICEF Tsunami Relief (2005), Katrina School Funds in Mississippi and Louisiana (2006), CORE Organ Donation (2007), Dominican Republic Outreach Program (2008), Heifer International (2009), and National Military Family Association’s Operation Purple (2010). n Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

World Maths Day Yes… Math with an “S”

This year in Upper St. Clair, all three elementary schools celebrated World Maths Day. What is World Maths Day you ask? To quote the website, “This is the global education event, where all students and schools from around the world are invited to unite to set a new world record for the number of questions correctly answered in maths, spelling, and science.” This event began in 2007 with students from 98 countries answering 38,904,275 math questions. Last year, 2,403,526 students from 236 countries correctly answered 479,732,613 math questions to set a new Guinness World Record. Students logged in to the World Maths Day site at www.worldmathsday.com and competed against students from around

the world to practice mental math skills. The students could login and practice until Tuesday, March 1—the official World Maths Day competition date. On that date, each student could play up to 100 sixtysecond games and contribute to the global effort to reach a new world record. This event coordinates with USC School District’s initiative in developing 21 st century skills in our students. The skills include becoming self-directed, curious, creative learners who work collaboratively through technology and are inter-culturally aware. Each of the three elementary schools chose its own activities from a collection of activities designed by each building’s math resource teachers. At Baker, students determined if their school was more “odd” or “even” based on information about the student population. They

Mrs. Dillie’s third grade awesome equations!

determined that they are more even. Since they were all wearing shirts with numbers, many classrooms created human number lines and “Awesome Equations” using the numbers on their shirts. Each classroom contributed in the computer lab or on laptop computers to the World Maths Day total in an attempt to break the world record. This also provided the students an additional benefit of multiple chances to practice math facts! Students and staff alike had a great time solving math riddles, playing games, relating math to the real world, and winning prizes from the mysterious math coach for solving equations correctly. From kindergarten to fourth grade, Baker was happily engaged in math learning! At Eisenhower, the day started with the morning announcements and a math riddle. The riddle was followed by five song clips whose titles all contained numbers. Classrooms were challenged to solve the riddle and identify the song titles and send student answers to the office. From the correct entries, administration drew a winner for each grade level and awarded

Fourth grader Landy participates in World Maths Day.

Second grade human numbers line 62

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

First graders participated in World Maths Day Summer 2011

either a book with a math focus or Brain Quest math stacks as a prize. Faculty and students wore shirts with numbers on them and individual teachers were free to incorporate the use of the shirt numbers into their day’s teaching targets. Lots of the classrooms competed in the online challenge by using the computer lab or using laptops in their rooms. There was a lot of excitement, and the children thoroughly enjoyed competing internationally. Many asked if they could take their sign-in information home with them to continue competing that evening. Each classroom was also asked to determine if its students were more even or odd, using an activity from the suggestion folder. The school prepared a bar graph to display the individual classroom results with the caption: Is Eisenhower more like Even Steven or Odd Todd? At Streams, the students and staff were incredibly happy to take part in such a remarkable day! They made human number lines, solved math riddles, and completed various math activities. The students loved practicing their math skills with other participants from around the world. Streams is looking forward to representing Upper St. Clair during next year’s World Maths Day. World Maths Day is a valuable extension of USC School District’s elementary curriculum that attempts to demonstrate to students that the discipline of mathematics is a real-world, relevant, and even fun endeavor. Visit the World Maths Day website to see if USC helped break a world record! n

Keely and Lily in their custom-made WMD shirts Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Odyssey of the Mind

Sharon Byrnes, USC Odyssey of the Mind Coach and Coordinator Since last October, ten teams of kids representing all of the schools in the Upper St. Clair School District began meeting in basements, garages, and Township meeting rooms to work on their Odyssey of the Mind (OotM) projects. Odyssey of the Mind is an international problem solving program for kids of all

ages, where students learn creative problem solving skills and learn how to work together. Each team’s first task was to select and work on one of six problems. This year’s choices were: 1. Extreme Mousemobiles (engineering with a theatrical element). Students who chose this problem had to build vehicles powered only by a mousetrap that were capable of performing six stunts. They also had to perform a play that integrated the running of the mousemobiles. 2. As Good as Gold…. Berg (technical with a theatrical element) This problem required the team to construct a chain reaction type Rube Goldberg machine to accomplish a simple task and create a play which tried to convince others that they wanted the device. 3. Le Tour Guide (theatrical with a research element). This problem involved creating a performance where a character from literature acted as a tour guide on a tour that visited three locations. 4. Unhinged Structure (structural engineering with a theatrical element).This problem had the students design a hinged structure out of balsa wood and integrate the

testing of their structure with a play. 5. Full circle (theatrical). Teams created a humorous performance where something changes form or appearance at least three times and included a very serious character, a very silly character, and a song and dance. 6. Primary (special non competitive problem for grade K-2). This problem required that students write and perform a humorous play about a “money maker” character that tries to make money from wild ideas. Saturday, March 6 marked the culmination of each team’s six-month effort as they competed at the Western Pennsylvania OotM regional competition in Moon Township. Students put in a long day of presentations and spontaneous problemsolving, showing off their creative thinking skills. By the end of the competition, five USC teams placed either first or second at the regional level to allow them to advance to the state level of competition in Williamsport on April 9. The five teams that moved onto state competition included: • First place (problems 1 and 2, division 2) Boyce Middle School, Team A–coach Sharon Byrnes; students Brendan Allen, Connor Byrnes, Liam Carse,

USCHS team performs their balsa skit.

Boyce Middle School Team B performs “Rube Goldberg.” USCHS “Le Tour Guide” team poses with their trophy. 64

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Arushi Kewalramani, Abigail Shoemaker, Vicki Wang. • First place (problem 2, division 1) Streams Elementary– coaches Karen and Jim Boston; students James Boston, CJ Hess, Miles Koziol, Graham Kretschmar, Anthony Rach, Maxwell Turnwald. • Second place (problem 2, division 2) Boyce Middle School, Team B–coaches Susan Rosati and Caroline Fry; students Océanne Fry, Jagadeesh Gummadi, Laura Lapham, Spencer Miller, Neale Misquitta, Jr., Sheb Rosati, Emily Walsh. • Second place (problem 3, division 3) USCHS–coach Susan Rosati; students Paul Austin, Marissa Bowman, Erin Perelstine, Chloe Roberts, Kelsey Roberts, Anna Rosati, Alexa Schlein. • First place (problem 4, division 3) USCHS–coaches Michelle Turnwald and Geralyn Austin; students Kyle Boyce Middle School performs “Extreme Mouse Mobiles.” Austin, Andrew Belack, Maura Boston, Robert Burke, Rebecca Knapp, Josh Simmons, Sydney Turnwald. Updates to the state competition in April and world level competition in May will be showcased in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s fall 2011 edition. n

Streams Elementary “Rube Goldberg” in staging prior to performing.

For more information on Odyssey of the Mind, visit www.uscootm.com.

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Champions of the Water

Upper St. Clair High School’s swimmers and divers really loved the

water this year. As pool and school records were shattered meet after meet, both the boys’ and girls’ teams finished the regular season as section champs. And as exciting as winning sections was, it was just the beginning of an amazing post season. At WPIALs, in one of the most exciting races in recent memory, the boys’ team went down to the wire, beating the defending five-year WPIAL champions North Allegheny in the 400 yard freestyle relay by a mere 0.12 seconds to capture their first WPIAL championship since 1972. The lead of the race changed hands a number of times as Alex Hardwick, James Frauen, and Nathan Novak battled contenders during their leg of relay, with the event, and ultimately the meet, coming down to Kyle Dudzinski’s 45.55 anchor leg. Every boys’ swim and a number of outstanding performances contributed to the Panther WPIAL victory, including spots in the top four from Kyle’s firsts in the record-setting 100 back (48.75) and 100 fly; a first place in the 200 free relay of Hardwick, Frauen, Novak, and Andy Tomiczek; a third place in the 200 medley relay of Dudzinski, Hardwick, Pat Davis, and Charlie Mosca; second places from Hardwick (100 free, 200 free); a third place each from Frauen (200 free) and Tomiczek (50 free); and a fourth place from J.T Perryman (diving).

While the boys won WPIALs in dramatic fashion followed by seventh place at the PIAA state meet out of 54 teams, the up and coming Panther girls’ made their mark as well, finishing fifth at WPIALs with 153.5 points, just 11.5 points behind historical powerhouse Bethel Park. One of the highlights for the WPIAL girls was the 100 fly, where teammates Natalie Johnsen and Brittany Dudzinski both garnered gold with identical 57.22 times from different heats. Other top four finishes were Dudzinski with a second in the 100 back and a third from the 200 medley relay team of Dudzinski, Johnsen, Alison Kearney, and Besty Erlanger. The five-girl state team of Dudzinski, Erlanger, Johnsen, Kearney, and Carissa Hentosz took 18th place out of 54 teams at PIAAs at Bucknell University. The skipper behind the Panther swimmers’ success is head coach Tom Donati, assisted by Tom Fletcher, Ben Gutmann, Kevin McLaughlin, and Stacie Safritt and diving coach Natalie Russo. Coach Donati has been with the USC Swim Club and high school program since September 2009. It was a homecoming of sorts for Coach Donati, who began his coaching career in 1990 at USC for a summer before moving over to Bethel Park for three years. He then coached at the collegiate level at the University of Pittsburgh for three years, then re-entered high school and age group club level coaching at Seneca Valley where he stayed for 13 years before coming back to USC. Coach Donati said his biggest challenge when first coming to USC was the program’s history of marginal success. But he found the swimmers polite and respectful, excited about his program, and willing to work hard.

Members of the girls’ WPIAL team with assistant coach Stacie Safritt travel to the University of Pittsburgh to compete in the two-day meet held there.

Coach Tom Donati gives hand signals to kick harder. 66

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Boys and coaches take the winners’ plunge after placing first at WPIALs this past March.

Hard work goes hand in hand with competitive swimming. Monday through Friday, swimmers are in the pool for two and a half hours each afternoon, averaging 6000 to 8000 yards a day. Three days a week, for an hour each day, they’re in the weight room, and twice a week they’re doing Pilates and Yoga, a program enhancement Coach Donati added this year. While most of their classmates are still dreaming on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, swimmers are in the pool before school to log another 4000 yards, and three-hour Saturday morning practices complete the week with up to another 10,000 yards. “It takes a special kid to put his head down and look at that black line at the bottom of the pool every day,” said Coach Donati.” It’s a job for them, but they love it. I’m proud of all of them!” One of the things Coach Donati enjoys about coaching at USC is having his wife, Victoria, and their children, Sophia and Tanner, attend the meets to cheer on the Panthers, something they weren’t able to do when he coached miles away at Seneca Valley. Nine-year old Sophia swims for USC Swim Club, and we expect that one day, Tanner will, too! n For more information on becoming part of the USC swimming family, visit the club’s website at www.uscswimclub.org.

Competitive Cheerleading— Something to Cheer About

Amanda Sanderson, Competitive Cheerleading Head Coach Competitive Cheerleading is a sport based on a two-minute, 30 second organized fast-paced routine that contains components of stunting, tumbling, jumps, a cheer, and dancing. The competitive cheerleading team at Upper St. Clair High School was organized three years ago by Amanda Sanderson, head coach of the cheerleading program at USC. The competitive squad consists of cheerleaders from grades nine to 12. It is required that you make the sport cheerleading squad in order to be considered for the competitive squad. At tryouts, members for the competitive squad are chosen to represent USCHS based on their talent and cheerleading skills. The 2010-11 competitive team of 20 comprises 12 returning members from the previous year and eight new members to its competitive cheerleading scene, including senior Laurel Steinberger; juniors Gabby DaPra, Mariah Doohan, Shayla Forse, Paige Gillen, Erin Kyle, and Deanna Neiser; sophomores Cheyenne Buntain, Ashley Clayton, Carly Feduska, Kelli Long, Hannah Lund, Ashley Pearson, Alexa Pituch, Alina Pituch, and Cooper Podobnik; and freshmen Nina Brajovic, Kylie Fultineer, Natalie Hesse, and Ally Sciomacco. Practices for the competitive squad’s upcoming year start each August and are in addition to the sport cheering practices and games. Competitive cheerleading is vigorous and difficult for all levels of tumbling, stunting, and jumping. From November through April, the squad usually enters five to six local and regional competitions.

During the team’s first competitive year in 2008-09, the squad took two first places, two second places, and a grand champion award at Nationals in Columbus, Ohio. In the 2009-10 competitive season, the squad went undefeated, taking five first places at all competitions, performing at the Gator Bowl halftime show, and placed as the grand champion winner at Nationals in Jacksonville, Florida. Upper St. Clair competitive cheerleading has a big name and big expectations to live up to. The 2010-11 competitive team never failed to impress with the team members’ dedication and hard work, and it has paid off. At the first competition— Pennsylvania States in Pittsburgh—the team earned second place and received the Best Jumps award. At the next competition, Steeltown Regional by Coastal Corporation, the squad took first place and received a bid to the U.S. Finals. The team took another first place and received the best tumbling award at the Three Rivers Throwdown. The team recently traveled to Columbus for the Midwest nationals, taking second place in their division. The final competition of this year, U.S. Finals, was held in Virginia Beach on April 9. Yes, competitive cheerleading is certainly something to cheer about in Upper St. Clair! n

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We Shine On— Friends of All Ages Baker Third Level Teachers

Imagine life 50 years into the future. The year is 2061 and our current third graders are now grandparents. They are sharing stories of PS3s, iPads, cell phones, 3D movies, and the early days of the Internet with their grandchildren at Baker Elementary. One of the future grandchildren asks the question, “Grandpa, you mean cars didn’t run on electricity back in the year 2011; and tell me again, what was a gas station?” January’s monthly theme at Baker was “Friends of All Ages” and it was such a memorable month for the school’s third level students. Students took the opportunity to interview their grandparents or other special senior citizens to learn what life was like for them when they were in third grade. The third level students were then able to share these interesting details with all of Baker on the school’s morning announcements. To make it even more exciting, the third level students had their very own day to spend with some of our “Friends of All Ages!” It was a remarkable day where grandparents shared stories from when they were in third grade, special life experiences, and personal photographs. Some even read stories. At the end of the program, several students were able to ask questions of the grandparents, including “What was your favorite TV show, and what did you eat for school lunch?” The students couldn’t stop talking about the special connections they made, and the grandparents loved visiting Baker! This was a day that students and grandparents alike will remember and hold dear to their hearts. n

Middle Schools Construction Update The transformation of Upper St. Clair School

District’s two middle schools is coming to completion. Over the past 23 months, these two school sites that served the District so well over the past 40 years have been going through major transformations, resulting in 21st century facilities that will serve the District for the next 40 years. The completion date is set for August 15 for both renovation projects. At Boyce Middle School, all of the instructional areas, new and renovated, have been completed and the portable classrooms removed. The last phases of the project call for the renovation of the school gymnasium, interior hallways, and exterior work including new entrances and grounds work. 68

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All instructional areas at Fort Couch Middle School are completed. The last phase of work at this school site includes the completion of the new gymnasium, the new main entrance that is located on the field side of the school, and exterior grounds work. At the school board meeting on March 14, the Board of School Directors approved renovations to the Boyce athletic complex. Contracts were awarded to install a synthetic turf field, a perimeter track, field lighting and scoreboard, two sets of bleacher stands, and infrastructure for a future concession/toilet facility. Look for School District announcements for the fall 2011 dedication ceremonies of the newly renovated middle schools. n

“Paws”-itively PTA

Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes Stacie de la Parra, USC PTA Council President 2010-11 calm, level-headed, thoughtful, and a solid How do you measure a year? The first time I heard the lyrics to Seasons leader. How would you measure her PTA caof Love from the Broadway Musical Rent, I was reer? In emails? In phone calls? In meetings? hooked. The song deals with the “525,600 In stuffing envelopes? Dr. Claire Miller, principal at Streams, minutes” in a year, and how to “measure” a year of someone’s life. Can that year be measured in described her leadership style as one “chardaylight? Sunsets? Midnights? Cups of coffee? acterized by careful listening, reflection, and If you don’t know the words, google the lyrics pro-active thinking. She excelled in being inclusive, drawing in parents from various and you’ll see what I mean. I got to thinking, how do you measure a grades with unique talents, and with multiple PTA year? And further, how do you measure a perspectives.” Dr. Miller feels that Leanne has lifetime of volunteering? PTA Council tackled done an exceptional job “funneling the ideas that challenge in February, when the organiza- and good intentions of many different families tion honored two outstanding recipients with into meaningful opportunities for all students the Pennsylvania Honorary State Life Member- to grow, learn, and develop.” Because we know that behind every great ship Award. Straight from the Pennsylvania PTA web- volunteer, there is a terrific support system, site, the purpose of the award is to “recognize her family offered their thoughts and pride. Her outstanding leadership in the PTA, service to husband, Paul, noted that he understands the children, or leadership in fields closely allied honor of this recognition because in a small way, with the PTA mission.” This year’s two worthy Leanne is helping to perpetuate the quality of recipients are retired Eisenhower secretary the USC school system. And daughter Megan, Kathy Robinson and 2010-11 PTSO president a high school sophomore, suggests (with a known bias!) that she “couldn’t imagine a more Leanne Adamo. Eisenhower prinicipal Mark Miller shared worthy recipient of (this) award” than her mom. some of his thoughts on Kathy Robinson. “How Fortunately for us, Leanne’s contributions will do you replace someone who has been the face likely continue, as her youngest son, Chris, will of Eisenhower for 33 years? You don’t even try enter eighth grade in the fall. Kathy Robinson and Leanne Adamo have when the person you are talking about is Kathy both made extraordinary contributions to the Robinson.” With mixed emotions, Kathy retired as Upper St. Clair community and to the students, of the first of this year. She spent her entire families, staff, and parents of the USC School 33-year USC career at Eisenhower. During District. From the entire Upper St. Clair PTA this time, undoubtedly, Kathy made a positive and PTSO community, we offer our thanks and difference for many students, moms, dads, and well wishes. How can we measure your volunteer staff members. The head secretary job of an elementary contributions to your school’s PTA or PTSO? school is much more demanding than many Although summer is soon upon us, please know. Kathy navigated those demands with consider giving some of your “daylights” (and grace, tact, beauty, and a calming influence that “midnights”) to the PTA/PTSO in the future. In set her apart. She will forever be remembered return, you’ll receive some rewarding moments as someone who offered a warm personality in your parenting career. n and cheerful smile to anyone who entered the doors of Eisenhower. “Schools should be welcoming and families should feel like they belong when they walk in,” she said. Countless parents and students would agree that Mrs. Kathy Robinson will be missed. If we measure her career in students’ lives she touched, conservatively, that number tops 10,000. She deserves many, many, daylights, sunsets, midnights, and cups of coffee in her retirement! Leanne Adamo was not only PTA president at Streams— essentially a three-year commitment—but was the 2010Left to right are Superintendent of Schools Dr. Patrick O’Toole, 11 president of USC High School award recipient Kathy Robinson, award recipient Leanne Adamo, PTSO. She’s been described as and outgoing PTA Council president Stacie de la Parra Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Did SD Did

You Know? Did You Mock Trial Know? Congratulations to the Mock Trial team for You Know? Did You Know? making it to the quarter-finals. Captains were Did You Know? Did You Marissa Bowman and Maya Know? Chandrasekaran; and team members were Mahen Seneviratne, Did You Know? Did You Know? Rachel Szucs, Mohini Walavalkar, Alex Garwig, Did You Know? Did You Know? Lizzy Faeth, Alex Bowman, Ryan Miller, and Sean Ketchel. The competition was sponsored by the Did You Know? Did You Know? Allegheny County Bar Association and the Did You Know? Did You Know? Pennsylvania Bar Association. USC’ s advising attorney was Valerie Faeth from Cohen and Grigsby. Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? All-State Chorus Did You Know? DidBased You Know? on blind auditions held at Region State Chorus at Pine-Richland High School Did You Know? Did You Know? on February 24, Dan Ryave, Mike Boyas, and Did You Know? Did Know? Ellie BlakeYou were selected to participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association AllDid You Know? Did You Know? State Chorus Festival in Hershey, April 13-16. Did You Know? Did You Know? Congratulations! Did You Know? Did You Know? Shakespeare Contest Twenty-three Boyce Middle School students Did You Know? Did You Know? competed in this year’s Shakespeare Monologue Did You Know? Did You Know? and Scene Contest. Of the 23 students who competed in the contest, three were invited back to the Did You Know? Did You Know? Finalists’ Showcase: Natalie Urban, Allie Ryave, Did You Know? Did You and Know? Christine Mellick performDid You Know? Did You ingKnow? Mackenzie McGuire a scene from Garners Silver Did You Know? Did You Know? Macbeth as the With a WPIAL gold witches. AddiDid You Know? Did You tionally, Know? medal in hand, USCHS seven junior Mackenzie Did You Know? Did You Know? Boyce students McGuire headed to the honored Did You Know? Did You were Know? PIAA wrestling match with the receipt in Hershey and came Did You Know? Did You Know? of an honorable away with a state silver Jeri Did You Know? Did You mention: Know? medal. With a regular Stoller, Aaron season record of 31-2, Did You Know? Did You Fultineer, Know? Carly Mackenzie wrestled at DeCock, Arushi Kewalramani, C.J. Stott, James Boston, and Did You Know? ShebDid You Know? 119 pounds. Rosati. High school student Macy Miller also received Congratulations Did You Know? an honorable Did You mention for her performance. Know? Mackenzie! Did You Know? Did You Know? Knowledge Masters Open Did You Know? Did You Know? The fifth grade team at Boyce Middle School placed 15 in the Girls of Steel World (out of 205 teams) in the Knowledge Master Open, also Did You Know? Did You Know? USC junior Maya Chandrasekaran was placing second in Pennsylvania, one point behind the first place part of Pittsburgh’s “Girls of Steel” team, Did You Know? Did You Know? team. The students competed against teams in every state in the comprising young women from several area nation, Indonesia, Did You Know? Did You Know? schools interested in science. The team, Hong Kong, and mentored byYou members of CarnegieKnow? Mellon’s Did Did You U n i t e d Know? Arab robotics program, participated in the For Emirates, electroniDid You Know? Did You Know? Inspiration and Recognition of Science cally answering and Technology (FIRST) robotics tournaDid You Know? Did You Know? questions on a wide ment held at the University of Pittsburgh’s r a n g e o f t opics Did You Know? Did You Know? Petersen Events Center. The girls designed including world hisand built solutions to engineeringKnow? challengDid You Did You tory, math, Know? physical es, qualifying for the regional tournament science, fine arts, Did You Know? Did You Know? in Washington, D.C. and for the national literature, biology, tournament You in St. Louis. Did Know? Did You Know? government, and current events. Did You Know? Did You Know? USC Hockey Wins PIHL State Cup The USCHS varsity hockey team, under the direction of Coach Larry Marks, won the Class AAA PA Interscholastic Hockey League Cup, with a 4-3 win over Flyers Cup opponent LaSalle in West Chester, Pennsylvania, on March 26. The goal-winning score in overtime came from CJ Murray. To compete for the state title, USC defeated Canon-McMillan 4-3 in the final round of the PIHL Class AAA Penguins Cup earlier in the month at the Consol Energy Center. The overtime score came from sophomore Michael Sweeney. The other three goals in this semi-final playoff Seniors on this year’s team, left to right, are Ben game came from seniors Herman, Parker Phillips, CJ Murray, Justin Selep, CJ Murray, Justin Selep, Michael Segerdahl, and George Asrian and Michael Segerdahl. “This USC team was very dedicated and close knit all season long,” said Coach Marks. “The team is explosive on the ice and is fun to watch. I, along with all involved with the team, am extremely proud of these boys and all of their accomplishments this year.” This is the Panther’s first Class AAA PA Cup title since 1987. USC is proud of its high school hockey team!

Natalie Urban, Christin Mellicke, and Allie Ryave

KMO participants

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Summer 2011

Did Super You Know? Did You Know? SD Strings Andrew Khor, concertmaster of the Did You Know? Did YouPJAS Know? Fort Couch orchestra and eighth grade The following USCHS students particiDid Know? Did You Know? violinist, andYou Nolan Ardolino, principal pated in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy Violin II of the USCHS orchestraKnow? and Did You Did You Know? of Sciences (PJAS) competition at Keystone ninth grade violinist, participated in Oaks High School this past February. The Did You Did You Know? the Mark Wood workshop and Know? festistudents were sponsored by Dr. Colin val held thisYou past January at Chartiers Did Know? Did Syme, You Know? high school science teacher. Placing Valley High School. first were Vijay Viswanathan, Vicky Li, and Did You Did You Know? Mark Wood, the inventor of theKnow? electric string instruments VIPER and Brinda Doshi; placing second were Brendan COBRA, is a You famous rock violinist Know? and past performer in the Tran-Siberian Did Did You Know? Campbell, Qinglan Huang, Eva Roy, Suraj Orchestra. In spite of being snowed-out of school on January 21, Nolan Sundar, and Matthew Vernacchia; and placDid You Know? Did You Know? performed several solos on his VIPER during the January 21 concert. ing third was Vinay Viswanathan. Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Pennsylvania Math League The Math League is a national organization dedicated to “building student interest and conDid YoungYou Know? Did You Know? Poets fidence in mathematics through solving worthwhile problems.” In February, 80 Boyce Middle The following sixth-grade Did You Know? Did You Know? School students participated in the Pennsylvania Mathematics League (PML) competition for Boyce students have been selected students studying sixth grade math curriculum. The test consisted of 35 non-routine word Did You Did You Know? to have their poems published in Know? problems that had to be solved within a 30-minute time limit. Boyce is proud to announce the Creative Communication’s A CelDid You Know? Did You Know? winners: First place–Kevin Chen, second place–Yang Zhang, third place–Sahil Doshi and CJ ebration of Young Poets, Fall 2010 Stott, fourth place–Aditi Chattopadyay, Malcolm Miller, and Abigail Shoemaker, and fifth place– Did Did You Know? edition: PaulYou Abrams, Marina Know? Matthew White. Honorable mention, in alphabetical order, Brajovic, Aditi Chattopadhyay, Did You Know? Did You Know? are Tyler Besselman, Ty l e r C l a r k , C a l l i e C a rd , Aaron Fultineer, Did Did You Know? M a c k e n z i e You D a m o n , A b b y Know? Arushi Kewalramani, Doohan, Océanne Fry, Aaron Did You Know? Did You Know? Wy a t t K e a t i n g , F u l t i n e e r, A i d a n G ro g a n , Siddarth Konduru, Did You Did You Know? Macey Kaplan, Tyler Lamb, Know? Ian Ong, Darius Murphy Miller, Allie Ryave, Eva Did You Know? Did You Know? R a d f a r, A n d re w Schenker, Abigail Shoemaker, Rocks, Allie Ryave, Did You Did You Know? C.J. Stott, Breighan Szajnecki, Know? Thomas Vissman, Natalie Urban, Joey Violi, Vicki Did You Know? Did You Know? and Vicki Wang. Wang, Shelby Zahren, and Did Know? Did You Know? Claire Zalla. You Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Together We Can… Did USCSD Number One, Again! Did You Know? You Know? Congratulations to the Upper St. Clair School District held onto its top Did You Know? Did Know? following students whose spot as theYou state’s best performing school district for “Together We Can…” the sixth year in a row! A Pittsburgh Business Times Did You Know? Did You Know? Reflections entries won analysis of Pennsylvania System of School Assessment Did You Know? Did You at the Region 3 level Exam results ranked Upper St. Know? Clair School District (Allegheny County). These number one of the 500 school districts across the state Did You Know? Did You Know? entries joined the entries and first among the 105 in western Pennsylvania. Did You Know? Did You from 15 other regions State-wide, coming in secondKnow? and third were two across the state and comeastern Pennsylvania school districts from Chester Did Know? Did You Know? Region You 3 Winners peted at the Pennsylvania County. Of the 105 districts locally, North Allegheny winners are Michael DidFirst place You Know? Did You Know? state level. Continued conremained in the number two spot while Mt. Lebanon Haverlack, Arushi Kenalramani, Joe gratulations are extended retained the ranking of third. Rounding out the top Did You Know? Did You Know? Lapham, and Michael Sweterlitsch; to three USC students seven were Hampton, Peters Township, Fox Chapel, second place winner is Grace Getner; Did You Know? Know? whose entries went on Did to and South You Fayette. and third place winners are Yasaswi place at the state level. Did Upper You St. Clair School District superintendent Did You Know? Duvvuru and Alexis Wehrle Know? USC is proud of all Patrick O’Toole said that “the District’s success comes Did You Know? You Know? our creative artists and Did is down to expectations and putting kids first.” He Pennsylvania State Winners pleased to announce next includes students, staff, and the community in the necDidSecondYou Know? Did You Know? place winners are Michael year’s Reflections theme: essary mix to meet such expectations and stated that HaverlackYou (photography), Arushi Did Know? Did You Know? “Diversity is...” the community helps to lead the way by “placing value Kenalramani (dance), and Michael and supporting learning in school and at home.” Did You Did You Know? Sweterlitsch (photography) Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Andrew Nolan (left) performs with Mark Wood

PML winners Tyler Besselman and CJ Stott

PML winners, left to right, are Yang Zhang, Malcolm Miller, Aditi Chattopadhyay, Sahil Doshi, Matthew White, and Kevin Chen

Michael Sweterlitsch’s Pennsylvania state award-winning photo: “Competing as One.”

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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 • High School Awards and Records • • WPIAL or PIAA Champion • Post Season Recognition • • National Recognition • Multiple Sport Consideration • • Post Graduate Recognition • • Collegiate Accomplishments • • Professional Accomplishments • • Leadership Accomplishments •  • Other Hall of Fame Honors • Media Recognition • • Excellent Citizenship •

Academics • Academic Honors • National Merit Recognition • • National Honor Society • Valedictorian •  • Student of the Year • Scholarship Awards • • School Service and/or Leadership •  • Post Graduate Recognition • Collegiate Recognition • • Publication of Work • Professional Accomplishments • • Contributions to Society • Excellent Citizenship •

2011 Halls of Fame Inductee Nomination To nominate a candidate for the 2011 Upper St. Clair High School’s Halls of Fame, use the nomination form found on the Upper St. Clair School District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on the “Information” tab, and then click on “Halls of Fame.” Submit your name, address, and phone number, along with your completed nomination via email to: Linda Moses at lmoses@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For more information, contact Lou Angelo at 412-833-1600, ext. 2272. All Nominations Due May 31, 2011. Nomination forms can also be mailed to: Linda Moses Assistant 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 2011

Support Our 2011 High School Varsity Football Team Cheer on our Panthers in the Great Southern Conference!

Kick-offs Fridays—7:30 p.m. at Panther Stadium September 2 USC takes on Shaler

September 30 Halls of Fame/Homecoming USC battles Baldwin

September 9 Youth Night

USC faces Norwin

October 14

USC confronts Canon McMillan

October 28 Senior Recognition Night

(band, cheerleader, football) USC challenges Mt. Lebanon For additional information regarding the schedule, call USCHS Athletic Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2260 or 2261.

USC Summer School Program 2011 Application forms available at school buildings beginning May 3. 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 8–12 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 27–July 15 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 3, 4) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 1, 2) Fee: $125 $10 discount if registered by May 25. 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. Independent practice will also be a part of this lab. Location: Streams Elementary School Dates: June 27–July 15 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 1, 2) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 3, 4) Fee: $125 $10 discount if registered by May 25. If taking both Reading and Math Lab, fee is $235 per child. Links to Learning through Mathematics (Grades 5-8) This program is for middle school students who need to improve their skills in mathematics. Instruction will focus on the state standards and concentrate on the needs of each student. Location: USCHS Dates: June 27–July 15 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 7, 8) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 5, 6) Fee: $125 Links to Learning through Reading (Grades 5-8) This program is for middle school students who need to improve their skills in reading. Instruction will focus on the state standards and concentrate on the needs of each student. Location: USCHS Dates: June 27–July 15 (no class July 4) Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. (exiting grades 5, 6) 10:15-11:45 a.m. (exiting grades 7, 8) Fee: $125

Online High School English and Math (Grades 9-12) Online classes in English and mathematics will be held for students who need to repeat course work*. Enrollment will be through the Guidance Office at USC High School. Students must discuss their specific needs with the Guidance Department to schedule class time. Location: Online/USCHS as needed Dates: June 21–July 30 Fee: $150 per semester (3 weeks) $275 for full year (6 weeks) *Teachers will be available on-site for assistance with the course work. Wellness Education (Grades 10-12)* Level: Grades 11, 12 (30-hour session) Location: USCHS Large Gym Dates: June 20–29 (excludes weekend) Hours: 7:30-11:30 a.m. (make-up dates are June 30, July 1) Fee: $150 Level: Location: Dates: Hours: Fee:

Grade 10/Option A (30-hour session, one semester) USCHS Large Gym July 5–14 (excludes weekend) 7:30-11:30 a.m. (make-up date is July 15) $150

Level: Location: Dates: Hours: Fee:

Grade 10/Option B (60-hour session, two semesters) USCHS Large Gym July 5–26 (excludes weekends) 7:30-11:30 a.m. (make-up dates are July 27-29) $275

~ Registration Information ~ • Registration for classes will begin the first week of May. See applications for registration deadline dates. Class size is limited. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Early registration discounts are available for certain elementary level classes. • Classes are subject to cancellation based on enrollment. • Applications for high school classes are available at the USCHS Guidance Office. Elementary and middle school class registration forms are available in all main offices and at the School District’s Central Office. • Student transportation to 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 the Upper St. Clair Schools will be accepted based on availability of space. • Make checks payable to Upper St. Clair School District. Summer 2011

cell:

www.sandygoldstein.com sandy@sandygoldstein.com

* Wellness Education Make-Up Session Dates: July 27–29 This time is available for all students grades 10-12 who may have missed a wellness education class during the summer session.

USC Kennywood Day Monday, June 20 Rides open at 11 a.m. le e is availab Bus servic wer Elementary o h en is from E

Fun Day Pass

$22

Ticket sales on Friday, May 13 at the following school buildings at the designated times:

High School...........................................7:00 a.m. Eisenhower.............................................8:15 a.m. Fort Couch.............................................9:00 a.m. Baker......................................................9:45 a.m. Boyce.....................................................9:45 a.m. Streams................................................10:30 a.m. St. Louise de Marillac.......................... 12:15 p.m. Final ticket sales date to be announced for sales at Municipal Building Lobby.......... 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Payment by cash or money orders only. Watch for mailings or contact the School District Central Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2202. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Around the Township

Saying “hello” to spring were many who enjoyed and supported the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair’s Girls’ Night Out Spring Fling.

TODAY Spotlights the C ommunity Foundation

Spyro Gyra

Live in concert, USC residents enjoyed the sounds of Spyro Gyra at the USCHS Theatre. 74

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Gilfillan Farm Open House – Orr Road Sponsored by the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair

Saturday, May 21, 2011 – USC Community Day 12 - 3 PM Take a step back into Western Pennsylvania farm life in the late 1800s

Farm Activities

❖ Horse drawn wagon ride ❖ Farm animal petting zoo ❖ Sheep shearing and cow milking demonstrations ❖ Childrens’ crafts ❖ Old time photographs ❖ Pet and feed the cattle ❖ Narrated tours of the Gilfillan house ❖ Bee keeping demonstration

Help preserve USC history with a suggested donation of $5

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Town Hall South 2011-12 Lecture Series Line Up T h e To w n H a l l S o u t h

lecture series is pleased to present its 2011-12 line up of speakers. The series explores topics that include politics, law and the Supreme Court; regenerative medicine; energy issues; a syndicated columnist; and a world-traveling journalist. THS’s 43rd season offers speakers chosen for their dynamic styles, relevant topics, and wide reaching appeal. The series kicks off on October 4 with CNN senior analyst and New Yorker writer, Jeffrey Toobin. Mr. Toobin is thought to be one of the country’s most esteemed experts on politics, media, and the law. His best selling book, The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court, delves into the historical, political, and personal inner working of the Supreme Court and its justices. This Harvard graduate has been covering legal affairs for the New Yorker since 1993 and as a legal analyst for the CNN News Group since 2002. November 1 brings Dr. Alan J. Russell, a pioneer in regenerative medicine—the science of regenerating damaged or diseased human tissue. Rolling Stone magazine has named

Jeffrey Toobin

Dr. Allen J. Russel

practical, understandable ideas on the entire spectrum of energy, from green to coal to gas, and unexpected solutions. He is the author of Why We Hate the Oil Companies: Straight Talk from an Energy Insider. Seven days a week, letter after letter, Amy Dickenson applies an objective eye to readers’ problems large and small in “Ask Amy: Advice to the real world.” The successor to the legendary Ann Landers at the Chicago Tribune will join us on February 7, 2012 to give insight into how she uses her personal experience and talents as a journalist to answer each question with the care and attention she would devote to her closest friends. Prior to joining the Chicago Tribune, Dickenson wrote for Time magazine, worked as a producer for NBC News, was regularly featured on NPR’S All Things Considered, and freelanced for the Washington Post, and Esquire and O magazines. Her best-selling memoir, The Mighty Queens of Freeville: A Mother, a Daughter, and the People Who Raised Them, was released in February 2009. Scott Simon is one of America’s most admired writers and broadcasters. He has reported from all 50 states, five continents, and ten wars, from El Salvador and Sarajevo to Afghanistan and Iraq. He hosts NPR’s Weekend Edition with Scott Simon, which has

John Hofmeister

Dr. Russell one of the 100 People Who Are Changing America. The founding director of the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Russell leads an ambitious biomedicine program that explores tissue engineering, stem cell research, biosurgery, and artificial and biohybrid organs. Dr. Russell is a professor of surgery, with secondary appointments in the departments of chemical engineering, bioengineering, and rehabilitation sciences and technology. Upon retirement as president of Shell Oil Company in 2008, John Hofmeister founded and heads the nonprofit Citizens for Affordable Energy, which promotes sound energy security solutions for the nation, including a range of affordable energy alternatives, efficiency improvements, sustainable environmental policies, and public education on energy issues. Hofmeister has also held executive leadership positions in General Electric, Nortel, and Allied Signal, and his presentations offer rare insight into how the industry works. On December 6, he will offer

Amy Dickenson

Scott Simon

been called “the most literate, witty, moving, and just plain interesting news show on any dial” by the Washington Post. Simon has won every major award in broadcasting, including the Peabody, the Emmy, the Columbia-DuPont, the Ohio State Award, The Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, and the Sidney Hillman Award. His books include his personal memoir, Home and Away, Windy City, and Baby, We Were Meant for Each Other, his latest book about the joys of adoption. This multi-faceted journalist will round out the season on March 6, 2012. The Town Hall South Series’ mission is to provide quality lectures and philanthropic gifts to the community. All lectures are held at the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre on the first Tuesday of October, November, December, February, and March. Tickets are available by series subscription for $125 and can be purchased by visiting Town Hall South’s website at www.townhallsouth.org. Post-lecture luncheons are available by reservation for subscribers at St. Clair Country Club and include a question and answer session with the guest lecturer. n

For further information and a subscription form for Town Hall South, visit www.townhallsouth.org or look for a pamphlet at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. 76

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Celebrate YOU! Upper St. Clair High School graduate, Class of 2000, Ashlee McKibben and her husband, Michael Lentini, wed this past October at St. Thomas More church, followed by a reception at Valley B ro o k C o u n t r y Club. After spending a few years working in the Washington, D.C. area, they are establishing roots in USC this summer.

On December 26, 2010, two of Janice Hampton’s grandchildren, Carter Druga and Ian Macdonald, were baptized at St. Louise de Marillac Church. Pictured at the joyous event are Jackson Druga, Teresa (Hampton) Druga (USCHS Class of 1993), Janice Hampton, Carter Druga, Dr. Jeanne (Hampton) Macdonald (USCHS Class of 1991), Ian Macdonald, and Deanna Hampton (USCHS Class of 1988).

USC Resident Publishes First Novel While UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is always pleased to inform its readers about the residents of Upper St. Clair, we’re especially excited to share some news about one of our publication’s sales associates, Alison O’Neill Hess. Alison recently published her first book, The Prophecy, the first of four books in her young adult fantasy series Between Souls. Geared toward middle school readers through adults, The Prophecy is a “story of Lucie, a high school sophomore who has to figure out how she will use the ancient knowledge her family has protected for generations to fulfill the Prophecy and save the world from Darkness.” The first review on Amazon called The Prophecy “…a fun, and Alison Hess exciting read that left me wanting more.” The reviewer was of the opinion that young Twilight readers would especially enjoy Hess’ book. Like many moms in USC Township, Alison put her career on hold after she and her husband, Chris, had their children, son, CJ, and daughter, Sara. But she had been interested in writing something for publication for a long time, and last April, Alison entered Script Frenzy, an online screenwriting challenge where participants attempt to write a script of at least 100 pages in one month. Once the screenplay was done, Hess had some high school students with experience reading scripts critique it for her, and submitted it to three screenplay contests. But Alison wasn’t done with The Prophecy. In November, Alison participated in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), an online challenge where participants attempt to write a 50,000 word novel between November 1 and November 30. After finishing her novel, the next step was publishing. Alison said that when she was in college, she thought if she wrote a novel she would be looking for an agent to get her book successfully published. But with technology, things have changed very quickly in publishing, especially since e-readers, including the Nook and Kindle, have grown in popularity. Looking to leaders in the field of publishing e-books, like Amanda Hocking, Alison released The Prophecy in February as an eBook at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and Smashwords.com, with the paperback version published in March. Alison already has plans for the release of the next three books in the Between Souls series, which is all about Lucie’s adventures, with the target release of The Chapel in April or May, The Oracle in early fall, and Between Souls by late December. n To learn more about Alison’s writing and latest publishing news, visit her website at www.betweensouls.com or via Twitter at twitter.com/Alison_Hess. The Prophecy is available at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and Smashwords.com. Summer 2011

Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS

Let my experience work for you.

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dhorvath@howardhanna.com

Spiritual Healing Expected Here for all mankind and you!

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The C&RC provided a great venue for the Youth Steering Committee’s “USC Cares for Kids” Spring Fling for fifth through eighth graders.

Making it fun to support a worthy cause, people throughout the South Hills gathered to raise funds for the Denis Theater.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Coldwell Banker to Open New Office in USC segment of the South Hills market selling opportunities for our customers, and its outstanding communities. more activity for our agents, and more Equipped with the latest technol- chances for us to be part of the community. ogy to assist buyers and sellers, Coldwell Banker has long been a market and a full service approach to the leader in this area and we know that this business so that customers are as- new location is taking the next step toward sisted throughout their complete an even better real estate experience for our real estate transaction, the new of- buyers, sellers and agents,” said Hackett. Not only will the new office offer servicfice is certain to rival the company’s busiest offices throughout Western es to its customers as never before, it also Pennsylvania and be a force in the can boast of being in a fabulous location on Rendition provided by Desmone & Associates Architects real estate industry throughout the Washington Road, in the same retail center that will house the new Trader Joe’s. South Allegheny County suburbs. Having helped thousands of buy“There’s no doubt that we will be neigh“We are excited to bring this kind of ers and sellers in the South Hills suburbs make their move over the years, Coldwell office to South Hills residents,” said George bors with some outstanding businesses in Banker Real Estate Services is now making Hackett, president of Coldwell Banker Real the area, and we’re especially excited about a move of its own to further strengthen Estate Services in Pittsburgh. “We know that,” Hackett said. “We are definitely in its position in the real estate business. from experience in other areas that the good company and I think the entire surColdwell Banker will be combining its development of such larger, full service rounding business community will benefit Route 19 South/Galleria office with its real estate offices means more buying and from that.” n South Hills/Upper St. Clair office to form a larger real estate office that will be lo- Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services was established in Pittsburgh in 1984 and operates cated in the retail center of The Shops on 14 offices with more than 900 sales associates serving the communities of Allegheny, Butler, Beaver, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services, Washington at 1630 Washington Road. pittsburghmoves.com, is part of NRT LLC, the nation’s largest residential real estate brokerage The new location will be appropriately company. NRT, a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, operates Realogy’s company-owned real named Coldwell Banker South Hills, since estate brokerage offices. its more than 150 experienced real estate For more information about the new office, call either 412-833-5404 or 412-344-0500, or visit sales professionals will serve a broad Coldwell Banker online at www.pittsburghmoves.com.

Local Tire Company Turns 70! Calabro Tire & Auto Service has served the South Hills area since 1941. This year marks the company’s 70th anniversary. Started by Peter Calabro as a small auto and truck tire service when recapping was a featured service, the business has grown and recently expanded to a nine-bay tire and automotive full service facility. In 1941, Peter was a high school senior working for a tire service company located in Bridgeville. When the business moved to a larger location, Peter stayed to start his own tire business. In the 1940s rubber was an essential commodity for retread tires needed for the Armed Forces. As such,

Calabro Tire & Auto Service, in USC

Peter was deferred from serving in WWII. However, in 1943, he entrusted the business to his family and enlisted because he wanted to serve his country. He was assigned as a crewman on a B-17 Flying Fortress. While flying over Budapest, Hungry, his plane was shot down and Peter parachuted into German territory. Because Peter’s where abouts were unknown, he was declared missing in action. His family received two telegrams, first declaring him dead, then a prisoner of war. After nine months as a prisoner of war, he was liberated by General Patton’s troops in 1945. Peter returned home to a changing tire market. Recapping tires was a fading business and the new radial tires were the tire of choice. A declining tire market moved the business into the auto repair market, and in 1967 Calabro Tire expanded and moved to its current location in Upper St. Clair. Two sons, Perr y and Jack Calabro, joined the business in the early 70s and in 1994, daughter, Summer 2011

Janine, joined the team. Peter passed away in 2007, but the family business continues to grow with grandsons Mike and Bryan working summer months. With 14 employees, including four mechanics, four tire changers, a service manager, and sales staff, Calabro Tire & Auto Service has serviced customers for three generations. State-of-the-art equipment is used to meet the demands of a tire market that features custom wheels and 20" and larger tires. Computers dominate the diagnosis of auto repairs, which now mandate that technicians know more than just how to turn a wrench. It has been challenging over the years, adapting and changing to the auto and tire market. With the growth of the hybrid car and electronic sensors inside tire wheels, the need for sophisticated computer equipment has further refined the technical side of the industry. And while the face of the tire business is certainly not the business that Peter Calabro started in 1941, Calabro Tire & Auto Service remains happy to serve you! n See ad on page 67.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Prof iles

on People with a USC Connection

Know of a resident to profile?

Send information to: Editor,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday @ uscsd.k12.pa.us

John Altvater was promoted from sales manager to eastern regional manager of QuestMark, a division of CentiMark Corporation. A 1992 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, he has been employed by CentiMark Corporation/QuestMark Flooring for 17 years. CentiMark is North America’s largest commercial roofing and flooring contractor with headquarters at Southpointe in nearby Canonsburg. CentiMark was founded by Upper St. Clair resident Edward B. Dunlap, Chairman and CEO. John and his wife, Lori, have two sons, Johnny, 12, and Joey, 7, and live on Rio Circle.

Two Upper St. Clair residents, Rajiv R. Varma, MD as president-elect and Amelia A. Paré, MD as vice president, have been elected to the board of the Allegheny County Medical Society for 2011. Dr. Varma, a pediatric neurologist certified in pediatrics and neurology with special qualifications in child neurology, is a clinical director of the pediatric neurology division of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. He is a member of many professional and scientific societies, including the American Academy of Neurology and the Child Neurology Society. In addition, Dr. Varma is involved with the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation. Dr. Varma earned his medical degree from Prince of Wales Medical College in Patna, India, in 1974, served as senior house officer in Royal Gwent Hospital, England, and then completed his pediatrics residency at the Hurley Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Michigan. In 1980, he moved to Pittsburgh as a pediatric neurology fellow at UPMC and Children’s Hospital and prior to joining Children’s, he was chief of the child neurology division and vice-chairman of pediatrics at Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh. Dr. Varma and his wife, Dr. Swarna Varma, have three children. Dr. Paré, a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is in private practice and affiliated with Jefferson Medical Center, Washington Hospital, St. Clair Memorial Hospital, and UPMC. Dr. Paré earned her bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Harvard University and studied at Oxford University in England. She received her medical degree from Hahnemann University School of Medicine in 1992. She trained in general surgery at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center, University Hospital of Columbia University College of Physicians in New York City, where she served as chief resident of general surgery. She completed specialized training in aesthetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery at UCLA, where she also served as chief resident. She has worked with doctors missions in Honduras. Dr. Paré and her husband, Kyung Park, MD, have one son.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

Upper St. Clair resident Maria Gaygan recently opened Elixir Hair Artistry and Design at 520 Washington Road, Suite 101 on the street level of the Lebanon House Condominiums across from the Mt. Lebanon Public Safety Center. Combining 35 years of experience and expertise as a cosmetology instructor, salon owner, and hairdesigner, she recently traveled to New York City for advanced classes and up-to-the-minute looks in haircuts, color, highlights, and make-up design. To find out more, visit www.elixirhairartistry.com or call 412-531-1440.

USC resident Dr. Erik Happ spent ten days this past January on a medical mission to Vietnam, donating his time and money to help vision-impaired people with few medical options restore their sight and improve their quality of life. While in Vietnam, Dr. Happ, an ophthalmologist at Allegheny General Hospital, performed reconstructive surgery, repaired eyelid lacerations and orbital trauma, removed tumors, removed drooping eyelid skin that blocked vision, unblocked tear ducts, and repaired previous surgeries.

Dining Guide Honored to be Your Neighborhood Café for 19 Years

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

• Best Mediterranean ~ 2011, “Where the Locals Eat: The Best 100 Restaurants in America’s Top 50 Cities” a survey of the readers of Bon Appétit and Gournet Magazine. • “City’s Best”, AOL City Guide Reader’s Vote • First Place, Post-Gazette Reader’s Poll • First Place, Tribune-Review Reader’s Survey • First Place, South Hills Record Reader’s Vote • First Place, City Paper’s Reader’s Poll 412-563-3466

30% off any dinner or lunch entree with purchase of another dinner or lunch entree of equal or greater value. Expires: June 30, 2011

USC Mag.

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Amel’s Restaurant, McNeilly Road

A UNIQUE FAMILY PIZZARIA Eat In • Deck Seating • Carry Out

Catering • Gift Certificates • Private Parties

412-854-7400

Business Delivery Monday - Saturday • 11a.m.-2p.m. Monday-Thursday 11a.m.-9p.m. Friday-Saturday 11a.m.-10p.m. Sunday Closed 28 Donati Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241

Summer 2011

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

History of the 1830 Log House As adapted from the leaflet prepared by the 1830 Log House and Historic Landmark Association The Gilfillan Heritage Alexander Gilfillan came to the area of western Pennsylvania that is now Upper St. Clair, during the late 1760s. He built a log cabin on land where the present St. Clair Country Club now stands. Over the next 30 years, Alexander acquired and established a large farm of 413 acres called “Cato.” In 1857, the Gilfillan family built their permanent home, a handsome red brick building and outbuildings located one-quarter mile north of the Log House along Route 19, across from the Upper St. Clair Fire Station. This Log House, built around 1830 by Alexander’s son and grandson on the Gilfillan property, is the only remaining house out of four or five log houses built by the Gilfillans to house tenant farmers who worked on their farm. The log houses were built from abundant local timber and stones. The log houses were designed to be permanent residences, having stone foundations, hewn logs that were squared and notched, floor boards, chinking between the logs, glass windows, stone fireplaces, chimneys, and usually second stories. The log house, a more sophisticated structure than a one-story, less permanent log cabin, stands on its original site and has been restored to its original size and appearance. History of Upper St. Clair At the time the Log House was built, the towns of Pittsburgh to the north and Washington, Pennsylvania, to the south were rapidly growing population centers. Pittsburgh was becoming a thriving industrial town, while Washington was the center of a major farming and agricultural area. The road that connected the two communities was called the WashingtonPittsburgh Stage Road, which is roughly our present Route 19. The halfway point between these two Many enjoyed the activities at the USC Log busy towns was approxiHouse during Community Day 2010 mately the intersection 82

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2011

of the Stage Road A picture of the Log House was used for the first cover and McLaughlin of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY back in 1994. Shown here is the tenth anniversary cover, which also showcased Run near the Log the Log House. House. Consequently, most of the farmers, peddlers, and other travelers making the two-day trip from one town to the other would stop for rest, repairs, and refreshment at this little crossroads village, which was unofficially called “Sodom,” but later in the 1800s changed to Clifton. Many services were offered to the travelers, including those of a tinsmith, shoemaker, tanner, wagon maker, and blacksmith. There was also a post office, a general store, an inn, and a sawmill. The entire township area was called St. Clair, named for General Arthur St. Clair, a Revolutionary War soldier. The northern border of St. Clair was the Monongahela River across from the city of Pittsburgh. On the east it bordered Streets Run, to the south Washington County, and the western border was Chartiers Creek. The entire area of St. Clair was very large, making it a hardship for residents in the southern part of the township to travel the great distance to the north to vote. In 1839, the area was divided into two parts called Upper St. Clair and Lower St. Clair. Gradually, the total area of both became divided into several communities, including Scott, Mt. Lebanon, Baldwin, South Park, Bethel Park, Bridgeville, Dormont, Greentree, Carnegie, Castle Shannon, Beechview, Brookline, Mt. Washington, and others. Upper St. Clair remained a farming community until the 1920 and 1930s. Owner of the Log House The Log House remained in the Gilfillan family until 1876. It was occupied by various tenants, one of them a wagon maker named J. Henry Poellot who rented the house from 1853 to 1859. In 1876 the house was sold to H. B. Laffery and in 1896 he sold it to John Ruffer. The first deed was recorded in 1899 when Mr. Ruffer sold the house to John Trimble, a blacksmith. His assistant, Mr. McNulty, lived there until 1901. It was sold to Samuel Deeds, a lamplighter and handy man for the new residential area of Brookside Farms developed in 1913. Brookside Farms was Upper St. Clair farming community’s first residential subdivision. The house had several more owners, including Martha Gilbert in 1916 and Annie Biddle Keeble from 1917 to 1923. That year,

it was sold to James E. Fulton, and by then the appearance of the Log House had changed dramatically with the addition of a front porch, a large addition on the back and left side, clapboard siding, and interior changes that completely covered the log structure. The house was charming and used by the Fulton family for many years as their summer home “out in the country.” In 1939 the deed passed to the son, James Grove Fulton, who served as the United States Congressman from the 27th District of Pennsylvania from 1945 until 1971. Mr. Fulton, a well-known collector of antiques, art objects, and houses, lived in the house several years. He enjoyed entertaining many nationally known people and referred to the house as his “little gem.” Restoration A fire destroyed the frame additions and siding that surrounded the Log House in the mid 1960s, but the original log structure was saved. The building remained in disrepair from that time until 1976. By then ownership of the house had passed into the hands of the Upper St. Clair School District and then to the Township of Upper St. Clair. In 1975 a citizens’ group, the 1830 Log House Committee (now the 1830 Log House and Historic Landmark Association), was formed for the purpose of restoring the Log House. This dedicated group researched the history and restoration of the building, raised the necessary funds for the restoration, supervised the

building’s restoration, and provided much of the volunteer labor. Upper St. Clair Township supplied professional labor and many local businessmen provided materials at cost. While none of the furnishings are original to the house, they have been acquired from authoritative sources as representative of the early furnishings. The 1830 Log House of Upper St. Clair was placed on a National Register of Historic Places in December 1975. It is listed by James Van Trump and Arthur Ziegler, Jr. in their book, Landmark Architecture of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The Log House remains the property of Upper St. Clair Township, and the 1830 Log House and Historic Landmark Association acts as its curator, offering programs open to the public. It is toured by the Township’s second grade school classes in conjunction with their social studies program each spring and is open to the public each Community Day in May. The Log House is also available by special arrangement to groups for tours or small meetings. The Log House symbolizes an appreciation and interest in preservation of our heritage and provides a living museum through which our citizens and their children can glimpse pioneer life and become aware of some of the values of our early ancestors. n

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Members of the South Hills Chamber of Commerce are inviting all area chambers to join them at their Grand Networking Day at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 16 at a Wild Things baseball game in nearby Washington. At a pre-registration cost of $25, on tap is good food, a great baseball game, and the opportunity to network with people from at least five other area chambers. For more information, visit South Hills Chamber of Commerce website at www.shchamber.org or call 412-306-8090.This event has a limited reservation quota. Registration deadline is June 1 and will be on a first-come first-serve basis. An additional $10 charge will apply at the gate. n Summer 2011

keeps your car out of the weather, it keeps you dry with a covered walkway from the garage to the T platform. All for just 2 dollars a day. For more information call customer service at 412.442.2000 or visit PortAuthority.org.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Advertiser Index

Summer 2011

17 Years of

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The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair Advertiser

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A. Petrelli& Sons, Inc. ........................................................................... 55 Action Builders . .................................................................................... 53 Affordable Decks & Additions ............................................................... 53 Alliance Physical Therapy ..................................................................... 26 * Amel’s Restaurant .................................................................................. 81 * Angelo Associates, Inc. ......................................................................... 55 Arch Masonry, Inc. ................................................................................ 53 Baptist Homes Society .......................................................................... 63 Baxter Remodeling ................................................................................ 83 * Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company ................................................. 55 Brookside Lumber Company ................................................................. 51 C.W. Carlson Contractors, Inc. .............................................................. 56 * Café Georgio ......................................................................................... 81 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................. 67 Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior . ........................... 83 Chatham University .......................................................Front inside cover * Clark Renovations, Inc. ......................................................................... 51 * Coffey Contracting Company ................................................................ 54 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate . ...............Back outside cover * Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria .............................................. 3 * Coldwell Banker–USC, South Hills Offices ............................................ .2 Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey . ......................................................... 45 Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park...................... .65 Confluence Healing Community Acupunture & Herbs . ......................... 69 Country Meadows Retirement Communities .....................................…57 Crandall, Steven R., D.M.D..................................................................... 33 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. .......................................................................... 47 Davey Tree and Lawn Care .................................................................... 51 Davin Interiors, LLC ................................................................................ 9 * Deckmasters Technologies Incorporated ................Front cover, 16, 17, 56 Extended Day Services .......................................................................... 28 First Church of Christ, Scientist ............................................................ 77 * Friendship Village of South Hills . .................................Front inside cover G’s Window & Gutter Cleaning .............................................................. 54 Harmony Hospice . .................................................................................. 7 * Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. ............................................................................ 29 * Henderson Brothers, Inc. . ..................................................................... 22 Historical Society of Upper St. Clair ...................................................... 75 Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh .................................................... 69 Howard Hanna–Bob Ellison .................................................................. 67

Advertiser

Page

* Howard Hanna–Susan Highley . ............................................................ 37 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .............................................................. 77 Howard Hanna–Frankie J. Kunselman . ................................................. 49 JAB Jewelry Designs . ........................................................................... 49 Juniper Grill........................................................................................... 81 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein .................................... 73 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...................................................... 43 Kletz Contracting, Inc. ........................................................................... 55 Learning Express Toys .......................................................................... 27 Little Lake Theatre Company ................................................................... 7 Louis Anthony Jewelers .................................................Back inside cover * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ...................................................................... 42 McMahon Financial, LLC ...................................................................... 35 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy ..................................... 83 Orthodontics By Dr. Reitz & Dr. Troy . .................................................... 43 Paulin, Paulette, DMD ........................................................................... 29 Pediatric Alliance, P.C. .......................................................................... 42 Pediatric Dentistry South . ..................................................................... 43 Pepperoni’s............................................................................................. 81 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 43 * Pinebridge Commons Associates . ........................................................ 42 Pittsburgh Audiology ............................................................................ 37 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company . ........................................................ 26 Plastic Surgical Associates of Pittsburgh ................................................ 9 Port Authority Services . ........................................................................ 83 Premier Home Design Center ................................................................ 52 * Prudential Preferred Realty–Route 19 South ......................................... 19 R&R Masonry Restoration . ................................................................... 56 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors . .......................................................... 50 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 81 South Hills OBGYN, Drs. Rankin & Warner, MC, FACOG ...................... 24 * St. Clair Hospital ............................................................................... 1, 25 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ..................................................... 42 The Hand Center of Pittsburgh .............................................................. 45 The Little Gym of Pittsburgh . ................................................................ 27 The McClelland Law Group ................................................................... 75 * The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts ................................................. 27 Urgent Care Center, The Washington Hospital . ..................................... 23 * Wellington Real Estate–Rebecca Thomas Lutz & Patty Thomas ............ 21 West Penn Allegheny Health System ....................................................... 4

*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 33 issues.

Classifieds Needed: Energetic and loving Nanny/Au Pair for our two boys, ages 3-year old (attends pre-school) and 8-month old. Salary: $650/week. Contact: johnnysmith1001@live.com

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

Physics Tutor—High School and College David L. Wallach, Retired University Professor Phone: 724-941-9696

Upcoming guides for the Fall 2011 issue include Dining, Education, and Health & Wellness. 84

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Prime USC location on a beautiful wooded lot. Professionally painted in warm neutral tones. Hardwood floors professionally refinished on 1st and 2nd floors. Jim Walsh 412-833-5405

Quality home located in Deerfield Manor. Spacious rooms, private two tiered deck and tree lined, wooded backyard. Move-in ready condition! Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405

Cul-de-sac, central USC location. Updated kitchen with solid surface countertops, under mount sink, Jenn-Air down vent, and KitchenAid dishwasher. Jim Walsh 412-833-5405

Great location and move-in condition. Lovely home, centrally located in the heart of USC. #1 school district in PA for the past 6 years! Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405

Charming colonial with newer furnace, large eat-in kitchen that opens to spacious family room and log burning fireplace. Come see this home! Pat Paslowski 412-833-5405

Incredible home with updated kitchen and island opening to dining room with pella slider to a fabulous covered deck. Home also features heated pool! Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405

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Quality construction in Deerfield Manor! Spacious four bedroom, two full and two half bath colonial with lovely rooms, magnificent HW floors, and back porch. Carmela Viviano 412-344-0500

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Great room sizes! Living room fireplace, first floor family room, nice kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, exposed HW floors, and gameroom leading to level backyard! John Geisler 412-344-0500

One level living on a beautiful level lot. HW floors, equipped kitchen, new bath, 3 bedrooms, living room stone fireplace, gameroom, and covered rear porch! Nancy Heffernan 412-344-0500